QFocus magazine September 2021 by Female Focus Publications

Dep. Legal A-685-2016

E FR E

September 2021

Female Focus Publications serving the English speaking community throughout the Costa Blanca since 1993

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ELCHE - THE SHOE CAPITAL OF SPAIN WASPI

Women Against State Pension Inequality

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Your Horoscopes Your Local Community News Puzzles - Recipes Legal - Astronomy A View From The Top Finance - Health & Beauty Local Business Reviews Club & Charity News Classiﬁed Adverts And So Much More BROUGHT TO YOU BY....

QFocus Magazine September 2021

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THE WINNERS OF OUR SMARTPHONE ASTRONOMY PHOTO COMPETITION

t long last I can show you the 2 winners of our competition that's been running for the last few months. I had about 30 photos sent to me, which isn't bad for such a specialist field. The 2 pictures are very different, one is of the supermoon, taken over an urbanisation. At first you may think it's an odd choice, but I love the care and timing taken with the position of the moon over the building. I also like the way the exposure is set to make the Moon into a huge splash of light. Well done to Grace Thomas, you obviously have an eye for a great photo.

My second choice was taken by Mark Cook and is of the full Moon. I'm always banging on about the full moon being a difficult time to take a photo, there are no shadows to emphasise the detail. This shot however stands out from so many others. There is a little editing with standard Windows photo viewer to improve the contrast, and the result is terrific. Taken with an iPhone and the photo app I mentioned here a few months ago, the phone is supported so there's no camera shake. It shows what can be achieved by anyone with a standard phone and some patience and imagination, a great result.

A STING IN THE TAIL

I'll continue now with our ongoing look at the constellations of the zodiac, This month it's Scorpio. In September you can find Scorpio not far above the horizon between south and southwest just after full sunset. It's a tricky constellation to make out, a long wiggly set of stars that are best identified with the aid of a book or guide on your phone. Luckily there is a stand out star to help you get your bearings. Antares is a big bright red supergiant star, 300 times bigger than the Sun, so bright in fact that although it takes light 365 years to reach us, it still stands out. Antares has another star orbiting it, only twice as big as the Sun, it orbits so close that it is passing right through the hydrogen atmosphere of Antares. Can you imagine how amazing that must look from any planet nearby? Stars are officially identified with Greek letters, the star delta Scorpio, also has an old Arabic name, Dschubba. Looking a little to the right and up from Antares, you'll see Dschubba, it translates very loosely as 'the Scorpion’s brain', if you find this variable star, you'll know which way round the scorpion is facing. At the other end is the star Shaula, the Scorpion’s sting, it's 270 light years away, but still pretty bright. There is plenty more to find in the Scorpion, a good star book or website will help if you want to learn more. Telescope users might want to find the star cluster M4, it can be tricky so near the horizon, but it is rewarding to find. I've mixed feelings about M4, it was in one of my examinations more years ago than I care to remember, but I got it in the end and passed. Scorpio photo courtesy of the star name registry. That's quite enough for this month, time to go outside and look up, enjoy your my Group Charles Oates, Vega Baja Astrono stargazing.

● To find out more about observing and astronomy, email us at vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com.

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QF�� Maga��e Se��e��e� 2021

How different our world is from two years ago. I was personally concerned at the speed that many people were living at, the pollution, climate change and very few people seemed to be contented with their lives. I am a firm believer in Mother Nature turning round on us, trying to give us warnings but of course, everybody was too busy in the world, trying to make money, no time to look over their shoulders, to discover what was happening. Then a huge bomb exploded in the name of COVID. Unfortunately, it took a while for the various governments to react, and it started to take over, with many becoming ill and sadly death was always round the corner. The consequences of COVID will probably always be us, with new variants, and life will never feel the same. On a positive side, I have heard many times that people have discovered the beauty around them and there are many fighting for climate change, especially among the young. The reaction to COVID has been very demanding on the authorities and very sadly the everyday illnesses and conditions have had to take a back seat which of course, must be very frightening for those who have a health problem. At the same time, BREXIT was sort of forgotten but more and more issues are beginning to come to light, usually to the detriment of the UK. For example, empty shelves, and horrors – chickens seem to be disappearing from certain restaurants. However, we have another tragedy - Afghanistan. When I look at the soldiers who have been badly injured and think of the ones who died, I along with many, especially the military, are horrified at the speed at which everything is happening there. So much was given by the forces to try and keep the Taliban out, but our politicians had other thoughts and we are already seeing the consequences. Once again, the risk of terrorism could be on the rise. Nothing is easy but if after reading this, you think the time has come to make sure that you and your family are protected from whatever is around the corner. If in doubt, now is the time to ensure all your documents and paperwork are correct and what is the best you can do for your family. ● Need any help, just call us on 966 461 690, email info@jennifercunningham.net or visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net.

