Costa Cálida Chronicle April 2012

Costa Clida Chronicle
The Longest Established hed FREE Magazine in Murcia
www.costacalidachronicle.com
Date: April 2012
Issue: 4
Volume: XII
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To place an advertisement with us please see page 5 or contact Teresa 619 199 407
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Any regular readers will be aware that we at Rainbow are on holiday for the rst three weeks of March this is being written on a beach in Sri Lanka but we will be home working when you read this. We are having a great holiday the highlights so far? Great Hotel in Negombo on the west coast, travel in the observation car on the train, visiting two national botanical gardens, a further rst class train ride and the fabulous safari into one of the national parks and seeing elephants, deer, water buffalo, crocodiles all in their natural surroundings, but also a good 10 minutes watching the elusive leopard stalk some prey so few get to see it, but our excellent guide was just the best tracker. Now we have found a great hotel close to the beach and the town of Tangalle - memories. Thanks to Sister Bobbie for mum, house, dog and cat sitting not possible to do this without you. TV NEWS The big story must be the move of most of the FREESAT channels to the D satellite at 28.2. This has a much bigger footprint making signals in our part of Spain so much easier to get by easier we mean smaller dishes. Up to now 1.35m dishes were minimum, but these had severe limitations on reception 1.45m was better and 1.80m really needed for 24/7 FREESAT reception. (This story does NOT apply to those of you having/wanting SKY pay channels they mostly remain on the weaker signals requiring the big dish-
es). The large dishes were both eyesores and expensive sometimes on some properties being not possible to x and thus no UK TV. Now with the move to the new satellite most FREESAT is available on 80cm dishes with all on a 1.00m not quite as small as the 60cm or smaller used in UK, but much better and cheaper than the 1.35 plus units. If you ever wanted UK TV but were put off by cost or the appearance of the monsters, now maybe the time to reconsider? Those of us having systems with big dishes need do nothing unless you want to get rid of the eyesore for a smaller unit, but before taking that decision read on: The big problem is that the signals may revert back to the weaker satellites at any time making the big dishes yet again a requirement. I doubt it will happen soon, but it may in the future, so the cheaper system installed today may not work in the future. There is also the new F Satellite being built and ready for launching later this year which will have a huge channel capacity and make some of the older existing satellites redundant; probably being moved to new transmission locations for new satellite operators. This F Satellite will, by all rumour, but not published fact, have an even tighter footprint on the UK, making reception here in Spain perhaps more difcult. None of these changes have any effect on reception in the UK where the signals are intended for, so very little data is published for use by us overseas operators. I
am sure intentions and plans are fully known at Astra Satellites and the BBC/ITV, but that data is not freely available. If you dont have UK TV and the recent development to smaller dishes appeals, should you go ahead? Difcult to answer it must be a personal decision knowing all the facts. Just dont be sucked in by the unscrupulous installer promising you every UK channel for ever more. That promise CANNOT be made, but it may be worth proceeding at the signicantly reduced cost. Worst case is you will lose signal at some stage, but the digibox will be ne probably just a bigger dish will be required! Back to square one! A quick note for those of you running NONFREESAT or SKY boxes - if you have lost some channels over the past weeks your box may need rescanning. FREESAT and SKY boxes will have done it automatically the frequencies did not change (except for CH5) when the satellite transmitting was changed and really rescans should not be necessary, but I did see one confused cheapy box menu / install / rescan should bring all back. Article sponsored by RAINBOW SATELLITES, the company for ALL your TV needs in the Murcia Region of Spain. Contact Alan or Matt for free friendly advice, email rainbowsats@gmail.com or call (0034) 686358475. Our website www.rainbowsats.org offers some good basic advice, but has not yet been updated for the above changes.
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The Costa Clida is a beautiful and diverse region of Spain and with the news of Paramount choosing this area to develop a theme park, it has got to be good news for all the different businesses in the area. We believe that by being positive and seeking out and drawing attention to the amazing culture, history and beauty this area has to offer, we will draw more and more visitors to the area. This in turn will encourage buyers to invest in the area and the more properties that are sold, the more businesses will follow. Our sales team has been extremely busy on the magazine this month with lots of new advertisers and some older ones returning to us. Whether it is the news about the Paramount land nally being signed, or a general upturn in business due to the time of year, we have not had time to analyse , but the activity levels on all aspects of the magazine has denitely increased. Therefore we are pleased to welcome the following new advertisers this month to The Costa Clida Chronicle: New Advertisers Linea Directa Vial Carpinterias Paramount Resort Villa Rentals Medicallink Quality Indian Restaurant Kwik Fix English Mechanic RTC Window Cleaners La Tienda (Los Alcazares) Electricians Duro & Corn Spanish Plumber Crispulo 4The Artist Welcome Back Kevins Fly Screens Happy Feet Foot Spa ADS Property Services Bodega Martinez Camposol Four Legs Dog Grooming KR Entertainments Tornado Dry Cleaners Restaurante Castillo De Pinar Coastline Auto Airport Parking There are still areas that many are not familiar with, so if you have visited somewhere memorable lately, please let us know about it and include a photograph if possible so that we can continue to share our love for this region. Our website receives several thousands hits from all over the world each month, so we know just how much the information is valued. A special thanks must go to Jo Wrench this month, who not only has produced an excellent magazine as usual but she was actually quite ill with u for over two weeks in the run up to the deadline but she battled on without complaint. What a true professional! You can take a rest now Jo! Happy Easter from all at
Camposol Ofce - 968 970 680 Teresa Hicks - Sales & Marketing - 619 199 407 Patti Benn - Editor - 646 005 017 Jo Wrench - Graphic Design and Publishing - 646 610 080 Bob Benn - Finance - 620 582 654 Martine Shindler Customer Services - 968 970 680 To place a business advert please contact Teresa Hicks To discuss editorial content and articles please contact Patti Benn To discuss advert changes please contact Jo Wrench If you would like to place an advertisement or write an article to be included in the Costa Clida Chronicle, then please send it to: Costa Clida Chronicle S.L. 28 Calle Jara Centro Commercial Sector B Camposol 30875 Murcia Email: costacalidachronicle@gmail. com Web: www.costacalidachronicle.com To our advertisers. Please note we have had some recent issues with email. If you have sent an email to the CCC and NOT received any acknowledgement then you can assume that we have not received it. In line with our customer service policy we always reply to every email even it it is just a short note to say got it.
