Dep. Legal A-917-1993
E FR E
APRIL 2021
Female Focus Publications serving the English speaking community throughout the Costa Blanca since 1993
BALDNESS
undermining your confidence?
Stop your child's
TANTRUMS Motoring Changes to the
GREEN CARD The Chateau Soft Furnishings by
Angel Strawbridge
PROFHILO at ZenSmileSpa
See page 13 for more information
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
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Residents in Senior Resort Ciudad Patricia now also vaccinated As widely reported, the residents of Ciudad Patricia’s nursing home (the high-risk priority group) received their Covid Vaccinations earlier this year. On March 11th, it was the turn of the remainder of the Residents living independently in Ciudad Patricia’s retirement apartments to receive their first vaccination. After different requests by the management of Apartamentos Ciudad Patricia and the medical team of the Geriatric and Rehabilitation center, the Valencian Health Authority finally agreed that all residents could be vaccinated at the same time within the Resort. To prepare for this, an area in the Central Building was set aside and all vaccinations were carried out in accordance with the relevant requirements. This was welcomed by all as another positive step on the road to post-Covid normality and as a reflection of the on-going measures the resort management takes to maintain the health and well-being of everyone at Senior Resort Ciudad Patricia.
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ACCIDENT POLICIES
n accident policy is the best protection for your daily life, which is always full of surprises. We run the risk of having an accident every day, wherever we are, so to avoid additional medical costs, the accident policy is tailor-made cover to protect you and your family, no matter what happens. If you think that accidents at home are not so common, a fact to think about is that throughout the year more domestic accidents occur than sports and traffic accidents. More than 3% of the population suffered some type of injury at home or in their free time, with women being the most affected, representing 57% of the cases. Every 24 seconds a domestic accident occurs in Spain, the most frequent being due to falls (44.20%). The main scenarios where accidents occur in the home are the kitchen, the bathroom, the bedroom, the living room and the garden and, of course, all of these rooms are used frequently. So the chances of having an accident that requires medical care is quite high. You may be of the opinion that accidents would be covered by your private medical cover or the state national health. Let me assure you that this is not always the case. So instead of assuming that everything will be automatically covered by the national health system, you could be in for a shock when you discover that your accident may incur medical costs, because not everything is covered. This would be a financial shock. There will be many of you who will be feeling very comfortable in your assumption. Please do not wait to discover, far too late, that you personally will be responsible for any medical costs. If you want to enjoy security and protection, for you and your family, there are four different options to choose from at as little as 50€ per annum, which will cover any financial consequences of an accident. ● For more information or a quotation, call us on 966 461 690, email info@jennifercunningham.net or visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net.
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This month we are celebrating 10 years since we launched our QFocus magazine, the equivalent to Female Focus magazine in the Costa Blanca South area. It started out covering the Quesada area but soon grew to cover the whole Costa Blanca South. We are also busy putting together the sixmonthly Professional Services magazines for both the Marina Alta and Vega Baja areas. If you are interested in advertising in any of our publications please contact your area representative - details below. If you are a reader using one of our advertisers please let them know you saw their advert in a Female Focus publication. Together we can all help each other as we hopefully move towards a return to 'normal'. Congratulations to Doreen Moores from Altea la Vella who won last month's competition after spotting the Curry On Cooking logo. For your chance to win a selection of Curry Kits this month, see inside for full details. Good luck. Pick up your next issue on 4 May
Lesley
Deadlines: Editorial & Advertising - 12 noon - 19 April. Female Focus covering from Alicante North and the QFocus 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
Finestrat to Moraira Alan 689 358 232 alan@femalefocusonline.com
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!
Like and Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FemaleFocus/ Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055 editor@femalefocusonline.com advertising@femalefocusonline.com classifieds@femalefocusonline.com www.femalefocusonline.com Female Focus is proud to have been voted the third most popular magazine worldwide in the independent Expat Survey Consumer Awards
Female Focus Publications are supporters of www.aldeasinfantiles.es
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
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"Baldness runs in our family. SMP gave me back both my confidence and my self-esteem" Interview with Mr Glenn Woodland by Female Focus magazine Over the past six months Female Focus has been interviewing clients of Daz Day, the award-winning Scalp Micropigmentation Specialist, about the difference that his treatments have made to people's lives. Mr Glenn Woodland, who lives in Benidoleig, is another person who has had the treatment and is extremely satisfied. "The men in our family traditionally all go bald, but I was getting thin on top well before my time. It was getting me down, and making me very self-conscious." says Glenn.
Glenn before on the left and on the right with his head shaved ready for treatment
So before he moved to Spain, Glenn underwent Scalp Micro Pigmentation (SMP) which is the perfect solution for Receding Hairlines, Male Pattern Baldness, Alopecia, Scars, or Thinning Hair.
It offers a permanent look, is very low maintenance, affordable, and gives an instant solution. "To give you an idea of how natural it looks," says Glenn "when I moved to Spain no-one here realised that I had had anything done, until I told them! I would recommend the treatment to anybody and everybody". "It has completely changed my life, and given me back both my confidence and my self-esteem."
After 12 months of preparation and 6 months of promotion, Scalpmastery is proud to announce its Grand Opening in April. Glenn now with a much fuller head of hair appearance.
Because of Covid and all the associated Government rules and restrictions, until now the clinic has been unable to open. But now, with light at the end of the tunnel as far as the pandemic is concerned, the Scalpmastery Clinic will be opening in April, and ready to treat men and women suffering from hair loss.
25% OFF for the first 10 clients
To mark the launch of the first Scalpmastery clinic in Spain, the first 10 clients will receive 25% off their SMP treatment. With clinics already at Harley Street in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and also in the US, Scalpmastery is now opening in Denia. Around the world Daz Day has already treated over 3,500 happy clients, and now you too, can get the appearance of a fuller shaven head of hair, and get your hairline back instantly from the first session. ● For more information about SMP please visit
www.scalpmastery.com or call Daz on mobile (0034) 628 101 711 or landline (0034) 966 670 500.
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Make sure you shop around!
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
I
n our industry, many of our clients make initial contact with us by way of referral. This is often seen as one of the best ways to do business as most referrals tend to come from existing satisfied customers. But what happens when an individual needs financial advice but has no referral to contact? How does an investor choose between one company or another?
In truth, we (Logic) have generally done very little in the way of advertising compared to some of our competitors, preferring to keep a low profile and focus on our core strategy of providing an unrivalled level of service. This paid dividends for us in 2020 as we won a major European award for “Excellence in Client Service”. Our preference has always been to work on a smaller and more personal scale as we believe this is better suited to our family-run business model. Taking this approach has served us extremely well over time and we are fortunate to see our business continuing to expand year after year. However, 2020 was a little bit of an eye opener for us as several potential clients called our office for the first time and pretty much said “we didn´t know you were here”. It soon became apparent that these clients were either seeking a second opinion on financial advice or were simply shopping around to compare one company with another. Many of the individuals would openly admit that they were speaking to other advisers and considering their options. Our response? Perfect! We actively encourage all clients to take this course of action and weigh up the pros and cons of engaging with different financial advice companies. Similar to general insurance, most IFA´s will cover the same areas and have similar solutions available but the relationship you have with the adviser and the fees you pay them could vary significantly. Staff turnover rates, the size of the establishments and the organisation structure are all factors that should be taken into consideration and will contribute to your experience and the price you pay. We pride ourselves on being open, honest and transparent with all of our clients and are proud to be one of the most experienced and established companies here on the beautiful Costa Blanca. We also passionately believe that a comparison of companies will highlight the benefits of working with us at Logic and our unique selling points which set us apart from our competitors. Our message is simple; make sure you shop around when considering engaging with a Financial Adviser. The relationship you have with an adviser can potentially last for generations, so it is important to make the right choice!
● Logic Financial Consultants are fully regulated & licensed financial advisers, covering the Costa Blanca, Murcia and Canary Islands. We can travel to you, or you can visit our office at Calle Andres Lambert 24, 1B, Jávea. Tel: 965 020 444. Email: info@logicfc.com Web: www.logicfinancialconsultants.com.
