Gran Alacant Advertiser July 2021 by Gran Alacant Advertiser

JULY

2021 ISSUE 198

YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY MAGAZINE SINCE 2005

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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 granalacantadvertiser@hotmail.com Update: Hi Lou and Ged, After my recent rant about dog mess in the area I was expecting hate mail from dog owners, glad to see some people agree with me. Not sure what signs and fines are going to achieve, there are signs prohibiting dogs and cyclists at every entrance to the Clot de Galvany and they are widely ignored. As for fines, who is going to enforce them?

As we mentioned last month, our GAWF group would be happy to meet with you at any time to discuss this issue further.

On a more positive note, a big thank you to the contractors who carried out the work to raise the level of the stretch of route 2 in the Clot that was under water for months after the 2019 downpours. Good job. No need for wellies in future. Regards Brian

The projects of education will not implicate the reduction of fascilities of the Sports Centre. In regards to astroturfing facilities, I have been unable to get hold of the Sports Councillor. I hope to have more information for you soon and will keep you posted as soon as I know more.

Q: Sports Centre Hola Oscar, We are happy to report this month that we have restarted our weekly Indoor Walking Football sessions at the Jose Antonio Aleman Valero Sports Centre.

Muchas gracias, John Fraser, Gran Alacant Walking Football Oscar Valenzuela’s Reply: Dear John, I am happy to hear you have restarted your indoor sessions again and thank you for your kind wishes.

LATEST NEWS FROM THE GA COUNCILLOR OSCAR VALENZUELA

There have been an ongoing issues with the We were sorry to hear about your injury, public lighting in the Chipre 72 area of Gran we hope you continue to recover and Alacant. The City Council agreed to take ownership of these lights in 2015, however, suffer no long term complications. the construction company continued to pay We wonder if you have managed to look for them (even though they no longer owned into the problem we mentioned last them) until February 2019. Then the lights did month regarding non-existing astro-turf not function for a few weeks until someone facilities in Gran Alacant. unknown made a direct coupling to restore them. The Council and Electricity Company This will become more of an issue for have only just discovered this issue and are residents and their children as we see the proposals for the second Primary School going through the necessary procedures to and also the Gran Alacant annex for the transfer the ownership to the Council and for IES in Santa Pola, which will be positioned the debt that has been generated over the last two years to be paid. As with all matters adjacent to the existing Sports Centre. of public spending, there are deadlines and There are so few facilities available for us legal issues to overcome but the Council older citizens we would not wish to lose are negotiating with the Electric Company what little we have. to restore the supply to these lights, on a provisional basis, as soon as possible.

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2nd June In response to recent suggestions and complaints, on the 2nd of June the sports department of Santa Pola issued a new statement regarding how to reserve the paddle courts in Gran Alacant. To book a court you only need to put the First and Last names of the people who will be playing. Upon arrival, these people will need to show the concierge documents to confirm their identity.

fumigation company has also detected the presence of outbreaks in different areas that are private property. I therefore ask for all residents to review this poster and ensure that you keep all areas that the mosquitos like to breed in clear. Many thanks.

12th June During May and June the Department of Cleaning, Parks and Gardens have continued to use heavy machinery to clear many of the overgrown areas around Gran Alacant and they have also cleared and cleaned the pavements, curbs and public garden areas. 14th June Throughout June the joint fumigation operation in collaboration with Elche has continued to help combat the infestations that occur at this time of year. During the week of the 7th to the 14th of June the affected areas were sprayed four times. However, the

Avoid everything that can accumulate stagnant water, follow our instructions and recommendations, enjoy the outside space without annoying mosquitoes!

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 READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

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LARGE ITEMS COLLECTIONS

Tuesdays and Thursdays ONLY. Please message this number T: 686 801 323 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.

AJ HOTEL FINALLY OPENS

The 4 star AJ Hotel located next to the commercial centre has finally opened. It has over 100 rooms with terraces, 8 suites, a meeting room, a bar in the lobby, a restaurant and a rooftop pool. With rates starting at €55 per night this is a great place for friends and relatives to stay when visiting or the perfect base for those that are looking to purchase properties in the area.

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LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL!