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Semana Santa Spanish News Subscriptions Tambores Teresas Travels The Good News Titanic Wine Horse Festival LEISURE Author Review Gardening Hiking in Moratalla Horoscopes Mr Numpty NEST Puzzle Page Puzzle Solutions TV News WARM PROPERTY Housing Update Property Matters RELIGION Beacon of Light Mass in English Olive Branch Puerto Lumbreras St Nicholas Church Wellspring SPORT Golf Tips Fuente Old Guard Lo Romero Los Amigos Mar Menor Golf Mazarrn Bowls SAMM Vuelta de Murcia
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This article has been written and compiled by Body and Mind Therapist, Drew Ryder BSc. Psychol. Hons, IIHHT, MICHT, ThAT Hopi Ear Candles Hopi Ear Candling, or Thermal Auricular Therapy as it is also known, is a pleasant and noninvasive treatment of the ears, used to treat a variety of conditions. This is an ancient and natural therapy handed down by many civilisations. It is believed that the Ancient Greeks used ear candles initially as a tool for cleansing, purifying and healing on a spiritual basis, but then much later on a purely physical basis. It is the American Hopi Indians of North Arizona we need to thank for the treatments in use today; it is also useful to note that Hopi means peaceful people. Ear candles were traditionally used by Shamen healers and ancient wall paintings show
their importance in initiation rituals and healing ceremonies. The candles I use are still made today on the basis of the old traditional formula originating from the Hopi Indians. There are many types of Hopi Ear Candles on the market, however at the time of print there is only one candle that meets the strict standards of the EU and is approved for medical use, and that is the candle made by Biosun. These are the only candles used in my practice and they are specially designed with a safety lter and a red line marked on them to designate the maximum burn level. Biosun candles are made from the old traditional formula and contain linen (hemp), pure beeswax, honey extract, and essential oil of St Johns Wort, chamomile and sage. How do they work? The candles work on a chimney principle, providing a `vacuum which lets the vapours
gently massage the eardrum and auditory canal to draw out any impurities. Secretion ow is gently stimulated and the vapour collects and removes impurities or deposits. Most of these are carried away through the candle chimney, although some of them can be found in the condensed candle wax residue after removal from the ear. Please note that these impurities could even work their way up to the surface up to 24-48 hours after treatment. Furthermore, they equalise the pressure in the head and ears. Whilst there are no known contra-indications to date, as a precaution Hopi Ear Candles are not to be used: If there is inammation or infection In the event of an allergic reaction to the contents. Perforation or lack of eardrum Ventilation tubes, auricular drains or grommets Recent ear surgery Auricular cysts Acute mastoiditis Otosclerosis or Otospongiosis Ear tumour The candles are often used today as a relaxing treatment to ease away the stresses of our Western culture and to address a number of problems relating to the ear, neck and face areas. The treatment itself is extremely relaxing. They are particularly effective in treating the following: Tinitus, compacted ear wax and glue ear Excess wax production Sore throats and hay fever Headache and migraine Sinusitis and rhinitis Catarrh and asthma Vertigo Meniers Disease Neuralgia (If you are in doubt about any of these conditions or problems you have with your ear you must consult your GP before attending a treatment). Most clients nd the treatment relaxing and regularly describe a slight relieved feeling in the ears and head, as well as feeling relaxed and calm. Indeed some clients even fall asleep during treatment! Typically asked questions: Does the candle residue go into the ear? No - the candles are made with a plug inside which prevents anything going into the ear. I suffer from a lot of wax will it help me? Yes it would. I have a number of clients who previously endured the discomfort of syringing, but now visit me for Hopi treatment instead. It is a gentler treatment and there is no risk of damage to the ear drum as with syringing. Does it help to have a treatment before taking a ight? Yes especially if you suffer with your ears or have sinus problems, it is a good idea to have a treatment prior to your ight to get rid of any excess wax.
PALS are always pleased when we receive donations and this month Sara Laras in Puerto de Mazarrn held a rafe that produced 102 for our funds and in September four brave guys are getting on theirs bikes to Madrid and back, leaving on 22nd and returning on 30th to Camposol B. Our friends at TJs are sponsoring the event and your contributions will be gratefully received. These guys have done Gibraltar, but thats downhill! Madrid is the highest capital city in Europe and theres a lot of climbing for them, so give them as much support as you can. PALS continues to raise money for emergency life saving equipment and to date the fantastic sum of 177,133 has been spent on equipment for the emergency services in and around Mazarrn that were beyond their budgetary limits. Much of the equipment in the ambulances has been supplied by PALS who have also assisted FAST with equipment donations of some 10,561. The emergency catastrophe tent was used last year at the Lorca Earthquake and the inshore rescue vehicles have saved many of those in distress in our coastal waters. PALS is truly a local charity. In order to continue our programme of expenditure we hold various events and functions. Those coming up include a sold out trip to Mojacar with lunch at our favourite restaurant in Bedar, but we plan to repeat this trip before Christmas with a stop over at Iceland in Vera. Put your name down. Our Beach BBQs are always popular and the May 1st event at only 13 includes the annual Boules Contest. It includes food and drink and is a great afternoons fun. This year we have added a new BBQ to our listing and on 29th June we will have an evening BBQ with drinks included at the same price. Fancy dancing? On Good Friday at the Golf Club, Camposol we have the Doghouse Blues Band at 5 and an optional meal for 8 more, or book earlier for a total price of 12.50 per head. Evening starts at 8 pm. Still looking for a special occasion to dress up and eat and drink to your hearts content? Our Jubilee Ball is on 3rd June at the Costa Costa Hotel, Mazarrn. Music by the John Lindo Trio and a chance to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee, or indeed anything else that may be worthwhile. At 27.50 per head this is fantastic value. Coaches available at an additional 7 (subject to demand). Our rst coach for the Cruise to Malta, Sicily, Italy, Sardinia and Palma is full and names are being taken for the second at an incredible all inclusive prices of 600 per person for an interior cabin. The ship leaves from Valencia so an easy coach trip from Mazarrn is included. For details of all these and other events visit www.pals.sm4.biz Tickets available each Saturday at the Trevi Bar, Camposol B from 11am-1.30pm or at Sara Laras on a Wednesday afternoon from 1.30-3pm or call 626460465.
CAF NEWS We currently have 40,000 towards our target of 60,000 for an additional ambulance in the Mazarrn area and we are delighted to conrm CAF CONCERT 2012 will be at the Playa Grande Hotel, Puerto de Mazarrn. More details to follow, but we have music to suit all tastes, ballads, swing, jazz, blues, rock, rock n roll and the ticket price is to be held at 5. Info from 626460465
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Hi, its Shannon here and I am going to tell you about a day of our recent holiday. The family and I went to stay in a hotel apartment in Marbella, kindly given to us by some very dear friends. As Marbella is not far from Gibraltar we went there for a day. As it happened, Brian and Maureen were there for a holiday themselves as it was their 50th Wedding Anniversary, so we had arranged to meet them. We were supposed to be meeting Bri and Mo in front of the hotel they were Hello again, Connor here. This month I am going to write about a town called Ronda. We went there while we were on holiday near Estepona, Marbella. When we arrived at the hotel and collected our keys we were given a map of places to visit and Ronda was one of them. Ronda is quite a way from where we were staying, up in the mountains, so we set off early - worth a picnic. We went along some very narrow bendy roads, through tiny villages, H e l l o , Nathan here again and I am going to you about a n o t h e r day of our holiday. It was the last day and we went to a place called Puerto B a n u s . When we woke up on the day we had decided to go to Puerto Banus we noticed that there was an Artisan Market just outside our apartment. Mum wanted to go down and have a look at the stalls. Everything was hand-made and the rst stall had things made out of stainless steel costing around 100 each. We walked past that one quickly, although the man who ran it was very friendly and told us how he made his items.
staying in, but we couldnt nd it! However, we did get to drive round the whole island and through some cave type tunnels! In the end Mum phoned Brian and it turned out that we had driven past them and they had seen us! Eventually, we parked the car and then we all went up to the top of the mountain in a cable car. It was a short ride. Once we reached the top we were greeted by an angry climbing higher all the time. The views were really good. When we reached Ronda and parked the car we went for a walk around. Mum and Shannon took loads of pictures. There were shops full of bandit stuff, like knives and replica pistols. We saw horses and carts trotting around and Spanish dancers. As we got near the centre of the
looking baboon called Goldie. We had a walk around and took lots of photos. The scenery was amazing. We saw a plane coming in to land. They have to go across the road and that is the runway. Amazing to watch. We decided to have a picnic lunch right at the top of Gibraltar, away from the monkeys as they would more than likely steal our food. A couple of the baboons came to see what we were eating, but they just walked past us. It was a really hot day. After we came back down in the cable car we went to the Botanical gardens and the little zoo that is in there. My favourite animals in there were the tiny little monkeys with white tufts on their heads. I asked Dad if I could have one, but he said No! Isnt he mean! I still had a great time though and the queue to get back onto mainland Spain was not too bad. Once we were back at our hotel, we went for a swim and a sauna. Wonderful!
town we noticed that it was built across a huge bridge. As we walked across the bridge and looked down we saw a river running along. You could walk part of the way down and we saw arches and steps going even further down. It was huge and the houses and cafes were all built right on the edge. It was a very beautiful town and there was so much to do there. I would like to go back again someday. On the way back down we called in at a little village for a coffee. The village was painted completely blue! It was a Smurf village! It had been painted blue when the Smurf lm was made. I suppose that was get lots of people to go to it! Dad couldnt believe how much blue paint had been used! The walls of some of the houses had Smurfs painted on them and even some of the people in the village were dressed as Smurfs! It was a great day. When we got back to the hotel, we went for a swim and a sauna.
