QFocus On Costa Blanca South September 2023

La

Zenia resident thanks optician for saving sight

Gillian Barrett was experiencing slightly blurred vision in one eye and thought she needed new glasses, with a stronger prescription. But during her visit to Specsavers Ópticas in La Zenia, an eye test revealed signs of an artery occlusion, glaucoma and early-stage cataracts.

All three conditions can lead to permanent sight loss and therefore she was urgently referred for diagnosis and treatment. Thankfully these conditions were caught early and she is now taking medication, her eyes are healthy and her vision is good.

Gillian comments, ‘If it hadn’t been for Specsavers in La Zenia I could have lost my sight. I have a family history of glaucoma, and my mother lost the vision in one eye due to the disease. So, when I started to experience slight blurring in one eye, I thought it was best to have an eye test. During the test, they discovered a blocked artery behind my eye and gave me an urgent referral for treatment before it caused permanent vision loss.’

Optometrist Jade Rose adds, ‘We’re so pleased that Gillian paid attention to her blurred vision and came in for an eye test, as it revealed issues that required urgent treatment.

‘During our comprehensive eye tests, we always take a photo of the retina (retinography). In the photo of Gillian’s retina, we found an artery occlusion and immediately referred her for specialist help. Blockages like this can be very serious, often causing loss of eyesight, but also increasing risk of stroke if the clot moves to the brain.’

Gillian is now receiving monthly injections in her left eye for the blocked artery and daily eye drops for the glaucoma. As long as she continues with the treatment her eyesight should not deteriorate. The team at Specsavers Ópticas in La Zenia are also monitoring her intra-ocular pressure and cataracts during yearly eye tests, to ensure that the conditions remain under control.

Gillian adds, ‘I would urge everyone to have regular eye tests to make sure their sight is not at risk. I would also like to thank the team at Specsavers Ópticas La Zenia for their detailed health checks and taking swift action so I could get the treatment I needed.’

Eye tests are free at Specsavers Ópticas and include a range of health checks as standard. Visit www.specsavers.es to find your nearest store and book a free eye test.

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

August has been a hectic month full of activities, visitors, and birthdays. Although not all events went according to plan, due to reasons beyond our control, the ones that did were a blast. I am now secretly looking forward to getting back to some sort of normality and routine. It has also been a melancholy time with the passing of our dear family friend Peter Avery. Pete (the plumber) was a well-known, well-respected gentleman in the local area and he will be sorely missed by all those who knew and loved him. Our thoughts are with all his family, may he rest in peace.

My not-so-little angel (now 18!!!!!) passed her theory driving test at the beginning of August, so September will see her getting behind the wheel to start her practical lessons. She has become a very determined young lady and vows to be passed before the end of the year…time will tell.

Hopefully now the soaring temperatures will start to cool a little making life more comfortable, and sleep coming easier to us. Although if last September is anything to go by maybe not? Until the next time.....

QFocus Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055

Pick up your next issue on 4 October Deadline for advertising & editorial - 18 Sept

F.A.B. (Friends after Bereavement)

We are a relaxed and friendly mixed group who meet once a week in the lounge/bar of 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 Heather 661 116 869 or just come along for a chat one Saturday.

Michelle

QFocus Magazine covering the Alicante South region and Focus On Magazine covering the Alicante North region.

35 YEARS SERVICE TO EXPATRIATE CLIENTS

I am María del Mar Marcos Parres and I run Almar Insurance Brokerage, an acronym of the names of our children Álvaro and Marta.

We would like to take this opportunity to introduce ourselves to new clients.

We started our activity in 1988 and since then we have been serving our Spanish and foreign clients with the professionalism and dedication they deserve.

We are an insurance brokerage and we work with more than 15 insurance companies of the highest level. We highlight Zurich, Reale, Plus Ultra with specific products for expatriates and with an entry bonus of more than 60%, obtaining very interesting policies for guarantees and prices. We can talk about your car insurance for 210€ and home insurance for 120€ (subject to conditions). In our office you can take out insurance for your car, home, health, civil liability and pets.

We are specialists in health insurance, helping you to contract the type of policy that best suits your needs, with significant discounts and payment facilities.

Our professional team is made up of Joaquin, Alvaro and Melani and other collaborators with whom we cover languages such as English, French, German, Russian, Ukrainian, Dutch and Spanish. We also offer consulting services for the opening of bank accounts, resident and non-resident taxes, procedures with town halls, ITV service for your car, etc.