QF�� Maga��e Se��e��e� 2021

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It has been a very hectic past few weeks with birthdays and having friends from the UK over. In celebration of my angel turning sweet sixteen we had a day trip to Safari Aitana which is just inland from Villajoyosa. If you haven't already been, I would highly recommend this is put on your "Things to do" list. It is a vast area of open land with most of the animals free to roam, although obviously the dangerous animals are in fenced areas. As you drive through the safari there are certain stop areas where you can get out of the car and get up close and personal while the keepers give you information on the animals. There is a cafeteria / restaurant but also a large picnic area so you can take your own lunch and also a little play area so the kids can have a little run around. All in all a fabulous day out for all the family. With the summer almost over and the kids returning to school it won't be long before we start the countdown to Christmas... Where does the time go?? Until next time... Michelle QFocus Magazine covering the Alicante South region and the Female Focus covering the Alicante North region. Discuss your advertising with your local representative:-

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CROSSWORD Across

7 Hardly extreme (7) 8 Aviator (5) 9 Norway, to its inhabitants (5) 10 Put in the ground (7) 11 Rounded projections along an edge (8) 14 Grind down (4) 16 Reverse command (4) 17 Wise Tsar redirects one who takes orders (8) 20 Warm air current (7) 22 Enhance (5) 24 Former Portuguese territory in South China (5) 25 Cart driver (7) Down 1 Film-festival locale (6) 2 Half a shout of approval? (4) 3 Graceful antelope (7) 4 1965 Beatles film (4) 5 Little (4-4) 6 It has a bit (6) 8 Young horse (4) 12 Formal interview (8) 13 Placed under a fairy tale mattress (3) 15 Drunken Gran set about alien (7) 16 Period during which a machine is running (6) 18 One on watch (6) 19 Rounds (4) 21 Salacious (4) 23 Has (4) See classified pages for answers

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QFocus Magazine September 2021

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QUARTERLY ANNOUNCEMENT - 25th August 2021 provided by an Investment Product Provider extremely well known to British expats:

There is no change to Expected Growth Rates (EGR) of the International Bond applied to investor's accounts daily, as follows, AFTER charges:

Growth (Sterling) Fund Cautious (Sterling) Fund Growth (Euro) Fund Cautious (Euro) Fund

3.3% p.a. 2.4% p.a. 2.4% p.a. 1.6% p.a.

(note: The above is what new investors would receive and investors of over 5 years would receive 1.2% p.a. more See advert below for more information than published rates above) In addition to the above returns on your money the investments are very simple for investors. wrapped in a Spanish Tax Compliant investment product designed • Portable, should you move back to UK. for Spanish resident ex-pats and this will give you the following • Minimum investment £20,000 or €25,000 or US$35,000. benefits: • 1.5% allocation bonus for investments over £150,000 • Mechanism employed by the Provider smooths returns. Excellent (immediately worth £152,250). 0.5% allocation bonus for for inexperienced investors and historically vastly better than bank investments over £75,000. interest returns. • Option to give a regular monthly or quarterly withdrawal of 5% Please call me for information on investment solutions for your p.a. penalty free, giving peace of mind for the regularity of a set circumstances (minimum £20,000/€25,000) or about pension transfers to enable flexible access (take what you want when you income. want rather than being drip-fed your own money). • Avoidance of Spanish inheritance tax liabilities between spouses if written as a joint policy and everything is held in Ireland i.e. David Diggle C.A.T. DipFA. Tel: 615 607 278 / 865 751 713. outside of Spain. Avenida Federico Garcia, 101, Benijofar, 03178, Alicante, • Named UK resident beneficiaries will only pay Inheritance tax South Costa Blanca. Email: info@daviddiggle.es / dave. per UK rules on the passing of this bond. In most cases this will diggle@seagatewealth.es Website: www.daviddiggle.es / www. seagatewealth.es be Nil. • All income tax deduction and reporting and Modelo 720 asset We work in conjunction with fully regulated and authorised reporting is done for you in Spain by the Product Provider. This is companies.

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Rezum: Pioneering prostate treatment technology at Quirónsalud Alicante

uirónsalud Alicante has employed the pioneering Rezum technique for treating benign prostate hyperplasia. Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) - also called prostate gland enlargement - is a common condition as men get older. An enlarged prostate gland can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, such as blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder. It can also cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems. The Rezum technique is a minimally invasive, fast and safe procedure that does not require hospital admission. The revolutionary treatment is now available in Quirónsalud Alicante Hospital’s Urology Department, allowing the treatment of BPH without impacting the patient’s urinary system or sexual function. The technique lasts approximately 10 minutes, and is performed through the urethra under controlled sedation. The treatment consists of the injection of water vapour into the prostate, which causes tissue necrosis (cell death), solving the problems caused by the growth of the prostate in the patient and eradicating related symptoms. The goal of the medical team of urology professionals at Quirónsalud Alicante and Quirónsalud Torrevieja hospitals is to treat BPH in the least invasive way possible. Thus, the Rezum and green laser techniques employed by Quirónsalud are both effective and efficient.