Everyone was friendly and I got chatting to the owner of a stall where Mum bought a few nice things from; toe rings and stuff for her hair. Everything was very different. We nally left for Puerto Banus, but went to Benahavis rst for our picnic. There was a lake there and we thought it would be a nice place to stop. The weather had been really good every day. Shannon and I skimmed a few stones across the water while Mum and Dad read books. Then we set off again for our destination. On the way we passed a Ferrari and a Lamborghini. I think that was sign of what was to come really! Once in the town we parked the car and went for our usual walk round so Mum could take photographs. We looked at the estate Agents window and saw houses for 13 and a half million euros! The average price seemed to be 3 million euros! We went into a clothes shop and there was a dress, just a normal dress for 1800 and a T shirt for 400! After we had nished looking at extremely expensive things we wanted to go for a coffee; it was 6 for just a plain, normal ice cream! The most amazing thing of all was the boats
which were big enough to be cruise liners and some of them were for sale for 8 million euros! A normal sized boat was 100,000! We did nd a nice place for a drink, right on the edge of the sea front. After another look around and more pictures taken, we went back to the hotel for our nightly swim and sauna. Shannon and I bought Mum a Kit Kat because she said she wanted some chocolate! Then the next day we came home. It was a lovely experience and a great holiday.
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Medicallink began in 2004. They run a Medicallink subscription programme for UK expats to provide healthcare interpreters at hospitals and health centres.Their project was researched with the help of the health service and the Murcia business confederation CROEM, who in 2007 awarded them the OMEP prize for Service Innovation. The initial research identied the real needs of the expat patient. Guidance and explaining the system were as important as concise translating, but above all patients were most comfortable if their healthcare was supervised for them. From day one Medicallink set up a coordination unit, now called Back-Ofce, to oversee every aspect of each clients healthcare and give qualiedadvice. The Back-Ofce arranges all interpreting interventions. It also acts as a contact point
for patients, doctors and health service staff. Their coordination skills, telephonic interventions, and attention to detail are what make this service so special. They work behind the scenes; arranging appointments, checkups and tests, sorting out paperwork, ensuring interpreters are properly briefed and that everything is in place for follow-up visits. Even clients admitted to hospital are monitored by the Back-Ofce. They intervene to help make the stay as stress free as possible by liaising with patients, wards staff, doctors and family members. Since 2004, Medicallink have helped patients at over 30,000 medical appointments and covered more than 200 operations. The whole team has built up very close working relationships with GPs, consultants and health service staff. Doctors, who rely on interpreter accuracy, are more condent working with interpreters with a proven track record. Naturally, its the patient who benets from this level of mutual respect and trust.
The Medicallink Subscription Programme is most suitable for people who need frequent medical appointments; those who take medication for chronic conditions or pre- and post- operation patients who require regular revisions and ongoing assistance. Medicallink also cater for people who join the programme for peace of mind; when you need to see your doctor its important to know that help is just a phone call away. Also, annual or bi-annual checkups are easily arranged. Remember, public healthcare services and nearly all prescribed medications are FREE for retired residents. Medicallink help you make full use of your entitlements.Their record of getting the best treatment available for clients is as exemplary as their knowledge of the Spanish public healthcare system. You can join the Medicallink programme for as little as 9 per month plus IVA. You could opt for full cover at 25 per month plus IVA, which covers all interpreting at health centres and hospitals regardless of how often you use the service.This is very reassuring, especially when you consider that it covers all Back-Ofce interventions and includes their transport costs and travel time. The service is ofcially registered and all Medicallink staff are legally employed. Interpreting interventions are itemized and charged through direct debit. Their due diligence and thoroughness make Medicallink the best option for healthcare interpreting and supervision. For information call Medicallink on 968 21 20 50 or email medicallink@ono.com
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Semana Santa is one of the most important estas in the Spanish calendar and this year takes place from 30th March to 8th April. Every city, town and village will have its own way of celebrating this religious festival. They are proud of their secular past and many places start the week off with early-morning processions with the participants dressing up in
sumptuous coloured clothes. Holy Week in Cartagena Like many towns, Cartagena and its people take this celebration very seriously and everyone seems to take part, including many relatives and visitors. The early morning processions are marked by the perfect synchrony of the cortges, the wonderfully colourful robes and the amazing carved images which are produce by the local people. There are processions during the whole week, the most striking being on the Holy Wednesday (known as Californios). The Friday morning procession depicts the meeting of the Christ of the Fishermen and his mother the Virgin Mary. This takes place in the Plaza del Lago (Marrajos). Holy Week in Lorca The exceptional originality of Lorcas Holy
Week lies in the succession of traditional processions, with their carved images and penitents, together with a Passion procession in which passages from the Old Testament are enacted, all of this with notable reminiscences of the former festivities of Corpus Christi and baroque religious theatres. The enacted biblical cortge takes place every Good Friday. This is truly magnicence and the processions are the result of the secular rivalry of the two most charismatic confraternities: the Whites, dedicated to Our Lady of Bitterness, and the Blues, who worship Our Lady of Sorrows. Holy Week in Murcia Easter celebrations start on the Friday before with the procession of the Most Holy Christ our Refuge (Santsimo Cristo del Amparo), one of the youngest confraternities in the city. Of note are the processions on Holy Monday, with the confraternity of Christ of Forgiveness (Cristo del Perdn); Holy Wednesday, with the popular procession of the coloraos and their Christ of the Blood, and Good Friday morning, when the unmistakeable sculptures of Francisco Salzillo take to the streets. Murcias Holy Week is marked by its baroque character, the huertano-style attire of its penitents, and the traditional custom during the processions of handing out sweets to friends and acquaintances. La noche de los Tambores in Mula and Moratalla From 3-8th April these towns in the northwest of Murcia celebrate the Passion amid the incessant pounding of drums. The tamboristas will have been practising for weeks prior to this festival. In Mula they are played from twelve oclock midnight on Tuesday to four oclock in the afternoon on Wednesday, to continue on Friday morning and Easter Sunday from twelve oclock midday to nine oclock at night. Bando de la Huerta in Murcia 10th April is the big day of the citys Spring Festival. The day begins early, with a oral offering to Our Lady of the Fuensanta, the patron saint of the city, before the baroque faade of the Cathedral. Thousands and thousands of Murcianos and visitors, dressed in typical huertano costume, accompany the Virgin after a short visit of the city centre. In the afternoon these same crowds will bring life to the grand cavalcade, through the citys streets, of ox-drawn carts, oats from which broad beans, black puddings and bread rolls are thrown to the crowd and folk bands from each and every one of the huertano associations. Entierro de la Sardina 14th April sees the Burial of the Sardine Festival. This is the, the climax of the Spring Festival, and is Murcias wackiest night of the year. During the procession of about 20 oats, people dressed up as gigantes and cabezudos, torch-bearers and entertainers, will throw hundreds of thousands of euros worth of toys into the crowd. There are various brass bands marching through the streets and on the eve of the Burial, the Testament of Doa Sardina is read from the balcony of the Town Hall. To round off the evening, a papiermch efgy of the Lenten sardine is burnt in Plano de San Francisco amid public rejoicing.