We are waiting for you in Avenida Vega Baja 22, Rojales and Avenida Nenúfares Torrevieja, and we will be pleased to help you. See our advert below for more contact details.

THE MOVERS AND SHAKERS NEED YOUR HELP

The Association of Movers and Shakers is a registered charity offering friendship and support to people who suffer from Ataxia, Huntington’s Disease, Motor Neurone Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease - our Members.

The number of Members befriended by the Association is increasing!

All our work is undertaken by volunteers and we are now looking for a volunteer to assist our Liaison Officer as the first point of contact to sufferers or carers getting in touch with us.

We would like to hear from you if:

- you can speak both English and Spanish,

- have experience in caring – either as a carer for a friend or a family member or professionally,

- you are able maintain an empathic approach to people and their families affected by one of the diseases mentioned above,

- you are willing to learn and to work within the Aims and Objectives of the Association.

If you are interested, you are welcome to contact our President Marion Smith on (+34) 711 008 250 or by email at marion.smith@amscb.org.es. All enquiries will be treated in strict confidence. For further information about The Association, visit our website at: www.amscb.org,es.

The photo shows Member, Kathleen Kerr in her new wheelchair, recently funded by the Association of Movers and Shakers.

8 Compelling Reasons for Architectural Property Analysis - Even if your property is Not Falling Apart

article supplied by Martinez de la Casa Architects

Just as we prioritise our health with regular doctor check-ups, our homes also merit similar consideration. Your property is more than mere bricks and mortar; it's a living space deserving care. Like our bodies, homes can harbour hidden issues requiring timely attention. This is where a structural survey from Martinez de la Casa Architects comes in – a health check for your abode.

Early Intervention: Preventing Drama - Picture a structural survey as proactive care, akin to your annual health check-up. Just as doctors can spot potential health concerns, our skilled architects identify underlying structural problems hidden from the untrained eye. Addressing these promptly avoids small issues spiralling into major woes.

Uncovering the Unseen: Similar to thorough medical examinations, our architects delve beneath your property's surface to expose concealed defects. Cracks, moisture buildup, and structural quirks may lurk, silently eroding your property. Our surveyors, equipped with metaphorical magnifying glasses, ensure well-being goes beyond surface appearances.

Tranquil Foundations: A health check-up grants peace of mind, knowing professionals have assessed your well-being. Similarly, a structural survey instils confidence in your property's examination by experts. Whether buying, selling, or maintaining, this assurance is invaluable.

Informed Choices: Much like doctors advise lifestyle adjustments based on health check results, our architects recommend actions based on survey findings. Be it minor repairs, upgrades, or future planning, a clear road map empowers informed decisions about property upkeep and investments.

Safeguarding Value: Just as healthy living extends life, regular property assessments preserve value. Addressing issues early saves your property's worth. Additionally, a comprehensive structural survey report enhances marketability if you decide to sell.

Elevating Property Worth When selling, a professionally conducted structural survey enhances a property's allure to potential buyers. A thorough report reflects your commitment to transparency, reassuring buyers about the property's solidity. This transparency often leads to swifter sales and possibly higher offers.

Expertise Beyond Flaws: Licensing and Documentation Guidance. At Martinez de la Casa Architects, we go beyond structural issues. Property transactions' complexities are understood. Our architects offer insights on licenses, permits, and necessary documentation for selling. Legal doubts or paperwork clarity, even building projects or repairs, are areas where we provide answers.

A Prerequisite for Property Purchase For property buyers, a structural survey is essential. Even seemingly flawless properties can conceal issues with significant investment impact. Skipping inspection is like avoiding a health check-up – a shortcut with long-term consequences.

Contacting Martinez de la Casa Architects today is pivotal whether you sell, maintain, or buy property. Prioritising your property's structural health is as important as your personal well-being. Our site survey and onsite information delivery cost a mere 121€ IVA Inc. Our Structural Reports are fortified with insurance coverage and delivered within 10 working days. Behind this seemingly modest price lies invaluable potential savings. Contact us, and we'll arrange an appointment your property won't want to miss.

Martinez de la Casa Architects leads the way in Building Certification in Spain. Cost-wise, a Pool Retrospective Licence (Certificate of Antiquity) is 220€+IVA (266,20€ IVA incl), and Extensions cost 290€+IVA (350,90€ IVA incl, covering all extensions on the property). Beyond retrospective licenses, we offer Energy Performance Certificates (121€ IVA incl) and Habitation/Occupation Licences, providing comprehensive solutions for property owners.

