FRE
E
Female Focus Publications serving the English speaking community throughout the Costa Blanca since 1993
Page 2
FF Your healthy magazine
Ask the Optician – Ski Eye Care
www.femalefocusonline.com
Louise Stone, Store Director, Specsavers Opticas Javea We are so lucky to have two lovely ski resorts just an hour’s drive from Valencia, making a day trip to the mountains a great thing to do over the winter. However, please don’t forget that skiing is tough on your eyes! Here are some FAQs about skiing and the eyes to make sure you can enjoy the sun safely on the slopes this season. Q. Why are my eyes more at risk when I’m skiing? A. The atmosphere on the slopes is very clear and the reflection of sunlight on the slopes is very strong. These two factors combine to be potentially damaging to the eyes and could lead to long term effects. Q. How does this affect my eyes? A. Although people know how important it is to keep skin protected from the sun, few realise how damaging UV rays can be to the eyes. The UVB rays can irritate the surface of the eye, causing a painful form of sunburn of the eye (called photokeratitis). You may not even be aware whilst out in the snow, as the effects can take 6-12 hours to develop. Long-term exposure to UVB can cause cataracts and even ocular tumours. Q. How can I protect my eyes whilst out on the slopes? A. All you need is good sunglasses, but make sure you choose the right ones. Always read the label carefully and choose the maximum protection factor available. Remember that eyes will be exposed to high levels of UV even if it’s not sunny. Choosing sunglasses without the right protection could damage the eye by causing the pupil to dilate, increasing the amount of UV light filtering into the eyes, so always keep this in mind when selecting your eyewear. Specsavers Opticas is currently offering free eye tests. There are Specsavers Opticas stores in Calpe, Jávea, Benidorm, La Zenia, Guardamar del Segura and Torrevieja on the Costa Blanca. Find your nearest store www.specsavers.es.
Female Focus January 2019
Page 3
www.femalefocusonline.com
FF Your magazine
Going the Whole Hog
Peter at Costa Blanca Hogs really knows what he is doing. Twice we have had Peter cater for large parties at our house (70+ persons), the catering appeared effortless and we and our guests were very impressed by the delicious food, served so professionally. In fact you may have already tried Peter’s tender pork without even knowing it, because for the past few years Costa Blanca Hogs has been the Food Stall chosen to support the ‘English Tent’ at the annual 3 day Jávea Food Festival. Take it from us, firsthand, the service was excellent, the salads perfect, the bread rolls lovely and fresh, the apple sauce beautiful, and the slow cooked hog roast absolutely delicious with the best crackling you'll ever taste.
Both times we had the most wonderful celebration which Peter made easy and enjoyable. Yum yum yum. Costa Blanca Hogs – perfect for a family get together, wedding, celebration, or for a corporate event - definitely highly recommended. Female Focus’ Claire & Roddy Cunningham. Contact Peter on 603 513 792 or see his advert on this page.
Costa Blanca Focus
www.facebook.com/ FemaleFocus/ Female Focus January 2019
FF Established in 1993
Page 4
www.femalefocusonline.com
Due to work commitments we celebrated Christmas Day on Boxing Day and as little one is only 4 she didn't know any different. Darling daughter worked the night shift and when she got back home at 9am woke up granddaughter with shouts of he's been... to get the response of 'turn off the light mummy'. So much for Christmas excitement.... They all came to ours for Christmas lunch which, even though I say so myself, was the best yet - I would love to take all the credit but Aunt Bessie did help me with various parts of the meal. Slightly gutted that everyone wanted the chocolate pudding rather than the Christmas pudding - will remember that for next year! After filling the little one up with sufficient sugar and e-numbers to last a year, her mother flaked and abandoned us... the imagination and a box of toy cars was a pleasure to watch. Having Alexa was interesting - she bounced between Spanish and English depending on the song little one asked her to play and with microphone (wooden spoon) in hand we did the whole of Disney much to 'Gwandad's' despair.... Hopefully you all had wonderful memory making Lesley times and here's to making many more in 2019. Congratulations to Linda Morrell-Vessy from Calpe who won the 100€ competition last month, by spotting the logo on page 15. For your chance to win 50€ this month, see inside for details of how to enter. Pick up your next issue on 5 February. Deadlines: Editorial & Advertising - 12 noon - 21 January. Front cover photo taken by Ken Taylor. Telephone:- 633 479 031 email: ken@kentaylor.photography Photography website:- www.kentaylor.photography
Female Focus covering from Alicante North and the QF Focus Magazine covering the Alicante South region. To discuss your advertising needs with your local representative contact:-
Gandía to Jávea Roddy 688 815 405 or 96 575 6833 roddy@femalefocusonline.com
Benitachell to Finestrat Alan 689 358 232 alan@femalefocusonline.com
Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055 editor@femalefocusonline.com advertising@femalefocusonline.com classifieds@femalefocusonline.com www.femalefocusonline.com Like and Follow us on Facebook - Costa Blanca Focus https://www.facebook.com/FemaleFocus/ Female Focus Publications are available from over 1000 distribution points throughout the Costa Blanca, making us the largest Free English language magazine publishers by far! Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 5
FF Your local magazine
If you need Health Cover for your Residencia, Look No Further By Claire Johnstone - CJ Insurance, Costa Blanca You might be wondering what Health Insurance has got to do with your Residencia. In fact it has everything to do with your Residencia. In the run up to Brexit, many people are taking the correct advice to register themselves as a Spanish Resident (Residencia). However, in many cases, you will need to show that you have a minimum of 12 months private health care in order to qualify for a Residencia. As many of my customers know, I'm all about caring and customer service which is why I've ensured my clients Residencia medical certificates are ready for their appointments for some time now. And as an exclusive agent for DKV, who in my opinion is simply the best Health Insurance you can get, I have been able to help so many people 'get sorted' before the dreaded Brexit. I represent DKV for many reasons, the coverage and customer support are excellent, it's what I have chosen for my family. On top of the usual things, DKV uniquely offer such extras as 20,000€ of worldwide travel insurance, unlimited coverage annually for prosthetics, well man and woman check ups, sports injuries, accidents at work, road traffic accidents and we now have a digital doctor app! In fact so many people are pleasantly surprised at the cover, it’s really worth calling me to discuss your own needs. And with industry leading rates, DKV is excellent value. I’ve worked in the private health insurance industry providing peace of mind for hundreds of people for 15 years. There are a lot of options out there but for me and my family, only 1 choice!
So, if you're needing a Medical Certificate for your Residencia and need health insurance to qualify, simply call me Claire Johnstone - on 677 646 158 and I'll get the ball rolling and take away this important aspect of Brexit! I cover the whole of the North Costa Blanca and am happy to travel to you if you are unable to come into the office.
Female Focus January 2019
FF We've got the numbers
Page 6
www.femalefocusonline.com
New Year - new start Financial planning is important because you will save money and make money! These are my 4 must dos for this month.
by Steve Iball, Area Manager deVere Spain
1. Tax location Spain or UK you decide! However, if in 2019 you will spend more than 183 days in Spain, you are automatically deemed to be a Spanish tax resident. So, actions you need to do include… • Remove yourself from UK HMRC tax except on rental income in UK • Have all interest paid from bank accounts paid gross • Complete a ‘Renta’ by June 2019 if you were living in Spain in 2018/9 for more than 183 days 2. Complete Modelo 720 on assets outside of Spain worth more than 50,000€ if tax resident in 2018. This needs to be done by 30-3-2019, and via a registered accountant (assessor). 3. Get a realistic return of bank deposit savings and make it tax efficient. ie returns of 4-5 % whilst being tax complaint in Spain. 4. Ensure you have no lost pensions from occupations in the UK. It sounds daft but many people have forgotten about where they worked and if it had a pension. I have had the pleasure of finding lost thousands for many people in 2018, simply enquire and we can find out! Above all, I always advise to plan for the future and making the loss of a loved one easier by reducing the paperwork and hassle after death. It also saves money and ensures your wishes are followed through, so make a Will. What type of Will, Spanish / English, depends on your circumstances, so seek advice! Oh and get advice to plan for post Brexit! I don’t give advice for free, but the cost is to recommend me if you benefited from my advice, so NO money exchanges hands, sounds good, take advantage of my 40 years in financial services and I will save you money! For more information, contact me on 610 822 484 or email steve.iball@devere-spain.es.
Female Focus January 2019
FF Your local magazine
Page 8
Saturday 2 February, Auditori Municipal Ondara - The Teulada – Moraira Lions Present “Chess” with Queen Forever. The Teulada – Moraira Lions are very proud to present “Chess” the best tribute to the legendary band “Queen” here in Spain with their fantastic show “Queen Forever”. This will be a tremendous evening of entertainment dedicated to this iconic band with nonstop Queen Songs all night. The venue is the excellent Auditori Municipal in Ondara, production, sound and lighting will be supplied by Magnum Productions. Tickets are priced at 17.50€ and can be booked by email or telephone on: tmlions.concerts@gmail.com or by calling 96 649 8493. A coach service will be available picking up in Moraira and returning after the show. The cost of coach and show ticket will be 25€, however this must be paid in advance. For a fantastic evening of “Queen” and nothing but “Queen” featuring Charlie Joss and “Chess” please contact the box office, and as we expect this show to be a sellout we advise early reservation. For tickets and information please call 96 649 8493 or email: tmlions.concerts@gmail.com. For information on all our events please call 96 649 9954 / 618 017 201 or email peter_john1@hotmail.com.
Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com My name is Steve Woods and I am a solicitor specialising in claims for asbestos related diseases and I thought I would look at a number of questions that often arise and that make people worried about the possibility of making a claim. My message is, if in doubt ask! I NEVER MADE A CLAIM BEFORE. I understand that making a claim can seem daunting and this is why I always visit my clients and meet them face to face. I can explain the process and I find this reassures them. I come to Spain regularly and so personal visits are not a problem. I CANNOT REMEMBER WHERE I WORKED, OR THE COMPANY I WORKED FOR NO LONGER EXISTS. It is not unusual for companies that traded in the 1960s, for example, to have long since stopped trading. With investigations I can trace insurers who provided cover for these companies and they are obliged to deal with the claims. Even if you are hazy about the exact name of a company or your period of employment with them, I can obtain your work history from HM Revenue & Customs and this provides confirmation of who you worked for all those years ago. I HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH AN ASBESTOS CONDITION BUT I DID NOT WORK WITH ASBESTOS. It is surprising how often, when you start talking about a persons work history, what they remember. Often, it turns out that even if a person did not actually work with asbestos, they worked alongside people who did and therefore came into contact with dust. Another possibility, and a particularly sad one in my experience, is a wife who comes into contact with asbestos from her husband’s work clothes. MY BREATHING PROBLEMS ARE NOT TOO BAD. A lot of people I meet are dismissive of their breathing problems and underestimate how they affect their daily lives. Some people I have seen do not realise there is a time limit for bringing claims and so it is important that investigations are started as soon as possible. Claims for breathing problems caused by exposure to asbestos can be complex but the quicker the claim is started the quicker these issues can be dealt with. So, if you are concerned about your particular situation or have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch. I am happy to talk to you free of charge.
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 9
FF Your legal magazine
The clock is ticking... have you done your non-resident tax? If you have bought property in Spain you are in one of the following three groups:1. Investor, to rent out (not having a Spanish residency card) 2. Holiday home owner (not having a Spanish residency card) 3. Permanent home owner (having a Spanish residency card) If you’re in groups 1 and/or 2… keep reading please!
You are a non-resident and property owner, what taxes should you pay?
Are you a Spanish fiscal resident?
Before we dive into it, there is an important rule you should keep in mind. When property is owned by more than one person, each person will be an independent tax payer who will have to declare separate tax returns. The income tax amount will depend on the use of the property:
You are a Spanish fiscal resident if:You live more than 183 days per calendar year on Spanish territory (and had previously applied for a Spanish residency card). Otherwise, you are a fiscal non-resident. However, both non-resident and resident property owners in Spain are obliged to file annual income tax returns, as the Spanish tax system operates through self-assessment.
A) Notional income tax on properties in private use
What is the Spanish tax year?
Let’s say you were not the owner of the property during the whole year. In this case, you would only pay notional income tax that would apply to the period where you were the actual owner. This same formula would apply if you rent out property. Notional income tax is calculated according to the calendar year – 1st January to the 31st December.
B) Income tax on property which is rented out
The fiscal tax year in Spain begins on the 1st January and ends on the 31st December. Spanish fiscal non-resident annual tax returns are declared in arrears and hence the following year.
How much tax will you have to pay? There are two main categories here: Non-residents in Spain from non-EU member states or nonEEA countries: are required to declare income earned in Spain at a general rate of 24%. Non-resident of an EU member state or EEA country with an effective exchange of tax information with Spain, will be charged a Spanish income tax rate of 19%. In either category, the general rule for fiscal non-residents is that tax is based on their gross Spanish source of notional income (benefit of having an asset), net rental income and on capital gains arising from assets located in Spain.
The rule here is: “non-resident property owners who rent out their property are obliged to declare the total amount received and are taxed over the net income”. Unlike notional income, this kind of tax is declared quarterly as follows: • 1st-20th April (1st quarter) • 1st-20th July (2nd quarter) • 1st-20th October (3rd quarter) • 1st-20th January (4th quarter) Have you got any questions? Please give us a ring at 96 647 1898 or send us an email at admin@sun-lawyers.com. We’ll be waiting to hear from you!
Female Focus January 2019
FF Your community magazine
Page 10
www.femalefocusonline.com
A NEW Year means time for a NEW Room, NEW View or NEW Pool‌ If you are anything like me a NEW YEAR means another attempt at a NEW me and an investment at the spa or gym to smooth out the cracks and freshen up the pallor. M3BT can provide an excellent pamper service on your property for the New Year. From top to bottom we can provide a comprehensive package. From the top we can replace your leaking roof with completely NEW TILES and add some insulation whilst we are up there to protect your home from the summer heat. Working our way down we can surround your home with NEW GUTTERING to harvest the rain water whilst protecting your walls from water ingress. NEW WINDOWS will eliminate those nasty drafts and open up your wonderful view. Or you could add glazing to your terrace to create a lovely NEW ROOM. We can pay special attention to the heart of your home by rejuvenating your kitchen; enhancing the space with the latest, practical gadgets and modern styles creating a NEW KITCHEN space that you and your family will enjoy. There are so many time and money saving devices that can be introduced into your home whilst adding to your comfort. To many people their bathroom is their haven, their retreat and no matter how small the room M3BT can provide you with a NEW BATHROOM. With some new taps water consumption can be reduced and aesthetically we can create the bathroom of your choice whether you want a luxurious wet room or a soothing spa. A fresh coat of paint is not only about looks when it comes to your home as M3BT can insulate your home at the same time with the texture and colour of your choice. So saving money on your bills as well as protecting your home. Our climate on the Costa Blanca enables us to enjoy the outdoors for the majority of the year. The M3BT team can help you optimise your outdoor space with terracing, kitchens or BBQs. To reduce your maintenance cost a pool cover is a worthwhile investment or even a brand NEW POOL. Fancy something NEW this year, why not give us a call on 618 084 156 to chat about your ideas or visit www.m3bt.com.