Whilst it has undoubtedly been a tough year for all of us, the good news is there is now light at the end of the tunnel. Here in Gran Alacant, part of the Valencian Community, we now have the lowest Covid rates per 100,000 in the whole of Europe. Our vaccination rates are the highest in Spain and over 1 million vaccinations were administered throughout Spain over the past weekend. The State of Alarm ended on 8th June 2021 which meant bars and restaurants could open. There is no curfew, the beaches are open and we are now getting back to normal! It’s fabulous to see everyone out enjoying themselves and the bars and restaurants busy again with live music. See the “Out & About” pictures inside this magazine. “End to Outdoor Face Masks” Prime Minister Sanchez announced that facemasks will no longer be required outdoors from 26th June. At present masks do NOT need to be worn when eating, drinking, sunbathing or swimming. Many of our guests have said the fact they can book a private holiday apartment or villa rather than a hotel with shared facilities, has made them much more confident to travel. At the time of writing, the UK has not yet put Spain onto their ‘green list’ but we are hoping this will change. From 1st July 2021 visitors from the United Kingdom need to supply EITHER a negative

PCR/Antigen test on arrival in Spain OR a Certificate of Double Vaccination to show you have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure (this must be an EMA Authorised vaccine which is Moderna, Pfizer, Janssen or Astra Zenica). You simply need to complete a Health Control Form to present on arrival at Alicante Airport. Travel Insurance against Covid is also available through companies such as www.staysure. co.uk. On return to the UK (currently) you will need a PCR or antigen test 72 hours before returning to the UK. These are available in our local clinic here in Gran Alacant and are reasonably priced: Clinica Gran Alacant Family Doctors 24h (MASA Square) Calle Holanda 9, bajo 8, Gran Alacant Open: Monday - Friday: 09.30 - 13.30 0034 865 789 554 PCR test: 98€ results in 24 - 48 hours Antigen test: 50€ results in 20 minutes Please note you must phone to book an appointment in good time for your flight home. We have felt extremely safe here in Gran Alacant during the whole time, and the Health Centres have been amazing with the vaccine rollout here in the Valencian Community and now we can all enjoy the summer on our gorgeous Carabassi beach and we look forward to welcoming you all back!

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C/Holanda 9, bajo 8 Gran Alacant

www.familydoctors24h.com info@familydoctors24h.com

T: 865 789 554

ABOUT US

In 2018, the project of the doctors of Gran Alacant Family Doctors 24h was born. One which consisted in creating a familiar clinic where patients could be in a close environment, with a trustworthy and reliable doctor that keeps track of them, and even assists their emergencies and other kinds of necessities, of them and their family. With the objective of making an improvement in the health area, more than two years ago we begun this pathway - the GP and general doctors, along with the odontologist, the psychologist, the pediatrician, the gynecologist, the physiotherapist and osteopath, the aesthetic doctor, the cardiologist, the personnel of nursing assistants and other collaborators. We offer an integral health service with the best assistance quality, delivering personalized solutions to our patients. Family Doctors 24h consists of reference

physicians in their respective specialities. Our clinic is located in a privileged and wellcomunicated area of Gran Alacant, close to the shopping centre and only 10 minutes away from the Alicante-Elche airport, near of the most important cities of the province of Alicante. Family Doctors 24h has facilities with personalized attention and the support of the most advanced technology. We provide the patient with an emergency service with 24-hour telephone service, 365 days a year. Our dental clinic offers general dentistry for children and adults, cosmetic and restorative dentistry, orthodontics. We have a personal treatment with the best solutions for each case. We also help with home visit service for patients who have mobility problems.

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OUR SPECIALITIES:

A lovely surprise from one of our patients. The Gran Alacant Family Doctors team appreciates that you are part of our family. Not just patients, but also friends.

PERSONAL ATTENTION

What characterizes us is the personal attention we give our patients and their family. We seek solutions to their problems, including, if necessary, communication with our specialist laboratories and collaborating hospitals for complete care.