To clarify uncertainties or embark on the easy path to retrospective compliance, call 665 810 411 (English) or explore our wealth of over 300 clients' testimonials at www.martinezdelacasa.com. Your property's value and legal standing deserve the utmost care.

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.

Suitable for Restaurants, Outdoor Venues & Private Parties

Call JJ.Jones - 684416833 neildiamondtribute1@gmail.com

HELLO AGAIN

J J. Jones has been portraying Neil Diamond for the past 30+ years taking him as far away to Australia for 5 years touring, and 3 years in UK theatres with his 7 piece band, but for the last 13 years as one of the top acts in Benidorm. The time has come to now perform his show outside of Benidorm and to perform in various venues in the Southern Costa Blanca and beyond.

The show comes complete with full P.A. and state of the art lighting system. The show consists of a 1 hour first set which consists of the most popular ballads Neil Diamond has performed from the film the Jazz Singer including Love On The Rocks, Hello Again, and Songs of Life. The second set is 50 minutes of audience participation with songs Forever In Blue Jeans, Crackling Rosie, America, and of course everyone's favourite Sweet Caroline. The show is suitable for restaurants, outdoor venues and private parties. To book this show please contact Lin or JJ at neildiamondtribute1@gmail.com, or visit www.facebook.com/neildiamondtributebenidormJjJones or telephone 684 416 833.

GARDENING HINTS & TIPS from the Vega Baja Gardening Club

Last month I mentioned how useful Aloe Vera is, and how easy it is to propagate to make gifts for your non gardening friends, so I'll tell you about two very easy methods to try for yourself.

Cuts and pups, these are the two different ways to get more plants from your original. You'll need some small pots, a large pot, a sharp knife and some compost, ideally succulent compost. Firstly I'll deal with the pups, these are the little offshoots that hopefully you'll find around the base of the parent plant. You want one that is a reasonable size and has several leaves. Using your sharp, clean knife gently separate the pup from the parent and ease it away, trying not to damage any roots, and lift the pup away. After letting it dry out for a few days, put your compost in a pot, moisten it and give the little blighter a nice new home. Don't over water, every 5 to 10 days is fine. That was easy wasn't it?

Now for some cuttings, cut away a healthy leaf from the parent plant, with a straight cut near the base. Next, cut across the leaf making 3 or 4 pieces, each should have a growth node on it. A growth node? That's what those knobbly bits on the side are called but you can call them the spiky bits if you want. Let the pieces dry out for a few days so they won't rot. Using your large pot, fill it with compost, make some dents in the surface and gently stick in your cuttings. Wait a few days before watering, and always let the compost dry out before watering again. Before too long, they will root and thrive, once they are happily established, you can pot them on into the small pots and share with your friends. There, that was an easy bit of proper propagating, for perfect presents!

Andrea Oates. Email: vegabajagardenclub@gmail.com

Spot

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

ACTS: Despite the heat ACTS are enthusiastically rehearsing their next Autumn production called Play On, an amazing comedy... One to watch!

Showing at Benijofar Cultural Centre 9th to 11th November. With a strong cast fully in place we now need volunteers to help backstage and other aspects of the production. Amateur dramatics is about TEAM. If you would like to be part of this proactive group please contact Sheila at sheilacowley101@gmail.com,

The Costa Blanca Singers are delighted to celebrate their one-year anniversary this month. Since the start, member numbers have continued to increase as their popularity grows and word of mouth spreads. You are invited to share the friendship and fun with them. Come along to an open rehearsal on any Wednesday. Arrive before 2pm at The Social Centre La Marina urbanizacion. Worry not about your singing ability. The Costa Blanca Singers will guide you towards realising your personal best. Believe in yourself and enjoy the laughter and company. Simply come along or visit www.costablancasingers.org or call/ WhatsApp 641 992 164.

Andante International Choir is the only choir in the Costa Blanca community devoted to sacred choral works and classical pieces. They meet in Los Montesinos at Calle San Antonio 4, on Thursday nights from 7.15pm until 9pm. All are welcome to join them. They especially need tenors and basses. For more information contact Andante International Choir member Sue Lewey at suelewey@gmail.com. Also see the Facebook page, Andante International Choir (Spain).