What is benign prostate hyperplasia? Prostate hyperplasia is benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of the prostate gland, and it is a common disorder in men. So much so that it affects more than 50% of the male population between 50 and 60 years of age, and up to 90% of men over 80 years of age. Who is the Rezum system suitable for? Treatment with the Rezum technique is indicated for patients with Benign Obstructive Hyperplasia who do not want to continue with the drug treatment and the secondary effects caused by the medication (impotence, decreased libido, hypertension…). It is also suitable for young patients; patients at high risk of bleeding; and with other illnesses or undergoing treatment for other conditions.

QFocus Magazine September 2021

This technique represents a great advance in the treatment for benign prostate hyperplasia and a hope for men with this condition who are concerned about the preservation of the functions of their prostate. Advantages of the Rezum technique The benefits of the Rezum technique, as it is a minimally invasive technique, are many: - Safe and effective procedure, reducing side effects. - Low risk of bleeding and complications. - Alternative to strong oral medication and traditional surgery. - Administered under sedation. - Short surgical time. - It does not require hospitalisation (outpatient regime). - Progressive improvement of urinary symptoms with rapid recovery and return to normal daily life. - It does not produce sexual impotence or definitive urinary incontinence. - Preservation of ejaculation in 95% cases. To determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for the Rezum technique, they must first have a consultation with the urology specialist. It is advisable for men over 40 years of age who feel discomfort, even minimal, to carry out an annual check-up with the urologist to rule out any type of problem. Quirónsalud Alicante Urology Service The Urology Service of the Hospital Quirónsalud Alicante has the team and the necessary technology to address diseases of the urinary and retroperitoneal system in men and women. More information at info.alicante@quironsalud.es or by phone: 966 972 900.

Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja. Partida de la Loma, s/n, 03184 Torrevieja. Tel: 966 921 313, email: info.torrevieja@quironsalud.es. www.quironsalud.es. See our main advert on page 5.

QFocus Magazine September 2021

www.femalefocusonline.com Page 8 • In Almeria area, the building work needs to be over 6 years old. • In Alicante area, the building work needs to be fter the famous event of a neighbour denouncing over over 4 years old, before 20th 1000 unlicensed extensions back in 2019, we have had the August 2014 (over 11 years first case of illegal building denouncing frenzy, this time approximately). local to the area, in Rojales, Alicante, in a predominantly English • No retrospective licences can be issued for extensions that have Community. already been fined. Two neighbours got upset with the Community after being Currently the process for obtaining a Retrospective Licence is denounced whilst doing small extensions at their properties and straightforward. Once confirmed, Martinez de la Casa Architects subsequently fined by the authorities. will arrange an appointment to survey the pool/ extension requiring Full of anger and seeking revenge against the local Town Hall and only your NIE and current Title Deeds. Back in our office we check the Community, they took the courageous decision to denounce the age of the pool using satellite images (pictured is an example every single unlicenced extension in the state. Both the denouncers used in the process for Antiquity Certification) along with the and the denounced are predominantly English, living in basically measurements and documentation we take during our on-site visit. an English Community. The Retrospective / Certificate of Antiquity is stamped by the Avoiding being fined in Spain is essential because of the high Official College of Architects or Notarised and delivered within quantities for fines (a fine for a 20 square metre shed, can easily 10 working days (guaranteed). reach 6,000€.) but even worse, a demolition order can stay within The price of a Pool Retrospective Licence (Certificate of Antiquity) the land registry files for over 15 years (depending on the area), is 190€+IVA (229 € IVA Inc) and for Extensions 270€+IVA (326 € potentially ruining the sale of the property. IVA Inc, all extensions in the property included). Some of the neighbours are calling us in panic to issue retrospective Martinez de la Casa Architects is the Number 1 company for licences, but for others is too late and the authorities have already Architectural Certification Southern Spain, including Energy sent them fines and demolition orders. Performance Certificates (121€ inc IVA) and Number 1 Company Not all property owners that have done building work without for Habitation/Occupation Licences (prices depending on each a licence are entitled to obtain retrospective licence, being the Town Hall). conditions: For all enquiries or to arrange an appointment please call us • In Murcia area, the conditions in order to obtain a Retrospective on 665 810 411 (English) or visit www.martinezdelacasa.com Licence is that the building work already carried out is a minimum to see an impressive list of over 200 testimonials by different of 4 years old. clients.

First cases of Unlicenced Extensions Denouncing Frenzy Between Neighbours in the Area.

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Book Review by Ivor Kindle Title: War With Russia Author: General Sir Richard Sherriff Publisher: Coronet. A Political thriller that is dangerously close to becoming reality. Russia is determined to recover its former Baltic states. It uses the pretext that it is protecting it's oppressed Russian speaking people. That ruse worked in Ukraine where the Crimea is now held by Russian troops. Next on the list are Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Russia sees NATO as being weak, gambling that it will not implement Article 5 which states, "An attack on one member state is an attack on all".

Finca la Castellana A n i m a l W e l f a r e Centre are very excited to announce the launch our new sponsorship program.

