Focus On December 2022

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Collecting for Akira Animal Sanctuary

Specsavers Ópticas in Calpe has announced that over the Christmas period they will be collecting food, blankets and toys for the dogs at Akira Animal Sanctuary in Benissa. The store will also become a drop-off point for anyone wanting to donate items for the sanctuary’s charity shop and market stalls.

The shelter cares for up to 50 dogs at a time and depends on donations, sponsorship and fundraising to cover the costs of looking after and finding homes for the dogs that are in their care.

The team at Specsavers Ópticas in Calpe are all animal lovers and have chosen Akira Animal Sanctuary to support this Christmas. They are asking customers and local residents to pop into the store during opening hours with donations until the 7th of January.

Store Director Chantelle Hayward explains, “Akira Animal Sanctuary does such a great job looking after stray and unloved dogs and finding them a forever home. With up to 50 dogs to take care of at any one time, costs for food, medicines and veterinary care can be very high. So, we want to help them this year, by inviting people to drop off dog food, blankets, toys, leads, collars and treats.

Optical Assistant Ilona Quadflieg adds, “We will also be fundraising and welcoming donations of 1€ for an eye test which will all be donated to the shelter.”

Specsavers Ópticas Calpe is located in Avenida Ejércitos Españoles No. 6, Edificio Apolo VII, Local 22 (opposite Repsol). Comprehensive eye tests are free, but a donation to Akira Animal Sanctuary for the test would be gratefully received and you are welcome to drop off any items during open hours.

Billie-Jo Johnson-Roberts from Akira comments, “We want to say a big thank you to Specsavers Ópticas Calpe for choosing to support us over the festive period. We are a non-profit association and rely heavily on donations and fundraising to keep the shelter running and make sure the dogs are well cared for. Please do pop into Specsavers in Calpe with any donations for our dogs or charity shop.”

Find out more, or make a donation at www.akira-animals.com or visit www.specsavers.es to find your nearest store and book an eye test.

www.femalefocusonline.com

my beautiful

a fantastic

Tosca: the honey coloured stone that built Xábia

By Rhona Wells - rhonawells@hotmail.com

Walk through the streets of the old town of Xábia, and you will notice a certain honeygold glow to most of the buildings. This is especially true in late afternoon, when the setting sun bathes the area in the rich golden light that generations of painters and photographers have paid homage to in their work.

Traditional buildings in most of Spain are a combination of white plaster, topped by Mediterranean-style terracotta roof tiles but in Xábia homes have an added touch of style, courtesy of the Tosca Piedra.

Tosca Piedra (stone) is a calcareous sandstone, formed by sand dunes about one hundred thousand years ago. The cut stone still conserves the dune’s stratums (“llavades”) as well as its fissures (“pels”). These are used by the “arrancadors” (stone quarry workers) as an axis to obtain the basic blocks, which were subsequently worked and sculpted. The most important sources of the local sandstone “pedreres” (quarries) not only in Xábia, but along the entire Valencian coastline, are the mountain sites of Muntanyars, (also known as the Dalt or high quarry) and the Baix (low quarry).

These quarries were exploited from the Roman Period until the 20th century. Another major quarry site is the Cova Tallada (the sculpted cave), located at the foot of the cliffs of Cap de Sant Antonio, in whose interior artefacts from the Andalusian Age have been discovered, reinforcing the conviction the quarry had been in use since the 12th Century.

According to local legend, stone cutters were not the only ones to visit the Cueva Tallada. It is said that deep inside the cave an inscription was found in Latin saying: “Felipe III King of Spain penetrated this cave in 1599”, sadly since neither the inscription nor the cave was ever properly protected, the claim can not be verified.

The men who shaped the Tosca stone and hauled it into the mills, carefully marked them with a personalised sign, which in many cases can still be seen today. These ‘signatures’ include crosses, triangles and stars, all of which have helped researchers identify in which of the mills they were fashioned and also, in some cases, an approximate date. Many are believed to date back to medieval times. The personalised ‘signatures’ were carved deeply into the stone, probably because they helped determine how the workmen who crafted them were paid. A separate series of signs possibly ensured the stones were positioned in the correct order when a building was being erected.

The signs and symbols can still clearly be seen on some of the stones produced in the mills which, according to Zurriaga, a local celebrated historian and author from the 18th Century, "had the symbolic value of sanctifying the house and ridding it of witchcraft". Tosca stone has been protected since 1972 when its extraction was prohibited. Since then, architects have had to make do with synthetic alternatives which, while perfectly functional and attractive, can never attain quite the same visual and tactile effect as the original. Although the stone appears smooth from a distance, get close and you will see it is porous in texture and rough if you run your finger across its surface. Viewed in detail one can almost detect the fossilised sea creatures that connect this stone to coastal areas in Spain, Italy and Brazil.

Tosca stone was so much a part of our region that it even features on Xàbia’s ancient coat of arms, which can still be seen – as it has by many previous generations of Xabians – above the fountain of San Bartholomew Church.

Although the old “toscars” (sandstone quarries) have been abandoned by the building industry, their presence still constitutes a valuable, visual reminder of our area’s natural heritage. They reveal a good indication of the traditional procedures and techniques used for the extraction of the “Tosca” sandstone blocks, which now form an exceptional and essential component of Xàbia’s rich traditional architecture.

The local Tosca stone industry may now be at an end but its presence in our lives continues with the touch of warmth and Mediterranean sunshine it brings to the unique Baroque beauty of Xàbia’s architecture.

SHOOTING STARS

When my wife saw the title of this little article, she said it might be more entertaining if it was about a politician and a certain TV show, but I think I'll stick to more important things.

There are lots of names for shooting stars, there's also falling stars, fireballs, and the ones astronomers use, meteors and meteorites. The difference between these last two is simple, meteors burn up in the atmosphere and meteorites reach the ground. The size of them can be anything from a vast rock that devastates where it hits, just like the silly Holywood films, to what makes up 99.999 percent of them, tiny grains of rock. I think most people who have looked up at the night sky will have seen a meteor at some time, a bright streak of light flashing across the sky, they're really pretty and always worth an oooh when you see one. It's quite easy to understand why people in historic times had so many myths for them, souls falling to Earth etc. The real explanation, a bit of dust burning up with friction as it speeds through the air, seems quite mundane. What is less well known is that most meteors come in showers, and when and where these showers will occur is largely predictable. I'm, going to digress for a moment with a personal gripe, the term shower is the correct one, but it's very misleading. I'm sure it makes you think of lots of flashing streaks across the sky, perhaps one every few seconds, in reality it means a dozen or two per hour. So, how can we predict when these showers will happen? It all starts with comets, those beautiful huge balls of gas rock and dust that fly around the Sun from the outer solar system with pretty tails lit by the sun. These comets leave trails of dust in space and as the Earth goes around the Sun, once every year of course, we know when we will pass through an area of dust left by those comets, and we get our shooting stars.