• • • • •

GENERAL MEDICINE DENTAL CLINIC PEDIATRICS CARDIOLOGY GYNECOLOGY

• • • • • •

PSYCHOLOGY PHYSIOTHERAPY BLOOD TEST ULTRASOUND HOME ASSISTANCE 24H AESTHETIC MEDICINE

THIS MONTH’S PROMOTIONS: FAMILY DOCTORS MEMBER CARD one payment per year and you will receive: * GP consultation 20€ (normally 60€) * One FREE dental polish & check up per year * Monthly offers and promotions

GENERAL CHECK 75€

Consultation, Blood Test, ECG (normally 130€)

COVID PCR TEST 98€ - ANTIGEN 50€ DENTAL 2X1 & LED WHITENING 150€ PLAZA MAYOR

YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIORITY 11

POP IN TO TRY OUR NEW breakfast & Lunch Menu

Breakfast

Bolognese Tagliatelle

Lasagne

Pork Ribs

Hunters Chicken

Pinsa Romana Everyday EAT IN OR TAKE AWAY

Pinsa is the Ancient Roman Pizza. A lighter, healthier version of our beloved authentic Italian Pizza characterized by a crunchy outside with a soft inside

& EVERY SATURDAY

A JUG OF SANGRIA ON THE HOUSE MARGHERITA VENECIA CAPRICCIOSA SALMON VEGETARIAN COLOSEUM MUSHROOM

EVERY SUNDAY

SPECIAL SUNDAY TAPAS MENU with LIVE MUSIC in MASA SQUARE from 3pm Opening hours: Monday 18:00 - till close I Tuesday - Sunday 10:00 till close

MASA SQUARE, CALLE HOLANDA 9, GRAN ALACANT T: 711 04 2434 12

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SUMMER EVENTS

FRI 23 JULY 7pm

Quiz - every Monday 7pm

FRI 20 AUG 7pm

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MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB

Sponsored by The Pub, Gran Alacant Insurances, Dialprix and The Belfry

MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB LADIES AFTERNOON TEA Thursday 27th May Eighteen bowlers and social members attended the afternoon tea at the Belfry. What a lovely afternoon we all had. The food was delicious the company great and the drinks flowed. Thank you to all the staff at the Belfry and the ladies of the social committee for another enjoyable get together.

CHICKEN RUN Sunday 30th May Twenty four bowlers took part in the

monthly chicken run so we were able to have four rinks of trips. As usual we had a refreshment break after nine end then had a redraw. The lady winner of the chicken was Lynda Saunders, Mick Soars was the winner of the mens. Lynne Armitage and Ted Hyman won the eggs. Thank you to Val and Ted Hyman for donating the chickens and Julia and Ian for donating the eggs. The table top sale did well, we will be holding a table top again next chicken run the last Sunday in July. Graham Smythe won the football card with Hearts. IN HOUSE COMPETITIONS The Monday and Friday leagues are now complete. The winners of the Monday League were Sheila Roberts, Jack Burrell

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Monday League Winners

Friday League Winners

and Ian Hamilton, the Friday League was won by Lynne Armitage, Gina Hindle and Les Bounds. Well done everyone and thank you to Cindy for organising the Monday League, Lynne and Howie for organising the Friday league. As the Monday and Friday Leagues have been so successful, we are starting another seven-week competition. The first Monday will commence June 21st 10:00 for 10:30 and the Friday League will be June 25th in the evening 16:30 for 17:00. There will be a meal organised. SOCIAL EVENTS The next social event is a barbecue to be held at Santara Life Resort Saturday 24th July at 15:00. The details are on the notice board at the Bowls Club. Please check for all social events on Friends of Monte Mar or on the notice board at the Bowls Club. 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

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ENJOY YOUR DRINKS AT THE POOL

Pool fees: 5€ adult - 4€ child - 2€ sunbed - 40€ for 21 day pool ticket and 150€ all Summer ( July, Aug, Sep) for you and your friends

POOLSIDE MASSAGE

To book your relaxing pool side massage contact Vanesa T: 658 126 491 AQUA GA BOOTCAMP Monday 9am - Wednesday 10am Friday 9am To book your space contact Lynne T: 642 01 0471

T: 656 481 555 C/HOLLANDA 9 - GRAN ALACANT 03130 FB: RINCONDEMONTEMAR INSTAGRAM: MONTEMARCLUB 16

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PIZZERIA NOW OPEN PIZZERIA

11AM - 4PM & 8PM - 12PM ALL DAY WEEKENDS

Pizzas - Burgers - Hot Dogs Chicken Wings - Salads

TABERNA

OPEN 7AM - 1AM

Bar - Terrace - Cafe - Breakfast Traditional Tapas - Wine Selection Iberic Cheeses - Cured Hams

VENUE RENTAL

Group Events - Private parties Separate Restaurant Spacious venue - Bowling Greens

T: 656 481 555 C/HOLLANDA 9 - GRAN ALACANT 03130 FB: RINCONDEMONTEMAR INSTAGRAM: MONTEMARCLUB PLAZA MAYOR

BOOK CLUB GRAN ALACANT Book of the month by Beth Published in 2016 I cannot praise this book enough My Recommended Book of the Month The Underground Railway By Colson Whitehead

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.