For 5€ per month (for 12 months), or a one-off payment of 55€ (covering a year membership) you can become a 'Finca Friend' and help us look after all the animals that live at the finca. We have around 300 animals, including dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, goats, pigs, chickens, peacocks, ducks, and parrots that will live their life out at the finca. They stay with us mostly due to physical or psychological issues, or we are unable to rehome them. The monthly cost to feed these animals can be up to 3,000€. By joining our 'Finca Friends' team you can have an important and active role in making sure they all receive the care and attention each animal deserves, relieving the financial burden we, like many other animal charities endure. When you sign up you will receive a welcome letter, car sticker and a framed photo of your chosen sponsored animal. Throughout the year you will also receive a birthday card with an update of your animal, and a Christmas card. You can sponsor an animal as a gift for a family member or friend! Please visit our revamped website to become a 'Finca Friend' www.fincalacastellana.org, the more money we raise, the more animals we can save.

QF�� Maga��e Se��e��e� 2021 The author is a retired NATO commander who chastises the British Government for its running down of British forces to such a level that any response to an external threat probably would be out of reach for today's British military. This book exposes many difficult questions... It is actually like reading an intelligence report on Europe's military problems... It is that realistic.

Keep reading, Ivor Kindle.

QFocus Magazine September 2021

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A View From The Top

elcome to my monthly column “A view from the top”. Hopefully you will find my rambling readable (maybe even enjoyable). You may agree or you may disagree with my views, I care not. These are my views long held and forged over a life time of work, travel and experience. Now that’s over let’s have a look at what is really winding me up.

It’s a Dog’s Life. Hello Dear Reader. Now, if you managed to get a copy of the August QFocus Magazine then you will know of the trouble I had with an errant cat (gato) that bit me when I was trying to get it out of my enclosed back garden. Just for information the medication had the desired effect as did the injections and the infection in my hand has finally cleared up. The course of Tetanus injections goes on with another two jabs scheduled. As a consequence of the cat incident, I started to think about my life to date in respect of the pets that I have enjoyed over the course of my seventy years on planet Earth. If you know me then you will be aware of the love both myself and my family have always had for the company of animals. In my case I still remember my first family dog, he was a mongrel called Bingo, a terrier type that my Mum had got from Battersea Dogs Home (now Dogs and Cats Home). Thinking back, I must have been about seven years old when Bingo came into my life. Again, thinking back I cannot remember just how long Bingo and me were together. What I do remember is that on one Sunday morning way back in the early sixties, my Mother had taken myself and my younger sister to Sunday Church at "The Holy Apostles" Pimlico. Bingo was left outside while we attended the service. As we were waiting for the ceremony of "Holy Communion" we were alerted by a minor disturbance at the back of the Church, someone had opened the door and Bingo had decided he would come into the church to find us. However, before he found us, he took it upon himself to bound onto the altar and to start barking at Father Hadfield as he was blessing the Holy Sacrament in preparation for the communion ceremony. Bingo was captured by my Mother, and to this day I can still hear her cry "Bloody Dog" as she marched him off the altar and, with us, out of the church. Bingo went out of my life. I suspect he was returned to the dogs home in disgrace. During my teen years animals were not really a part of my life

www.femalefocusonline.com as we were moved into a council flat and the rules in them days were, no animals in council flats. Move forward to when myself and Er Indoors bought our first house together. 1981 (I think), we had a nice garden, not over large but big enough to accommodate a lovely Dazzling Border Collie called Quincy. Quincy moved on with us when we moved from Thornton Heath (Surrey) to Hayling Island in Hampshire. We had many, many wonderful years as a young family with both children and the marvellous Quincy. I do understand that people have their own opinions about dogs and dog breeds, but in our case once you have had a Border Collie then you are smitten forever. Hayling was perfect for living the outdoor lifestyle, lovely open countryside as well as a fabulous beach front onto the ocean. Quincy went everywhere with us and the kids. My best memory of Quincy is of our Sunday morning walk around a close adjacent field. Our mission was to collect the treefall apples and pick the wild brambles, after an hour or so and a good walk we would return home with the ingredients for our Sunday pudding of Apple and berry crumble. Like all good things in life Quincy lived until he was 12/13 years old, and he then sadly passed on. Life moved on and our family upped sticks and moved to our current home here in Spain. We lived initially in a small flat whilst our house was being built. When at last we moved into our new house with its nice big garden it soon became obvious that what was missing was a dog. As luck would have it a good friend of ours told us of a poster she had seen that was offering puppy Border Collies for sale. Contact with the seller was made, and into the family came "Crespo" a lovely boy Border Collie. Crespo was our name, but his actual registered name was "Sprit of the Air". Crespo lived a happy and hopefully fulfilling life with us and our cat Zola. He enjoyed his daily walks around the fields of Rojales/ Benijofar - when we walked it was amusing to see Zola the cat walking along with us. Sadly, when he was about eight Zola passed on to Pussycat Heaven and we were left with Crespo on his own. To help ease the loss of Zola, my eldest and his other half went on a scouting mission and in the far North of the Valencian Community they found a horse stud farm that used Border Collies as an aid to move the horses around the Farm. The versatile and intelligent Border Collie, when working with horses, is taught to nip at their feet to move them on. The farm had had a recent birth of Border Collie puppies and yes, you have guessed, into our family came "Aron de Chivacana", or as we called him "Santos". As a family we spent many happy years together with both Crespo and Santos living in our house with its large garden, which easily accommodated our family and our two Border Collies. Time passed and once again sadly Crespo passed on at around 13 years old. The family also grew, and the kids left home. Myself and Er Indoors decided that the time had come for a move to a smaller more manageable home. The move took place, and it was in our house of now almost five years that our lovely Santos recently passed on to Doggie Heaven, aged about 12 years, to join Quincy and Crespo. All in all our time together, myself and Er Indoors, has always been with the company of dogs, and yes of course, three years ago Er Indoors whilst walking on the Benijofar riverbank with her friend came across a tiny bedraggled puppy that had been dumped. That tiny, bedraggled dog is our current Irish Terrier "Fonzie". Someone somewhere has deemed that we are people who should live alongside dogs. Are we glad that it seems to have been deemed so? You bet we are. Keep well everybody and keep safe and if you are a person who loves dogs and animals in general then God Bless You.