Rojales Pantomime Group: Members of the Rojales Pantomime Group have had some great summer social events, however, it is back to work for the Cast & Crew when rehearsals recommence in September. They can't wait as they want to ensure that their next pantomime, Snow White & The Seven Christmas Elves, is as much fun for the audience to watch as it is for them to perform. They have a full cast but still need help backstage and front of house at their performances. Would you like to help? If so, please email rojalespanto@yahoo.com for further details.

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

3 months to Xmas programme starts now!

My start weight: 84.7Kg

End weight : 60.7Kg

Total loss: 52.8 pounds

I decided to lose weight due to health reasons. I suffer from hypertension and also fractured two vertebrae in my back some years ago. Both of these are not good for my health. My BMI was in the obese zone and I generally felt lethargic, no energy with low self esteem. I had gradually been gaining weight but I think lockdown and covid tipped my weight to the gravest I’d been. I needed to lose weight and needed a plan that would give results and was easy to follow.

I chose Slim4Life due to a friend that was participating in the program and I was so impressed with the weight she had lost and how easy she found the plan to follow. I also liked that you had a life coach to help, advise and support you through your journey.

I followed the Total Solution plan

I must say I liked all of the Slim4Life products. The shakes, breakfasts, main meals and the protein bars all were very tasty and nutritious. They were so easy to prepare. There was no thinking "what am I going to eat today" I knew exactly how to plan my day.

I learned the value of the food I was putting in my mouth and how many carbohydrates I could or couldn’t have in my diet. For me carbohydrates are the problem to my gaining weight. I don’t eat meat of any type and so carbs were the main ingredient of my daily eating.

Free as Birds Social Group

A poignant incident at a busy restaurant prompted La Siesta resident Michael Walsh to create a social group offering shared lunches and get-togethers for the unattached.

“Whilst dining in Quesada I spotted a gentleman sitting wistfully on his own. Pausing to say hello, I learnt that his wife had passed away a year earlier; he had no family to speak of.”

As a consequence of covid and cancer, other ailments and age, it is presumed that many people lack companionship. What to do?

Michael says: “I would like Free as Birds to arrange informal lunches or dinners; an opportunity for the unattached to meet up, form new friendships; lift the spirits and give purpose to life.”

‘A stranger’s just a friend you’ve yet to meet’, Free as Birds focuses on towns and urbanisations like Los Montesinos, Quesada, and La Siesta – anywhere within 10 km of Torrevieja. Michael can be contacted at 662 067 490 or by email at keyboardcosmetics@gmail.com

A CHANCE TO SING WITH SPANGLES THIS CHRISTMAS!

Do you love Christmas? Want to be a part of the Christmas festivities this year? Look no further: Spangles Ladies’ Harmony Chorus is offering women the chance to sing with them this Christmas. “We had such a lot of fun doing this in 2022 with The Grinch, that we decided to open it up again this year with a fabulous new song: The Man With the Bag” said Chorus Manager, Lyn Baines. “We recently launched the offer on social media and we’re already receiving requests to sign up.”

So, what do you need to do to join in the Christmas performances? After a simple voice test to check which part you’re best suited to, you will be given teach tracks and music to start learning your part. You will join in chorus rehearsals each week to work on the song with the rest of the chorus, with your section leader by your

The plan was perfect for me as I am quite lazy when it comes to meal planning. I would eat the easiest thing I could throw together. Instead of a proper meal I would have a coffee and a biscuit or sandwich and become hungry again about an hour afterwards. This plan was perfect for me as I knew everyday I would have a breakfast from my Slim4Life selection, a shake of my chosen flavour and a main meal from a wide selection and have a salad or vegetables from a list that I could choose from. I have gradually increased my protein and vegetables along with fruit as I lost weight. Aiming to maintain a healthy BMI and balanced weight. What kept me motivated was achieving the goal that we set together at the start of my journey. I so looked forward to being a healthy, happier person and was determined to achieve it. I did this only with the support of Slim4Life life coaches and all the support from fellow participants on the plan. It really is a team effort with everyone giving encouragement that you can achieve your goals.

I’ve only walked my dog for exercise and trying where possible to do as many steps as possible. We’ve recently moved house and I think this helped as a lot of opening and moving boxes and furniture played a part and kept me active.

Losing weight has increased my wellbeing and confidence. My back injury gives me less problems and my blood pressure has improved. I genuinely feel so much better in myself and of course I can go shopping for new clothes!

My next goal is to maintain my weight loss and not go back to the old me before starting on the Slim4Life plan.