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If you are downsizing, moving house or just want to get rid of some clutter we can help. Try our 50/50 scheme. We can take anything from a single item to a full house contents. We will collect the larger items free of charge, display them in our shop to ensure that you receive the best possible price for them and then forward your 50% share of the proceeds to you wherever you are. Can we Help you and your Pet? Have you provided a home for an animal from a rescue centre or shelter for a stray dog or cat? Are you worried about the patter of tiny paws in the future (if not at your house maybe at your neighbours?) Well we are here to help you; we can provide nancial assistance towards the cost of spaying or castrating your new pet and also with those unexpected vet bills, if funds are available. Please contact us if you need help:Tel 666186037 or call at the shop Email mazarronanimalmedi-aid@hotmail.com
Dont Forget our Drop-Off Point (as seen on Google) Every Tuesday we are on Camposol Sector B car park 10.00-1.00pm opposite the petrol station.
DRIVERS BEWARE OF INCREASED RATES AND NEW FINES IN THE BLUE PARKING ZONES By Tina Tait Fifteen minutes of parking in the blue zone now costs double the rate of last years charges. Although the meters specied the rate increases with overlay labels, the lack of information took a lot of citizens who park regularly in blue zones by surprise. The ORA, (parking regulators), in charge of such matters failed to publicly announce the changes, shocking people, in many cases with 60 Euro nes that they were not expecting because they didnt think they were doing anything wrong.
Drivers beware when parking that you check what the new rates are when paying for a ticket at the parking machine. Maximum We will take any saleable items no matter time to park in a blue zone space is 3 hours.
how large or small. You might not need it, but we can sell it to raise money in order to help other people with the medical expenses for their cats and dogs Volunteers Needed We would appreciate some new volunteers in the shop. If you can spare the odd morning each week, like meeting new people, having a coffee and a chat contact us (at the shop or on the car park every Tuesday). Helping You Helping Animals Email mazarronanimalmedi-aid@hotmail. com Registered Charity No 9537/1a
In Spain, if you receive a parking ne, generally, it is possible to get it annulled within the rst hour of receipt of the ne, by submitting the ne along with your original ticket and proof of payment of the extra time (another ticket) in the ticket machine slot for this purpose. The rate increase is within the budgeted general increase in taxes, fees and public services that the City Council approved late last year to come into force in 2012.
To do this we need your donations and would be grateful for any items such as clothes, bric-a-brac, cds/dvds and electrical goods. You can donate at the shop, Mon to Sat 10.002.00pm (Take the third left after Barclays Bank on your way into Puerto de Mazarrn)
The Ex Servicemens Association of Mazarrn District (ESAMD) are meeting on 11th April for Menu del Dia at the Restaurante Marina, Puerto de Mazarrn (on the Paseo) at 2.30pm. Restaurante Marina is run by Chris and Steve formerly of Bar La Pea. The Function is open to all Members of ESAMD and invited guests. For more information contact by email esamd_espana@yahoo.co.uk or the Social Secretary on 968956058 or 690780429. Any Ex- service personnel wishing to join us to contact the Membership Secretary on 629818611.
Puerto Lumbreras Christian Fellowship now meets every 1st and 3rd Sunday each month at 11.00am in the premises of the Spanish Evangelical Church Puerto Lumbreras Tel 619453283 Paul and Sandra
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On Saturday 18th February The Evolutionists organised a walk along the coast from Bolnuevo. The 28 walkers were led by Jon and Joan who took us through the stunning bays and playas along this beautiful coastline to the remains of a Roman port. On the return, along a more elevated route, we heard from Pat about her daughters delightful humanist wedding ceremony which had been held among the palm trees there 10 years ago to the day. Everyone agreed that the walk had been a highly enjoyable, sociable and bracing experience. Lunch was taken at the Rincon de Elias in Mazarrn where Richard gave a brief explanation of the importance of the work of Charles Darwin and the recent discovery of some of his collection of slides in the British Geological Museum which had been missing for 150 years. Then Chris, a retired doctor who once worked in a Vietnamese refugee camp, gave a poignant description of how Christian donors of charity money wielded their power. Their aid was contingent upon the poor obeying the religious practices laid down by the donors and if the guidelines were not strictly adhered to, aid was stopped and the poor suffered.
Kitchen Chaos Moving into our new house in March had been a challenge, not least because of the fact that in common with many Spanish new builds, it came with an empty kitchen and utility room. Whilst this is great in one sense, as you can then build the kitchen that you really want, it also means that living there is tricky, to say the least! The trouble was, I had it all planned out. Overlap with our current rental villa, get the kitchen in, move in. The trouble was that the kids had other ideas, and on falling in love with the new house decided that the minute we had a water heater, we were moving in! My Mum said we were daft, and would nd it impossible to manage, but that incredible array of kitchen gadgets accumulated over the years has nally proved to be worth its weight in gold. The menu reads like a 5* restaurant, thanks to my childrens taste in food; the only downside being that I spend as much time preparing the food as Gordon Ramsays staff! Whats for lunch Mum? Cameron asked one Sunday. Slow cooked lamb, crisped in the paella pan with rosemary roast potatoes and baked asparagus with olive oil and Parmesan cheese. And for dessert? he asked as I ran between the indoor food gadgets and the outside kitchen. Had I had the time, I might have clipped him round the ear, but my hands were full of asparagus. At least things have improved with the warmer weather and the BBQ and paella pan are seeing more than their usual amount of use. It has been 4 weeks since we ordered the kitchen and we live in hope that we will hear something soon. To be honest, its not the oven and hob I miss the most its the cupboards and storage space, our current system being a series of boxes on the kitchen oor. My revenge for the time being? The answer to the question What is there for a snack? in our house has become the family joke. Whatever you can nd on the kitchen oor! Liz Edmiston runs OwnersAway Property Rentals & Management offering a full range of services to property owners on the Costa Calda. Contact Liz on 691977107 or info@ ownersaway.com for more information or visit the website www.ownersaway. com to view the full range of properties and services.
The March walk was near San Juan de los Terreros on Saturday 17th. Our next walk is on Saturday 21st April in the Mazarrn area. All details are available from our website www.bolnuevo.com
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VIAL Deco MURCIA 2 SHOPS IN 1 VIAL Carpinterias Murcia has been reformed and updated and now brings you the range for the entire VIAL Deco to help you decorate your home. VIAL Carpinterias, carpentry is the number one French group discount store and has over 60 outlets in France, 4 in Spain and 2 in Portugal. VIAL Carpinterias Murcia is located in Cobatillas, near the Nueva Condomina and you can nd everything you need for your home including: Windows, doors, kitchens, appliances, bathroom furniture, iron gates, air conditioning, garden furniture, canopies .... and there is now a new range,
Vial Deco, for all your interior decoration, always at unbeatable prices. VIAL Carpinterias makes both windows and doors in PVC, aluminum and wood in its factories located in France, Spain and Romania. These facilities allow the products to have a value far beyond any other competitor. You can nd wooden windows from 40 and ready to install doors from 38. In VIAL Carpinterias, you can reform your home at amazingly low prices. Do you want to update your terrace or garden? New for this summer VIAL Carpinterias, Murcia has all the products to help you achieve a stunning outdoor area. You will nd a wide range of outdoor furniture such as pergolas, awnings, couches and chairs
at special VIAL prices. The family spirit of VIAL Carpinterias makes the close relationship with the customer an essential part of their business, meaning that advice and compliance is a priority. VIAL Carpinterias, Murcia has an excellent reputation and their products are constantly updated. Seeking to assist their clients, they have a home delivery service throughout the province of Murcia. Do not wait; come and visit VIAL Carpinterias, Murcia, where the professional team will show you the latest products for this summer.