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
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LIBERTY SEGUROS explains the new changes with respect to the so-called Green Card As of April 1, the green card -which verifies the validity of Compulsory Liability Insurance for vehicles- will no be longer green and will now be sent by email to policy holders by their insurance provider. In a move that will see more of the sector enter the era of digital transformation, drivers will be able to print their own green cards, with black and white prints on standard A4 paper. This change has been driven within the decision of The Council of Bureaux, the organisation acting for the protection of cross-border road traffic and coordinating the activities of the different EU members of the Green Card system, to check the validity of Third Party Liability Motor Insurance through a new centralised single platform. Now, using advanced security measures, its centralised web platform will allow insurers of its member countries to generate “QR-coded” Green Cards, which will then be sent to policy holders as downloadable PDFs. So, these documents no longer need to be printed on the traditional, green-coloured paper and as such, the traditional Green Card may simply become black and white. These changes mean that when you are driving in a Bureaux member country, the authorities will be able to check automatically, through this platform, if a vehicle is duly insured. But, despite these changes, LIBERTY SEGUROS reminds that when you are visiting countries that are not part of the European Economic Area (such as the UK and Gibraltar), the green card document, although now a printed version, will be mandatory as it always has been. In the same manner, insured vehicles from countries OUTSIDE of The Council of Bureaux and those that are not part of the European Economic Area (including, UK and Gibraltar-registered vehicles) will also be required to carry the document whilst driving in Spain. For LIBERTY SEGUROS, no longer having to print and post Green Cards in a specified colour and format will be a welcome change. For policy holders, LIBERTY SEGUROS assures drivers that the new process is as easy as printing an airline boarding pass. With the changes that surround Brexit, LIBERTY SEGUROS understands that there’s a real need for clear and transparent information regarding changes to driving in Spain, and it remains on-hand to keep you informed with regard to your obligations as a driver. The expat’s preferred insurer, LIBERTY SEGUROS offers a wide range of covers for car insurance that can be tailored to your individual needs, with advantages that stand out against competitors. For example, with LIBERTY SEGUROS, there’s no need to declare vehicle accessories if they have been fitted by the manufacturer; and, in the case of a claim, any luggage or personal belongings are covered up to 500€. LIBERTY SEGUROS also offers extended cover in case of Total Loss or Total Theft at 100% of the value ‘as new’ if the vehicle is less than 2 years old, or at 80% of the value ‘as new’ if the vehicle is between 2 and 3 years old. A courtesy car is included as standard for up to 45 days (35 days for vehicle breakdown) and policy holders are free to choose a garage of their choice in the event of a claim. What’s more, LIBERTY SEGUROS has specific cover for electric vehicles too. There are other benefits as well. With LIBERTY SEGUROS there’s no maximum age for drivers – provided they have a valid driving license – and Roadside Assistance is available from Km.0. Furthermore, with LIBERTY SEGUROS you can also take out car insurance for UK-plated vehicles (except for vehicles registered in Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney and Gibraltar), as well as cover for classic vehicles and Spanish and UK-registered motorhomes! With an extensive network of more than 300 expatriate brokers and agents that speak YOUR language and who are at YOUR disposal for friendly and expert advice that’s tailored to you, it’s easy to see why LIBERTY SEGUROS has become expat insurance provider of choice in Spain with over 175,000 expat clients. ● To find the location of your nearest broker/agent, simply visit: www.libertyexpatriates.es or call 91 342 25 49.
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
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How to get the best out of your salon visit
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oing to a new salon or asking for a change of look with your current stylist can be daunting. The idea of having to look at yourself in the mirror for an hour or so can be off putting too, and the anticipation of a new stylist can make you feel nervous. However with a bit of forethought you can enjoy the experience and get the results you were looking for. Personal recommendations are always a good place to start in choosing your stylist. Have a look on the salon’s Facebook page or website and look for recent photos of their work, read the biography of their team, all this will help you feel more connected and reassured. All our team members at www.mimiskruhairandbeauty.com have a short description of their experience and qualifications, as well as their specialties. Tip 1. If you have not been to the salon before, book a free consultation so you can discuss the look you want. This will build confidence ahead of your appointment and ensure you have the correct services booked. Tip 2. Ditch the lingo as it could cause confusion. For example avoid phrases like 'balayage' and 'baby lights’ instead just describe the look you want, for example; ‘I want my hair to look sunkissed.’ Your stylist can then work their magic. Tip 3. Create a folder in your phone with photos that inspire the look you want - make sure it’s the hair you love not the model or celebrity. You can also add in photos of styles or colours you had in the past that you really liked. Using these photos as a guide a good stylist will explain how the looks you like can be adapted to your hair. Tip 4. Show your stylist exactly how much you want taken off the ends - we are always amazed at how an inch differs between client and stylist. If your hair is damaged a bit more may be the best solution to making the end result look good. An alternate solution to damaged hair would be an Olaplex Treatment. Tip 5. Be honest about how much time you want to spend on your hair as it will help the stylist give you a look that works for you in everyday life. Tip 6. Take note of aftercare advice and product recommendations. A good stylist will make suggestions that could make a big difference to your hair condition and how you manage your hair at home. Don’t feel pressured to buy the product immediately you can always go back. A little preparation for your appointment and you will love the results achieved. Good luck on your journey, we at Mimis Kru offer all the help and advice given above. For a free consultation call us on 965 793 584, or visit our website for all information including prices and booking on line. Stick with the professionals. ● Local 12, Edificio Caribe, Av del Pla 129, Jávea. Tel 96 579 3584. www.mimiskruhairandbeauty.com Facebook Mimiskru. See our advert on the Horoscopes page.
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PROFHILO
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The aging neck is a part of the body that worries men and women alike. It is an area where we see laxity as well as ‘necklace’ lines which are often a cause of embarrassment, and try as we might the neck is difficult to hide in a warm place like Spain. The new 10 point treatment using Profhilo® is a breakthrough in improving crepey and wrinkly skin in the neck region. Profhilo® is a non cross linked hyaluronic acid which is unique in its kind in that it stimulates the production of collagen, penetrates deep into the skin’s layers and spreads out evenly. This means for an area like the neck where the skin is thin, there are no risks of the product being visible and because of its composition, the results last for a prolonged period of time.
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DR CAROLYN CARBASSE B.D.S. MSc (GUY'S LONDON) Specialist in Dental and Facial Aesthetics Director of Zen Smile Spa by C.C.
IS PROFHILO BETTER THAN FILLERS? Generally, if you would like to achieve a more holistic result and improve your skin tone, Profhilo® is the best treatment for you. However, if you would rather make small changes to certain areas of your face such as your cheeks, dermal fillers are more suitable for you.
WWW.SPAJAVEA.ES WWW.ZENSMILESPA.ES WWW.BOTOXJAVEA.COM Only 2 treatments are required 1 month apart with just 24 hours of down time. Using an anaesthetising gel prior to the session makes everything completely pain free. Profhilo® for rejuvenating the neck is suitable for anyone who dislikes the appearance of their neck and can be combined with botox. Call us on 96 579 3810 or 665 506 009 or visit www.spajavea.es for more information.
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
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How much chocolate is too much chocolate?
It's Easter time! This season in many towns and cities across the world, millions of children will have been given millions of Easter eggs. As we all know, Easter Eggs come in many sizes, usually displayed in enticing brightly coloured packets, with bright and colourful wrapping, and often with bright and colourful bows. They may come designed as a bunny, or in a heart shape, or perhaps designed as a Superhero egg seated in a Superhero mug. The different designs are countless. Whatever, we can be very certain that the wanton gluttony has begun! 2,000: The number of chocolates that will kill a child Surely, we have all tried the ¨Death By Chocolate¨ option from the pudding menu. And we probably all know that giving chocolate to our pet dog is a No No. Why is this? And could that danger also apply to humans? Here comes the science bit! The key to chocolate's deadliness is a bitter tasting chemical called theobromine. Like nicotine, cocaine, and morphine, theobromine is an alkaloid, defined chiefly by the presence of at least one nitrogen compound in a heterocyclic ring. Cacao beans, from which chocolate is derived, naturally contains about 1.2% of the compound by weight, and since all chocolate has some amount of cacao, it will also contain a little theobromine. In the human body, moderate quantities of theobromine widen blood vessels, stimulate the heart, and act as
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a diuretic. So that's okay. But in larger quantities, theobromine isn't quite so medicinal. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea manifest first, followed by irregular heartbeat, seizures, internal bleeding, heart attack, and potentially even death. Hmm, still thinking of giving out all those chocolate eggs? Except, as you've hopefully learned through years of scoffing chocolate eclairs, chocolate bars, and chocolate whatever, you've absolutely nothing to worry about. To develop nausea from theobromine intoxication requires piggishness of the order of Augustus Gloop from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory - you would have to eat a lot. To die from it is a chore of a whole other magnitude. The dose at which 50% of people will expire from theobromine intake is around 1000 mg per kg of body weight. That means that an average ten-year-old child stuffing chocolate into his or her mouth this Easter would need to consume something like 2,000 chocolate mini eggs! However, as mentioned above, dogs, cats, birds, and other animals aren't so lucky. They metabolise theobromine about five times more slowly, so the compound has much more time to accumulate in their bodies to toxic levels. So don't worry you can happily hand out chocolates and allow your children and grandchildren to indulge (to a degree), but do keep your pets out of the picture. If you are worried about any form of intoxication or addiction, Dr Poole at Clinica El Arenal is a certified family doctor / GP and is also a specialist in dealing with addictions.