Names are given to the different meteor showers according to which star constellation they seem to appear from, so there are the Taurids, which appear where Taurus is in the sky, the Orionids from the area of Orion and so on. There are quite a few of them.

The next good shower to look out for is the Quadrantids, this goes from the end of December for a couple of weeks and should peak January third and fourth. Look at the sky just past where the handle of the Plough constellation ends. You'll also need a clear very dark sky, so good luck with that. If you are successful, you'll never forget the experience, it's one of mother nature's greatest gifts to us all, but one that so few people have ever seen.

● To find out more about observing and astronomy why not join our group, email us at vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com to find out more.

Charles Oates, Vega Baja Astronomy Group.

In Spain, more than 2.000.000 people over 65 live alone

For most of us, the season to be jolly has arrived. A time to spend with friends and family. A time to enjoy good food, good company and good conversation.

For many, however it is the season of loneliness, solitude and despair. For many, they used to live in urbanisations that were flourishing communities. Now the homes around them have become holiday homes, that are seldom visited. Now they live in ghost towns rarely seeing anyone. Now many of the elderly dread the coming season.

So, this season please take a walk around your area and look for people that maybe alone. Look for people that would appreciate a chat or a cuppa. Spend a short time listening to their stories. I personally have been amazed by the adventures of some people. A short amount of your time could be the best present some people will receive this season.

I believe retirement communities are a fantastic solution. They offer you a caring, protected location. Most of the facilities here in Spain are not becoming quiet urbanisations. In fact, most are becoming full, and homes are getting harder to find. Retirement communities offer you a home where you can enjoy your independence with the support and a thriving community. If you are a social butterfly, there are always people around. If not, then the staff are always there for you.

Stephen is the Marketing Manager at the Colina Club in Calpe. Why not give him a call; arrange a tour; where he can answer any questions and explain the benefits of living at the Colina Club. There's no obligation, of course, and certainly no pressure. But together you may figure out the perfect situation for your next stage of life. So call him today on 96 583 5226 or email at Stephen@ColinaClub.com.

Antiques and Collectors Fair

The next super, authentic Antiques and Collectors Fair is on 6th of December in Salones Canor, Calle Assegador, Teulada 03725. This is a Fair not to be missed.

You will find so many interesting, quirky and elegant items from collectables to genuine antiques. Perhaps a good place to find that elusive Christmas present for the person who has everything. We support local charities by donating space to them to sell generously donated items for sale. Amongst them you will find HELP of the Marina Alta and the Calpe and Benissa Lions. There are food and drinks available all day and parking and entrance are free.

Our plant man, Michel, will be gracing the entrance with a beautiful variety of healthy and affordable plants. Doors open at 9am and close at 3pm. Any queries please contact us on 626 795 587. We look forward to seeing you there.

Help starting your weight loss regime

I am thinking of seeing a Nutritionist as over the last couple of years, I have gained weight, started to suffer with bloating and often feel lethargic. Do you think they can help me?

A Nutritionist is an expert in the relationship between food and health, and the effects that it has on our body. They can advise on how to lose or gain weight in a healthy and structured way. With there being so many diets available, it can become confusing on what plan is best suited to your individual needs. Having an expert help you through the process is important, as they can offer support, keeping you focused with your food and exercise choices.

Food allergies can cause many symptoms, such as sickness, bloating, weight gain, diarrhoea, tiredness, skin rashes and a general feeling of unwellness. Speak with your GP as with the help of a simple blood or stool test, these allergies can be diagnosed, and a balanced nutrition plan to avoid these foods can be put into place by a Nutritionist.

Also now available are specialised injections that can help to kick start your weight loss regime, it is important to consult with your GP first as they are not suitable for everyone.

The counselling interaction is a highly empathetic, non-judgmental process of trust between your teenager and her Counsellor, always following ethical guidelines and with your Teens best interests always paramount. Total confidentiality is an absolute promise and there would only ever be disclosure when a life or danger to another child may be a risk. There must be total trust and understanding and as a Counsellor no judgement would ever be made on either the young adult or the parents at any time. We want to make things better, but it must

be done through total trust and mutual respect. Chats and interactions are aimed at understanding your teenagers’ problems and developing a plan of action together. We do this by eliciting possible goals through, listening actively and gently challenging your child where appropriate, and helping them to tell their stories over a reasonable time period. The aim is to discover, what does this young adult really need and want? How can I develop a strategy to help him and his / her family?

It doesn’t have to be the nightmare it is at the moment.

Contact Amanda Dean-Pyott at Listen Up on +34 679 780 039 and start to restore harmony in your family today. See main advert below left.

What is a Counselling interaction and how can a Counsellor help your Teenager help themselves and you?

So many Christmas gift ideas all under one roof

So Christmas is here once again and already you’re asking yourself what to buy someone. Well here at MimisKru we have lots of possibilities, may we suggest…

• A Hair-Dressing Gift voucher with one of our professional experienced team;

- Emma, skilled in balayage colours, root drag or root smudge giving a natural blend of root colour softened into baby hi-lights. Her natural wit and charm mean all Emma’s clients leave with a spring in their step and a feel good smile.

- Or Lina, our Spanish hairdresser who often helps clients practice their Spanish whilst she does their hair. Lina also specialises in modern hair colour trends, but big bouncy blow-dries are her most spectacular, leaving you calm and pampered especially with her amazing head and neck massage.

- Or how about a voucher for an amazing Up-Do? With our talented boss Jo Black, special event hair is her skill. Make someone’s day so they can look great at that festive party. They can enjoy Jo’s charm and talent and probably get to hear all about her love life!

• Or maybe A Beauty Gift Voucher with Lynette in our nail and beauty station. Enjoy a manicure that will last you 3-4 weeks or relax into her charming hands with an Eve Taylor facial. Alternatively a pampering pedi-spa treatment, includes a back massage and a glass of cava to help you really enjoy the moment!

• For the men A Gent’s Pedicure, the best gift of all to give your man, friend, neighbour, lodger or lover. Now becoming very popular as they also can’t reach to cut their toenails and they also have hard skin. Treat them ladies!!!

• Or maybe a Voucher for Eyelash Extensions with Svetlana. Have beautiful lashes for Christmas and the New Year. A relaxing experience that lasts 2 hours at a cost of €48 for a full new set. Be glamorous or make someone else’s day glamorous!

• And lots more possibilities; browse our MimisKru retail section; we stock Olaplex, one of the world’s top hair brands for repairing your hair. Or a new hairbrush? A great tree gift! Our boutique section offers warm winter wear, glamorous party dresses, handbags and glitzy Christmas hair jewellery, bracelets, and earrings. We have it all your needs covered under one roof.

