QFocus On August 2022 by Female Focus Publications

FR E

August 2022

COSTA BLANCA south

Serving the community since 1993

ASTRONOMY Solar Flares - Coronal Mass Ejections - should we worry?

TRAVEL

Free trains & advice from the N-332 group

QFocus Magazine August 2022

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OUR SUN HAS SOME FLARE

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JUST WHAT IS GOING ON UP THERE?

here have been quite a few stories in the press over the last few weeks about things happening with our favourite star, the Sun. Many of these stories use sensationalist language like “satellites knocked back to Earth” and “giant solar storm will roast us all” so I thought I had better explain just what is going on. The first thing to understand is that the Sun is not a steady unchanging star, like everything in nature, it's changing all the time, we call it a variable star. Fortunately for us it only varies by about 0.1 %, if it was much more Earth would be a very unpleasant place for humans. A major part of this constant change is what's called the solar cycle, a period of time over which the Sun goes through a rise and fall in how much activity is going on up there. Actually, there are several different cycles some of which overlap, these include a rise and fall in the number of sunspots, a complete reversal of the Sun’s magnetic field and a rise in the number of solar flares. All these things are linked but an explanation involves quite a bit of nuclear physics, and this isn't the place for all that. What is concerning the newspapers most is the number of solar flares and CMEs or coronal mass ejections. Despite what newspapers say, these are not the same thing at all, although they are linked. A solar flare isn't a real concern to us, but a CME is a different matter, so just what is it? Simply put it's a vast cloud of solar plasma, highly magnetic and full of protons and electrons that will take up to 18 hours to get from the Sun to Earth. It's these particles that can and do cause havoc for us. The most intensive recorded solar storm was called the Carrington event in 1859, at the dawn of our electrical age. It almost destroyed many telegraph systems, even setting fire to some telegraph stations. Society has moved on since then and almost everything now is vulnerable to these events. Naturally engineers are well aware of the dangers, and will do what they can to design protection, but that makes things more expensive, so many things like electrical transformers have to take their chances. That's the bad news, the good news is that we would have to be unlucky to be hit by a dangerous CME. The Sun is a vast globe, we are a tiny planet so the chances of a big CME firing off at just the right time, in just the right direction to hit us are small. But sooner or later............ This month’s picture was taken a short time ago by Ron Giddy, one of our members. Vega Baja Astronomy Group. That cloud leaving the Sun, is much bigger than the Earth.

Charles Oates,

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

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QFocus Magazine August 2022

Superior Health Insurance for you and your family I appreciate everything has changed due to Brexit, but it is now far more important to have health insurance. This is not as easy as it sounds as the choices are limited. Be very careful with your choice, for example a bank is not a good decision. You need to make sure there is an English speaker who can help you understand exactly what you are purchasing and how to use it. It is vital you follow the guidelines for using the policy, especially in regards to emergencies and hospitalisation, you could find yourself with a hefty bill to pay if you do not follow the correct procedures. If you decide to use the Spanish National Health, you will be required to provide a SIP card, EHIC or payment before treatment. The Spanish health system is very stretched and of course this means long waiting lists. ASSSA provides hospitals, clinics, specialists and doctors, many of whom speak several languages to make your health decisions easier and faster. Obviously if you are in acute pain, you do need to discover what is causing it and within the national health this can take many months to resolve and private health care offers the opportunity to speed up the process. ASSSA also provide emergency cover and their own ambulances, where you will be taken

to a hospital related to ASSSA, which you find in your ASSSA book. My company has an ASSSA administrator to help answer your questions, process your authorisation requests and liaise with ASSSA on your behalf if you should so wish. Yes, there are many cheaper options that you could consider. Do not be tempted by the price, you will not get what you need or expect. All private health insurance in Spain are limited in certain areas and be sure to understand these limitations before purchasing. Of course, ASSSA health policies are accepted for your residencia and visa applications and they provide the legal certification required. Unlike health insurance in the UK you will be presently surprised at the prices here in Spain. The difference is the Spanish government encourages the use of private health care, therefore the prices and the taxes are far lower than you may think. If you would like a quotation or more information please contact one of my offices, email info@jennifercunningham.net or visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net