The centre continues to grow daily and recently we have had some wonderful meetings with guest mediums from various parts of Spain and people interested in the philosophy of Spiritualism as well as evidence of survival. We are thrilled to announce that international physic medium and spiritual healer Barbara Almond will be with us in April. Barbara has had the gift of spiritual awareness and clairvoyance since childhood, the gift being handed down to her from her grandmother .She has years of experience and has appeared on Channel 4 television as well as radio programmes both in England and here in Spain. Barbara has worked in other areas of Spain twice a year for several years, giving demonstrations and workshops. Barbara will giving a demonstration of clairvoyance to help raise funds for the The Beacon of Light on 24th April at the Condado de Alhama club function room. This will start at 8pm with doors closing at 7.45pm. Barbara will be taking the Wednesday meeting at the centre which is held at the Old School House at Caadas del Romero at 7pm . She will also be doing a workshop which will be A Day of Angels on Thursday the 26th April at the centre. This will be from 10.00am to approx 4.00 pm and promises to be once again another uplifting day and will give people the chance to develop their spiritual awareness. To reserve tickets for the fundraising event at Condado de Alhama on the 24th April at 7 or the workshop on the 26th April which are 15 or for further information please call 620877326 or email beacon.of.light. murcia@gmail.com or visit our website http://beaconoightmurcia.webs.com/
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The economy remains in a slump throughout Spain and the predictions over the next four years is that just over half a million owners will lose their property. This is terrible news for the owners, but equally as important is that its not great news for people wanting to sell. The banks will be ooded with properties which in turn keeps the house prices low. The prediction for 2012 is that around 135,000 people will lose their homes not good reading! The one thing I hear every now and again is the question What do I do when I have a For Sale board and someone knocks on the door and wants to look round. These door knockers will always have a convincing storyline and one of the best
is We dont want to get involved with an agent well, this is because they think they can buy it cheaper direct, and yes they can, as I expect most of you would want to do a deal. Well, rstly, never let the clients in to have a look round however nice they may seem! I cant go into enough reasons why not, but needless to say you are opening yourselves wide to scams and even burglaries! We always advise clients to politely tell the door knocker to contact the agent direct, or you call the agent and we can speak to the customer. In most instances, the agent will be able to meet them at the house fairly quickly. In these difcult times when some people are desperate to sell, we need to keep our wits about us. If you have employed an agent
to sell your house, then let them sell it. Why would you ask an agent to sell your property and then think you can sell it to door knocker? Sounds harsh, but think before you invite people into your home! We are always looking for properties on Mazarrn Country Club and Puerto de Mazarrn, so if you have a property to sell, please contact us. For more information on buying or selling property contact Jennie or Sue at Best of Spanish info@bestofspanish.com or Email telephone (0034) 635 434 651 or 646 692 471.
by Tina Tait The Murcian regional government is preparing to reform the local healthcare system. Figures show that the Murcia Healthcare Service is 1.000 million Euros in debt. The regional government plans to cut 200 million Euros to adjust their accounts to try to contain the debt. The cuts will target primary care, reducing the amount of family doctors in each of the healthcare clinics in the region. Statistics show a decline in population and according to the minister, Palacios Angeles, there is a need to reduce the number of practising doctors in order to compensate for the debt.
For the rst time the population has declined in Murcia, thereby lowering the number of health cards. Family physicians function in tandem with the cards, and if we have less, then we need fewer family doctors. Doctors under review will have the option to be relocated depending on demand for care. Last month, new work hours were mandated to 37.5 hours per week and the closure of clinics on Saturday. It is estimated that changing the work hours will save an additional 30 million Euros. However, this will leave some 400 temporary workers, (mostly assistants and nurses) out of a job. The new proposals for cuts made for the pharmaceutical industry and medicines, will save another 40 million. Savings in drug costs are between 15 and 20 million. Hospital staff are asked to be more comprehensive in pharmacy spending, and be more efcient in the consumption of gas, electricity and telephone usage. All these new measures to downsize the healthcare system will hopefully total a savings of 90 million Euros.
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Ill believe it when I see it. How many times have we said these words? As our Church led the Christmas Carols on each of the Camposol sectors last December, we did our version of the 12 Camposol Days of Christmas. I encouraged the crowds to say these exact words every time we came to the rst day of Christmas and our true love had given to us a VIP pass into the proposed Paramount Theme Park. Well, the papers were signed on March 7th and things seem to be progressing, but from the Autovia that runs alongside the allocated land there is no sign of anything being done there yet. We could say the same about Corvera Airport which has been supposedly opening since 2006; in fact one guy at Wellspring Church said to me that he will believe that the Paramount Park has been built when
he stands in the queue to buy his entrance ticket!! Just because we cannot see something physically, does not mean that nothing is happening and hindsight is such a wonderful thing; we can then look back and see all the things slotting into place just like a jigsaw being completed to show the nished picture. Very often we sense the frustration in the lives of others, and even in our own lives, of gazing on this unnished puzzle, and wondering if the thing we are waiting on will ever come to fruition. I attended the Men of Vision Espaa, mens conference in March, which was held at Pilar de la Horadada. The guys had a great day together and something was said by our speaker from Colorado USA that has stuck in my mind and which prompted the content this article. Jeff Lucas said these words, Just because we are sleeping, does not mean that God is not working. Fascinating, because we so often beat ourselves up over not doing enough, praying enough and God forbid, sleeping while others are struggling with situations. This is not saying that we should not care. It means that we can entrust Gods help in the situations of our hearts and know that we can leave things in His hands talk about taking the pressure off! Often, things are happening in our lives and we cannot see the end from the beginning; so many times when we are going through difcult circumstances, it seems that nothing is happening to help the situation we nd ourselves in. Can I encourage you to pray and leave God to speak into other peoples lives so they can come alongside you and help you in your time of need its amazing how this works, but it does. Maybe you have said about God helping you Ill believe it when I see it, and you have not seen all that is, or has, happened in the background to help you through your situation why does that person just turn up when you needed them or the phone rung just at the very time you needed that word of encouragement? Rest assured, God loves you, exactly the same and as much as He loves me. Easter is only a few days away and we will be remembering the huge sacrice that Jesus made for every one of us. Before we loved Him, He loved us. This is the good news that the Bible teaches us; that even when we did not give two hoots about God, or Jesus, He loved us with an everlasting love and wanted to provide a way for us to draw close to Him and know His love in an intimate way. Whatever the world thinks about you, my message this Easter is dont wait until you see Him face to face Trust in Him now... it will be a life-changing decision. Wellspring Church will be holding an open air service on the Paseo, Puerto de Mazarrn [by the marina], on Good Friday morning, commencing 11am for an hour. Please join us as we celebrate together this special day.
