October 2015

October 2015

Newsletter

of the International Women’s Club in Sofia

El Pilar Festival Breast Cancer Awareness Month Stallholders Meeting at the Polish Embassy

Next Monthly Coffee Morning: Tuesday, 3rd November, 10.30am at Matti-d

17, Patriarh Evtimiy blvd., Sofia 1142 +359 2 819 20 20; +359 882 600 600 www.UES.bg

At Unique Estates we know how confusing moving to a new place could be, especially, if that is a foreign country with its peculiar set of regulations, customs, understandings and traditions.

Let us save your time and money!

Kambanite area, elegant house in a gated compound, 250 sqm., three bedrooms, three bathrooms, landscaped yard 420 sqm., two parking places.

Ref.ID 5506 Rent: € 2 300

Kambanite area, spacious furnished house, 750 sqm., five bedrooms, four bathrooms, winter garden, landscaped yard 1 200 sqm., garage for 4 cars.

Ref.ID 5689 Rent: € 2 500

Ivan Vazov area, unique, furnished penthouse with stunning views, 450 sqm., three bedrooms, three bathrooms, landscaped terraces and winter garden, underground parking place.

Ref.ID 5769 Rent: € 2 700

Iztok area, spacious furnished apartment, 220 sqm., three bedrooms, living room with dining area, two bathrooms, four terraces, BBQ, garage.

Ref.ID 5788 Rent: € 1 400

Simeonovo area, cozy house, 245 sqm., three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open space kitchen, living room with dining area, landscaped yard 930 sqm.

Ref.ID 2341 Rent: € 2 650

Doctor’s garden area, exclusive, furnished apartment in an aristocratic building, 168 sqm., two bedrooms, spacious living room, dining room, two bathrooms, central heating.

Ref.ID 5571 Rent: € 2 200

Doctor’s garden area, luxury furnished apartment in a prestigious area, 111 sqm., two bedrooms, living room with office space, central heating.

Ref.ID 5595 Rent: € 1 300

Krastova vada area, stylishly furnished apartment in a gated compound, 100 sqm., two bedrooms, two bathrooms, living room with dining area.

Ref.ID 5398 Rent: € 900

Letter from the President

Dear IWC ladies, Here we are in October already, the year is moving swiftly on. We have already had the first stallholders’ meeting for this year’s bazaar. Held at the Polish Embassy, curtesy of the wife of the Polish Ambassador, Mrs Aldona Krajewska, it was very well attended with over 80 people from 35 different countries, charities and supporters of the bazaar. The bazaar team have worked very hard over the summer and this could be seen in the new improved stallholders’ pack, clear registration forms and new ways to participate. If you are new to the club or the bazaar and want to know how you can help please talk to Toi and her team.

The quarterly Charity Committee Meeting was held in September and high on the agenda was the constitution. The Charity Foundation has a completely separate Constitution from the club, and is now under review and will continue to be looked at in the coming months. The Charity Foundation Constitution has been placed on the website for your information, if you are interested in participating in the review, please contact Maria Ilieva to discuss this further.

We also have a very dedicated charity team who make visits to our charity projects every month, these visits are open to all members, if you would like to participate in these events Maria and her team will be very happy to see you!

October is the International month of Breast Cancer Awareness, and in tune with this our coffee morning will be a pink affair! Please join in by wearing pink to the coffee morning to show our solidarity in fighting this terrible disease. We will once again have the lovely ladies from The Bra Clinic with information and beautiful bras!

We have another month packed with events, and we continue to streamline the process of signing up, paying for events and keeping you informed, please check out the procedure for events at the sign up table, please also talk to Becky if you would like to host an event or have an idea for an activity group. We all appreciate our members who open up their homes, to show us their food, culture and traditions, so please all be mindful of this and give each other your warm respect when accepting invitations to our fellow members’ homes.

Have a lovely October, stay warm and dry and take care!

Kind regards,

Angela Bird

Permanent and Waterproof PRINT on LIVE ROSES

Cover image: "Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and the Ebro River, Zaragoza" by Jiuguang Wang - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 es via Commons - https://commons.wikimedia.org.

3

IWC Executive Board 2015-2016 President Angela Bird 0879 119 152 president@iwc-sofia.org

Charity Chairperson Maria Ilieva 0878 300 561/ 0879 119 154 charity@iwc-sofia.org

Treasurer Kelsa L. Smith-Mouskourova 0879 506 800 treasurer@iwc-sofia.org

Vice-President Becky Ruth Faber 0879 119 150 firstvp@iwc-sofia.org

Bazaar Coordinator Toi Castelló i Reñé 0879 506 799 charitybazaar@iwc-sofia.org

Office Manager/Newsletter Editor: office@iwc-sofia.org admin@iwc-sofia.org “Like” IWC on Facebook and check tel.: 02 951 6117 our website www.iwc-sofia.org (please call before visiting)

International Women’s Club Business Park Sofia, Building 11A, 3rd floor

Club policy Smoking Please note that all IWC Coffee Mornings are non-smoking.

Bulgarian Applicants Unfortunately, due to a lack of available spaces, new Bulgarian applicants will be added to the waiting list, until further notice Language Don’t let a lack of fluency in English keep you from attending the monthly coffee mornings and other club activities. Many of our members speak other languages. Remember, we are an international club, and we are here to support you. You’re welcome at any time.

Suggestion Box The suggestion box is always available at the members’ sign-in table. Feel free to write your ideas, concerns, complaints, and suggestions to the IWC Board and drop them in the box. Because you’re important to us, we want to hear from you.

IWC Visitors Policy The IWC doors are open to visitors throughout the year. Visitors are welcome to attend up to two coffee mornings and two activities prior to applying for membership. A 15 BGN fee is payable upon registration at the sign-in table during the coffee morning. For more information, please contact the Member-ship Coordinator at office@iwc-sofia.org.

Events Charges All events are available to fully paid up members of the IWC. Where there is a cost involved, it will be kept to the very minimum.

Guests will be able to attend the events that are specified at the time. Not all events will be open to guests. Events that are open to guests will also carry a ‘guest’ surcharge as follows:

Monthly Events 1.Written Permission must be requested from the Board a minimum of 2 weeks prior to event; 2. The partnering organisation/company should be in good standing in the community; 3. The event should seek to pursue the goals of the IWC; 4. No third-party usage will be permitted. An agreement will be signed between IWC and partner organisation; 5. The Logo may be used only for the agreed event and for specified time period.

Free monthly events are free to guests. Events costing under 20BGN, there is an additional charge of 5BGN. Events costing 21BGN or more, there is an additional charge of 50%.

Monthly Activity Groups Monthly activity groups are free and any charge for guests will be at the discretion of the organiser of the group, a charge may be added for instance if a guest regularly frequents one of these activities without becoming a member.

A deposit is required from all members and guests attending an event with a cost involved. This deposit will be forfeited in the case of non attendance.