● Clinica El Arenal, Av Arenal 2, Jávea. Telephone: 966 166 733 or Email clinicaarenal@gmail.com
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Female Focus Magazine April 2021
What to do and how to react to your child’s tantrum.
A tantrum is a behaviour that children carry out to express that they do not agree with something, to say that they do not accept "no" for an answer, or it is the way in which they express their frustration when having to wait for something that they’ve asked for and want NOW. It’s very important to work and modify these behaviours, because if children grow up and see that these tantrums are working to get what they want, they will continue with these behaviours and they will become more frequent and intense. Therefore, the way to act when faced with a tantrum is to ignore the behaviour. Do not respond to or speak to the child while they're performing this behaviour. Not even looking at them, because just by looking at them or even telling them off, we are enhancing their behaviour. So, when the child is having the tantrum, first make sure that they are in a safe place with no dangers, such as an open window, or a chair on which they can climb and fall... After being sure that there is no danger, ignore the behaviour, watch TV or read a book or even leave the room. The next thing that normally happens is that this behaviour will be accentuated to capture the attention of parents, grandparents etc. My advice is that you continue to ignore them and just when the crying or anger decreases in intensity, then you approach them and say something like: “Now, much better. Tell me…" These are guidelines to follow, it’s very important that from the moment you decide to carry them out, you are repetitive, that is, you repeat the pattern every time the tantrum occurs, so that little by little, week by week, the tantrums diminish in quantity and intensity. If you are having any issues with your children or grandchildren etc, that you don't quite know how to resolve, if you wish, contact me at info@davidcasadocoach.com and I will cover these topics in future articles, or send them directly to the magazine at editor@femalefocusonline.com. David Casado. Educando en Familia. Member of the Consejo Internacional de Expertos.
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
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Abdominal Pain
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hen abdominal pain is experienced regularly after eating a large meal this could be a sign of Gallstones. The Gallbladder is a 7 to 10 cm pear-shaped organ found under the liver in the upper right region of the abdomen.
When healthy, its main function is to store bile, a compound produced by the liver to digest fat to help the body absorb fatsoluble vitamins and nutrients. However, when it stops functioning correctly a chemical change in the bile make-up causes Gallstones, causing mild discomfort to severe cramping in the upper right side of the abdomen. People more likely to suffer are females over forty, diabetics, obese people and those that eat a diet high in fat or women who have extra oestrogen due to hormonal replacement therapy, birth control or pregnancy. Contact your Doctor for a blood test which will show up signs of jaundice and inflammation caused by gallstones. After a thorough physical examination an abdominal ultrasound is essential to detect the gallstones, then the appropriate treatment can be prescribed. If however the gallstones are deep in the abdomen it will be necessary to perform a CT or MRI scan to give a clear diagnosis.
● Clinica Britannia, Ejércitos Españoles 16, 1st Floor, Calpe. Tel 965 837 553 or 607 255 755 24 hours a day - 365 days a year.
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Nestled in an exclusive urbanisation on the lower slopes of the tranquil hills surrounding Calpe... The Colina Club offers you a home with the security of excellent support whilst enjoying the stunning views over Calpe to the Mediterranean Sea and the famed nature reserve of the Peñon de Ifach. In the 30 years that the Colina Club has been providing continuous care to the ex-pat community of retirement age, we have constantly adapted and strived to continue providing a comfortable, secure, peaceful and caring community for our residents. Working within the current government restrictions to ensure our residents' and guests' safety, we continue to offer our long term unfurnished rental apartments and The Residence, our fully licensed Nursing and Rest Home, for those who are looking for a quiet, family-orientated, small village atmosphere in which to live. The independent living apartments were specifically designed so that both the lower and upper apartments have level access (just one small step) from the parking area directly outside. Our pub and Village Tea Room have been a wonderful social time for our residents. With adjusted schedules, our free minibus service has continued to take residents to and from Calpe. Our apartments are independent living, but you never feel alone. You can relax with the security of knowing help is always close at hand with your free personal 'HELP' alarm monitored 24 hours a day in case of an emergency. During lockdowns, we have visited every resident every day to provide companionship and check on their welfare. The good thing about living at The Colina Club is that you can keep your independence yet still have all the medical back-up available. Our private Doctor and nursing staff are part of the team that provides excellent medical support in your apartment. These services, amongst others, are included in the price of the monthly rental. ● The Colina Club is all about providing families and residents with the Peace of Mind and the security of excellent care by providing a comfortable, secure, peaceful and healthy facility in a superb location, allowing you to enjoy life in your senior years. So why not come and see for yourself?
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AS SEEN ON TV
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Turmeric Golden Latte Spice Mix
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aldi has been touted as a wonder drug and in recent years gained popularity in the west; this is owed to research highlighting the therapeutic and healing properties of turmeric. A member of the ginger family; turmeric has been harvested for more than 5,000 years and plays an important role in food, medicine and beauty products in the east. A healthy alternative to coffee, haldi doodh, golden or turmeric milk is an Indian drink, found in almost every trendy high street coffee bar! This golden beverage is easy to make at home and for half the price!
Ingredients Spice Mix
Once mixed, the spice mix can be stored in an airtight jar for up to three months.
• 5 tbsp ground turmeric • 3 tsp ground ginger • 2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp ground cardamom • 1 tsp ground black pepper
Method - Latte Spice Mix In a bowl add the turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom and ground black pepper. Mix really well and transfer to a glass jar with an airtight lid.
Ingredients Golden Latte Milk • 350 ml milk • 1 tsp spice mix • 1 tsp agave syrup / honey or sweetener (optional)
Method - Golden Latte Milk In a small bowl add one tablespoon of the milk with a teaspoon of the turmeric latte mix; using a fork whisk to combine. Add the rest of the milk and mix well. In a saucepan heat the milk gently until steaming, add sweetener, pour in to a mug and enjoy! LOOKING FOR A GIFT with a difference or to learn a new skill? The Spice Sisters have a fantastic three-month curry subscription. Great ‘I miss you’ gift for family and friends. Visit: www.curryocooking.com Or if you fancy a cook along Indian cookery lesson for you and your family and friends get in touch - keepcalm@curryoncooking.com ● Recipe supplied by The Spices Sisters from Curry On Cooking. Don’t forget to like them on Facebook 'Curry On Cooking'. You can purchase their currylicious kits from www.curryoncooking.com.
We hear you!
After a trying year for everyone, we're looking forward to hopefully a better summer. With this in mind, we have been busy getting all the new product ranges in the store! From charcoal to fresh packaged meat for the BBQ, burger buns, sauces and chips to cakes and sweets for pudding! Cold coffees for the hotter days, Nestlé and Häagen Dazs icecreams... And my favourite of all - Our pastry display unit is heated!! So whether it is our Kebab Slice, Chicken Tikka Slice, Cheese & Onion Slice, Sausage Roll or any of the Spanish Empanadas or our FAMOUS HOMEMADE PIZZA, it's all fresh from the oven and you will not be disappointed!
BEST OF ALL -
We're open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year! See advert below for contact details.