QFocus Magazine August 2022

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www.femalefocusonline.com July has been a very busy month for us in both good and bad ways. It started with a visit from some of my closest friends for the Rojales fiestas which was a packed weekend of overindulgence in every way possible. This was followed by a visit to Barcelona with my not so little angel to see one of her pop idols in concert. It was a brilliant evening and felt so good to finally be able to do the things that we love again. We then returned to the UK on the hottest weekend known to Britain to attend the funeral of one of the nicest men I have ever had the pleasure of meeting and honoured to call my father in law. This was a very sad and poignant occasion, however it was a beautiful service to do him and all the family proud. Owen will be sadly missed by all that knew and loved him. Next stop is Alicante for the long awaited wedding of my oldest niece. This should have been held in 2020, but like everything else in that year it had to be postponed. I’m sure it will be a fantastic celebration and I am looking forward to seeing family from the UK that we haven't seen for numerous years. Take care during this intense heat... Drink plenty of water, slap on the sun-cream and drive carefully - there are a lot of hire cars with drivers that are unfamiliar with the roads here, so patience and consideration is needed. Until next time.... Michelle QFocus Magazine covering the Alicante South region and Focus On Magazine covering the Alicante North region. Discuss your advertising with your local representative:-

Sales Manager Michelle 663 178 228 michelle@femalefocusonline.com

QFocus Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055 Pick up your next issue on 6 September

Deadline for advertising & editorial - 22 August

Please send editorial to editor@femalefocusonline.com Advert content to advertising@femalefocusonline.com

Like and Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FemaleFocus/ & Instagram @FemaleFocusPublications Female Focus is proud to have been voted the third most popular magazine worldwide in the independent Expat Survey Consumer Awards

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Three Amata craft fairs in August

QFocus Magazine August 2022

This month craft association Amata organizes two weekend markets in the province of Alicante, while their summer fair in the port of Jávea is in full swing until 4 September. In all three fairs only work made by the stall holder is sold and each stall offers something different. The first weekend fair is in San Fulgencio, in the La Marina urbanization, where thousands of people live or spend their summer holidays. That's in the evenings of 5, 6 and 7 August and it promises to be a lively market, with live Jazz and lots of swing, and all participants dress up in 1920s style. The fair is aimed at public of all ages, with lots of activities for kids, workshops and craft demonstrations. Two weeks later they are holding an arts and crafts fair in Hondón de las Nieves; this will be for the seventh time. Two jugglers will entertain the public, there are workshops for children and on Saturday at midnight there is the famous correfocs, a parade with lots of fireworks and noise, that attracts people from all over the area. We briefly summarize the three fairs, each one with a link to the programme. * San Fulgencio – in Calle Francisco de Quevedo of La Marina Urbanization – August 5, 6 and 7 in the evenings from 6pm to midnight - https://www.puebloartesano.es/sanfulgencio.html * Hondón de las Nieves – in the old town – Friday, 19 August, 7pm - 12pm.; Saturday, 20 August, 11am - 2pm and 7pm - 12pm and Sunday, 21 August, 11am - 2pm https://www.puebloartesano.es/hondon.html. * Jávea – on the Paseo Marítimo in the port – every evening in August from 7pm to midnight – https://www.puebloartesano.es/javeaverano.html.

QFocus Magazine August 2022

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I often write about this investment - quarterly infact

But I can't mention its name which WOULD be known to you, as some miserable adviser from another firm reported me to this company and the company made me promise to not mention their name in an unauthorised article. Fine. What I'd like to do this month is expound the unique virtues of this investment. We have very few investments that deliver a guaranteed return, but this is our closest with few strings attached;

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

3.5% p.a. 2.8% p.a. 2.4% p.a. 1.6% p.a.