Lastly we are running a Charity Christmas raffle with the prizes being The Chocolate House & the Xmas Wreath. All proceeds will go to a charity close to Jo Black’s heart; Macmillan Nurses in remembrance of her sister Sarah Jane.

Happy Christmas & A Happy New Year to you all from the MimisKru Team Jávea x

● Local 12, Edificio Caribe, Av del Pla 129, Jávea. Tel 965 793 584. www.mimiskruhairandbeauty.com - Facebook Mimiskru. See our advert on the Horoscopes page.

THERE’S LIGHT UP ON THE MOUNTAIN THIS CHRISTMAS TIME

…..to enjoy life more on this lead up to Christmas, in 2023 and beyond, it could start with a change in ALTITUDE!

Are you feeling excited about Christmas or maybe feeling lost or lonely, thinking there must be more to life?

Either way, it might be we have just what you need, especially as we are approaching such a special day.

Come and see, it’s Free, it’s Powerful and it can be life changing, in a wonderful way. No one needs to be alone, we have plenty of activities and friendship to share.

We are an English speaking, inter-denominational church close to Moraira, Teulada, Benitachell and Javea. Whether you are just inquisitive to know more, have been a Christian for one month or many years, a holiday maker, part time visitor or resident here, we would love to meet you.

This month we will be lighting the remaining three of the four Advent candles on Sunday 4th, 11th and 18th and enjoying a Christingle Service on Sunday 4th December, where we will provide free Christingle oranges.

On Sunday 11th December we will be singing many of the carols we know and love and there is another special Christmas Service on Sunday 18th December. Throughout each Sunday service the worship music ranges from peaceful to exhilarating, and there is always reverent prayer and an inspiring message.

The coffee, refreshment and friendly chatter afterwards is uplifting (and free too!)

On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, although our Church building will not be open, you will be able to access our services on-line via our website, Facebook page and You Tube Channel. Our 2023 Sunday services will commence on 8th January 2023.

AT BENITATCHELL CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP ‘EVERYONE’ IS WELCOME and you will be amazed at the difference a visit can make. We can be found on the Cumbre del Sol, Benitachell, just below the Lady Elizabeth School in the Civil Protection Building, El Puig, which is painted white with lime green signage.

Parking is easy, with ample spaces right by the entrance.

Full address, directions, website and Facebook details can be found on our advertisement.

Please contact Sue on +44 7770 372879 sue_hunton@hotmail.com or Eric on +34 678 980 151 if you would like further information or if you have a special prayer request. We will always be happy to hear from you.

U3A Calpe Christmas Appeal

The U3A Calpe Christmas Appeal is in aid of the local branch of Cruz Roja. Gifts of non-perishable food ítems, baby food & supplies, toys or donations of cash are warmly welcomed. Cash donations, in a sealed labelled envelope, can be handed in to the U3A Calpe mailbox at Total Postal. Other gifts, and cash, can be brought to the special Christmas Coffee Morning on 15 December from 10.30am - noon at LAFMA premises. Members attending will be treated to mulled wine, and mince pies!

Cash and gifts can also be brought to the café at Calpe Tennis Club on 1 December between 10am - noon and again on 13 December from noon to 2pm, to the ground floor of the Plaza Central.

HELP! (I Need Somebody) HELP! (Not Just Anybody) HELP! (I Need Someone To Help)

Living here in Spain is truly wonderful - until things go wrong! Maybe the boiler isn’t working, you need some legal advice, if you’re in business you need some urgent printing, your car insurance quote is too much. The answer is to find a professional, trustworthy, and legal business or tradesman (tradesperson!) to get your things fixed.

The question is: who to turn to that you can trust?

The Costa Blanca Business Association (CBBA) put simply is a business networking and referrals organisation. The CBBA currently comprises more than 20 members covering a wide range of goods and services, supplying businesses and people living here in the Costa Blanca.

It was set up approximately 10 years ago and has become a trusted and established source of businesses you can turn to and trust.

When you use a member of the CBBA, you can be assured that they are operating legally, and will stand by their work. All our members are ‘vetted’ to ensure they’re ‘in the system’ and paying taxes. In short, a CBBA member is trustworthy, professional and honest. And if things go really wrong, then we can exert pressure to make sure issues are sorted properly. So if you have any job, no matter how small or large, there’s a strong likelihood that one of our members can help! Visit www.cbba.es to find a full list and contact details of our members.

IN BUSINESS? JOIN US!

If you’re in business and would like to be considered to joining the region’s most successful referral network group, why not contact us to find out how you can enhance your business!

Members meet every 2 weeks at Restaurante Los Arcos, N332, Pedreguer. If you would like to come along as a visitor (businesses only), email info@cbba.es or visit www.cbba.es.

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Local author helping local charity

A number of you in the area will know Howard Westcott as a teacher. As Howard’s teaching career is slowly coming to an end, he has gone back to his first love, writing.

Since returning to this interest he has already written two autobiographies and 5 novels, all based on the story of the main character, Judith, whose remarkable journey was laid out in the current 5 books which will be extended to 7 before the journey ends.

As a local author Howard is aware that he is not going to be the next J K Rowling!!. In fact all his books are around 10€ each. But once his costs are covered, all profit will be donated to his designated charity which he has supported for some time, ‘Make a Smile’ who support children in care. Again, many of you will know Tony Grande who has fought for these children for many years.

Now Howard is trying to donate to help their Christmas appeal to give some of the youngsters something special at a difficult time for many of them. If you would like a book or 2 for a Christmas read and support an amazing charity then contact him on Facebook or email, howardwestcott@ymail.com. It is all about making a difference and that was his main aim in this project.

TWO AMATA CHRISTMAS FAIRS

Christmas Fair in the Port of Jávea

Every Sunday morning you can find a small group of original craft stalls on the sea side boulevard at the end of the Avenida Jaime I in the Port of Jávea. But on 3 and 4 December they will be there the whole day. The shopkeepers' association of the Port, who is behind these craft fairs, has asked the artisans to come those two days in full force to start the Christmas season.

Some twenty or so stalls are expected, each one offering something different, but all of them decorated in Christmas style and focused on the coming festive days. This means that public has an opportunity to buy original (and even personalised!) presents for Christmas and the Three Kings, the artisans have an extra chance to sell their work and the fair will attract more people to the Port, and can see for themselves how much this part of Jávea has to offer The Fair is organised by craft association Amata, who guarantee that everything on sale is hand made by the participants themselves! There will be stalls with leather work, ceramics, wooden and soft toys and jewellery in all types of material. A painter specialised in portraits of people and pets, another artist who paints water colours, and another paper maché figures. And as all participants are real artisans, they can make something special for you if you can't find what you are looking for The Christmas market opens on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December from 11am until 8pm and stays open at midday. You can find them in Google Maps at https://goo.gl/maps/rx5uWDjHiYs and last minute changes are announced on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/feriaartesaniajavea/.