I cannot remember being this busy for a long time. I am not complaining; it is great to see more activity in the area, but I really did struggle to get around to everyone this month. Apologies to those that I did not get to; you are on the list for next month. I often preferred to meet friends in a wine bar in the UK rather than a pub, so I was delighted to see the opening of Le Gourmet, the new wine/champagne bar in Puerto de Mazarrn. The proprietor Yoann, who is French, but speaks perfect English, will make you most welcome. If you remember to take the advert with you from this months edition of the Costa Clida Chronicle, Yoann will give you a free rell when you buy a glass of wine or champagne. In addition to this, he has some excellent French pats which can be sampled as tapas. Le Gourmet also has just had a delivery of novelty chocolate animals in time for Easter. Be quick though, they will soon go! Vial Carpinterias can be found just outside Murcia in the Cobatillas region. This store really needs to be visited to be appreciated as they have some excellent products at very reasonable prices. If you are thinking of changing internal or external doors for example they have a very wide selection to choose from. They also sell canopies, awnings, pergolas, barbecues, garden furniture and even solar showers. Ask for Jerome; he speaks uent English. The former Indian Restaurant Bollywood on Camposol B has changed hands and is now The Quality Indian Restaurant. We often
opt for an Indian takeaway (diet depending) on a Friday, so decided to sample their offerings on their opening night. They have a completely new menu so it will take several weeks to get through, but rst impressions were very good. The new owner Dilip Patel bent over backwards to make us welcome and offered a free drink whilst we were waiting and you get a free bottle of wine with your takeaway order. The cheese and onion naan bread I tried was stuffed rather than just decorated on the top; delicious! Apologies to Dave at Decklid in the March article. The diesel head gadget that Decklid now sell is to prevent accidentally lling a petrol car with diesel not the other way around as I had reported previously. You can put this down to women drivers and the fact that I probably should buy one! Sorry Dave. More next month, Teresa
Wines of the Month chosen by Yoann from Le Gourmet Wine Bar, Puerto de Mazarrn
This excellent white wine Muscadet received the gold prize in Paris in 2011. At only 6 this is amazing value.
For a red wine, this Bordeaux Premius 2006 is also only 6. It also received a prize in Paris in 2011 and will compliment any meal. Why not buy something different for your loved one this Easter? Le Gourmet has some beautiful Artisanal chocolate animals such as frogs, ducks, tortoises and rabbits.
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CONTAINER GARDENING By Clodagh and Dick Handscombe practical g a r d e n ers authors and broadcasters living in Spain for almost twenty ve years. CONTAINER GARDENING IS The growing of owering plants, fruit trees bushes and plants, herbs and vegetables in any receptacle that can contain a rich earth/ compost mix. Naturally containers include plant pots, window boxes, wooden tubs, wooden or metal growing tables, the large tubs up to a metre in diameter which are used to store palm trees in nurseries and many more. Indeed we have found the following planted with a wide range of plants; ve and seven litre water bottles, old baths, lifeboat covers, abandoned open roofed cars, dentist chairs , boxes knocked up from heavy old doors, large paint drums, cut back plastic and metal drums/barrels of all sizes large paint drums, lengths of large diameter concrete and plastic water tubing. The advantages are that you can grow anything in places where you have little or poor soil, such as apartment terraces and balconies, roof tops, patios, terraces, along the drive, under large mature trees, in the north facing front porch, on soil that is 50% builders rubble, solid rock and indeed any unused space or corner . Containers can be placed as individual containers or in groups including ten-tub vegetable and fruit gardens as described in our books Growing Healthy Fruit in Spain and Growing Healthy Vegetables in Spain.
Some ideas to start with A collection of succulents in small and medium sized pots on a south facing terrace. A collection of geraniums in larger pots in the semi shade of a pergola. A collection of fast-spreading mint herbs in large containers to prevent them smothering each other in the open ground. A collection of mixed plants in a variety of containers to brighten up our south-facing semi- shaded covered terrace where we have many meals through out the year. Glazed pots hanging on the house walls on upper terraces where there is little space for containers on the oor. Window boxes of geraniums petunias and portulacas on window sills and hanging on terrace railings. A window box with tomatoes planted and hanging through holes in the base with petunias growing normally on the soil surfacea convenient way of improving the productivity of small spaces. A plastic base of a dog kennel left at the tip, used as a mini-raised bed for salad vegetables. A three square metre rst oor terrace. Ours has yielded twenty varieties of vegetables and is illustrated in Apartment gardening Mediterranean Style. Some advantages of container gardening: 1. Can be done by anyone from the learner child gardener to the frustrated enthusiastic gardener now living in an apartment, and to the inrm unable to cope with normal gardening activities. 2. Reduced volumes of good soil and or compost mixes required. 3. Controlled and economic use of water.
4. 5.
6.
7. 8.
Make use of any space. A convenient solution for areas of solid rock, shallow soil, uninteresting concrete and chipping areas, terraces, balconies and roof tops. Brightens up the coastal wall of high rise apartment blocks. The best blocks looking like a perpetual Hanging Garden of Babylon. Low maintenance time required. You can move them into a temporary shelter during the coldest winter months. We line a round metal gazebo with plastic to over-winter our most tender plants.
Some success factors: 1. Impervious containers that minimise water loss by evaporation. Terracotta containers are best internally painted with an impermeable water-proof paint or plastic bag with a drainage hole. 2. Drainage holes to prevent water logging. 3. Containers lled with a rich mix of peat or turf-based composts into which is mixed twenty to thirty percent of a rich kitchen/garden rubbish-based compost, dried animal manure or a worm compost now often available in garden centres. 4. Regular watering to keep root balls damp. Drip irrigation systems with timers are best for groups or lines of containers and enables absentee owners to maintain container gardens and collections. 5. Top up the nutrient content of the soil by a monthly watering with a dilute liquid feed and an annual thin mulching with worm compost. We know of one pot and potty garden that has some hundred plants planted in glazed and lined terracotta pots and old potties and all are fertilised once a week with a ten to one dilution of collected night waters otherwise referred to as pee. What can be more ecological or economic than that than that! 6. Plant up with plants suitable for the amount of sun and wind exposure in their planned position. For many plants a semi-shaded position or a situation that is shaded from the four hours of hottest sun is best. You will nd many other ideas for container gardening in our books Apartment Gardening Mediterranean Style and Growing Healthy Vegetables in Spain.
Clodagh and Dick Handscombe www.gardeninginspain.com
SI BAR GEE HAH ON! A race night was held for HAH Help at Home at the SI BAR, La Manga Club on March 8th to thank them for supporting Steve Sutcliffe during his wifes illness. Steve said The support we received both at home and in hospital was priceless, and the friendships which developed helped us both so much and gave Elva tremendous strength, courage and support towards the end. He added With the fantastic help of Chris London, Mike Hughes, John Ashley Chase, Graham Walker and many others, we decided to put together this event to say thank you for the amazing help, care and support HAH give, not only to us, but to so many others.
put so much effort into making the night such a success, we cannot thank them enough. LUZ DE MURCIA LODGE LADIES NIGHT Members and guests of the LUZ de MURCIALODGE attended a Dinner Dance at the Traina Hotel in Lo Pagan. Following a champagne reception, 120 people sat down to a sumptuous 7 course meal with wine in the beautifully prepared dining room. This years hosts, Worshipful Master Paul Eburne and his wife thanked everyone for coming along to make the evening so special. Mr Eburne added The atmosphere was absolutely fantastic and it was like the Paris Fashion Week with all the beautiful evening wear.