(note: The above is what new investors would receive and investors of over 5 years would receive 1.2% p.a. more than published rates above) However, the Investment can be subject to stock market movements but these are very limited movements for 2 reasons; a) the enormous size and diversity of the funds used in every sector imaginable, over many countries and currencies where one market factor will not affect it unduly, and b) its unique smoothing feature which takes out the volatility of the daily ups and downs of the market. Since Putin, decided it would be a reasonable thing to destroy the lives of people closely related to himself, the markets have taken a bit of a hit with volatility but this investment, with its smoothing system has ridden the storm extremely well. This is excellent for inexperienced investors and historically gives vastly better returns than bank interest returns. The current environment creates opportunities and this is what one fund manager says of an investment that I hold; “.... we have added back government bonds, which tend to perform better in a recessionary environment. But we remain underweight corporate bonds, which are likely to perform less well in a downturn. Over and above this, we have identified a number of attractive opportunities caused by the current market volatility and will be deploying our above-average cash weightings to take advantage...” QFocus readers - In an inflationary market, money sitting in a bank will go backward in value quicker than the blink of an eye and that's why you need to have a proportion of your wealth in assets that can track inflationary movements. That normally means property (not necessarily Spanish property) and stocks and shares. But definitely NOT cash. Do you want to hang on to or enhance your current wealth? Please call me for for an initial brief discussion of your circumstances and what I might be able to do for you. If I think I can help, then we can meet. (minimum investment availability must be £20,000/€25,000) David Diggle C.A.T. DipFA (Certified Accounting Technician) (British Level 4 Professional Investment Adviser) Tel: 615 607 278 / 865 751 713 / 965 704 338 Seagate Wealth Management, Avenida Federico Garcia, 101, Benijofar, 03178, Alicante. Email: dave.diggle@seagatewealth.es or info@daviddiggle.es Website: www.seagatewealth.es or www.daviddiggle.es We work in conjunction with fully regulated and authorised companies. See advert alongside for more information

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QFocus Magazine August 2022

SUDOKU

Here are two Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try. It is not a maths game at all - it is a pure logic game. F i l l i n t h e g r i d s o t h a t e v e r y 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.

CROSSWORD

Across

7 At once (11) 8 Deeply respectful (8) 9 Gawked at (4) 10 Nile dam (5) 11 Digested yam diet between dawn and dusk (7) 14 Formal speech (7) 16 Sudden convulsion (5) 19 Toque wearer (4) 21 Earthly end of the line (8) 22 Painful throat infection (11) Down 1 Ailing De Sade is ill (8) 2 Simple life form (6) 3 Advanced slowly (5) 4 One left standing (4,3) 5 The last word (6) 6 Promote to excess (4) 12 Regard suspiciously (8) 13 Clairvoyant (7)

15 Money back (6) 17 Starch source (6) 18 Bouquet (5) 20 Boaters and bonnets (4)

See back pages for answers

QFocus Magazine August 2022

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The After-Brexit Retrospective Licence Manifesto. A Must Read If You’ve Done Unlicenced Building Work. article supplied by Martinez de la Casa Architects

1. What are the consequences of having building work (extensions or pools) carried out without a proper licence? What is the cost of fines? As for May 2021, building work done without a proper licence will be subject to a fine and demolition order if detected by the Spanish authorities. The cost of the fines will vary between different town halls, size of the extension, kind of plot, etc., but they can easily be over 300€ per square metre. (EG a fine for a 10 square metre shed, can easily reach 3,000€.) The building work can also develop into a court case. For the above reason and if not detected by the authorities, it will devalue the price of the property if it is being marketed. Property owners feel anxious or stressed for having done unlicensed building work and fear, not only receiving a heavy fine, but also that it could be problem at the sale or inheritance process. 2. When is it obligatory to have a Building Licence?