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QFocus Magazine September 2021

Visit Elche - the shoe capital of Spain D id you know around 42% of shoes produced in Spain are made in Elche? A trip to this shoe capital is a must if you love shoes and quality brands.

Elche is home to more than 1,000 shoe factories while the neighbouring city of Elda is another famous shoemaking centre and home to the José María Amat Amer Footwear Museum.

The museum in Elda houses an enormous collection of shoes and machinery used to make footwear. There is even a collection of famous shoes from celebrities such as Julio Iglesias, Rafa Nadal, Andrés Iniesta, the Duchess of Alba and Pope John XXIII. You can see shoes being made at arguably the largest shoe factory outlet in Europe, Salvador Artesano in Calle Almenara on the edge of Elche. Here you can learn about making shoes - and buy brands at knockdown prices. The outlet sells its own brands - Wisconsin, Salvador Artesano, Esther Méndez, Dimo and Domenico Pedone - as well as some of the best brands including Levi's, Mustang and Geox. Further along the N340 heading towards Alicante airport is Elche Business Park in Torrellano, home to 319 companies including shoe brands including Pikolinos, Panama Jack, Mustang, Geox and Gioseppo. Pikolinos has a museum as well as a shop where you can move through the history of shoemaking. History of Elche shoe industry Until the middle of the 19th century, Elche was still an agricultural city. Some landowners, realising there was little money to be made in farming, diversified into making espadrilles from the local esparto grass. To compete with thriving shoe industries in other parts of Spain, they decided to specialise. Elche concentrated on men's shoes and budget footwear. Elda became known for its glamorous women's shoes and Villena focused on the children's market. In the 1960s, Elche shoes conquered the international market and in the 1990s the council set up an industrial estate in Torrellano where modern factories could be built. Elche is also home to the largest palm grove in Europe with more than 200,000 trees. Make time to visit the city centre and the Elche palm grove during your trip. Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

QFocus Magazine September 2021

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COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Note from Benny: Things are looking up. Easing of covid restrictions have given a ray of light to our amdram board-treaders. Smiles all round, including those cash starved charities who have also suffered from the lack of entertainment programmes revenue. Good luck all. Actors Community Theatre Society: Finally, ‘Ladies Day’ is booked at The Cardinal Belluga Teatro in San Fulgencio. The production will be staged on Thursday 28, Friday 29 and Saturday 30 October. Tickets are available at 10€ at outlets in La Marina, Ciudad Quesada, Benimar, Benijofar and Villa Martin, details on their Facebook page ACTS Actors Community Theatre. Alternatively, phone, WhatsApp or text 602 683 925 or email actstheatre@icloud.com to book your tickets. Campoverde Theatre Group: The Group unfortunately are not yet able to rehearse as their Council owned venue, is still not open and may remain closed for some time due to a problem with the building. Meanwhile Zoom meetings are still in progress as all are keen to get into the acting singing mode once again. Further information will be published as soon as it is available. Cantabile Ladies Choir: New members in all parts, are always welcome especially sopranos, the only requirement is the ability to sing in tune in this friendly, three-part female choir. Contact: valbeange@gmail.com Phone: 966 795 816. Mobile: 648 034 232. Rehearsals usually take place in La Siesta Church, Torrevieja, Fridays 14:45 - 17:00 from September to May.