bed, just a few hours before they came down for a fantastic full breakfast, most still smiling and singing along. A superb rafe with a lot of the prizes being donated by local businesses raised 1,250 for HAH Help at Home and El Samaritano. Volunteers We have helped, and are currently helping a tremendous amount of people in the Mar Menor area who are struggling to cope at home following illness. We would dearly love to be able to help more. To achieve this, we need more volunteers to join our team. Can you help us to help them; perhaps just a few hours when it is convenient for you? Our help line is open between 9.30-5pm Mon-Friday only (not weekends).Tel 633673034. Outside these hours you would need to contact your Doctor, or ask your local chemist for advice on medication, or telephone the emergency services on 112. Unfortunately, we cannot give nancial help, sort out insurance problems, travel arrangements, nor are we an emergency service. For other problems you may need to contact the British Consul on 902109356. There are many other charities to contact who deal with more specic problems such as, Age Concern, Stroke Support, Alzheimers, Cancer, etc., Please see local media for details. If you would like to volunteer your help, please contact Angela on 603517770, or email helpathomespain@gmail.com
2nd left, Organiser Chris London, Bottom Right Steve Sutcliffe with volunteers Lesley Eburne (HAH) said We were very happy to be asked to help Steve and Elva, and during that time we all became very close. It was so sad to lose such a lovely friend, but she will never be forgotten and Steve and Chris are now planning events on behalf of HAH in memory of Elva. This event and the money raised was unbelievable and they all
Please tell our customers where you saw their advertisement in the Costa Clida Chronicle Please tell our customers where you saw their advertisement in the Costa Clida Chronicle
To place an advertisement with us please see page 5 or contact Teresa 619 199 407 To place an advertisement with us please see page 5 or contact Teresa 619 199 407
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Racegoers enjoy the Curry night at the Si Bar, La Manga Club A team was put together to help with the betting etc., and after a superb curry supper enjoyed by approx 130 people, the racing got under way, with Chris London making sure everything (unfortunately not some of the horses)!! ran smoothly. Many horses had already been sponsored by local businesses and at the end of the night a staggering 2125 was raised for HAH.
Guests enjoy Showaddywaddy Legend Showaddywaddy Legend were the entertainment for the evening, and they had the whole room dancing or singing along until the early hours, when most guests eventually retired to
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A HOSPITAL VISITOR I met with Thelma Manning, the co-coordinator for HELP Murcia Mar Menors volunteer hospital visitors in the main entrance of the new Los Arcos hospital just off the AP7. Hospital visitors are identied with a badge with their photo on and a certicate signed by the hospital Director which allows them to visit patients. We found an elderly lady who was very ill surrounded by her family. On one occasion there were 14 English-speaking patients to visit which took the two visitors quite a while but was very fullling. They see how patients are managing and, if a translator is required, they inform them of the procedure.
Magazines are distributed, as patients prefer them to books. There is a shortage of mens magazines for the male patients (not the ones from the top shelf!). They also have Spanish magazines so that if patients share a room with a Spanish person they can be offered magazines as well. Often patients tell them what they are in hospital for, and if they are suffering from cancer they are offered a MABS leaet. A lot of people come out of hospital unable to walk and are offered mobility equipment for loan, and can be put in touch with other sources of assistance. Patients are visited twice a week, usually Tuesdays and Thursdays. The visitors approach the patients, say they are from HELP MMM and ask if there is anything that they can do for them. Many people have nobody to visit them; they may live alone in Spain or may have been taken off a plane with, for example, a stroke, and they are always pleased to hear an English voice. There is a free translation service in the hospital. You go to the desk wherever your appointment is with your appointment slip, and ask them if you can have a translator. Hospital visitors can also put patients in contact with the hospitals Social Services. There is a social worker at Los Arcos, who can help patients and their families with information and referral where necessary to other departments, if assistance is needed, and can be contacted via the patients nurse or doctor
or directly by phone on 968565009 or internally on ext 970031. They are located at the Patients Service ofce at the main entrance from 10am to 1pm Monday to Friday except for bank holidays. Thelma would like to hear from anyone willing to join the team and particularly from gentlemen, so that male patients can feel more at ease. The only qualication needed is to like people, have a sympathetic ear and commonsense. If you Thelma with a patient are interested please call the ofce on 968570059 and leave your contact details. Why not come and join them? They are a friendly bunch and will make you welcome and you will be doing something rewarding and enlightening. You come away feeling that you have really helped and brightened someones day as well as your own.
Thelma Manning
Transported Back in Time HELP Murcia Mar Menor members and friends were transported back to the wartime at the Forties Night held at The Lodosol Restaurant, San Pedro on 1st March. We were entertained by several very talented singers belting out the old songs which unfortunately we all knew and sang along with, rolling back the years and revealing our ages! Memories were exchanged about the bombings, sheltering in the underground, and children being dispersed. Hard times remembered but mingled with fond memories of strong community bonds.
SMITHY belting it out Before the meal, owers were presented to all presidents past and present. Music that got people dancing was provided by Smithy and a wonderful Spanish singer, Suzanne, entertained with a dramatic and artistic performance of Spanish and English songs. A total of 685 was raised on the Grand Rafe with the majority of the prizes also being donated by Lady Elisabeth Hebdige. The rafe for the electric reclining chair, supplied by Paymar of Los Belones, raised 317 and was won by Eileen Cobb of Mar Menor Golf Resort. In addition, a new wheelchair to the value of 230 was donated by a few of the residents of the La Manga Club. Our thanks go to the staff at Roblemar, Bernard Ash for his great job as MC, Mick Donnelly as our ofcial photographer and, of course, our sponsor Lady Elisabeth Hebdige. As ever, no event gets organised without some considerable effort. That was provided by Tricia Brister, Janice Clarke, Maggie Milne and Joan Mitchell. The event was one of many planned by the fundraising team to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of HELP. Please visit our website for photos and details of events: www.helpmurciamarmenor.org
to include chicken, chips and peas. Friday 20th Spring Fte @ the Arches Restaurant, The Oasis to include a fashion show, Morris dancers, stalls and tombola. 2pm. Friday 27th Friendship Group Meeting @ the Cafe Golf at 12pm with a beauty demonstration EVERY MONDAY: HOY (card) Bingo 2pm @ La Zona Bar, Los Alcazares. Free entrance. 1 a Game. The HELP MMM Car Boot is at the Sunday Market at the Autocine, Los Narejos brica-brac always needed please! Tickets for events are available from Joan Mitchell on 868185685 or 678135457, Janice Clarke on 968134355 and the HELP ofce on 968570059
Our next event was a Variety Show at Teatro Dolores, Dolores Pacheco on 24th March when The Crazy Ladies, the Flamenco for all Spanish Dancers directed by Raquel Pena and Terry Morgan entertained us. On 14th April at 7.30pm we have Sing Along with Ron at Luis Lounge at the Caravan Club, San Javier, when there will also be a demonstration of jiving and a meal of chicken and chips, all for 7.50. We have a good time and raise money as well, whats not to like! Tenth Anniversary Bash As part of HELP Murcia Mar Menors 10th Anniversary celebrations, a highly successful Dinner/Dance was enjoyed by over one hundred members and friends of HELP at the Roblemar Restaurante, Los Alcazares. The event was on 24th February and was generously sponsored by our Honorary Patron Lady Elisabeth Hebdige. It really was an occasion of DJs and evening dresses.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS April Tuesday 10th HELP MMMs General Meeting at Las Claras at 12pm. Tuesday 10th Charity Market @ La Zona Bar, Los Alcazares 112pm. Saturday 14th Sing Along with Ron plus demonstration of jiving @ Luis Lounge, Camping la Encina, San Javier 7.30 for 8pm. Tickets 7.50
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A Bevy of Land Girls - Many people had made the effort to dress up; there was a bevy of land girls, a mob of naughty schoolboys with holes in their clothes, a spiv dressed as Tommy Trinder and Rene from Allo Allo accompanied by ze lady who tells you zis only once. There was even a lady blacked up as Al Johnson. We did the two most popular dances during the forties, which I bet you didnt know were the hokey cokey and the conga, and showed ourselves up generally. The food was excellent; the pork chop I had would have fed a family of ve back in the old days. Thanks to Tony and Jan of the Lodosol for putting on a super meal and entertainment. The Charity made a grand total of 224 on the night to help us continue our good work.