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Walk Your Way Well
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Female Focus Magazine April 2021
by Niamh O'Sheehan
ithout doubt spring has well and truly sprung here on the Costa Blanca. And, judging by the gloriously scenic photographic posts I'm seeing on social media, it seems that the whole of Europe has got a sprightly spring in its step. We gratefully say farewell to a mixed bag of March weather and welcome in the fabulous April forecast. If you are a first-time reader of “Walk Your Way Well” let me introduce myself. My name is Niamh (pron. Neeve) and I'm a walking fanatic! Every month, I will come at you with a new angle to encourage you to realise the benefits of the most rewarding, accessible, and FREE form of fitness for your precious body and mind: WALKING. However, let's face it, I can make the wildest promises of how this activity will fix all your woes but you'll still possibly ignore me. And why is that? Well, maybe your motivational tank is running on empty and there are no reserves to fuel those first few steps. Let's take a look at this. I've previously touched on the topic of motivation and how the thing most often holding us back is our own stubborn mind. I was a victim of these tricky tactics in March when I convinced myself the weather was telling me to bail on doing any exercise. Luckily, a friend sent me a great Indoor 10,000 Steps YouTube video which busted my excuses. I know I won't have been alone in using something external to rationalise my lapse in momentum. I wasn't sick. I didn't have an injury. I wasn't completely exhausted. I wasn't hungover or emotionally depleted. I simply didn't open my toolbox of coping strategies and I went into hibernation mode. We are only human right?! One of the most important things to remember about being human is that we have a human thinking brain. Stating the obvious there Niamh! However, did you know that we also have a very busy, very loud, and VERY stubborn CHIMP thinking brain? This attention seeker really likes to be heard and will persistently try to derail your plans, goals and dreams at every given opportunity. Please don't take offense. I'm not calling any of us monkeys BUT it is widely recognised that our “primitive” brain is a force to be reckoned with. It quite often sabotages our best laid plans. However, it doesn't mean to be destructive. Our Chimp brain is simply trying to protect us from anything outside our comfort zone. And, quite simply, going for a walk is not comfortable for some people. Your Chimp brain is the one who encourages you to eat the Mars bar when you are on a diet. Your Chimp brain is the one who suggests you crack open a bottle of wine when you know you need a day off booze. Your Chimp brain is the one that hits play on the next episode of the Netflix series you're watching even though you need to be up at 7am for work. And yes, that blasted Chimp brain is the bugger who tells you to stay put at home when you KNOW the only way to get fit is to practice fitness. So, how do we manage to handle this side of our mind? How can we encourage our human brain to reject the taunts and teasing of our inner Chimp? I'll tell you how... don't ignore it! You might think the opposite but let's study some techniques we might use to manage this bossy brat. Don't fight with the Chimp! As with any adversary, it's good to talk and negotiate. Listen carefully to the reasoning and logic of this powerful opponent and then equip yourself with an even more powerful comeback. Chimp Brain: “I need to wait until payday until I can buy myself some decent walking boots.” Human Brain: “Don't be ridiculous, early humans did 2,5 million years barefoot so I can manage an hour in old trainers.” Distract your Chimp! You are cosy on the sofa and three episodes into Game of Thrones. Your Chimp is champ. A great ploy is to implement a simple distraction tactic. Take 60 seconds to stand up, shake your body and go to the kitchen for a glass of water. Now, look at that! You are in a brand new state. You've left the Chimp on the sofa. You are up moving with the TV out of sight. You are halfway there. If you are quick, it will only take another 60 seconds to grab your jacket and keys and pop out for a stroll. A two minute distraction strategy has just changed your entire day. And don't worry, the sofa will still be there when you get home. Educate your Chimp! If this part of your brain is there to protect you from discomfort, then why not rewire it? READ about how exercise and walking is incredibly good for you. WATCH videos or LISTEN to podcasts about the benefits of walking. Even better, GO WALKING and let your Chimp experience and enjoy the endorphins that lift your mood and relieve stress. Once your mind loses its fear then you'll find the day will come where your primitive brain has done a U-turn and is demanding you put down the TV remote and boot up. Well, after all that Chimp chit-chat I believe it is time for me to put these practices into play. It's a glorious day and I've spotted a hill with my name written all over it. If I'm quick I will have grabbed my water bottle, a bag of peanuts for sustenance and I'll be out the door before a sneaky somebody points out a bunch of easier lazier options available to me. Bye bye bozo. Catch you later. Thanks for reading and I look forward to seeing you Walk Your Way Well! Contact me: niamhosheehan@hotmail.com
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GCHQ releases toughest ever puzzle in honour of Alan Turing banknote By Laura Parnaby, PA GCHQ has created its toughest puzzle ever in honour of Alan Turing appearing on the new £50 note. The Bank of England revealed the note’s design featuring the scientist and mathematician on Thursday, as GCHQ officials said their new treasure hunt involving 12 puzzles “might even have left him scratching his head”. Mr Turing was a pioneer of modern computing and hugely instrumental in breaking the German Naval Enigma cipher in 1942, at Bletchley Park – GCHQ’s wartime home. Director of the cyber and intelligence agency Jeremy Fleming described him becoming the first gay man to appear on a banknote as confirming his status as “one of the most iconic LGBT+ figures in the world”. Mr Fleming said: “Alan Turing’s appearance on the £50 note is a landmark moment in our history. “Not only is it a celebration of his scientific genius, which helped to shorten the war and influence the technology we still use today, it also confirms his status as one of the most iconic LGBT+ figures in the world.
“So, a wonderful tribute and certainly something we’ll be having a go at shortly.” GCHQ officials said the full challenge could take an experienced puzzler seven hours to complete. Colin, a GCHQ analyst and its chief puzzler, said: “Alan Turing has inspired many recruits over the years to join GCHQ, eager to use their own problem-solving skills to help to keep the country safe. “So it seemed only fitting to gather a mix of minds from across our missions to devise a seriously tough puzzle to honour his commemoration on the new £50 note. “It might even have left him scratching his head – although we very much doubt it.”
“Turing was embraced for his brilliance and persecuted for being gay.
Mr Turing joined the Government Code & Cypher School – GCHQ’s wartime name – in 1938 to help with the code-breaking effort during the Second World War, working alongside Gordon Welchman.
“His legacy is a reminder of the value of embracing all aspects of diversity, but also the work we still need to do to become truly inclusive.”
In January 1940, Mr Turing had a meeting in Paris with Polish counterparts, who gave him the insights he needed to design the Bombe.
The puzzles are based on the unique design elements of the new banknote, such as the technical drawings for the British Bombe, the machine designed by Mr Turing to break Enigma-enciphered messages.
The combination of the Bombe and the brilliant minds and perseverance of those working at Bletchley Park led to the breaking of Enigma.
Mr Turing’s great-nephew, James Turing, described the puzzle as a “wonderful tribute” which his family would be attempting to complete themselves. He told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “I think it’s a wonderful recognition, and a bit reminiscent of the famous crossword that they used for recruiting at Bletchley Park back in the day.
In January 1952, Mr Turing was prosecuted for “indecency” over his relationship with another man in Manchester, and was given a choice between imprisonment and probation on condition of undergoing hormone treatment. In 1954, Mr Turing took his own life. The puzzles can be found at www.gchq.gov.uk/information/turing-challenge.
TM LIONS DEN Opening Hours for Donations
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long with many other organisations, TM Lions took the decision to close our charity shop when the level of infections rose in order to safeguard the welfare of our volunteers. We are keen to reopen as soon as possible but the welfare of our helpers is our priority. However, we realise many of you may be piling up donations for us and we thank you for this. We are now opening to receive donations only every Monday between 10am & 11:30am. We have Covid secure procedures to handle the donations and store the goods until we are able to offer them for sale. So, please bring along your donations of good quality second hand clothes, shoes, books, bric a bric, etc. The Den can be found a couple of doors away from Letters R Us beneath the Pepe La Sal supermarket on the Centro Comercial, Moraira, just past the fountain roundabout on Ctra Moraira-Teulada. There will be a collecting box if you would like to make a cash donation to support the good work that we do. We also have a GoFundMe page. You will find this at https://www.gofundme.com/f/teulada-moraira-lions. This can also be accessed via our website or FB page. If you are interested in finding out more about our work and possibly joining Teulada Moraira Lions, you can find more details on our website - www.tmlions.com. Volunteering can be a great way to meet people – we are currently holding meetings via Zoom but we still try to make it fun! Please get in touch if you are interested in joining us. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE DONATIONS OUTSIDE THE SHOP. We are not able to be there every day and we understand that some donations have ‘gone astray’.
