Dep. Legal A-685-2016
E FR E
November 2021
Female Focus Publications serving the English speaking community throughout the Costa Blanca since 1993
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QFocus Magazine November 2021
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THE CONSTELLATION AQUARIUS AND YOUR FIRST TELESCOPE
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his month I'll continue with our tour through the constellations of the zodiac, and then we'll be having a break from these for a while. I've had quite a lot of emails over the months about what telescope to buy, and it's not a simple subject so I think it's time I went into this properly. OK, Aquarius first, most people only know the name from horoscopes, but it's a really interesting area of the sky to look at, and easy to find at the moment. Unfortunately, there's not much for the naked eye star gazer to see, but even a small telescope will reveal some wonders. Find Aquarius by looking due south, you'll see Jupiter big and bright and at the moment it's on the right hand side of the constellation. Going straight up from Jupiter is a dimmish star, Sadalsud, a supergiant star, a class that has some of the biggest stars we know, if it weren't 1100 light years away it would be utterly spectacular. Going up again there is a beautiful planetary nebular called M2. Planetary nebulas are among my favourite objects, an expanding disc of gasses blown off when a star reaches the end of its life. There's another nebula in Aquarius, called the Saturn nebula, it's below and to the right of Jupiter. The expanding gasses that blew off when its star died have formed not just a disc, but an extension on each side that makes it look a bit like our ringed planet, it's well worth looking for.
TELESCOPES
Choosing your first telescope can be a rather daunting and confusing business, lots of terms and words you are not familiar with and it can be expensive. The most expensive telescopes are those that are bought, used once and then put away forever, just a waste of money. Common reasons for this are that the buyer either found it too difficult, or didn't know what to do once the 'scope was set up or was just very disappointed when they looked through it, probably at the moon. My aim over the next few months is to go into a little detail about telescopes, what's important, different types, what to expect from one, and of course, how much you'll need to spend. I will finish this month with a warning, please don't go out and buy one of those telescopes sometimes seen in major stores, usually white, sometimes with lots of impressive looking twiddly bits and a flimsy wooden tripod. They really aren't suitable for our hobby. I'm aware that I'm in print so I must be circumspect about what I say, so I'll let you guess at my true language to describe these. Next month I'll begin telling you about real telescopes, and you won't necessarily be spending my Group a fortune, so until then enjoy our clear autumn skies. Charles Oates, Vega Baja Astrono ● To find out more about observing and astronomy, email us at vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com.
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QF���� Maga���e N��e��e� 2021
e are all still experiencing changes as a result of BREXIT and here is a little bit more useful information regarding the changes that are occurring all the time, and this is regarding GB stickers for your car. All UK registered vehicles must now have a UK sticker to replace the GB sticker. If you have GB on the number plate, you will still need a UK sticker and this must be placed on the rear of the vehicle. Can I suggest that if you have not yet done this, do it immediately as it will save you a lot of bother, as I understand that the police are regularly pulling over UK plated vehicles.
I along with many, am feeling frustrated at the way Spanish banks are behaving. Some are on strike, which is totally unbelievable, whilst many are offering very restricted service due to lack of staff and there is the continuing process of closing of branches. I fully appreciate that we need banks for all financial transactions, however you do not need to go to them for house, car or life insurance. The after sales that you will receive will be practically non-existent and you will be on your own regarding a claim and also, do you really know what cover you have and are your documents in English? Then of course, there is the situation which I do not like at all – automatic renewal. Therefore please find the time to check your documents and the renewal date, taking into account that you have to give a month's notice, and come and talk to one of the ladies, or give us a call and we will explain the difference between our policies and the banks and assure you of the excellent after sales procedures. There is nothing more frustrating in having a query which you can't get answered and this of course, is unacceptable and will never happen in my company. ● For more information or a quotation, please call one of my offices, visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net or email info@jennifercunningham.net.
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Over the past few weeks there has definitely been an influx of visitors, and we are now starting to see the upturn of businesses returning to their normal trade. I have noticed this specifically in the real estate sector as we have been house hunting ourselves and as soon as properties are listed they are selling in record time. This is great news as the real estate is the core for every business here providing new blood to the area - long may it continue. On a personal level, we have also had our fair share of visitors, some of whom we have not seen for a few years, and it has been a fantastic time catching up with them. Along with entertaining our friends, I am also trying to get ready to move house, as well as keep up with work deadlines as the Autumn / Winter Professional Services publication will be hitting the streets imminently (make sure you grab your copy). Oh, and I really need to start on some Christmas shopping. One question keeps popping into my mind - where do I start? Until next time... ichelle
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CROSSWORD Across 1 Temper respect for Court staff (7) 5 Scandinavian vegetable? (5) 9 Install machinery (8) 10 Otherwise (4) 11 On the level (4) 12 Main highway (6) 13 Tailed orbiter (5) 15 Floor covering (3) 16 Short Christian patriarch? (3) 17 Grecian architectural style (5) 18 Book most users read as a last resort (6) 20 Cat's scratcher (4) 23 Type of accountant? (4) 24 Taskmaster (8) 25 Nuisances (5) 26 Somerset cheese (7) Down 2 Company of singers (5) 3 Shield (7) 4 It can stop play (4) 6 Pasta base (5) 7 Merit (7) 8 Defective magneto is a huge burden (7) 14 Receptacle for letters (7) 15 Ascertain dimensions (7) 16 Charged (7) 19 Not suitable (5) 21 Sports complex (5) 22 Net (4) See classified pages for answers
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QFocus Magazine November 2021
QFocus Magazine November 2021
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DO YOU NEED A BETTER RETURN ON YOUR SAVINGS?
If so, read on.... The table shows a summary of Central Bank interest expectations and currency pairing rates taken from Bloomberg Market Analysis during October. I was very interested to read that Bank interest rates are predicted to increase in the UK albeit miniscule, whereas the Eurozone might be showing no positive effects in its economy at all and its interest rates might remain stagnant. Meanwhile, Sterling also shows that it might strengthen against the dollar next year. Our most popular investment returns 3.3% per annum after charges so you will receive 3.3%/365 everyday into your investment account. It is an investment account so we have to ensure the product is a good fit for you, and explain a few things about it, however, you could be earning straight away should you want a better return that the banks currently offer, or are likely to in 2022. Please call or email me. ● David Diggle C.A.T. DipFA. Telephone: 615 607 278 / 865 751 713 / 965 704 338. Seagate Wealth Management, Avenida Federico Garcia, 101, Benijofar, 03178, Alicante, South Costa Blanca. Email: info@daviddiggle.es / dave.diggle@seagatewealth.es. Website: www.daviddiggle.es / seagatewealth.es See advert below for more information
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MOST IMPORTANT CHECK-UPS FOR WOMEN ACCORDING TO AGE
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QFocus Magazine November 2021
he World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends undergoing at least one full checkup every four years before the age of 40. For women, it is also necessary to consider that your body goes through significant changes as you age, so we advise applying preventive measures that could be essential for your health. body mass index, as well as a skin analysis, Stages of Women’s Health During each stage, different factors need to be considered. Firstly, in order to rule out possible pathologies or during their adolescence and twenties, “for women in this age melanomas,” explains Doctor Catalá. This group, it is important to prevent sexually transmitted diseases is the age range at which we start screening (STIs), as well as unwanted pregnancies, because most women are programmes for breast pathologies with already sexually active,” explains Judith Catalá Serrat, a physician yearly mammograms, and we start to specialised in General Medicine at Hospital Quirónsalud Alicante. perform colorectal cancer prevention tests, Doctor Catalá notes that during this stage, “it is also important to taking a faecal occult blood test (FOBT) assess the consumption of toxic substances and eating habits, as every two years. well as undergoing to gynaecological controls and early detection After 60 tests such as cytology.” Hearing and eyesight problems are two of the issues to consider after women turn 60. In this case, the specialists at Quirónsalud Between 30 and 40 Years of Age “At this age, programmed cytologies should continue, and women hospitals recommend annual check-ups with the ophthalmologist should get sonograms and mammograms if there is any finding and the ear, nose, and throat specialist. At the same time, women during a physical examination,” states Doctor Yaquelin Popa, a over 60 are in a risk group for contracting the flu, due to which Family Medicine Specialist at Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja. At vaccinating the patient every winter should be considered. This this age, women should also undergo blood tests to assess whether age range is also when women should undergo control tests to they have anaemia, or alterations to the kidneys, liver, thyroid or check for the existence of osteoporosis, and measure calcium and kidney function; likewise, gynaecological sonograms and cholesterol.” mammary examinations are recommended in order to rule out Between 40 and 50: Taking Greater Precautions diseases in areas such as the ovaries or the uterus. Between the ages of 40 and 50, the age at which women can contract diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high ● Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja. Partida de la Loma, cholesterol, obesity, pre-menopause and cervical or breast cancer, s/n, 03184 Torrevieja. Tel: 966 921 313, email: among others, so women should enter a new preventive phase, info.torrevieja@quironsalud.es. www.quironsalud.es. warn physicians. To do this, “they must undergo an adequate examination that includes measuring blood pressure, weight, and See our main advert on page 5.
QFocus Magazine November 2021
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How Building Inspectors detect extensions done without licence. Read this to avoid being fined.
Here are 4 common ways Building Inspectors detect unlicensed extensions to properties you can use to protect your property being fined or receiving demolition orders. 1: Building work in plots that have already used its maximum build square metres, so any extension to them can’t possibly have had a licence. All plots have a maximum metres of built sizes allowed. This is known as maximum built area allowed. If the property has already reached the maximum size allowed, no major licence will be issued. 2: Extensions violating the minimum required distance to the plot’s boundaries Permanent carports, or any kind of roofed buildings that are violating the minimum required distance to the plot’s boundaries is a reason to decline a license. National planning laws for detached properties require a minimum distance between a window and a neighbour’s boundary of 2 metres. Regional and local laws may allow between 3 to even 5 metres or more. There are many variables depending on different factors. A Certificate of Antiquity/ Retrospective Licence is the only document that can avoid previous works being objected to or fined by the planning department at the Town Hall. 3: Closing in small existing gaps in the property: patios, existing terraces, porches Most glass or bricked enclosed terraces and porches will not be allowed to be glazed in or transformed into interior spaces. Spanish properties traditionally tend to have patios and courtyards, along with semi-opened spaces like porches and partially covered terraces to provide shelter from the sun and maximise on the outdoor lifestyle. These semi-opened spaces are easily closed-in, but the bureaucracy is not as easy. These works, however small you might consider them, are adding to the registered square metres of the property and often permissions are declined. A Certificate of Antiquity/Retrospective Licence is the only document that can make these works accepted by the planning department at the Town Hall. 4: Underbuilds are not allowed to be used for living accommodations. Underbuilds with living accommodation are never done with the correct
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licences and again; a Certificate of Antiquity/Retrospective Licence is the only document that can prevent prosecution for any interior alterations done at the property or alterations that don’t meet the planning standards. Not all property owners that have done building work without a licence are entitled to obtain a Retrospective Licence. Note the following conditions: •In the Murcia area, the conditions in order to obtain a Retrospective Licence is that the building work already done is a minimum of 4 years old. •In the Almeria area, the building work needs to be over 6 years old. •In the Alicante area, the building work needs to have been completed before August 2010 (over 11 years approximately). •No retrospective licences can be issued for extensions that have already been fined for. Once issued, this document acts as licence, protecting the owner against possible sanctions from the Town Hall. It is highly recommended to avoid putting off potential buyers due to the existence of illegal extensions in the property. It will also be needed on completion of the sale in order to update the property’s description in Title Deeds & Land Registry. The cost of an Antiquity Certificate/Retrospective Licence for pools is 190€ + IVA and extensions or complete properties only 270€ + IVA. Discounts are available if you also require an Energy Performance Certificate (121€ IVA Inc.), Habitation Licence (from 118€ IVA included, Registration Tax not included) or any other of our services done at the same time. If you want to have YOUR Retrospective Licence/Antiquity Certificate for your extension or pool now, in accordance with present laws and protect against possible future changes in the laws that may affect you, Martinez de la Casa Architects will arrange an appointment and guarantee the delivery of the Certificate of Antiquity within 10 working days after our survey. For all enquiries, or to arrange an appointment if you want to have your pool or extension certificate now and protect yourself against future law changes that may affect you, please call 665 810 411 or visit www.martinezdelacasa.com to see an impressive list of over 200 client's testimonials.
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Book Review by Ivor Kindle Title: Unreliable Memoirs /Falling toward England Author: Clive James Publisher: Pan I first read these two books way back in the mid seventies. I was a fan of the Clive James' column in the Sunday Observer and therefore the books were a logical extension to my reading enjoyment. The books tell of Clive James growing up in Australia in the 50s and later of his coming to England in search of work. As an aside of the Covid pandemic I have been re reading some of my favourite books from my distant past. These two books are both very funny and tell a good story of the trials and tribulations that life throws at people as they come of age in what was a somewhat different world of the 50s, 60s and 70s. Clive James' writing style is full of self deprecating dry wit and is well written and is a good laugh. Clive James died on 24 November 2019 in Cambridge England of Leukemia. Keep reading, Ivor Kindle.
The animals need your help We have a lot of animals on specific food through illness as well as a lot of kittens. Our policy has always been we would do the best we can for each animal and that hasn’t changed. Because of COVID these last 18 months have been very trying and for the first time we find ourselves in quite a lot of debt as our charity shop in Zenia (above Mercadona) was closed for periods of time. Our vets are very accommodating but bills still have to be paid and we slowly got deeper and deeper in debt and as a charity we are struggling. We need help to keep feeding and caring for our animals. Besides the animals that are on specific food, we have lots on a normal diet and we get most food from the Mercadona or we receive donations in the Torrevieja Overseas shop. If anybody would like to buy them something we would be most grateful. Thank you to everybody who has supported us. We may be down at the moment but we are still fighting for them. Little Pod Association Charity Number CV-01-049800-A and NIF G-54606074. Visit our Facebook page 'Little Pod Association' for information on how you can donate. Thank you.
QFocus Magazine November 2021
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The Treasure Chest Quesada & La Marina
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t is no big secret that most businesses have been suffering due to Brexit and Covid, Kelly and Terry were not prepared to allow either of these issues to effect The Treasure Chest, quite the opposite. With the shop quieter than normal, whatever normal is these days, and the staff due to return from ERTE, they decided to take the plunge and open a second shop, The Little Treasure Chest, situated in Urbanisation La Marina. Little Treasure Chest offers much the same service as Quesada but as the name suggests on a slightly smaller scale. You will find Terry there most days, he's tried to retire on 3 occasions but Kelly wasn't having any of it. Terry has mastered the art of gift wrapping so please remember this service is always available in both stores. For those of you who have not yet visited the stores, The Treasure Chest as the name suggests, offers a range of greetings cards and gifts for all occasions, from Gold, Silver, Fashion jewellery & watches. We all love a little sparkle so photo frames, T lights, oil burners, glitzy animals and figurines are also available, along with the very popular electric aroma lamps to add that lovely warmth to your home. Christmas Cards are now in stock along with 2022 calendars and diaries. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers with a Black The Treasure Chest, Quesada Friday weekend in Quesada 10% off with this voucher 12th & 13th Nov on 12th and 13th November and a Black Friday Fortnight Excluding greetings cards, gold, Oseco in La Marina from 5th to range,aroma lamps and melts. 19th November where you will receive 10% off most items with the voucher alongside. So come and grab yourself some great bargains just in time for The Little Treasure Chest, La Marina Christmas. 10% off with this voucher 5th - 19th Nov The Little Treasure Chest can be found on Av De Londres between Cuts R Us and Jodie's Groom Room and opposite Bells Butchers Excluding greetings cards, aroma lamps and melts. and of course in Quesada situated on the High Street.
10% OFF VOUCHER
10% OFF VOUCHER
QFocus Magazine November 2021
www.femalefocusonline.com Page 12 cut to Universal Credit to people who quite simply cannot afford any cut to their standard of living, followed by rising energy costs, followed by the abject retreat from Afghanistan leaving the elcome to my monthly column “A view from country in the hands of a tribe that, to emphasise their humanity the top”. Hopefully you will find my rambling think that the hanging of already dead bodies is a good way to readable (maybe even enjoyable). You may agree show their citizens what sort of a country they are in the process of or you may disagree with my views, I care not. setting up, and finally followed by the rise in National Insurance These are my views long held and forged over a life time of despite his Government’s manifesto promise that taxes would not work, travel and experience. Now that’s over let’s have a look at be raised. Have I missed anything? The Prime Minister Boris de piffle Johnson strode up to the Dias what is really winding me up. watched by the invited audience and his assembled Cabinet, some Comedy Club... Manchester. of whom would later dance the night away to a rendition of "I had Thought I would watch the time of my life" by an enlivened Teresa Coffey, while the now the "King of the North" single and on the pull Michael Gove bopped and grooved on the Boris Johnson give his dance floor. The speech started slowly and without any real sense Conference Speech to of purpose, absolutely nothing of substance was said for the first the Conservative Party 20 minutes apart from some rambling nonsense about "Build back Conference. The first Beaver" and " Build back Burger". I suppose it was supposed to thing that the watcher be funny when in reality it was simply "Build back Bullshit" with would notice is that unlike lots of huffing and puffing... er.. ah.. oh. In truth it sounded like a all the other Government poor man’s Francis Howard, the difference was Frankie Howard ministers, He, Look at was funny. The clapping seals in the audience seemed to be unsure me Boris, had a special about how to respond to these 45 minutes of lies and nonsense. conference set built with a special Dias which was raised to enable NO substance, NO policy decisions, just a meaningless ramble his audience to see his every move. His every utterance could be about how bad other politicians and Governments had been, and heard via super surround sound and, as some after event newspaper this Dear Reader, from a man who had been part of the troop of front pages have shown, he could be photographed looking like rubbish politicians and Governments that had placed the UK into he had the light of God glowing from his being. So I watched in its current predicament. This from a man who went to the United anticipation, after a couple of terrible years for the UK as Covid States to bring back a trade deal and was told Britain was still at the had ravaged the nations therein, followed by the after effects of back of the queue. The same man then went to the United Nations Brexit, followed by a shortage of petrol on garage forecourts, and left them in a state of utter bewilderment as he rambled on (yes followed by supermarkets having supply chain issues leading to more rambling) about Kermit the Frog. Thankfully the speech, if empty shelves in some supermarkets, followed by issues with the that was what it was, lasted only 45 minutes. At the end de piffle, Northern Ireland protocol agreement that he, Boris had agreed to piffled off into the arms of his latest wife and was last seen heading and signed, followed by disputes with French fishermen and the for the airport so he could go on his fourth holiday in the past French government in respect of immigration, followed by the few months. Strangely for someone so keen on Brexit and getting away from the spell of Europe, he and Carrie Antionette turned up in Marbella at the Villa of his wealthy friend Zac Goldsmith, the failed politician who Boris elevated to that other Comedy club, The House of Lords. Jobs for the boys comes to mind. While Johnson is away his government ministers are arguing about who said what to who, pig farmers are in despair at having to kill good food pigs simply because, as a farmer stated "the government have had six months to organise a solution" and quite frankly have done absolutely nothing. Things simply go from bad to worse. I am off to visit family for 10 days or so and am still waiting for a decision on what sort of Day 2 test I need to organise, another decision that the government have not as yet announced despite the Transport Secretary saying 10 days ago, it would be announced in a couple of days. Another example of government inaction, perhaps he (Shapps) has joined the rest of the British Government on holiday. Keep well and safe Dear Readers, more when I return from the Land of Nod.
A View From The Top
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QFocus Magazine November 2021
Global Discount Furniture have been proudly selected to appear on a new UK TV Series which is due to air in January 2022 and filming at the store took place on Monday 27 September. The popular series follows the lives of expats and holidaymakers in and around the Costa Blanca as well as the businesses who cater for them. The programme focuses on people's day to day living and how life in the sun has changed their lives. Global Discount Furniture will feature in the whole series and promoted an official relaunch on the day of filming offering discounts on every line in the store. It was a great turnout with food and cava for all and over 20 free prizes were given away. Haley and the team gave themselves a target for the day and they smashed it! Haley has fantastic support and experience from her parents with dad Mark being in the trade for 40 years. After investigating the market trends and demand here on the Costa Blanca, Haley decided to start her own business a few years back and this has, and continues to go from strength to strength, with plans for expansion of a new store within the next year or so. They have recently embarked in manufacturing their own bespoke beds, headboards, sofas and Ottomans with a huge range of fabrics to choose from. This is a great achievement considering the hard times everyone has endured over the past couple of years but with Haley’s dedication, determination and hard work, anything can happen. Global Discount Furniture where The Sale Never Ends, pride themselves on keeping prices low and the quality high, offering free delivery and free assembly. New lines in all furniture are arriving weekly including storage beds, mattresses, sofas and tables all at budgets to suit everyone. See advert below for more details and contact information.
QFocus Magazine November 2021
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Macmillans Coffee Morning at Jolly's raises thousands! JOLLY'S BAR would like to say a massive thank you to all that turned up and showed their support for this great charity. Also to all the local businesses who donated prizes, everyone who sponsored or donated, it is truly humbling the support of such a wonderful community. Over the past few months there have been ongoing events leading up to the coffee morning itself from the girls Charity Mini golf Challenge, Jon's “Chop the Mop”, Steve's “Brave the Shave” and the latest Men's Charity Golf Day which collectively meant that this years target of 1,700€ was absolutely smashed with the final figure raised being a whopping 4,024.73€!!!!! One person who doesn't get enough praise is Sarah Devonport who works so hard every year to arrange this day/ weekend by speaking to local business, getting donations and hounding people for money, without her this would not happen. So moving into next year's target, Sarah realises her goal is now much higher and therefore plans to start raising funds a lot sooner than in the past by selling football cards or doing raffles. Whereas in the previous year's donations generally start being brought in around July, August and September, Sarah is requesting this to be an ongoing process so it is easily managed rather than the last minute rush. Names are already being collected for anyone wishing to partake in the 2022 challenge of a Charity Skydive. If this is something on your bucket list then add your name to the list at Jolly's Bar.
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CYCLING ON THE COSTA BLANCA GREENWAYS Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com
Cyclists love the Costa Blanca for its 320 days of sunshine, little rainfall and fabulous routes from flat coastal paths to winding mountainous trails. You can enjoy peaceful cycling routes along Spain’s Vía Verdes or greenways created from disused railway lines for walkers and cyclists. Across Spain around 3,200 kilometres of old railway lines have already been converted into about 130 sustainable greenways. All the greenways are identified by signposts and their distinctive logo. In the Alicante province, you'll find Vía Verdes in Denia, Alcoy, Ibi, Maigmó, Torrevieja, and Biar. Here are a couple of our favourite routes.
Vía Verde Dénia The last train ran between Dénia and Gandia in 1974 and now part of the line has been turned into a beautiful, flat Vía Verde. Starting by the Natura garden centre in Dénia, the route cuts through orange groves and farms with gorgeous views over the Montgó. Great times to go are early morning and towards dusk, especially
for bird watchers. The path is 6.5 kilometres long and ends in El Vergel, although you can continue along the cycle lane to Pego to visit the wetlands where Bomba rice is cultivated. If you don’t want to complete the route, you can take a right turn about halfway along and head for the beaches at Las Marinas, Dénia.
Vía Verde Torrevieja Further south is another stunning, flat route. This Vía Verde is on the old Albatera-Torrevieja railway line and runs alongside Torrevieja salt lakes, one of which is pink and the other is blue. The lakes are home to thousands of flamingos and other wildfowl. The starting point is at the old Torrevieja station which has been landscaped with trees, benches and a kiosk for refreshments. Make time to visit the museums here to discover the history of the salt industry in Torrevieja and the habaneras museum paying tribute to the songs and Torrevieja's most prolific habaneras songwriter Ricardo Lafuente Aguado.
Page 18 www.femalefocusonline.com Lyrical Mixed Voice Choir: COSTA BLANCA SOUTH They cordially invite you to join them for their socially distanced Christmas concert, `A Joyous Christmas´, the first in 2 years! Which will take place at Note from Benny: At last, we are into the full swing of the Church of Cristo Resucitado, Calle Talco, La Zenia on the 10th amateur entertainment. Glory Hallelujah for our charitable of December at 19.30. Tickets causes, our lovely people will be hoofing, singing, and available from Choir Members, La treading the boards through the coming months including Ponderosa, La Zenia, and The Card plans put on hold for over a year. And pantomime will be Place, Punta Prima. News flash! back – Oh yes it will! So, break a leg everyone! December 10th is virtually sold out, so they have now added a second concert on 12th December at 19.30. Queries to Trent Harris, (Chairman) 650 764 127. QFocus Magazine November 2021
Actors Community Theatre Society: If you haven’t already booked for the Christmas special version of their comedy reviews, do not delay, tickets are selling fast. Due to exceptional demand their `Christmas Cracker´ originally planned the 14th of December is being repeated on the 16th of December. As usual both performances will be shown at Lakeview Bar & Restaurant in Ciudad Quesada.
Rojales Pantomime Group: Rehearsals are well under way for the next amazing pantomime. `Treasure Island´ but their members always enjoy the social side and really enjoyed playing Crazy Golf at Greenlands followed by lunch. Leading Dame in the panto (Don) won a prize for a fantastic hole in one. New members are always welcome, contact douglasmcclone@yahoo.co.uk if you would love to join them and have some fun! Studio 32: Musical Theatre Company are only six weeks away from putting on their latest musical extravaganza, `South Pacific´. It has been a long time coming as it was intended to run the show in May 2020, however COVID shut everything down. The show will now run at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre, San Fulgencio from Wednesday 24th to Saturday 27th of November. Tickets are selling fast, so if you want to get back to watching live musical theatre, book your tickets now by calling Philip on 602 617 848 or email: tickets@studiothirtytwo.org.
If you would like to be part of this band of charitable entertainers, please email editor@femalefocusonline.com. Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Full details of all Stage Diary entertainment groups are available online at www.femalefocusonline.com
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Lakeview supporting Charities
QFocus Magazine November 2021
On 4 September Lakeview held an Aqua Aerobathon to raise funds for Cancer Research and would like to thank all those that took part. The final amount raised was a fantastic 400€. Following on from that, on the 17 September another 500€ was raised through the Vagina Monologue and the ACTS for ECCH and The Alzheimer’s Society. Now we are getting near to the festive period, Lakeview have turned their attention to helping Elche Children's Home and collecting much needed goods for the children. After talks with the home the most needed products for these teenagers are toiletries. Therefore Lakeview have devised a Reverse Advent Calendar, pictured alongside. A larger version can be downloaded and printed from their Facebook and Instagram pages @lakeviewbarrestaurant and also on the digital version of this issue at www.femalefocusonline.com. Alternatively there will be printed copies you can collect from Lakeview, where your kind donations will be thankfully received. Whether you would like to just select a few days of the calendar to purchase or the complete calendar, it will all be gratefully appreciated. ● Lakeview Bar & Restaurant. C/ Toledo 16, Ciudad Quesada Tel. 722 891 977 Email: lakeviewbarrestaurant@gmail.com Facebook/Instagram: lakeviewbarrestaurant
QFocus Magazine November 2021
www.femalefocusonline.com Page 20 Near Cape Fisterra, in 1596, eight years after the Spanish Armada disaster and after several seasons of British looting on the Spanish coast, Felipe II ordered a Second Armada to sail. From Cadiz, Seville, and Lisbon, some 100 galleons sailed north. Along the coast of Fisterra, they suddenly found themselves in the middle of IT IS 6.00 PM, HERE IS THE BBC NEWS…. IT IS 6.10 PM, a raging storm causing the wreck of 25 vessels. Another disaster! 1706 crew members drowned in cold wild waters. HERE IS THE SHIPPING FORECAST.
CAPE FINISTERRA at world’s end
Viking, North Utsire, South Utsire, Forties, Cromarty, Forth, Tyne, Dogger, Fisher, German Bight, Humber, Thames, Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth, Sole, Lundy, Fastnet, Irish Sea, Shannon, Rockall, Malin, Hebrides, Bailey, Fair Isle, Faeroes, Southeast Iceland. NOW HERE IS THE SPANISH FORECAST FOR Biscay, Fitzroy (Fisterra) and Trafalgar. High wind, occasional gales, rain, and fog. The Coast of Death is normally a wild sea battering against high cliffs giving a feeling there is nothing between this remote corner of Europe and the New World but an enormous mass of water. Arriving in the town of Fisterra first go to the harbour. On some summer days the unusual can happen. Fishing boats come and go on a sea so calm that it is difficult to believe this is the untamed Costa da Morte (Coast of Death). Meander in a labyrinth of streets in this fishing village, pop into one of the many bars, listen to old seadogs telling their tales, enjoy a plateful of razor clams or any variety of local seafood.
Spot the 12 differences (answers in the classified pages)
A must for all who visit Cape Fisterra is its extraordinary lighthouse sitting at the westernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula on the coast of Galicia. Built in 1853 it is known world-wide for its importance in navigating around this Coast of Death. The octagonal tower, made of stone, measures 17 metres and its light, perched 138 meters above sea level, reaches 30 nautical miles. Filament lamps emit a flash every five seconds. ‘The cow of Fisterra’ is a foghorn. On days when the coast is covered in fog, it emits a low-pitched sound which can be heard for more than 25 kilometres. The Fisterre lighthouse is considered one of the most emblematic places in all of Galicia. An emotionally charged experience can be achieved by watching at the sun going down at World’s End, at a viewpoint close to the lighthouse. Even better is an evening cruise where the captain positions his boat 100 metres from the rocky shore underneath the lighthouse. As the sun slowly sets, with a black silhouette of ship, cliffs, rocks and people’s profile; grown men can cry. Cape Finisterra, Galicia. Map reference 42 5247 N, 9 1621 W. This article is an extract from ‘OUT OF SIGHT SPAIN, top 150 cool places to visit.’ by local author Harry King. 216 pages. 140 colour photos. Best value source: Book Depository.com Waterstones.com Amazon Kindle Store.
Spot the odd one out
A
B
C
D
E
F
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SU DO KU
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 r o w, e v e r y c o l u m n a n d e v e r y 3 x 3 grid contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repeats, which means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.
Answers to puzzles at the back of the magazine
QFocus Magazine November 2021
QF���� Maga���e N��e��e� 2021
AS SEEN ON TV
Page 22
Victoria Sandwich Cake
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Named after Queen Victoria the Victoria Sandwich cake is one of UK’s popular treats. A classic sponge cake usually has strawberry jam with a butter filling or fresh whipped cream in the middle. The butter cream and sponge can be flavoured but we have kept it simple with a drop of vanilla essence.
Ingredients 170g caster sugar 170g butter, softened 4 large eggs 170g self-raising flour, sieved 1 tsp baking powder For the filling: 100g butter, softened 140g icing sugar, sifted 170g strawberry jam 1 teaspoon vanilla essence Fresh strawberries halved to decorate the top TIME Prep 40 minutes, Cook 2530 minutes, plus time for cooling
Recipe Preheat the oven to 180˚C/fan 160˚C/ gas mark 4. Grease and line two 20cm sandwich cake tins with baking parchment. In a large bowl, cream the sugar and butter together until light and fluffy. Whisk the eggs and gradually add to the mixture bit by bit; beat well after each addition. Gently fold the flour and the baking powder into the mixture, and then divide equally between the two cake tins. Bake for 25 minutes in the middle of the oven until golden in colour and it springs back when pressed. Remove from the oven; allow to cool for five minutes before turning out onto a cooling rack to cool completely. MAKE THE BUTTER CREAM In a bowl beat the butter until smooth and creamy, gradually add, and beat in the icing sugar. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Beat the sugar and butter until smooth – if the icing is too stiff, add a 1-2 tablespoons of boiling water. Spread the jam over the bottom of one cake. Use half of the butter cream and spread it over the bottom of the other cake. Gently sandwich the two cakes together. Spread the remaining butter cream on top of the cake and decorate with the fruit.
Missing your curry fix? Since BREXIT, we have not managed to get our kits into Spain and into the shops. Currently we are dispatching from the UK to Europe; Please email your order to keepcalm@curryoncooking.com with the delivery address, we’ll work out the cost of goods and postage for you.
all the Spanish words from the word list in the puzzle grid. Words may be found TIEMPO Find going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally. Answers can be found in the classified
TIME section at the back of the magazine. Good Luck.
AHORA - NOW ANOCHE - LAST NIGHT ANTERIORMENTE PREVIOUSLY ANTES - BEFORE AÚN - YET / STILL AYER - YESTERDAY DESPUÉS - AFTER / LATER HOY - TODAY JAMÁS - NEVER LUEGO - LATER MAÑANA - TOMORROW / MORNING MIENTRAS - WHILE NUNCA - NEVER PRONTO - SOON PRÓXIMAMENTE - COMING SOON RECIENTEMENTE - RECENTLY SIEMPRE - ALWAYS TARDE - LATE / AFTERNOON TEMPRANO - EARLY TODAVÍA - STILL FUTURO - FUTURE PASADO - PAST PRESENTE - PRESENT
Answers in the classified pages
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Now’s the time to sell your property
Estate agents across the Costa Blanca are drawing up waiting lists of clients looking to buy property. So many people are willing to invest in either a permanent home or holiday home, agents are running out of suitable properties. Despite the pandemic and Brexit, the Costa Blanca remains a very attractive proposition both for the domestic market - people living in the cities of Madrid and Valencia invest in holiday homes here - and overseas, particularly people from North Europe, Scandinavia and Russia. For many people, the reasons for wanting to move to the Costa Blanca are the same as always: ● 320 days of sunshine each year and low rainfall ● Gorgeous coastline from picturesque bays to family-friendly sandy beaches ● Fabulous choice of resorts to live in from coastal towns to inland villages amid the mountains ● Superb choice of properties from modern Ibiza-style villas to traditional Spanish townhouses ● Better quality of life and lower cost of living than many northern and western European countries However, demand is growing because many people are looking for a bolthole out of the cities. During the pandemic when families were cooped up indoors, they realised how much they needed outside space, such as a large terrace or garden. These are high on the wishlist when they are seeking properties on the Costa Blanca. If you are thinking of selling your property on the Costa Blanca, please get in touch with one or more of the trusted estate agents advertising in this edition. It is very likely they already have people lined up who are willing to buy a property like yours. Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com
QFocus Magazine November 2021
QFocus Magazine November 2021
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RECIPES by Pushpa from the Spice Hut
Fresh Mushrooms flavoured with ground coriander and fenugreek seeds. Ingredients: 200g fresh mushrooms cut in half 1 green pepper diced into 1 inch cubes 2 onions finely chopped & 2 tomatoes chopped 2 tspn garlic paste & 2 tspn ginger paste 2 green chillies finely chopped ½ tspn dry chilli powder & 1 tbspn coriander seeds crushed ½ tspn fenugreek seeds dry roasted and crushed Salt as required ½ tspn garam masala & ½ tspn coriander powder 4 tbsn oil Method: - Wash the mushrooms and cut in half if not already prepared. - Heat the oil and add the mushrooms, cook on a medium heat until cooked. Remove the mushrooms from the oil and put aside. - To the oil add the toasted and crushed coriander and fenugreek seeds and sizzle until golden, add the chillies and the chopped onions and stir until light brown. - Add ginger and garlic paste, cook for further few minutes. - Add the tomatoes, green pepper, salt and garam masala. Mix it all well, add the cooked mushrooms and toss it well. - Garnish with fresh coriander, coriander powder and chilli powder. Serve with a salad. ●
The Spice Hut Quesada. Tel. 966 731 063 or visit www.spicehutspain.com.
Valor chocolates made on the Costa Blanca Whilst they're stockpiling tins of Quality Street in the UK, we have a far tastier choccie alternative produced right here on the Costa Blanca - Valor. Valor chocolate has been produced on the Costa Blanca for more than 140 years. Its history dates back to 1881 when Valeriano López Lloret founded the artisanal chocolate production to run alongside the family farm. Word soon spread about how delicious the chocolates were and business boomed. The family bought the factory in Villajoyosa in 1964 to keep up with demand. Today the distinctive green colour of Valor can be seen in many countries worldwide including many European countries, the USA, Argentina and Japan as well as online. In the Alicante region, Valor shops and cafes can be found in Dénia, Altea, Villajoyosa, Benidorm, Alicante, Santa Pola and Torrevieja. The cafes have a range of products including thick hot chocolate with churros and that firm favourite with Alicantinians (and Female Focus!) blanco y negro - iced coffee with ice-cream. Valor’s appeal can be summed up in one word: quality. Valor uses the finest cocoa beans from around the world to produce the best chocolate. In the UK, chocolate must have at least 20% cocoa solids while in the US it can be as low as 10%. Valor chocolates have at least 35% cocoa solids to give a rich, luxurious flavour. Not only is it delicious, but a little of what you fancy does you good too. How is chocolate - in moderation - good for you? ● The higher the cocoa content the better. Cocoa beans are packed with healthy flavonoids, which are rich in antioxidant activity and help ward off toxins. Dark chocolate has more flavonoids than milk or white chocolate. ● Drinking two cups of hot chocolate a day may help to keep the brain healthy and prevent memory decline, according to a study by Harvard Medical School scientists. ● Chocolate can reduce the risk of heart disease, according to a study by the British Medical Journal ● Canadian scientists showed people who eat chocolate were up to 22% less likely to have a stroke. Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com
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our ARIES Now is the time to start planting seeds in order to move forward knowing that they will be established in the future, just when you need them to be. Don't leave people behind who are important to you, spend time to bring them along with you, even if it is at a slower pace than you would like. TAURUS If you are a calm natured bull, you may be feeling left behind when others appear to be having so much fun. Just turning things up a notch will bring you the excitement you are looking for - be careful though not to go too far. GEMINI With the power struggles going on around you, it is time to focus on the quality of your daily life. Making changes now will put you in a good place when challenges come your way. CANCER Take responsibility of yourself, be more disciplined and more loving to yourself, and stop looking for others to be responsible for your well being. You have abandoned your own needs for long enough. LEO Concentrating on a solo project, maybe within your own home, will give you time for reflection. Friction in the family needs to be smoothed over and with this time for thought you will find a solution where everyone can move forward without losing face. VIRGO By concentrating on the little things you are missing the beauty of everyday. Enjoy the sunrise, live more for the moment and let the past be a lesson and not a burden to carry round with you any longer.
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oroscope LIBRA You are reaping the rewards of all the hard work and planning as everything is falling into place. Others want to share in your success, but make sure they are doing it for the right reasons before you bring them into the team. SCORPIO Focusing on your passion is the most important thing right now. You have had enough distractions and excuses, and now you just need to get on with it. Ask people to give you the space and support you need and they will understand your actions. SAGITTARIUS Needing to ask for help is not a sign of weakness but one of great strength. With so much on your plate between now and the end of the year, take all the support you can. CAPRICORN Make sure everyone is pulling their weight and not leaving it all to the rest. Some subtle boundary setting and delegation will make sure everyone knows what is expected from them. AQUARIUS Your individuality can sometimes cause conflict, but can also bring some original ideas to the table. Keep these ideas flowing, not all will be taken on board but that should not stop you from sharing them. PISCES You feel you are really coming into your own, discovering so much more about yourself now you are not so judgemental. Although this has meant, and means leaving some things and people behind, you need to move forward and embrace new experiences and friends.
F.A.B
(Friends after Bereavement) We are a relaxed and friendly mixed group who meet once a week at the Laguna Hotel in Quesada at 3pm for a chat and coffee. The aim of the group is to support those who have lost someone close and help make new friends. We also enjoy meals / lunches out and day trips etc. For more information call Joan on 634 336 103 or Steve on 623 220 052 or just come along for a chat one Saturday.
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Are There Any Real Benefits of Having Pets?
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Did you know that there is a powerful bond between animals and humans? One of the more beautiful and unifying aspects of humanity is witnessing the extraordinary lengths some animal lovers will go to for their animal companions. Non animal lovers may not get it at all... yet. Many people have learned the benefits of having pets. And a pet of any kind, whether it’s a cat, dog, horse, lizard, or bird who feels loved and secure, will bring great joy to their human. While some pet owners go to extravagant lengths for their fur babies - throwing them elaborate weddings or birthday parties or dressing them up in awesome costumes - even the simple act of acknowledging their loyalty and love for you is a gift that will reap a lifetime of rewards. Health benefits of having pets We’ve all heard clichés like, “Dogs are man’s best friend.” But have you wondered why? Dogs are loyal to a fault. Animals find joy in the simplest, smallest things. They have no need for excuses or pretense, they are only ever being themselves. They go to sleep unencumbered by daily worries and wake up every morning with a clean slate, ready to take on the world with fresh eyes and spirits. Their buoyancy, resilience, devotion, determination, and optimism are infectious. Yet, many animals also have an innate sense when someone is in need of support. They don’t always take on the worry... they simply reach out to comfort a person in pain. Not every dog, cat, or horse will be a therapy animal who trains for care in a hospital, as a service animal or companion during times of crisis... But you should know that your pet is picking up signals from you at all times. Your horse will sense the tension in you and try to make sense of it, then decide how to help you with that. Your dog will follow you around the house when they read negative energy trying to figure out what’s wrong and how to help you. Your cat might be circling your home office chair, pouncing on your computer, intent on distracting you... but really, they’re probably telling you it’s time to change your focus. Often they’ll notice that your breathing has become shallow, your circulation is weakening, and your energy is faltering... it worries them. Time to take a break! Time spent caring for a pet releases serotonin and dopamine, two hormones that trigger a pleasure response. You might think they’re being a pest - especially when you’re feeling agitated. Stop and receive the gift of their love for what it is, and have a conversation with them about what’s bothering you. You’ll feel better for it. Take the time to learn how they communicate with you. They have insights to share if you’re willing to listen and learn. You’re invited to come and meet the Easy Horse Care Centre rescued horses, ponies and donkeys Call 652 021 980 or email rescue@easyhorsecare.net. For more information visit our website http://www.easyhorsecare.net Cookie lived in a home with other dogs and children, and came to the shelter following a family break up. She loves walks and being made a fuss of. Would like a home with a garden and lots of exercise. Call the K9 shelter on 711 075 305 or k9clubinfo@gmail.com
AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS For families and friends of problem drinkers. There are meetings in Torrevieja. Phone 634 349 961.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
Lulu is around 8 weeks old and in need of a new home. She is good with other cats, dogs and children. Call: 645 469 253, visit www.petsinspain.com or email info@petsinspain.com
CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS Across: 1 Sceptre, 5 Swede, 9 Motorize, 10 Else, 11 True, 12 Artery, 13 Comet, 15 Mat, 16 Abe, 17 Ionic, 18 Manual, 20 Claw, 23 Turf, 24 Overseer, 25 Pests, 26 Cheddar. Down: 2 Choir, 3 Protect, 4 Rain, 6 Wheat, 7 Deserve, 8 Megaton, 14 Mailbox, 15 Measure, 16 Accused, 19 Unfit, 21 ANSWER TO SPOT THE ODD ONE OUT: D Arena, 22 Mesh.
Easy
Medium
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QFocus Magazine November 2021
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The Aircrew Association Costa Blanca celebrates the 80th anniversary of the formation of a key branch of the RAF The Air Engineer Branch
Life Vice President Peter Langley DFC, Chairman Max Maxwell MBE and fellow Members of the Aircrew Association Costa Blanca celebrated the 80th Anniversary of the formation of the Engineer Branch of the RAF on Wednesday, 13th October with a lunch at the El Gaucho Restaurant in Jávea. The Association’s Celebration was privileged to be attended by the two surviving former Air Engineer Branch Members of the Association, John Othen (left of picture) and Peter Johnson (right of picture). During the lunch and after a highly appropriate grace, written for the occasion and given by Peter Langley, John Othen gave an illuminating and much appreciated talk on the history of the Air Engineer Branch. Later, following a popular raffle, including as prises, two Anniversary mementos donated by John Othen: an 80th Anniversary Mug and an 80th Anniversary tea towel showing all of the RAF aircraft that included Air Engineers in their crews, Peter Johnson proposed the toast to the Air Engineer Branch. Peter Langley then closed the celebration with the Aircrew Toast, To Absent Friends and Fellow Aircrew. Another memorable and significant occasion in the Aircrew Association’s diary, following soon after the Association’s Commemoration of the Battle of Britain in September. If any reader wishes to know more about the Aircrew Association Costa Blanca, please call: 966 495 228. RELEASE HARMFUL EMOTIONAL BAGGAGE AND RESTORE BALANCE! Emotion Code Workshop: The Club Quesada Weds 17 Nov. Free entry. 10.30am - 12.30pm. Booking essential. Email lynda@expatmentors.com Tel: 647 356 945
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