Cora is a slave on a cotton Plantation in Georgia. All the slaves have a hellish existence but Cora has it worse than most. When another slave called Caesar tells her about The Underground Railway they take the perilous decision to escape to the north and Canada. At each stop of her journey, Cora encounters a different world. As Whitehead brilliantly recreates the terrors for black people, his narrative weaves the story from the brutal importation of Africans to the unfulfilled promises of the present day. I have to say this book moved me profoundly.

GA Book Club meeting with Crime Fiction Author Damon Rose Local author Damon Rose will be joining the GA Book Club on Wednesday 21 July to discuss his book Handover Murders. The book itself was the runner up for The Proverse Prize for new authors. Book club members enjoy the Crime Fiction genre and are looking forward to chatting with Damon about his novel. New members welcome to join. For more information on Damon’s book check out this link. https://www.amazon.com/HandoverMurders-Damon-Rose-ebook/dp/ B07LDMZV7N

NEXT BOOK CLUB MEETING

Wednesday 21st July 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

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Celebrating Birthdays in GA Share your special moments with us & email: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

Happy 60 Birthday Michael

Happy 10th Birthday Tommy

The best friend & the best dog in the world! xxx

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Happy 60 Birthday June

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The Reiki Room

REIKI ROOM

SANTARA LIFE RESORT

3535

TERRY TALKS

Alcohol free opinion & Chat terry@montelinvestments.co.uk

CONVID 21

I have never been, and never will be a conspiracy theorist. I’ve always felt governments are generally honest, but I now have my doubts. I have also lost faith in the news media who seem to have become a mouth piece for the government.

vulnerable professions like carers teachers etc before moving onto ages. We sit here in Mid-June and the UK has given 68.8 million doses, with 28.8 million fully vaccinated, Spain 30.5 Million and 11.3 million fully vaccinated. Including me.

COVID came and destroyed many lives and businesses. We were told to isolate, to quarantine, to keep our distance and to wear masks. Important precautions! “SAVE OUR NHS” was the call and Intensive Care Units across the globe were filling up with COVID patients at the expense of those who also needed it.

Now maybe I’m a simple chap, but on the presumption that within those figures, the most vulnerable are included, why oh why are the travel restriction between Spain and the UK still in place?

It was pretty clear from the onset that COVID was not about wiping out the human race, but about destroying the healthcare system. So the answer was simple, given that illnesses don’t tend to magically disappear, create a vaccine that protects the most vulnerable, those who were filling up the ICU wards. Now oddly in the early days a Florence Nightingale emergency hospital was built. But to the best of my knowledge was never used. Anyone know why? Has the media asked that question? Anyway, shortly before Christmas the vaccines appeared. Some have queried the speed they were created. Not a conspiracy, merely what happens when a pandemic is in danger of destroying the Western economies and you dangle the incentive of billions of dollars to the winning vaccine. So we all thought, the beginning of the end. The UK was off the blocks like a rat up a drainpipe. The EU somewhat slower. Priorities were different. In the UK age order, here in Spain cherry picked

Given having the vaccine does not stop you carrying the virus, shouldn’t we here in Spain be more cautious of the British? But no we correctly now welcome them with open arms. Those that may suffer most from infection are now protected. This surely is true now in the UK. Is there something else going on? I’m thinking that little thing called BREXIT. Old Boris, who despite his wealth and position still seems to struggle to find a hairdresser, I am convinced has an agenda. 1. He wants the Brits to spend their money in Britain thus boosting the British economy. Forgetting of course UK holidays can be considerably more expensive than a foreign trip and may well be depriving many average people of a deserved getaway. Of course if you’re rich enough you can still travel because the costs of PCRs and isolation is small to the wealthy. 2. His desire to paint continental Europe as some plague ridden land he was key in getting the UK to leave. I, as a UK passport holder and fully vaccinated, feel discriminated against.

