FOcus On Costa Blanca North September 2023

SPECSAVERS ÓPTICAS CONJURES

NEW RANGE OF HARRY POTTER INSPIRED GLASSES FOR CHILDREN

For over 20 years, Harry Potter™ and the Wizarding World™ have captivated the imagination of readers and moviegoers across the globe. Now, parents who grew up immersed in the fantastical universe can share the magic with their own little ones, with the new Harry Potter inspired collection of stylish yet practical children’s frames at Specsavers Ópticas.

Created in partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, the line is inspired by the boy wizard, arguably one of the most famous glasses wearers worldwide. The Harry Potter eyewear collection consists of six frames – two inspired by Harry Potter’s iconic round frames and four square to represent each of the Hogwarts houses. Suitable for kids aged 8–11 the range offers a style for everyone and a chance for children to capture the magic of Harry Potter every day. Made of lightweight acetate and metal with flexible hinges, they’re sturdy enough to endure whatever adventures the day may bring and are available as regular glasses or as sunglasses.

Featured Frames

HARRY POTTER™ 02

Nothing says “wizard” quite like these round-eye glasses. Made from thin silver metal with a black lining on the front and matching tips in acetate plastic. Complete with etched Harry Potter™ logo detail as well as the iconic lightning bolt on the temples and inside-left tip.

HARRY POTTER™ 03 - GRYFFINDOR

Whether you’re studying math, music or magic, you’ll be all set with these square Hogwartsinspired glasses. Gryffindor fans can show their allegiance to the infamous Hogwarts house with these stylish frames. Made from lightweight acetate with flexible hinges and Gryffindor house name, colours and motif detail on the sides. There are also frames for Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw fans to enjoy.

The collection is now available in all Specsavers Ópticas stores in Spain. Visit www.specsavers.es to find your nearest store.

NEW DIRECT CREMATION PLAN

Jennifer Cunningham Insurances are pleased to be able to now provide a Direct Cremation Plan, which provides everything you need at a lower cost. Our clients have been requesting this alternative for some time as a combination of both cost of living rises and social changes, which has resulted in our requirements for funerals to alter.

The Direct Cremation Plan includes everything necessary for an unattended cremation and provides all the paperwork required.

Especially for the Expats and their families, funerals can be a very stressful and complicated experience. When you purchase a funeral plan, you are making the whole process far easier and less stressful for your loved ones.

Prices are fixed, with either full payment or with a small deposit, and a payment schedule over 60 months which is interest free. There is no medical required, no health restrictions and no limit on age. In Spain, the funeral usually happens very quickly after death, which can be frightening and daunting for your family members to deal with. I cannot understand why you would not organise this, to help your loved ones at this very difficult time.

One phone call and the plan goes into operation. There is a choice of four plans, and all the documentation required is included.

If you decide that a funeral plan is not for you, you must make sure that your wishes are known, money is available immediately and that at least one of your loved ones has an NIE number. In line with Spanish law, direct cremation usually takes place 24-72 hours after death and prolonging this will incur extra mortuary expenses.

Death is always traumatic and exhausting – why make it even harder for those left behind. If you would like more information or a quotation, please contact one of my offices, email info@jennifercunningham.net or visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net

By the time you read this I hope my rain dance will have worked, and if not you will see me singing and washing the windows to make sure it rains and lowers the temperatures down.

We have family over as I am typing this and they are suffering a bit with the heat and humidity. Thank goodness for the pool and air conditioning. They went to Guadalest and the Algar waterfalls and said the water was quite low at both - more reason for me to do the rain dance. They could not believe the colour of the reservoir at Guadalest was natural, not sure what they thought had made it that colour.

This month sees the build up to a lot of fairs and events so get your diaries at the ready as there is something for everyone coming up. Next month the magazine celebrates its 30th anniversary which is something we are very proud of. I won't be baking a cake, much to the relief of anyone who knows me..........

Until next time, take care and be kind.

Pick

Lesley

To discuss your advertising needs in Focus on Costa Blanca North or QFocus Magazine (covering the southern Costa Blanca), contact your local representative:-

Calpe Stephen 663 663 120 stephen@femalefocusonline.com

Finestrat to Moraira Alan 689 358 232 alan@femalefocusonline.com

Gandía to Jávea Roddy 688 815 405 or 96 575 6833 roddy@femalefocusonline.com

Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055 editor@femalefocusonline.com advertising@femalefocusonline.com www.femalefocusonline.com

Who Said Retirement Shouldn’t Be Easy?

Retirement is supposed to be the time to enjoy your Golden years. To have all the time to take up those long-promised hobbies. To relax with friends. And then reality sets in and just looking after your lovely large villa means daily chores, mounting expense, and too tired for friends. So what’s the solution?

Many seniors look to down sizing as a solution, but this means moving and starting to make friends all over again. But imagine a place where you can move into a luxury apartment, where all the maintenance and upkeep are taken care of, where like minded people aren’t just close by, but are already your neighbours and where you can enjoy the peace of mind that 24/7 medical support can offer you. All set in beautifully landscaped gardens. You’re imagining Ciudad Patricia Senior Resort in the beautiful hills between vibrant Benidorm and a somewhat sleepier Albir. Their philosophy is simple: live independently in your own apartment for as long as possible, with all the support and community you want. Apartments range from 77m2 to 140m2 and are sold on a Lifetime Right of Use basis. This means a great deal of financial certainty which makes planning less stressful. A Central Building offers a thriving restaurant, bar, library, cinema and wonderful terraces. Staff are on hand to help you navigate your senior years easily helping with such things as doctor’s visits, translations, shopping and cleaning. It all adds up to the perfect living solution for seniors.

Open Day 28th September

If you haven’t experienced Ciudad Patricia, a perfect way is to go to their open day on 28th September starting at 11am. There will be an in-depth presentation with Q&A, a tour of the grounds and of course a visit to a show apartment. You’ll get a great feel for what life would be like at Europe’s leading senior resort. You can enjoy lunch in the restaurant and staff will be on hand to answer any questions during the afternoon. To reserve your space, call Line on 622 526 152 or email lcolman@ciudadpatricia.com. And to find out more, visit their website www.ciudadpatricia.com.

Financial Advice from our family to yours

Discretionary Fund Management – have you considered the benefits?

We have decided to revisit the benefits of utilising a discretionary fund manager this month, following several client enquiries on the back of a similar advert we ran just a few months ago. It is apparent that an increasing number of people are considering their investment options and alternative ways of managing their money.

In the investment world, there are two main styles of investment management; “active” and “passive” and as the name may suggest, an active style of investment management has more engagement, whilst a passive style of investment management takes a more relaxed approach.

Whilst there is no one size fits all, an increasingly popular way to invest is via a Discretionary Fund Manager (or “DFM” for short). A DFM will take an active approach to investment management and this could lead to better outcomes for the client – particularly in volatile times.

At Logic, we have seen first-hand the advantages of investors engaging with a DFM and believe the main benefits can be summarised as follows:

- Specialist investment management, aligned with the client’s attitude to risk.

- Clients benefit from the expertise of a team of investment specialists and fund managers.

- DFM´s have the ability to react quickly to market movements.

- Range of investment solutions, available in different currencies.

- Due to their size, DFM´s have a huge amount of research and analysis tools available, to help make investment decisions and build portfolios.

Due to these benefits, many clients believe they will be asked to pay a premium in fees each year in exchange for a DFM´s inclusion, but this is not always the case. When you have access to the whole of market like we do, there are often some very attractive and suitable solutions which the client may not be aware of.

This once again reemphasises the importance of reviewing portfolios regularly. In our opinion, this will give you the best chance of achieving your financial goals.