Christmas Market in Altea with original Craftwork

The Christmas Fair will then be in Altea on 9, 10 and 11 December. The Town Hall has once again trusted Amata for the organisation of this fair, because they guarantee that everything that is sold is made by hand by the participants themselves. About thirty stalls are expected, offering a wide range of original work and there will be something for every taste. Ceramics and pottery, colourful leather bags with a matching silk scarf, wooden and soft toys, original paintings and lamps made from pumpkins, jewellery in different materials, even handmade guitars! And all those special products that you can only find at an Amata fair.

There will also be some stalls with Christmas sweets, sausages and cheeses. And to warm you up there will be Glühwein, the famous mulled wine from the Nordic countries.

For the little ones there will be craft workshops, board games, a Christmas photocall and a mailbox to leave letters to Santa Claus. A versatile artist will animate the fair walking around on stilts, playing Christmas characters and every night he will juggle with fire. And in the afternoons there will be live music.

The fair opens on Friday, 9 December at 6pm; opening times for Saturday and Sunday are from 11am until 9pm. On Sunday they close a little earlier. A full programme and photos from last year are at www.puebloartesano.es/altea.html.

Weary Warriors

If anyone noticed a group of people recently at the Montgo Garden Centre having a really good time, it was the Weary Warriors, carers and partners.

We meet there every Saturday at 11.30am, just a spontaneous gathering for whoever happens to be free.

This is in addition to the meetings at the Jávea Golf Club, on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month (next meeting 13 December), which are just for carers.

If you have a partner or loved one with Dementia or Alzheimers, and you would like to join us, you would be very welcome. Telephone Lyn Baerfuss on 692 059 257 for more details.

J.I.B.C. Jávea International Baptist Church. Christmas programme

Carols in the Port, Friday, 16 December, 12 noon at Plaza Adolfo Suarez (opp. Miramar Hotel). Come and take your seats at the nearby cafés to enjoy singing your favourite carols. A collection will be made for the missionary work of Graham and Sarah in Mazwi village, Zimbabwe.

Carols by Candlelight, Church Centre, Calle Favara 8, Jávea Pueblo. Sunday, 18 December, 5pm. Beautiful atmospheric service with Christmas readings and carols. Note: No morning service that day. Christmas Day, Church Centre, Calle Favara 8, Jávea Pueblo. Sunday, 25th December, 10.30am. Celebration of the birth of Jesus You will be most welcome at all of our events! We wish you a BLESSED CHRISTMAS!

Montgó Chorale Christmas Concert

Montgó Chorale will be presenting their traditional Christmas concert at the Loreto Church (also known as the Fishermen’s Church) in Jávea Port at 5pm on Saturday 10 December.

Directed by Aileen Lightfoot, the choir will perform a programme of Christmas music, including well-loved carols with audience participation, pieces by the ever-popular John Rutter and an arrangement of the beautiful “Mary's Boychild” by the choir's Founder and former Director Gordon Lawson.

Doors open at 4.30pm. Entry is free.

There will be a retiring collection in aid of Caritas, the church’s charity that does such important and worthwhile work supporting local families in need.

For further information, please contact Sally Merrett by email at montgochorale@gmail.com

The Original Charity Shop and Library create a Win-Win

The Original Charity Shop recently purchased 7 bags of children’s clothes from Helen Davis. Helen is the founder of Spread Some Sunshine, a charity that helps children in care and strives to improve the lives of families in need on the South West Coast of Sri Lanka. Helen explained that due to recent floods and lack of government funding, the group of people she supports had no money to buy food. She happily accepted the cheque for 500 Euro, funds which will go a long way to buy food and other essentials.

Maica and Lorena from the Jávea Red Cross were delighted to receive the donation of children’s clothes. Maica said that the Red Cross provide humanitarian assistance for immigrant and refugee families where children’s clothes are always needed.

The Original Charity Shop is situated on Carrer de Nancy 1, in Jávea’s Arenal area. The Library/Bookshop can be found in Jávea Park. We are open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 1pm. As always, we not only have a huge selection of ladies and gents clothing, but also curtains, bedding, kitchenware, bric-abrac, jewellery, shoes and much more. Come and browse our book stalls at the Bookshop in Jávea Park where you will find books for as little as 50 cents.

MOFTAG MEMBERS JUMP FOR JOY AT THEIR XMAS FAIR RESULTS

– article written by Anita Becker

The Moftag Ladies are jumping for joy at the results of their Christmas Fair held on 12 November. The fantastic amount of 2793€ was raised.

Tensions were mounting the day before when a terrific thunder & lightning storm hit Calpe but the sun shone for us on Saturday! All the money raised will be used to support local charities in Calpe, for example Cruz Roja, Cancer Care Lynwen Nurses, Caritas and Maite Boronat day Centre.

Our sincere thanks to Pub Delfin for hosting our event once again and also to all our members and loyal supporters.

MOFTAG stands for Mighty Oaks from Tiny Acorns Grow and I think our small club has proven that motto year after year with our fund raising forever increasing. Moftag is the oldest English speaking ladies club in Calpe, having been founded in 1978. Apart from fund raising we organise social events every Wednesday for our members.

New members are always welcome so if you would like to know more about us please contact our president – Jenny Godfrey on 639 139 518. As you can see from the photo we are a happy bunch!

SUDOKU

Here are two 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 row, every column and every 3 x 3 grid contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repeats, which means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.

CROSSWORD

Across 7 Feeler (8) 8 Evils (4) 9 Plaid (6) 10 Measurement system (6) 11 Parody (4,2)

Monopolize (6) 14 For each (3)

The girls from UNCLE? (6)

Resist (6) 19 Black Sea port (6) 21 Chopping sport (6) 23 Irish county (4) 24 Ran madly about in America (8)

Down 1 Act properly (6) 2 Let it stand (4) 3 German gin (8) 4 Quantity of paper (4) 5 Cover with decorative paper (4,4) 6 Mountain plant (6) 12 Outcome is in code -

Panto, parties and Christmas fairs

Support local acts and artisans on the Costa Blanca with a Christmas selection box of events from pantomime to live music and fun fairs for everyone.

Join the festive fun on Saturday December 10 at Pinosol Aparthotel in Jávea when Telitec holds its fabulous Christmas Fair. Original gifts and crafts are on sale along with mulled wine, festive food and fun. The fair is in support of Guardian Angels, a Costa Blanca-based charity helping single-parent families.