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our ARIES Someone close is in trouble and if you are listening carefully to what they have to say you will be able to help them out without them having to ask for it. Trust your intuition about someone who is trying to change your mind about an important matter or person. TAURUS This can be the first of many successful months for you if you put your mind to it. Mundane jobs can be far from it if looked at with a different approach, one which will be brought home when seeing them from someone else's point of view. GEMINI Your eagerness to get things done will rub off on those around you and between you all you will achieve so much this month. Working as a team really does move things forward. CANCER Make this month the start of giving more time to you and your wellbeing. You have been concentrating on everyone else for long enough, now it is your turn. LEO The answers to many problems will fall into place this month as you start to see things from their point of view, and they start seeing things from yours. Now you can move forward together instead of pulling against each other all the time. VIRGO Things done in haste will be regretted, plan and do things carefully. Things said in haste can not be taken back, think before you speak this month. Important decisions should be left to others or put off for the time being as you really are not thinking things through at the moment.
Fe�a�e F���� Maga���e A���� 2021
oroscope LIBRA Do not make any hasty decisions this month without first talking things through with a loved one or someone you trust. Keeping your emotions in check will be hard, but you must or you will regret your actions. SCORPIO This month you are feeling better about things, although you know that there is still some way to go. Others may benefit from some of your positivity as they are not seeing things as anything but negative. Be careful to understand their situation though. SAGITTARIUS You are feeling much more sociable than you have for a long time. It is not the easiest time for making new friends at the moment, but reaching out to someone who is feeling a bit lost and lonely will start a friendship which will benefit both of you. CAPRICORN You have been watching everyone making changes to their homes and now feel it is your turn. For some of you this will mean some decorating or new furniture and for others moving home completely. AQUARIUS At last things are starting to pick up pace which is great for everyone. If you are feeling a little nervous about it all then talking to someone will help you realise that everyone is feeling the same to some degree. Together you will see this through, the worst is hopefully over now. PISCES Joint finances are at the fore with everyone needing to take their share of responsibility on keeping everything on track. Looking to the future will give you all something to look forward to after these tough times.
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SUDOKU
Here are four Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try. It is not a maths game at all - it is a pure logic game. Fill in the grid so that every r o w, e v e r y c o l u m n a n d e v e r y 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
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Female Focus Magazine April 2021
Everything you need ALL UNDER ONE ROOF
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Including an Angel
t last spring is showing itself and summer will be along before we know it. Yorkshire Linen is preparing for the change of seasons with a new collection of pastel and brightly coloured designs with back to nature themes from outdoors to indoors.
With family, friends and visiting renters coming to Spain this year, we now stock Beryl mattresses at very competitive prices which you can transport yourself as they are vacuum rolled. One side of the mattress is made up of a thick HR (High Resiliency) foam core for optimal support and memory foam padding which provides warmth in winter, and on the other side a layer of hypoallergenic fibres for breathability and freshness for those warm to hot summer nights. To give you another creative edge to dressing up your bedrooms, part of our new collection this season are designs released by Angel Strawbridge called The Chateau. Some of you will know that Angel and her husband did a very popular TV series on Channel 4 in the UK called Escape to The Chateau. It was while reforming this 45 room, 19th century French castle that Angel was inspired to create a soft furnishings range combining her vibrant personality with a vintage and art deco style. Yorkshire Linen’s advertisement on the front cover of this magazine shows a cushion from the Honeycomb range with embroidered bees. The Chateau products are made from 100% cotton and are available in both our Jávea and Altea shops. We continue to have colourful, patterned or plain coloured curtains in stock and our in-house seamstress will make sure they are the perfect length. If you would like privacy and light at the same time, we also have cordless blinds in white and beige. Yorkshire Linen has all the soft furnishings you need from outdoors to indoors and our experienced staff is always there to help you in any way they can. Come and see our new Spring / Summer Collection and get inspired!
● Centro Com. Mongtó, Avda del Pla 68, Jávea, T 966 462 275 Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00, Saturday 10.00 – 18.00
● Partida Planet 177, Altea, T 965 841 399
Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00, Saturday 10.00 – 14.00. www.yorkshirelinencostablanca.com
Fe�a�e F���� Maga���e A���� 2021
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Springtime pruning.
As I am writing this we currently have some fresh snow on the highest mountains of the Costa Blanca but the sunshine and change in daytime hours is definitely on its way. The temperatures haven’t been too bad at normal ground levels but still a little cool overall, but this is a good sign to me that after the rain we have had we will have a successful spring time bloom this year. NOW is the time to prune your plants.
Article supplied by Lee Charlesworth
I have to go through this discussion with many people and customers, as their gardeners may prune in October or November or any month of the year. The facts are that gardens need to be pruned at the right time of year and correctly if you want to get the most from them. Too many times I see bad decisions about the timing of pruning plants, which leaves them either full of dead wood, not growing in as healthy a manner as possible, or simply cutting off flowers. A pure lack of understanding of plants on the whole. Around October as many of you will know and appreciate, temperatures can start to drop quite cold, and with the exception of a few plants that flower through this period, most plants and trees effectively go into hibernation, which is understandable as the lack of sunshine and cold temperatures make them lie dormant, in a stasis to help protect them. This is fundamental laws of nature. This is why everything bursts into life in the springtime including plants and animals.
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Pruning in the winter simply stunts and slows growth, whereas pruning in the springtime encourages rapid growth. Some gardens may vary with their micro-climate, gardens that face entirely south may be a little ahead of those that face north or other orientations. The easy tell is when your plants start to re shoot, new stems of green and health. This means the plant is now successfully drawing sap, and that means that when you prune correctly (normally reducing the amount of stems on the plant) there is now a higher percentage of energy going into those stems, resulting in an explosion of growth. continued on next page
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Female Focus Magazine April 2021
It is acceptable to do some light trimming and tidying after summer as the plants may have excess growth, but trim is the word. Pruning should be reserved entirely for Springtime. As I said before, you don’t need to be an oracle of gardens and plants to understand the basic requirements for life. Nature tells us what to do and if you listen it will reward you. Happy Gardening. Charlesworth Gardens are the Costa Blanca´s leading garden design and Landscaping Company supplying designs, landscaping, plants, artificial grass and water features to turn your garden into an Oasis of life. ● 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.
SPEND LOCAL SHOP LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
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Looking for the perfect escape after a tough year? What better way than to curl up with a good book. View Amazon Kindle for 'FLAWED HERO' a romantic thriller with an edge written by fellow expat Eve Williams (pen name). I’d like to share with you the thrill of receiving an email from Kindle/ Amazon informing me that my debut novel ‘Flawed Hero’ is now live and available, in eBook and Paperback in their store.
The Arts Society Marina Alta next 'meeting'
I started writing the book, many moons ago, with some help from my husband who also wanted to write but, complained that as he found women such unfathomable creatures, he doubted his ability to make any heroine of his own creation, sufficiently convincing. However, he was confident that he could be of great help to me with regard to any male character I was working on. After a large G&T I managed to calm down and face facts — Bill was husband number four, it was blatantly obvious that a little more insight into the male psyche would do me no harm at all! Sadly, Bill became ill while work was in process and died in 2015. Since then I have done many rewrites. The book (which is a Romantic Thriller with an edge) owes its completion to a combination of: Loneliness, Brexit and Covid. It is sometimes funny, sometimes sad but, hopefully, always a compelling read. The story is about Ex. Special Forces soldier, Nick Burrows who is suffering psychological problems and is being bribed to commit a murder. Broke and embittered he finally decides to take the financially life changing job. But things don’t go quite to plan when he becomes obsessively attracted to his prey. The story has an unexpected outcome, which might break your heart, but not the bank. Flawed Hero is available now from Amazon and half of any net proceeds are to be donated to Cancer Research.