If you would like to discuss investment options available to you, or would like a second opinion on your existing investments, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

● Logic Financial Consultants are fully regulated & licensed financial advisers, covering the Costa Blanca, Murcia and Canary Islands. We can travel to you, or you can visit our office at Calle Andres Lambert 24, 1B, Jávea. Tel: 965 020 444. Email: info@logicfc.com Web: www.logicfinancialconsultants.com.

DAO DEFICIENCY

Bloating, constipation, or regular problems with headaches? Then you could be suffering with a deficiency of your DAO enzyme.

DAO Deficiency occurs when there is an alteration in the metabolism of food histamine, in other words, when for some reason there is a significant deficiency in the functional activity of the main enzyme in the metabolism of histamine.

The imbalance between ingested histamine and the histamine released from the histamine storage cells, leads to histamine accumulation in the plasma of the blood, triggering the occurrence of adverse effects on health.

In healthy people, histamine taken with food is degraded quickly by Diamine Oxidase (DAO) enzyme, but people with low functional DAO activity have the risk of suffering histamine intolerance. Unlike food allergy, the occurrence of symptoms is not linked to the intake of specific food; not only can it be related to a wide variety of food with different histamine contents, but symptoms can also occur even after the ingestion of products with low histamine levels.

Contact our GP now at Clinica Britannia for further investigations if you are suffering from:

• Migraine or vascular headaches.

• Constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, or regular bloating.

• Dermatological disorders such as dry skin, atopy, or psoriasis.

• Fibromyalgia and Chronic fatigue.

● Clinica Britannia, Ejércitos Españoles 16, 1st Floor, Calpe. Tel 965 837 553 or 607 255 755 - 24 hours a day - 365 days a year.

PROFHILO

The aging neck is a part of the body that worries men and women alike.

DR CAROLYN CARBASSE

B.D.S. MSc

(GUY'S LONDON)

Specialist in Dental and Facial Aesthetics

Director of Zen Smile Spa by C.C.

IS PROFHILO BETTER THAN FILLERS?

It is an area where we see laxity as well as ‘necklace’ lines which are often a cause of embarrassment, and try as we might the neck is difficult to hide in a warm place like Spain.

The new 10 point treatment using Profhilo® is a breakthrough in improving crepey and wrinkly skin in the neck region.

Profhilo® is a non cross linked hyaluronic acid which is unique in its kind in that it stimulates the production of collagen, penetrates deep into the skin’s layers and spreads out evenly.

This means for an area like the neck where the skin is thin, there are no risks of the product being visible and because of its composition, the results last for a prolonged period of time.

Generally, if you would like to achieve a more holistic result and improve your skin tone, Profhilo® is the best treatment for you. However, if you would rather make small changes to certain areas of your face such as your cheeks, dermal fillers are more suitable for you.

of

WWW.SPAJAVEA.ES

WWW.ZENSMILESPA.ES

WWW.BOTOXJAVEA.COM

Only 2 treatments are required 1 month apart with just 24 hours of down time. Using an anaesthetising gel prior to the session makes everything completely pain free.

Christmas Fayres in aid of The Friends of the Children of Emaus Charity

Come along and support the Christmas Fayres in aid of The Friends of the Children of Emaus Charity who help those children in care whose lives are less fortunate than our own.

Gail is the stallholder liaison, dealing with bookings and ensuring diversity of stalls at both fayres. We asked her what stalls were going to be at each event:

"We have a diverse range of stalls at each event. Some stall holders have booked both events, of course, but some are doing only one. So it's worth coming to both fayres!

"We've got Christmas gifts covered: everything for the kids, such as sweets and cakes, children's stocking fillers and, of course, a visit to Santa; whilst for those seeking a gift for a loved one, various stalls selling different styles of jewellery, clothes and accessories, as well as candles, giant made to order lights, Avon, teas and honey, jams and pickles, face creams and cosmetics even a Reiki specialist, and much more besides.

"We also have so many unique craft stalls this year, selling everything from paintings, acrylic art, knitwear, handmade jewellery, pebble pictures, Christmas cards and decorations, kneedlecraft and quilting, to name but a few.

"We are grateful to our sponsors, Andrew Turner Insurance of Jávea, and Ale Hop who kindly donated the large paper bags which everyone coming to the fayre will receive, as they enter, to put in their day's purchases.

"We are extremely grateful to all at Salones Carrasco in Jávea for hosting our 2 fayres on 5th and 26th November 2023, as they have done so for many years. You can find the venue on the Cam. Cabanes, 15, 03730 (Xàbia) Jávea. The event will run from 11am until 5pm. There is ample parking in the venues 2 large car parks.

"Entrance for adults is just 1€. Children are free. All monies raised from Santa (2€ to visit Santa which includes a great gift), the hamper raffle and any money left over after the venue and printing costs have been paid for will go directly to the charity 'Friends of the children of EMAUS'. Everyone who is working towards making this fayre a great, fun event are volunteers. We will be delighted to share with you photos and the 'Grand Total' after the event. Next month we will tell you more about the charity and the reasons we are all so passionate about making this event a success."

Oncology Update Meeting

Did you realise that Cancer Care Jávea has a laboratory in Denia hospital? It's called ECMOR and is a joint project between Cancer Care Jávea, Denia Hospital Oncology and CEU Cardenal Herrera University in Valencia.

The laboratory houses a genetic sequencing machine which they can use to look for genetic mutations in the biopsies of patient's tumours. We are very excited to create awareness about two incredible studies about to be carried out concerning triple negative breast and lung cancer for patients in the Marina Alta.

We are arranging an event that will be both informative and enlightening at Denia Hospital on 28 September at 2pm in the Salon de Actos. We encourage as many people as possible to come along. Learn more. Keep yourself informed. We are here to help you. But it is great to arm yourself with the knowledge required to help yourself and your loved ones too.

Through the research, the oncologists are able to offer individualised treatment plans and this oncology meeting will present this to both the public and medical profession. This is also an amazing opportunity for Questions & Answers with our team and some of the leading experts in the field that we work with.

We very much look forward to welcoming you. For more information about Cancer Care Jávea visit our Facebook page or website: www.cancercarejavea.org.

Teulada Moraira Lions Present A Night With The Entertainers

For one night only on Wednesday 20th September at the Senieta Moraira. Tickets are now available from the Lions Den charity shop Moraira, which is open six days a week from 10am to 1pm, for a 15€ donation. Contact 639 371 625 / 654 191 227 or email lion.richard1943@outlook.com.

All proceeds will go towards a mobility bus for The Alzheimer’s Association Teulada.

This occasion is being sponsored by Blevins Franks of Moraira.

Health is your wealth

Overall health - physical, mental, emotional & social health. Physical health - this is a person who looks after their diet, takes regular exercise and adequate rest. Also, it is a contribution towards good mental health.

- Eat slowly. Enjoy your food, give it time to digest.

- Drink more water. ...

- Take note of nutritional labels.

- Eat more fruits and vegetables. ...

- Work out (at least) 3 times a week. ...

- Quit smoking. ...

- Get a fitness tracker (and use it) ...

- Sleep for 6 – 8 hours daily.

Mental Health - Look Good Feel Good

How we think, feel & react, our emotional, psychological, and social well-being is so important. You can help all these by a simple visit to your hair & beauty salon.

Think of your hairdresser as not only your hair doctor who is going to perform miracles and change your hairstyle or colour, but, they’re also like a therapist - TALK THERAPIST - They’re there to listen not only to your beauty /hair needs but they’re also like your personal coach. Ask yourself, do you have a great relationship with your hairdresser?

I know myself as a hairdresser that I tell my regular clients nearly everything. But, most importantly I’m there to listen to their needs. Give advice if I can or just listen to them rant on. As well as providing a great hair or beauty experience.

Here are 5 reasons why a visit to the hair/beauty salon is good for your mental health and wellbeing.

- You’re actually doing something for yourself instead of thinking or helping others, which can be draining and can lead to you burning yourself out. So, a 1 to 1 with your hair/beauty stylist is the key. The feel good key.

- Laughter - children on average laugh 300 times a day, where as an adult may only laugh less than 20 times a day. In my salon; Mimiskru - laughter is one of our main key factors. We make people happy and comfortable and we are so proud of the many compliments from clients saying how they love to enter the salon and feel the good vibes as well as leave looking and feeling good.

- Too look good of course! Your hair is your crown, your appearance is your own self beauty, wether it be your nails or your complexion or your physic. Sometimes, or actually a lot of the time, you neglect yourself, and give priority to other things. Yet, on completion of your hair cut or beauty treatment, I always hear; 'That’s better, what an improvement, I should have done that years ago, you’ve made me look younger.' The list goes on. All this contributes and improves your self esteem.

- Relax - a great reason to visit the hair & beauty parlour. Whether it’s a head massage or a facial, all treatments are relaxing as you’re not doing it yourself to start. The brain can recharge, your body recharge, you as a person can recharge.

- Receive professional advice on how to care & maintain your treatments at home. Hairdressers give advice on how to treat your hair to keep it in good condition, also they educate you on styling your hair as naturally you want to be able to do your hair yourself. Your beautician can also advise you on skin care and products and your nail technician for aftercare advice.

All these contribute to your overall health. You take care of your car and send it for a service. But, what about you?

Mimiskru are a full service salon with a SMILE.

Magnum Concert Productions present the “Liverpool Band¨ in Concert

Saturday 21st October Teatre Auditorio Beniarbeig 7:30pm

Magnum Concert Productions are kicking off the autumn season with a fabulous tribute to the legendary Beatles performed by probably the best Beatles tribute band in Spain, if not in the whole of Europe. The Liverpool Band are a group of 4 very talented musicians who are based in the Alicante region, they have performed all over Europe and indeed have played in the famous ¨Cavern Club¨ in Liverpool on many occasions. Their renditions of all the famous Beatles hits are second to none, as is their stage act. We have regularly sold out these shows in Moraira and Teulada so do book early! This is a show not to be missed!

The show will be held in the superb Teatre Auditorio in Beniarbeig, with a full sound and light system and stage production by Magnum Concert Productions. There will also be a bar supplied by the Moors and Christians Festeros. The show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets cost €20 and can be reserved by calling 618 017 201 or by email: magnum.concerts@gmail.com. Tickets will also be available online at www.magnumconcerts.com

So come along and see a truly fab show, in a lovely theatre, especially as all profits will go to local charities including the Alzheimer’s centre in Teulada which is a great local cause. Many thanks for your support and I hope to see you soon. You can join our mailing list which will give you prior notification of all our future events by emailing: magnum.concerts@gmail.com

Peter Johnson CEO Magnum Concert Productions. Ps. Diary Dates – Sat 16th Dec will be our Christmas Spectacular featuring ¨The Entertainers¨ & 20th Feb 2024 will be ¨Queen Forever¨ featuring CHESS.

SINGERS SHOWCASE

The Teatre-Auditori in Beniarbeig (less than 10 minutes from the Ondara shopping centre) will be hosting 'Singers Showcase' on Thursday 21st September. The Showcase will be an evening filled with a diverse range of music from inspirational and uplifting to musical theatre, stopping off at popular music en route.

The whole show will be performed by four different singing groups, all under the direction of Philip Ashley. The theatre group Sounds Familiar will be performing excerpts from their previous show along with a preview of their new show. Also appearing will be two choirs, the Vall Del Pop Singers and Cantãmus. Both choirs will be showing off their own styles of music. Finally the harmony group Adagio will be singing songs from their past and future repertoire as well as hosting the entire evening.

Apart from the Showcase being great entertainment in itself, it will also give you the opportunity to see what is coming up on the Costa Blanca in the next six to eight months, so you can decide if you want to see more of any particular group.

Every group will be performing their own set separately, except in the Finale when all the groups will join together.

The evening will be helping to raise money for Jalon Valley HELP.

Doors open at 7.30pm with the show itself starting at 8pm.

Tickets are priced at €14 and available on 96 558 1483 or online at https://www.philipashley.com/boxoffice.php

The Arts Society Marina Alta. The next presentations for the Autumn season are on Thursday 5th October at Salones Canor Teulada. Doors open at 10:15am for registration and the presentation begins at 11am. Also, for those who prefer an evening entertainment we will be at The Parador in Jávea on the same date. Doors open at 18:45pm with the presentation at 19:30pm. Members and guests are invited to both events and the guest fee for each is 15€ on the door.

‘The Cuisine of Art and the Art of Cuisine’

By Ghislaine Howard.

Artists often talk about their art in culinary terms. When we look at a beautiful painting we do too! ‘Delectable!’ ‘Delicious!’ and the like. This lecture will be a feast for the eyes and the taste buds and will be a veritable inspiration for your cooking! It will feature the art, anecdotes and recipes of artists who loved their food.

An artist painting the delights of the table can do something chefs can only dream of, they can preserve the joy of food forever in a fabulous concoction of line, colour and texture whereas a cook's creation is gone in a moment.

Artists considered include Toulouse Lautrec, Renoir, Monet, Cezanne, Picasso and many others… …a culinary delight for all.

Ghislaine comes originally from Lancashire, and has had a passion for art from an early age. She honed her skills first at Manchester Polytechnic, followed by a degree in Fine Art from University of Newcastle, a time in London and Paris before returning to the joy of the Peak District.

An artist known for bold strokes in oil on canvases larger than herself, a painter of powerful and expressive means.

Exhibitions of her work have been made in Manchester, Liverpool and the Imperial War Museum (north) as well as numerous well known galleries in London. Recently she was an exhibitor and speaker at the 2022 Manchester Arts Fair.

In addition Ghislaine, in reflecting her passion for Art as Cuisine, together with her husband Michael have produced a recipe book with the presentation title.

For the benefit of all members, guests and visitors at Salones Canor we offer a glass of wine or soft drink at the end of the lecture. At The Parador the bar will be open at reduced prices, to allow socialising with the group, Committee and the Speaker. For more information please look at our new website https://marinaaltaart.wixsite.com/the-marina-alta-arts

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

Sé Tú the boutique specialising in ladies clothes

from EU 42-60 / UK 14-30

At Sé Tú we focus on important aspects of clothing. How does it make you feel? Is it comfortable? What shape, style and colours suit you and make you feel great? Not the tag with a ‘size’ on! #stylenotsize.

As the seasons change it’s a good time to review your collection and add some new pieces to freshen your look from our autumn collections… wardrobe organisation is important to maximise the use of items you have purchased. Often we have favourite items and the rest gets ignored! By grouping together each category of clothing e.g. all trousers together, tops, dresses etc. then roughly group into colours it can improve how you mix and match your clothes, because if you hang one specific pair of trousers and top together that is probably the only combination you will use!

Invite a friend/ relative whose option in clothing you trust and have a ‘trying on session’ so you can sift out items that no longer suit you/your lifestyle or are not a comfortable fit. A good sort out can be cathartic, many of us keep items that don’t fit well, this can be quite demoralising so we suggest you decide how each item makes you feel and take action! Through our lives our bodies change, a seasonal wardrobe review can be liberating, often minor changes are needed to an item to make it more comfortable/useable and we use a local dressmaker for alterations to transform your items. For all the items you are discarding they can find a new life by donating them to charity. Do you have a top/trousers/skirt that you have nothing to match with? It's a great idea to bring that item with you to find it a partner or two! We are very happy to offer assistance/guidance and give honest opinions! (if required). Only pack away the previous season items you love and prepare for the next season by treating yourself to some new items to complement your wardrobe collection. A few key items can give your collection a freshen up for example: adding accessories, a new jacket in a fabulous colour or new trousers to tie together lots of your patterned tops?....

A few more reasons to visit Se Tu….Reviews from some of our customers: ‘Visited the shop for the first time today. What a wonderful find! The sales assistant was so helpful. I will definitely be back’ - ‘Great clothes at great prices’ - ‘A unique dress great for my party’ - ‘Amazing shop-the clothes are fabulous quality, fit so well and priced well. The ladies go out of their way to help’ Pop in, have a browse, see what you can find to make you feel great….... See you soon. We are just over the road from Mercadona (Old Town/ Pueblo) in Jávea. Find us on Facebook & Instagram @setujavea

Where are the best Spanish cities to live?

Many people say the quality of life in Spain is great, but where is life even better? A survey by consumer organisation OCU reveals the city which is the top place to live.

OCU conducted the survey in 15 of the largest Spanish cities, including Alicante and Valencia. The organisation asked residents about their well-being in different areas of their lives, namely social, personal, work and family. They touched on areas such as public safety, health services, education, leisure and sports facilities, pollution, the environment, the cost of living, and house prices.

Using this data, the OCU experts ranked the 15 cities in order, which is 1 Vigo, 2 Zaragoza, 3 Bilbao, 4 Valladolid, 5 Córdoba, 6 Málaga, 7 Valencia, 8 Gijón, 9 Alicante, 10 Sevilla, 11 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 12 Murcia, 13 Palma de Mallorca, 14 Barcelona and 15 Madrid.

The Galican city of Vigo, which is well-known for its fabulous Christmas lights, stands out for its good ratings in the areas of safety, cleanliness, education and the environment. It is also seen as one of the best cities for families with children because of the quality of leisure and sports services as well as culture. On the downside, residents highlight the real estate market and job opportunities.

Madrid and Barcelona rank poorly in terms of the cost of living, environment and housing costs. However, on the plus side are the labour market, sports and leisure services.

The survey only looked at Spain’s largest cities. In general, Spain is regarded as one of the healthiest places to live and the World Health Organisation has recognised that the Costa Blanca is one of the best places to live due to its climate and healthy food.

Original Arts and Crafts Fair in Caudete

Due to the success of last year, the Department of Tourism of the Town Hall in Caudete (Albacete) has once again invited Amata to organise the San Miguel Craft Fair, which will take place on 29 and 30 September and 1 October. Amata is an association of artisans that celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and in all these years it has only admitted hand made goods, made by the participants themselves.

About thirty artisans are expected to exhibit and sell their work. Various artisans will be working at their stalls, so you can see with how much skill, patience, and loving care they make their pieces. You can ask them for explanations of techniques or tools and even order special things.

The potter will work on his wheel, inviting the public of all ages to make their own bowl or cup on the wheel and you can watch local artist Francisco Carrión carving stone. He and other artisans also give workshops for the children so that they can make their own piece of crafts and take it home. There will be artisans working with leather, pyrography, modelling clay, making pumpkin lamps and much more... They all love their craft and for that very reason they want to share their enthusiasm with you.

In addition, more than half of the artisans participate in the unique pieces contest. Throughout the fair, each artisan who has prepared a special piece exhibits it at his or her stall and the public can vote for the piece they like best. On Sunday afternoon the votes will be counted and the prizes will be awarded.

There will be plenty of choice, because each stall will offer something different, everything made by the artisans themselves. Ceramics and leather, wooden and soft toys; hand-painted t-shirts, soaps and natural cosmetics; shoes and sandals and several jewellery stalls in materials as varied as silver, wood, ceramics, recycled cans and macramé. There will be something for all tastes

While parents stroll through the stalls or recharge their batteries in the taverns, children can make their own crafts in one of the workshops, have a go at the merry-go-round or play board games. The fair is an initiative of the Department of Tourism and during the fair they also organise guided tours of the historic part of the town.

The stalls will be set up in the Plaza del Carmen, Calle Mayor and Plaza de la Iglesia. They will open on Friday, 29 September at 7pm; on Saturday and Sunday opening times will be from 11am until 2pm and from 6 until 9pm, although the taverns open more hours. You can check the program and the exact location of the fair at www.puebloartesano.es/caudete.

Bunions or HAV?

The Bunion or Hallux Valgus is a deformity of the foot caused by a deviation of the first toe towards the middle axis of the foot and a deviation of the first metatarsal towards the outer edge of the foot accompanied by irregular bone growth in the first metatarsal head and articular incongruity of the metatarsophalangeal joint. This causes pain due to inflammation of the soft tissues of the area from constant friction against footwear and from the structural and mechanical alteration due to the bone deviation. When is it recommended to operate on bunions?

It is recommended to operate on bunions when they are painful, when osteoarthritis appears or the structural deformity affects walking correctly which in turn affects other levels of the locomotor system. It is also advisable to perform surgery in cases in which as a result of the bunion, the toes are deforming like when the second toe appears hammer-like.

When a patient wishes to undergo an operation a professional should study each case individually, taking into account the age, health status, lifestyle ... etc. At Portalet Clinic, we will explain in detail and alleviate any worries without compromise.

What type of technique is carried out at Clinica Podológica Portalet?

We perform minimum incision surgery. As its name suggests, it is done using minimal skin incisions, usually 2 to 4mm. Through these millimetric incisions we can reach the soft tissues and bone, without causing injury to the adjacent tissues.

Advantages of Minimal Incision Surgery:

- Immediate recovery as the procedure is minimal. - The patient walks away with a post-surgical shoe without crutches or help. - After just 48 hours the patient can continue life as normal. - Almost painless. - No fixing bolts or needles used. One of the drawbacks of open surgery is the use of fixing materials, with Minimal Incision Surgery fixations are not necessary as the soft tissues themselves, which we have respected, the joint capsule and a light dressing are responsible for this. - Local anesthetic, only affecting the foot, so the dose used is less. - No hemostasia (restriction of blood flow). As the size of the incision is so small, there is little bleeding so there is no need for a tourniquet, thus avoiding all risks of cutting blood flow. - Less risk of infection. The small size of the incisions also decreases the risk of infection. - Barely visible scaring.

CLÍNICA PODOLÓGICA PORTALET

Experts in foot surgery - Bunions - Hammertoes - Calcaneal Spur - Helomas (Corn) Etc.

Other treatments available at our centre:- Removal of corns and calluses - Ingrown toenails - Removal of warts and fungi - Computerised study of the foot and footsteps - Made to measure orthopedic soles - Treatment for Diabetic Foot.

● C / Portalet 9, 1st floor G, entrance through the Serrella building in front of

email: info@calpepodologos.es or visit: www.calpepodologos.es

THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA

This association, formed in 1988, exists to foster comradeship amongst those who, having been awarded an official flying badge, have qualified to operate military aircraft and are serving or have served, as military aircrew in the armed forces of the United Kingdom or those nations which are allies of the United Kingdom or the Commonwealth. If you are interested in joining this popular association or would like to know more, please call the Secretary on 96 649 5228.

How Benidorm has grown in the past 70 years

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

“Think tall” and “aim for the sky” are phrases that could have been made with Benidorm in mind. Thanks to the vision of Pedro Zaragoza, Benidorm's mayor in the 1950s and 1960s, the town was able to build high and grow from a sleepy fishing village to become one of the top cities in Europe in terms of tall buildings.

In the 1950s, the fishing industry was declining and the mayor realised the future lay in tourism. The urban plan drawn up in 1956 allowed for high-rise buildings to be put up on undeveloped land to provide accommodation for tourists as well as long-term residents.

His plan paid off and today Benidorm, often seen as Spain’s very own Manhattan, ranks third in Europe in terms of the concentration of tall buildings in Europe. London and Milan take the top two spots. In Spain, it is behind Madrid and Barcelona in the total number of skyscrapers within its boundaries.

In fact, Benidorm has seven of the tallest buildings in Spain. These are Intempo - 203 metres; Gran Hotel Bali - 186m, Torre Lúgano158m, Neguri Gane - 145m, Edificio Kronos - 140m, Torre Mediterráneo - 135m, and Edificio Don Jorge - 124m.

Top tennis stars to play in Valencia

Valencia is set to be the scene for an incredible showdown between the two best male tennis players in the world - Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic - as they go to battle in the Davis Cup.

The Phoenix Rising Spiritualists

Our aim to provide a new concept on Spiritual Gatherings, and we are excited to be given a brand new space by the Ajuntamiento of Alfaz, for holding our weekly meetings at the Albir Social Centre on Mondays from 16.00 to 18.00.

We hope to form a unique group of like minded people, since it will be a Spiritual Organisation run by Spiritualists for Spiritual people and those who, in this ever changing World, are Spiritually curious and want to know more.

It is a chance to see the world's top tennis players such as Wimbledon Champion Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic, who has an impressive 23 Grand Slam titles to his name, as well as Javea's David Ferrer, who is captain of the Spain team. Group A consisting of Italy, Canada, Sweden and Chile will play in Bologna, Italy. Group B is made up of Great Britain, Australia, France and Switzerland and will play in Manchester. Group D teams - Croatia, Finland, Netherlands and the USA - compete in Split, Croatia.

The top two teams in each group will compete in the Final 8 in Malaga from November 21 to 26.

The schedule of play for Group C in Valencia is:

Tuesday September 12 is Serbia v the Republic of Korea

Wednesday September 13 Spain v the Czech Republic

Thursday September 14 Czech Republic v the Republic of Korea

Friday September 15 Spain v Serbia

Saturday September 16 Serbia v Czech Republic

Sunday September 17 Spain v the Republic of Korea

Tickets are available from www.daviscup.com/en/tickets/valencia

There will be visiting Mediums and Seances, Demonstrations and Workshops and Special Evenings; and we promise and will deliver: Faith, Friendship, Fellowship and Fun. Socially we shall be exploring the many bars and restaurants for locations for some social events after our weekly meetings.

Above all we hope that our new members will offer suggestions and support us on some new activities and new ventures. We want you to rise with us!

As the Phoenix bird rises, so do we, and what comes next is something rather wonderful, in true Spiritual energies. Opening night will be a social occasion and all are welcome to meet the team along with some of our International Mediums. You’ll get the messages that you want, the answers to any questions, and a guarantee that what comes next is up to you!

Place: Calle San Miguel 1 Albir (Next to Mercadona)

Inaugural meeting: September 4th. Time:16.00 to 18.00

Bus Number 10 serves Benidorm and Altea vía Albir, it’s a short walk away. We look forward to welcoming you.

Jane, Jaqui, Yvonne and Kenny

Enquiries: 681 64 68 71.

The Davis Cup Finals Group C stage is being held at the Pabellón Municipal Fuente de San Luis, Valencia, from September 12 to 17. Spain, Serbia, the Czech Republic and the Korea Republic will be going head to head for two places in the Davis Cup Final.

From June 2022 to June 2023, we donated nearly 17,000€ to various causes. Some of the donations were as follows, Caritas Calpe, 4,107€, Caritas Benissa, 3,600€, Cruz Roja Calpe, 3,710€, the new ambulance station in Calpe, 557.60€, and the Gargasindi School for Special Needs, 1,534,78€.

A large amount of this money was raised from our charity shop, on Calle Pintor Sorolla, 15, Calpe, and also from the wonderful events we have had during the financial year. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the clients, volunteers, and of course the members, for all their hard work.

We look forward to seeing you in the charity shop which is open from 10:00 till 13:00, Monday to Saturday.

If you would like to become a member, we are a friendly international group and meet every first Tuesday in the month. Our meeting in September being on the 5th, at el Toro restaurant in Calpe. We are always happy to receive donations for the shop and can pick them up if necessary.

We also hope to be at the El Canor Antiques Fair, on the 9th of October.

For any enquiries, please call Carole Saunders on 639 637 520, or email calcalpe@gmail.com.

Women’s Health and Wellbeing Event 10.30am 15th September at Jávea Golf Club

Women’s wellbeing - our quality of life is to be worked at!

On 15th September, at Jávea Golf Club, the European Union of Women, Marina Alta will be looking at our health, our wellbeing and how we can improve our quality of life.

In the hands of inspirational women practitioners we will consider innovative solutions to the issues which challenge women at every point in our life cycle. From nutrition to exercise, to the menopause and older age there are lessons to be learned, ideas to be shared and stories to tell. All welcome.

Forthcoming events: October - Tapas with EUWMA and discussions on the ongoing work in Spain, Europe and around the world on women's issues

November: International Day for the elimination of Violence against Women and Children.

For more information see us on Facebook 'European Union of Women Marina Alta' and email euwmarinaalta@gmail.com.

The Calpe and Benissa International Lions Club, would like to thank all those generous people that have helped them to have their best year yet.

CBBA CostaBlanca BusinessAssociation BusinessesYouCanTrust

Business networking is the process of establishing and maintaining relationships with other professionals in your industry or related fields. It can help small businesses to get new business opportunities, referrals, leads, advice, support, and exposure. Here are some reasons why business networking is important for small businesses:

• Expand your contacts • Build your reputation • Access opportunities • Improve your skills • Generate referrals

One example of a business networking group that can help small businesses to get new business is CBBA (Costa Blanca Business Association). CBBA is a group of reputable businesses that operate on the Costa Blanca in Spain. They offer their members various benefits such as:

• Twice Monthly meetings: where members can network with each other, share information and updates, exchange referrals and leads, and listen to guest speakers on relevant topics.

• Online directory: CBBA provides an online directory where members can promote their businesses to the public and other members.

The international collective of artists: ADAMA, Artistas de la Marina Alta, will be exhibiting paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography and an installation in the Casa de Cultura, Plaza Jaume 1, Dénia until the 16th September. Entry is free and opening times Monday

- Friday 11.00 - 14.00 and 17.00 - 21.00. Saturdays 11.30 - 13.30.

Artists exhibiting: Angel Lozano, Carmen Clavell, Caryana Castillo, Clara Palacios, Cristina Minguillon, Danie Huygens, Daniela Butsch, Estela Bellorini, Gabriel Martinez Linares, Hanka Van Der Flier, Isabel Martínez, Joana Busquet, José Carrascosa, Juan Arregui, Julia Rubio, Mabel Simó, Mairi Brydon, Neli Méngual, Oscar G Insua, Pablo Segarra, Paqui Giner, Theresa Braganza Jones.

• Events: CBBA organises various events throughout the year where members can network with each other and invite their guests. These events include breakfasts, workshops and social events

• Support: CBBA offers support and advice to their members on various aspects of running a successful business on the Costa Blanca. They also provide a platform where members can raise any issues or concerns they have and seek solutions from other members or experts.

• Generate new business through referrals: CBBA can help you get more referrals for your business. Referrals are one of the most effective ways to get new business because they are based on personal recommendations and testimonials. You can also give referrals to others and help them grow their business, which can strengthen your relationships and reputation.

To join CBBA or learn more about them, you can visit their website www.cbba.es, or email them at info@cbba.es.

A literary Treat for Costa Blanca readers

By Rhona Wells - rhonawells@hotmail.com

An internationally acclaimed author with historic associations to Jávea will be returning to the town in September to speak about her work.

Local charity Todos Juntos Jávea will host an event where Barbara Lamplugh, who is originally from Shropshire but has lived in Granada for over 20 years will talk about her work. The author has travelled extensively, and written books based on her journeys, including two novels set in Spain.

“I first visited Jávea in the mid-1990s,” she told FOCUS. “A friend had a holiday home in the town, and I spent holidays there, including one where I enjoyed a traditional Spanish Christmas with my children.”

However, it was about 20 years before Lamplugh would find herself in the area again when, while preparing to start work on her novel, The Red Gene. Lamplugh spent time at a writer’s retreat at the home of Christopher North, in the village of Relleu. “Christopher belongs to the Jávea Book Circle and invited me along to a meeting,” she explained. “The people there were extremely warm and welcoming and invited me back to talk about my book ‘Secrets of the Pomegranate’.

Lamplugh incorporated much of what she learned about life in Spain into Secrets of the Pomegranate, her debut novel published in 2015. Her local knowledge made her realise how different the reality of living in Spain was from the impression given in the tourist guides.

She set out to explore the undercurrents of racism and sexism as well as the frequently divisive politics but also to highlight the more positive factors in Spanish society: the warmth of the people and the magic of hidden places so rarely discovered by casual visitors.

Secrets of the Pomegranate is a tale of life changing secrets. Lamplugh’s heroine, Deborah, has lived for many years in Granada and is intimately involved in the city’s life and culture while her sister, Alice, is firmly grounded in England and has no understanding of Spain.

The novel opens in March 2004, with the terrorist attack on the train station in Madrid, in which Deborah is caught up. Everything that happens that fateful day has consequences and there are also unforeseen consequences for Alice, who fears that a long-held secret will be exposed, with life-changing results.

Deborah’s relationship with Hassan, a Moroccan, enables Lamplugh to explore the difficulties and potential misunderstandings in crosscultural relationships, as well as the attitudes of others towards them.

Lamplugh’s novel, The Red Gene, published in 2019, is set as Civil War breaks out in Spain in 1936. It follows the lives and experiences of Rose, a young English nurse with humanitarian ideals, who decides to volunteer in Spain, and those of Consuelo, a young girl growing up in a staunchly Catholic Spanish family. Consuelo discovers at a young age that she was adopted but, despite her best efforts, is unable to discover much about her origins. It is her daughter, Marisol, born in the year of Franco's death, who investigates her family's past and eventually finds the answers her mother has been seeking.

Lamplugh says she specifically wanted to throw light on that dark period of history that has been largely brushed under the carpet in Spain but nevertheless, has left a strong legacy. Her main inspiration came from the stolen babies’ scandal that hit the Spanish headlines a few years ago.

The writer also explains how it was important to write the story of Consuelo from a Spanish perspective, something she feel she is now able to do thanks to her knowledge of Spanish culture.

Tickets for the evening with Barbara Lamplugh at Casa Cultura, followed by tapas at the nearby Imperial Bar are priced at 25€. For further details please contact: todosjuntosjavea@gmail.com

Signed copies will be available for sale.

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.

ABOGADO - LAWYER

ACCIDENTE - ACCIDENT

ACUSADO - DEFENDANT

ACUSAR - ACCUSE

AMENAZA - THREAT

ATRACADOR - MUGGER

ATRACAR - TO MUG

CÁRCEL - JAIL

CARTERISTA - PICKPOCKET

COMISARÍA - POLICE STATION

CÓMPLICE - ACCESSORY

CONFESAR - CONFESS

CULPABLE - GUILTY

DECLARACIÓN - STATEMENT

DEFENDER - DEFEND

DELITO - CRIME

DETENER - ARREST

DISPARAR - SHOOT

FRAUDE - FRAUD

INOCENTE - INNOCENT

JUEZ - JUDGE

JUICIO - TRIAL

JUZGADO - COURT

Never a truer saying!

LADRÓN - THIEF

MULTA - FINE

TESTIGO - WITNESS

See back pages for answers

Celebrating World Paella Day

#YourHealthIsYourWealth

A wonderful world of WELLBEING, health, beauty and finding a balance in our lifestyles is being created and shaping up nicely for the one and only WELLBEING Expo by GM Promotions.

Save the dates!

The WELLBEING Health Beauty & Lifestyle Expo

Friday 17th & Saturday 18th NOVEMBER 2023

SALON CARRASCO - JAVEA - 10.00 - 17.00

It's all about YOU and your WELLBEING..... Health, Beauty, Lifestyle, Leisure & Wellbeing related products and services.

Would you like to be part of this exceptional event ?

If you are involved in these industries, mainstream, alternative, holistic, spiritual, eco and sustainability, zen gardens and internal and external accessories.

A great opportunity to personally spread your word and connect with potential clients and industry connections.

BOOK YOUR STAND NOW

Contact us for more details and stand availability!

GM Promotions. Telephone +34 695 399 841, email: gina@gmpromotions.es, website: www.gmpromotions.es

On Wednesday September 20, to coincide with the rice harvest, the Valencia community will be celebrating World Paella Day.

Everyone is invited to take part in celebrating the dish and sharing it with the rest of the world. All you need to do is prepare a paella, share it on social networks such as Facebook and Instagram with the hashtag #worldpaelladay, and join the move to make this popular dish go viral.

In Valencia, 10 international chefs will compete for the World Paella Day Cup 2023, which is a coveted prize for preparing the best paella in the world. The finalists will be invited to spend five days in Valencia, the birthplace of paella, to visit the rice fields in the Albufera Natural Park, Valencia's Central Market and more before competing in the grand final.

World Paella Day has been celebrated on September 20 since 2018 to recognise the most universal dish in Valencia's gastronomy. With eight million searches on the internet each year, paella is the fourth most important dish on the planet, according to the World Paella Day website.

Spain is the second highest rice-producing country in the European Union - Italy is top of the league. The crop originated in China around 13,500 years ago but only started to be cultivated in Europe in the 12th century when the Moors brought rice to the Iberian Peninsula.

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

Bad Job

We don’t take pleasure in having to deal with problems, especially when they have been created by other bad trades people. We were recently referred to a job, where a known professional garden company had laid some artificial grass. The reason being, the client wasn’t happy, and he had good reason as you can see from the pictures to the left. The joins had been done badly, there was no real infrastructure to the prep work, it was also short on the ends and poorly fixed.

The reason why I don’t take pleasure in this sort of work is because at the end of the day the client has to pay twice, and if they have friends or family come and see the substandard grass it becomes off putting when they see what “artificial grass looks like” and this really gets my backup. Good Artificial Grass, as seen in the picture on the right, when laid properly is a joy, our clients’ love it. And that’s what it’s all about, making clients say it’s the best choice they made, so when it looks bad, or a job is just done badly and wrong, it’s frustrating for the clients and for me. I always try and sell our services as best we can but we never get to everyone, and this is why this article is so important.

The grass was laid by a professional and legal garden company, yet the end result is still bad. And this is my point, I have been involved with gardens and building works for most of my life, leaving school to study architecture and moving forward through design and specialising in garden design. I’ve built two gardens at Chelsea flower show and worked and designed for one of the best UK garden landscape companies before starting my company, and dealing with artificial grass now for around 17 years, longer than anyone in the area. I am a garden designer who has just won Build Magazine’s, Architecture Award for best Mediterranean Garden Design 2023.

So please, don’t agree to any work with any garden contractor especially for artificial grass without speaking to us first, and avoid potential problems and expense. We help our clients figure the layout and how best to do things while keeping an eye on the efficiency of grass used, this is easy for us to create and we have the skills to do what is required to make your artificial grass area exactly what it’s supposed to be.

We work with Spanish grass manufacturers and most companies chase us to work with them because we have worked as a specialist for such a long time now. Look at our website and social media feeds and please call us before you make an expensive mistake.

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

Kenny Corris brings you

OUR OROSCOPE

Aries: Venus Directs at the start of a productive month. Finances are boosted by additional income from a surprising source, and your heart is open and free once more.

Taurus: The midmonth New Moon in the fifth house sees you going for action because words weren’t enough. Moving on is not running away; but it’s your best option.

Gemini: The Sun and Mars in the fifth house bring out your creative streak. You need solace and a free reign to set the record straight, but you’ll get there in your own time.

Cancer: Travel is indicated after the end of the Mercury retrograde on the 16th. Hold back on any plans, if you can, until then, and then you’ll find yourself in a far better place.

Leo: Actions between your planetary ruler, the Sun, and Mars are pre-active and not presumptive this month. You need to reach out to someone who needs your help badly.

Virgo: Your ruler, Mercury Directs mid month bringing you a time of renewal and a fresh beginning. It’s really not selfish to put yourself first; and so just go for it, if you can!

Libra: Mars occupies your first house of self this month. You are picking up where you left off, and somehow, despite all that you’ve gone through it’s time to think of yourself.

Scorpio: The Full Moon on the 29th in the sixth house shines a light on fitness and health issues. Take things easy and build up, you are strong willed when you want to be.

Sagittarius: The New Moon in your tenth house bids seeing possibilities in a new light. Nothing ventured is nothing gained, but limit risks if you can, and tread softly to start.

Capricorn: Jupiter and Uranus in cahoots hold the door open at last to the inner you. There is nothing to fear and much to be gained when you look deeply within yourself. Aquarius: You are gearing up for the Eclipse season next month, but that’s because you are aware of a sharp uplift in energy to compensate. You’ve started so you will finish.

Pisces: The Directs of both Venus and Mercury have had their toll on you. Go and recharge your energies anyway how, but know that you must make time for yourself.

As an Astrologer, Kenny has worked tirelessly for over forty years to produce quality Horoscopes Worldwide. He has received a major Award for his contribution to the Astrological Arts by being voted into the Top Twenty World’s Best Astrologers by the American Federation of Certified Psychics. He is awarded five stars as a Lightworker, and Psychic Medium. For personal readings/castings please call Kenny on: 686 361 594. kennycorris@hotmail.com www.kennycorris.com. Confidential and Personal Reply Guaranteed! Online Readings: by Zoom, Skype,WhatsApp, Viber, FaceTime.

Here are two Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try. It is not a math 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 Jostle (5)

9 Singular (7)

10 Correspondence (7)

11 Unctuous (5)

12 We rave about carpetmaker, perhaps (6)

14 Oddball (6)

17 Hate (6)

19 Burst of speed (6)

21 Distance of water exposed to the wind (5)

23 Snow vehicle (7)

24 Best (7)

25 Lustre (5)

Down

1 Recently hitched (5-3)

2 Theoretical (8)

3 Chafes (4)

4 Wagga Wagga woman or Manly man (6)

5 Mountain lion (4)

6 Drama (4)

8 "--- the bee sucks, there suck I" (Shakespeare, "The Tempest") (5)

13 "Poppycock!" (3)

14 Is no more (3)

15 Red Irene sorted out Christmas Dancer, for example (8)

16 Sociable (8)

18 Plot (6)

20 Layers (5)

21 Sell off (4)

22 Small children (4)

23 Unspecified in number (4)

See back pages for answers

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 and he 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 is a small, friendly ladies choir singing in three part harmony. They are well into their rehearsals in preparation for their upcoming Autumn concerts called 'Unstoppable'. Please note that the concert at Jàvea Players Studio in support of Cancer Care Javea is now on Sunday 15th October at 5pm. The other performance at La Fustera church on 14th October in support of the Costa Blanca Anglican Chaplaincy is also at 5pm. For more information contact musical director Aileen on 696 514 613. Careline Theatre: is in need of new talent. Actors, Ladies and Gents. Join them and walk the boards. Their next production is in October and it's a show full of Comedy, Song and Dance, with something for everyone to really enjoy with famous comedy sketch scenes to have you rolling in the aisles. Dates are 20, 21, 22 October at 8pm and Saturday and Sunday matinee at 3pm. Tickets on sale on the website www.carelinetheatre.net or email carelineboxoffice@gmail.com.

Costa Blanca

Male Voice Choir rehearses every Tuesday at 17:45 in Teulada. Their next appearance is Saturday 30th September in the "Choral Overload" multi- choir concert in Benitachell, introducing a new song among their top 3! On October 18th they perform a full concert at the DAR centre in Jávea, raising funds for the charity 'SOS Ukraine'.

Jávea Players: From the pen of Rising Damp and Only When I laugh, playwright Eric Chappell’s Wife After Death will have you doubled up with mirth. Death isn’t funny, but the comments made by Dave’s supposed friends as they pay their last respects, reveal sides of the ‘national treasure’ comedian which the others never knew. Box office opens: 29th September. See www.javeaplayers.com for more information.

Sounds Familiar are looking for new members to join them for their new show. Sounds Familiar have been producing musical shows since 2009. If you are interested in singing musical theatre and would like to join the group, please come along and give it a try. For more information, please see our website at www.soundsfamiliar.es or contact Philip on 96 558 1483, or philip@soundsfamiliar.es

The English Choir: After a successful summer of casual weekly singing, The English Choir returns for the autumn season on Thursday 7th September, 14:30 to 16:45 at their regular rehearsal room at the Pensionistas next to the Ayuntamiento in Teulada. The first event for the season is the spectacular “Choral Overload” on 30th September at Lady Elizabeth School, Cumbre del Sol. This extravaganza of 9 musical groups, each portraying their own musical style and genre, will end with a finale number of more than 160 singers taking to the stage. If you would like more information on The English Choir, check out their website www.englishchoir.com or call/WhatsApp the Secretary on 603 842 693.

The Phoenix Dancers: The weather may still be hot, but The Phoenix Dancers are already back in the studio learning new routines! The group hope to be included in the usual round of festivals and fairs this autumn, so it’s an excellent time to get in touch. New members of any age or level of experience are always welcome. There are also opportunities for volunteers, and it’s a great way to make new friends. If you feel that dancers can enhance one of your events, especially if you are a charity or voluntary organisation, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with Phaedra on 607 290 896.

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

Founded by Benny Davis in 2007

Walk Your Way Well with

Niamh O'Sheehan

Most of us know the important benefits of exercising on a regular basis, as not only is it great physically but also mentally. So why, oh why, do we find it so difficult!? Despite our best intentions it can be hard to stick to a workout plan. It is easy to come up with excuses not to exercise and can be hard to motivate yourself at times. I thought it would be fun to look at (and smash!) the top 5 reasons I hear most frequently about why we aren't tackling our fitness. I bet many of us will relate to some of these excuses!

“I hate exercising.” Not everyone enjoys exercising in the same way. If sweating in a gym sounds more like a punishment to you, then you are probably not alone. It's important to find things that you enjoy. You can't possibly hate EVERY SINGLE type of exercise known to man! I don't buy it. I absolutely LOVE walking. Have you tried it? It's probably one of the absolute easiest on the list.

“I am too busy.” Being busy can be stressful, we all have a lot on our plate and it can be hard to fit in exercise. But for an effective workout, you don't need to exercise for hours. A 20-30 minute session can be just as effective. Instead of trying to find time to work out, try to think: how can I make time? Any activity is better than none. Even the busiest of people find time to do activities that are important, so it's about making exercise a priority. Guess why? Because exercise really should be a TOP priority!

“I am too tired.” We know when you are tired there is nothing more you want to do than relax. However, exercising actually REDUCES fatigue and can boost energy levels. By completing regular exercise you will feel a lot more energised. And walking is definitely the least "offensive" exercise if you are exhausted. A 30-45 minute stretch will definitely wake you up. You won't be sorry.

“It's too difficult or painful.” Exercise shouldn't be painful at all. There is a difference between physical pain and body fatigue. You don’t have to push yourself until you are drenched with sweat or so that every muscle in your body aches after each workout. Exercise can be difficult to start off with, it takes time and lots of practice to get the technique spot on. Walking generally does not cause too much discomfort if you start slow and steady. It's a fantastic place to start and it's non-impàct nature is easy on the body.

“I am too old.” We are all probably aware of the saying “age is nothing but a number”, and this is also true with exercise. You are never too old to exercise. Depending on age, mobility and health you may have to get some advice from a doctor or expert. But you can still do something to keep active. These could vary from low-impact exercises to mobility or even strength training. There are so many great benefits to keep exercising such as it can help with muscle loss, decreases the risk of falls and improves mental health. If you are still mobile then get out for a walk. It will do you the world of good.

If you'd like to introduce walking into your life why not follow me on @Walk Your Way Well? Join in one of our walking events. If you'd like one-to-one "walk 'n talk" coach sessions I'm here to help. We can get you moving and KEEP you moving. Drop me a WhatsApp +34 676507791.

AFPO (Association of Foreign Property Owners) General Meeting, Tues 3rd October

AFPO will hold its autumn meeting at 10.30am on Tuesday the 3rd of October, in the Diamante Beach Hotel.

A talk will be given by La Caixa on the subject of their personal alarms, MyBox Protección, and a general up-date on important topics will be discussed with the committee members. Light refreshments will be offered afterwards. New members always welcome. For more information please contact Carole on 639 637 520, or email: calcalpe@gmail.com or go to our website: www.afpocalpe.com

U3A Marina Baixa

Following our summer break, the next meeting will be on Monday 25 September at 11am in the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi. So why not put a note in your diary to come along when you can find out more about what U3A Marina Baixa has to offer and also have the opportunity to book for the trip to the Marq Museum in Alicante to see the visiting exhibition of the Chinese Terracotta Warriors on 20 October.

Open Mic Night at La Bresca in Els Poblets!

With the hot and humid weather and lots of people either away or having visitors we were pleasantly surprised to have twelve amateur performers at the July open mic night at La Bresca.

Some repeat performers, Cazzie, Doug, the three Daves, Jerry, Ian & Gladys, Alexis, Ann and Terry on drum but also some new faces, including Antonio a local guitarist, who performed in Spanish and a guest appearance from Don who kindly managed the Music equipment during the evening.

We had a variety of instruments including ukulele, guitar and melodium, each performer had the opportunity to do a first set of three numbers followed by two more in the second half of the evening.

The Audience of lucky diners were treated to many classic numbers from the rock n roll era through to modern pop and we also had a great rendition of the comedy classic, the Ballad of Barry and Freda by Victoria Woods, superbly performed by our co-host Cazzie. This gig, The Open Mic Night is proving to be a very popular way of having free evening entertainment, whilst giving local amateur musicians the opportunity to perform before a live audience. Our next monthly open mic night is on 21 September at 7pm at La Bresca in Els Poblets. Richard Millington.

HELPLINE NUMBERS

HELP OF MARINA ALTA: Tel: 966 427 044 - www.helpmarinaalta.org

MABS CANCER SUPPORT: Tel: 634 311 690 - www.mabscancerfoundation.com

SAMARITANS IN SPAIN: Freephone 900 525 100 - pat@samaritansinspain.com

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS:

C. Blanca North: 648 169 045 - www.aa-costablanca.org

C. Blanca South: 625 912 078 - www.aa-costablanca.org

AL-ANON BENIDORM: Tel: 634 758 539.

The Aircrew Association

Costa Blanca Salutes

Its Oldest Member John

Russell On The Occasion

Of His 103rd Birthday

The Aircrew Association

Costs Blanca was delighted to acknowledge the 103rd Birthday of its oldest member, John Russell, on Tuesday 25th July. John, a resident of the Port in Jávea, is a long serving Member of the Association and continues to participate actively in the life of the Association whenever possible.

John deservedly received the award of the French Legion D’Honneur on the 16th June in 2021 for his outstanding service in contributing to the liberation of France in the Second World War.

He is a remarkably youthful centenarian and we wish him many congratulations on reaching his 103rd!

Happy Birthday John and we look forward to many more!

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Jávea Feral Cats launch its third

Padel Tournament & Gala Weekend

Play it, win it, love it! Whether you want to compete, spectate or participate these are dates for your diary - Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th September 2023. It is the Jávea Feral Cat Association Padel Tournament and Gala Weekend at Club de Padel, Paris 24, Avinguda de Paris, Jávea, Rosa Cardona, Mayor of Jávea will be presenting the tournament trophies. A massive 96 entries have been received and there is a reserve list!

The raffle is always extremely popular, with some fantastic prizes this year. A luxury beauty and spa hamper with beauty and hair treatments, wine hampers too, all worth over 150€. Plus, a variety of vouchers from local salons and restaurants. Tickets will be sold on Saturday and Sunday with prize draws on Sunday 5pm.

There will also be the opportunity to bid on a long weekend to Caravaca De La Cruz for a family of four, in a beautiful selfcontained cottage, including a three-hour complementary tour of the local areas in a jeep. The holiday will be open for bidding up to two weeks before the event.

On Sunday, the fun day, there will be entertainment from 1pm by Ian Hunt, The Jávea Alleycats, Pixiestix and DJ Mike Dennison. Cortado’s cake stall will be open all day, or until the cakes and pastries run out!

Julie Keene, Vice President Jávea Feral Cats comments: “Our padel tournaments and gala days have always been extremely successful. Last year we raised a much needed 3800€, which paid for neutering and a small amount for vet’s fees. We are very grateful for the support from our local community, Padel 24, local businesses and all our volunteers.

We are very excited about the event and look forward to the local community joining us and having a fun day out.”

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.

This sweetheart, four years old, is a little timid at first but, when you engage with her, she is very affectionate and loves a cuddle. She gets on well with dogs, cats, chickens, children and humans, walks well on the leash and is clean in her kennel. Please contact Akira on 657 689 567 or email akirashelter@aol.com.

Diavla is an American Stafford DOB 05.19. Diavla should be a single dog and will only be given to very experienced dog owners (PPP license). She does not like walks so needs a very large, fenced garden to run around freely. Once she takes "her" people into her heart she is very loyal. Please call 618 754 635 or visit www.apasa.eu.

Solet is a beautiful cat, born approx July 2022 and is castrated. He is an affectionate house trained cat. Solet has suspected Calicirvirus Felina and so needs a loving home for him with another cat with the same condition or as the only cat of the house, or with dogs. For more info 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.

We have many lovely cats and kittens. 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

Felicia has always been overlooked and because she has autism and won’t fit in well with other dogs. But she is an amazing, loving, smart older lady with lots of energy. No escape artist or barker either. Great companion for an older couple or single. Want to know more about our Felicia, or our other dogs? Contact us on Facebook 'Tanamera Rescue' or by email stichtingtanamera@gmail.com.

Nubbin is a really loving dog and in desperate need for a forever home, He is around 5 years old and is good with children and other dogs. If you are interested you can visit him in Benidorm Animal Shelter between 10am - 1pm Mon - Fri, Tel: 965 856 268. Website: www.protectorabenidorm.org

10 year old Sandy is a dear older lady, sweet and kind. Our hope for her is to know the love of a family and the comfort of her own home. Gentle walks, a comfy bed and kind words are all she needs. For more information please email apropego@gmail.com or call 654 616 043.

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I BUY RECORDS LPs, EPs, SINGLES. 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s years. Good prices paid. Tel. 962 851 809 - 622 750 117.

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