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Lyrical Mixed Voice Choir: Rehearsals will be continuing every Wednesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm at La Zenia Church. Their repertoire features classical through to well-loved show numbers, so why not pop along and join them? New singers are always welcome. An ability to read music and to be able to hold your own tune in 4-part harmony are distinct advantages. For more up-todate information, please contact Trent Harris: (Chairman) on 650 764 127, or Philip Mitchell: (Musical Director) 620 804 534. Rojales Pantomime Group: The Group invited new members to join them at their summer Social. The evening commenced with a new members’ recruitment event introducing other pantomime thespians and explaining how they perform very funny and traditional yearly pantomimes for the general public to enjoy, whilst raising lots of money for local charities. Their 2022 panto will be ‘Treasure Island’. Contact Doug at douglasmcclone@yahoo.co.uk. You will be most welcome.... oh yes you will! Studio 32: Their next show ‘South Pacific’ will be staged at the Cardinal Beluga Theatre, San Fulgencio from 24 to 27 November. They also have a new rehearsal venue, Lakeview Bar and Restaurant, Quesada. New members are needed either as cast members, backstage crew, technicians, or front of house. No previous experience necessary as coaching will be given. Contact: studiothirtytwo@icloud.com or 602 617 848. Ticket enquiries call: 607 424 299 (Previously purchased tickets are still valid).

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

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QFocus Magazine September 2021

PARLIAMENTARY OMBUDSMAN’S PROVISIONAL REPORT VINDICATES WASPI WOMEN WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) women in the UK and Overseas are calling on the UK Government to urgently pay compensation following the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman’s (PHSO) report which concludes that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) “didn’t get it right” when informing women about changes to their State Pension age, resulting in maladministration. WASPI, which represents 3.8 million women, has been repeatedly dismissed by successive Governments who claim that women were given ample warning, but PHSO findings confirm this was not true. Rather, the report finds that it was not a lack of capability that delayed DWP from writing directly to affected women. Instead, the DWP did not even explore writing to women affected until it reviewed “depressing” research which it commissioned itself on awareness levels amongst women impacted. Furthermore, leaflets and pension statements which were distributed contained inaccurate or unclear information. Only in 2009, 14 years after the changes were passed did the DWP decide it was necessary to raise awareness of the changes. The impacts have been devastating, leaving many women with little to no time to prepare. Coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic which has left many WASPI women without employment, the Government needs to urgently compensate all women affected rather than making them wait even longer while the PHSO completes further rounds of its investigation. Lynda Armstrong Co-Ordinator of WASPI International said: “Today’s provisional findings reinforce what we, unfortunately, knew all along; that the DWP failed to adequately inform 3.8 million 1950s born women that their State Pension age would be increasing. We have been tirelessly campaigning on this issue since 2015 and have been repeatedly ignored and dismissed by the UK Government. The Government can no longer cover up its failings. It’s time, once and for all, to resolve this issue.” About WASPI WASPI stands for Women Against State Pension Inequality. The campaign represents almost 3.8 million women born in the 1950s who are suffering because they weren’t adequately informed by the Government that their state pension age would be increasing, and who now have no time to put in place alternative financial arrangements to see them through to the new state retirement age, which in some cases is now 66. Further information about WASPI may be found at www.waspi.co.uk and on the WASPI International Facebook page and Twitter.

QFocus Magazine September 2021

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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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Let's talk about long Covid and how Acupuncture can help with the recovery process...

What is Acupuncture and how does it work... Acupuncture is a Holistic treatment and safe way of relieving symptoms such as pain, anxiety, PTSD, IBS, fatigue and many other conditions that may be associated with long Covid. By using fine sterile needles placed in specific areas of the body, natural chemicals called Endorphins, such as dopamine and serotonin, are released from the brain to help calm the autonomic nervous system, and tap into our bodies natural healing mechanism. Endogenous opioids are also released, enhancing treatment and pain relief and reducing inflammation in the body. Acupuncture can help by reducing stress levels, in turn help our cardiovascular health and can also help with long and short term lung conditions. It can also help with many other conditions such as: · Infertility and genealogical problems · Endocrine disruption · Arthritic conditions · Autoimmunity · Fibromyalgia · ME · Lupus · Head aches · Dental pain

Spot the 10 differences (answers in the classified pages)

QFocus Magazine September 2021 · Sinusitis, Rhinitis and Tinnitus · Post stroke symptoms · Hay fever · Sciatica I often include in a treatment session where deemed necessary, massage and heat treatment, auricular acupuncture and stress studs. During September I'm offering a free stress stud with first treatment and consultation. ● For more information on how acupuncture may help you, or to book an appointment, telephone Samantha @ Absolute Hair nails and Beauty on 966 731 336 or WhatsApp message 688 79 03 13.