Female Focus January 2019
FF - www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 12
www.femalefocusonline.com
FitSteps Costa Blanca goes to Blackpool! FitSteps Costa Blanca group of 16 ladies went to FitSteps Christmas party in Blackpool in December 2018. We met the founders of this amazing dance programme - Strictly professionals Ian Waite, Natalie Lowe and Olympic champion swimmer Mark Foster, who were very impressed by the work done by the Spanish branch. It was amazing to dance in the legendary Blackpool Tower which is one of the locations used in Strictly. The ballroom is absolutely stunning with its sprung dancing floor that really does bounce when you dance on it. There were over 300 FitSteppers from the UK, Germany and Spain and we are very proud that our local instructor, Marina Pawley, became a finalist of the competition for the best Instructor in Europe. The ladies enjoyed master classes with FitSteps team and in the evening Ian and Natalie performed a show dance – a passionate Rumba. Why is FitSteps so popular in the UK and in Spain? You can become fit dancing without realising you are exercising. You learn steps from the Ballroom and Latin dances and there is no need for a partner. It is a great way to lose weight, tone your body, become fitter and healthier. Dancing is the ideal way to keep your brain active and to be in a happy mood. FitSteps Costa Blanca have organised some incredible themed events – a musicals night, Chicago night, as well as Halloween and Christmas celebrations and if you look at their Facebook page you can see many videos and photos. FitSteppers are a friendly community that shares the passion for dancing. Fitsteps is the programme for all ages and dance abilities. There are beginners FitSteps classes where they break down the steps and enjoy graceful moves of Waltz, Tango, American Smooth, Quickstep and Latin dances. Fitsteps FAB (For All Bodies) is a low intensity programme which is suitable for beginners and mature people. The moves are easy to follow but you can still learn the moves from Foxtrot, Argentine Tango, Bosa Nova, Flamenco and other beautiful dances. FitSteps Extreme is a high intensity dance fitness programme that includes cardio dances like Jive, Salsa, Samba and ideal for toning leg muscles and bum. Join FitSteps classes in Jávea, Moraira and Benitachell. For more information, visit their Facebook page FitSteps Costa Blanca. Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 13
FF - Your healthy magazine
Author’s debut is entertaining thriller By Jack Troughton
Writer Lynn Keane has published her first novel ‘Absent Minders’ a thriller inspired by a particularly vivid dream. Lynn, who has lived in Altea for over 30 years, had her manuscript read by two friends before sending it off to publishers Author House and was “excited” when it was described as “intriguing” and “nicely written”. “I have always enjoyed writing stories and this year I took the plunge and sent my first one to Author House,” she said. The plot involves the disappearance of a child and the mysterious death of her nanny. The youngster’s mother is a hard-working divorcee, who has been married to a control freak, and has difficulty in coping. She gives her all to move forward but her daughter’s disappearance is always in the forefront of her mind ...years later the daughter is found alive – but how did she vanish and why? Lynn is thrilled to have the novel in print and has already penned a second story ‘The Stonemason’s House’ which she hopes will be published next year, and a third is ‘under construction’. Absent Minders has been printed in a large font to make it easy to read and is available via Amazon, both in Kindle form and hard copy, Barnes and Noble and Author House websites. Priced 10€, it is also available from the author by calling 691 202 307 or email lynnschofieldkeane@gmail.com.
Now open in our new location in Jávea Old Town, Olivia and the team at Charlie&O look forward to welcoming you. See our advert below.
Female Focus January 2019
FF We've got the numbers
Page 14
www.femalefocusonline.com
Bunions Bunions or HAV? The Bunion or Hallux Valgus is a deformity of the foot caused by a deviation of the first toe towards the middle axis of the foot and a deviation of the first metatarsal towards the outer edge of the foot accompanied by irregular bone growth in the first metatarsal head and articular incongruity of the metatarsophalangeal joint. This causes pain due to inflammation of the soft tissues of the area from constant friction against footwear and from the structural and mechanical alteration due to the bone deviation. When is it recommended to operate on bunions? It is recommended to operate on bunions when they are painful, when osteoarthritis appears or the structural deformity affects walking correctly which in turn affects other levels of the locomotor system. It is also advisable to perform surgery in cases in which as a result of the bunion, the toes are deforming like when the second toe appears hammer-like. When a patient wishes to undergo an operation a professional should study each case individually, taking into account the age, health status, lifestyle ... etc. At Portalet Clinic, we will explain in detail and alleviate any worries without compromise. What type of technique is carried out at Clinica Podológica Portalet? We perform minimum incision surgery. As its name suggests, it is done using minimal skin incisions, usually 2 to 4mm. Through these millimetric incisions we can reach the soft tissues and bone, without causing injury to the adjacent tissues. Advantages of Minimal Incision Surgery: - Immediate recovery as the procedure is minimal. - The patient walks away with a post-surgical shoe without crutches or help.
- After just 48 hours the patient can continue life as normal. - Almost painless. - No fixing bolts or needles used. One of the drawbacks of open surgery is the use of fixing materials, with Minimal Incision Surgery fixations are not necessary as the soft tissues themselves, which we have respected, the joint capsule and a light dressing are responsible for this. - Local anesthetic, only affecting the foot, so the dose used is less. - No hemostasia (restriction of blood flow). As the size of the incision is so small, there is little bleeding so there is no need for a tourniquet, thus avoiding all risks of cutting blood flow. - Less risk of infection. The small size of the incisions also decreases the risk of infection. - Barely visible scaring. CLÍNICA PODOLÓGICA PORTALET Experts in foot surgery - Bunions - Hammertoes - Calcaneal Spur - Helomas (Corn) Etc. Other treatments available at our centre:- Removal of corns and calluses - Ingrown toenails - Removal of warts and fungi - Computerised study of the foot and footsteps - Made to measure orthopedic soles - Treatment for Diabetic Foot. C / Portalet 9, 1st floor G, entrance through the Serrella building in front of Mercadona, Calpe (centre). Telephone: 96 583 5245, email: info@calpepodologos.es or visit: www.calpepodologos.es.
Suffering with Bunions? (or other feet problems)
Before
After
Before
After
KEYHOLE FOOT SURGERY The Effective Solution
This non-invasive approach is fast, effective and costs less than you might think. Call us and we’ll get you back on your feet in no time. We also diagnose and treat: Bunions / Hallux Valgus, Claw / Hammer Toes, Taylor’s Bunion, Heel Spur, Metatarsalgia (ball of the foot pain) and Neuroma or Morton’s Toe
Lara Virginia Yáñez Carra www.calpepodologos.es
CLINICA PORTALET
Calle Portalet 9, 1st Floor, Door G • Calpe Tel: 96 583 5245 Email: info@calpepodologos.es Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 15
Living Proof hair products
FF - Your beautiful magazine
U3A Vall del Pop What’s On Programme 18 & 19 January - Benidorm Palace with overnight stay at Palm Beach Hotel [68€]. 7 February – General Meeting. Speaker Jana Petken on Historical writer with many award-winning novels. 7 March – Annual General Meeting. 4 April – General Meeting. Speaker Duncan Campell on Reporter. Highly Recommended. 2 May – General Meeting. Speaker Benjamin Tinker - Chiropractor. 19 - 26 May – Trip to Galicia, 6 days / 5 nights.
Serenity Hair and Wellness salon in Moraira are proud to introduce Living Proof hair products. Fast becoming one of the world leaders in luxury hair care, and endorsed by Jennifer Anniston, Living Proof products are silicone free, paraben free and cruelty free. We know you'll feel the difference after just one wash and will never go back to supermarket bought shampoo again. We've all made the switch and we now use Living Proof with all our hair services. Serenity Hair & Wellness Salon is just outside Moraira (on the coast road to Calpe next to Cascada), see advert below right for details.
For further information on U3A Vall del Pop check our website http://u3avalldelpop.com. The U3A is all about enjoyment and learning, and this is particularly evident in the U3A Vall del Pop, whose members hold their General Assembly generally, fiestas and holidays permitting, on the first Thursday of each month at the Centre Polivalent in Murla and have a diverse range of groups for the interest of the members. harities ups & cg events o r g ll a Calling ur forthcomin to n send yond informatio nline.com a so u c fo le fema e month editor@ the 15th of th on. before r to publicati prio
Female Focus January 2019
FF Your healthy magazine
Page 16
www.femalefocusonline.com
Popular cosmetic procedures Last month we investigated how it is becoming increasingly accepted to give, and to receive, a cosmetic procedure as a Christmas gift. Maybe you received such a gift. Maybe you didn't but wish that you had. Maybe you did, but wish that you hadn’t! Whatever, this month we will look at the most popular types of cosmetic procedure in a little more detail, in order of their popularity. Facial Rejuvenation: Riding high at the top of the list are facial fillers and rejuvenating treatments which can take years off a person’s face, leaving them looking refreshed and revitalised. Injectables such as BOTOX®, Cosmetic and Dysport® can smooth away dynamic lines and wrinkles, while dermal fillers can restore lost volume to deeper lines like the nasolabial folds (laughter lines). Skin treatments like microdermabrasion and chemical peels can help treat complexion problems and dullness, with very little downtime. Breast Enhancement: The statistics show that these are actually the most commonly gifted cosmetic surgery procedure by a spouse or romantic partner, and breast implants are at the top of many holiday wish lists. Silicone is the most popular type of breast implant, but some women may find that saline implants or fat transfer breast augmentation are more suitable for them. Other popular gifting options for breast enhancement surgery include breast reduction and breast lifts. Breast reduction surgery creates a more proportionate look, while a breast lift can rejuvenate your bust line without the need for implants. Liposuction: Coming in close behind facial med spa procedures and breast enhancement, liposuction is something a lot of people choose. Body contouring procedures like lipo can help people get the figure they’ve always wanted, or reclaim the one they used to have, by eliminating stubborn fat deposits that won't respond to diet or exercise. Lipo is ideal for targeting notorious problem spots like muffin tops or love handles, but remember that it's not a weight loss tool. The best lipo results are seen in men and women who are already at or close to their target weight.
Female Focus January 2019
Tummy Tuck: During a tummy tuck, a cosmetic surgeon repairs separated abdominal muscles and removes the excess skin that can cause the stomach to look saggy. This extra skin can make people look bigger than they are, and getting rid of it can be the wonderful final step in someone’s weight loss journey, or provide an option to help women restore a slim waistline after completing their family. For people who want to slim and tone their midsection, a combined tummy tuck and liposuction could be a great answer. Brazilian Butt Lift: When a shapelier behind is what you are after, the Brazilian butt lift can help. The Brazilian butt lift has evolved over the years, and has become a highly effective way to achieve your dream curves. It involves fat grafting from elsewhere on the body to add volume to the buttocks. Cosmetic surgery is a gift that keeps on giving, whether you are receiving it as a gift from someone, or paying for it for yourself. Of course, the most important thing to consider before any cosmetic surgery, gifted or otherwise, is to choose a cosmetic surgeon who is skilled, qualified and experienced, and makes you feel comfortable and confident from your very first visit. In Jávea we have Dr Ignacio Poole, a specialist Surgeon with a Master in Aesthetic Surgery. He is also a certified family doctor/ GP. If there is anything about your appearance that bothers you, however small, then there is an invitation waiting for you. Feel free to call into the clinic and find out about all the different services and procedures - don’t forget that your first consultative visit is completely free. Clinica El Arenal, Av Arenal 2, Jávea. Telephone 96 579 2418, Mon - Fri 10.30am to 1.30pm, email: clinicaelarenal@gmail.com.
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 17
www.femalefocusonline.com
THE GEL BOTTLE COMES TO SPAIN
Love at First Coat......
The GelBottle is the nail fashion that has literally taken the world by storm and is now available officially in Spain for the first time ever. Worn by celebrities including Lily Allen, and loved by nail technicians, The Gel Bottle has so much appeal to both consumers and beauty salons. The GelBottle Inc™ was born with high quality and innovation in mind, offering an incredible array of over 360 unique colours to satisfy everyone’s taste. We develop cutting edge products like Builder In A Bottle™ and GelPot, two revolutionary builder gel systems for both natural nails and extensions. With our different approach we have rapidly grown into an international brand recognised worldwide and are quickly making our way to the forefront of the industry. We’ve learned that the way forward is to set trends, not to follow them. The GelBottle Inc™ gel polishes are rich, highly pigmented, chip-resistant and offer extreme long lasting shine. The good news doesn’t end there because we are also VEGAN, CRUELTY FREE and 10-FREE (our products don’t contain Formaldehyde, Toluene, Dibutyl Phithalate, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor, Ethyl Tosylamide, Xylene, Triphenol Phosphate, Sulfate or Sulphate, Parabens).
Perfect for Salons and Nail Technicians We started out with the knowledge that we had to make The GelBottle attractive to salons and nail technicians. For this reason, we created a large range of colours and finishes to appeal to consumers by offering more choice. We developed a range of products to support the finishing including our base builder, a unique self-levelling soak off builder gel for strengthening, and an extreme shine non-wipe top, so you can be sure to be offering the very best in gel nails available today. We put more product in each bottle thus offering excellent value, allowing you to be profitable and earn a living. We are in the process of building our network of educators and have established a thriving social media presence where you can find training videos, promotional items, and lots of ideas to show to your clients.
FF
To help you get going, we are offering 25% off your first order. Simply visit www.thegelbottleinc.es and set up your account and start shopping. When you get to check out, simply enter ES-LAUNCH in the Promo code box and we’ll take 25% off your first order (min order 100€ excl IVA). Female Focus January 2019
Page 18
FF Your healthy pages
our ARIES After all the festivities you are finding it hard to get back into a routine. You have so many ideas for this coming year but just need to get organised otherwise you will end up with lots of unrealistic and unfinished projects. TAURUS Last year was a shaky year, but with hindsight you can see were the problems came from and so are now able to ensure this year runs more smoothly. Be prepared. GEMINI You know what you want from this year and where you want to be by the end of it. Only you can make this happen - you owe it to yourself so don't let yourself down. CANCER Do you really want to change everything and upset the stability you have in your life right now for a whim. Think things through - the long term consequences of your actions and the reactions of others. LEO Make sure you have a goal to work for or you are going to get stuck straight back into that rut. Book a holiday or spa day - something that you can look forward to. It could be something more practical - as long as you have a goal. VIRGO Make a list of what you want to achieve by the end of the year. This will keep you on track and give you something to work for. It shouldn't be a list of just jobs but also visits, treats and even motivational goals.
Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
oroscope LIBRA Although you are setting off the year at a gallop give others time to get organised as they might not be as prepared as you are. Some may even need your help or advice as to how to make things run more smoothly for themselves and everyone. SCORPIO Money concerns are not a good way to start off the year so make plans now to ensure the rest of the year runs smoothly. If necessary get everyone together so that you are all moving forward together with the same direction. You don't need to make huge changes, but a few little tweaks will make a huge difference. SAGITTARIUS Trusting your instincts has been a good motto recently and has stopped you from being caught out on more than one occasion. Trusting other people has proved more difficult but you need to start trying. CAPRICORN Managing your time more efficiently needs to be the goal this year. It will take time to adjust and to learn to delegate but this will help reduce your stress levels. AQUARIUS Keeping growing this year and moving towards your ultimate goal. Someone looks like they are going to be enjoying the ride alongside you. PISCES Your mind is set on how this year is going to pan out and nothing is going to stop you - well apart from you yourself. Concentrate and don't let yourself stray too far from the end plan.
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 19
FF - your healthy magazine
CHROMAPLEX™ fibre bond system! Hair repair! Rebuilds the bonds in the structure of the hair’s cortex and seals the bonds into place giving the hair more strength and shine!
Fortifies and Strengthens This product comes in 3 stages – Step 1 is the Bond Builder and is added to your colour tint or bleach, professionally, and then applied. This product does not alter the strength of the colour or bleach, it adds an additional strength to the hairs cortex and protects. CHROMAPLEX Bond Builder is designed to provide optimal strengthening and anti-breakage benefits when mixed with any professional colour/bleach treatment. Formulated with Fibre Bond Technology, hair is protected throughout the chemical process resulting in less damage, increased shine and incredible vibrant colour. How to use: Prepare the bleach or your chosen hair colour according to the manufacturer's directions. Add the recommended amount of CHROMAPLEX Bond Builder and mix thoroughly. Protecting and Nurturing Step 2 is the Bond Sealer, this is applied after washing the colour off. CHROMAPLEX Bond Sealer is a protective, nurturing treatment
cream that stabilises the strengthened bonds formed in Step 1. Applied after the colouring/chemical/treatment process to maximise hair strength, Bond Sealer helps seal the hair shaft for smoother, sleeker, more vibrant colour results. How to use: Comb through a small amount of CHROMAPLEX Bond Sealer from roots to tips (more can be added for thicker, longer or more damaged hair). Allow to process for a minimum of 10 minutes. Hair can be cut during this time. Rinse thoroughly, then style as normal. Sustains and Conditions Step 3 is the Bond Sustainer - the maintenance stage. An ultra-conditioning, twice weekly, at home treatment with Fibre Bond Technology, designed to maintain hair strength, sensational shine and suppleness in between salon appointments. Formulated with the active strengthening ingredient found in Steps 1 & 2, Bond Sustainer continues to link bonds within the hair maintaining strong, healthy hair for longer. How to use: Shampoo hair as normal and towel dry. Apply CHROMAPLEX Bond Sustainer from roots to tips, massage in and comb through. Leave for up to 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. KRU will be including this FANTASTIC TREATMENT for FREE with every colour booked in for January! Normal price 15€! To receive this offer please make sure you mention Female Focus. To book an appointment please call KRU on 96 646 3970 or call in to the salon on Avenida del Pla in Jávea. See advert on facing page for more information.
Female Focus January 2019
FF Your community magazine
Page 20
www.femalefocusonline.com
Becoming a Member of Asociacion Amigos Europeos should be YOUR New Year Resolution And here's why... Having written for over 4 years now about the benefits of being a member of this private ambulance service, for the first time in mid December my family ourselves had to summon one of their ambulances in an emergency. Without going into detail about what was medically wrong with a member of our family, let's just say it was very much a potential life or death situation. At 1 o'clock in the morning one phone call to the 24hr emergency number, simply quoting our family membership number, was enough to get an ambulance alerted and speeding on its way to us. No need to speak in Spanish, no need to give directions, no need to worry about any other questions. All we had to do was quote our membership number. The ambulance crew already knew where to come, because our address and the route to our house was already pre-programmed into their system. This made a potentially stressful and frustrating situation very much easier indeed, and we knew immediately that the ambulance was on its way. Within just a few minutes the ambulance arrived at our house, and the patient was on the way to hospital. Where we are pleased to report our family member received very good care, and he came out of hospital a week later. So take it from us, we have personally tried and tested the service provided by the AAEdJ and it is absolutely second to none. PLEASE DON'T LEAVE IT TOO LATE. You never know when you might need their service. Becoming a member is incredibly simple, just telephone Laure Bolufer the Registration Manager, or call in and see her at their office. And at just €50 for a whole year for the whole family, honestly, I truly believe it would be a silly thing for anyone not to have their wonderful service. Previously, prior to this emergency I could only write about other AAEdJ members’ experiences second hand from their experiences told to me, and how grateful they were to be members. Now I can write from a personal point of view, and I can absolutely tell you that I would never be without this ambulance cover for my family and me. So please do yourself and your family the biggest of favours and start 2019 off with the very sensible act of registering with the AAEdJ right now. Their fleet of ambulances covers most of the Marina Alta, including most of the inland areas. Like us you never know when you may need them, but you will be Oh so relieved if ever you do. Written by Roddy Cunningham of Female Focus magazine. January 2019. Addendum: Last month Female Focus highlighted the appeal by the Asociacion Amigos Europeos de Javea to kit out their new ambulance. In the article we wrote that the new ambulance had arrived. In fact, this is not correct, the new ambulance has not yet been purchased – hence the appeal for financial help to be able to purchase the vehicle itself, and all the equipment that goes into creating the state of the art ambulance that it will become.
Denia Rock Choir charity concert success It was with great pleasure members of Denia Rock Choir presented Guardian Ángels charity president Gill Somers with a cheque for 800€. The money was raised from their charity concert which was held at Denia Casa de Cultura on 7 December. The concert was a mix of songs from as early as 1969 (Tom Jones) to present day (Walk the Moon)! Then on to Christmas songs from Brenda Lee, The Ronettes amongst others ending with a resounding rendition of Rudolf! The concert was a great success enjoyed by all choir and audience alike! This resulted in a fabulous collection from the audience who gave very generously! Denia Rock Choir were very busy at the end of last year also singing for Jávea U3A at the Parador and again at the Casa de Cultura for the Denia branch of the U3A. As we head into a new year Denia Rock Choir would like to thank everyone for their support and wish them all the very best for 2019! Female Focus January 2019
Page 21
www.femalefocusonline.com
FF - Your community magazine
Who Doesn’t Want a Fresh and Natural Look? By Dr Myriam Vroomen, Skinklinnik Altea
Aesthetic treatment used to be a bit taboo, but to be honest, treatments have come such a long way in the past 10 years that it’s almost impossible to see whether one of our clients has actually had aesthetic treatment. I’ve always approached aesthetics with the philosophy of striving to ensure your personality continues to shine through a lasting natural appearance. Sometimes small changes can actually make a big difference boosting your personality and self-confidence. And at Skinklinnik Altea, we use the latest and highest quality products to reveal a younger looking version of yourself. We offer treatments from head to toe to suit your individual needs. These treatments include: injectables (botox), thread-lifting, blepharoplasty, body contouring, cellulite laser treatment, dermatology and skin rejuvenation, as well as a responsible weight loss program and the extremely successful hyaluronic acid injections in the joints for osteoarthritis – to name a few! I am a fully trained and qualified Doctor licenced to carry out all procedures. As a caring person, I choose an exclusive range of organic skincare products (Cetia Flores, Vetia Mare and Vinoderm). It’s what I use so I am confident of its quality and effect. All products are CE certified for quality and safety. Most women start thinking about aesthetics when they look in the mirror and see one too many wrinkles. Looking great doesn’t always mean eliminating every wrinkle but getting the right balance to give you a fresh and above all a natural look! It can be quite nervewracking if you’ve not explored aesthetics before, but don’t worry. We take the time to welcome you into our modern, airy clinic and listen to what it is you want to achieve. We then discuss various options and when you feel comfortable, we’ll provide a quotation and as much other information you need to make an informed decision whether to go ahead. To put it simply, we want you to feel 100% confident of your decision. Skinklinnik can be found on the N332 in La Olla, just 1 Km North of Altea town centre. There is ample parking and privacy to ensure you enjoy a stress free consultation. To make an appointment, just call me, Dr Myriam Vroomen on 684 098 468 or email info@skinklinnik.com. I look forward to welcoming you to Skinklinnik!
PLASTIC
KILLS
WILDLIFE
Thousands of animals and birds die needlessly each year. Let's all try and make changes. Female Focus January 2019
FF Your community magazine
Page 22
Journalist and broadcaster Jack Troughton plays ‘Johnny Foreigner’ and casts an eye over Spain and focuses on stories that serve as a gentle reminder he remains an Englishman abroad. We Three Kings of Orient are In days of yore - that’s a long time ago, apparently - there really were celebrations stretching across the 12 days of Christmas; wow! Think of the panic bread buying in ye olde supermarket, endless goose, venison and boar sarnies, and...ouch!... the lack of yet to be invented ‘plink plink fizz’ for hangovers for those who take too much mead and ale on board. In Spain, things are much more civilised and three cheers for Three Kings; a really cosy family holiday and a chance to get the glad rags on again on 6 January after a visit from one of their majesties and, at least for the youngsters, another generous dollop of loot. Traditionally it was the Kings rather than Santa who magically brought the pressies; well, we want myrrh (sorry, still a few cracker jokes hanging around)! The night before, the evening of 5 January, across Spain there are parades great and small depending on the size of city or town. Great fun they are too and one of the first entries in the new Troughton diary every year – in Jávea two years ago, the Paw Patrol even turned up (nope, no idea either; but big news for young people of a certain age – there was Spotty the Dog but not the one from the Woodentops) ...and the real living and breathing animals on parade are much more entertaining, especially the flock of geese that survived Christmas. So you want a resolution
How many turning the pages of Female Focus made a New Year’s resolution? How many are still sticking with the promise to themselves? Happy New Year everyone! As always your correspondent has undertaken to get his stories in nice and early to earn Brownie points (as if that’s going to happen). Spain, however, is obviously struggling with its resolutions across the country and has been since 2005. Smoking is the vice that everyone resolves to give up as they gulp down grapes on New Year’s Eve. Is it working? No, because the number of smokers is actually going up! Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com Back in 2005, Spain introduced its first round of anti-smoking laws. People will remember how smaller restaurants and bars could actually choose whether they would allow the dreaded weed to be consumed on the premises – the rules were made even tougher in 2010 to ban smoking from all closed public places. New figures show 34% of Spaniards between the ages of 15 and 64 smoke cigarettes every day; back in 2005 it was 32.8%. The biggest drop in tobacco consumption was measured a year after the laws got tough – falling from 30.8% to 29.6%. It is a situation that has the department of health in a tizz. Ministers are worried the laws are not being enforced – and have refused to reject or confirm new laws will ban fags in cars and homes where minors are present. Actually it is both the increasing numbers of young people taking up the habit and women lighting up that has the government looking at new advertising to encourage these groups to stub ‘em out. Seasonal choc horror Feeling guilty about the Christmas chocolate feast? Thanks to consumer group Which? there is actually a reason to feel a little bit worse about the sweet-toothed habit ...and it’s nothing to do with thinking of those extra pounds and thoughts of a quick-fix diet. Packaging around the treats can make up half of their weight and there’s a lot of it that cannot be recycled, which means Sir David Attenborough could soon be on the case. Investigators discovered one of the worst for excess was Ferrero Rocher – no wonder the ambassadors choose not to really spoil their guests anymore. Which? discovered as much as 42% of the total weight of the Ferrero Rocher collection tray was packaging and only 11% was recyclable – the manufacturer said the wrapping was needed to protect the muchloved product, and pointed out “local infrastructure” in the UK did not allow it to go through a recycle process. Second and third in the league were Thornton’s Continental Selections with 29.4% of the weight just packaging and Cadbury’s Milk Tray with 22.6% - but both use mostly recyclable materials. Most environmentally friendly was Lindt’s Lindor Mix; it has just 11.5% of its weight as packaging and the only part unable to be recycled were the individual wrappers. Television advertising is now turning to holidays ...and then it’s the turn of the really heavily packaged chocolates season that comes along round Easter time (but hit the shelves much earlier!).
Page 23
www.femalefocusonline.com
Your informative magazine
Masala Chai – Indian Tea Masala chai is flavoured tea and Indians love their tea – milky, spicy and sweet! It is warming and comforting; a hug in a mug! I remember as a five year old visiting India; sitting with my cousins outside on the veranda early in the morning nursing little glasses of warm, thick, milky tea the colour of rich caramel with the smell wafting around us. Spices used vary from household to household, in terms of tea some will only use loose leaf while others prefer tea bags but both work well, as long as the tea is boiled for long enough to impart the taste. Ingredients
TIP: Works well with most teas; decaffeinated, green and white.
4 mugs of water 2 teaspoons fennel seeds 5 cardamom pods (split) ½ teaspoon ground ginger 1 cinnamon stick 2 teabags/ black tea leaves 1 mug of cold milk 2-3 teaspoons sugar optional
The Spice Sisters run Indian cookery classes in Spain and UK. Please get in touch for further information.
Time: 10 minutes Makes/Serves 4
Email; keepcalm@curryoncooking.com https://www.facebook.com/Curryoncooking/ www.curryoncooking.com Curry on Cooking kits can be purchased online and include:
Recipe In a milk pan, add the water, tea/ tea bags, fennel, cardamom ginger and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the cold milk and bring back to the boil. Sieve and serve. Sweeten to taste.
Female Focus January 2019
Page 24 www.femalefocusonline.com not racially abuse Sterling and that he was ashamed about his behaviour ...it was that he got caught up in the moment at a football match where tension and excitement can run hand in hand, was his rational for his behaviour. As an individual I understand that emotions can and do run high at football What a start to a new year. matches ...I myself have been on both the receiving and giving end Been sitting here thinking about what I would carry on about in of emotional outbursts at sporting events and thus I just wonder the first QF Focus magazine of the new year ...2019 as you are all at the psychology of abuse and racism. Is it a racist act if people aware is a crucial year in the history of what us British currently of differing races argue using industrial language that does not refer to as the United Kingdom. Scotland, Wales and Northern mention race or colour? Can one individual tell another individual Ireland along with England all politically aligned within the of a different race or colour to "Do One" as it were without being brotherly love fest that is intended to promote good will and peace accused of being a racist? As I was thinking about where I could to all men (and women) who reside within the boundaries of the do some research etc on this theme another incident in the realm land of milk and honey where the streets are paved with gold and of what is and what is not abuse etc came into play. This incident everyone starts the day with a hearty "good morning". In this far concerned football fans singing songs that contained anti semitic off place the only thing that is guaranteed to cause an upset is the themes ...Put simply can you be accused of being anti something if ignorance that comes from putting the milk into the tea cup before the something you are commenting on or singing about is repeated the tea has been poured ...this infraction of the norm however can on a regular basis by the very group of people you were aiming be easily be cured by a simple lesson in "how to make and pour your song at. In this case the song was aimed at supporters of the perfect cuppa"...Now that I have got that off my chest so to Tottenham Hotspurs (Spurs) who on a regular basis seem to relish speak, what on earth could I write about that would interest you the opportunity to sing anti semitic songs about themselves ...if my Dear Reader. they open the door so to speak can anyone just walk through it. Well I suppose that I could mention the complete and utter balls Heavy stuff for the first View of this year I admit...but I find it up that is the mishandled and shambolic attempt by a now "dead interesting, although also baffling. in the water" Prime Minister to create a favourable deal with the European Union that would facilitate Britain leaving the EU. Do you remember when we the British people were told - They (the Germans) will come running to sell us their posh cars! Do you remember when the then Secretary of State for exiting the EU said "This will be the easiest deal in history" ...Several Secretaries of State later we had the penultimate incumbent stating "I never Jaguar Enthusiasts Club members JEC-Costa Blanca realised how busy the port of Dover got with imported goods" held their Christmas gala night with live entertainment, ...and to this the falsehoods of the XXX millions of pounds each when they gathered together to celebrate with a week going to the NHS ...the nonsense about millions of Turks dinner dance at the waiting to pour into Britain and, my favourite, that they - the EU Parador hotel of are about to take our electric kettles and toasters away! That last Jávea. pearl came from Mr Hanner an MEP (oh yes he takes their money) The evening started who now finds himself with a bill of several hundred thousand with a cava reception pounds for spending EU money in inappropriate ways. As if this and being welcomed total shambles could not get any worse the Government finds itself by the club president held in contempt by its own House of Commons ...the ruling party Michael Brook who called for the Prime minister to face a vote of NO Confidence ...a thanked everyone vote at which a third of her MPs voted against her and the majority for attending, and also for everything that they had achieved who voted for her were nearly all, to a man and woman, in the pay together as a club in such a short time, with their club members of the Government as extras over and above the salary they draw being more than doubled since their previous Christmas party as an MP. As I type news has been released that Brits visiting the last year. EU after Brexit will require a visa ...so if Brits need a visa you can Then throughout their meal they were entertained by the be sure that Europeans will also need a visa to visit Britain ...where does that leave us people who live in Europe and were not allowed duo “THE CROONERS”, half of which is made up of to vote I wonder. Will we get caught "piggy in the middle" and JEC member Paul Venables. The lovely Maria Warren, a have to pay to visit the land of our birth. Enough of this I suppose professional singer, also wowed with her beautiful voice ...I like everyone else will just have to wait and see. But I do not leaving everyone thrilled by her performance. think this will end well. Sadly Mr Graham Searle from the head office of JEC England Racism and Tribalism. was unable to attend so Mr John Brewster made a speech on behalf of Mr Searle as his stand in. Brenda Pike and Dennis Wilson Interested in the incident at Stamford Bridge where Rahim Sterling helped throughout the night including organising the raffle. the Manchester City footballer said that he was subjected to racist The evening continued with dancing as Paul played the sax, abuse ...this abuse it was alleged came from a small section of the old time swing style, making it a wonderful and enjoyable crowd and occurred as he, Sterling, attempted to pick the ball up occasion. and return it to play. Now my interest is not in whether Sterling For more information on JEC Costa Blanca please visit was abused ...I think it is obvious that abuse was directed at him https://jec.org.uk/spain-costablanca or email Michael Brook: ...this is clear from the TV cameras ...no, my interest is in whether mikebikejec@gmail.com. abuse in itself is a racist act. One of the people who shouted at Sterling is on record as saying " I called him (Sterling) a Manc xxxx ...incidently the person concerned was at pains to say he did Facebook - Costa Blanca Focus
w
A View From The South
JEC Costa Blanca Christmas Gala Night
Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 25
FF - Your magazine
Welcome 2019! We have been waiting for you! The official countdown can now begin for our celebratory 10th edition of the one and only truly inspirational LIFESTYLE event here on the Costas -that is the HOMES GARDENS & LIFESTYLE SHOW. With lots of New Year sparkle and shine it will be packed full of fun, products and services to see, try, touch, taste, and buy. Packed full of information, inspiration, fun, feature concepts, talks and demonstrations, plus our new style Art Gallery and with a more than a mouth-watering line up of cooking demonstrations! We are really cooking up this yearly awesome event for YOU to enjoy! Put the dates in your new diary Friday 5 and Saturday 6 April to join us at the stunning 5* Villa Gadea Hotel in Altea, on the N332 and exit 64 off the AP7 motorway………….here is a taster of what’s to come! FREE CARICATURES! For our Show visitors. You’ll be DRAWN to this FREE fun feature attraction to celebrate our 10th edition of the Show. Our Show Caricaturist Hermes Boj, proudly being sponsored by Avalon, is on hand to draw out your fun characteristics! For a light hearted take on your facial character, and a memorable experience to take away with you, frame and keep. Avalon are also on hand to meet and greet you with a little drink and a nibble whilst you enjoy watching the caricaturist in action, whilst waiting to be drawn yourself! Make your way to Stand No. 60 in Salon Olivos for an entertaining interlude! New for 2019 Art Competition/ Gallery ‘ON THE ROCKS’ This feature attraction is returning for our 10th edition! With a unique twist, we have implemented a theme! ON THE ROCKS! You can enjoy browsing the entries by local artists and seeing their interpretation, or take on the theme… On the Rocks! The Art Gallery will be located in the corridor outside Salon Mediterraneo - enjoy the unique artwork and vote for your favourite interpretation! This ‘Artwork’ Competition is open to any artist to enter one piece of art work in the form of: an original painting, drawing, photograph, sculpture or arrangement Representing the theme ‘On The Rocks’ use your creative imagination and artistic talents to interpret and express the 2019 theme! Email gina@gmpromotions.es for your entry form to be registered into the Competition to be part of the Art Gallery. 1st place prize 50€, certificate and cava 2nd place prize 25€, certificate and cava You may price your artwork for sale - Painting/ drawing/ photo (max size 32” x 26” all to be displayed on artists own easel - Sculptures/arrangement sizes to be advised on entry forms. Next month we will be revealing more of the Show’s feature attractions, but for now……… THE SHOW’S COOKING DEMOS are nearly complete - we will be revealing our line-up of Show Chefs early in the new year, but a sneak preview for now…………get ready to be cooked for and entertained by the singing chef, the bouncing chef, the MasterChef chef, the Indian chef and the UK Chef…………..all will be revealed soon! Watch this space for our next update! THE TAPAS TRAIL is back! And the Spring 2019 line up of participating chefs and restaurants is beyond mouth-watering! Delicious, tempting taster tapas are again being offered to you for FREE on the Tapa Trail as you follow the trail and make your way round the Show, being guided by the Tapa Trail Card……. Stop at each Tapa station to get your stamp and enjoy a FREE Tapa and find out more about our sponsoring businesses and restaurants. Watch this space as we unwrap our restaurants very soon! THE VIP COMPETITION will also be launched right here in the Female Focus Publications. A fantastic package of prizes to be won and tickets for VIP treatment at the Show………. pick up your copy next month and enter for your chance to win………. Talking of winning, our Show Star Prize will also feature in next month’s edition! There is still time to book your stand and join us to promote your products and services. See contact details below for stand availability. There really is so much to see, do and enjoy …. Let us entertain you and welcome you to our 10th edition of the Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show! See www.gmpromotions.es or Facebook HomesGardensandLifestyleShow email gina@gmpromotions.es or call 695 399 841.
Female Focus January 2019
FF Your magazine
Page 26
www.femalefocusonline.com
Happy Freuds The Happy Frueds are a youthful band from Jávea who, since their start chose their own path, somewhere in no man’s land here in our region. Much of the music in the area is about entertainment and as such, the safest route for bands is to provide hits and music people recognise. The Spanish music scene on the other hand, in regard to Rock, is often quite a lot like punk. Freuds, with their first original album just about to be released, have spent the last 3 years playing original material in combination with rearrangements of other artists’ songs. Covers in a way but far from the top-10 selections. With influences ranging from jazz to folk, from hard rock to prog, we can look forward to an eclectic mix of sounds with the upcoming album. While some songs like the Irish folk tune, Background Noise have proven very successful in this region, some of the upcoming tracks are more an acquired taste and less directed to the typical venues around here. Sticking to their guns, they’ve developed an authentic sound which in turn has created a following everywhere from Hong Kong to Australia, from the UK to the USA. As a matter of fact, most of the band’s listeners are, by a wide margin, from outside Spain. They’ve so far been featured on over 20 FM stations in the UK. In December 2018, the RELIX magazine in the US, reaching in excess of 400.000 readers, featured Happy Freuds not only with an article but also included their sampler CD, a spot given to the band after being selected out of 4000 bands presented on Jango Radio. For more information and updates visit their Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/HappyFreuds or their website http://www.happyfreuds.com.
Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 27
FF Your magazine
WASPI …..’Women Against State Pension Inequality’ … International Group
Correct as of November 2018 Waspi is a Campaign Group that represents 3.8million 1950’s born British women at home and overseas who have been negatively impacted by the lack of notification by successive Governments of the increases to their State Pension Age (SPA). This group of women has had up to 6 years added to their State which many of them were ill-prepared and to which they could not Pension Age (SPA) with little or no notice so have been left with reasonably have expected to adjust with no notice’. inadequate time to make financial and work preparations for such a Summary: life impacting change. Waspi International specifically campaigns On Tuesday 6 November 2018 a landmark was reached when to ensure the 1,000s of 1950s born women living overseas do not retirement age for men and women was equalised at 65, (moving get ‘forgotten’ when any future solution to this grave injustice is to 66 by 2020). However, the fact that men and women are now discussed and agreed with the UK Government. equal in the age they retire makes little or no difference to the The reality of living with this change for 1950s women in the problems that women born in the 1950s face as they approach retirement. UK and Overseas For thousands of 1950s women retirement plans have been On 22 November 2018 a further debate on this issue took place at shattered, savings gone, and with ageism still rife in the workplace, Westminster Hall in London. Scottish National Party MP Patricia a great many of these women are now in dire straits financially. Gibson spoke of the ‘weight of despair, the burning sense of Just as in the UK, 1950s British women living overseas who had injustice and the genuine bewilderment felt by women who, by planned and saved for their retirement are now living on dwindling sheer bad luck, were born in the 1950s and therefore became fair limited savings until they reach State Pension Age. They tell game to be robbed, mugged and made victims of theft of the most stories of the shock and worry they have experienced: ‘I am just cruel and callous kind’. surviving. I was widowed four years ago, then at 60 found myself Waspi will continue to campaign to achieve fair transitional State with no state pension, no widow’s pension, and no income. I can Pension arrangements for all British women born in the 1950s only just survive and am reduced to do menial cleaning jobs’. affected by the changes to State Pension Law (1995/2011 Acts). 1950s women who live overseas have no access to working age This translates into a ‘bridging pension’ to provide an income until women reach their new State Pension age – not means tested – benefits, job seekers benefits or disability benefits. Irreversible decisions have been made in the expectation of and compensation for financial losses for those women who have receiving the State Pension at 60. For the women who have moved already reached their State Pension Age. The Waspi Campaign is overseas they now find that they have no health cover (this is not asking for the State Pension Age to revert back to 60. particularly true in the EU where the existing reciprocal Health Waspi International is run by ‘volunteers’ and is administered Cover deal has always meant that State Pensioners would receive in France. We have ladies from over 30 countries in our Group and would like to encourage all 1950s born ladies living in free health cover). The vast majority of 1950s born women have worked and Spain to join our active campaigning at our Facebook Group: contributed to society since leaving school, many of them at the www.facebook.com/groups/Francewaspi. age of 15. They have been the bedrock of society often managing a full time job, bringing up a family and at times caring for and helping elderly relatives. They want to enjoy the retirement they have worked for and looked forward to. ‘I have been robbed. I’ve been left vulnerable at a time in my life when I thought I had worked hard and long enough to qualify for the tiny cushion of a pension’. Hardship, Poverty and an Infringement of 1950's Human Rights George Osborne, the then Chancellor of the Exchequer in 2011 when the most recent additional extension to pension age was made, boasted that speeding up women’s pension age was such a huge saving to the Treasury that it dwarfed almost anything else. The travesty of this situation is that the government do not seem to care. They have completely turned a blind eye to the reality of the plight of 1950s born women. However, a large number of UK MPs across all political parties support the Waspi campaign. Many trades unions also recognise that wrong has been done. There have been 8 debates in Parliament, along with protests, TV and Press exposure; however, to date, our voices have gone unheard with those in Government who have the power to change this appalling situation. United Nations Recognition After his visit to the UK in November 2018, Philip Alston, the UN’s Special Rapporteur showed the number of pensioners living in poverty in the UK had risen by 300,000 to 16% in the four years to 2016/17. Mr Alston said: ‘As was made clear to me in a number of submissions and through powerful testimony, a group of women born in the 1950s have been particularly impacted by an abrupt and poorly phased in change in the State Pension Age from 60 to 66. The impact of the changes to pensionable age is such as to severely penalise those who happen to be on the cusp of retirement and who had well-founded expectations of entering the next phase of their lives, rather than being plunged back into a workforce for Female Focus January 2019
FF - Your community magazine
Page 28
www.femalefocusonline.com
Winter tips for your pets
With Winter upon us even though it is not as cold as in the UK, we also see some cold days and even chillier nights. Winter is a cosy time for sitting by fires. However avoiding the cold isn't as easy for our pets and can be a very challenging time for them as they are faced with possible flea infestations, arthritis and general discomfort with the change of season. That is why it's so important that pet owners are aware of the problems that may arise and the precautions that they will need to put in place. These Winter tips will help your pet stay happy, warm and safe this winter. 1: Treat your pet for fleas all year round As the temperature drops many owners believe that fleas die off and using flea control is no longer necessary. This is a common misconception as a warm heated home provides the ideal environment for fleas to breed and it is crucial that flea control is a year round commitment. Pets should be treated every month to ensure they remain protected 365 days a year. 2: Provide your pet with extra warmth When we start to feel the cold we put on extra layers - we wear jumpers and socks, and if it's really cold, we put on gloves and a hat. We also make sure that our kids are warm and cover them up with extra layers of clothes - but what do we do for our pets? Many pets are just not suited to the cooler weather and like us, will be a lot more comfortable in a warm winter coat that can protect them from the elements. 3: Moderate your pets food intake Just like humans, pets use energy to create body heat, and in winter may require extra calories to maintain a comfortable warmth. This means that you may need to increase the size of your pet's meals by a small amount to help them to stay healthy. It is important not to overdo it though as this may make it hard for them to lose the weight in the warmer months. 4: Be aware of signs of arthritis As pets get older they become more susceptible to the effects of arthritis and in the colder months of winter they may begin to show early signs of onset. If your pet is having trouble getting up or laying down, climbing the stairs, or has started to snap or cry when picked up, you should visit your veterinarian for advice. There are many new arthritis treatments now available including over-the-counter supplements although in severe cases veterinarians may need to prescribe antiinflammatory drugs for your pet. Remember, NEVER give your pet human prescription medication or over-the-counter medications without consulting your HELGA, female crossbreed, DOB 06.13 – 55 cm veterinarian first! She is an active dog that could very well become 5: Be cautious of winter hiding spots a good guard dog in a garden. She does not have Many pets - cats in particular - can become extremely crafty in their problems with other female dogs and she could search for warmth, and can turn every day household objects such easily be trained as she is intelligent. But be aware of the fact as a warm car engine, clothes-dryer or fireplace into a perfectly that if you will keep her in a house she would also appreciate snug sleeping spot. Pet owners should be vigilant in the colder your sofa. For more info call 618 754 635. www.apasa.eu. weather to make sure that they know where their pets are before starting their car's engine or closing the door and turning the dryer Bibi is about a year old, a calm girl who is very good on. on the lead. She loves strokes and cuddles and Imarco is one of many new lovely kittens. Shelter open every Sunday 10am - 12pm or call Luisa 648 100 629. Aldea Felina Denia Cat Protection League. For information on other animals please visit www.aldeafelina.es. Visit our 2nd hand charity shop on Ave de Jaime I 23, 03779 Els Poblets. Gordi is a real fun loving happy dog. Great with other dogs, male and female, Gordi makes friends wherever he goes. He loves his walks and is great on the lead. Contact Moira on 654 616 043 or moiralevy@hotmail.com. APROP, Pego. LUZ, young small podenca rescued from the killing station. Shy but affectionate. We are currently nursing her back to health, but people interested in adopting or fostering a podenco are welcome to ask for information. Please find us on Facebook: Tanamera Rescue.
is very affectionate. She would suit a household with a mature person or a couple. Bibi is spayed, vaccinated and tested free from Mediterranean diseases. To meet her please call 657 689 567, email akirashelter@gmail.com. Facebook: Akira Benissa Dog Sanctuary. www.akira-animals.com.
Bambina. Mare, age 10 searching for a new home. Sadly returned to APAC after her adoption fell through due to family circumstances - no fault of her own. Quite a strong character and in need of an experienced rider. Email: apacprotectora@gmail.com Website: www.apac-cv.com. Dina is a lovely girl, a pointer aged 4 years. She is good with other dogs and cats, gets on with children and is very sweet natured. Tel: 650 304 746 email: p.e.p.a.animalcharity@gmail.com.
Pet Charity Advert Spaces Sponsored by Dragon Insurance..... For ALL your Pet Insurance Needs Dragon Insurance · We Insure just about anything · 96 649 3762 · www.dragoninsure.com Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 29
FF - Your magazine
Holzhandel Vergel is a well known timber merchant, established for over 14 years, dedicated to the sale of timber, plywood, gypsum board, OSB and the construction of wooden structures. Their products are not just for trade professionals; they are the perfect partner for you in the supply and measuring of wood for wooden houses, carports, animal shelters, porches, decking, fencing and the like. They also offer sales and construction of pergolas, roof structures, terrace shades, bungalows and saunas. Birch Firewood Right now, Holzhandel Vergel has taken delivery of a vast amount of birch firewood, for these cold nights. Birch is a wonderful firewood mainly because of the lovely smell given off during burning, but also because it is a heavy wood but not too heavy. So whilst it burns for a long time, has a good fuel value, is a good fire starter and gets going quickly, it is not too heavy to carry. Find HOLZHANDEL VERGEL at Avenida Valencia 49, Poligono Industrial 03770 El Vergel, telephone 96 575 1299, mobile 639 525 119 and email holzhandelvergel@gmail.com.
Female Focus January 2019
Page 30
FF We've got the numbers
www.femalefocusonline.com
New Year New Garden Happy New Year - well it’s a www.charlesworthgardens.com new year and there are always lots of things to think about and plan in the garden. I always think that once you have got Christmas out of the way and the garden may be looking a little untidy after the Autumnal weather, it is a nice detox to get in the garden and crack on with a few little jobs and it’s a great way to burn off those excess calories gained over the festive period. It’s also the best opportunity to start to think about how you might want to change your garden, maybe a small border looks a little empty and could do with some plants, or perhaps you don’t feel you get the most of your garden area next to your pool. Maybe that empty corner at the back of the garden would be the perfect space to build your dream Summer kitchen, to enjoy and entertain friends and family during the warmer months. No matter what you decide to do Charlesworth Gardens can help you.
&
continued on next page
Female Focus January 2019
Page 31 www.femalefocusonline.com We supply plants direct to our customer at cheaper rates than the garden centres, we can design and create whole or part spaces within your garden and we can build the most stunning garden spaces and summer kitchens to enrich your life.
FF - House & Home
Charlesworth Gardens are also the Costa Blanca’s most established artificial grass supplier, we’ve been installing and supplying artificial grass for 13 years and we have a large range of Spanish made artificial grass via our sister company Artificial-Grass-Spain. If you want to simplify your garden by having artificial grass then you really need to speak to us for the best quality grass and finish. Charlesworth Gardens are here for you from supplying a singular plant, to creating a planting plan and supplying the plants for a whole garden. To change those grotty little spaces and integrating them into your whole garden space. When you think about anything in the garden, think, Charlesworth Gardens. You can check out our work and contact us via our websites listed below. Next month we will run through your gardening tips to look after your garden during the cold spells.
For more information please give us a call on 696 283 704, email info@charlesworthgardens.com or visit www.charlesworthgardens.com, www.artificial-grass-spain.com and www.floresgardencentre.com.
START YOUR DAY WITH A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
QUALITY BEDS & BED LINEN FROM BUDGET TO LUXURY All British sizes available • Styles to suit all pockets FREE assembly, caster cups & delivery* FREE disposal of your old bed C.C. Byblos Local 8, Ctra. Calpe-Moraira, Los Pinos 1K (Coast Road) Calpe Tel: 96 583 6814 Email: info@thebedcentre.com www.thebedcentre.com Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 10am - 5pm Saturday: 10am - 1.30pm
*FREE DELIVERY from GANDIA to ALICANTE Female Focus January 2019
Page 32
FF - House & Home
www.femalefocusonline.com
What’s new for 2019?
Wow, so what happened to 2018? It seems it had only just begun and it was already the Summer and now here I am writing my year end / New Year editorial researching what’s new in the world of interiors for 2019. Scary! So if you like to keep up with trends, even if you decide not to change your entire home décor to follow suit, read on to find out what’s hot for the New Year. Colour of the Year Each year the fashion and interiors industry is influenced by the Pantone Colour of the Year, a colour chosen by the Pantone Institute as being THE on trend colour. 2018 was UltraViolet with shades of the deep purple popping up everywhere. This year they have opted for a more natural colour, Living Coral. They state it as “An animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone that energises and enlivens with a softer edge”. It’s certainly a warmer version of the 1970s coral colour that I remember dominating the market back then and as such an easier colour to introduce into our homes. Pairing it with coordinating rich reds, flamingo oranges and deep brown hues brings a feeling of depth and luxury, whereas mixing with cool greys adds a warmth to an otherwise cool scheme. The daring amongst us will mix it with strong jades, teal or turquoise to create a truly eye catching scheme, whereas simply adding it as a pop of colour in a cushion or rug will add a fun dynamic element to any scheme.
all key pieces you can introduce to reference the trend.
Matt Black is the New Grey Another colour dominating our home design this year will be matt black. We’ve already seen its comeback in funky and industrial looking lighting but expect to see it in bold, high-contrast designs as matt black moves from fashion and beauty into homewares and interiors. Seating, home décor objects and sideboards are
Gold, Gold and More Gold Metallic finishes have featured strongly over the last few years with the cool feel of steel being pushed aside by warm copper and bronze and this year is no exception with strong influences of gold being our new metallic finish. However, this year gold takes on new forms with gold patinas, black gold and bright golds being paired with raw natural finishes and highend appliances; maybe gold has never looked so good. Art Deco – The new Mid Century Modernism? Interior trends come around and go around, as do fashions, and this year heralds, for me at least, the exciting return of the Art Deco influence. The people that know about these things feel it has spent long enough in the background to finally take centre stage in 2019. It was one of the most inspiring, opulent and glamorous periods in design history, and this year hints of Art Deco are popping up in detailing on tables, chairs, lighting and the mixed metals trend also
Female Focus January 2019
&
continued on next page
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 33
gives a nod to the style. And let’s face it, we all love a touch of glamour, don’t we? Bar carts And with the Art Deco influence in mind, one of the more unusual comebacks is being made by Bar carts! They’ve been a must buy in 2018 and this trend sees fit to surge into 2019. If you like entertaining and mixing the odd cocktail, then a bar cart lets you take the elegance – and the party – anywhere in your home for maximum versatility. It’s also the perfect place to store treasured glassware, bottles and create themed vignettes.
FF - Your Magazine
Fight pet odours - Deodorise the dog bed by sprinkling surfaces with baking soda, letting it sit for 15 minutes, and then vacuuming it up. Solve smelly trainers - Freshen up after your Zumba class by sprinkling some baking soda inside your shoes. Just tap it out before you wear them again. Clear a slow drain - When you notice your drain is starting to clog, put a ½ cup of baking soda down it, followed by a ½ cup of vinegar. Cover with a wet cloth to contain the science fair-like effects. Wait five minutes and then flush with hot water.
Your Personal touch Trends are inspiring and act as a guide when you are about to decorate or update a space, but the most important design expert you can ever bring on board to a project is… you! Decorate your space with the things that are valuable to you, remind you of good times or are just beautiful to you. Trust yourself and enjoy the space you create! But if you need a touch of inspiration then come and visit us at Lotus Interiors and let 2019 be the year you fall in love with your home all over again!
Tammi
Lotus Interiors, Ctra. Moraira 14-16, Benitachell. Call 96 649 3232. www.lotusinteriors.es. Female Focus January 2019
FF Your community magazine
Page 34 www.femalefocusonline.com at the Olimpia theatre in Oliva on the 6, 7 and 16 February, an hilarious family show with all the panto fun. For more information, please phone 644 889 155, email olivadramagroup@gmail.com, or see their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OlivaDrama.
A happy New Year to all our board-treaders and supporters. The Stage Diary now in its 11th year of publication is not only an important guide to what’s on in all regions but is also an on-line web introduction to potential expat’s researching community life in Spain. The diary also acts as a planning guide to assist groups avoid unnecessary clashes of production dates. Caprice: After a short break over the Christmas period, Caprice ladies’ choir are now in full swing for their next concert in May with songs from stage and screen, many familiar, but some hidden gems. The choir pride themselves on the variety of songs they sing, all-in three-part harmony, with something to appeal to everyone. For more information contact musical director Aileen on aileen@capriceladieschoir.com or on 696 514 613.
Phoenix Dancers: Phaedra and the Phoenix Dancers would like to wish all their supporters a very happy and prosperous New Year. They are now very busy with rehearsals for their spring show (date to be confirmed). However, they are short of boy dancers and singers, so anyone interested in joining the group please get in touch with Phaedra as soon as possible. 607 290 896 is the number to call. Sounds Familiar: The Company are in rehearsals for their next show, Show Stoppers, which will mark their 10th anniversary in February. If you are interested in joining the group or trying out this fun hobby, then please contact Philip on 96 558 1483 for more information.
Careline Theatre: Ship wrecked on a tropical island, Crusoe puts a message in a bottle. The Chaplaincy Eventually the bottle is found and his family Singers: After a very sail to rescue him. However, Blackbeard busy and successful the evil pirate has other ideas. With a crazy Christmas season The dame, an evil baddie, fabulous costumes, Chaplaincy Singers singing and dancing the ‘Robinson Crusoe’ are working on new pantomime is not to be missed. Dates 17 to material for their 20 January. Contact Box Office on 605 181 upcoming spring concerts. If you love to sing why not join them. 726 and at carlineboxoffice@gmail.com. Rehearsals every Monday from 11am – 1pm at the Ermita San Josep, La Fustera. Call 96 648 2467 for more information. All Costa Blanca Male proceeds from their concerts go to the Anglican Chaplaincy and Voice Choir: It was the charities they support. standing room only in Benitachell church in V a l l e y December for the choir's Vo i c e s : annual Carol Concert Valley Voices under their new musical gave their director Heather Butcher. The congregation were entertained by C h r i s t m a s festive songs from a 37-strong line-up and the standing ovation at concert in the end of the evening spurred the choir on to their next event, a Jalon, after Carol Service in Teulada church the following evening. They are c a r o l l i n g now looking forward to the new season and to repeating their sell- during previous days for local charities. A jolly and varied out Concert at the Cave in June. programme got everyone in the festive spirit, which continued with their Christmas collaboration with Cor d'Orba. Thanks to Jávea Players: Save a date in your Jacaranda for sponsorship, helping towards their professional diary for the next show in Gata from pianist and director; allowing them to raise more funds for local 25-30 March. You will be dazzled by charities. Rehearsals resume on Monday 7 January. Please contact the fabulous theatre version of ‘My Fair valleyvoiceschoircb@gmail.com, 699 603 088 or their Facebook Lady’ including the singing, staging and page. the costumes. It would be luverly to see you there to hum along to your favourite If you would like your group to be part of the Stage Diary please th songs! Tickets not yet available - for email benny@female-focus.com. Deadline for copy is the 15 of the month prior to publication. more information see www.javeaplayers.com.
&
Oliva Drama and Cultural Association: ODCA are currently rehearsing for their February pantomime, 'Robin Hood', their most ambitious production to date. There will performances Female Focus January 2019
Stage Diary Costa Blanca South information can be found online at www.femalefocusonline.com
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 35
FF - Your local magazine
Gandia Area Social Club (International) Put More Life In Your Life With The GASC!!
The club has been in existence for 30 years plus (!) but has really grown in strength in the last few years. We hold monthly Dinner Dances with live (high class) entertainment at the Viva España Restaurant on the N-332 in Oliva. Apart from the music nights we have monthly quiz and dinner evenings and weekly sporting activities, badminton, walking, hiking, petanque and trips away. There are always lots of good things happening to enjoy in the GASC! As ever, all are welcome. Membership is only 7€ per year but non-members are welcome, too. Please see our website: www.gandiaareasocialclub.com especially the What's On page. To book events please email: gascbookings@gmail.com. See our Facebook too!
Jávea U3A members celebrate in style Report and pictures by Ian Rogerson
The Christmas period is always a busy time for the Jávea U3A – and this year was no exception! Members have been revelling in the festive fun at numerous parties, dinner/dances and social events as well as the everpopular annual Christmas Extravaganza, which once again attracted a capacity turnout at the Parador.
A number of Jávea U3A groups held Christmas parties, including Spanish Culture & Cuisine, and Dine & Dance, both at the Parador, the two Wine Appreciation Groups (WAGs and WAGs Too) at Restaurant La Cocina, and NJFM (Not Just Folk Music) at its regular monthly venue, the Inn on the Green. Other groups enjoying Christmas-themed get-togethers included the monthly Quiz Night, Sunday Singles, Canasta and Book Club as well as snooker players switching tables from green baize to tapas! And Mike Frost’s annual end-of-year lunch at Restaurante Masena attracted over 100 members. All in all, it has been a very Merry Christmas for many of the U3A’s 1,400-plus members. Now they are looking forward to the new year and enjoying more of the diverse activities on offer.
Open Meeting
Many of the groups will be featured at the next monthly meeting at the Parador on Wednesday 30 January – the annual open meeting, which gives members the opportunity to meet group leaders and find out what is on offer. For more information visit http://www.u3ajavea.org. Female Focus January 2019
FF Your community magazine
Page 36
www.femalefocusonline.com
The Marina Alta Arts Society Annual General Meeting Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Marina Alta Arts Society will take place on Thursday 7 February at Salones Canor. Teulada - directions can be found on our website www.marinaaltaarts.com. All members will be welcome, doors open at 09:45 for registration and coffee will be available, for a prompt start at 10:15. The meeting will be followed at 11:00, when guests will be welcomed, by the first presentation of our new season The Cult of the South Pacific by Leslie Primo. Those invitees who attended the introductory meeting of the new venture, which became The Arts Society, will remember the charming, charismatic and knowledgeable presenter Mr Leslie Primo from that time, and, will once again we trust, be thrilled with this presentation. It will also bring a little warmth and light into the proceedings after the festive season and the winter months. Leslie Primo studied Art History at London University, has been a visiting lecturer at the University of Reading, and gives lectures, tours and special talks at both the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. He has also presented a series of talks at the National Maritime Museum and the Courtauld Institute. Leslie Primo is a graduate with a degree in Art History and an MA in Renaissance Studies from Birkbeck, University College, London. Leslie currently lectures at the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, and teaches a variety of art history courses at Imperial College, London – South Kensington campus, the City Literary, Covent Garden, London and Bishopsgate Institute, Liverpool Street, London. This lecture will look at the enduring Western obsession with, and invention of the so called ‘exotic’ or ‘noble savage’ starting with the first discovery of the Island of Tahiti in 1767 and charting the impact, through painted images of the island and their people, of the English and European influence in this part of the world through the eyes of not only Captain Cook and those who came before him, but also through the eyes of the artists who accompanied these pioneering voyages and into the 19th and early 20th century with the images of Gauguin. And to this end the lecture will look at how romanticised depictions of the island and its peoples by artists such as: William Hodges (1744-1797), Benjamin West (1738-1820), John Webber (1751-1793), and John Cleveley (c.1712-1777), and indeed those of Paul Gauguin (1848 – 1903), not only bolstered these notions in the minds of Europeans, but helped to perpetuate and invent the Western notion of the exotic and the myth of paradise. Leslie has presented this enthralling lecture in far away places including New Zealand and Australia. As has become standard fare, wine and soft drinks will be available to members and guests to allow socialising with the Committee and Speaker after the lecture. For further details of the Society and programme for 2019 see our website www.marinaaltaarts.com or for membership email membership@marinaaltaarts.com.
Moraira-Teulada U3A 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance The day had been sunny and pleasantly warm for December but, as night fell, a seasonal chill descended over the countryside under a starlit, clear but moonless sky. In the darkness, the lights of the Salón Canor Banqueting Suite in Teulada shone out like a beacon for the 218 people all heading for its welcoming warmth. For tonight was the great finale to the 10th Anniversary year celebrations of the Moraira-Teulada U3A – the Christmas Dinner Dance. As guests wended their way inside the venue any onlookers would have marvelled at the way the lights were reflected by the sparkle of the ladies’ dresses. How glamorous they all looked and the number of dinner jackets, both black and white, sported by the gentlemen, completed the wonderful sight. On stepping inside, members were invited to enjoy a welcoming glass of cava before meeting up with friends old and new in the festive atmosphere. The dining tables had been beautifully laid with crisp white napery and sprinkled with tiny Christmas decorations, all adding to the spirit of the occasion. Everyone soon found their allotted seat and after the President, David Haxon, had formally welcomed them to the event, settled down to enjoy the sumptuous meal which was to follow. Table service was swift and unobtrusive, delivering three very tasty tapas before the main courses arrived to be followed by delicious desserts, all washed down with wine or soft drinks. As soon as everyone had eaten their fill, the entertainment of the evening began in the shape of Ges Rogers’ Union Gap who entertained the assembly with their spirited renderings of popular music from the sixties and seventies. The dance floor was soon crowded with energetic dancers, keen to make the most of a splendid occasion. Carriages were at midnight and by that bewitching hour members were ready to drive off into the night remembering with immense satisfaction the splendid evening they had all enjoyed. Warm thanks to the Social Events Officer, Tony Old, who had organised such a grand event and who must have slept soundly that night in the knowledge of a job well done. Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 37
We are lucky to have some very talented musicians here and one such very talented performer is Anita van den Berg, better known as Lady Jazz. This charming entertainer, who hails from Holland was an Events Organiser, and for many years she was the Events Producer at The Casino Company. This task involved arranging luxury casino event projects for prestigious companies, many held in various locations. In addition to this Anita started her own model agency "Gold Models", which became an instant success. Her inspiration to start this venture came from the time she worked with other agencies and saw further potential in this industry. Anita was also responsible for introducing The Glamour Bingo, a great event for the ladies with beautiful prizes, and a corresponding theme for the party every time. Later, after all the pressures of business, Anita decided to take things slower and relocated to Spain. Anita moved to Spain 3 years ago "without a plan". It was then her passion for music returned to her. As a teenager Anita was already a seasoned performer in her native Holland, and recorded her first single at the age of fourteen. Even at that young age her marketing skills were apparent, as she walked from door to door, selling her record. Settled in Spain, it was so much easier for her to resume her singing career as her voice had matured and was perfect for the Jazz genre of music. In the past 3 years Lady Jazz has firmly established herself on the local entertainment scene.
FF - Your Entertaining magazine
Her versatile performances have made her very much in demand by many venues, catering for both tourists and residents alike. Anita was surprised and honoured to be chosen as official support act to the American soul group "Earth, Wind and Fire" when they appeared at Torrevieja. In her words - an evening and an experience, never to be forgotten. Her music is ideal for restaurants, Lounge Club, Cocktail Lounges, weddings or private parties. Stylish music covering numbers by the likes of Billie Holiday, Etta James and the unforgettable Frank Sinatra ...but also more modern artistes such as Melody Gardot, Amy Winehouse, Sade and Karen Souza. Contemporary songs with a wonderful jazzy sound, that everyone can appreciate. She is now filling up her diary for 2019 so if you have a venue and would like more information, take a look at her Facebook page Lady Jazz Anita or her website www.lady-jazz.com or call her on 677 233 879.
The Original Charity Shop and Library volunteers help Santa Following a long-standing tradition, the volunteers of The Original Charity Shop and Library, JĂĄvea, were delighted to lend Santa a helping hand delivering the presents to the children at the Raquel Paya School for children with special needs in Denia.
This was, as usual, a very exciting day for the youngsters who awaited Santa’s arrival with great anticipation. The excitement reached fever pitch when Santa arrived, weighed down by his heavy bag with all those presents. After a medley of popular Christmas carols it was time for Santa to open the bag and each child was presented with a very special gift of their choice. Following the presentation the volunteers were treated to tapas and wine, beautifully prepared by some of the teenagers who are doing a catering course. As a very special treat the youngsters are looking forward to an overnight stay at the Oceanografico in Valencia. President Georgina Harvey was very happy to present a cheque for 1,000₏ towards the cost of this trip. The Original Charity Shop and Library Christmas raffle was once again a huge success. We would like to sincerely thank everyone who made this possible: our generous sponsors, clients and customers who bought raffle tickets, staff who collected prizes, sold raffle tickets and helped wrap the presents for the children.
Female Focus January 2019
Page 38
FF Your community magazine
www.femalefocusonline.com
La Tierra - The Earth. See if you can find all 30 Spanish words (in blue). Remember Word Search words can go up, down, across, diagonally and even backwards and to make it harder, Answers to puzzles in the classified pages
some letters will have been used more than once.
ACANTILADO - CLIFF ARROYO - STREAM ATMÓSFERA - ATMOSPHERE BAHÍA - BAY BOSQUE - FORREST CASCADA - WATERFALL CIUDAD - CITY CONTINENTE - CONTINENT CORDILLERA - MOUNTAIN RANGE DESIERTO - DESERT ESTRELLA - STAR GOLFO - GULF HUMEDALES - WETLANDS ISLA - ISLAND LAGO - LAKE LUNA - MOON MAR - SEA MESETA - PLATEAU MONTAÑA - MOUNTAIN OCÉANO - OCEAN PAÍS - COUNTRY PLANETA - PLANET PUEBLO - TOWN RÍO - RIVER SELVA - JUNGLE SOL - SUN TIERRA - EARTH UNIVERSO - UNIVERSE VALLE - VALLEY VOLCÁN - VOLCANO
Free Spirits HD raise 1,600€ for charity at their Christmas party The Free Spirits Harley Davidson enthusiasts club held their Christmas party on Friday, December 14 at El Cid in Benidoleig, when a total of 115 members and guests enjoyed an evening of eating, drinking and dancing, all in aid of charity. This year the club are supporting two charities – Help of Denia and Marina Alta and SCAN of El Verger, a society for animals in need – and the presidents of both organisations attended the party and were presented with a cheque for the amazing amount of 1,600€. Part of the money raised was from the auction of a painting of Jimi Hendrix by local artist and FSHD member Sue Hankey for which club member Lisa Fox put in the final bid of 170€. A raffle was also held on the evening. FSHD Director Barry Haylor said it was a fantastic achievement by the club’s members and guests. For more information about Free Spirits HD contact Barry at freespiritshd@gmail.com, visit www.freespiritshd.club or phone 629 728 375. Female Focus January 2019
Page 39
www.femalefocusonline.com
FF - Your magazine
&
Spot the difference -
See if you can spot all 12 differences
&
SUDOKU Here are two Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try. Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 grid contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repeats, which means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.
Answers to puzzles in the classified pages
MALCOLM'S MUSINGS Nostalgia & Spain’s Samba Kings by Malcolm Smith
Lunch at Franciscan Hospice – Gandia
I enjoy looking back on happy times so the unpalatable memories of the war years, I tend to sweep aside. I grew up in the 40s and 50s when ballroom dancing was all the rage in an era when swing, jazz and – particularly in my case – Rumba, Samba, Tango, Bossa Nova and Cha-Cha music was influencing the toe-tapping and body swaying movement in every dance hall making my life a post-war heaven. In the vanguard of this Latin entertainment were two dance band impresarios both with Spanish connections. Xavier Cugat – born in Barcelona – led the charge in America whilst eventual Jávea resident Edmundo Ros spread ‘the words’ and music in England and around Europe. In the 1950s I knew little of Cugat but ‘Edmundo’ was my ikon….my idol! Ballroom dancing was the high point pleasure of my life! I danced my way through each week to rhythmic Ros strains played by local dance bands, and via gramophone ‘78s Tango-ing, Rumba shimmying, Cha Cha-ing, Samba swizzling and Bossa Nova-ing constantly. I even won a local samba competition in the early 50s and a ‘Twist’ championship a few years later! Sadly I ‘sort-of’ left Afro-Cuban dance rhythms behind when I grew up but I still love the music. For several years Edmundo Ros disappeared from my nostalgic past then I retired to Spain only to discover that the mellifluous maestro had done much the same thing. Edmundo Ros O.B.E. had settled in Jávea not a great distance from where I had become an ‘ex-pat’. Our paths eventually crossed a few years ago when we were guests at a ‘Charity Do’ in Teulada - unfortunately the band did not play either the ‘Laughing Samba’ or the ‘Wedding Samba’ but you can’t win ‘em all.
The Church of England at Les Rotes in Denia help to provide lunch for the residents at The Franciscan Hospice at Palma de Gandia. Volunteers, from the Church, are obviously enjoying themselves as they prepare lunch. The Hospice is always grateful for any help and donations can be sent to – Centro de Acogida, San Francisco de Asis, Pla de Vernisa, Palma de Gandia, Valencia. At the Church of England at Les Rotes in Denia there is a Holy Communion Service every Sunday at 11.45am and all are welcome. Female Focus January 2019
FF Your community magazine
Page 40
www.femalefocusonline.com
NOTICEBOARD
Aircrew Association Costa Blanca. Former and serving aircrew of the UK or Allied Armed Forces are very welcome to join this friendly organisation founded here in 1988. Details from the Secretary on: 96 640 4123. Alfaz Spiritual Foundation – Spiritual church in Alfaz de Pi, meets at the Forum Mare Nostrum, Camino de Pincho 02, every Thursday at 6.30pm for Divine Service. Each week there is a different medium, international and 'home grown' giving evidence that life is eternal. Following the demonstration of mediumship, there is the opportunity to receive healing. Mediums offer workshops and private readings. If interested and for more information please visit www.alfazspiritualfoundation.com. Amigos de Benitachell Charity Shop can be found on Crta. Moraira No. 18, Benitachell. It is open Mon to Fri 10am to 1pm. Donated items are always welcome. They are looking for volunteers. If you can spare some time for this worthy cause please call their president Carole on 620 781 034 or pop into the shop between 10am and 1pm weekdays. Amigos de Make a Smile Charity Shop We have lots of good quality second hand clothes, handbags, small pieces of furniture, children's clothes, shoes and bedding. Find us at the bottom of the dual carriageway in Teulada on the left hand side near to the Rodafoc fire shop. We are also looking for volunteers to help us in the shop. So if you could spare a few hours a week come along and talk to the team. Avenida del Mediterráneo, 4 Teulada. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 1pm. Benitachell Christian Fellowship. Looking for an English speaking church close to Moraira, Teulada or Benissa? Then you are welcome to visit us. Our Sunday service starts at 11am and runs for about 75 minutes. Whether you are a resident or visitor, please feel free to come along – we have a number of visiting speakers, the welcome is warm, the music is good and parking is nearby. Call Eric on 678 980 151 or Ann on 96 647 0303 for details and directions. For further info about the Fellowship, directions and map visit www.benitachellcf.org. Charity shop of Calpe The shop is open every morning from 10am until 1.30pm except Sundays and can be found in Galerías Mar Azul – half-way up Avenida Gabriel Miró, on the right hand side. If you are looking for ladies´ and men's clothes and shoes, household items, paperbacks and small pieces of furniture, then drop in and have a look. Also, if you have any items to donate or would like to help out in the shop just pop in. Calpe Christian Fellowship. We have moved to the Spanish church Vida Abundante on Avd Diputacion. English service every Sunday 11am, details www.calpechristianfellowship.org. Tel 670 491 283. Free car parking. Calpe – MOFTAG – Mighty Oaks from Tiny Acorns Grow, is an English Speaking Ladies Social & Fundraising Club. We meet every second Wednesday in the month and organise social events for the third & fourth Wednesdays. A Warm welcome awaits. Please phone our President, Jenny Godfrey for details of the venue. Tel 96 583 0179 – mobile. 639 139 518. CALPE U3A hold their monthly general meetings on the third Thursday of the month at the AR Sol Ifach Calpe 10am for a meeting start at 10.30am. Calpe U3A is about learning and pleasure. We have many groups to be involved with and the travel team have day trips and short holidays advertised on the travel team Facebook page and www.u3acalpe.org. Chess Mates. We meet every Tuesday at Bar Vinyater, Jalon at 2pm Whatever your level or experience you will be most welcome to join us. Both men and women make up this marvellous and happy group. Call me on 605 231 331 for more details.
Costa Blanca Computer Club. Regular Saturday meetings in the Sierra Bernia School is planned to start on 12 January from 10:00 hours. See https://sites. google.com/view alfazcbcc/home for more club information, included our meeting programme. Costa Blanca Mountain Walkers. The CBMW is a group of people who get together twice a week to enjoy walking in the mountains of the Costa Blanca. Anyone is welcome to come along. Visit www.cbmwalkers.org for information on upcoming walks and guidelines. Crib in Calpe - we meet every Monday evening (19:45 for 20.00 start) at Oriental Gardens Restaurant, Calle Pintor Sorolla, Calpe - for beginners and improvers and people that haven't played for 20 years. A fun evening with a happy group (no need to bring a partner). Ted: yogated@hotmail.co.uk or 634 313 527. Crime Watch Spain. (Vecinos Colaborando Costa Blanca). We try to reduce crime and vandalism in our communities. We try to look after the citizens. We also teach Spanish. For more information please email: colaborando.crimewatch@gmail.com. Denia, Church of England. At the Church of England at Les Rotes in Denia there is a Holy Communion Service every Sunday at 11.45am and all are welcome. HELP of Denia and Marina Alta Parkinson's Support Group meets every last Monday of the month at our Activity Centre in La Xara at 2.30pm. The group gives support, latest information and advise on Parkinson's. Come along and meet a great bunch of people. Call the coordinator on 634 301 677 for information, www.helpofdenia.com or Help of DAMA FB. Language Exchange in Calpe - A totally free service to bring together English speakers wanting to practice Spanish with Spanish speakers wanting to speak English - Meetings on a 'One to One' basis at a mutually agreed time and place in Calpe. Contact Liz or Ted at calpeavl@hotmail.com. Jávea International Bridge Club, Avda. de Paris, Arenal. Why not join us on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (with host) & Friday at 2.45pm. Visitors very welcome. Email: pat@javeabridgeclub.com or telephone: 96 647 2158 if you wish to learn this fascinating game of bridge. More details on our website: www.javeabridgeclub.com. Jávea Computer Club. The club is open to new and existing members from 9.30am until 12.30pm Mon, Tues and Thurs of each week Whatever your computing needs, we can probably help. So why not come along and get some assistance. Membership annual subscription still just 10€ with a one-off joining fee of 10€. Further information on the Club web site: www.javeacomputerclub.org or www.facebook.com/JCCCOMPUTERCLUB/ or email javeacomputerclub@gmail.com. Jalon Valley Help events. Casa de Ánimo, Alcalalí: First Sunday of the month: Afternoon Tea 4-6pm, Tuesday Morning Drop-in: 10am to 1pm – a cuppa and a chat. Thursday Craft Group: from 2pm – sewing and knitting. First and Third Fridays: Art Group 2-4pm – beginners welcome. For information on any of the above call Alison on 96 648 2166. Charity Shops:10am-1pm Mon-Sat (Alcalalí 96 648 2970, Jalón 96 648 0944). Enquiries: 659 624 643 – also for loan of medical equipment eg wheelchairs, walking frames etc. No charge but a deposit is requested. Home knitters & volunteers needed. www.jalonvalleyhelp.com.
U3A Vall del Pop: Dancing Group Xmas Celebration
Jávea U3A E-riders in action
The Vall del Pop Dancing Group completed their Autumn semester with a Christmas celebration at the Hotel Katul in Albir, for a dinner dance, where they had the opportunity to put into practice the dances perfected in those many weeks of practice whilst enjoying an excellent dinner and wines. Patricia and Duncan thanked all the dancers for making their Tuesday mornings so enjoyable. Classes resume on Tuesday 8 January, so why not go along and join them. For further information on U3A Vall del Pop check our website http://u3avalldelpop.com. The U3A is all about enjoyment and learning, and this is particularly evident in the U3A Vall del Pop, whose members hold their General Assembly generally, fiestas and holidays permitting, on the first Thursday of each month at the Centre Polivalent in Murla, and have a diverse range of groups for the interest of the members. Female Focus January 2019
The Jávea U3A E-Bike group held its third ride on what turned out to be a dry and sunny day which was perfect for riding.
The group, formed only a couple of months ago, has already attracted a total of 18 members and six of them joined this latest outing, meeting at Cafe Cortado in El Port Jávea. Group leader Philip Gauron welcomed Joni, Ellis, Bill, Harry and Graham, at 10am for a 10.15am push-off. One of the group’s objectives is to ride on minor roads and off-road tracks wherever possible and the ride achieved this. Riders headed to Jesus Pobre, a lovely town, through minor roads and lanes and cycle tracks, stopping at La Rana, an irrigation system where washing used to take place. The group stopped for drinks and a chat at Jesus Pobre before continuing along the old railway track and crossing the railway junction, and then on to El Verger using minor roads and cycle tracks. They arrived in El Verger and enjoyed drinks and lunch at a lovely café, relaxing and putting the world to rights. After their stop, they returned home to Jávea, having covered 53km and everyone agreeing it had been an enjoyable day out.
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 41
NOTICEBOARD
Jávea International Baptist Church (JIBC), Pastor Steve Hall. Sunday Service is at 10.30am at The Church Centre, Carrer Favara 8, Jávea, (just off the Plaza de la Constitucion in the old town or “Pueblo”, where the open air market is normally held on Thursdays.) For further information please visit our website: http://www.javeabaptist.es or call 96 579 5847. Make a Smile Recycle Heroes Need Your Help. Dennis and Barbara accept any household items, furniture, electrical and clothes etc for the recycle projects. They are happy to do total house clearances. The items are given a bit of TLC and sold in rastros and auctions to provide funds for the charity. They can be contacted on 660 961 585 or 96 583 6814. Marina Alta Model Railway Club. Dust off your Dapols, bring out your Bachmanns, haul out your Hornbys! The MAMRC meets regularly at its spacious Clubhouse in Teulada. We cannot make you young again, but we can remind you how it felt. All gauges for all ages. New members welcome. Call 96 647 1939 or email mamrclub@gmail.com. Oliva Chess Group. We meet in Oliva every Thursday morning. New members welcome whatever your standard. For further details please contact Graham on 609 970 621 or email graham.flowerdew@hotmail.com. Oliva Art Group. We meet in Oliva every Tuesday evening 6pm until 8pm and Wednesday morning 10am until 1pm. New members welcome, whatever your standard. For further information contact Graham 609 970 621 or email graham. flowerdew@hotmail.com. Paquita’s Country Club is a Social Club which was formed 28 years ago, for people of all ages, resident or non resident. Being a member is a great way to meet and make friends, whether you are single or a couple. We are based at El Cid Restaurant & Bar in Benidoleig and hold weekly and monthly activities on and off site. These include a Walking Group – once a month a group of us walk for about 2.5 hours then have lunch somewhere nearby, a Travelling Diners Group, Weekly Tombola and Whist, together with Dinner Dances, Excursions & Mini Breaks. We are a friendly Club offering a warm welcome to existing and new members. Please contact the Membership Secretary Belinda Crick on 96 645 9724 or 686 222 754 for further information, we look forward to hearing from you. PLJ Spiritual Social Centre. We meet at the Albir Cultural Social Centre (between Mercadonna and Sol Albir Estate Agents) every Wednesday evening at 6.45pm. We are a group of friendly spiritually minded people who are non profit, non political and non religious. Each week, there will be discussions and demonstrations on various topics and ideas based on Spiritual, metaphysical, and mystical themes with occasional guest speakers or mediums. For more information contact: Pauline: 602 559 062 Jan: 603 259 169 or Lyn:663 315 532. FB:- pljspiritualsocialcentre. Email:- pljspiritualsocialcentre@gmail.com. Royal British Legion Benidorm Branch meet at 11am on the third Friday of each month at Ciudad Patricia Benidorm. They also have a monthly lunch and various social events. New and old members most welcome. Please contact secrblbenidorm@outlook.com or call James on 677 786 559 for more details. Royal British Legion Calpe Branch meet every Friday at 11.30am at Restaurant Dracula, Calpe Port (opp. Baydal Restaurant). New members always welcome. Come along and meet new friends and enjoy the monthly outings. Please contact Norman Hodgkiss, on 96 574 7410 or calpe3465.members@gmail.com.
FF - Your magazine
continued
Royal British Legion Jávea Branch meet at Paris 24 on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month (except July & August). We meet from 10.30am onwards for coffee and a chat, our meeting starts at 11.30am. We have a very good Social Programme throughout the year. We would love to see members and none members coming to our meetings and join in. We would make you feel most welcome. Pamela Dawes, Membership Sec, RBL Jávea Branch, contact 96 579 0123 or 617 789 883. Salvation Army Denia Are you looking for fellowship with a multinational congregation. We are based at the beautiful Camp Saron, just outside of Denia. There is Sunday worship 10.30am, prayer and bible study on Wednesdays. All very relaxed with English, Dutch, German, Spanish, American, also Welsh, Scottish and Irish. The address is Camp Saron, Partida de Torre Carrels. Denia. Telephone 698 609 658 or 652 319 810. San Juan Evangelical ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ located at Calle Juan Sebastián Elcano 25, 03550 San Juan. We have people from South America, the Philippines, Spain, England, the Netherlands and more nationalities, the diversity of God. You are very welcome in our Sunday services at 5pm to join us in worship and prayer. For further information: ivanysadys@yahoo.es or call 605 556 974. Spiritual Friends is a non-religious group of spiritually minded people. We have changed venue and our meetings will now be held at Jávea Golf Course. As before we will meet weekly on a Wednesday. Start time 2.30pm finish 4.30/ 5pm. Each week different spiritual/ holistic subjects are discussed by invited speakers or between ourselves. For information see www.spiritualfriendscostablanca.com or email sp.fr.cb@gmail.com. Tennis. Old Bats and Balls meet at 10am every Thursday morning at the Rafol courts. Men and Women of all levels are most welcome and the subs average 1€ per week. We also enjoy a monthly and sociable lunch after the mornings play. Call me on 605 231 331 for more details. Valleys Bridge Club Come and join us for a friendly game of Duplicate Bridge. We meet every Thursday at El Cid in Benidoleig, 1.30pm for play to commence at 2pm. New members are always most welcome. For further information contact either Brenda 96 640 4533 or Tina 96 558 3136. World Mysteries Discussion Group This is a discussion group which meets up every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month at 4.30pm at Innate Active (formerly known as SolPark Tennis), Moraira, located on the outskirts of Moraira close to the Pan, Pan, Jamon, Jamon café bar. We discuss all types of subjects including the Egyptian Pyramids, crop circles, the ancient Sumerian tablets, lost civilisations, the recently discovered Bosnian Pyramids etc. We aim to promote investigation and research in order to share information and discuss interesting unexplained topics. For more information email morairaworldmystery@gmail.com. Xàbia Book Circle. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month in the Centro Social, Xàbia Old Town, beside the Health Centre, at 6.30pm for a 6.45pm start, and we finish at 8.45pm. You can also follow our activities on our website www.xabiabookcircle.com. For more information please contact the Xàbia Book Circle Secretary, Nina Davies on 96 579 1782 or ninamdavies@yahoo.co.uk. Calling all groups and charities send your forthcoming events and information to editor@femalefocusonline.com before the 15th of the month prior to publication.
Friends of Xàbia Museum visit the museum of Villajoyosa. At the end of last year some thirty members of AMUX, the friends of the Xàbia Museum, travelled to Villajoyosa to visit the town Museum. The multinational group were able to enjoy guided tours of the Museum, in English and Castellano. The first part of the tour told the story of Villajoyosa and its development as an important trading town through the ages. The Treasures of Villajoyosa show how people lived by displaying the artefacts excavated in the area. These ceramics, jewellery and remnants of buildings give important clues to how the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Moors and then Christians lived and died in the town and its surrounding area. The second part of the tour allowed visitors to see how the Roman trading ship, the Bou Ferrer, was discovered on the sea bed in the coastal waters near the town and how one of the most important underwater excavations ever was carried out. The layout of the ship and Roman amphoras recovered from the wreck provide the key to the enormous trade in oil, wine, fish sauce and lead ingots between Rome and the Roman province of Hispania. On the way to Villajoyosa, the group stopped to visit the Torre de Sant Josep. This impressive structure, one of the best preserved Roman funeral monuments in the Valencian region and indeed in the whole of Spain is set in a park overlooking the sea. In 2016 the beautiful gardens were restored as a gift by Elaine Evans and the park named after her. Information about AMUX, and how to become a member can be found on http://amuxabia.weebly.com. For more information contact Nina Davies, email: ninamdavies@yahoo.co.uk. Female Focus January 2019
FF Your community magazine
Page 42
www.femalefocusonline.com
U3A Marina Baixa Charity Donation Last week Tony and Hazel Layt, went up to the Gandia Franciscan Hospice to present 250€, donated from the U3A Marina Baixa Charity Fund. The photo shows Brother William with two of the residents, receiving the cheque from Tony and Hazel. Other Charities helped by the U3A this year, include the Alfaz del Pi Food Bank, plus the La Nucia Food Bank and we are extremely grateful to our Membership who support us in raising money to help those less fortunate than ourselves. U3A Marina Baixa holds its general meetings on the fourth Monday of each month at the auditorium in the Casa de Cultura Alfaz del Pi. The next Meeting is the AGM on Monday 28 January. The doors open at 9.30am and the desks close at 10.50am for a prompt 11am start. Please come early to sign in and get your seat! The General Meetings are normally always on the 4th Monday of the month. If you have not heard of this Association and would like to join them, you can be assured of a very warm welcome. Please visit the website www.u3amarinabaixa.com to find out more information there is also a Facebook page. If you do not have internet access please contact their secretary Joan Flint on 96 586 1226 or mobile 663 637 167 for more information.
Moraira - Teulada U3A members support “Make a Smile” The members of Moraira-Teulada U3A decided that this year’s members’ charity was to be “Make a Smile” which supports children in care homes in the Costa Blanca area. Following various functions and events the U3A members have raised a total for the year of 1,435€ to donate to “Make a Smile. David Haxon, President of Moraira-Teulada U3A, is shown (right) presenting Tony Grande of “Make a Smile” charity with a cheque for 735€. In addition, at the U3A General Meeting in December, there was also a very successful collection of gifts for the “Make a Smile” Christmas bag appeal. The charity is very grateful for the donation and the money received will go towards clothing for the children over the Christmas period and into the New Year.
MOFTAG break all records at their Xmas Fair All the hard work that the Moftag Elves put in for weeks beforehand certainly paid off with the amazing amount of 2212€ being raised for local charities. This is the highest amount ever made at their fairs which are held twice a year. This year Santa Claus even paid a surprise visit which just added to the festive mood of the day. Moftag (Mighty Oaks from Tiny Acorns Grow) the oldest club running in Calpe, this year celebrated its 40th Anniversary. As you can see from the photos they focus on a great social atmosphere apart from raising funds for Maite Boronat, Gargasindi School, The Red Cross and the Food Bank. The club would like to thank everyone who supported their Xmas Fair in the way of donations and everyone who came along on the day. You all made this day such a success for them. Moftag meet every Wednesday and new members are always welcome. If you would like more information kindly contact the president Jenny Godfrey at 639 139 518.
The Valleys Bridge Club The Valleys Bridge and Social Club held their Christmas lunch at El Cid, during which a raffle was held in aid of Jalon Valley Help. People were very generous and an amount of 350€ was raised. This year Liz and Roy Saunders were awarded the President’s Trophy, very worthy winners. All in all, it was a very pleasant afternoon. The Valleys is a friendly Club, which meets every Thursday at El Cid. For further details please phone Brenda on 96 640 4533 or Tina 96 558 3136. Female Focus January 2019
www.femalefocusonline.com
Health & Beauty
FREE CONSULTATION - BOOK NOW, Does the weather ruin your make-up. Permanent Eyebrows & Eyeliner are the perfect solution. Elements Beauty Spa In Denia. w w w. e l e m e n t s b e a u t y s p a . e s elementsbeautyspa@gmail.com Call: 966 424 647
Services
JENNY'S CLEANING SERVICES. Reliable, honest and legal. H o m e , b u s i n e s s , t e n a n c y, changeovers and oven cleans. English and Spanish spoken Covering Javea, Denia and surrounding areas. Call now 633 624 232 www.jennyscleaningservices.com
Page 43
FF - Your healthy magazine
MAN AND VAN for hire, cheap & reliable. Jalon valley & surrounding areas. 96 648 0757 (9.30-1.30) or 636 100 873.
THE INTERPRETER, for all your English/Spanish interpreting & translations. Based close to Denia Hospital & surrounding medical centres. Emergency 24 hour call out for Denia Hospital. CALL 686 320 435 or email on candidawright@gmail.com TRANSLATOR AND INTERPRETER English/Spanish. All legal, medical and business matters. Covering the Costa Blanca. Contact: 658 957 404 or ejbtranslations@gmail.com SKIPS IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE Small, Medium, Large skips for Building, Gardening, Mixed loads. Also earth, gravel etc available for delivery. Call Contenedores Mata on 96 579 0172 or 679 440 046. COYS RENT A CAR An independent Car hire company operating from the Torrevieja area, Alicante & Murcia airports. To get a quote, look at our website: www.coysrent-a-car.com BOOST YOUR GOOGLE Ranking with the Costa Blanca’s fastest growing business directory… With live Facebook feeds turning our readers into your customers business.femalefocusonline.com
www.femalefocusonline.com
Female Focus January 2019
Page 44
FF Your community magazine
Entertainment LADY JAZZ performing at the Costa Blanca! Perfect for your Lounge Area, Private Parties, Weddings, Fine Dining and Cocktail Bar!! High quality vocals & chill out tunes. 677 233 879 FACEBOOK: LadyJazzAnita or visit www.lady-jazz.com
Misc Sales
TRAILER GALVANISED METAL, 110 x 90 cms, drop rear flap, swing body, spare wheel, jockey wheel, papers. 245€. Ring 690 772 178 (San Fulgencio). HOWSON GOLF CLUBS, full set of golf clubs, with bag and folding trolley, 40 mostly new balls, and tees. The zip on the ball bag does not work, otherwise all good condition. Please call or WhatsApp 670 412 203 (Pedreguer area). THULE ROOF RACK, lockable, for cars with parallel roof bars. Cost €230, sell €75. Please call 675 865 863.
TRAILER 1M by 1.1/2 M. Drop down back suitable small builder 250€ ONO Call 681 262 723. TRIPLE EXTENSION LADDER very good condition, 75€. Call 681 262 723. FINE CHINA MINTON ‘Haddon Hall’ design. Extremely pretty, perfect condition, 8 tea cups with matching saucers, 110€. Telephone 669 585 248 (Jalon area).
PAUL´S EMPORIUM IN Pedreguer. Weekly changing stock. Everything priced to sell. Why pay new when you don’t need to? Find us in Pedreguer Industrial Estate. Tel 96 644 7002 or find us on Facebook at 'Paul's Emporium Pedreguer'. FOR SALE ELTEGO powered wheelchair, new May 2018 so still under 2 year guarantee. Range of 32 Km. Max. speed 6 Kms per hour. Pictures available on request. 800€ or near offer. Please contact Barbara Pilling on 679 528 054. WOOD BURNING STOVE Rowandale, Black Enamel, 500€. 2 years old, cost 2,400€ new. Photos or further information email fearneheather@gmail.com (Benidoleig area), 628 637 518.
Very easy
www.femalefocusonline.com
Puzzle Solutions
Medium
Personal ARE YOU SUFFERING through another person drinking? Help is available Al-Anon meets every Thursday in Benidorm at 5pm. The meeting is in Calle Jardines not far from the Railway Station. Our contact number is 634 758 539. CLAIRVOYANT READINGS JAVEA Clairvoyant readings in Jávea. Peaceful surroundings. Hilary 677 221 409.
SAMARITANS IN SPAIN
FREE PHONE 900 525 100
pat@samaritansinspain.com HELP of Denia and Marina Alta
Medical Equipment and Information office: 96 642 7044 Denia Hospital Interpreters and Info desk: 96 642 9346 HELP Coordinators: Benitachell 664 573 360 Calpe 616 237 135 Orba 639 176 812 Denia 634 309 442 Benissa (number to follow) Jávea 634 388 446 Teulada/ Moraira 634 318 819 Parkinsons Support 634 301 677 HELP President 634 345 014. Female Focus January 2019
All adverts must be sent with your Name and NIE or Passport Nº (not published). ADVERTS SHOULD BE sent with correct spacing and spelling, the first three words (only) in capitals. Email addresses will not be published on the website or in the magazine unless requested or supplied as part of the main text. FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTS. Sell your unwanted items for FREE! Free adverts cannot be faxed, phoned or posted they must be emailed to classifieds@femalefocusonline.com. Photos can be sent with your free advert, both will be published online but text only in print. Classifieds that are supplied incorrectly, all in capitals or with missing information may well be deleted. ‘Misc sales’ are for example one-off sales of second hand items to the value of 500€ or less. Maximum twenty words per advert/ item & maximum five adverts per person*, (email & web addresses count as three words). Property rental or any type of service, business opportunities, wanted, etc are not free and will be charged at the commercial advert rate. Free Property adverts: Property sale adverts should also be emailed to classifieds@femalefocusonline.com by the property owner (up to 40 words). These adverts will be published free for a 3 month period and can include Property Agent contact details (and photo to be included online only). Commercial adverts: Minimum advert length ten words. 35 cents per word plus 21% IVA per month. Payment can be made by credit card or paypal. *Free adverts will be published in print on a space permitting basis. If you want to ensure your advert appears, normal commercial rates should be applied.
www.femalefocusonline.com
Page 45
FF - Your useful magazine
Computers
Autos And Boats
SAVE MONEY ON YOUR OVERSEAS MONEY TRANSFERS Call Sherry Fraser-Currie 96 626 5072 or email: sherry.f@currenciesdirect.com BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY HOUSE Beautiful country house, fully renovated, all mains services. Benimarraig, Benissa, 4beds / 4baths. Underfloor heating, woodburner, pool, garage, electric gates. 285m2/5000m2. Very quiet location, no road noise. 595,000 euros. Email: fwandje@gmail.com Tel:659 561 027 or visit www.fincaquisi.co.uk VILLAGE TOWNHOUSE, BENIARDA. Village Townhouse with shops and bars nearby. Open plan dining, lounge and kitchen. Downstairs toilet. Woodburner and electric radiators. 3 bedrooms, one with terrace. Study area. Bathroom. Roof terrace with mountain views and kitchen. Fibre broadband. 30 mins to coast. Reduced to 145,000€ or consider an exchange to smaller house or bungalow. Tel 693 246 318. VERY PRIVATE VILLA 5 minutes walk into Orba. Our home for more than 15 years with 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms plus a family bathroom, set in some 188m2 + is set in a large flat plot in excess of 2,500m2. Lounge of 24m2, separate media/ sitting room, kitchen diner re-modernised in May 2011, office/ study has been used as a 4th bedroom. Front covered terrace, a rear covered terrace dining area, outside kitchen plus store. Large patio surrounding the pool and children’s / cooling off pool that cascades down the rockery into the main pool. Garden areas including several types of fruit trees, palms etc. Electric gate system, full irrigation system, 2 carports and parking for a further 10 cars. The property is approached by a tarmac road that has a total of only 7 properties on the full length, all of a very high quality and value. The village has bars restaurants, supermarkets, chemist and lots of various shops. There are sea views to the Denia coast and it is surrounded by mountains and a valley making it probably the most private property in the area - totally unique. 10 minutes drive to a large shopping mall, 15/20 minutes to the coast. Selling for 395,000€. For photos and all information call David on (0034) 666 037 331 or email d.edwards.homes@gmail.com FREE PROPERTY ADVERTS To get your free 3 month property for sale advert send your advert content (up to 40 words) to classifieds@femalefocusonline. com - Please include your name, NIE or passport number and address, this is not for publishing but we must have these details on file. And remember you can also send a photo to go with your advert that will be published with your wording on the website. (Wording only in the Female Focus Magazine.) The advert can include your property agent contact details.
Female Focus January 2019
FF Your property magazine
Page 46
www.femalefocusonline.com
Hamiltons: The Estate Agency Network that Delivers
With 5 offices, we have 5 times the staff, 5 times the effort, 5 times the marketing and 5 times the service making the Hamiltons Estate Agency Network unbeatable when it comes to selling your property. If there’s one thing that we’ve learned at Hamiltons, it is that whatever we do, it must always be with you, the customer in mind. And when we say customer, we mean people who have decided it’s time to move on and are selling their property. In order to enjoy the levels of success we do, we need to list, market and sell your property as effectively and efficiently as possible. This means the best staff, the best tools of the trade, and of course the best office locations. The majority of estate agencies here on the Costa Blanca, operate with one office, and then try and service customers as far as possible. We’ve learned that just isn’t good enough. To address this, we have expanded our locations every couple of years or so. What this means is that your property can be found on multiple websites, appear in mailshots, and even in office windows, all with the same great marketing for which we’ve become known. It means that if a potential buyer goes into one office, they’re not restricted to what an agency may have in one town, they get the entire coverage of the Northern Costa Blanca. When you put it all together, coupled with our knowledgeable, friendly, professional and local team, it all adds to achieving our aim of selling your property for the best price in the shortest possible time.
*Now in Jalon*
In December, we were proud to bring our well-known Hamiltons brand to Jalon under the management/ guidance of Nick Coleman based in Moraira (prior to this it was run independently). We’ve already lined up experienced staff and are in the process of bringing the office, and our databases and back-office, up to the standards which drive success. The office is located on Avenida Joanot Martorell (Edificio Aloe, Local 4).
Denia: Opening in 2019
The expansion doesn’t stop there. We’re already well under way to opening our next office in the heart of Denia. In the meantime, we do cover Denia from our other 4 offices. We’re handling calls through our central office where we can easily be reached on 96 649 1883. So, if you’re just not selling, or are thinking about selling, call for a chat, we’ll soon get you moving! N.B. We have no affiliation with Hamiltons of Els Poblets which is run independently.
Female Focus January 2019