Event

IWC Member

Guest

Free Monthly Event

Free

Free

Free Activity Group Event

Free

Paid*

Paid Monthly Event

5-20BGN

+5BGN

Paid Monthly Event

21BGN+

+50%

Member only Event

Open

Closed

*Charge for guests at the discretion of the activity group organiser with a min. sum of 10 BGN. Use of IWC Logo The Board has established the following policy for the use of the IWC logo and brand name. In order to prevent any misuse.

Guidelines for Paid Advertisement 1. Priority for any vacant advertising spaces will be given first to IWC members, then to outside advertisers.

2. Advertisers are welcome to run or extend their advertisements for a period of six months. After that time, if there is a waiting list for advertisements of that size, the situation will be reviewed, and priority for available spaces will be given to (a) IWC members; (b) new advertisers; (c) existing advertisers. The same order of priority will apply to smaller ad space that may become available.

3. There is no waiting list for advertisements of a given size, the current advertiser may extend their advertisement for the contract period of their choice.

4. These guidelines may be revised at any time with the agreement of the IWC Board.

5. Paid advertisers are not endorsed by the IWC.

Rules For Announcements From Members 1. Advertisements will be run in two consecutive issues. If the member sends a request to run the advertisement again, it will be extended for a further two issues. After that, the advertisement will be removed. If the member still wishes to include the advertisement after that time, the request will be considered, but placement is not guaranteed.

2. Advertisements must be submitted by members. Members may not submit ads for non-members (e.g., for a friend who is selling a car, etc.).

3. Members may not submit recommendations for businesses. These recommendations may be submitted to the IWC Go To Guide. Businesses are also welcome to purchase advertising in the newsletter.

4.Recommendations for individuals engaged in business (e.g., dentists, hairdressers, etc.) will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Board.

5. Final discretion as to whether to include an announcement rests with the Newsletter Editor.

4

We ask members to send all announcements for the newsletter via e-mail. The size of ads should not exceed a single paragraph of five lines. The IWC board is not responsible for the accuracy of the information provided in these announcements.

Please send your contributions to office@iwc-sofia.org not later than the 15th of the month.

El Pilar Festival

Dear IWC Members,

cing that you’re unlikely to have come across is the Jota.

This dance can be traced back to the 1600s although it has changed somewhat from its original form. You can join in the street celebrations and learn to dance the jota with the locals.

12th

This month, on October, we have our National Day, where we celebrate the “Dia de la Hispanidad”, the celebration of Columbu’s discovery of the Americas. But it is also “el Dia de Nuestra Señora del Pilar”, the Pilar Festival, in Zaragoza (Aragón).

Another novelty is the procession of the giants and big heads (gigantes y cabezudos) in which huge papier mache figures join the carnival on the street and mingle with the crowds. Bull fighting is another aspect of this celebration because, as with many Spanish gatherings, the bull must make his appearance. He is quite a distinguished part of the Spanish history so a celebration without him wouldn’t be quite the same. Plays and theatre are another big part of this celebration often attracting famous actors and actresses who can often be spotted entertaining the crowds. The one act plays are particularly enjoyable.

During the week leading up to this official date, Zaragoza comes alive with music, parades, flowers and theatre in honour of the Virgin of Pilar. The female patron saint of Spain is honoured with an abundance of flowers as the history and culture of Spain is remembered and celebrated. Trails of roses, lilies, orchids and gladiolus wind their way to the Plaza de Pilar as an offering to the Virgin.

The reason for this internationally recognized festival has its origins back in 40 AD when St James the Apostle came to this area to spread Christianity to the mostly Pagan population. On his journey in Aragonese territory, on the eve of January 2nd, the Virgin Mary is supposed to have appeared to him on a marble pillar and asked him to build a church on the land upon which he was standing.

Initially a chapel was built around the ‘pilar’ followed by ever grander churches over the centuries. Today the magnificent Basilica del Pilar which was designed in 1681 stands on this spot. Major alterations took place in the 18th century and the Basilica’s towers weren’t completed until the 20th century.

If you’re going to be in Zaragoza for the week leading up to the Pilar festival then don’t forget to take your party clothes. Although the official date of the Pilar Festival is October 12th it lasts for around nine days with the evenings centred on an area of town known as “El Tubo” which is packed with bars and revellers. You should also pay a nighttime visit to the Paseo de los Bearneses and enjoy its spectacularly lit fountain. Heavenly music compliments the lights and adjoining neighbourhoods join in with their own fireworks.

Think about it, maybe for your holidays next year.?

The pillar (Pilar) on which the Virgin descended is displayed inside the Holy Chapel (Capilla Santa) of the Basilica. This attracts hundreds of pilgrims every day who arrive to kiss a small piece of the pillar which isn’t protected.

Enjoy it!

Toi Castelló i Reñé

During this wonderful celebration of culture and history, music and dance take to the streets. The music is not bound by one particular kind and you will hear reggae, jazz, pop, rock and folk to name but a few. Spontaneous flamenco dancing is common but a distinctive form of dan5

October important dates The negotiations over a State Treaty putting an end to this occupation could finally be concluded in the spring of 1955: the Austrian State Treaty was signed on 15 May 1955 in Vienna's Schloß Belvedere and entered into force on July 27, 1955.

October 26 marks the day that followed the day on which the last remaining foreign troops left Austrian territory; therefore, October 26 is de facto the first day on which Austria had regained its status as an independent and sovereign state.

26th October, Austrian National Day The celebration of October 26 as the Austrian National Day dates back to the birth of the 2nd Republic after WW II. After the end of the War, Austria was occupied by the four Allied forces (Soviet Union, United States, Great Britain, and France), who divided the country into four zones. An Austrian government was democratically elected with the consent of the Allied forces, but every legislative regulation or political action still required their consent.

During 1916 Masaryk, Edvard Beneš and MR Štefánik established what was later called the Czechoslovak national council; it became the main force in the anti-Austrian resistance. Domestic politicians appeared on the scene with the Three Kings' declaration at the start of January 1918. The declaration was launched with a coordinated call for independence both at home and abroad.

One of the hottest issues within the framework of the declaration and maintenance of independence was the supplying of the Austrian military with food exported from Bohemia and Moravia. The agricultural council led by Antonín Švehla attempted to keep and hide as much supplies as possible.

In the early hours of October 28, 1918 the agricultural council, in the name of the National Committee, took over the cereal institute in order to prevent the transport of grain to the front. This was followed by the dissemination of information recognising Austro-Hungary's peace conditions. That evening the National Committee issued the first law on the establishment of an independent state.

The Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic went their separate ways after 1 January 1993, an event sometimes called the Velvet Divorce. Slovakia has remained a close partner with the Czech Republic. Both countries cooperate with Hungary and Poland in the Visegrád Group.

28th October, Czechoslovak independence Czechoslovak independence was declared on Wenceslas Square on October 28, 1918, beginning a new era for two nations which had previously been part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The majority of Czech society did not regard the Austro-Hungarian state as their own. However, the outbreak of the First World War in 1914 put national questions within the multi-national Austro-Hungary Empire on the backburner. The only real "war against a central power" was carried out by Czech exiles led by TG Masaryk and a small circle of supporters.

29th October, Republic Day in Turkey Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı) is a national holiday in Turkey, always celebrated on 29 October. The afternoon of 28 October is also a holiday. The holiday commemorates the proclamation of the Turkish republic in 29 October 1923.

Following the defeat of the Ottomans in World War I, the allies had occupied Turkey as part of the partitioning of the Ottoman Empire. An uprising of Turkish nationalists led to the Turkish war of independence (1919 -1923). The allies left Turkish regions in July 1923.

Mustafa Kemal, the leader of the Turkish troops was named the first president on 29 October 1923 when the Turkish republic was proclaimed in the new capital, Ankara. In 1934, Kemal was given the title Atatürk, which means 'Father of the Turks'.

A republican constitution was adopted the following April. Islam remained the state religion for several years, though this was eventually removed from the constitution in April 1928, making Turkey a secular state. Turkey remained a single party government until 1945. http://www.austria.org, www.timeanddate.com, Wikipedia.org, www.radio.cz

6

Breast Cancer Awareness Month The Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marked in countries across the world every October, helps to increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection and treatment as well as palliative care of this disease.

There are about 1.38 million new cases and 458 000 deaths from breast cancer each year (IARC Globocan, 2008). Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer in women worldwide, both in the developed and developing countries. In low- and middle-income countries the incidence has been rising up steadily in the last years due to increase in life expectancy, increase urbanization and adoption of western lifestyles.

Currently there is not sufficient knowledge on the causes of breast cancer, therefore, early detection of the disease remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control. When breast cancer is detected early, and if adequate diagnosis and treatment are available, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured. If detected late, however, curative treatment is often no longer an option. In such cases, palliative care to relief the suffering of patients and their families is needed.

The majority of deaths (269 000) occur in low- and middle-income countries, where most women with breast cancer are diagnosed in late stages due mainly to lack of awareness on early detection and barriers to health services. WHO promotes comprehensive breast cancer control programmes as part of national cancer control plans.

The recommended early detection strategies for low- and middle-income countries are awareness of early signs and symptoms and screening by clinical breast examination in demonstration areas. Mammography screening is very costly and is feasible only in countries with good health infrastructure that can afford a long-term programme.

Cancer prevention At least one-third of all cancer cases are preventable. Prevention offers the most cost-effective long-term strategy for the control of cancer.

Tobacco

Tobacco use is the single greatest avoidable risk factor for cancer mortality worldwide, causing an estimated 22% of cancer deaths per year. In 2004, 1.6 million of the 7.4 million cancer deaths were due to tobacco use.

Tobacco smoking causes many types of cancer, including cancers of the lung, oesophagus, larynx (voice box), mouth, throat, kidney, bladder, pancreas, stomach and cervix. About 70% of the lung cancer burden can be attributed to smoking alone. Second-hand smoke (SHS), also known as environmental tobacco smoke, has been proven to cause lung cancer in nonsmoking adults. Smokeless tobacco (also called oral tobacco, chewing tobacco or snuff) causes oral, oesophageal and pancreatic cancer.

Physical inactivity, dietary factors, obesity and being overweight

Dietary modification is another important approach to cancer control. There is a link between overweight and obesity to many types of cancer such as oesophagus, colorectum, breast, endometrium and kidney. Diets high in fruits and vegetables may have a protective effect against many cancers. Conversely, excess consumption of red and preserved meat may be associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. In addition, healthy eating habits that prevent the development of diet-associated cancers will also lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Regular physical activity and the maintenance of a healthy body weight, along with a healthy diet, will considerably reduce cancer risk. National policies and programmes should be implemented to raise awareness and reduce exposure to cancer risk factors, and to ensure that people are provided with the information and support they need to adopt healthy lifestyles.

Alcohol use

Alcohol use is a risk factor for many cancer types including cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, oesophagus, liver, colorectum and breast. Risk of cancer increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. The risk from heavy drinking for several cancer types (e.g. oral cavity, pharynx, larynx and oesophagus) substantially increases if the person is also a heavy smoker.

7

Attributable fractions vary between men and women for certain types of alcohol-related cancer, mainly because of differences in average levels of consumption. For example, 22% of mouth and oropharynx cancers in men are attributable to alcohol whereas in women the attributable burden drops to 9%. A similar sex difference exists for oesophageal and liver cancers (Rehm et al., 2004).

Infections

Infectious agents are responsible for almost 22% of cancer deaths in the developing world and 6% in industrialized countries. Viral hepatitis B and C cause cancer of the liver; human papilloma virus infection causes cervical cancer; the bacterium Helicobacter pylori increases the risk of stomach cancer. In some countries the parasitic infection schistosomiasis increases the risk of bladder cancer and in other countries the liver fluke increases the risk of cholangiocarcinoma of the bile ducts. Preventive measures include vaccination and prevention of infection and infestation.

Environmental pollution

Environmental pollution of air, water and soil with carcinogenic chemicals accounts for 1–4% of all cancers (IARC/WHO, 2003). Exposure to carcinogenic chemicals in the environment can occur through drinking water or pollution of indoor and ambient air.

In Bangladesh, 5–10% of all cancer deaths in an arsenic-contaminated region were attributable to arsenic exposure (Smith, Lingas & Rahman, 2000). Exposure to carcinogens also occurs via the contamination of food by chemicals, such as aflatoxins or dioxins. Indoor air pollution from coal fires doubles the risk of lung cancer, particularly among non-smoking women (Smith, Mehta & Feuz, 2004). Worldwide, indoor air pollution from domestic coal fires is responsible for approximately 1.5% of all lung cancer deaths. Coal use in households is particularly widespread in Asia.

Occupational carcinogens

More than 40 agents, mixtures and exposure circumstances in the working environment are carcinogenic to humans and are classified as occupational carcinogens (Siemiatycki et al., 2004). That occupational carcinogens are causally related to cancer of the lung, bladder, larynx and skin, leukaemia and nasopharyngeal cancer is well documented. Mesothelioma (cancer of the outer lining of the lung or chest cavity) is to a large extent caused by work-related exposure to asbestos.

Occupational cancers are concentrated among specific groups of the working population, for whom the risk of developing a particular form of cancer may be much higher than for the general population. About 20–30% of the male and 5–20% of the female working-age population (people aged 15–64 years) may have been exposed to lung carcinogens during their working lives, accounting for about 10% of lung cancers worldwide. About 2% of leukaemia cases worldwide are attributable to occupational exposures.

Radiation

Ionizing radiation is carcinogenic to humans. Knowledge on radiation risk has been mainly acquired from epidemiological studies of the Japanese A-bomb survivors as well as from studies of medical and occupational radiation exposure cohorts. Ionizing radiation can induce leukaemia and a number of solid tumours, with higher risks at young age at exposure.

Residential exposure to radon gas from soil and building materials is estimated to cause between 3% and 14% of all lung cancers, making it the second cause of lung cancer after tobacco smoke. Radon levels in homes can be reduced by improving the ventilation and sealing floors and walls. Ionizing radiation is an essential diagnostic and therapeutic tool. To guarantee that benefits exceed potential radiation risks radiological medical procedures should be appropriately prescribed and properly performed, to reduce unnecessary radiation doses, particularly in children.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and in particular solar radiation, is carcinogenic to humans, causing all major types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma. Globally in 2000, over 200 000 cases of melanoma were diagnosed and there were 65 000 melanoma-associated deaths.

Avoiding excessive exposure, use of sunscreen and protective clothing are effective preventive measures. UVemitting tanning devices are now also classified as carcinogenic to humans based on their association with skin and ocular melanoma cancers.

8

Charity update Dear ladies,

The IWC Charity supported the Orphan Foundation and their 25th anniversary by donating funds for two additional scholarships. A very talented guitar player, currently studding at the National Academy of Music, and a lovely girl from one of the most prestigious high schools in Sofia, received the scholarships. Thanks to this financial support they will have enough money for school year 2015-2016.

19th,

September 2015 marks the twentyfifth anniversary of the first non-government organization, the Orphan Foundation, a long term partner of IWC and the scholarship program, coordinated by BCAF. Over the years hundreds Bulgarian orphans became scholars of the project “Get ready for success”, which supported their efforts to achieve high academic success, to complete either high school or university, and to find their place in our society.

As you know October is very special month – the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so on the behalf of the IWC Charity I encourage all of you to never miss regular mammography, because this could save your life! And as Louise Hay says: “As I say yes to life, Life says yes to me”!

On the 30th October we are planning a special charity visit to the Pink Foundation in Tran so don’t miss the opportunity to come and visit one of the projects supported by IWC and also to see the Gorge of Tran with rocks higher than 100 meters.

For more information, please, contact me on +359 879 119 154.

Best regards,

Maria Ilieva

Lora Foundation Summer Camp For one week between 30th July and 6th August 2015 in Tsumnatitsa, Borovets, 43 children enjoyed a time of laughter, joy, fun, love. We spent wonderful time with them.

Games, music, singing, dancing, arts and crafts, sport and fun programs in the evening filled their days.

This year we also had about six 6 year old kids at the camp. They were Siblings of older children. Their parents are seasonal workers and the smaller ones had no place to go. It was such a pleasure to have them there. We were able to give clothes and shoes to the children and gifts to take back home.

For months to come they will still speak about the camp. On behalf of all these children we want to thank you for your support.

Jack, Elsabé and Lora Louw

9

Smile Bulgaria Summer Camp

Dear Leaders and Members of the International Women’s Club, THANK YOU for your generous support of our 2015 Summer Camp for Children Without Parental Care!! 37 children were able to come to camp, and a wonderful time was had by all! Of all of our summer camps, this one had the largest variety of activities available to the children, and went the most smoothly.

In the morning the children met in small groups for discussions. This was followed by English lessons or tutoring in Bulgarian reading and writing. After this, everyone had arts-and-crafts. From decorating t-shirts to making their own stuffed animals, each day had an activity that was fun for all, and gave the children something to take with them with which to remember their time at camp.

The afternoons were our most active time! The children got to go swimming in the early afternoon. This is a favorite activity for almost everyone, especially because for most of the kids this is the only opportunity they have to swim all year! Swimming was followed by either soccer or dancing. We had a wonderful children’s dance teacher come from the United States to lead lessons that the kids really enjoyed –from Latin dance steps to ballet leaps to fun dancing games, it was a unique and joyful experience!

The evenings were time for special events. We had scavenger hunts, games, a talent show, and we even had a Bulgarian teen movie star come and talk to the kids about acting, encouraging them to persevere and not to give up on their goals!

None of this would have been possible without your support. Not only did the kids have a wonderful camp experience, making memories for a lifetime, they also grew in their social skills, self-confidence, and communication abilities. Most importantly, the bond of trust and mutual respect was strengthened between the children and our staff and volunteers. It is this bond that will give us success in working with these precious children and youth throughout the school year to come.

THANK YOU for your invaluable partnership as we work with these children to prepare them for a bright future as strong, healthy individuals that are able to contribute to society and to make Bulgaria a better place!

We are deeply thankful.

Sincerely, Spas and Christina Stoimenovi and Team

10

Charity Bazaar update The first stall holders meeting was held on the 16th of September, our kind hosts were the Polish embassy, over 70 stall holders from all embassies and missions attended the event. The IWC Board members and us the Bazaar team made sure of the smooth running of this first and very important meeting. After opening words by the IWC President and introductions and briefing by the IWC Vice President, we highlighted on the most important points in the new 2015 Stallholders pack.

The process of completing the Stallholders registration form was explained through a detailed power point presentation by Bazaar Coordinator Toi Castellio, she also spoke about the general guidelines of the bazaar, donations, deadlines, post bazaar sale details and the new for 2015 - online registration and the IWC Cookbook idea and requirements. I also contributed with my share of new information for this year, which was the Nikulden idea, so I encouraged the stallholders to prepare fish dishes in line with the Bulgarian tradition on that day, to clearly mark vegetarian or vegan dishes on the packaging and about the Bazaar event created on the IWC Facebook page. I gave a brief update and a request for Bazaar sponsorship, explained about the Media Point and our request to pre-arrange speakers among the stallholders who will speak in front of the media. A question and answer session followed.

We were quite pleased with the end result as we received numerous completed registration forms and three requests for media interview participation. Special thanks again to our hosts, especially to Aldona Krajewska, and everyone who attended the first stall holders meeting.

Albena Jones

Bazaar team contacts Toi Castelló i Reñé Bazaar Coordinator iotcas@gmail.com +359 879 506 799

Albena Jones Assistant Bazaar Coordinator albenajones@yahoo.co.uk +359 879 119 151

Elisaveta Petrusheva PR and Media e.petrusheva@mysextet.com +359 898 707 777

Zarina Benoun-Takova Donors Contracts admin@iwc-sofia.org +359 2 951 6117

Bogdana Angelova Entertainment Coordinator iwcbazaar.entertainment@gmail.com +359 889 623 566

Nara Vasconcelos Advance Ticket Sales narabulgaria@yahoo.com +359 888 010 860

Aldona Krajewska Honorary Member of Bazaar Team 2015 aldonakrajewska@wp.pl +359 888 903 496

Sandra Topalska Donors Coordinator sandra.topalska@gmail.com + 359 885 039 071

Violeta Sabcheva Entertainment Assistant iwcbazaar.entertainment@gmail.com +359 878 225 465

11

Ernesta Kazlauskaite Volunteers’ Coordinator ernestakazlauskaite@yahoo.com +359 878 542 800

Elitsa Lingorski Donors Contracts, Logos, Cookbook office@iwc-sofia.org +359 2 951 6117

Interview with IWC Treasurer Kelsa Smith-Mouskourova How does it feel to be back in the club, do you see many people you know from before, have you found any new friends?

It’s great to be back in the IWC. It feels a bit like coming home. The familiarity I spoke of earlier. It’s wonderful to see familiar faces, to rekindle friendships that I made when I first arrived. It helps that I’ve had the opportunity to vacation in Sofia for a couple of weeks each year that I was away. Meeting friends while I was here on vacation and communicating with them on Facebook makes it feel as if I was gone for only a short time. It’s also fantastic to see so many new faces. Our English Conversation Group is filled with individuals I’ve not met before and it’s exciting to learn more about each of them.

At the September Coffee Morning I also saw many new faces and I look forward to getting to know them over the coming weeks and months.

Kelsa, you are from L.A. I guess it must have been a challenge leaving such a great city behind, what is the thing you miss the most?

You have been active in charity work quite a bit, can you share some of your experience and ideas?

Along with being a fantastic city to live in, Los Angeles is my home. I miss many things about Los Angeles, the weather and the beaches are high on my list.

What I miss most is the sense of familiarity. I was born in Los Angeles, raised in Northern Los Angeles County and lived most of my adult life in the San Fernando Valley. I knew where to find the best Mexican food, the best mechanic to fix my car, where to shop for clothing brands that I like, how to manoeuvre the freeway system, etc. My life in Los Angeles was busy and fulfilling. I took for granted all the little bits of knowledge that made my days run smooth.

Many years ago, a young woman, a girl really, gave birth to a six and a half pound baby girl in the City of Angels. That baby girl was immediately taken away and placed in the care of children’s services.

Born with a rapidly diagnosed heart defect, the baby was treated by a pediatric cardiologist and given to foster parents for care. As the heart condition was a concern, child services decided to keep the baby in their care and postpone her adoption.

Four months later the couple who were waiting to adopt the baby girl was able to convince child services that the babies’ heart condition did not matter to them. They would love her as their own and provide for her needs. I was given a name, a family and a home and two years later my heart defect was completely healed. I’m one of the lucky ones.

Charity work is vital for me. It’s my way of saying thank you for my life. I look forward to working with the Charity Committee and hope that my experience will be of use.

You became an IWC member in 2010. Then you went to Toronto and now you are back in Sofia to resume your role as IWC Treasurer. In your opinion, has anything changed in Sofia as a city since you left?

In the four years my husband and I were in Toronto, Sofia has changed extensively on the surface.

The expanded metro service has made getting around the city much easier. The completion of the highway to Burgas and the progress on the highway to Greece also make traveling a bit easier. Paradise Mall, Ikea and the Ring Mall are new additions to the shopping offered in Sofia. However, these are just surface changes. The city, meaning the people, seems much the same. Too many seniors are still struggling to live on pensions that have not kept pace with the economy and the chasm between ethnic Bulgarians and the Roma is still vast. The addition of Syrian refugees adds an entirely new dimension to the city. And yet, the people seem the same. There is a group of retirees who sit in front of my building each day talking, the same individuals who sat there four years ago. Some have gone and others have joined, but the sense of community I feel when I watch them remains the same.

What book are you reading at the moment?

I love to read. I will read almost anything. Right now I’m re-reading Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I am very thankful for Kindle and the very many free downloads available!

Have you learned to cook Bulgarian food yet?

What is your favourite Bulgarian dish?

My husband has taught me to cook many Bulgarian dishes. It’s hard to choose just one dish as my favourite, but I do have to say, I love Bulgarian salads. Shopska salad and snezhanka are my favorites at the moment. The abundance of nonGMO food available in Bulgaria is a real plus. The produce is so tasty!

12

An Indonesian visit

The Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia and his wife Lia Saptomo hosted a reception on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Republic. We enjoyed tremendously the hospitality of our hosts who put on a flamboyant event with traditional Indonesian dancing and singing, and an impressive fashion show. Of course, we were are swept off our feet as always and in the end found it difficult to leave. Mrs Saptomo, true to her generosity of spirit, invites us for some more fashion gazing in a few days later. Wo would miss such a opportunity?

tree which is used to make the green extract of leaves for the flavour of the rolls.

Our charming hostess tells us how much she enjoyed traveling through Bulgaria, the way she treasures the forests and the clean air of this country, its cultural festivals, and of her admiration for Bulgarian costumes. She also shares her experience of the hectic seasonal rush before and during the annual Charity Bazaar, alongside her appreciation of the amazing things the IWC does for so many disadvantaged people. It will be Mrs Saptomo’s last year at the bazaar, hence she reveals her hope that our organisation will continue its charity work for the future.

Consequently, a small group of IWC fashion enthusiasts is admitted into a special room at the Indonesian embassy. Amongst a vast closet of gowns made of beautiful batik and silk materials we start um-ing and argh-ing, trying on the magnificent dresses. Lia Saptomo ushers someone to bring a large plate of dadar gulung (pancake rolls) and we start an ever so interesting chat about the pandan

We express our gratitude to the Indonesian embassy for this visit asa well as for their continuous support to the causes of the IWC. We will miss you, Lia!

Elitsa Lingorski

13

The ‘Braai’ experience

B

raai is not just a story to tell, it’s an experience together.

When I was asked to write a few words about the Braai presentation for the newsletter, my first reaction was that Braai is not just a story to tell, it’s an experience together. Yet, for those of you who could not make it on that Saturday (which was officially a workday) and missed the lovely afternoon in Anja and Mirco’s home, I googled the term and copy/pasted part of the Wikipedia article, which turned out to be a reliable source of information, in this case at least.

The word braai (plural braais) is Afrikaans for "barbecue" or "grill" and is a social custom in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi. I read the names of all these countries and they did sound like a wild adventure to me, but Anja, Mirco and Becky’s stories made them feel homey. Three people, coming from three different countries, were telling their guests the same story of casual and relaxed social gatherings of families and friends, and their story was supported by a beautiful film about South Africa.

M e a t s a r e t h e m a i n s t a y o f t h e S o u t h African braai, so were they at ours, starting with 2 kinds of sausages mixed together, which made us eat more and more while looking for the spicy ones. Similar to a potluck party, very often people come to the braai with their own meat, salad, or side dish in hand. In our case the delicious side dishes were prepared by Anja and Becky. The other main part of the meal in some regions of the country is pap (/ˈpɑːp/, meaning porridge). Pap is made from finely ground corn/maize (similar to polenta).

Anja’s dish looked so tempting when she took it out from the oven that we completely forgot about the spicy sausages.

We were told that a braai is a social occasion which has specific traditions and social norms. Women rarely cook meat at a social gathering, as this is normally preserved for men. The cooking of the meat is not the prerogative of all the men attending, as one person would normally be in charge. He will attend to the fire, check that the coals are ready and cook the meat, and we could see it all expertly done on the spot by Mirco.

Etiquette has it that others are not permitted to interfere with the braai operators duties, except if expressly asked to help. Other men may assist in the cooking, but generally only partake in fireside conversations This is very similar to how Australian, New Zealand, and American backyard barbecues are often run. What makes a braai different from a barbecue is that it is the 'go-to' social event - from Christmas Day, to graduation parties, to birthdays and every day get together, the braai is used as a means to celebrate.

And finally, Braai Day is celebrated annually by South Africans across the world on 24 September (South Africa's Heritage Day) It is a celebration of South Africa's rich cultural heritage and its unique national pastime, the braai.

Sonya Petrova

14

‘Adventures in Music and Art’

On

a rainy Monday evening in September, the new IWC project "Adventures in Music and Art" got started. Nara Vasconcelos (Brazil) hosted the first event of the series – a cozy home-concert featuring the sounds of piano, cello and violin. Interesting to note that Nara and her "adventurous family" moved all the way from Brazil to Bulgaria in 2006, in order to get classical music education for her two very talented sons (and Nara is a member of IWC ever since).

So a number of 15 ladies, together with some husbands, gathered in Nara's flat to enjoy listening to exclusive performances of compositions by Fauré, Paganini, Piazzolla, Massenet and Brazilian composers Villa-Lobos and Nazareth. Besides the brilliant participation of the family - Pedro Barreto (violin), Davi Barreto (cello) and Nara herself at the piano - the program included a special violin performance by Carolina Ribeiro, a Brazilian young lady who is also well known for her recent participation on BTV's “Masterchef Bulgaria”. IWC member Denitsa Dancheva-Peterson added the gentle touch of the visual Arts, presenting some of her water colour paintings inspired on classical Italy. Homemade delights prepared by some of the ladies were washed down with a lot of wine, which helped warming up the cultural evening in all senses.

Thanks to our vice-president Becky Ruth Faber for generating the great idea of this project and... let's follow up the next editions!

15

‘New World’ food demo and delicious recipes Anna’s Spinach Diamond Quiche Squares Ingredients: 1 cup flour 1 cup milk 1 tsp salt 3 tbsp melted butter 1 tsp baking powder

Green Bean Casserole Ingredients: 1. Mushroom sauce (mush + white sauce) Make the mushroom sauce a day before and put in the fridge.

2. Thaw frozen green beans 3. Onion dried (buy at Ikea) like onion rings packet

1 lbs Cheddar/ Gouda 1 or ½ minced onion 1 tbsp garlic powder Frozen spinach 2 eggs

Mushroom sauce Ingredients: 2 tbsp reserved mushrooms 2 tbsp chopped onion 2 tbsp margarine or butter 2 tbsp flour 1 cup chicken or turkey broth 1/4 tsp salt 1/8 tsp pepper 1/8 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Drain frozen spinach well. Mix all ingredients?

Grate more/ less cheese. Add 2 beaten eggs.

Sprinkle with mint bits. Bake at 325 °F (number 2 oven) for 30-35 min in greased 9x13 inch pan. For leftovers freeze well. If you freeze, bake at 350 for shorter period -15 min.

Home Made Lemonade

Cool and stir mushrooms and onion in margarine over low heat until golden brown. Stir in flour.

Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until flour is deep brown; remove from heat. Stir in broth.

Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir 1 minute. Stir in remaining ingredients. N.B.: Becky’s secret – Make a thicker white sauce for soufflé or soup.

Fill pitcher with water. Add sliced lemon + bits and other fruit / apple juices. Stir in sugar to taste. N.B.: For large jug, 1 cup sugar. OPTIONAL: orange bits Home Made (Non sweet) Ice Tea DO NOT BOIL WATER used; Soak desired tea leaves or tea bags in very large jar, jug water.

Serve. Add sugar to taste if “Southern Sweet Tea,” is desired.

"White sauce" as USA calls it or bechamel, as French and Italians say, is a great base (thin white sauce) for "au gratin" cauliflower or vegetables/ but is also, when in thick form, useful for mac 'n cheese dishes (pasta).

Thin White Sauce (alternate for Green bean casserole) 1tbsp margarine or butter 1 tbsp flour ¼ tsp salt 1/8 tsp pepper 1 cup milk Heat margarine in saucepan over low heat until melted. Blend in flour, salt and pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and bubbly, remove from heat. Stir in milk. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir 1 minute.

For the Green Bean Casserole mix beans, onion, white sauce and all tog. Bake at 350 °F for 40-45 min; Can be reheated.

16

17

Membership news

On the occasion of the 25th annual Italian language week around the world, on the 21st October, the Italian Cultural Institute is presenting an event dedicated to the famous song "Caruso" of Italian singer Lucio Dalla.

The 3rd Korean-Bulgarian Friendship Concert

Istituto Italiano di Cultura Sofia

with Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra

Ambasciata d ‘Italia Sofia

Sovrano Ordine di Malta Ambasciata in Bulgaria

L’Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Sofia, nell’ambito della XV Settimana della Lingua Italiana nel Mondo 2015, “Italiano della musica, la musica dell’italiano”, con il patrocinio dell’Ambasciata d’Italia a Sofia, del Comune di Sofia e dell’Ambasciata del Sovrano Ordine di Malta in Bulgaria, invita la S.V. a partecipare alla manifestazione culturale

“Music is the great uniter. An incredible force. Something that people who differ on everything and anything else can have in common.”

Comune di Sofia

SERATA “CARUSO” OMAGGIO A LUCIO DALLA

― Sarah Dessen, “Just Listen”

Mercoledì 21 ottobre 2015, ore 17,00 Sala Concerto “Bulgaria” - Via Aksakov, 1 - Sofia Conduce Maria Kantareva

On the 6th October in Sofia, we will have an opportunity to gather together in the Bulgaria Concert Hall with Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra, Korean Soloists, and Bulgarian pianist and conductor. This event has an ever more special meaning - since we mark the 25th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Bulgaria. As well this this concert has now turned into an annual custom and is a wonderful way to widen and deepen the friendship between Korean and Bulgarian people.

Presentazione del romanzo biografico di Raffaele Lauro “Caruso The Song - Lucio Dalla e Sorrento” Modera Silvana Abagnale Relatori Emanuele Pollio, Vice Capo Missione dell’Ambasciata d’Italia a Sofia Bodgan Patashev, Primo Consigliere - Ambasciata del Sovrano Ordine di Malta in Bulgaria Vincenzo Scotti, già Ministro degli Affari Esteri e dei Beni Culturali - Presidente della Link Campus University di Roma Proiezione del docufilm (54’) di Raffaele Lauro “Lucio Dalla e Sorrento - I Luoghi dell’Anima”

The main organizer is the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bulgaria, and the main sponsor is World Culture Networks GmbH. In particular this year, more than 10 Korean companies supported this concert. Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra will play with Sumi HWANG (SOPRANO), TaeJoongYANG (BARITONE), Eungsoo KIM (VIOLIN), Georgi CHERKIN (PIANO), under the baton of Nayden Todorov.

Sarà presente l’Autore Vino d’onore

Per info su Autore e opera: www.raffaelelauro.it – www.carusothesong.com – www.carusothesong.com/docufilm/

Love Yourself Heal Your Life Workshops (September-October 2015) “It is safe to look within.”

Louise L. Hay These powerful transformational Heal Your Life® 3 hour workshops are based on the principles of the best-selling book “You Can Heal Your Life” by Louise L. Hay.

The 3rd KO R E A N - B U L G A R I A N F R I E N D S H I P C O N C E RT

Simple yet powerful- What we believe to be true about ourselves becomes true in our lives. We create everything that we experience in our lives, good and bad. Every thought we think and word we speak is literally painting our future. Our experiences in life are created by our thoughts and feelings. We can change our thoughts and beliefs in order to change our lives.

w i t h t h e S o fi a P h i l h a r m o n i c O r c h e s t r a Tuesday, 6th October 2015, 19:00

Thursday, September 24th, 10:00-13:00 Understanding and living by Heal Your Life Basic Philosophy, the Power of Meditation and Ordering from the Cosmic Kitchen.

Bulgaria Concert Hall

Thursday, October 1st, 10:00-13:00 Uncovering negative messages (part 1), Mirror work, Deservability, Affirmations and Visualization Wednesday, October 7th, 10:00-13:00 Sofia Village (Kambanite Kompleks) Donation: 10 lv (for Rojdestvo Hristovo Foundation) Space for 15 ladies.

Thursday, October 8th, 10:00-13:00 Uncovering negative messages (part 2) and Inner child work

MOVIE AND TALK

Thursday, October 22nd, 10:00-13:00 Willingness to change and Releasing old emotions Thursday, October 29th, 10:00-13:00 Forgiveness and Opening to Love

You are invited to view the movie “The Secret” (2006, 87 min) which explains, with simplicity, the Law that is governing all lives, and offers the knowledge of how to create - intentionally and effortlessly - a joyful life.

Entry fee: 35 lv. per session (30 lv. for IWC members) and 150 lv. for booking all five sessions in advance (130 lv. for IWC members).

Location: Sofia Village (Kambanite Kompleks)

Interviews with leading authors, philosophers, scientists, with an in-depth discussion of the Law of Attraction and shows how to learn and use “The Secret” in our everyday lives.

Join Certified and Licensed Heal Your Life® Workshop Leader and Life Coach, Sara Sedó, for a talk about The Secret and The Law of Attraction after the movie.

For sign up and more information: 0899986001 and sara.sedo@gmail.com

ASK. BELIEVE. RECEIVE.

Sara Sedó is a Certified and Licensed Heal Your Life® Workshop Leader and Life Coach.

Sara Sedó is a Certified and Licensed Heal Your Life® Workshop Leader and Life Coach.

For more information: sara.sedo@gmail.com and 0899986001

18

Membership news Birthdays in October Lyuboslava Boyanina, 11th October

Advice and information section

Sunny Stimmler, 12th October

Can you, help us create a section with advice and information on favourite places you would recommend to newcomers for our new "Help for Newbies" section of the newsletter in September? Please tell us your favourite places for hairdresser, colourist, movie place for family, reliable car mechanic, handyman, babysitters, picnic site, best plumber, place for a romantic date, kids park for sport and bike, kids party location?

Karine Stanisheva, 13th October Bistra Balabanova, 13th October Mihaela Dobre, 16th October Helena Popelkova, 21st October Anna Levesley, 21st October Ruth Thompson, 24th October

Or you may have some other ideas you want to suggest for new people.

Christa Connor, 25th October

If you have any information to share, could you write a quick e-mail during the summer months to the office, please? We will then gather all the info and publish it

Lynne Godding, 25th October Sonya Petrova, 30th October

Announcements Nissan Juke 4x4 for sale HUSBANDS OF SOFIA

A new men’s group for expats is being initiated. For more information and details of the first event, please contact Becky Ruth Faber: beckyruthfaber@gmail.com

1.6 Automatic,pearl white, good condition, registered May 2014 and 23,000km on the clock.

Good price: 17,000 euros.

Contact Sandra on email: sandrasbulgaria@aol.com

Hatha Yoga for beginners

Housekeeper available immediately.

Dear Ladies from the IWC in Sofia, I would like to invite you to my Hatha Yoga for beginners class from September, 1st, every Friday from 10 am till 11.30 am at Yoga Studio "Eleven" in Lozenec, 16 Zlaten Rog Street, opposite Hotel Marinella, former Kempinski. The price per class is 10 leva. My contact number is: 0888443000.

Teddy Houry

My housekeeper Renee worked for me for nearly 4 years. She is reliable, trustworthy and friendly. Â She speaks only Bulgarian, but this still allows her to communicate. Feel free to contact me for a reference - dianetromansberg@yahoo.co.uk, or call Renee directly- +359 87 6231221.

Diane Tromans-Berg

Dear music lovers in Sofia, do you know SLIC? The Sofia Ladies International Choir is looking for voices for the new season. Rehearsals are in English, once per week, for a multi-cultural community of women who share a passion for singing. Large repertoire and multiple concerts during the year. Please ask us questions at our FB page: Sofia Ladies International Choir.

Come and Sing with us!

19

Ongoing activities

English Conversation Group We are five native English speakers who take it in turns to lead a weekly conversation group every Thursday from 10:30 AM–12:30 PM. Different venues and topics are chosen every week. All members and all levels are welcome. If you would like to join the sessions, please e-mail Albena Jones at albenajones@yahoo.co.uk.

Charity Action Group The group meets once a quarter to discuss new charity projects, the progress of ongoing projects, and the finances of the Charity Foundation. Part of the follow-up is frequent visits to these projects. If you want to make a difference and contribute something please join us! The date and place of the next meeting is published in the monthly newsletter & on the website. Contact Maria Ilieva on 0878 300 561 or at charity@iwc-sofia.org.

Book Club Members read one book a month, and then get together to discuss the book (discussions are in English and are usually very fun and lively). We read a variety of fiction and non-fiction books from writers of all nationalities (voted on by the members) and usually meet on the last Thursday of the month at 10:30am. For more information contact: Lisa Freij on her email: lisa.freij@gmail.com.

Spanish Conversation Group

Bridge

Everybody who wants to practice and improve her Spanish is welcome to or weekly meetings. Also, if you are already fluent in Spanish or if you are a native speaker and you would like to participate, please contact Toi Castelló on 0882 008 518 or write her an e-mail: iotcas@gmail.com.

Interested members are invited to play bridge. An intermediate/advanced group plays on Thursday mornings at 10:30 am in the “King of Clubs” club, just behind Matti-d. Fee is 5 BGN for the session.

There is an English-speaking group and a Frenchspeaking group. For more information, contact Diana Kolarova at dianakolarova@ yahoo.com or 0888 423 150. We also welcome visitors!

Tennis A group of members are starting to regularly play tennis together. We are of mixed ability and if you wish to join us or get on the regular email list then please contact Lynne at lynnegodding@gmail.com.

Bulgarian Language Group Elina Kirova is a professional teacher and translator.

The Bulgarian conversation or language group meets every Friday from 11:00 AM–12:30 PM at the IWC Office. For further details, please contact Elina Kirova at elinakirova@yahoo.com, or sign up at the monthly coffee morning.

Hiking Club The hiking group is an energetic group of dedicated hikers who head up to Vitosha and the surrounding mountains every Friday. We usually meet at 9 am at Fantastico in Dragelevtsi. An email is sent to all hikers every Wednesday with more specific plans and this often includes different meeting points. A typical hike will bring us back to our meeting point at 2 or 3. For more information or to join the mailing list, please contact Becky Ruth Faber and she will direct you to the person leading this group.

Baby/toddler Group Contact Claudia on her mobile number 0888449868 and her email claudia.sonea@icloud.com at all times.

20

Bootcamp

are conducted in English but we have sung in Latin, French, Spanish, Bulgarian and even Korean! We are small but make a good sound and have already performed several short concerts at the Catholic Cathedral and the US Embassy. Our choir director is a Bulgarian/Canadian who is great fun. We are looking for some more good singers. The ability to read music would be an advantage but is not essential. For more info: Daniela Videv at danielavidev@hotmail.com.

NEW

This is an English language Outdoor EXERCISE group.

We meet every Wed and Fri at 10am sharp at the park behind CCS (the dog park) with Costa Coffee as a meeting point. This began as a mothers’ group who are interested in getting back in shape or just want to keep healthy and fit in general. And now we want to invite fellow ladies of the IWC to join our FIT movement.

Motivated by our expert instructor we will spend 1 to 1.15 hours of great outdoor workout with lots of cardio and strength training. The training (instructor fee) is 12 leva per training per person initially but the price drops if you become a regular. We hope to see you there! Contact Nadya Wuisan-Bratanova on her e-mail: nw.bratanova@gmail.com.

Patchwork Group The group meets every Monday from 10:00 AM-– 12:00 PM at Dusica Trkulja’s apartment. The address is Evlogy Georgiev 99, floor 6, apartment 27. Interested ladies are welcome to bring ideas, patterns, and materials. For more information, please contact Dusica Trkulja on her landline: 02 980 0948.

Choir Sofia Ladies International Choir (SLIC) is a ladies four part harmony choir here in Sofia. We sing everything from ancient to modern, sacred to secu-

October events

Friday, 2nd October 11.00am: Best Banitsa Learn to make (eat) authentic Bulgarian banitsa. This unique Autumn style with our own Maria Nas and her delicious pumpkin (aka “tik-vichkee”) helps inaugurate the season! maria_nas@abv.bg.

quick lunch at Happy Bar& Grill behind former Kempinski hotel where native Spanish speakers give exactly one hour of SPANISH. “Andale, andale”! Contact Becky Ruth Faber: beckyruthfaber@gmail.com.

Tuesday, 6th October

Tuesday, 13th or 27th October

10.30am: Monthly Coffee Morning

Time t.b.c.: Coffee AM in Moscow

Hurry, this may be your last chance to renew your yearly membership without incurring a possible late payment surcharge after the end of October.

If a Russian invited you home, what would the coffee hour taste, look, feel like? Wonderful Maria Barmina and Ekatarina Vatashki invite us to sample delicious Slavic cakes. Park car near Hotel Marinella (former Kempinski) to walk to Maria’s place! Sign up at coffee morning or ontact Maria Barmina: maria.barmina@mail.ru.

Wednesday, 7th October 10.00am: Tai Chi Let us learn from this ancient wisdom practice! Come to stretch and grow stronger the Oriental way! Meet at CCS in Costa café.

Come with a bottle of water and work-out clothes. Sign up at MCM or contact Miwako on 087825 4740 for details.

Wednesday, 14th October 11.00am: Ebru demonstration Bulgarian artist Antoaneta Bebenova is inviting you to her studio for an artistic demonstration of the ancient Ebru technique of drawing on water. Cost for materials between 3-5 leva depending on group of people. Up to 10 people limit. Venue address is 8 Lavski Rid St., block 3, near Bulgaria Mall. Sign up at coffee morning, contact Becky Ruth Faber: beckyruthfaber@gmail.com or call Antoaneta directly on +359 887 470 366.

Friday, 9th October 10.00am: Shop till you drop Get beautiful items for the home at DEKORA, a Boyana treasure. Contact Paula Ryde White at pcreamtea@yahoo.com or sign up at IWC coffee morning.

Friday, 9th October

Wednesday, 14th October

12.00pm: Spanish Friday lunch hour “Uno, Dos, Tres” presented by the Spanish group ̶ a

12.30pm: Monthly lunch 21

Friday, 16th October

things. Contact Sory on 089 471 6182 for directions and details.

12.00pm: Spanish Friday lunch hour Continue to meet at Happy Bar& Grill behind the former Kempinski hotel. Contact: beckyruthfaber@gmail.com.

Friday, 23rd October 12.00pm: Spanish Friday lunch hour

Monday, 19th October

Continue to meet at Happy Bar& Grill behind the former Kempinski hotel. Contact: beckyruthfaber@gmail.com.

Time t.b.c.: New book club night I N R E S P O N S E

Monday, 26th October

T O M E M B E R S’ R E Q U E S T S!

With friends from the USA embassy a new IWC Evening book club will start to meet once a month – perhaps it will be a Monday night, monthly club. Pay attention at the MCM for more details.

7.00pm: Adventures in Music and Art Save the date! A special surprise location has been suggested: narabulgaria@yahoo.com.

Tuesday, 20th October

Friday, 30th October

10.00am: Second Stallholders’Meeting

9.30am: Charity visit to Pink Foundation

For all stallholders participating in the 21st Charity Bazaar.

Meeting place is the USA Embassy. If you are planning to attend, you are required to send your name and ID in advance, not later than 13th October. There will be no exceptions as security at the embassy is very tight. Contact Toi Castello iotcas@gmail.com.

A trip to visit one of the charities we support in the town of Trun. The return is planned for 2.00pm. For more details, please contact Maria Ilieva: ms.maria.ilieva@gmail.com.

Wednesday, 21st October

A 5 kilometre walk, bike or run to raise funds for charity ̶ to be used to help fund Battle against Breast Cancer. Please let Angela or Becky know if you are interested in this because it will be cancelled if insufficient interest is shown.

Sunday, 1st November 1.00pm: “Run for Life”

11.00am: French Colombian morning Lovely Sory Jan will host an elegant time in Simeonovo to discuss French cuisine and taste lovely cakes or salty

October calendar 10.00am Bootcamp 11.00am: Best Banitsa 10.30am: Monthly Coffee Morning

10.00am: Tai Chi 10.00am Bootcamp

10.00am: Shop till you drop 12.00pm: Spanish Friday lunch hour

? t.b.c.: Coffee AM in Moscow

10.00am Bootcamp 11.00am: Ebru 12.30pm: Monthly lunch

10.00am Bootcamp 12.00pm: Spanish Friday lunch hour

Time t.b.c.: New 10.00am: Second book club night Stallholders’ Meeting

10.00am Bootcamp 11.00am: French Colombian morning

10.00am Bootcamp 12.00pm: Spanish Friday lunch hour

7.00pm: Adventures in Music and Art

10.00am Bootcamp

10.00am Bootcamp 9.30am: Charity visit to Pink Foundation

22

23

24