Careline Theatre in Alcalali is holding a Christmas Party on Friday December 16 with music from the FBI, the Costa Blanca’s very own Shadows Tribute Band. Tickets are 12.50€ and can be booked online at www.carelinetheatre.net.

The theatre is also putting on a cracker of a popular pantomime. The story of Cinderella will be performed on Thursday January 19 and Friday January 20 at 8pm, and Saturday January 21 at 3pm and 8pm. Tickets are 12.50€ for adults and 8.50€ for children aged 10 and under.

In Valencia you can see the musical Beauty and the Beast on December 22, 26, 27, 28 and 29 at the Teatro Olympia or Snow White the musical at L'Auditori Torrent on December 26.

As you can see from the magazine there is so much going on this month to make the Christmas season special.

must be deciphered (8) 13 Dishes (8) 16 Third-largest ocean (6) 18 Glossy (6) 20 "Or to take --- against

a sea of troubles ..." (Shakespeare, Hamlet) (4) 22 Dominion (4)

See back pages for answers

U3A Denia news

During the November meeting, members were entertained by the music group that are part of U3A Denia, Pick n Mix (Denia U3A Guitar group).

The group performed a ten-song concert for all and at a very high standard and considering all members are amateur musicians, the audience were very impressed with their performances. A great morning and one that is sure to be repeated very soon. U3A Denia Guitar group, Pick n Mix, are also planning to offer free concerts in the area, and are busy practicing Christmas songs at their home venue in El Verger. The groups next performance will be at the Arc fair in Jalon on 4 December.

Why not join us for one of our fortnight coffee mornings to find out more about the U3A, the next is 3 December.

Please visit our website www.u3adenia.com or email president@u3adenia.com for more information.

Cantamus: The choir is looking for new members, in all voice groups, to join them. The choir sings a selection of spiritual or uplifting songs. Members are provided with all the music and tracks to learn to, so you can practice at home between rehearsals. 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 and will be happy to welcome you.

Caprice ladies’ choir are continuing their rehearsals for their next main concert in February 2023, with one performance planned in Calpe and another in Jalon, both in support of local charities. Full details next month. The choir rehearses in Calpe every Wednesday evening, singing a variety of styles of popular music with something to appeal to everyone. For more information contact musical director Aileen on 696 514 613.

The Phoenix Dancers have been joined by Marcia’s Chicas Burlesquitas and are hard at work rehearsing for their Christmas performances and school exams. During COVID times in order to keep dancing, they made videos to post on social media; it was so much fun they are continuing to do this and they can often be seen filming around town. If you see them please give them some encouragement, and look out for them at the Feria de Navidad! As always, if you want to dance, at any age or level, or you are interested in helping with costumes, filming or photography please get in contact. If you are a charity they can help you make an event extra special. Contact them on 607 290 896.

Sounds Familiar: are rehearsing for their next musical revue called ‘Musicals Tonight’. Sounds Familiar have been producing musical shows since 2009. If you are interested in this show, in joining the group for future productions, or would like more information, please see our website at www.soundsfamiliar.es or contact Philip on 96 558 1483, or philip@soundsfamiliar.es

The Vall del Pop Singers are currently inviting new singers to join them on Tuesday afternoons in Alcalalí. There is no requirement to read music and the group sing a selection of popular songs. This is a friendly group who welcome new singers and it is open to anybody of any age. Please contact the group for more information at valldelpopsingers@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

December

Careline Theatre hope you will join them on the 16th December at 8pm for a pre xmas music night at the ‘FBI Shadows Concert’ followed by their fun for everyone Panto, ‘Cinderella’ on the 19th, 20th, 21st Jan at 8pm including a 3pm matinee on the 21st. Bookings on www.carelinetheatre.net. Happy Christmas everyone.

Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir: The choir's traditional Carol Concert takes place on 14 December in the beautiful Benitachell church starting at 19:00. This popular event is always well attended and provides the opportunity to listen to, and join in the singing of traditional carols and Christmas songs. Tickets are not required for this event, and you can find more details and a link to their YouTube channel on their website costablancamalevoicechoir.com.

Jávea Players: Pip Utton returns with two characters to Jávea Players’ Studio on 25 - 28 January. Charles Dickens spent his final years on speaking tours in the company of a beautiful young actress. Pip introduces us to Dickens entertaining his friends. Sometime in the imaginary future it’s Bob Dylan’s final concert, you have a backstage pass. Pip removes the mask of a legend you thought you knew. See www.javeaplayers.com for details.

Cantãmus, Canto Mundial and Adagio

Concerts for

The singing groups under the musical direction of Philip Ashley have a busy Christmas period this year, in contrast to the previous couple of years. Cantãmus, Canto Mundial and Adagio have all got concerts lined up during December.

First off is Cantãmus with their concert entitled Advent of Christmas. This is filled with the type of uplifting and inspiring music that the choir is known for, as well as a host of Christmas music to get you in the yuletide spirit. Advent of Christmas will be performed at the Ermita de San Josep, La Fustera, Benissa coast on Saturday 3rd December at 3.30pm with tickets priced at €10.

Canto Mundial from Alfaz del Pi will be performing Welcome Christmas at the Centro Social Playa del Albir (Social Centre next to Mercadona) on Thursday 15th December at 7.30pm. This concert will begin with a range of light classical, film music and easy listening and will finish the concert with some Christmas music.

In addition to the choir the harmony group Adagio will be making a guest appearance singing a selection from their recent concerts plus some Christmas music.

The groups are asking for a donation of 5€ to help the Asociación Voluntariado Social L'Àlfas del Pí (Alfas food bank).

Tickets for both concerts are available by phone on 96 558 1483.

Founded by Benny Davis in 2007

Adopt a Pet

If you have spare time on your hands please contact your local pet charity to see how you can help out. They are always in need of more volunteers to walk the dogs, stroke the cats, meet the horses or help with cleaning out the kennels and stables. If you have an idea for fund raising they would love to hear from you.

Rubi, 5 and house-trained is good with people and dogs when she meets them out walking. Loves being cuddled and fussed - she would probably prefer to be an only dog and receive all the attention! She is a small girl and doesn’t take up much space on the sofa! Please contact Akira on 657 689 567 or email akirashelter@aol.com.

Dogo is an Alsatian mix born 03.2009. He is very friendly to everybody, even to other males. He walks well on the lead and he is very adaptive. He would love a garden where he could run about and play. A sportive family would be ideal. Please call 618 754 635 or visit www.apasa.eu.

Maisie Grey is 2 years and is sterilised. She is very loving towards people but does not like to be around other cats and so is looking for a home as an only pet. Can you offer this gorgeous girl a home? For more info please call PEPA on 650 304 746 or email p.e.p.a.animalcharity@gmail.com.

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.