Thursday, 6th May at 11am. Underground Cathedrals: The World Class Art & Architecture of the London Underground. By: Ian Swankie The world’s first underground railway has a unique heritage of architecture, ingenious design, powerful advertising posters and unique calligraphy. This talk plots the early development of the Underground, examines the legacy of Frank Pick and Charles Holden, looks at some of the iconic posters, and celebrates the award-winning architecture of the modern Tube. For more information please visit our website www.marinaaltaarts.com or email: tasma.programme@gmail.com
Spot the odd one out
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Female Focus Magazine April 2021
AND YOU THOUGHT 'SKATING ON ICE' WAS DANGEROUS!
By Benny Davis
Viewers of the popular TV series, Dancing On Ice, would be aware of the heavy casualties suffered by contestants during the recent series. Four couples were replaced after a series of injuries and being testing positive with the dreaded Covid lurgy. All, no doubt, received their performance fees reported to be between 20/100,000 pounds. Poor luvvies! Probably at least another few weeks before they land their next lucrative contract while recovering in some sun-soaked island paradise. Meanwhile, I can reveal another group of entertainers who for the last 25 years have not only suffered a multitude of physical injuries, but also been victims of robbery, crowd mobbing, transport breakdowns and even a disappearing dressing room, and all fee-free for charity. Let me introduce you to, The Phoenix Dancers, an off shoot of Marcia’s School of Dance and Stage Academy situated in Calpe. Directed and choreographed by professional dancer, Phaedra Vaughan, the group were formed in 1997 from senior members of the school who volunteered to help raise funds for local charities. The long-legged, high kicking, glamorous girls were an instant success and today can boast of having raised over 10,000€ from performing in a variety of locations ranging from fields to balconies and cobblestone floors to street parades, restaurants, and private houses. The range of misfortunes encountered on their journey include car breakdowns, flu bug, and being allocated a service lift as a dressing room only to find it gone when rushing for a quick change. Also when performing the famous chair routine from the musical, `Cabaret´ finding, at the last minute, that their main props had been snatched from the wings to seat an overflow of audience members. Then there was the classic situation when dressed in Victorian crinolines, the sound engineer had a senior moment and inadvertently played the famous 42nd Street, tap dancing finale. However, our troupers accepted the challenge and managed to struggle through to great applause. Mind you, that was not as bad as arriving at a venue only to find it completely void of electricity, or in a couple of cases, closed with signs announcing cancelled performance. Over the years, many members have graduated to professionally perform on cruise ships, hotel cabaret, luxury casinos, top clubs and even with drag acts. Today, Phoenix consists of around ten ladies of mixed nationalities who perform a variety of routines ranging from glam sophisticated show girls to Bollywood, tap and hip hop to ballet. And how is this for name-dropping extracts from some of the hit show numbers they have staged? Hello Dolly, Cats, Wicked, Greece, Phantom of the Opera, Dirty Dancing, Showman, Masquerade, Blues Brothers, Moulin Rouge, and many others. Covid 19 excluded, at all times, they have faithfully followed the old show-biz adage that no matter what the circumstances, The Show Must Go On. Something sadly lacking with today's second tier so-called show-biz personalities. I doff my hat to both Marcia and Phaedra for their old-fashioned commitment to our local showbiz and charity scene.
Spot the 12 differences (answers in the classified pages)
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
www.femalefocusonline.com Oliva Drama: The groups latest pandemic production `Sunny Morning´ written by Serafin & Joaquin Quintero, is set in a Madrid park and tells the tale of two old lovers, re-united after a lifetime apart. Will they re-kindle their love? Well, they are meeting again on the morrow – if it’s a sunny morning! Go to www.olivadrama.com and click on the poster to listen. For more information, please email Kelvin on info@olivadrama.com, visit their website www.olivadrama.com or their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OlivaDrama.
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COSTA BLANCA NORTH
Note from Benny: Now looking forward to latest easing of restrictions that hopefully may allow productions in mothballs to be unwrapped and be staged by either late spring or summer. Some groups are using Zoom and bubble meetings to keep together. We need the amdram and music scene, we need their wonderful charity funding, and we need this true-Brit determination to continue regardless that the average age in most groups is in the older high-risk category. Please support these groups wherever they are in whatever way you can. Caprice Ladies Choir: Due to current restrictions, this choir is continuing with their zoom rehearsals at the moment but is hoping to get back to live rehearsals as soon as possible. They are looking forward to presenting some new songs hopefully sometime this year. For more information, please contact musical director Aileen on 696 514 613 or check their website: www.capriceladieschoir.com. Cantãmus: The choir, under the direction of Philip Ashley, are all set to embark on a new set of music to add to their growing repertoire. They hope to be able to once again present concerts in the autumn this year and hope to start live rehearsals again soon. As a safeguard, Philip provides all the music programme and tracks to members, allowing them to practice at home. Now would be a great time to contact Philip on 638 734 285 or Eileen 607 706 904 and they will be happy to give you all the details about the choir. They rehearse on a Monday morning 10:45 to 13:00. Careline Theatre: Are chomping at the bit to perform their latest pantomime `Sleeping Beauty´. At present, they are juggling dates for all the cast to be available and perform and get back into their theatre to get some refresher rehearsals going on lines, songs and dances. Are they ready to tread the boards? Oh yes, they are! Maybe next month. As soon as they can open the doors again, they we will publish dates and times via this column, Facebook, press and radio. Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir: The Choir are now rehearsing online every Wednesday, thanks to an innovative piece of software installed on their PCs and laptops by IT company `Dragonstack´, managed by their own Musical Director, John Edwards. The software enables all to hear the accompanist and MD, plus other members, from the isolation of their own homes, including those currently in the UK and unable to return to Spain. For more information about the choir visit their website: www.costablancamalevoicechoir.wikidot.com or contact Mike Evans: tikievans@gmail.com. Jávea Players: This friendly group welcomes anyone with an interest in theatre: actors, of course, but willing hands are also needed for a variety of tasks. Can you sew, handy with a hammer to make sets, interested in lighting? Whilst shows are still currently on hold due to Covid restrictions, if you would like to help with any of the above activities in the future, please contact them. For more information see: www.javeaplayers.com.
Phoenix Dancers: Although the Dancers are unable to rehearse at the moment, their choreographer and team of dress makers are hard at work planning future shows for you. They hope everyone is managing to keep safe and well and look forward to seeing you as soon as possible. If you would like to join them or learn more about the group please get in touch with Phaedra: 607 290 896. Sounds Familiar: Sounds Familiar have their next production `Magic Of The Musicals´ planned and will start rehearsing as soon as it is safe to do so. If you are interested in joining the group when rehearsals start, or would like more information, please contact Philip on 965 581 483 or philip@soundsfamiliar.es. Valley Voices: Altos and men are continuing to rehearse every Monday using Zoom with sopranos rehearsing on a Wednesday due to continuing Covid restrictions. They are continuing to trial software so that musical director, Aileen Lightfoot can actually listen and direct where necessary. If you enjoy singing, have found your inner voice during confinement and would like to meet others who enjoy singing, why not give them a ring on 634 301 483 or email valleyvoicesspain@gmail.com.
If you would like to be part of this band of charitable entertainers, please email editor@femalefocusonline.com. Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Full details of all Stage Diary entertainment groups are available online at www.femalefocusonline.com
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES SHOP LOCAL SPEND LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL
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Local Freemasons donate to HELP organisation of Denia and Moraira Recently, the Brethren of Arenal Deportiva Lodge made a much-needed donation of €250 from the Lodge charity fund to the local organisation, HELP of Marina Alta to help sustain many needy families who are suffering difficulties, many caused by the Covid pandemic and particularly for those unable to work at present. The donation was used to help thirty-five local families buy food and essential items and who, in total, numbered one hundred and four people including fourteen babies. The money was used to buy necessary shopping such as nappies and food which included, bags of chicken pieces, pork, minced beef, frankfurters, frozen fish, milk, powdered milk for babies, salad, tomatoes, cucumbers, red peppers, biscuits and much more. The Lodge was thanked most warmly by Ms Candida Wright, the president of the Marina Alta HELP organisation.
If you are a victim of domestic violence call 016 - there is a way out. “To care, comfort and counsel people affected by cancer.” CB Helpline. 634 311 690 Ass. Treasurer CB 634 374 754 Transport CB 634 303 271 Torrevieja. 602 648 486 www.mabscancerfoundation.com
HELP of 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 Jávea 634 388 446 Denia 609 336 473 Teulada/ Moraira 634 318 819 Parkinsons Support 634 301 677 HELP President 686 320 435.