areas etc. If the property has been extended with building work, or a pool constructed without a proper licence, owners can still obtain Retrospective Licences after Brexit if the building work meets the necessary conditions. 3. What are the conditions to obtain a Retrospective Licence for an extension built without a proper Building Licence? • In Murcia, to obtain a Retrospective Licence it is essential that the building work already done is at least 4 years old. • In Almeria, the building work needs to be over 6 years old. • In Alicante, 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 received a fine. 4. Are Retrospective Licences for building work done without a Building Licence after Brexit still possible to obtain? Can law changes affect Retrospective Licences? Yes, law changes can affect the conditions to be able to obtain a Retrospective Licence and in fact the conditions have changed over the years. At the moment Retrospective Licences are still possible to obtain after Brexit. If and when there is a law change that makes these licences unavailable Martinez de la Casa Architects will inform the general public. Once the Retrospective Licence is issued, the unlicenced extension / pool cannot be objected to by any authority, regardless of any future law changes. So, if you feel anxious, stressed or concerned for having done building work without a proper licence it is just the perfect time to fix the matter, (only in case the building work meet the conditions mentioned in point 2) the process is 100% trouble free and straight forward. continued on next page

In Spain it is currently compulsory to have a licence for any kind of building work, including minor work such as rendering, installing new windows, retiling etc. Retrospective Licences are only valid for major building work such as house extensions, garages, carports, glazed areas, underbuilds, pools, workshops, storage

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Page 9 www.femalefocusonline.com QFocus Magazine August 2022 5. In case a Retrospective Licence is possible, what is its cost Find all the Spanish words from the word list in the puzzle grid. Words and procedure? may be found going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally.

For all enquiries or to arrange an appointment, please call 665 810 411 (English) or visit www.martinezdelacasa.com to see an impressive list of over 300 testimonials by different clients.

Answers can be found in the back of the magazine. Good Luck.

BODIES OF WATER

ALBERCA - WATER DEPOSIT (POOL) ARROYO - STREAM BAHIA - BAY CALA - COVE CANAL - CHANNEL CASCADA - WATERFALL CHARCO - PUDDLE EMBALSE - RESERVOIR ESTANQUE - POND ESTRECHO - STRAIT

WORD SEARCH

Currently the process for obtaining a Retrospective Licence is straightforward and only Spanish architects are able to issue them. Once confirmed, Martinez de la Casa Architects will arrange an appointment to survey the pool / extension requiring only your NIE and current Title Deeds. Back in our office we check the age of the pool using satellite images (pictured is an example used in the process for Retrospective Licence Certification) along with the measurements and documentation we take during our on-site visit. The Retrospective Licence / Certificate of Antiquity is stamped by the Official College of Architects or Notarised and delivered within 10 working days (guaranteed). The price of a Pool Retrospective Licence (Certificate of Antiquity) is 190€+IVA (229€ IVA incl) and for Extensions 270€+IVA (326€ IVA incl. All extensions in the property included). Martinez de la Casa Architects is the Number One company for Architectural Certification in Southern Spain, including Energy Performance Certificates (121€ inc IVA) and Habitation/ Occupation Licences (prices depending on each Town Hall) and Retrospective Licences.

ESTUARIO - ESTUARY GEISER - GEYSOR GOLFO - GULF LAGO - LAKE LAGUNA - LAGOON MAR - SEA OASIS - OASIS OCEANO - OCEAN PANTANO - MARSH / WETLAND PRESA - DAM RIO - RIVER

QFocus Magazine August 2022

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Scotsman is new head of Age in Spain

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A Scot living in Santiago de Compostela has been elected President of Age in Spain, the organisation dedicated to supporting older English language speakers living in Spain or thinking of moving here. John Rafferty joined the organisation as a volunteer on its Residency Helpline which supported people concerned about their residency status during the Brexit negotiations. Becoming a trustee of Age in Spain, John convened a campaign group which has delivered awareness raising campaigns on dementia and on what is involved in moving to or living in Spain. Alongside a career at chief executive level in the voluntary and public sectors, John chaired NHS trusts in Scotland and England before moving to Spain. Commenting on his election as President, John said ‘I am delighted to accept this role and I very much look forward to contributing to the magnificent work carried out by the many volunteers who are at the heart of Age in Spain. ‘The organisation has been serving English speakers in Spain for 30 years and has provided many vital services to those needing support and information, particularly the most vulnerable. ‘The task before us is to maintain and expand those services to meet increasing need in the future. I relish the opportunity to work with our many volunteers, staff and supporters to achieve that end.’ John has long been a champion of volunteering and the development of infrastructure to support volunteering. He takes up his new post alongside three new Trustees of Age in Spain who have also had practical experience as volunteers with the organisation. Marijke Cazemier, David Dransfield and Margaret McKay strengthen the practical skills on the Board of Trustees, with expertise in project