Spot the odd one out

QFocus Magazine September 2021

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The Bathroom - El Cuarto de Baño

www.femalefocusonline.com ACONDICIONADOR - CONDITIONER

Find all the Spanish words from the word list in the puzzle grid. Words may AFEITAR - SHAVE be found going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally. Answers can AGUA (EL) - WATER be found in the classified section at the back of the magazine. Good Luck. BAÑERA (LA) - BATH

BASTONCILLO DE ALGODÓN - COTTON BUD CEPILLO DE DIENTES (EL) - TOOTH BRUSH CEPILLO DE PELO - HAIR BRUSH CHAMPÚ - SHAMPOO DESODORANTE - DEODORANT DUCHA (LA) - SHOWER ESPEJO - MIRROR ESPONJA (EL) - SPONGE GEL DE BAÑO - BATH GEL GEL DE DUCHA - SHOWER GEL GRIFO (EL) - TAP INODORO (EL) - TOILET JABÓN (EL) - SOAP LAVABO (EL) - WASH BASIN MAQUILLAJE - MAKEUP MAQUINILLA DE AFEITAR - RAZOR PAPEL HIGIÉNICO (EL) - TOILET PAPER PASTA DE DIENTES - TOOTH PASTE PEINE - COMB TOALLA (LA) - TOWEL

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Jolly's Bar – Quesada

QFocus Magazine September 2021

Nicole and Paul have recently taken over Jolly's Bar in Quesada and welcome new and existing customers to this popular venue. Both Nicole and Paul have a long history in the hospitality industry and have some exciting fresh ideas to bring to the bar in the future months and years, which will be announced as and when they are introduced. In the meantime, the kitchen is open everyday from 9am – 1pm serving delicious breakfasts, snacks and light lunches and their happy hour is from 4pm – 6pm Monday – Friday. For the sports fanatics out there, Jolly's aim to please everyone by showing all major sporting events so come along and meet the new owners. As has been for the past 3 years, Jolly's will be hosting yet another Macmillan Coffee Morning on Saturday 25th September from 10am-1pm organised by Sarah Devonport and her team of helpers. Fundraising started for this event a few months back and there is already a few hundred in the pot. Having surpassed all targets in previous years, Sarah has once again had to up the game to reach this year's target of a huge 1,700€. This has become a possibility due to the locals getting involved and organising several events to raise funds. Almost 20 girls arranged a mini golf challenge paying 5€pp and all the money went in the pot thanks to Quesada Mini Golf allowing them to play for free. Two of Jolly's long standing customers Cowboy Jon and Steve Hatton have volunteered themselves for “Chop the Mop” and “Brave the Shave” to raise money in sponsorship. The actual chopping and shaving will be taking place at Jolly's on Friday 24th September at 5pm, and I am sure there will be a huge turnout so if you would like to sponsor them, forms are at the bar. The men have also organised a Charity Golf Day at La Marquesa Golf which will be on Saturday 9th October – if you would like to participate then call into the bar for more information, as spaces are limited get your name down early. Once again we are asking for your help in donating what you can... whether for the raffle, cash donations or donating a cake. And of course by coming along to the coffee morning where you will be able to buy some home-made and fake away cakes, take part in the raffle and games such as guess the sweets in the jar, name the teddy, and pick a straw to win drinks at the bar or spot prizes, plus many more. Sarah has really turned this event into a 'fun for all the family' day and the enthusiasm from everyone involved, both the public and fellow businesses, is outstanding. Come and join in the fun and do your bit to contribute to a worthy cause.

Jolly's Bar, Avda. Costa Azul, Quesada- near Canales Supermarket. Tel: 688 798 597.

QFocus Magazine September 2021

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RECIPES by Pushpa from the Spice Hut Chicken Korma

1 kg of chicken diced 2 large onions, chopped Little oil 1 tbspn of cumin powder 1 tbspn of coriander powder 1 tbspn of turmeric 1 tspn of garlic paste 1 tspn of ginger paste 2 tbspn of desiccated coconut 4 tbspn of cooking cream Salt Sugar Cup of water Fry the chopped onions then add cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, sugar, ginger and garlic. Cook for a few seconds then add the coconut, cream, water and cook for few minutes on a medium heat. Add the chicken to the sauce and on low heat, cook until coconut is soft and sauce is thick. Check for flavours add accordingly to your taste. You can add chillies in too. Serve with rice. Enjoy. ●

The Spice Hut Quesada. Tel. 966 731 063 or visit www.spicehutspain.com.

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our ARIES Your creativity is really flowing and you are so full of ideas that you don't know where to start. Making a plan and a list of your priorities will give you something to follow. It will be a fantastic and productive time for you and anyone you choose to include in this journey. TAURUS Communication is the only way you will get past a recurring issue between yourself and someone close. Ignoring things will not make them go away this time. Business matters will take an unexpected leap forward. GEMINI Family is the focus this month. Your emotions are running high and will lead to meltdown unless you take time to sort out your own needs. Sorting out your life's direction is the key. CANCER This is a great month for self promotion. Get yourself out there at every opportunity. Making new friends and networking will give you the opportunities you have been searching for. LEO Finances are at the fore this month. Don't jump into anything that is going to increase your debt without good reason. Saving should be the order of the day. Feeling anxious about a meeting will give you the edge you need to show yourself at your best. VIRGO It is time to balance that part of you that always has to analyse everything with a more carefree and spontaneous attitude. Having to be in control of everything is stopping you enjoying life.