TERRY TALKS

Alcohol free opinion & Chat terry@montelinvestments.co.uk

Having seen no family for over a year being denied unless I can pay through the nose and lock myself away for 10 days from the country of my birth. To add insult to injury the press has become the mouthpiece of government. Where are the questions? Where are the challenges? Who is asking the government WHY if we are vaccinated can we not return to normality? WHY? WHY? WHY? Sadly, I don’t expect an answer. Too many people have become timid sheep. Time to question.

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL 1. 2. 3. 4.

It’s Hot England haven’t lost in the EURO yet (bear in mind I wrote this on 14 June) Beer is still cheap Spain is open to everyone, and we welcome you with a smile, a glass of wine and a ‘Salud’ Disagree with anything? What an opinion you have discussed? Message me on terry@montelinvestments.co.uk (putting Terry Talks in the subject matter) Or you can comment on the online version of the magazine on facebook.

Rentals - Key Holding Property Management

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SIERRA MAR

Out & About ... Inauguration ...

in Gran Alacant

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WE URGENTLY NEED MORE HOUSES TO SATISFY OUR CLIENTS! COME IN & TALK TO US!

We had another successful month but we need to expand our portfolio, so if you wish to sell your property then please get in touch as we have buyers waiting. www.ga-homefinders.com

info@ga-homefinders.com

Avda.Finlandia, 19, BL2, Local 5 Gran Alacant - Santa Pola (Alicante)

T: 0034 96 669 94 40 48

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WE ARE THE ONLY API REGISTERED AGENT IN GRAN ALACANT Avda.Finlandia, 19, BL2, Local 5 Gran Alacant

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Home Turf Wine Country ... Did you know that Alicante has the oldest remains of wine production in the Iberian Peninsula and one of the oldest wineries in Europe? The Alicante region is home to a wine producing tradition that stretches back over thousands of years. The province is home to vineyards and bodegas with a growing reputation at the forefront of Spain’s renewed viticulture. A little bird told us that the readers of Gran Alacant Advertiser were thirsty for some local wine so in the last month we visited one of the largest and most well known local producers, Enrique Mendoza, as well as making a visit to the province’s famous “little Tuscany” The Alforins valley to taste some of the artisanal wines produced in that area.

but it also exports Alicante wines all over the world. We joined an English language tour led by one of the company’s in-house experts. The tour started with a descent to the deep concrete cellars containing the huge oak barrels slowly aging future vintages. Our guide explained the various

In Alfaz del Pi, just a few kilometres outside Benidorm the wine producer Enrique Mendoza has its visitors’ centre and tasting rooms. The business actually grows its vines 60 kilometres inland near the town of Villena, where Juan originally comes from and where the soil and weather is particularly well suited to grapes. Contrary to the popular image of wine businesses being ancient family concerns, Enrique Mendoza was started only around fifty years ago and is now managed by the second generation of the Mendoza family. The family has a commitment to employing the most modern and sustainable production techniques combined with local wisdom. The company’s products are found in wine menus in many local restaurants and bars

types of barrel used for different wines and the link between Spanish wine producers and Scottish whisky distillers (the distillers employ used wine barrels to age whisky thereby giving it an Iberian richness). We then moved to the trial vineyard where different varieties of grape are tested and methods of cultivation developed.

The tour continued with a tasting session held under the shade of trees in the grounds of the bodega. We were expertly guided through the various white, rose, red and sweet wines produced by Enrique Mendoza, observing the different tasting notes and characteristics of each wine. The tour was rounded off by a visit to the bodega shop with an opportunity to

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purchase wines. The tour and especially the tasting is highly recommended for anyone interested in wine or simply willing to have a good time. Alicante also offers wines from smaller artisanal producers and to sample these we had headed inland from the coast to the wine town of Fontanars del Alforins. Fontanars belongs to the Valencia province but borders with the province of Alicante, only 60 kms from Gran Alacant. This delightful town sits in a beautiful valley known locally as “little Tuscany” due to its rolling vineyards and numerous stuccoed bodegas. The valley produces numerous wines and Fontanares contains wine shops stocking many of the local products. On the day of our visit the broad main street of the town was occupied by the weekly Sunday market and also that powerful symbol of Spanish rural life, a group of riders mounted on magnificent horses; we were clearly a long way from the Costa!