I would certainly recommend Slim4Life to a friend.

side, every step of the way. There’s no cost involved and every member will be supporting you throughout the process. If you like the experience, you could become a full-time chorus member. To sign up, just send an email to info@spangleschorus.com or check their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SpanglesChorus – what have you got to lose?

Spangles rehearse every Thursday, from 10.30am to 1pm at Centro Municipal Las Claras, Calle Helena, Los Narejos, Los Alcázares and you are certainly welcome to visit – no appointment necessary!

If you’d like to book the chorus for an event or you are thinking about joining them, you can find out more on their website: www.spangleschorus.com or email info@spangleschorus.com

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

LADRÓN - THIEF

MULTA - FINE

TESTIGO - WITNESS

See back pages for answers

SUDOKU

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

Celebrating World Paella Day

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

Cantina in Rojales has opened its doors after a long absence. Now under the management of business partners Pedro Silva and Lesya Pyl everyone can be assured of a warm welcome.

The Cantina offers a large selection of freshly prepared traditional Spanish tapas in addition to a very tempting Menu del Dia. They have an extensive drinks menu and Pedro produces some very tempting cocktails at incredibly reasonable prices, so no need to stop at just the one.

Pedro takes charge of the front of house and with 20 years' experience in hospitality the service is excellent. Pedro worked on the island of Fuerteventura for many years before moving to Alicante with the intention of opening his own restaurant. He is no stranger to this area as he was instrumental in setting up another very successful restaurant in this area some years ago. Having grown up in Portugal in a family who own vineyards and produce their own wine and port, he is extremely knowledgeable and happy to offer advice on your choice of wine. Nothing is too much trouble for this friendly and enthusiastic host. Lesya is in charge of the kitchen and responsible for all the delicious food on the menu. Each day she produces a verity of mouth watering delicious, authentic Spanish tapas. Lesya, who was born in Ukraine, moved to Spain in 2001 and began her journey washing dishes in a local restaurant before moving her way up in the industry to become the head chef, since then she has worked in a number of top restaurants in the area and is now the proud owner of Cantina along with Pedro.

Both Pedro and Lesya are very family oriented and children are also made very welcome at Cantina. There is a small children’s play park and room to play. The area is enclosed and allows those with young children to enjoy their food or a quiet drink while the children are safely amusing themselves.

Despite only opening at the beginning of August the restaurant is already proving to be a big hit with the locals. It is advisable to book a table to avoid disappointment. Cantina Rojales. Malecon del Soto, 1 Recinto Ferial, Rojales, Telephone 865 757 318 you can also find them on Facebook 'Cantina Rojales'.

WHO DISCOVERED NEPTUNE? An international incident.

Most of the planets in our solar system have been known since antiquity, under the dark skies of the ancient world, people noticed that some of the stars wandered across the sky. Saturn, Jupiter, Mars and Venus were all well known long before the Romans went to Britain. Even tiny Mercury, so close to the Sun was recorded in 265 BC. The name 'planet' comes from ancient Greek, it means 'wanderer'.

This knowledge was how things remained for well over 2000 years, until the planet Uranus was found by a chap called Willian Herschel in 1781. He built fantastic telescopes and noticed something moving in the constellation Gemini, not a comet as he first thought, but a new planet.

Quite a while earlier, in 1666 a curmudgeonly chap called Isaac Newton created a new mathematics, the laws of motion. These were used by people investigating how the planets moved, and then finding that some of them were not moving as predicted. There were only two possibilities, either the maths was wrong or something unknown was affecting the movement of the planets. These guys weren't fools, they all checked their sums, which were correct, so there had to be something unknown way out past Uranus.

More than one astronomer was working on this problem, but each of them didn't know about the others. There was Galle, a Prussian, La Verrier, a Frenchman, and John Couch Adams, who was British. In 1846, Galle using La Verrier's calculations found Neptune very close to its predicted position, at much the same time Neptune was found using Couch's calculations, although not as precisely. At that time, France and Britain were barely on speaking terms so quite a dispute broke out as to who should get the credit.

I won't linger on past politics, I'll just say that today, Neptune's discovery is jointly attributed to them both. Why? It turns out that they had both been very lucky. Neptune has a rather odd orbit, and if they had done the sums for any other date they would have missed Neptune completely. It turns out that the maths they used was only correct for one date every 165 years, that's how long it takes it takes Neptune to orbit the Sun, one Neptunian year.

This discovery was the first time a planet, or anything else in the heavens, was discovered using mathematics, and it paved the way for our current and future understanding of the way gravity rules the universe. I wonder what the next great discovery will be.

For us amateur astronomers, Neptune, although scientifically interesting, is very boring visually, just a tiny blueish dot in your telescope. At the moment it is just on the border of Pisces and Aquarius in the south east. It's probably worth finding just to say you've seen it, but I doubt you'll ever bother again, It's over 50 years since I've seen it!

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

Where are the best Spanish cities to live?

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

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.

Charles Oates, Vega Baja Astronomy Group.

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.

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.

Freemasons Continue to Support the Needy in our Communities

Reach Out Extienda La Mano recently celebrated 11 years in Torrevieja.

From their centre, in addition to providing food to people in crisis, they provide packed lunches for homeless people, shower facilities, washing machines, and donated clothing to help the homeless maintain some degree of dignity and hygiene. The Families’ Food Bank helps to lift families out of crisis, and help everyone to move forward. Their Torrevieja centre comprises of offices, a canteen, a food bank, second hand shop, as well as a storage and a workshop area where electrical devices are pat-tested before being offered for sale.

Old Tower Freemasons Lodge No. 49 has been supporting ‘Reach Out’ for a number of years, relying on the generosity of Brethren and their families to donate food, clothing, and other items, in addition to Lodge Charity Funds.

During a recent monthly meeting with the Lodge Charity Steward, W. Bro. Alan Clarke, the Charity President Alexandru Petricean, stated that there was an urgent need for hygiene products especially soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, toiletries, nappies, and bleach, as well as baby food products.

Following a significant grant of 1,000€ from our Provincial Grand Master, Old Tower Lodge was able to supplement its own work with an immediate donation of hygiene products, much needed and in severe short supply. Alex and his staff were most grateful for the donations received by the Freemasons of Valencia.

The Old Tower Lodge No 49 strategy to support this charity includes a new motto – ‘Reach Out - I’ll Be There’

This is another great example of Masonic Charity in Action, and underpins our commitment to help make a difference in the local communities where we live.

W.

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 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.

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

The photo shows Alex Petricean (centre) Charity President, and

Bro Alan Clarke (right) Old Tower Lodge Charity Steward, accompanied by W. Bro Chris Ward from Old Tower Lodge.

The time is near for the annual event of the worlds biggest coffee morning for Macmillan Cancer Support to be held at that Jolly's Bar in Quesada. This huge event will take place on Saturday 7th October from 10am till 3pm with many activities planned for the day to raise as much funds as possible, whilst also making a fun day for all the family.

Jolly's Bar are proud to officially be on the register to support Macmillan charity and all the fantastic work they do, which wouldn't be possible without the great organisation skills of Sarah Devonport and her helpers both before and after the day. Through the enthusiasm and generosity of Jolly's Bar regular customers and beyond, activities began earlier in the year making the current fund pot over 5000€ with events such as a sponsored walk by Gillian and Tracy, Jolly's Golf Society, an England v Rest of the World football game sponsored by Jolly's and Coopers Bar and race night & music bingo. Further events later in the year are still to happen like 6 volunteers taking part in a sponsored skydive.

Throughout the year, Jolly's Bar also actively support local charities Helping Hands and Reach Out Rojales.

On Saturday 7th October make sure you arrive early as it is sure to be a packed day. Sarah has organised live music from FMC who will be performing your favourite hits throughout the decades, lots of games, football cards, tombola and a raffle, and there will be 2 games of the very popular music bingo and of course there will be homemade and fake-away cakes available to buy.

If anyone would like to contribute in these amazing causes by donating cakes and raffle prizes just pop your donated prizes into the bar as soon as possible and your cakes on the morning of the 7th. So put the date in your diary and come along to join in the fun and make a difference to other peoples lives. See our advert below right for address and contact details.

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.

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PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS

Across: 7 Elbow, 9 Unusual, 10 Letters, 11 Soapy, 12 Weaver, 14 Weirdo, 17 Detest, 19 Sprint, 21 Fetch, 23 Skiddoo, 24 Optimum, 25 Sheen.

Down: 1 Newly-wed, 2 Abstract, 3 Rubs, 4 Aussie, 5 Puma, 6 Play, 8 Where, 13 Rot, 14 Was, 15 Reindeer, 16 Outgoing, 18 Scheme, 20 Plies, 21 Flog, 22 Tots, 23 Some.