FRalwaays EE s
WHAT’s INSIDE CONTENTS
4-6-8-10 NEWS IN ENGLISH 11-13
NEWS IN SPANISH
10 GA PLAZA 20 GA BOWLS CLUB 26 BLUEMOON COMPUTER PAGE 28 WHAT'S THAT FLOWER 43 GA FEREL FRIENDS 45 BIC-A-BRAC 46 PETS IN SPAIN 46 K9 CLUB 47 M.A.B.S. PICTURES
Firstly, we wish you all a Happy and Healthy New Year. This edition is always the most difficult for us as it has to be printed before Christmas as our printer shuts down for the holiday period. Difficult to get our advertisers thinking of January, well before Christmas.
So, as you read this, Christmas will be over and done with, so we hope you had a lovely time. We have advertises in this January magazine giving you information about where and when to go to wind down after plenty of over eating and over drinking. We start this month with articles from Rose Jackson “What’s that flower”. Hope you enjoy them.
49 BRISH LEGION 50 GA VET 52 GA DARTS 52 TOURIST INFO 53 WHATS IN TNE CLOT 54 WORDSEARCH 55 SUDOKU 56 GA MAP OF ADVERTISERS 58 GA TOURIST TRAIN 59 LOCAL BUSES
Hello everyone
Is there anything you would like to see in future editions? if so, just give us a call. Sandra & Barry Our little dog from the front cover has hidden herself away in the magazine, can you find her? Last month she was on page 31 in the snow.
STILL the BEST ADVERTISING PRICES & SERVICE ON THE COSTAS
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15 euro per month for a 40mm x 60mm advert
95 euro per month for a 153mm x 202mm advert
35 euro per month for a 90mm x 60mm advert
110 euro per month for a 153mm x 232mm advert
55 euro per month for a 128mm x 92mm advert
including artwork and
free advertising on our website!!
(exact location o
(exact location on the GA map at back of this magazine) 3
We at your Gran Alacant Advertiser continue to bring you all of the news, including that from our Gran Alacant Councillor, Loreto Cascales, as we have since May 2005. It is our perogative at the magazine, NOT to update this 2005 picture, as we all looked a great deal younger!!! We know this is the time of the THREE Kings, but for us on Gran Alacant it is the time of THREE projects for us all. 1. The new market site is slowly, slowly, coming to fruition. You can see the progress of the paving around the perimeter. 2. The first purpose built church is now well underway. (another picture on our front cover). The church are paying for the building work on land that was lent to them by the Town Hall. It will be called the church of “Santiago�, named from the area which liberated the Christians from the Moors. THIS AREA
POST
OFFICE NOT FOR 3. As we mentioned in an earlier edition, BUILDING our second school was imminent. It has ON now been officially announced and we include a map to show you its location. The original school is over crowded with 700 infants in a school built for 500. The TOWN HALL LAND FOR new school is for the same age group as THE NEW the existing one and will be used for the SCHOOL children, up the hill. ---------------------------------------------There has been a 20% increase in the number of people in Gran Alacant, an increase bigger than that of Santa Pola. THE MORE THAT SIGN ON THE PADRON, THE MORE MONEY IS GIVEN TO OUR TOWN HALL. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Two new future projects being looked into, if money is available. A 3,000 sq meter dog area down near the petrol station asked for by a group of residents who are willing to look after and monitor it. The second is a large eco park for all of the big rubbish items, such as mattresses, furniture etc. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The large park area on the far left as you enter the urbanisation is to be officially opened in the new year. -----------------------------------------
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An email to us
Hi Just thought I would let you know that : At 9.00a.m. this morning I had a phone call and she said it was a technical centre, cannot remember the name, regarding my computer and needed to check it for some irregularities, I realised it was one of those bogus calls, but if you do not realise they can get you on the computer and then once you are open get into it. The number that came up on our phone was 99985, so that says it all. Looks as though they are on the scene again. Just thought I would warn you. Jan
A scam to ignore!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------A phone call about the bad telephone reception told us that the signal on vodaphone by Panarama up the hill was bad. A change to Yugal has helped but ask if a mast has been taken down in the Calle Africa area.
Waiting for an answer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hi Sandra & Barry, we are the poor o.a.p's that keep requesing a couple of seats on the 2 steepest hills in g.a, the 2 other roads towards the g.a centre have an abundance of seats. We use the carabasi complex from the maxcoop hill, a seat halfway would be a godsend. The beach hill which even the bus struggles up should have at least 2 seats. I know there are seats in the compound but that is not where I run out of puff, you have said lorreta would look into it & & u would provide a seat on maxcoop hill. but that was way back in August.....Ian & Irene
When we last mentioned it we were told that seats had been ordered for the new market site and they would re locate some of them to these hills ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MABS The Get-together at Molly Malone's was even better this year as there was more room and as the weather was sunny but coldish, people could go outside too. We had a lot of things to sell and our thanks to all those who donated their unwanted items. The Raffle raised 215euros but altogether we raised 541.40 euros which was amazing. More than 100 people came to support us and 3 people were interested in becoming volunteers, so it was a very successful afternoon and our thanks to you all. A special thank you to David at Molly Malone's for his generosity and allowing us to use his Bar, our only outlay really was the Mince Pies. David is keen to do another event with us in the New Year. Also thank you to the local businesses who advertised our event and to not Just Desserts for the lovely fruit cake which was the first prize to go in the Raffle!