In a local wine dealer situated in a restored warehouse, La Caudalía, we were invited by the staff to sample some of the local wines and vermouths and we subsequently exited with two cases of assorted local wines, as you do! The area surrounding the town is one of the most beautiful in Alicante. It is a broad sweeping valley liberally scattered with vineyards and small country manor houses built in beautiful classical styles; indeed very evocative of Tuscany and quite unexpected in Southern Spain. We highly recommend a visit to Fontanars and a drive through the lush wine country surrounding the town.

Anyone with a taste for wine will enjoy either the bodega tour at Enrique Mendoza or a day out in the Tuscany of Valencia and its surrounding countryside. However, even those who are teetotal will appreciate how taking an interest in the local wine production reveals our region’s culture, history and landscape as well as an important part of the local economy and way of life. Follow us on Instagram: juanruano.oficial & archiemaddan

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LOS MONTESINOS

WHAT’S THAT IN THE CLOT? TRUST US

by Mark Etheridge

ROLLER AND CENTIPEDE

This month’s photograph is reproduced with the kind permission of Greta Owen, my birding friend and resident of Gran Alacant, who took it in May of this year. The bird is a Roller, which is rarely seen in the Clot, but is regular around the countryside, particularly between La Marina and Elche, where it often nests in old woodpecker holes in palm trees. It tends to favour open lowland areas with scattered trees, either cultivated or scrub areas. It is a summer visitor to our area of Spain from April through to late September. It's a chunky bird the size of a Jackdaw (a small crow for those who don't know it) and is distantly related to the crow family. That’s all well and good, but what is that ghastly thing in its beak, I hear you cry. Good question, and one which I wouldn’t have known unless it had been identified on Facebook by Julian Sykes, one of the wildlife experts in our area. He named it as a Mediterranean Banded Centipede, which turns out to be the largest centipede in our area, and fairly common – it is known in Spanish as Escolopendra. Although it is common, it is highly unlikely that you will come across one unless you are extremely unlucky – a close encounter with one of these is likely to involve a painful

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sting from this animal, which will certainly give you grief but is unlikely to be fatal. The Escolopendra lives mostly underground, beneath rocks, fallen trees or leaf litter, and prefers a damp habitat. It is an opportunistic carnivore, eating just about any animal smaller than itself, including insects, worms and small lizards, which it will paralyse by the use of its sting. It hibernates during the winter, emerging in late March to begin the breeding cycle which results in the female producing up to 30 offspring each year. They vary in colour from bright yellow as in this example, to dark brown. I was astounded to find during my research for this article that there are people who will keep an Escolopendra as a pet in a vivarium – the same sort of people who also keep snakes and tarantulas I suppose, but each to his own… Still, it’s good to know that our friend the Roller is keeping the Escolopendra population down to manageable levels – this is exactly the sort of prey which the Roller thrives on, including most of the larger resident bugs which give many people the heebie-jeebies. Doesn’t he look pleased with himself? My thanks once again to Greta for this quite exceptional photograph, a reminder of what I have been missing during my enforced absence from 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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CLINICA VETERINARIA GRAN ALACANT EXOTICS

Monday - Friday 10:00 -13:00 & 17:00 - 20:00 Saturday 10:00 -13:00

Tel: 966 698 569

WHAT PANDEMIC TAUGHT US

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

Grooming Service Available

before the European Championship started, makes absolutely no sense

SARS-NCoV 19 pandemic has been terrible for everyone, and even worse in Third World countries, which normally have weak national health systems and a very low number of vaccines available. Here in Europe and the rest of First World countries, we have been lucky by comparison. We consider that, despite all of the bad things the pandemic implied, people have learned a lot of valuable things about health, science, vaccines, fake news, etc. The very first thing is, according to the big differences between 2020 and 2021 statistics, there is no doubt that vaccines work, and they must be used the right way: • an ill individual (with fever or diarrhoea, or immediately after a major operation, for example) cannot be vaccinated till their condition is back to normal • the choice of one type or vaccine or another, and the right pattern depends on the individual, their age and health condition. The same pattern is not valid for every individual (person or animal) • after the inoculation, a few days of quiet life become necessary: no long trips or big efforts, no long walks or hard exercise or massive meals. The vaccine takes its time to take effect (about 2-4 weeks), so you are not automatically protected after the injection. So, the way they vaccinated Spanish football national team immediately