WORD SEARCH

Find all the Spanish words from the word list in the puzzle grid. Words may be found going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally. Answers can be found in the back of the magazine. Good Luck.

ACEBO - HOLLY

ADORNOS - DECORATIONS

ANGEL - ANGEL

ÁRBOL - TREE

BELEN - NATIVITY SCENE

CABALGATA - PARADE OF THE THREE KINGS

CAMPANADAS - CHIMES

FELIZ NAVIDAD - HAPPY CHRISTMAS

FLOR DE PASCUAPOINSETTIA

GUIRNALDA - WREATH

LUCES - LIGHTS

MUÉRDAGO - MISTLETOE

NAVIDAD - CHRISTMAS

NIEVE - SNOW

NOCHEBUENA - CHRISTMAS EVE

NOCHEVIEJA - NEW YEAR'S EVE

PAPÁ NOEL - FATHER CHRISTMAS

PAVO - TURKEY

POSTALES - CARDS

REGALOS - PRESENTS

RENOS - REINDEER

Juani is one of our many lovely cats. Shelter open every Sunday 10am - 12pm, whatsapp Luisa 669 376 113 for more information. Denia Cat Protection League –Aldea Felina, please visit www.aldeafelina.es

Tanamera Rescue is a small animal rescue, privately run by volunteers who rescue hunting dogs. If you would like to know more about us and how you can help please visit our Facebook page 'Tanamera Rescue' or email us stichtingtanamera@gmail.com

This is Atila, a lovely friendly dog who was found over a year ago abandoned and extremely thin. He walks well and is good with children. Atila really deserves a loving home. Please come to visit him at Benidorm Animal shelter Mon-Fri 10am to 1pm or call 965 85 62 68. www.protectorabenidorm.org

Rocky is a Belgian Malinois, a highly intelligent breed of dog that needs both mental and physical stimulation. At 3 years old, he needs an active and experienced handler, and he would become a loyal and fantastic companion. Please contact apropego@gmail.com or call 654 616 043.

REYES MAGOS - WISE MEN / THREE KINGS TURRÓN - TURRON

UVAS - GRAPES

VILLANCICO - CAROL

See back pages for answers

How to get half-price holidays for pensioners

If you are a pensioner and registered on the padron, you can enjoy half-price holidays, thanks to the Comunidad Valenciana’s Bono Viaje travel scheme.

The scheme covers 50% of eligible costs up to a maximum of 400€ for holidays between two and four nights, and 60% up to a maximum of 600€ for stays of five or more nights.

Applications can be made from December 20 and successful applicants will get a bonus code for holidays taken between January 17 and May 31, 2023, or September 19 to December 23, 2023.

The Valencia government has set aside 15 million euros to offer discounts to more than 120,000 seniors living in the Comunidad Valenciana, which includes Alicante and the Costa Blanca. It aims to generate between 400,000 and 500,000 overnight stays for people to rediscover the quality and variety of holiday breaks available in Spain.

The promotional codes will be assigned from January 10 and the reservation has to be made within 10 working days of receiving the code. For more information and to register for a subsidised holiday, to go https://bonoviajecv22.gva.es/

● Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

Visit Alicante city at Christmas

Christmas is a great time to visit Alicante city with its sparkling lights, festive market and traditional nativity scenes or belenes.

The city has a long tradition of building these nativity scenes showing different aspects of the birth and life of Jesus. Even to this day, setting up Christmas cribs in public places and family homes continues.

Indeed, for the artists from the Alicante Nativity Scene Association, Christmas begins in February when they start to create the traditional nativity scenes which transform the streets and squares into places filled with festive charm.

The best belenes can be seen in:

● Fundación Mediterráneo ● Plaza del Ayuntamiento ● C. C. Gran Vía shopping centre ● Plaza de la Montañeta Belenes from Alicante and different parts of the world are exhibited in the Museo de Belenes in Alicante city centre. The traditional of creating these Christmas cribs dates back to 1223 when St Francis of Assisi depicted the birth of Jesus using characters and live animals in a grotto in the Italian town of Greccio.

While in Alicante, visit the indoor market to pick up a superb selection of food for Christmas including the traditional turrón sweet produced in nearby Jijona.

Spectacular belenes are also on display in Valencia's Plaza del Ayuntamiento and in the cathedral. The traditional outdoor market by the Central Market is another a great place for picking up festival supplies including turron, chestnuts and sugared almonds.

●

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

The Arts Society Marina Alta. Next presentation 9th December 2022 (Friday not Thursday) at Salones Canor Teulada. Doors open at 10:00am for registration and the presentation begins at 11am. Coffee is available prior to the lecture for members and guests.

THE ART OF THE CARTOONIST By Harry Venning.

This is your opportunity to spend time in the company of Harry Venning, an award-winning cartoonist, comedy writer and performer. Harry will be tracing the history of his profession through the work of artists who have made an impact upon language, culture, history, and most importantly upon himself.

In 'The Art Of The Cartoonist' Harry will be tracing the history of his profession with examples from early practitioners like Cruickshank and Hogarth, to more contemporary artists such as Giles and Schulz, bringing events right up to date with cartoons produced fresh on the page that day!

His cartoons have appeared in publications as diverse as The Guardian, The Telegraph, Mathematics Today, The Radio Times, Music Teacher and The Stage. As you will surmise an eclectic media spread! and terrifically entertaining. He was awarded UK Strip Cartoonist Of The Year for his Guardian strip ‘Clare In The Community’, which he adapted into a Radio 4 sitcom.

Introducing MR HARRY VENNING

Harry graduated from the University of Wales, Aberystwyth with a BA in history, formed a touring theatre company bringing new plays to audiences in rural Wales, and was then employed for a year as an actor/writer with the Channel Theatre Company in Ramsgate, Kent, before giving up acting and becoming a cartoonist instead, an interesting career change. Having had work published in the UK and abroad, including the strip ‘ Clare in the Community’ which has been a weekly feature in The Guardian since 1996. In 2016 he was awarded Strip Cartoonist of the Year by the UK Cartoon Trust.

Harry is also a Sony Award winning writer of radio comedy, including the shows Coach Karen’s Half Time Team Talk and Clare in the Community starring Sally Phillips, currently recording its twelfth series. For the last ten or so years he has been performing his cartoon workshop ‘Release Your Inner Cartoonist’, in its many different guises, to audiences as diverse as schoolchildren, business executives and festival goers.

For the benefit of all, members, guests and visitors, we offer a glass of wine or soft drink (and perhaps a mince pie or two) at the end of the lecture to allow socialising with the group, Committee and the Speaker.

The sponsors for this presentation are Blevins Franks Wealth Management and Estate Agents, Inmobres of Calpe.