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I would like to say that Volunteers are paid out of pocket expenses if they ask for them, and the patients we help do not have to pay for the help, they only pay if they specifically say they want to. I did mention at the Get-together that Angela and I are going to retire! from MABS, with so many people there it was a good opportunity to ask if anyone else would step into our shoes. Everything is set up, the volunteers are great and it is not hard work, you only need to want to help people suffering with cancer, and be prepared to give a little time when necessary. We have been volunteers for 7 years and greatly enjoyed all the work we have done, people we have helped and met over the years. We will stay on the Register as Drivers. I organised the Walk because it was something I liked to do, but Jean is the Fundraiser, and she was happy for me to do it. We will carry on until Easter and hopefully by that time a couple of other people will want to take over. Please think about it and of course give us a ring if you are interested. Jan Wright 966 697 754 and Angela 965 060 182.
Pictures of the get together are in this issue of our magazine ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hi Barry & Sandra, hope you are both well, thanks for your continuation of a great Mag. I, like a lot of people wonder why & more to the point if we have a dog warden in Gran Alacant ! In the past I have had meetings with Loreta about dog poo & big dogs on the loose without leads, collar or muzzle, where required by law. I have even asked Loreta to join me with the dog warden to come down to my area where i could show them where dogs are just allowed to do as they please, put out of the gate to roam, poo & endanger other dogs & people ,especially children. But Loreta showed no real interest, in my opinion. I have never seen a dog warden. Is there one? If so maybe he or she should move about Gran Alacant ask people to show their dogs are registered with Santa Pola town hall, not just sit in an office somewhere. As most people know all they have to do is walk about down Carabassi keep your eyes open & you will see plenty of evidence of irresponsible dog owners. Meeting won't sort this problem out its only real action, want a real dog warden Loreta ? At the right price I will do the job,make you plenty of cash in fines!!! Best regards Bill
See the article at the end of our news! Loreto cannot stop people within community areas letting their dogs out on their own. This is the responsibility of each community. An email and picture to us
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Gran Alacant are in luck Thank you very much to everyone who came on Saturday to the food collection outside Mercadona. You have been GO TO PAGE 10
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Spanish
Restaur ant i n Lo s A renales
C/San Bartolomè de Tirajane, no.40 03195 Arenales del Sol. Tel: 96 691 12 13
Menu of the Day (every day of the year) weekday menu ............................................ 9 euros menu Saturday, Sunday and holidays ....... 12 euros.
Evening menu (night only) salad fry (fish) or grill (meat) bread and beverage......(8.50 euros per person minimum two people)....... ......................17 euros.
Special menu .. salad especial starter rice with lobster food, drink and dessert ......(minimum two people).......... 17 euros.
Every day of the week, the menus will consist of 5 first courses (inc pasta, rice, and soup) and 5 main courses (meat or fish).
Open every day of the year Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, do not open at night. WE ARE HERE
POLICE & POST OFFICE
GRAN ALACANT
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very generous, 15 cars were filled with items. Total 1,310 kilos. From the European Neighbourhood Residents Association thank you very much --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------You may have seen the dog fouling signs sent to all Community presidents. Look out for these new important rules for GA. 2 new police personal have been recruited to enforce these rules. They will be watching firstly to check if your dog is registered. Firstly a warning will be given. Five days later if the dog is still unregistered, or if there is any deviation from the rules stated, they will issue a fine . -----------------------------
Sandra and Barry
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Sabemos que están de camino los Tres Reyes Magos, pero para nosotros en Gran Alacant es el tiempo de tres proyectos para nuestra comunidad. 1. El progreso del nuevo mercadillo es lento, pero poco a poco está llegando a su finalización. Se puede ver el progreso de las aceras en todo el perímetro. 2. La construcción de la iglesia ya está en marcha. (imagen de nuestra portada). La iglesia está pagando por el trabajo de construcción en un terreno que fue donado por el Ayuntamiento. La Iglesia se va a llamar “la Iglesia de Santiago", llamado así por la zona que liberó a los cristianos de los moros. 3. Como hemos mencionado en una edición anterior, el proyecto de una segunda escuela está en marcha. Ahora se ha anunciado oficialmente y hemos incluido un mapa para mostrar su ubicación. La escuela original está al límite de su capacidad, con 700 niños en una escuela construida para 500. La nueva escuela es para el mismo grupo de edad como el existente y se utilizará para los niños que viven en la zona de arriba. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Se ha producido un aumento del 20% en el número de personas empadronadas en Gran Alacant, un aumento mayor que el de Santa Pola. CUANTA MÁS GENTE SE EMPADRONE, LA MÁS DINERO SE LE DA A NUESTRO AYUNTAMIENTO. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dos nuevos proyectos de futuro que se están estudiando, si el dinero está disponible. Hay un área de 3.000 m2, cerca de la gasolinera, que ha sido solicitada por un grupo de residente para convertirlo en un parque para perros, los residentes están dispuestos a cuidarlo y monitorearlo. El segundo es un gran parque ecológico para todos los artículos grandes de basura, tales como colchones, muebles, etc -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------El gran parque a la izquierda de la entrada de la urbanización se ha de abrir oficialmente en el nuevo año. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Un correo electrónico que nos han enviado: Hola, Quería hacerles saber que: A las 9 de la mañana recibí una llamada de teléfono y me dijeron que era un centro técnico, no recuerdo el nombre y que querían revisar ciertas cosas de mi ordenador