SAMARITANS IN SPAIN
FREE PHONE 900 525 100
pat@samaritansinspain.com
Female Focus Magazine April 2021 The wonderful Ladies of the HELP Teulada Charity Shop, Avenida de la Mediterranea 37, Teulada, have been busy getting ready for the Grand ReOpening on Wednesday the 7th of April and look forward to seeing you all again.
The Calpe/Benissa Lions have been aware that during the last several months unemployment has been a financial burden to so many families. They have therefore maintained a substantial donation each month to Caritas Calpe, Caritas Benissa and also the Red Cross. The total amount donated by the Lions has been a staggering 45,000€! The picture shows Lions President Carole Saunders with representatives of Caritas and the Red Cross. Our second-hand shop in Pintor Sorolla, Calpe, has sadly been closed during this time but we are happy to announce that we shall be opening shortly and will, therefore be very grateful to receive any donations. We are always in need of good quality clothes, shoes, books, bric-a-brac and small items of furniture. If you have anything to donate which cannot be held on to until we re-open please call 639 637 520. The more we sell the more we can help those in need! Thank you. We are looking for volunteers to work in our charity shop in Teulada on Saturdays 10am until 1pm. Please contact our shop Manager Barbara on 634 307 385 or pop in to the shop on Avda. Mediterraneo Nº2, Teulada for more details. We are open Monday to Saturday 10am to 1pm.
Female Focus Magazine April 2021
www.femalefocusonline.com Page 30 or bureaucracy, we struggle with people’s perceptions versus our own reality.” In a new anthology of personal and powerful stories, ten Carrie wants people to re-consider the way the term ‘expat’ women share the emotional and practical realities of life away is used, believing that it has “now run its course, as it retains from ‘home’. These brutally honest essays cover the real connotations of privileged, financially mobile western white men experiences of women dealing with challenges away from the and women working abroad, or retirees relaxing on sun-soaked support structure of their place of birth. #LivingTheDream beaches. Nowadays, people are choosing to emigrate for a myriad aims to bust the myth of the perception of a ‘blessed’ life under of different reasons and some of us feel that being labelled an expat can set us apart from our adopted cultures when, in fact, we sunny skies and show the sometimes tougher reality. are trying to do exactly the opposite”. Grief, loneliness, Brexit, motherhood, Four stories from Spain identity, single parenthood, rootlessness, Four of the authors recount stories about the challenges of living in drinking culture and integration are Spain, each with their own unique perspective and focus. just some of the issues tackled in Business owner Deborah Gray tells the story of setting up a PR this collection of short stories. Editor agency in a new country and offers advice on how to manage Carrie Frais wanted to give a voice to business affairs. Bremain in Spain Chair Sue Wilson, discusses women living in Spain, France, Hong her Brexit legacy and how the referendum turned an aversion to Kong, Australia, Israel, Belgium, New politics into an obsession and why she now campaigns for the Zealand and the UK and reveal some rights of British citizens living across Europe. Journalist and of the emotional upheavals and struggles that go hand-in-hand Company Director Carrie Frais discusses grief and shares the with moving away from their native ‘home’, but until now have emotional and practical challenges when confronted with the remained largely untold. illness and subsequent loss of her parents in the UK whilst living in This project came from Carrie Frais’s increasing feelings of Barcelona. Finally, entrepreneur Jane Mitchell takes a very honest isolation during lockdown in Spain and her feelings of rootlessness look at the end of her marriage and how she has rediscovered her and a lack of belonging, exacerbated by her own grief and the identity, realising that divorce does not have to be the end but in reality of Brexit. She felt the need to connect, reach out and fact is the beginning of a new chapter of her life in Catalonia. encourage positive interactions and expose uncomfortable truths The power of honest story telling about the often misrepresented ‘expat’ existence. She explains, Especially in the COVID-19 era, expat lives are being put under “The women who have contributed to this collection of stories all increased pressure, and many people are feeling isolated and share the (often) rollercoaster experience of moving away from the disconnected. Carrie Frais hopes that the honest stories told in this country of their birth. We are sometimes viewed as courageous, book will encourage people to not feel alone and be more open uprooting ourselves from the security blanket of having one’s about their struggles. She hopes it will inspire people to share their extended family nearby to face new adventures and experiences own stories with their friends and family to enable them to obtain in far-flung corners of the world. Yet, our lives can be emotional, the support they need. confusing and challenging. When we experience anxiety, stress, insomnia, loneliness, fear or even depression caused by, amongst #LivingTheDream Expat Life Stripped Bare is now available on other things, culture shock, rootlessness, social exclusion, grief Amazon. Find out more on www.carriefrais.co.uk/books/
The truth behind ‘expat’ life
QUICK
CROSSWORD By the PA puzzles team Across Down 6. Afternoon 1. Swift (5) performance (7) 2. Failure (6) 7. Inferior (5) 3. Favourite (3) 9. Wash out (5) 4. Chessman (6) 10. Pad (7) 5. A wise man (7) 12. Booby prize (6,5) 8. Vegetables (7) 14. Go separate ways 11. Postpone (7) (4,7) 13. Poise (7) 18. Horse-soldiers (7) 15. Journey (6) 19. Vacant (5) 16. Figure (6) 21. Twist (5) 17. Scatter (5) 22. Pacify (7) 20. Sever (3) See classified pages for answers BULSE A Bag for diamonds B Pickled beef C Dissolute fellow
BLORE A Round of face B Sack-like outer garment C Violent gust of wind
ANSWER: A
ANSWER: B
BY PA PUZZLES TEAM
CAPUCHE A Franciscan monk B A large hood C Type of rodent
ANSWER: C
The word may sound familiar, but do you know what it means?
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Female Focus Magazine April 2021
Personal
P S Y C H O T H E R A P I S T CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT Psychotherapist for the confidential treatment of anxiety and depression. Plus couples therapy. Phone Tanya 634 35 48 92 to arrange an appointment. Visit www.feelgoodcs.com 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.
Health & Beauty SUFFERING FROM HAIR LOSS, Alopecia, male pattern baldness, scars? I have helped thousands of people regain their confidence. Non surgical, permanent hair loss solution. Book a 100% free no obligation consultation. Tel ( 0 0 3 4 ) 6 2 8 1 0 1 7 11 o r www.scalpmastery.com 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
Misc Sales 1 2 D E C O R AT I V E P L AT E S , Complete Set (12) "Beauties of the Red Mansion". Signed Authentication Certificates. 60 Euros. Telephone: 966 474 641. Els Poblets 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 966 447 002 or find us on Facebook at 'Paul's Emporium Pedreguer'.
Auto Sales FORD TORNEO CUSTOM Ford Tourneo Custom LWB 9 seater mini bus. First registered June 2014. ITV September 283676 kms hence 7250 Euros Tel. 639 739 799. Jávea area.
For more classified adverts visit www.femalefocusonline.com Wanted 3 BED VILLA WANTED I want to buy an independent villa in Ciudad Quesada, Rojales, Benijofar area, with 3 bedrooms, to reform. Please call 655 85 96 70. I BUY RECORDS LPs, EPs, SINGLES. 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s years. Good prices paid. Tel. 962 851 809 - 622 750 117.