For details of membership opportunities please contact Maggie at mb.marinaalta@theartssociety.org or for more information Linda at sc.marinaalta@theartssociety.org.

Looking forward

This time of year always reminds me to look back, but also look forward, start to examine the things you would like to do with your house or garden, those things you really wanted to get from your space that you maybe didn’t. It’s a great time to organise work now and get it done ready for your spring and summer time in Spain during 2023.

We have recently had a spurt of enquiries from clients wanting very large areas of artificial grass. This is a great thing, but the bigger the area, the bigger the cost. Many of these clients are making the enquiries with a pretty good understanding of the product and that’s why they are looking at making the change to artificial grass. When it comes to dealing with these clients I do like to try and support them in making the right decision as I think it’s very easy to keep kicking the proverbial can down the road.

The big problem about natural lawns is the running cost and because clients pay the water bills, the garden maintenance, the irrigation maintenance etc in monthly bills, they forget to add up the total of what it is costing them annually. I know what a lot of these running costs are as I have been involved in gardens for such a long time, maintaining, repairing, and keeping them looking good, and to keep natural lawns at their best costs a lot of money.

When we have to remove an existing lawn there is more cost involved than if we are doing work on a virgin plot. But even with the additional costs for digging up and removing tonnes of material that must be dumped, rough figures are still showing that the client will have equivalently paid off the cost of the artificial grass versus maintenance costs of the natural lawn within 1.5 to 2.5 years approximately, and considering I have had clients who have had artificial grass for 17 years, that becomes an awful lot of money back in your pocket. It’s something to think about for the coming New Year.

In the meantime, have a wonderful Christmas from the Artificial Grass Spain and Microcement Spain team, and a healthy prosperous New Year.

Article supplied by Lee Charlesworth from Charlesworth Gardens. Telephone: 696 283 704, Email: info@artificial-grass-spain.com, Web: www.artificial-grass-spain-com

Walk Your Way Well

with Niamh O'Sheehan

Every year we all make those same old New Years' Resolutions. This year I will exercise more. This year I will drink less. This year I will find focus and achieve my goals. Yip! I remember those repeatedly broken promises year in and year out. “Why Oh Why do I even bother”, I hear your cry!

I discovered, through my own personal experiences, that the secret to success when dealing with habit-breaking or habit-making is ACCOUNTABILITY and SUPPORT. What do I mean by this? Well, if you keep your resolution to yourself the likelihood of success is slim. If you commit to your resolution “out loud” and find yourself an accountability group to support you, then the chances of success are statistically proven to skyrocket.

Based on my own journey I have created three “Resolution Revolution” opportunities for you to finally achieve the outcome you desire in 2023. Who am I to purport to be able to help you achieve success? Well, I have been able to find my way through incredible lifestyle changes with the help and support of others. And now that's what I do! I coach and support others. And I absolutely love it!

I have created three unique packages: (1) The 10,000K Step Challenge. (2) The Dry January Challenge. (3) The Daily Journaling Challenge. Why these three? Quite simply, because they are an integral part of my story so I feel qualified to deliver. And I’d love to help you tackle whichever one of these challenges you’d like to embrace to help improve your life (see photo attached). Drop me a line for more information.

And now, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Female Focus for their continued amazing community support. I’d like to thank my family and friends for seeing me through an amazing year of growing and evolving. And it goes without saying, I’d like to thank all the wonderful Walk Your Way Wellers who walked with me, talked with me, and blossomed with me in 2022. What fun we have had. I wish you all an amazing festive season and hope that 2023 is just magnificent.

If you are looking for a present for that person who has everything why not gift them RESOLUTION! I can issue a Gift Voucher and your friend or loved one can join on whichever challenge they fancy. They will thank you! WhatsApp +34 676 507 791.

Calpe U3A Ladies dining "JUGS" "Just us Girls" had a great lunch on the 10 November at "Makarpi" restaurant Calpe. Twenty two Ladies attended, It was a fun afternoon, our last lunch for this year is on the 15 December at the Restaurant Patio Fuente, Calpe. If you would like to join the ladies who lunch check the U3A Website for more details. www.u3acalpe.org.

The men's dining group meet on the last Thursday of every month for dinner in a Calpe restaurant, though occasionally one nearer to Moraira for members living that way. Anyone interested in joining the amiable group either as a guest or a U3A Calpe member please contact arthurandfreda@yahoo.com.

Tips For A Cosy Home This Winter

It IS electric.

But

An electric blanket is cheaper than a heater. That is mainly because using an electric blanket to warm the bed would mean you wouldn’t need to heat the entire room while you sleep. Try and set it at a reasonable temperature to keep the costs down even further and stop you roasting during the night. You could also just turn it off once you’ve put your head down.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Curtains

All curtains are really useful for all sorts of reasons. Apart from adding atmosphere to a room, there are weather reasons. For example, if it’s windy outside, heat loss from the home will increase. And if it’s rainy, that loss goes up. But if it’s windy and rainy, expect a massive heat loss. Most types of curtains do help. However, black out curtains all year round have proven to be excellent on energy saving (and keeping your house cool during the warm months). Open on bright, sunny days to let the sun’s natural heat filter through your windows and close them on overcast days and always at night.

Throws on the Sofas, Armchairs and Beds Keep throws handy to avoid the temptation to crank up the heating. We have different fabrics, colours and patterns to choose from which will add an extra touch to any room no matter where you throw it!

Duvets, Duvet Covers, Blankets, Toppers, Bed Protectors, Rugs and More Come and see our Winter Collection in either our Jávea or Altea shops. We have everything you need from indoors to outdoors to make big or small changes to your home or rental and our

multi-lingual staff are always available to help you in any way they can.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see the latest collections coming into our shops. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yorkshirelinencostablanca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yorkshirelinencostablanca

Come and get inspired! Seasons Greetings and Happy New Year to you all from the Yorkshire Linen Team. www.yorkshirelinencostablanca.com

Javea: Centro Comercial Montgó, Cap de la Nao Plà 68, Jávea, T 966 462 275, Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00, Saturday 10.00 – 18.00. Altea: Partida Planet 177, Altea. T 965 841 399, Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00, Saturday 10.00 – 14.00.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Ho Ho Ho. We wish you a Merry Christmas from the Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show team at GM Promotions HQ!

2022 has turned into a very busy year as we burst back into event life and we have not stopped! If you have not heard the Costas Nº1 Lifestyle Exhibition is on the move for 2023!

And the Sky’s the limit quite literally! We are building up another cracker of an event for you at our new venue THE SUITOPIA Hotel the tallest building in Calpe!

The one and only SuperCASAfragilistic Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show will be reaching for the stars as we work on our 12th edition to be staged next year on Friday 5th & Saturday 6th May 2023.