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y que era necesario comprobar algunas irregularidades, me di cuenta de que era una de esas llamadas falsas, pero si no me hubiera dado cuenta, podrían haber accedido a información (de forma remota). El número que apareció en nuestro teléfono era el 99985, que lo dice todo. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Nos han llamado para comunicarnos que la recepción telefónica de Vodaphone es muy mala en la urbanización Panorama. El cambio a Yoigo ha ayudado, pero querían preguntar si han quitado un mástil de la zona de Calle África. Estamos a la espera de una respuesta. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hola barry, somos dos pensionistas que necesitamos unos bancos (para descansar durante la subida) en las 2 colinas más empinadas Gran Alacant, los otros 2 caminos hacia el centro comercial tienen una gran abundancia de asientos. Utilizamos mucho la subida que va desde el complejo Carabasi hasta Maxcoop, un asiento a mitad de camino sería un regalo del cielo. La colina de la playa, que incluso el bus lucha por subir, debe tener al menos 2 bancos. Usted dijo que Loreto que buscaría y proporcionaría un asiento en la colina Maxcoop. pero eso fue hace tiempo, en Agosto ..... ¿saben algo más? Saludos, Ian e Irene La última vez que lo mencionamos nos dijeron que los bancos habían sido pedidos para el nuevo mercadillo y que van a colocar algunos de ellos en estas subidas. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------MABS se reunió otra vez más en Molly Malones, este año fue mejor ya que había más espacio y como el tiempo fue soleado, la gente usó las zonas exteriores también. Hemos tenido un montón de cosas para vender y nuestro agradecimiento a todos los que donaron sus objetos no deseados . La Rifa recaudó un total de € 215 pero en conjunto recaudamos € 541,40 , que fue increíble. Más de 100 personas vinieron a apoyarnos y 3 personas se interesaron en convertirse en voluntarios, así que fue una tarde muy exitosa. Un agradecimiento especial para David en Molly Malones por su generosidad y que nos permitió utilizar su Bar, nuestro único gasto fueron las empanadas, David está dispuesto a hacer otro evento con nosotros en el Año Nuevo. También gracias a las empresas locales que anunciaron nuestro evento! Me gustaría decir que los voluntarios trabajan de forma gratuita, y que los pacientes a los que ayudamos no tienen que pagar por la ayuda, sólo pagan si específicamente dicen que quieren pagar . Durante la reunión anuncié que Angela y yo vamos a retirarnos de MABS , con tanta gente presente pensamos que era una buena oportunidad para preguntar si alguien más podría hacerse cargo del puesto. Todo está listo y preparado, los voluntarios son muchos y no es un trabajo duro, sólo es necesario querer ayudar a las personas que sufren de cáncer, y estar preparado para dar un poco de tiempo cuando es necesario. Hemos sido voluntarias durante 7 años y hemos disfrutado mucho todo el trabajo que
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hemos hecho, las personas que hemos ayudado y de los eventos que hemos preparado. Seguiremos hasta Semana Santa y estamos esperando que un par de personas queran tomar el relevo. Por favor, piense en ello y, por supuesto, llámenos si usted está interesado . Jan Wright 966 697 754 y 965 060 182 Angela . -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hola Barry & Sandra , espero que los dos estáis bien, gracias por vuestro trabajo continuo con la Revista. Yo, como muchas personas se preguntan por qué tenemos un controlador de perros en Gran Alacant!? En el pasado he tenido reuniones con Loreto sobre los excrementos de los perros y sobre los perros grandes sueltos que pasean sin collar o bozal, cuando lo exige la ley. Incluso le he pedido a Loreto que baje con el guarda a mi zona, donde podía mostrarles que a perros se les permite hacer lo que les plazca. Pero Loreto no mostró ningún interés real, en mi opinión. Nunca he visto al guarda, ¿hay alguno? Si es así tal vez él debería recorrer Gran Alacant pidiendo a la gente que demuestren que sus perros están registrados en el Ayuntamiento de Santa Pola. Como la mayoría de la gente sabe, todo lo que tienen que hacer es caminar por Carabassi, mantener los ojos abiertos y ver un montón de evidencia de los dueños de perros irresponsables. Saludos cordiales Bill -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gracias a todos los que vienieron el Sábado para la recolección de comida (en Mercadona) para los más necesitados. Recaudamos un total de 1,310kg de comida, 15 coches llenos! La Asociación de Vecinos Residentes Europeos -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Es posible que hayan visto las nuevas señales que se les ha enviado a todos los presidentes de las comunidades. Estén atentos a estas nuevas normas importantes para la GA. Han contratado a más personal policial para hacer cumplir estas normas. Los policías estarán atentos, en primer lugar para comprobar si su perro está registrado. En el caso de que no, se le dará una advertencia. Cinco días más tarde, si el perro es todavía no registrado, o si hay alguna desviación de las normas establecidas, se emitirá una multa.
Sandra and Barry
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ASDA Gravy Granules 0.49c ASDA Curry Sauce 500g 0.49c
ASDA Tea Bags 80pk 0.89c TESCO Ginger Nuts 300g 0.59c TESCO soup 400g 0.69c
TESCO stuffing mix 0.39c
ASDA Hairspray 300ml 0.99c TESCO Jam 454g 0.69c
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ASDA Custard 400g 0.49c
OFFICE: 966699477 MOBILE: 620284432 EMAIL: info@granalacantservices.com
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We are easy to find in El Altet. From Gran Alacant turn off the N332 signposted El Altet. Over the roundabout. Over the traffic lights and we are on the right, before the next roundabout.
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PROXIMITY, national 1Red, 667 workshops in Europe, Near your house, you have a workshop, Confort Auto. RENEWED ISO 9001 Quality anuaimente by independent certification.
SOCIAL COMMITMENT TO USE organic products, tyres, oil etc. Colaboration with NGOs involved in road safety
There are coffee shops next to us when waiting for that short job to be carried out. For longer jobs drive your car over to us and we will run you home, and collect you when your car is ready, if in the Gran Alacant area.
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MONTEMAR BOWLS AND SOCIAL CLUB (Sponsored by Super Valu) This month has been an up and down month, (no not that) it is as far as the Bowls is concerned, one match and you think yes not a bad result, then the next match you think why did I bother getting out of bed this morning. But we keep trying. Mon 2nd Dec, The Toreadors were away to San Luis Romulans, Winning on 5 Rinks. Tony Pardo, David Thomas, Skip Danny Ridgewell 17-11. Sue Bounds, Les Bounds, Skip John Corbet 24-11. Pauline Woodfine, Barrie Woodfine, Skip Danny King 22-10. Ken White, Simon Morris, Skip David Smy 17-16. Jan Webster, Bill Webster, Skip Idwal Thomas 18-15. Shots, Toreadors 111 - San Luis 82. Points Toreadors 12 - San Luis 2. Mon 2nd Dec, The Matadors were at Home to San Miguel Comets, Winning on 3 Rinks, and Drawing on 1 Rink. Sue Kemp, Fred Charman, Skip Brian Zelin 19-15. Janet Charman, Mike Farrell, Skip Peter Mathews 14-12. Marilyn Gibbons, Chris Harding, Skip Ian Gibbons 18-16. Joan Harding, Billl Judd, Skip David Eades 16-16. Shots Matadors 95 - San Miguel102. Points Matadors 7 - San Miguel 7. Wed 4th Dec, MonteMar were at Home to Greenlands in the Winter League, Well what can I say, MonteMar won on every Rink,Inflicting Greenlands first defeat of the season, Well done to everyone. Harry Dobson, June Young, Brian Zelin, Skip Bill Young 27-5. Pauline Woodfine, Peter Mathews, Stan Routledge, Skip Barrie Woodfine 20-12. Geraldine Fisher, Sue Kemp, Mike Farrell, Skip Gordon Fisher 21-7. Lynne Armitage, Denise Ashberry, Colin Armitage, Skip Dave Melville 22-17. Danny King, Ethal Finan, Tony Finan, Skip Alan Ashberry 15-11. Shots MonteMar 105 - Greenlands 52. Points MonteMar 12 - Greenlands 0. Unfortunately our Berleen Lost 18-13. Fri 6th Dec, The Matadors were Away to San Luis Lions, Winning on 3 Rinks. Sue Kemp, June Young Skip Brian Zelin 22-16. Joan Harding, Harry Dobson, Skip Bill Young 27-17. Lynne Armitage, Stan Rutledge, Skip Colin Armitage 22-15. Shots Matadors 101 - San Luis 114. Points Matadors 6 - San Luis 8. Fri 6th Dec, The Toreadors were at Home To San Luis Pumas, Winning on 3 Rinks. Dave Smy, Simon Morris, Skip Dave Buckland 16-13. Jenny Pagala, Ken Poulson, Skip Danny King 25-9. Sue Bounds, Les Bounds, Skip John Corbet 16-14. Shots, Toreadors 102 - San Luis 100. Points Toreadors 8 - San Luis 6. Mon 9th Dec, The The Toreadors were at Home to La Marina Astronauts, Winning on 4 Rinks. Sue Bounds, Les Bounds, Skip John Corbet 24-8.Leslie Jones, Jenny Pagala, Skip Ron Jones 23-15. David Smy, Simon Morris, Skip Dave Buckland 20-13. Sandra Herrington, Ken Poulson, Skip Terry Herrington 17-12. Shots, Toreadors 113 - La Marina 87. Points, Toreadors 10 La Marina 4. Mon 9th Dec, The Matadors in the afternoon were at Home to San Luis Romulans, Winning on 3 Rinks. Sue Kemp, Fred Charman, Skip Brian Zelin 23-11. Sheila Roberts, Joe Ridley, Skip Diane Ridley 17-13. Joan Harding, Bill Judd, Skip Alan Ashberry 19-10. Shots, Matadors 104-San Luis 102. Points, Matadors 8-San Luis 6. Wed 11th Dec, MontMar made the long trip to Javia Green in the Winter League, Winning on only 1Rink. Harry Dobson, June Young, Brian Zelin, Skip Bill Young 17-15. Shots, MonteMar 72 - Javea 102. Points MonteMar 2 - Javea 10. Fri 13th Dec, The Matadors were at Home to El Rancho Mustang , Winning on all 6 Rinks. A good way to finish before Xmas. Sue Kemp, Fred Charman, Skip Brian Zelin 21-13. Denise Ashberry, Harry Dobson, Skip Dave Melville 25-12. Lynne Armitage, Stan Routledge, Skip Colin Armitage 22-14. Geraldine Fisher, Mike Farrelly, Skip Gordon Fisher 21-15. Ethal Finan, Tony Finan, Skip Alan Ashberry 26-15. Rowena Good, Joe Ridley, Skip Diane Ridley 25-12. Shots Matadors 140 - El Rancho 81. Points Matadors 14 - El Rancho 0. Fri 13th Dec, The Toreadors were away to El Rancho Raiders, Winning on 4 Rinks. Dave Smy, Simon Morris, Skip Dave Buckland 22-15. Jenny Pagala, Ken Poulson, Skip Danny King 20-14. Sue Bounds, Les Bounds, Skip John Corbet 18-17. Lesley Jones, Ron Jones, Skip Terry Errington 22-12. Shots Toreadors 105 - El Rancho 106. Points Toreadors 8 - El Rancho 6. Fri 13th Dec, We held our Xmas Dinner Dance at the El Rincon restaurant (see pic) A big thanks to Patricia and Angela for their hard work in organizing the Dinner Dance's through the year. For further information about our Bowls and Social Club, Please visit us at www.montemarbowls.com or on Facebook. New members are always welcome.
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CARABASI COMPLEX ADVERTISERS on pages 21 to 25
Bar 1, Olimpo, Casanova, Phoenix, Hispania.
The tourist train and the GA shopping bus, both stop outside this complex. 21
AT THE CARABASI COMPLEX
a subsiduary of Olimpo Construction & Reforms. open Mon-Fri 10 am till 1 pm and 4 pm till 8 pm. Open sat mornings 10 till 1
visit our showroom visite nuestra sala de exposici贸n bezoek onze showroom
e reforms comprehensiv grales reformas inte
you can find us on facebook at Olimpo Construcciones y Reformas
Alex: 669 397 896
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Juli谩n: 660 65 18 27
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THE PHOENIX RESTAURANT
The in place to be..... Don and Ann would like to welcome you to our restaurant upstairs next to the ramp at the Carabassi Centro, where our restaurant is your dining room.
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner.
T KFAS Sm 2.95, Burgers, & Chips, Full Evening Menu BREAFish Med 4.25, Omelettes, Toasties Veggie, Kids, Steaks. from 2.25€ Lge 5.95. and much more....... Set price menu @ 10.99€ ed, ly cook - Freshevery Sunday Carvery Sunday from 12.30pm ducts pro glishveg, Help yourself fresh mash, roasties only 7.90€ alltoEn Opening Times
Monday - Thursday 5.00pm - 9.30pm Friday 10.00 - 2.00pm re-open 5.00pm - 9.30pm Sat 10.00 - 9.30pm Sunday 10.00 - 8.30pm Tel 966 698 364 for reservations
1. Don't imagine you can change a man - unless he's in nappies. 2. What do you do if your boyfriend walks out? You shut the door. 3. If they put a man on the moon - they should be able to put them all up there. 4. Go for the younger man. You might as well, they never mature anyway.
Casanova is the perfect choice for you to enjoy a freshly prepared meal made to our own special recipes. See our board for WINTER SPECIALS. Not forgetting our ever popular Sunday Roast. ers Full children's menu. r custom u o ll a h an k Takeaway available. Year. like to t ld u o py New w p e a H W a Closed on Mondays d in h them be close l il and wis w e Tues - Sat from 5.30pm e that w ase not le ebruary F P d n a Open Sunday y Januar from 1pm - 7pm For reservations Tel: 966 697 567 24
with
Takeaways available from 20th January 2014. Phone your order to 605 67 52 11 and give us your phone number so we can locate you.
SEE MAP AT THE BACK OF THIS MAGAZINE FOR LOCATION ON GRAN ALACANT.
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Nacho Jr’s, Father (chiropodist above) and Mummy want to wish their son a Happy New Year. 27
WHAT'S THAT
FLOWER ?
The Wild Flowers of Santa Pola/Gran Alacant JANUARY
Bermuda Buttercup or Cape Sorrel, Oxalis pes-caprae.
This plant seems to flower after a
shower of rain, on waysides and open land. It has
shamrock-like leaves and its bright yellow flowers are a harbinger of Spring. The flowers are edible and apparently sometimes used as a garnish in salads (though it is not advisable to eat too many due to the oxalic acid they contain). It is a garden escape, originally from the Cape area of South Africa, hence it's other name, Cape Sorrel. There is also a double version which is not so widespread.
"SQUIRTING CUCUMBER, Ecballium elatarium
This is a low, spreading, native perennial with pale yellow flowers and hairy heart-shaped leaves. It's name is due to the unusual way it disperses its seeds; the seed pods, or fruits, are similar to small cucumbers and when ripe, explode at the slightest touch and a pulpy liquid is ejected.It grows on waysides - there is a plant currently in flower at the top of the hill near BBVA, beside the
Welcome to the area of Gran Alacant that includes the Commercial Centre. on the next five pages
As you leave the N332 to come on to Gran Alacant this area is on your right. Our advertisers in this area are:EURONICS/DIGINOVA, HOMEFINDERS & FOR RIDERS PLUS on page 3 GRANNET
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pavement where the land slopes down to a gorge (Calle Monte de Santa Pola). It flowers from
December to September but its fruits will probably not be in evidence until later in the year. Care should be taken not to allow the liquid to make contact with bare skin as it can cause irritation."
Rose Jackson.
rose.jackson1@outlook.com
If you see someone stealing iPhones from an Apple store does that make you an iWitness?
av. Finlandia nยบav. 21Finlandia nยบ 21 centro comercial Gran Alacant telefono centro comercial Gran Alacant telefono 966 697 179 966 697 179 www.forridersshop.com
C/ alfonso XII, nยบ10, Santa Pola telefono 966 693 297
C/ alfonso XII, nยบ10, Santa Pola telefono 966 693 297
Happy New Year to all our customers. All styles of bikes and accessories
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Symbol of confidence
160,000 euro
PROPERTY OF THE MONTH
Urb: Monte y Mar GA0002 Semi-Detached villa with jacuzzi and views over Alicante. Part furnished. 3 beds, 2 baths, 250m2 plot. Open to offers 175,000 euro
Urb: Monte y Mar GA0055 Detached villa with private pool. Un furnished. 3 bed, 2 bath, plot size aprox 640, aircon/ heating and solarium. 310,000 euro
143,000 euro
Urb: Monte y Mar GA0206 Semi-Detached villa with room for a pool. Great views. Furnished, 3 bed, 3 bath, A/C and heating and solar water heating. 175,000 euro
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455,000euro
230,000 euro
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L MONTEOSS INOS
Important information from ORKE Services
SPANISH DRIVING LICENCE
Ballet I was a dancer once in Swan Lake. I fell in.
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I went to see my doctor and he said 'I want you to lie down on the couch.' I said, 'What for?' He said, 'I want to sweep up.'
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ADVERTISE WITH US
YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE
DON’T WASTE YOUR MONEY ADVERTISING TO PEOPLE MILES AWAY FROM YOUR BUSINESS. THEY WILL NOT BE INTERESTED!
KEEP IT LOCAL!!!!!
Masa Square and Sierra Mar A clutch of adverts on the next six pages are in two traffic free squares on Gran Alacant. See the map at the back of this magazine for the exact locations At Sierra Mar are Patagonia, La Paletta and Not Just Desserts At Plaza Mayor (Masa Square), you have, Hole in the Wall, Times Square, a second Patagonia, Big Al’s, & Azafran Indian restaurant. The GA bowls club, is adjacent to the square.
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Below and on pages 41 and 42 are advertisers at the
Masa Square marked on our Gran Alacant map at the back of this magazine. Azafran Indian Restaurant, Big Al’s, Times Square & Hole in the wall, all in the traffic free square for your enjoyment.
A drunk was driving his car down a one-way street when a policeman stopped him. The cop said, 'Didn't you see the arrows?' He said, 'Arrows? I didn't even see the Indians.' ************ I bought some pork chops and told the butcher to make them lean. He said, 'Which way.
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Supplied by Sheila Mitchell
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I told the waiter, bring me a chicken. So he brought me a chicken. 'Just a minute,' I said, 'It's only got one leg. 'It's been in a fight.' I said, 'Well, bring me the winner........................... I entered an astronomy contest the other day. I didn't come first but I won a constellation prize.
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FERAL (animals) FRIENDS OF GRAN ALACANT & nearby areas Bank account details: 0073 0100 54 0486406431 Iban ES94, Swift OPENESMM There are many Vet bills/animals in need. You can help by: Sponsor an animal for an amount per month or puntual donations.
Tintín still needs treatment for his eye!! & This is just one of the 7 loving beautiful gingers bro-sis, doctored, in need of a home.
Tintín, 3 sisters and 3 young ones tamed & There are siamese, loving. gingers, WILL YOU turtoise, white, & tiger-grays. ADOPT ME?? FERAL FRIENDS DOES NOT HAVE A SHELTER. OUR WORK IS TO TRAP FERALS TO STERELIZE THEM AND SAVE & ATTEND THOSE INJURED OR ILL. Due to lack of funds since 2012 We are only attending extreme urgencies. PLEASE DONATE !!
CHRISTMAS 3 KING´S DRAW
Each Raffle Ticket at 1€
(All tickets will be back-stamped by the org. FF)
Our Kind Sponsors this year: Alicante Holiday Villas Not Just Desserts El Rincón de Pili Restaurant Armony Gym Rumors Pub Draw will be no later than
Consum just donated our 7th prize, an 8 item hamper (two bottles & Xmas goodies).
5th Jan Prize/s can be used until 30th June 2014. The org is not responsible for any changes of last min. (though values will be kept).
Feb issue will have the winning nos. drawn.
SUPPORT US, PLEASE your support makes a difference
Foster Homes & Volunteers Needed. Litter, food & material accepted (except Generic Markets brand food. Aldi is OK). For info contact feralfriends.ga@gmail.com 697 574 199 (except Sundays)
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There is a Mass held at the library on Gran Alacant Every Sunday at 12.30pm DON’T FORGET every 3rd Sunday in the month all of the bargain stalls set up on the car park outside the Council Office in GA
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My wife said 'Take me in your arms and whisper something soft and sweet'. I said, 'chocolate fudge'.
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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. To view more animals for adoption go to: www.petsinspain.com If you would like to advertise an animal email: info@petsinspain.info From last month’s edition 4 of Holly’s pups have been adopted and Bobby was re-united with his owner, sadly still have Sonny, Ximo and Angel. Pepe is around 2 years old and is a big softie! Pepe has had all his vaccinations and has been neutered. He is calm when needed and when it is time he likes to get-up-and-go, he loves to play and go on long walks.
Cleo is around 11 months old and is very affectionate, she was living on the streets with her kittens but now in a foster home. Cleo is sterilised and negative for all feline diseases. Call: 645 469 253
Barney is a little poodle type and was found in the campo. His fur was completely matted and needed shaving off, he is approximately 1 year old, extremely friendly and great with other dogs and cats. Call: 645 469 253
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Call: 645 469 253 Tinsel and Cracker are 10 weeks old, Cracker is the loving one who likes cuddles and kisses and Tinsel loves to play. Both kittens are good with other cats and dogs. Call: 966 731 350
pictures from the
M.A.B.S.
get together at “Molly Malones” as described in our news section.
ONE WAY OF GETTING INTO THE CONSUM CAR PARK
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La Marina..La Marina..La Marina..La Marina..La Marina..La Marina
The DENTAL PRACTICE and CUTS R US are on the La Marina Urbanisation.
Tel: 966 797 119 659 728 128
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Tel: 966 797 119 or 659 728 128
Royal British LegionGran Alacant Branch BR 3606
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Tel: 966 698 569
Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán 793 English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747
HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES AND PLACEBOS Last week we read in the papers that the sale of homeopathic medicines at the pharmacies is going to be definitively approved. Spanish Health Ministry is preparing a law for regulating this sale. Despite this, purchasing homeopathic medicines is been very easy in every Spanish pharmacy for years. How is it possible? Just because these substances are sold in application of a transitory exception of a law. New law will make controls more strict, but on the other hand it will make the purchase of these substances even easier than today. We suppose everybody know more or less what homeopathy consists of: it’s an alternative (or complementary to ordinary Western medicine), which implies using mineral, vegetal or animal substances prepared by using a very high degree of dilution. There is a homeopathic medicine chair in Zaragoza University Medicine School, promoted by Boiron Laboratories. This French medicine manufacturer has the Copyright of thousands of homeopathic medicines, so, as everyone can imagine, is really interested on making this new law approved as soon as possible. Another interesting matter about alternative therapies, is the placebo effect, as some statistics say about 25% of human or animal patients improve just by using a placebo, no matter what the problem is (cardiac, infectious, articular, etc), with the only exception of cancer and some other degenerative pathologies, in which no placebo makes the patients improve significantly. It’s even more surprising in Veterinary medicine than in human ones the fact that the patient may improve by using a placebo, since the animal patient is unable to realize is having a medicine (whatever is a real or fictitious one), but statistics prove placebo effect does exist even in animal patients. Some interesting conclusions of these studies are: -The size of the pills (big ones have a “bigger power of cure” than small ones). -The color of the pills (yellow and red ones are “more efficient”) He have lots of new studies every day, so we know more and more, but we are sure human (and animal) mind is still our biggest challenge nowadays. Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán col 793 English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747
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CCW electrical services Qualified electrician All electrical work undertaken Tel 617872405 contact Clive or Wendy
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Gran Alacant
Darts League
GRAN ALACANT PROPERTIES CUP TOURNAMENT
January 20 at 8:30 pm Host team in italics
DIVISION 1 CUP GAMES (ROUND 1) Ruby Tuesday´s v Bar Sioux B Oceans A v The Bull X Los Chulos de la Frei v Chasers A Webster´s Boys v Bar Sioux Old Boys DIVISION 2 CUP GAMES (ROUND 1) Rumours Men v Big Al´s Tossers The Matadors v Rumours Ladies Chasers B v Websters ladies Sandhills v True Blues
Hi everybody, In January the 5th we have parades for the Three Kings in every corner on the Costa Blanca. In Santa Pola it will take place on the 5th at 19:00h. If you want to enjoy one of the best parades for the Three Kings you have to go to Alcoy. I hope you have enjoyed, at least, one of the many cribs on display. In Santa Pola we have a beautiful one at the Castle. I know in Torrevieja there is another beautiful one In Cañada next to Villena, they make a performance of the birth and the arrival of the Three Kings to bring presents to Jesus, is real theatre carried out by amateurs. This event is declared of national tourist interest. Once again I would like to remind you about the Santa Pola International Half Marathon, it will take place on Sunday 19th at 10:30 a.m., If you have not seen yet, do please come and enjoy the atmosphere, In many runners opinion’s is the best in Spain. The day before, on Saturday morning you can also enjoy the fun race for children, we called Mini-Marathon but last year more than 1400 children took part in it. Bye-bye Friends.
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WHAT’S THAT? IN THE CLOT?
by Mark Etheridge
A good way to relax after the excesses of Christmas would be to take a leisurely drive in the countryside around Gran Alacant, and perhaps explore some of the little used farm tracks which disappear off into the distance. The most important thing to check before you do this is that your car is up to the rigours of these stony tracks, so that you do not break down miles from anywhere and require the services of a Grua – which is the Spanish word for a breakdown truck for those of you who have had the fortune not to require their services. At this time of year, you might well see a Grua, or Grulla as it is more commonly known in Castellano Spanish, in the fields, although as they are very sociable birds, where you see one you will usually see several. This is the Common Crane, which is a regular visitor to our area in winter, and unmissable when you see them. Similar in size to the Grey Heron, they are more slender and elegant birds which hold their necks outstretched when they fly, unlike the Heron which curls its neck into a s-shape when airborne. The Heron is quieter, giving an occasional harsh “gronk” but the Crane has a very distinctive, loud and far-carrying trumpeting call which will make you look up when they fly over in a flock. It is unlikely that they will land in the Clot as they need an open aspect to watch for predators, but I have seen several flyovers.
Most of these birds will be visitors from their breeding grounds in the wild steppes of Russia and other North Eastern European areas. They used to be fairly common in the UK, until they died out in the 1700s due to habitat loss and hunting, but the good news is that a few birds have begun to nest again in Norfolk, and a reintroduction scheme is underway in the wetland areas of Somerset to provide a thriving UK population. You will see Cranes in our area, particularly around El Hondo, from late October to early March.
Cranes are omnivorous birds, using fields to root about for edible plant matter, as well as the occasional insects, small rodents, lizards and amphibians. This is generally of benefit to the farmers, as they help clear harvested fields of waste plants before the spring sowing. If you see a group of birds as shown in my photo, it is highly likely to be a family group – the adults are monogamous, with pair bonds lasting for life, and youngsters may associate with their parents for up to three years before they themselves begin breeding. Cranes are often depicted in sculpture in Mediterranean areas, particularly in cemeteries, as symbols of vigilance. It was believed that a Crane watching over its family and standing on one leg was holding a stone in the other, and if it should doze off, the stone would drop, hit its standing leg and wake it up.
If you’re interested, you can view a full selection of my photographs taken in the Clot and other nearby areas by logging on to www.marketheridge.smugmug.com See you next month.
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WORDSEARCH “New Year” in Spanish & English
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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 Difficulty rating: medium
DOODLE AREA
Difficulty rating: hard
ANSWERS ON GRAN ALACANT MAP PAGE
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A map to help you find places of interest, and the locaton of all of ALLOTMENTS
CARABASI BARS COMPLEX (DOWN THE HILL) *PHOENIX RESTAURANT *BAR 1 *OLIMPO *CASANOVA *HISPANIA
PLAZA MAYOR
VET GA EXOTICS TIMES SQUARE AZAFRAN HOLE IN THE WALL PATAGONIA STEAK HOUSE BIG AL’s
SITE OF THE NEW CHURCH
SCHOOL
THURSDAY M
7
PETANC AND CHILDRENS PLAY AREA
5 1
GA BOWLS CLUB
TOP-UP DELIVERY POINT Euronics
EURONICS ELECTRICAL
HOMEFINDERS /SOLEIL FOR RIDERS
2 GRANNET BOTTOM FLOOR OF THE GA COMMERCIAL CENTRE
3
Proposed new road
PROPOSED SITE FOR A NEW HEALTH CENTRE, and a SECOND SCHOOL
BLUE AREAS SUCH AS “SPORTS CENTRE” & BROWN AREAS SUCH AS THE “SCHOOL” are reserved for Council amenities, and are NOT for housing
CHIROPODY & PHYSIOTHERAPY
SUDOKU SOLUTIONS
from previous page EASY HARD
MEDIUM
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our advertisers on Gran Alacant. Get your business on our map. PARK
TOP-UP DELIVERY POINT Phoenix
NOT JUST DESSERTS PATAGONIA no.2 STEAK HOUSE La PALETTA DENTIMAR
MARKET
TOURIST INFORMATION
1 MAXCOOP SUPERMARKET 2 SUPERVALU SUPERMARKET 3 MERCADONA SUPERMARKET 4 MEDICAL CENTRE G.A. COUNCILLOR MUNICIPAL OFFICES LIBRARY 5 THURSDAY MARKET 6 POST OFFICE 7 SCHOOL
PETANC AND CHILDRENS PLAY AREA
4
6
ASDA & TESCO LA TASCA
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GRAN ALACANT PROPERTIES
GA farmacia
TOP-UP DELIVERY POINT Quicksave SPORTS CENTRE & NEW MARKET GA ECO RUBBISH
GA TV G.A. SERVICES & SOL COMPUTERS
BRICO
IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Aquagest 24hr..(water co.)...902 250 170 Aeropuerto..............................966 919 000 Ayuntamiento-Gran Alacant. ............966 697 749 Alicante Bus Station...............965 130 700 Alicante Train Station.............902 240 202 Bomberos (Fire).....................085 Biblioteca (Library)..................966 692 773 Butano gas..............................966 672 222 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 ALDI...................96 541 11 11 Telefonica..............................1004
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TIMETABLE & ROUTE FOR THE GRAN ALACANT TOURIST TRAIN
Winter Timetable from October 2013
From 16th October 2013 to 31st March 2014 we run from Tuesday to Saturdays from 11:00h to 14:00h. No service on Sundays and Mondays, except on 29th and 30th December 2013, and 5th and 6th January 2014.
Still the best magazine advertising prices in the area. 58
THE GRAN ALACANT SHOPPING BUS
which drops off and picks up, all around Gran Alacant :Mornings start at 09.30 from shopping centre, and every 30 minutes until 13.30 ending also at shopping centre. Afternoon: Shopping centre from 17.30 to 19.00 and finish at shopping centre a 19.00
With the Holidays upon us I would like to share a personal experience with my friends about drinking and driving. As you may know some of us have been known to have brushes with the authorities from time to time on the way home after a "social session" out with friends. Well two days ago I was out for an evening with friends and had several cocktails followed by some rather nice red wine. Feeling jolly I still had the sense to know that I may be slightly over the limit. That's when I did something that I've never done before - I took a cab home. Sure enough on the way home there was a police roadblock but since it was a cab they waved it past. I arrived home safely without incident. This was a real surprise, as I had never driven a cab before, I don't know where I got it and now that it's in my garage I don't know what to do with it. Supplied by Martin Gorfin
LOCAL BUS TIMES SANTA POLA to ALICANTE
ALICANTE to SANTA POLA
SATURDAYS
SATURDAYS
SUNDAYS & HOLIDAYS
SUNDAYS & HOLIDAYS
SANTA POLA to AIRPORT Mondays to fridays
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TILING SPECIALIST (your choice of tiles for the garden or house). All types of
BUILDING WORK undertaken UNDERBUILD CONVERSIONS (you choose what you want. 1, 2, 3 bedrooms or just 1 large room for your own home cinema).
Coral & Serena terrace extensions. Bring your terrace foreward gives more room Auroras & Albas Terrace extensions FROM SMALL TERRACES TO
LARGE EXTENSIONS All work guaranteed! Give SOL a call on 606 818 442 or E-mail solbuilders@hotmail.co.uk