management, quality standards and leadership. The founder of Age in Spain, Judy Arnold-Boakes, MBE, becomes the organisation’s first Honorary Vice President. About Age in Spain: Age in Spain – the first national charity in Spain to be dedicated to the welfare of English-speaking older people - aims to empower older people to lead fuller lives in their adopted country. We provide support and access to services to meet changing needs and circumstances, enabling people to help themselves, integrate into local society and to access available support if needed. We are a small, independent organisation with a network of volunteers throughout the mainland, the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands. We ● tackle loneliness, help people become actively engaged in Spanish life, and support people to live independently for longer ● advise on health and social care provision so people can access services and make choices about their later life in Spain ● provide a specialist support service for UK Armed Forces Veterans - veterans@ageinspain.org ● provide information through free online guides and our telephone / email Infoline service - info@ageinspain.org +34 932 209 741 General enquiries: email: info@ageinspain.org, Tel: +34 932 209 741 Website: www.ageinspain.org

Passport validity for UK visitors to Spain

If you have friends and family from the UK coming to visit you in Spain, do make sure that they are aware of the rules on passport validity. Visitors from the UK must meet the Schengen area rules (https://ec.europa.eu/.../schengen.../schengen-area_en.) Passports must meet 2 requirements. They must be: • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’) • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’) People should check both the issue date and the expiry date in their passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. These extra months do not count towards the validity needed and could affect whether your passport meets the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old. You can find more information on all the entry requirements for Spain at https://www.gov.uk/foreign.../spain/entry-requirements If you are a UK National living in Spain and covered by the Withdrawal Agreement, you do not need any extra months on your passport to enter or exit EU countries.

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QFocus Magazine August 2022

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Recipes by Pushpa from the Spice Hut Quinoa Spicy Chilli

1/4 cup of Quinoa 1 onion, finely diced 2 green chillies, finely diced 1 tspn chilli powder 1 tspn cumin powder 1 tspn garam masala powder 2 tspn of garlic paste 1 tspn of ginger paste 1 can of chopped tomatoes 1 can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 can of white beans or any other sort, drained and rinsed 1/2 can of sweet corn, drained Fresh coriander for garnish 1 cup of water Little oil Salt Cook the quinoa as instructed on the packet and set aside. Heat the oil, sauté the diced onions, add fresh chillies, garlic paste, ginger paste, and all dry spices/ powders. Add the chopped tomatoes and water, cook for a few minutes and add the beans. When nice and thick add the Quinoa and mix well. Add salt as required. Serve hot, garnished with coriander and natural yoghurt. Enjoy.

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

Spot the odd one out

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A JUNE WEDDING FOR SPANGLES

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The Spanish Association of Barbershop Singers, of which Spangles is a founding member, recently reached out to respond to an urgent enquiry. County Councilor Brian O’Donoghue from Rathvilly, County Carlow in Ireland, planned to marry at the Hotel Perla Marina in Nerja, Málaga. He wanted to surprise his bride-to-be, Miriam, with a serenade or two by a barbershop ensemble while she was getting ready on her big day. Chorus Manager, Lyn Baines, contacted Brian straight away and gave him links to recent performances. He was very impressed with what he saw and agreed that a sextet would be ideal for the occasion. Musical Director, Valerie Lynch, set to work and ‘The Spanglettes’ was formed with Lyn and Maggie singing bass, Carol singing Baritone, Barbara singing Tenor and Valerie and Linda singing Lead. ‘The Spanglettes’ travelled to Nerja from Los Alcázares the day before the wedding. On the big day, they arrived in good time at the hotel and were greeted by the wedding planner, who sneaked them up to the corridor outside the bride’s room. Miriam heard ‘Love Me With All Your Heart’ and opened the door, in total surprise! A few more songs were sung to her and her bridesmaids and ‘The Spanglettes’ wished the couple a long and happy life together. “We were so honoured to be included in Miriam and Brian’s special day and it was a beautiful lead up to our summer break,” said Valerie. Spangles is a ladies’ a cappella chorus, singing in four-part harmony. They rehearse every Thursday, from 10am to 1pm at Centro Municipal Las Claras, Calle Helena, Los Narejos, Los Alcázares and visitors are always welcome. If you’d like to book the chorus for an event, or maybe you’d like to join them, you can find out more on their website: www.spangleschorus.com or email info@spangleschorus.com.

Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre Our mission is to rescue and rehabilitate abused, neglected and abandoned horses, ponies and donkeys, while campaigning for the better treatment of animals across Spain. We are a no-kill foundation and provide each rescued animal with a safe and loving sanctuary – either here at our centre or via rehoming – for the rest of their lives. You can contact us, Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre co-founders Sue and Rod Weeding, for help and advice on reporting animal abuse or if you would like to support our cause by donating, volunteering or visiting the rescue centre. Phone: +34 652 021 980 Email: rescue@easyhorsecare.net. www.easyhorsecare.net.

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Cool things to eat this summer

We know we’re supposed to drink at least two litres of water a day, according to the European Food Safety Authority. Keeping hydrated is particularly important in the hot summer months. We’ve found some other fluids to help you stay hydrated and keep cool. Healthy watermelon recipes Watermelon is 90% water and very healthy as it also contains vitamin, C, vitamin A and magnesium. As well as being delicious eaten on its own, especially when it's cold, you can turn it into a home-made slushie by blending watermelon with water and freezing it to make a granita. Add watermelon to salads - it works particularly well with goat's cheese or avocado. Otherwise freeze slices of watermelon for instant ice pops or to add as flavoured ice cubes to water or other soft drinks.

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Making cucumber water Cucumber is around 96% water, making it the best food to eat to keep hydrated. Add cucumber to any salad or sandwich. Many spas and beauty salons know the virtue of cucumber water and it’s very easy to make yourself at home. All you need to do is slice half a cucumber into thin rounds. Put in a large jar. Add eight cups of cold water and put in the fridge for at least an hour. You can add some fresh herbs such as basil or mint while it's infusing for added flavour or serve it with slices of lemon, orange or lime. Healthy gazpacho soup Gazpacho is a famous cold Spanish soup packed with flavour and healthy ingredients. You can buy it in any supermarket or make your own. Chop tomatoes, green peppers, cucumber onions and garlic and blend them. Once blended, add salt and pepper to taste, and then slowly add olive oil while the blender is running. Refrigerate for a few hours. You can serve it with croutons and chopped tomatoes, cucumber, peppers and onion if you wish. Easy salmorejo recipe Salmorejo is easier to make and, personally, I find it much tastier than gazpacho. You can also buy this in the supermarket but it’s quick and easy to make. You need fresh, ripe tomatoes. Peel the skin by cutting an X in the bottom of the tomatoes, plunge in boiling water for 30 seconds and then put in a bowl of iced water. It's then easy to peel off the skin. Blend the tomatoes, add stale bread crumbs, mix and leave for a few minutes. Add salt, garlic and a splash of sherry vinegar. Then slowly add olive oil to emulsify. To be honest, I sometimes just stir in the oil afterwards instead of slowly emulsyfing it in the blender. Refrigerate until it's very cold. You can add chopped hard-boiled egg and ham to serve. Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

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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How to travel free on trains until December

et the train take the strain was a slogan in 1980s Britain to encourage more people to use the railways. Now Spain has provided an even greater incentive to hop on board the trains - free travel from September 1 until December 31. President of the Government in Spain, Pedro Sánchez, announced that 100% of all tickets, except for long-distance or single journeys, operated by Renfe will be free including monthly subscriptions and bono tickets for a minimum of 10 return trips. Sánchez explained that 100% of all non-individual tickets will be discounted, which could mean around 75 million trips of less than 300 kilometres are now free. The objective is to encourage more people to use public transport to save energy in the face of high fuel prices. If you regularly travel in or around Alicante or Valencia, it has always paid to buy a multi-journey ticket to get discounts of around 50% of the full price of a single journey. Now you can travel for free. Even if you don’t travel by train for work, you could plan several sightseeing trips to Alicante, Orihuela, Alcoy, Elche, Valencia, Gandia or Xativa, for example, to take advantage of the government scheme. Just check which multi-journey travel card is best for you in terms of type of travel and the length of time it is valid before you buy. In Alicante province, passengers on three Cercanías lines will be able to benefit from this measure. The Alicante-Murcia which stops in Orihuela, Callosa de Segura, San Isidro-Albatera-Catral, Crevillent, Elx Carrús, Elx Parc, Torrellano and San Gabriel; Alcoy-Xàtiva; and Alicante-San Vicente lines will be free for anyone who purchases a subscription during the last four months of the year. Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

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COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Founded by Benny Davis in 2007 ACTS are busy rehearsing for their next production, ‘Sex Please We're Sixty’ which they will be presenting at Casa de Cultura in Benijofar on the 17, 18 & 19 November, as usual the tickets will be 10€, curtain up at 7.30pm. You can reserve your tickets for this hysterical play by WhatsApp message to 602 683 925 now. Alternatively, tickets will be available at their outlets from mid August. Rojales Pantomime Group: Over 20 members and friends of the group enjoyed getting together for a great evening event at Lo Crispin, just one of the many social events organised throughout the year. Lots of fabulous new members have joined the cast and crew and rehearsals have already commenced for the very funny pantomime ‘Treasure Island’ to be performed 1, 2 and 3 December in San Fulgencia which you won’t want to miss...... Oh no you won’t!! Look out for details in this column.

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Studio 32: The Company’s autumn show which will be a celebration of awardwinning musicals, entitled, ‘A Night on Broadway’ will take at the Cardenal Belluga theatre on Thurs 10, Fri 11 and Sat 12 November. Tickets can be booked online. They are always looking for people to join the group who can, or have the aspirations to sing, dance and act, or who have experience working in the theatre backstage, in lighting, sound etc and in particular who have experience working with costumes. If you are that person and would like further information on this theatre company, please visit website www.studiothirtytwo.org or call 679 062 272. The Costa Blanca Singers invite you to go to one of their two open afternoons at Cafeina in Consum Square, on 18 August at 2pm and 1 September 6pm to find out more about TCBS. Thereafter, they will meet every Wednesday from 7 September at The Social Centre La Marina (situated behind the medical centre) on La Marina urbanizacion, San Fulgencio from 14.30-16.30. The songs will be a selection of several genres and TCBS encourage you to bring the words from 1-2 of your favourite songs to be considered. Contact them by sending a WhatsApp message to 641 992 164, 688 688 546 or 0044 7850431876. You will not be required to audition and your experience or lack of it will be equally welcome. 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

Spot the 13 differences (answers in the classified pages)

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QFocus Magazine August 2022

The N-332 are a group of Spanish Traffic Police Officers who decided to create a Facebook group to inform all ex-pats and tourists about Spanish traffic laws as they think it is unfair to fine them for breaking rules they didn't know about. You can find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DrivingSpain/ and follow them to keep up to date as they only share official information.

Warning Triangles & V-16 sign (orange flashing light)

Until 01/01/2026 you can use both, together or separate BUT from that date it will be compulsory to use the V-16 sign, and although it is advisable to use the triangle, it will not be mandatory to use it or have one in the vehicle. Those who are planning to buy the V-16 sign should know that in 2026 this sign must include a geolocation system connected to DGT 3.0. Therefore if you have bought it without it you will need to change it. This next generation of the V-16 signs will interact with the Traffic Department. Once is activated by the driver the device will send a message reporting its location and all drivers will immediately know that there is an incident on that point. V-16 sign and motorbikes It is only advisable, but not mandatory for these vehicles. As you can see in the photo it can give your vehicle more visibility if you have a breakdown in poor visibility conditions.

Driving in Spain - Planning your trip before leaving.

If you are going to drive this summer on the Spanish roads, we advise you to visit the official page from the Spanish traffic department (DGT) and check the current situation of the roads before starting your trip. During the summer fires, along with accidents around the country cause the closure of roads. This website is constantly and automatically updated with information entered 24 hours a day by Traffic Officers of the Civil Guard and managers of DGT's Traffic Management Centres. https://infocar.dgt.es/etraffic/ (You have the option of choosing a location or a road and seeing the situation at a particular point.)

Location of the motorway tolls in Spain

If you are travelling find out if your route includes toll roads. Red colour; toll Blue colour; free Payment of tolls is generally compulsory for the following motor vehicles: motorcycles, cars, vans, buses or coaches, lorries or heavy vehicles. Source; https://administracion.gob.es/.../nor.../peajes-vinetas.html Road Safety is a thing for everyone. Drive responsibly!

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our ARIES Try to avoid arguments for arguments’ sake. Even if you are pushed, just breathe and let it go, don’t raise to their bait. It is hot and everyone has a shorter fuse this month. Things are going to be tense but nothing said in haste should be taken personally. TAURUS You will be meeting so many new people, and some you have not seen for a long time. it is going to be a month of experiences and enjoyment, but be careful not to over indulge too much. GEMINI It is going to be a turbulent month for you and you will really need to keep your cool. You are going to be asking yourself some serious questions about where you want to go with your life. Don’t make any hasty decisions, think it through. CANCER Keeping cool will prove to be a challenge, but you can do it. With everywhere being so busy and everyone seeming to be a such a rush you will be glad to see the back of this month. LEO This month seems to be about money and finances. Over indulging now will leave you short in the future. You really don’t need to spend that much to get the same result. Splashing out for short term gratification is not the answer. VIRGO Family are pushed into the background as you want to achieve your goals no matter what. Of course they will support you, but appreciate what they are doing for you, especially when they are not gaining anything personally.

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oroscope LIBRA As usual you will take on more work than you can cope with if you are not careful. Stop and think how this will affect your home life - is it worth it? If so carry on, but think of family as well as it doesn’t just affect you. Make sure you get some quality time with them and really make it special. SCORPIO Investing in yourself will always reap rewards. This may be a massage or a car - anything within reach that makes your life run more smoothly is only going to help you in achieving your goals. Try not to run out of patience towards the end of the month. SAGITTARIUS New experiences will come your way and you might surprise yourself with how much you enjoy them. This gives you a new found desire to challenge yourself to discover more. CAPRICORN Keep up with your to do list otherwise you will be chasing your tail all month. There will be more money moving around this month so make sure you make it work well for you - spend wisely. AQUARIUS Try to get some time to relax at this busy time. Enjoy your time with loved ones and friends, and if you are working, with your colleagues. Everyone will find this month a bit more challenging with the heat. PISCES Making plans for the future will keep you focused on the reasons why you are doing what you need to do right now. You might not feel you are living your best life at the moment, but stop and you will see just how lucky you really are in your journey.

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS For families and friends of problem drinkers. There are meetings in Torrevieja. Phone 634 349 961.

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QFocus Magazine August 2022

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 Urco is around 5 years old and has some health issues. He has Megaesophagus and must eat soft food only whilst standing up. He has a paralysed larynx and can’t bark. He needs some TLC, he is not on any medication and doesn’t need any special food. Call or Whatsapp K9 on 711 075 305 or k9clubinfo@gmail.com or K9 Facebook.

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Looking for a dog, puppy, cat or kitten to adopt. Call: 645 469 253, visit our web www.petsinspain.com or email info@petsinspain.com

SUPPORT LOCAL SHOP LOCAL

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS Across: 7 Immediately, 8 Reverent, 9 Eyed, 10 Aswan, 11 Daytime, 14 Address, 16 Spasm, 19 Chef, 21 Cemetery, 22 Tonsillitis. Down: 1 Diseased, 2 Amoeba, 3 Edged, 4 Last man, 5 Newest, 6 Hype, 12 Mistrust, 13 Psychic, 15 Refund, 17 Potato, ANSWER TO SPOT THE ODD ONE OUT: C 18 Smell, 20 Hats.

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