QF�� Maga��e Se��e��e� 2021

oroscope LIBRA Changing your perceptions will make everything much easier. You put so much pressure on yourself and those around you it is leading to tension. Lighten up and stop looking for the unachievable from people. SCORPIO As things are starting to quieten down it is time to use your energy wisely before you run out if it completely. People's perception of you is what you make it. If you want them to think better of you then up your game. SAGITTARIUS Your usual optimism is being challenged at the moment. Keep reaching for that dream and don't let others dampen it. Keep an eye out for someone who needs your help but is ashamed to ask. CAPRICORN Romance is in the air and with it time for you to let that special someone know how you feel about them and your future together. Whether it is a new relationship or a long term one it is to be an exciting time. AQUARIUS Although everything seems to be all jumbled up right now things will get clearer as long as you stay focused. Take action towards the end of the month and it will be the start of something magical. It's time for change and only you can make it happen. PISCES Don't rush into things but don't ignore them either. Without dealing with them they will grow into problems which you do not need. Letting people know what annoys you will make relationships much easier. Remember they are not mind readers.

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PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

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Have you booked your space in the Coast's leading Print Directory? Vega Baja Edition: 15,000 copies per issue in high quality gloss B5 paper every six months. Marina Alta Edition: 15,000 copies per issue on high quality gloss A4 paper every six months.

This has to be one of the most successful magazines 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 October 2021, don't miss your chance! See page 4 for contact details of your local representative Pets

Very easy

Medium

You’re invited to come and meet the Easy Horse Care Centre rescued horses, ponies and donkeys Call 652 021 980 or email rescue@easyhorsecare.net. For more information visit our website http://www.easyhorsecare.net This is Tarco, a 7yr old Czecoslovakian Wolfdog. We would recommend a home with a garden possibly a female dog and no small children and no cats! Be warned, Tarco can howl. Call the K9 shelter on 711 075 305 or k9clubinfo@gmail.com

Easy

Hard

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS Across: 7 Average, 8 Flier, 9 Norge, 10 Planted, 11 Scallops, 14 File, 16 Undo, 17 Waitress, 20 Thermal, 22 Adorn, 24 Macao, 25 Wagoner. Down: 1 Cannes, 2 Hear, 3 Gazelle, 4 Help, 5 Pint-size, 6 Bridle, 8 Foal, 12 Audience, 13 Pea, 15 Strange, 16 Uptime, 18 Sentry, 19 Ammo, 21 Lewd, 23 Owns.

Button had to have her eye removed but other than that is a happy, playful kitten who loves cuddles. Call: 645 469 253 visit www.petsinspain.com or email info@petsinspain.com

Personal

ANSWER TO SPOT THE ODD ONE OUT: D

SHOP LOCAL - EAT LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

www.femalefocusonline.com Health & Beauty SLIM AND TONE At our new one stop Slimming, Toning and Vitamin Supplements Studio, we can offer you the Exante diet plan and the Shapemaster toning beds. Call 675 619 568. AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS For families and friends of problem drinkers. There are meetings in Torrevieja. Phone 634 349 961.

Services

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.

FUN SPANISH LESSONS at The Club Quesada Tues 11am to noon Starting 14th September Pre Booking Essential lyndabrettle@aim.com

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TRANSLATOR AND INTERPRETER English/Spanish. All legal, medical and business matters. Covering the Costa Blanca. Contact: 658 957 404 or ejbtranslations@gmail.com. COYS PARKING provide 6 month or 1 year contracts to park your car at Alicante airport, look at our website and click on Coys Parking www.coysrent-a-car.com COYS RENT A CAR is an independent Car Hire company operating from Alicante airport, Torrevieja and the surrounding areas. To get a quote, look at our website: www.coysrent-a-car.com 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. FOR ALL YOUR insurance needs in English. Home, health, travel, motor, funeral cover, community, business. www.spanish-insurance.net Tel: 96 673 0694. Offices in San Javier, la Zenia and Quesada. ALL TYPES OF small or large building work undertaken including bathroom and kitchen refits, patios & terraces, painting, pool repairs, extensions and underbuilds, plumbing and electrics. Call 96 671 2832 or 662 455 960 for a free no obligation quote or email s_sconstruction@yahoo.co.uk

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: 0034 681 315 659. Web: www.aqualyze.es. 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

Wanted GLOBAL DISCOUNT FURNITURE. Quality used household and garden furniture. Top prices paid. Cash Waiting. Collection available. Call 966 713 457 or 604 237 149 or email info@globaldiscountfurniture.com or www.globaldiscountfurniture.com

Business Opportunities FOR SALE – HARRY’S BAR, Quesada. Unique opportunity to purchase this well established popular bar /restaurant. Freehold. Call Joanne for more information on 693 494 951.

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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 and QF Focus Magazines.) The advert can include your property agent contact details.

All adverts must be sent with your Name and NIE or Passport Nº (not to be 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. They 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 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.