• sometimes we see people who want to inoculate their pet today, because they are going to travel tomorrow. That’s not a good idea, because the stress that a trip implies won’t let the vaccine make a proper effect, and in the worst case scenario, will make the animal seriously ill (just think about those puppies bred by inhuman breeders hundreds of kilometres away from you that have to stand a long and uncomfortable travel and normally have a vaccination immediately before they go. No wonder high mortality ratios happen in these cases • not all the vaccines stop transmission of the disease. What they normally do is, when a vaccinated individual catches the disease, the symptoms are very mild and not life threatening • preventing is far better than treating, medically and economically speaking. It’s much better to vaccine a dog against kennel cough than treating the disease with tablets or injections for a minimum of 10 days • an excellent way for preventing diseases is hygiene and ventilation. It’s much more efficient opening all the windows for a few minutes in the morning and in the evening than cleaning and disinfecting non-stop • shocking news is very often fake news. It is science, not luck, that is rescuing us from the pandemic. Let’s not forget what we have learned these past 2 years, in order to not to repeat the same mistakes in the future!

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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 Button is 7 weeks old and was found on the N332 a few weeks ago. She is a tough little girl and loves to be cuddled.

Chilli is 9 weeks old, he us a curious, friendly boy and will make a lovely companion.

Tabitha, Ellie, India and Dixie have all been adopted from our last issue. Spice is the sister to Chilli, she is affectionate and playful. She is 9 weeks old and ready for her new home.

Pepper is 9 weeks old and looking for a forever home. She is such a beautiful girl and very loving.

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GRAN ALACANT WALKING FOOTBALL

Finally on Tuesday 1st June we were able to restart our indoor sessions at the Jose Antonio Aleman Valero Sports Centre beside the outdoor market in Gran Alacant. At the time of writing this article we have enjoyed 3 weekly sessions at 10am on Tuesdays. One session with the rainstorm hammering on the metal roof was particularly memorable.

As we now adjourn to Tommys Bar after each session, our fortnightly social get-togethers are cancelled. Once we get past the heat of July and August we will look to have a monthly social event. We expect numbers to increase slightly over the coming weeks as old friends begin to arrive back with the continuing relaxations of Covid-19 rules.

Considering the length of time we have been without a facility here in Gran Alacant, the turnout has been good, enabling an entertaining session each week.

Please check our facebook page for any updates regarding our sessions.

Playing on the smaller indoor area with the cushioned floor using an indoor football is a different challenge for those members who have been playing at the outdoor Pereira Stadium in Santa Pola on Mondays and Thursdays.

John Fraser +44 7866315087 I +34 630 582322

Stay safe everyone…

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

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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.

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.

SOCIETY DETAILS ARE AS FOLLOWS: Where: El Plantio Golf Resort. The official address is A-79, Km3, 03114, Alicante.

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.

GA RUNNING GROUP

THE (CONTINUING) ADVENTURES OF THE GRAN ALACANT RUNNERS If you want to join us contact Geoff 0044/ 747 685 1356 In June, Club Atletismo opened up for This month we joined registrations for the 2022 Santa Pola were two new XXX Mitja Maraton which will be held by who on Sunday 23rd January 2022 in Santa members Pola: see https://mitjasantapola.com/ want run in and around la-carrera-mitja-marato-internacional- Gran Alacant when they can. vila-de-santa-pola/inscripciones-mitja- Welcome Lesley and Brian Bewick. marato-internacional-vila-de-santa-pola/ At the time of writing, this year our This is regarded as one of the best half group of runners has collectively ran marathons in Spain and already we have 5463km which is equivalent to running 5 runners from our group registered from Alicante to Cairo. to participate which is always a great day out in Santa Pola for runners and Come and join us on our journey around the streets and paths of Gran Alacant. spectators. READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTHCARABASSI AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com CENTRE

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tinacakes_alicante

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

2 6 3

5 4

6 2

9 9 6

8 9

8 4 9 5

1 9

DOODLE AREA

3 5

5 8

9 4

8 1 2

3 7

7 5

9 6

Difficulty Rating: HARD

9 8

1 5 6

6 1

9 6

NOW IN OUR 16TH YEAR

7 5

Difficulty Rating: MEDIUM DOODLE AREA

7 2 1

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AVISO AL PÚBLICO

(11/21)

Se informa a los Sres. Usuarios de la línea Santa Pola<->Alicante de los horarios establecidos a partir del día 1 de Julio del 2021.