Save the dates to visit us at our new venue, you won’t be disappointed at the Suitopia as it’s also home to THE SKY BAR on the 29th Floor! An awesome attraction in itself plus there is PLENTY of parking at the hotel and also just 2 minutes walk is the FREE CALPE Municipal town car park.

Just as we booked our dates and venue the King announced his coronation date too! So we are also going to make the 2023 Show edition a party of an event to celebrate the King’s Coronation! You may even able to win the Kings Ransom! Plenty of new ideas are in the pipeline!

At this “free to enter” event our fun features will be back: the Tapas Trail, The Caricaturist, Cooking Demos, The ‘VIP Bar’plus we have some new features up our sleeve …. But Shhhhh don’t tell, as we are working on a Secret Gin Garden! Our stars of the Show though, are our exhibitors and contributors - who will be on hand once again to bring you all the products, services and information you need to keep your Homes, Gardens, Lifestyle and Wellness all blooming in 2023!

Put the dates in your diary to come along to see, taste, try and buy at the Costa’s favourite event. We are now calling all businesses who would like to participate and showcase products and services to RESERVE YOUR STAND NOW! Join our hugely successful event here on the Costas - The perfect platform to promote your business to thousands of visitors! If your business is related to homes, gardens, lifestyle, wellbeing/wellness & the leisure industry, fiscal and financial then this is the Show for you… Anything goes as we provide the fun and feel good factor ensuring our visitors have a truly great Show experience! Team GM looks forward to the opportunity of working with all our existing and new clients to make this another roaring success packed with positivity for living life on the Costas! RESERVE YOUR STAND NOW or place to feature at the talks/demos, presentations & interactive workshops. Contact us office@gmpromotions.es. Tel 695 399 841. See www.gmpromotions.es. FB GM Promotions. FB Homes Gardens and Lifestyle Show.

Project Fish

The Arts Society

Marina Alta had made a commitment to continue their support for CEE Gargasindi School in 2022, after their successful production of an amazing collage using everyday objects in 2021. Which is still on display in the Casa De Cultura in Calpe. In recent discussions with the School they have expressed a wish to retain the existing frames and panels intact, their proposal is to exhibit the collage in the new school premises when the building is completed. The teachers and students are really pleased that our Society wishes to continue its relationship with CEE Gargasindi, and we have drawn up, together, the following proposal.

Our proposal is to start the project this year and plan for completion Jan / Feb 2023.

The school has a total of 58 students in 10 classes, split into Primary (6-12yrs.), Secondary (12-18yrs.) & Others (1822yrs.). The art groups are supported by two teachers and a ceramics teacher, with possibly three assists from the Arts Society and friends in support roles.

Project Fish will be lead by Mireille Vetterli, the Curator of Gallery Arte44 in Calpe, and a Society member, with direct responsibility to the Chair, and support from the Arts Society membership.

We intend to provide special raw clay to the school to enable the students to make between 60 – 100 fish shapes or more (some will get broken or fail) from an existing template. Refinements would be added later to the basic shapes to enhance the visual.

The fish will then be fired in a professional kiln offsite and returned to the school for the student classes to paint. The Arts Society will provide paints and brushes and hands to clean up!

The fish are then, under supervision, glued to the display boards, canvas panels with plaster finish, in swarms in various displays of swimming. The finished product is then displayed on each classes easel.

The displays will be presented to the teachers, parents, Art Society members and the press in the School auditorium. It has not been decided what to do with the finished artwork after the exhibition, but we have a few ideas.

The financial cost of this project has been carefully considered but with support from the Arts Society, it’s members and other sponsors, we should keep the overall spend within budget. Also, we will make up a Sponsorship board for individuals and businesses to be displayed at the time of the presentation, alongside our main sponsors banners.

We do need additional support both financial and hands on, for more information on our proposals and sponsorship please contact either Mireille at info@arte44calp.com or David at ch.marinaalta@theartssociety.org.

our oroscope

ARIES

Plans are in place in your head to make the end of the year better than ever before. Just don’t try to achieve something which is not possible otherwise you will just be disappointed. At the same time don’t settle for less than you can and make it memorable.

TAURUS

Although work is taking up a lot of your time, don’t let family and friends feel you are not giving them the time they deserve. Your communication skills will be put to the test as you try to ensure there are no misunderstandings.

GEMINI

Things will not be all plain sailing this month and without the help of relatives and friends you could find yourself completely out of your depth. Everything will be fine and no one will know how close it came.

CANCER

Celebrating is the one thing on your mind this month and you want everyone along for the ride. It doesn’t have to be to the extreme to have fun, in fact just the opposite.

LEO

Cooperating and a good plan will make the festivities more enjoyable for everyone. You don’t have to be involved in everything - pick wisely and you will really have a great holiday season.

VIRGO

Family time will bring everything into perspective and will make you appreciate what it is all about. Looking ahead to the next year and making a plan will give you such peace of mind.

LIBRA

Cooperation and harmony are the two things that have been lacking and you are intent on making things happen once and for all. Make sure everyone knows how you feel and the holidays will run more smoothly.

SCORPIO

Respect has been slipping and you are not prepared to continue into the new year like this. By talking it out and making a plan together things should improve. Better that than ultimatums.

SAGITTARIUS

Once you have a plan stick to it, last minute changes will just ruin things for everyone. Focus needs to be on the family first, as you all need some special time this month. Enjoy yourselves and make some happy memories together.

CAPRICORN

Conflicts need to be dealt with straight away - remind people it is the season of good will. Remember, mountains of presents are not the way to show how much you care.

AQUARIUS

Time spent with friends and family is so important for you now but work cannot be ignored. Putting a plan into place for the coming year will give everyone time to process it over the holiday period and come back firing on all cylinders.

PISCES

Relax as much as you can this month and let others pick up the slack. You need to go into the new year refreshed and full of energy so don’t over do the festivities. Everyone is excited for what 2023 has in store so make sure you keep up the momentum.

Freemasons help Calle de Amigos

At the Installation Meeting of local Freemason’s Lodge, White River, it was brought to their attention that the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Rodney Bignell, was going to donate five hundred euros to the Amigos de Calle an organisation in Valencia devoted to assisting those people that are homeless and those with no money. The Brethren were asked to collect as much food as possible in canned or dried form, along with toiletries and hygiene products and bring them to their November meeting. The response was overwhelming.

On Sunday 20th November they went to Valencia along with Bro Bob Harris to present the food and an extra anonymous donation of two hundred euros which was added to the five hundred euros given by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia. The food, products and money were gratefully received and will be put to very good use. Many thanks to all those generous people involved. If you are interested in joining Freemasonry, please contact me on the following email sec@glpvalencia.com.

WBro William G Turney ProvGCO Communications Officer, Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia

Across: