QFOcus On November 2022

COSTA

south

The importance of eye tests this Diabetes Day

Specsavers Ópticas on the Costa Blanca are reminding people of the importance of regular eye tests to support World Diabetes Day (14 November).

Lisa James from Specsavers Ópticas in Guardamar explains that many people with diabetes do not get any symptoms, which means it can take up to 10 years before they are diagnosed1. However, if it is left untreated it can cause damage to the eyes, heart, kidneys, and feet.

Around 1 in 3 people with diabetes develop some form of eye health complication, according to the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF)2 . However, when Specsavers Ópticas conducted a survey last year, a quarter of the respondents were not aware that diabetes can affect your eye health.

Lisa explains: ‘14.8% of adults in Spain are living with diabetes3 and in Europe that number is over 61 million. Almost 1 in 2 adults (44%) with diabetes remain undiagnosed4. This means that there are 240 million people who are at risk of developing serious eye health complications and even sight loss.

How diabetes affects your eyes:

A complication of diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, which can occur when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the back of the eye. If left untreated it can cause blindness.

Lisa adds: ‘Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in working age adults, even in developed countries5 , so it’s hugely important that diabetes is detected early and monitored correctly to minimise the risk of avoidable sight loss.

‘At Specsavers Ópticas, we offer digital retinal photography free of charge as part of a standard eye test for customers aged over 40. This takes a detailed picture of the back of your eye allowing the blood vessels to be monitored more closely – helping to spot any signs of diabetes that might be present.’

There are Specsavers Ópticas stores in Javea, Calpe, Benidorm, Torrevieja, Guardamar and La Zenia on the Costa Blanca. To find out more or to book your next appointment visit www.specsavers.es

1. https://www.diabetes.org.uk/diabetes-the-basics/what-is-type-2-diabetes

2. https://idf.org/news/99:idf-and-leading-eye-health-organizations-call-for-urgent-action-to-address-diabetic-eye-disease.html

3. https://idf.org/our-network/regions-members/europe/members/159-spain.html

https://worlddiabetesday.org/about/facts-figures/

https://idf.org/our-network/regions-members/europe/europe-news/72:12-october-world-sight-day.html

As a company, Liberty Seguros, one of Spain’s largest insurance companies, offers two excellent types of policies, National and Expat, for two very different markets.

Jennifer Cunningham Insurances is an Expat agent and I am very proud to work with Liberty with policies that have been designed specifically for the expat living in Spain – so the policies provided are more in line with what we are used to and give us a wider range of benefits than provided on the national policies.

Yes, of course they can be a little more expensive, as there are so many add on options and additional benefits. These policies are available in various languages, including English and Liberty provide English speaking services, wherever possible.

This stops you struggling to understand and purchase an insurance policy in Spanish. My company provides further support for you with a Claims Administrator to assist you with the claims process and I also have a Renewals Department, unlike many other companies who just do automatic renewals. My Renewals ladies will contact you each year with details and costs of your policy and should you need any amendments or updates to the policy, Renewals will be able to assist.

Liberty provides a comprehensive range of insurance products including, car, house, pet, commercial, community, life, accident and marine.

The house policy in particular is extremely special and can be tailor made for your particular requirements, with a selection of add-ons, one of which is accidental damage covering both your home and your garden, with a certain amount allocated for your garden and much more.

My company policy, with regards to vehicles, is to ensure all the seats have adequate cover. Should the worst happen, this gives more help and support to everyone in the vehicle and protects the driver/owner against claims from the passengers, which could go on for years if a passenger is badly injured.

The life policies are available and can be adapted for your own needs, from small policies to cover funeral costs, to full life policies and mortgage protection policies.

And don’t forget Jennifer Cunningham Insurances can also offer health insurance, travel insurance, and both funeral insurance and prepaid funeral plans.

Should you require more information or a quotation, please contact one of my offices, email info@jennifercunningham.net or visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net

The dark mornings and nights are now upon us, although the weather is still favourable, it is very much a case of wrapping up early then delayering as the day goes on, although I don't think it will be too much longer before the duvet comes back out.

My angel has enrolled to start her theory driving lessons, although it will be a while before she is of age to actually sit the exam. At least it gives her plenty of time to prepare and study and not feel rushed. I can see the next year being a frustrating one for me... after only one lesson in the classroom she has started criticizing my driving!!!!

I'm hoping to be able to find the time to start some Christmas shopping and take advantage of Black Friday, whether that be online or locally in the shops... I must say I prefer to physically see the item I'm buying.

Remembrance Day is coming up very soon so buy your poppy and wear it with pride... lest not forget. Children in Need is taking place on 18th November, an event that always brings tears to my eyes and makes you realise just how lucky we are.

Towards the end of November we have the FIFA World Cup starting, let's hope the boys can do us proud and follow in the footsteps of the Lionesses winning the Euros earlier this year. 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

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KEEP THE FAITH

The global inflation and UK domestic issues have sent global and UK stock markets into chaos.

With massive drops in the market indexes, which affects nearly everybody, everyday, volatility has become an ever-present force that investors have to manage. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that investors avoid making decisions motivated by fear. The importance of staying invested cannot be overstated, even as markets continue to decrease, although to a much lesser extent than previously.

Why should investors stay invested during turbulent times?

Put simply, because doing so can give you an edge when it comes to seizing new opportunities as prosperity returns. The history of the MSCI World Index since 1980 shows us that the best strategy is often just to leave your investment where it is during periods of crisis – the aftermath of each has seen markets exceed pre-crash values.

After all, everything from Black Monday in 1987 to the Greek debt crisis in 2009 and on to Covid times in early 2020 caused panic, yet their impact on the markets are barely remembered by many investors.

What has happened when markets have dropped drastically in the past?

In December 2018, equities fell by about 20%

because of concern about rising interest rates in the US and in Covid times by the same percentage. They subsequently bounced back within a few months, so if you’d sold investments, you would have missed out on the rebound.

Fears and opportunities

In March 2020 at the beginning of the Covid Pandemic, fear conquered two of my clients and they sold their investments against our advice. However, at the same time, one new client called me to take advantage of the situation and he found himself in a rising market only 4 months later and did very well for himself with his new stunning house. This is absolutely a true story!

The world keeps turning and we all will continue to need to wash, eat, transport ourselves, entertain ourselves and communicate. This will always drive our need for business and subsequent profits which are paid out in the form of dividends. Keep the faith, people.

David Diggle C.A.T. DipFA

TEL: 865 751 713 / 615 607 278 / 965 704 338

Seagate Wealth Management, Avenida Federico Garcia, 101, Benijofar, 03178, Alicante, South Costa Blanca

EMAIL: dave.diggle@seagatewealth.es

WEBSITE: www.seagatewealth.es

See advert below left for more information

“The market is sometimes irrational and panics about things, but every time that’s ever happened, it has always corrected itself.”

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See back pages for answers

UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PERMANENT AND NOT PERMANENT INSTALLATIONS OR WHY LIGHT GLAZED EXTENSIONS REQUIRE MAJOR LICENCES IN SPAIN (EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE SO EASY TO INSTALL)

A non-permanent fixture is an installation or building work that can be moved as a whole without dissembling or demolishing it.

Non-permanent fixtures are, for example light prefabricated dog kennels and parasols. Also, non-permanent installations can be considered those made with textile materials or other materials that decay over short periods (5-10 years).

Permanent fixtures are just the opposite: those that cannot be moved as a whole or don't decay in the short term. Permanent fixtures are glazed areas, aluminium roofs, or covered patios. They are not MEANT to be removed.

The material does not determine the nature of permanent or nonpermanent installation. Therefore a wooden roof is permanent, even being a light structure, same case with aluminium. However, an aluminium parasol or canopy with wheels will be considered non-permanent by the authorities.

Under these concepts, authorities assume any permanent extenson (regardless of its material except if textile) is illegal whenever it hasn't been installed without a proper major licence (and therefore subject to being fined or receiving a demolition order).

So, yes, in the Spanish system, all permanent extensions (even if done with light materials) require a major licence, regardless of their material, when:

-They are roofed, and therefore they increase the size of the property, or what's the same, they transform exterior space or semi-interior or interior space. So an uncovered pergola (wooden frame) doesn't increase the size, as it doesn't have a roof.

-They increase the number of rooms, and incorporated new uses to the property, even if detached from the property.

article supplied by Martinez de la Casa Architects

The minimum height in the Spanish system to be considered a room, or even a built area, is 1,5 meters. So a dog kennel is not considered a "built area" for the Spanish system.

- It affects the size you are paying in the rates bills or the description of the escrituras (title deeds): They imply that the escrituras and the rest of the property's legal paperwork become discrepant with the reality of the property or its use.

- It affects habitable conditions, ventilation and light: According to Spanish rules, all rooms (except bathrooms) must be ventilated and have direct access to natural light. Enclosures commonly cut off the unlimited natural light and ventilation, making the affected premises illegal.

- In any given extension, its material is disregarded by Spanish authorities, which will only focus on the added volume: The fact that these enclosures are done with a simple glazing or light materials such as aluminium or plastics is disregarded by Spanish authorities that only care about the size increase and the impact to habitation regulations.

Done without a proper licence, they will be subject to a fine and demolition/legalisation order if detected by the Spanish authorities. The cost of the fines will vary between town halls, size of the extension, etc., but can easily be over 300€ per m2. (eg a fine for a 10m2 shed, can easily reach 3,000€.) It also affects the selling process.

For the above reason and if not detected by the authorities, they will devalue the price of the property if it is being marketed or will become a bump in the marketing process. How to fix it (as of today) if you have installed these kinds of installations?

By obtaining a retrospective licence from any qualified Spanish Architect, the unlicensed extension cant be objected to by any authority, regardless of any future law changes.

What are the Conditions for obtaining a Retrospective Licence are:

• In Murcia, to obtain a Retrospective Licence, extensions must be 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.

No Retrospective Licences can be issued for extensions that have already received a fine or demolition order.

Currently, the process for obtaining a Retrospective Licence is straightforward. Once confirmed, Martinez de la Casa Architects will arrange an appointment to survey the pool/extension requiring only your NIE and current Title-Deeds. After the Retrospective Licence is stamped by the Official College of Architects or Notarised and delivered within 10 working days (guaranteed). Retrospective licences are issued by particular architects, and they are not notified to the Town Hall or any other authority, so there is no chance of being fined.

The price of a Pool Retrospective Licence (Certificate of Antiquity) is 229€ IVA incl. and for Extensions such as glazings, coverages, sheds, workshops or any other extensions is 326€ IVA incl. (All extensions in the property included).

Martinez de la Casa Architects is the Number One company for Building Certification, including Energy Performance Certificates (121€ inc IVA), Habitation/Occupation Licences and Retrospective Licences. 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.

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.

ARDILLA - SQUIRREL

BÚFALO - BUFFALO

CABALLO - HORSE

CAIMÁN - ALLIGATOR

CAMELLO - CAMEL

CANGURO - KANGAROO

CEBRA - ZEBRA

CHIMPANCÉ - CHIMPANZEE

DELFÍN - DOLPHIN

ELEFANTE - ELEPHANT

ESCORPIÓN - SCORPION

FLAMENCO - FLAMINGO

GIRAFA - GIRAFFE

HIPOPOTAMO - HIPPOPOTAMUS

LAGARTO - LIZARD

LEON - LION

LOMBRICES - EARTHWORMS

LORO - PARROT

MARIPOSA - BUTTERFLY

MONO - MONKEY

MUSARAÑA - SHREW

OSO - BEAR

PÁJARO - BIRD

PANTERA - PANTHER

PAVO - TURKEY

PELÍCANO - PELICAN

RATÓN - MOUSE TORTUGA - TURTLE / TORTOISE

See back pages for answers

Have a look at Jupiter

At the time I’m writing this, Jupiter is at its closest to Earth so it is a very good time to go out and have a look. If you go out on a clear night and look in the south-east, you will see an object that is brighter than all the others. You’ve found Jupiter, couldn't be easier.

So what? A bright point in the sky, who cares, well, you should. The huge gravity of our largest planet has swept up a lot of the rocks in the solar system, some of which would have hit the Earth, there are some people who think that without this protection, Earth might never have become habitable.

If you have some binoculars, you will be able to see a lot more than just using your eyes. First make yourself comfortable, get a chair or garden recliner, because binoculars can feel heavy when you hold them for a long time. Try to position yourself so your elbows are supported, relaxing will allow you to concentrate on what you are seeing. Some binoculars have a mount for a tripod, if you can use this it will really allow you to relax.

The first thing you will have noticed are 4 little points of light around the planet (unless one is hiding behind it) these are the Galilean moons named after Galileo who was the first to see them. They are called, Io, Europa, Callisto and Ganymede. If you look at them for a while, there relative positions will change as they orbit Jupiter, try and work out which is moving the fastest, this will be Europa the closest moon, the slowest will be Ganymede, the furthest away. There are many more moons around Jupiter, over 70 have been found, but you won’t see these so don’t worry about them.

If it’s a very clear night and you have a telescope you’ll see some of the markings on the surface, you are seeing the clouds in the atmosphere, and if you have a decent 'scope, you’ll see the famous great red spot, a vast storm system that’s been raging for many decades.

Jupiter is a violent place, these storms make a huge amount of radio noise that even amateur radio astronomers like me can pick up. It’s quite weird to listen to a storm from 600 million kilometres away.

The study of Jupiter has led to many advances in science, which I won’t bore you with here, but if you want to look up some interesting stuff you could search Commensurability in the Jovian system, you’ll start to learn all about the relationships of the planets and moons.

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

Charles Oates, Vega Baja Astronomy Group.

JOLLY'S BAR would like to say a massive thank you to all that turned up and showed their support for their Macmillan's fundraiser. Sarah Devonport and her helpers truly pulled out all the stops this year by managing to raise a whopping grand total of 11,428.13€ and has therefore given herself a huge target to beat in 2023.

It is safe to say that she is open to suggestions for sponsored events for next year, as in 2021 and 2022 this has massively bumped up the amounts raised. A huge thank you goes out to all the local businesses and people who donated prizes, as well as everyone who took part in, or sponsored the sky dive, and dug deep in their pockets on the day itself.

To all those who gave up their time to help out, Big FM and Emily Hullman performing live on the day..... thank you, thank you, thank you. There was a bit of a surprise on the day when Sarah was handed over 1,300€ from John Stones and the Bar 10 golf society. They held a charity golf day in honour of John's late wife Trina, which understandably made Sarah very emotional as the reality of how much this wonderful community really cares. Now it's time to rest and recharge the batteries before starting the planning for 2023.

Get to know Alicante’s Sagrada Familia

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

The geological formations of the Canelobre caves are considered to be of such beauty and magnitude that they have been compared to Barcelona’s magnificent Sagrada Familia church.

Dating back to the Jurassic period around 145 million years ago, these huge caves are located in Busot, in the interior of Alicante, on the northern slope of the Sierra Cabeçó d'Or.

They are believed to have been discovered by the Moors in the 10th century but were not well-known until the 19th century. During the Civil War, the Republican Army used them as an aircraft repair shop and in the mid-20th century, the Canelobre caves were opened to the public and became a major tourist attraction.

The huge interior of 80,000 square metres or more houses incredible rock formations creating stalactites, stalagmites and amazing columns. Some of these columns stand 70 metres high and resemble a cathedral. The outstanding feature is the so-called Sagrada Familia, a rock formation more than 25 metres high that reminds visitors of the enormous towers of Gaudí's unfinished church in Barcelona.

The acoustics in these caves are so good that they have become an unusual stage for musical performances.

While visiting the caves, it is worth wandering around the small town of Busot to visit the Mirador Del Cabeço D'or for far-reaching views and the Racó de les Coves artistic mural. Created by artist Anna Klimowicz, it has been constructed with recycled materials to recreate the stalagmites and stalactites of the Canelobre caves.

Mediterranean flower to boost your health

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

Hibiscus plants are widely seen on balconies and gardens throughout the Costa Blanca. But did you know the flowers are amazingly good for your health?

It is well known that having a warm drink a night helps us sleep better. If you swap your usual bedtime drink for hibiscus tea, not only will it help you sleep but it can also help you lose weight.

The hibiscus plant has diuretic effects and helps to eliminate toxins. In addition, hibiscus hinders the storage of body fat, especially around the abdomen area.

Preparing an infusion of hibiscus to lose weight is simple. Put three dried flowers in a saucepan, add a glass of water and let it boil for 5 minutes. Then remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few more minutes. Strain the mixture and the infusion is ready to drink.

You can also buy hibiscus tea at many supermarkets, including Mercadona, and specialist tea stores.

The hibiscus plant is also rich in antioxidants including beta-carotene and vitamin C, which can help fight disease. Hibiscus may also have anti-inflammatory properties and can help in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.

It is safe to drink one cup of hibiscus tea a day but it is advisable to talk with your doctor first if you are on other medications.

The Christmas Shop Spain ….the only truly dedicated Christmas shop in Spain right on our doorstep with everything for Christmas under one roof. If you haven’t been to the Christmas shop you won’t know about over 5000 Christmas items that make you feel like you have just walked into Santa's Grotto.

Fibre optic trees, villages, LED and solar lighting, outside signs and inflatables, cake decorations, Santa suits, silly hats, crackers, stocking fillers and decorations in 20 different colour schemes. The ‘Forever Christmas’ range includes amazing one offs that you won’t see in anyone else’s home, and there's a section with over 50 items all for 1€. The card section has the largest range of Christmas Cards on the Costas and something for everyone.

Santa will be visiting the store bringing gifts galore for the kids on Sunday 27th November and it will be a fabulous day with the Santa Express giving a short tour of the area. This is always such a popular event and good turnout so make sure you get your little ones there early.

A 10% discount is being offered on all your purchases with this advert or by mentioning QFocus (except cards and bucket items) providing a great way to give you even more saving on your spending or even allow you to indulge a bit more!!!

The Elves at The Christmas Shop thank you all for your continued support year after year and send all their love and hope you keep safe.

The Christmas Shop can be found on the CV905 between Torrevieja and Quesada at the Lakeside Commercial Centre, San Luis. Or find them on Facebook 'The Christmas Shop Spain'. For more information call Lucy on 672 544 744 or see their advert below.

Recipes by Pushpa from the Spice Hut

- Spicy fish cakes

Ingredients

100g wholemeal bread crumbs

600gms cooked fish

350gms of mashed potatoes

Cup of spring onion, finely chopped 2 eggs, beaten Salt as required Pepper as required

1 tspn Garlic paste

1 tspn Ginger paste

1 juice of one lemon

Grated lemon zest as required

1/2 tspn Chilli flakes

Method

Mash the fish, add the mashed potato, lemon juice, zest, finely chopped spring onion, garlic and ginger paste, chilli flakes, salt and pepper.

Make flat cakes, shaped like burgers and place them on a tray. Cling film the tray and put in fridge for an hour.

Beat the egg, to use to dip the fish cakes. Spread the breadcrumbs on a flat plate.

Fully dip the fish cakes into the egg mix, then cover them fully with breadcrumbs.

Heat some oil in a shallow frying pan, add the fish cakes individually and shallow fry on medium heat until golden.

Drain on paper towels.

Serve with lemon slices and fresh salad.

Enjoy.

The

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.

Discover Costa Blanca fiestas and traditions

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

Spain is renowned for its incredible fiestas from the Moors and Christians to hogueras. Each fiesta is accompanied by spectacular costumes, music and fireworks.

From Friday November 4 to Sunday November 6, visitors can find out about these traditions at the 27th National Fair of Popular Festivals, EXPOFIESTA, being held at the IFA centre in Alicante, next to the airport.

Dance groups, street theatre, floats, Moorish and Christian troupes, regional costumes, music bands and firework specialists will be on hand for visitors to find out more about the local fiestas - under one roof. Various groups will also put on shows and parades to showcase their talent during the weekend.

The fair is open from 10.30am to 9pm Friday and Saturday. On Sunday the hours are from 10.30am to 5pm.

The following weekend the IFA centre will host the Alicante Tattoo Convention featuring more than 100 tattoo artists from all over Spain. The artists will offer live demonstrations and take part in daily competitions.

Other activities include Polynesian dances, body painting demonstrations, and other competitions, such as Miss & Mister Tattoo, in which both men and women can compete to proudly show off their tattoos.

The Tattoo Convention is being held from Friday November 11 to Sunday November 13.

Spot the 13 differences(answers in the classified pages)

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Crescendo International Choir

Concert with Royal British Legion Band in Benidorm

Crescendo International Choir gave a well-received concert with the Royal British Legion Concert Band Saturday October 15 at Don Pancho Hotel in Benidorm. The concert was a fundraiser for the RBL Poppy Appeal and to support the band itself. Other performers at the event included the Jersey Boys and Steve Spit.

On November 11, Crescendo Choir will be joining the RBL Band to perform in the church by Plaza de Constitution in Torrevieja for a Poppy Day remembrance service in the morning. In December, two Crescendo and RBL concerts are planned. One will be held Friday, December 9 in the San Fulgencio Teatro while on Friday December 15, both groups will perform Christmas music together in the evening at the main plaza in Torrevieja.

In addition, Crescendo International Choir plans at least three public concerts of its own. The first will take place at Salt Church in Los Montesinos on November 26 at 1800. Concerts are also planned for Saturday evening, December 10 at the Catholic Church in Benijofar as well as Saturday December 17 at La Siesta Church in Torrevieja.

If interested in joining Crescendo, see the Crescendo website at crescendo-choir.com. The choir would be delighted to have more male singers, especially basses. The choir includes sopranos, altos, tenors and basses. The group sings a variety of songs ranging from musicals to spirituals, from pop to classical, in both English and Spanish. Rehearsals take place at Rincon de Miguel Restaurant in Los Montesinos Mondays between 17:45 to 20:00. All singers are welcome!

In addition, Friends of Crescendo concert tickets are now on sale for a Monday December 12 concert at 1830 at Rincon de Miguel restaurant. Tickets are available from choir members, the Benijofar post office or Miguel’s restaurant on Monday evenings.

4,620€ raised for DEBRA

Wow what a night at the XII Butterfly Charity Ball in aid of DEBRA, the Butterfly Children Charity held recently at La Marina Camping & Resort, organised by Mary Chambers & Sue Rogers. After 2 years of restrictions this glittering event is back on track with all the ladies looking very glamorous in their evening dresses and the gentlemen looking dapper in their dinner suits.

The event was hosted by Tommy Rogers and attended by 140 guests who enjoyed a Poolside Cava reception followed by a three course meal in the La Marina Restaurant and top entertainment courtesy of Pete Faux & Paula Molina.

Tommy Rogers our host, helped raise the amazing amount of 4,620€ with the main prize of the evening being a stay at the fabulous La Finca Resort Hotel won by Mike & Val Rose. With many other prizes won such as Hampers, Molinex Maxichef, Marina Senses Spa & Wellness vouchers and vouchers donated by various local business including Hair & Beauty Salons, Restaurants, and other great prizes.

Our auction allowed our guests to bid for an Original Painting by local artist Stewart Swallow, Green Fees from Las Colinas Golf & Country Club, a stay at La Marina Camping & Resort and Hotel vouchers from Sunset Beach Club, Benalmadena, and the Luxury Ananta Villa Padierna Hotel Marbella.

PPS Glass Curtains kindly sponsored the fabulous Paula Molina who created such an amazing atmosphere as the dance floor was rocking all night. Christine Worthy at Wedding Planner Spain kindly sponsored and provided the table decorations for the event.

The Butterfly Children Charity would like to thank everyone who worked extremely hard behind the scenes to make this event such a success, Tommy Rogers who continues to Compere the event, all the local business from La Marina down to the Costa del Sol who continue to donate so generously with fabulous prizes, and Cristina, Fabian, Ronald and their team at La Marina Camping & Resort for all their hard work and for looking after all our guests. We could not raise this amazing amount of money without our guests who attend this event and who give so very generously to our Charity. We thank you all and we are extremely grateful for your continued support of this event and look forward to seeing you all again very soon. Next year’s Butterfly Charity Ball will be celebrating the Charity's 30th Anniversary, if you would like to attend this event, please contact Mary Chambers on 616 076 072 or via email at lamarina@debra.es.

ACTS are carrying out their final preparation for, 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. Tickets for this hysterical play are available by WhatsApp message to 602 683 925 or visit their website https://www.acts.website/ for the full list of ticket outlets.

Rojales Pantomime Group: Tickets are here....oh yes they are. The long awaited tickets for our next pantomime ‘Treasure Island’ at The Cardinal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio, on 1 & 2 December at 7.15pm and 3 Dec at 2.15pm are now on sale at the following outlets: - Card Place, Benimar; Post Room, Benijofar; Post Box, Doña Pepa; Post Box, Entre Naranjos; Cards and More, La Marina; Carpet Heaven, Los Montesinos; Bargain Books, San Miguel; Help Vega Baja, San Miguel; Quesada Computers, Quesada. Don’t miss this very funny show, get your tickets now. To reserve tickets email voreilly16@googlemail.com.

Studio 32 are putting together the final touches for their new show ‘A Night on Broadway’, on 10, 11 & 12 Nov at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio. It is a celebration of award winning Broadway musicals that Studio32 have produced over the past 8 years. If you would like further information or you would like to book tickets please visit their website www.studiothirtytwo.org to book tickets online, email tickets@studiothirtytwo.org or call 679 062 272. They are always looking for enthusiastic people to join their group who can, or have the aspirations to sing, dance and act especially males, or if you would like to participate working behind the scenes, full training will be given. They also need people who have experience working with costumes.

The Costa Blanca Singers: Since the launch of The Costa Blanca Singers in September, membership has increased weekly as news travels from enthusiastic singers. There is amazing talent within the group. We meet every Wednesday 2pm – 4pm. Arrive by 1.45pm to check in. Warm up begins at 2pm. Where? The Social Centre, La Marina urbanizacion (behind the medical centre). You are welcome to just turn up or contact us first. No auditions required and your experience or lack of it, is equally welcome. Bring along your passion to enrich your life and that of others. All nationalities are welcome. We sing in English. Additional information, 624 144 703, janetford@btinternet.com or 641 992 164.

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

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Founded by Benny Davis in 2007

New Climate Change Law

With the Climate Change Law coming into force from 01/01/2023, the way in which we understand the use of vehicles in Spain will change.

Meaning that, from that date, it will be mandatory for cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants, to have low emissions zones (ZBE) in operation, where some vehicles will not be able to travel with the same freedom. Towns with over 20.000 residents will have to implement their low emissions areas (green zones). Only hybrid (18.4% of total vehicles) and electric cars (3.9% of the total) will not have restrictions, while combustion vehicles (with no label, B label or C label) will face certain restrictions.

ZBE sign

This stands for "Zonas de Baja Emisión" which means "Low Emission Areas" and all vehicles driving on these roads must display the low emissions stickers. There will be alternative routes for those vehicles affected by the restrictions or that don't have the sticker. 200 euros fines have been established for infringements. Why are low emission zones implemented in cities? Emissions caused by traffic are, to this day, one of the main sources of pollution in urban areas, seriously compromising air quality. Also, it should not be forgotten that this factor is behind thousands of premature deaths and health problems. For more information; https://n332.es/low-emission-zones-zbe/

Cars' Emission Stickers or Environmental Badges.

On the DGT website, the Traffic Department has all the information about the different badges and on this link, you can find which sticker your vehicle must display; https://sede.dgt.gob.es/es/vehiculos/distintivo-ambiental/

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.

Road Safety is a thing for everyone. Drive responsibly!

our oroscope

ARIES

You are finding that everything gets on your nerves, you are arguing with everyone and are irritable all the time. Try not to bicker with family as you need their support more than ever now to help you get through this difficult time.

TAURUS

Work on strengthening relationships with friends and colleagues as you really can give them more of your time than you have been giving of late. You know it has been a bit one sided so face it and change it - they deserve it.

GEMINI

You are in full on planning mode to make it to the end of the year in the easiest and most organised way possible. With so much coming up you need to keep your eye on the ball.

CANCER

Something has really piqued your interest and you can’t get it off your mind. Don’t jump in and commit yourself - find out more and give it some thought before going forward.

LEO

Family continues to take up a lot of your time and not always in a good way. Try to understand that they are not as decisive as you are and need the extra time before committing. Give them the space they need, rushing them will actually slow things down.

VIRGO

Planning at work will give you the goals for the future that not only you need, but the team need as well. Make sure they are realistic and not too far reaching or they will just lead to disappointment.

LIBRA

You are going to get to the end of the year with unresolved issues unless you sit down and deal with them. Stop putting things off that you know are only going to get worse if not dealt with straight away. Once you get started you will surprise yourself just how quickly you get things done.

SCORPIO

Getting together and sharing the responsibilities is actually starting to work. It has taken a long time but everyone finally seems to be coming on board with the idea. You will need to keep the momentum going as it can easily start to unravel.

SAGITTARIUS

Stop counting down the days until the end of the year, there is still lots to do and enjoy before then. By wishing your time away you will miss out on so much. Enjoy every moment as much as you can.

CAPRICORN

Open up your mind to the suggestions and ideas that you are put to you and really give them some thought rather than just ignoring them. People offer their advice and knowledge to try to help you, not annoy you.

AQUARIUS

Look towards the future and start to put a long term plan into motion now. You might not know where you want to end up but you know you don’t want to continue like this forever. If others are going to be included in this, then let them know sooner rather than later.

PISCES

You are ready for a break as things have been fairly intense lately. Delegate if needs be in order that everything is done in time for the holidays. This way you can really relax without worrying about anything left unfinished.

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

This is the gorgeous Cookie, who is a 4 year old Mastin x. She loves her walks and is good on the lead, likes being made a fuss of, lots of cuddles and is very playful. Can anyone give Cookie her forever home. Call or Whatsapp K9 on 711 082 807 or k9clubinfo@gmail.com or K9 Facebook.

Cinders is around 7 weeks old and looking for a forever home. She has been in a foster home being socialised with people and dogs and is now on solids and using her litter tray. Call: 645 469 253, visit our web www.petsinspain.com or email info@petsinspain.com

SUPPORT

Across: 1 Snag, 4 Boston, 8 Clowns, 9 Damson, 10 Demolish, 11 Core, 12 Meets, 13 Enemy, 17 Spew, 19 Exorcise, 20 Twilit, 21 Isobar, 22 Trashy, 23 Last.

Down: 2 New South Wales, 3 Gossip, 4 Buddha, 5 Semiconscious, 6 Odour, 7 Fleece, 14 Mislay, 15 Gentry, 16 Social,