JENNY'S CLEANING SERVICES. Established since 2014. Fully l egal , r ef er ences av a i l a b l e . General house cleaning, change overs, deep cleans and builders cleans. New Fogging Disinfection Service now available. Covering Denia, Javea and surrounding villages. (English and Spanish spoken) Call now 633 624 232 www.jennyscleaningservices.com HARRIS FURNISHINGS - British furniture store offering a fabulous range of quality furniture including sofas, chairs, corner sofas, sofa beds, recliners, rise-recliners, beds, coffee tables etc. Famous brand names including Parker Knoll. Pedreguer Ind. Estate. 96 646 9371 sales@harrisfurnishings.com INSURANCE SPECIALISTS FULLY COMP CAR INSURANCE from 279€. For all your insurance needs: house, home, business, marine, car, health. Call Insurance Altea 96 584 0753 BUILDING & PLUMBING SERVICES. No job to big or small, from a re-grout to a new build. Experienced and all work guaranteed. Call Nicholas 696 949 220. AWNINGS, BLINDS, MOSQUITO nets, Commercial & Garage doors, Shower screens & doors. PERSITOLD provide solutions for sun protection and comfort. Showroom in Gata de Gorgos. Many examples at www.persitold.es 96 575 6281 / 669 859 572 or email info@persitold.es C O M P L E T E B AT H R O O M REFORMS Whole project managed by in-house team. 24 years experience. Also specialist in shower and bath screens. Many satisfied customers. Call SHOWERMAN. 96 579 2285 / 639 292 081 or email info@showermanspain.com UPHOLSTERY SERVICE Tired or broken furniture? From small repairs to complete recovers for home, garden, car or boat. Indoor & outdoor cushion covers. Pergola and parasol covers. Leather and fabric cleaning. Pedreguer Industrial Estate. 96 646 9371 or email: sofamedico@harrisfurnishings.com.
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION Specialised in residential property refurbishment. Kitchens/ Bathrooms, Windows /Doors, Reforms/ Extensions, Electrics/ Plumbing, Tiling/ Terraces, Roofing/ Rejas, Tosca Specialists. Over 30 years experience. All areas Gandia to Benidorm and Inland. w w w. s o v e r e i g n - c o n s t r u c t i o n . com 662 097 598 or email: sovereignconstruction@gmail.com GLAZING & AWNING SPECIALISTS All kinds of glazing systems, roofing solutions and awnings, windows, arched windows, conservatories, doors and interior glass doors. Call 96 645 7878 or email info@amasvista.com
Q U A L I T Y B L I N D S S PA I N www.qualityblindsinspain.com is a family run business, supplying and fitting made to measure blinds on the costa. Tel: 965 701 984 Mobile: 658 338 123.
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Female Focus Magazine April 2021
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PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
Very easy
Medium
Easy
Hard
QUICK CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS Across: 6 Matinee; 7 Minor; 9 Rinse; 10 Cushion; 12 Wooden spoon; 14 Part company; 18 Cavalry; 19 Empty; 21 Screw; 22 Quieten. Down: 1 Rapid; 2 Fiasco; 3 Pet; 4 Bishop; 5 Solomon; 8 Turnips; 11 Adjourn; 13 Balance; 15 Travel; 16 Number; 17 Strew; 20 Cut. ANSWER TO SPOT THE ODD ONE OUT: D
Computers
Autos And Boats
www.femalefocusonline.com Services Cont. NEED A SURVEY? Call Advantage Building Services if you are buying a property, or have structural problems with a property you already own. Subsidence cases investigated, insurance claims mediated and processed. 653 733 066 or email mrmpaddon@hotmail.com or find further information at www.surveyorscostablanca.com EXCAVATION, GROUNDWORK & CONSTRUCTION Call AD Lawton for all your plant hire needs. Specialist in drainage, groundworks and septic tank systems. 648 052 911 or visit www.adlawtonconstrucciones.com WATER FILTER SYSTEMS Whole House & Undersink Water Filter Systems. Reduce Your Plastic Waste & Have Clean Filtered Water From All Taps In Your Home While Also Protecting Appliances From Limescale Buildup. Tel: 681 315 659. Web: www.aqualyze.es. S I M P LY D O O R S . F a m i l y r u n business our products range from external Doors, internal doors, sliding wardrobe doors, upvc windows and conservatories tel 96 671 8738 or 671 260 204. www.simplydoors.es. GLAZE N SAVE convert your single glazed windows and doors to double glazed units without changing the frames. Very cost effective and a clean process. This is not secondary glazing. For more information call Gary on 662 455 960 or 96 671 2832 email gary@glazensave.es. Web: www.glazensave.es. 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.
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Fe�a�e F���� Maga���e A���� 2021
MAN AND VAN for hire, cheap & reliable. Jalon valley & surrounding areas. 96 648 0757 (9.30-1.30) or 636 100 873. 3 BED VILLA WANTED I want to buy an independent villa in Ciudad Quesada, Rojales, Benijofar area, with 3 bedrooms, to reform. Please call 655 85 96 70. For Sale – Harrys Bar, Quesada. Unique opportunity to purchase this well established popular bar / restaurant. Freehold. Call Joanne for information on 693 494 951. ACHIEVE RENTAL INCOME from your property. For more than 35 years Aguila Rent A Villa SL has specialised in holiday rentals in Javea, Denia and surroundings. Trusted and professional. 96 647 0830 Email: mail@aguilarent.com or visit www.aguilarent.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 Magazine.)
START YOUR DAY WITH A
GREAT NIGHT’S SLEEP
Quality Beds & Linen from Budget to Luxury
Where dreams begin C.C. Biblos Local 8 VISIT ONLINE or IN PERSON Ctra. Calpe-Moraira, Email: info@thebedcentre.com Los Pinos 1K www.thebedcentre.com (Coast Road) Calpe Tel: 965 836 814 695 708 101 Showroom Hours 10am-3pm Mon-Sat FREE DELIVERY 3pm-5pm Mon-Fri (by Appointment) Gandia to Alicante
All adverts must be sent with your Name and NIE or Passport Nº (not published). 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 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: See property section for more details. Commercial adverts: Minimum advert length ten words. 35 cents per word plus 21% IVA per month. Payment can be made by credit card or transfer. *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.
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Pets
www.femalefocusonline.com
Have you booked your space in the Coast's leading Print Directory? Marina Alta Edition: 15,000 copies per issue on high quality gloss A4 paper every six months. Vega Baja Edition: 15,000 copies per issue in high quality gloss B5 paper every six months.
Hi, my name is Tigre, and I am a tall male galgo. A bit shy, but I am easy going and ready for a new family. If you are looking for a slightly smaller dog, we have podencos and galgos. For more info please email: stichtingtanamera@gmail.com or find them on Facebook (Tanamera Rescue)
We have many cats and kittens available for adoption. Shelter open every Sunday 10am 12pm or call Luisa 648 100 629. Denia Cat Protection League – Aldea Felina, please visit http://www.aldeafelina.es
Cassie is a beautiful female GSD. 9/10 years old. She is a happy confident girl ready to go to a home of her own. Call 650 304 746 or email p.e.p.a.animalcharity@gmail.com
Sammy is a super friendly dog and very sweet and loving. He does however, need a cat, rabbit and chicken free home! He is castrated, vaccinated, house-trained and has a passport. Please contact Akira on 657 689 567 or email akirashelter@aol.com if you could offer him a forever home.
Meet Our Horses! Join us on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings at APAC Rescue Horses to see the horses and help support us. Everyone Welcome. For more information email apacprotectora@gmail.com, visit www.apac-cv.com or Facebook: Apac Rescue Horses.
Benidorm Animal shelter has many cats desperate for a home, food, medicines, volunteers. If you are interested in adopting, donating or volunteering please contact 685 524 049 or visit Protectora de Animales Benidorm, Mon to Fri 10am-2pm.
Ronald is Spanish Mastin, typical of his breed, territorial and can be very stubborn. He needs to be treated with respect, once you have gained this you have the best friend for life. Nearly 5, both cat and dog friendly, castrated and no health issues. Please contact apropego@gmail.com or call 654 616 043. Calling all clubs and charities - let us know about your forthcoming events and animals for adoption. See page 4 for contact details.
Parsley, Podenco, DOB 05.2012 - 59cm. Parsley loves his walks and people and would be a wonderful dog to accompany you on long walks and on all kinds of sports. He is a stunner, is as good as gold and loves to snuggle up in his bed. Please call 618 754 635 or visit www.apasa.eu.
This has to be one of the most successful magazine launches on the Costa Blanca, incorporating professional and trade services.
Demand is high for this magazine. Pages are sold on a first come first served basis. The magazine is also published as an online digital magazine with ‘live’ links, where readers are one click away from your website and Facebook page therefore one click away from becoming your client.
Marina Alta and Vega Baja editions - out end of April 2021, don't miss your chance!
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
www.femalefocusonline.com Property Services and Sales
SAVE MONEY ON YOUR OVERSEAS MONEY TRANSFERS Call Sherry Fraser-Currie 96 626 5072 or email:sherry.f@currenciesdirect.com
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Female Focus Magazine April 2021