SANTA - ALICANTE SANTA POLA SANTAPOLA POLA-ALICANTE (LINEA-3)

SANTA POLA

6:00 7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00

LABORABLES

GRAN ALACANT

6:05 7:05 8:05 9:05 10:05 11:05 12:05 13:05 14:05 15:05 16:05 17:05 18:05 19:05 21:05 21:05

ARENALES

6:15 7:15 8:15 9:15 10:15 11:15 12:15 13:15 14:15 15:15 16:15 17:15 18:15 19:15 20:15 21:15

GRAN ALACANT

SANTA POLA

GRAN ALACANT ARENALES

7:00 9:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 17:00 19:00

6:20 7:20 8:20 9:20 10:20 11:20 12:20 13:20 14:20 15:20 16:20 17:20 18:20 19:20 21:20 21:20

SÁBADOS

SANTA POLA

7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00

ALTET

7:05 8:05 9:05 10:05 11:05 12:05 13:05 14:05 15:05 16:05 17:05 18:05 19:05 20:05 21:05 22:05

ARENALES

7:15 8:15 9:15 10:15 11:15 12:15 13:15 14:15 15:15 16:15 17:15 18:15 19:15 20:15 21:15 22:15

7:05 9:05 11:05 13:05 15:05 17:05 19:05

7:15 9:15 11:15 13:15 15:15 17:15 19:15

*Estos servicios realizan su paso por BABEL.

6:55 7:55 8:55 9:55 10:55 11:55 12:55 13:55 14:55 15:55 16:55 17:55 18:55 19:55 21:55 21:55

ALICANTE

ALTET

7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00

7:20 8:20 9:20 10:20 11:20 12:20 13:20 14:20 15:20 16:20 17:20 18:20 19:20 20:20 21:20 22:20

ALTET

ALICANTE

8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

8:20 9:20 10:20 11:20 12:20 13:20 14:20 15:20 16:20 17:20 18:20 19:20 20:20 21:20 22:10 23:20

ALTET

ALICANTE

ALTET

7:20 8:20 9:20 10:20 11:20 12:20 13:20 14:20 15:20 16:20 17:20 18:20 19:20 20:20 21:20 22:20

DOMINGOS Y FESTIVOS

ALICANTE

7:20 9:20 11:20 13:20 15:20 17:20 19:20

7:55 8:55 9:55 10:55 11:55 12:55 13:55 14:55 15:55 16:55 17:55 18:55 19:55 20:55 21:55 22:55

7:55 9:55 11:55 13:55 15:55 17:55 19:55

8:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00

LABORABLES

ARENALES GRAN ALACANT

7:30 8:30 9:30 10:30 11:30 12:30 13:30 14:30 15:30 16:30 17:30 18:30 19:30 20:30 21:30 22:30

SÁBADOS

ARENALES

8:30 9:30 10:30 11:30 12:30 13:30 14:30 15:30 16:30 17:30 18:30 19:30 20:30 21:30 22:30 23:30

7:40 8:40 9:40 10:40 11:40 12:40 13:40 14:40 15:40 16:40 17:40 18:40 19:40 20:40 21:40 22:40

GRAN ALACANT

8:40 9:40 10:40 11:40 12:40 13:40 14:40 15:40 16:40 17:40 18:40 19:40 20:40 21:40 22:40 23:40

DOMINGOS Y FESTIVOS

8:20 10:20 12:20 14:20 16:20 18:20 20:20

ARENALES

8:30 10:30 12:30 14:30 16:30 18:30 20:30

GRAN ALACANT

8:40 10:40 12:40 14:40 16:40 18:40 20:40

SANTA POLA

7:50 8:50 9:50 10:50 11:50 12:50 13:50 14:50 15:50 16:50 17:50 18:50 19:50 20:50 21:50 22:50

SANTA POLA

8:50 9:50 10:50 11:50 12:50 13:50 14:50 15:50 16:50 17:50 18:50 19:50 20:50 21:50 22:50 23:50

SANTA POLA

8:50 10:50 12:50 14:50 16:50 18:50 20:50

BUS URBANO GRAN ALACANT (LINEA 15)

*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

Alicante, a 28 de Junio del 2021

DOMINGOS Y FESTIVOS NO FUNCIONA

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