The younger faces of HELP
HARRODS SALE DAY ATMOSPHERE AT NEW MABS CANCER SUPPORT SHOP On 2nd March, MABS Cancer Support Group opened the doors of its second retail outlet in San Javier. Although the new shop didnt open until 10.00am, people were queuing before 9.00am to make sure that they bagged the items of their choice. We were amazed said Manager, Sue Thomason. We had worked hard to get everything in place to start trading and were still putting the nal touches to the store when people arrived.
donating any used furniture that they collect to MABS. Its a great of way of recycling and wed love to hear from other businesses who would like to do the same.
The new store mainly sells top quality, second-hand furniture and household goods, alongside bric-a-brac, books, CDs and DVDs. After the success of the rst two days trading, MABS is keen to re-stock and is able to collect large items, as well as offering a delivery service on large purchases. If you have items to donate, give them a call on 615 016 035 or call into the shop, which is next door to the MABS Cancer Centre, Avenida de la Unin 60, San Javier. Were very lucky to have the support of Fred and Diane Lowe at The Furniture Store on the Polgono Industrial Los Alczares remarked Sue. When they deliver new furniture to customers, they are
MABS Murcia Director, Lyn Baines commented: I congratulate Sue and her team for a fantastic job getting the new store ready in record time. We signed the contracts on 18 February and were ready for trading on 2 March; Im very proud of them. MABS Murcia is a registered charity (No. 7261) offering help and support to local people of all nationalities who have been diagnosed with or are being treated for cancer. If you or someone you know would like some condential help or support call our HELPLINE693 275 779 or visit the website: www.mabsmurcia.com Photographer: Jean Weller
This month, we look at CHANGE and how it can affect our lives and those dear to us in more ways than one. As we all know, our lives are changing constantly, forcing us to make pleasant or unpleasant decisions. Needless to say, planned change is more favourable as it gives us more control over our circumstances but sometimes the decision to make a life changing decision is not ours to make alone. We have to take into consideration the affect on others for every action also brings about a reaction to this planned change. Decisions made in haste or in confusion can be disastrous. So my advice to help you cope with change is to think carefully about its ramications, its pros and cons. This way, you will be making an informed decision rather than be a victim of the circumstances of your life. Dear Jennifer, AM I BEING SELFISH TO TRY FOR A BABY AT 45? My partner and I have children from previous marriages, but lately I have become broody again and want a baby to cement our relationship. My partner is adamant that he does not want any more children, but I cant get it out of my mind and it is becoming an obsession, especially when I see other younger mums with their children. Am I being selsh? Joan Dear Joan, It is not a matter of being selsh or not, but rather the reasons for wanting a baby and how this will affect the relationship with your partner. Having a baby is a personal decision and should be made by both of you. Having a baby should not be the excuse or reason given to cement your relationship. Needless to say, a new baby at 45 (or at any age) is going to change your lives as you now know it.
Think back about the changes you had to make to your life when you had your other children and if you are prepared to make similar changes with a new baby, and then go for it. Interestingly, many women have opted for late pregnancies. To name a few, swimmer Sharon Davies had her baby at 44, movie stars Geena Davis and Holly Hunter each had twins at 48 and 47 respectively, and choreographer Arlene Phillips had a baby at 47. The real crux of the issue is whether you feel that having a baby is the right for you at this point of your life and (more importantly) whether you and your partner can give the child a stable upbringing. Personally, I think you both need to discuss this matter privately before making such an important and life changing decision. I cant do that for you. Jennifer Dear Jennifer, TATS NOT COOL My boyfriend is thinking of getting a tattoo and some body piercings. I am not against the idea, but I object to the tattoo design that he is thinking of having. To say the least, it is huge and hideous. I cant help thinking that I will have to see this visible horror every day and it is making me change my feelings for him. Also, its a lot of money and will take up to four two hour sessions to complete. I know that it is none of my business, but he wants me to go with him for support. What should I tell him? Sue Dear Sue, Sorry to bring up this clich, but dont you think that Honesty is the best policy? Sit him down and tell him that while you are prepared to support his decision to get a tattoo, that you feel that the design may
not be suitable. At the end of the day, it is your boyfriends body and his decision to make, but at least he will be aware of your feelings. You could visit the tattoo artist together and perhaps look at other designs available. Seek also the artistic advice of the tattooist regarding the size, position and symbolism of the design. At the end of the day, it is his decision to make, not yours. You never know, his hideous tattoo may actually look good on him. Jennifer Jennifer Rahman is a life coach and holistic therapist. If you would like Jennifer to answer any of your problems, please email her at jennifer@lifemaxxinternational. com. Condentiality is respected and no details are shared or sold to third parties.
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Peka is a beautiful Golden Retriever cross and is 18 months old. He is chipped, vaccinated and neutered. Peka is good with other dogs, cats and children and he is also house trained and is a gentle dog. Call: 645469253 Gypsy and Jazz were born about 4/1/12 and will be small dogs when fully grown. They are both female, very friendly and vaccinated. Call: 659274573
This beautiful cat is approx 2 years old. She is chipped, spayed, fully vaccinated and has a passport. She is loving and friendly and just likes to sleep and play. Call: 608383286 To view more animals for adoption go to www.petsinspain.com To advertise an animal for adoption email: info@petsinspain.info
RCT clean windows perfectly, without using ladders (except for access if needed). They use poles, brushes and pure water only. It is stressed, that the water used is not tap water. The water is passed through our machinery and then run through the resin in our van, to bring it to its pure form. It is so pure that you can also drink this water. When the water is applied on the windows, they are cleaned (including the frames) and then left to dry naturally. This guarantees the nished windows, are spot and streak free. It makes no difference how hot it may be in the sun, the windows still dry perfectly.
RCTs company motto is simple: If you are not happy with the nished product, dont pay, but we are 100% condent, that you will be more than happy, not just with the quality of the work, but the price as well. We also pride ourselves on reliability and rmly believe that we have the full package for the customer, be it for a villa / apartment / townhouse / shop front / hotel / garage / anything. We can access up to 30 feet high, without the use of ladders and would happily look at higher, up to a maximum of 50 feet, again, without the use of ladders. For more information, please call Graham or Laura on 634372858
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The Romans One writer said that the Carthaginians greatest legacy to Cartagena was that they attracted the Romans. Certainly with the Roman conquest of the town in 209 BC, we enter a period in which Cartagenas relative importance and splendour reached remarkable heights. The Carthaginian presence in Spain was now effectively over, especially when the fall of Cadiz completed the Roman takeover of Iberia in 206 BC.
In 209 BC Carthaginian Qart-Hadast became Roman Carthago Nova. However, there appears to have been one minor difculty at the very time of the towns taking. Traditionally, the rst Roman to raise the standard on a conquered citys walls was rewarded with a gold crown. At Cartagena, this was claimed by two individuals with the army supporting the claim of one, and the navy that of the other. It almost came to a ght, before the Roman leader, Scipio, sorted it out by saying it had been a dead heat and both would be rewarded in the traditional fashion. Carthago Nova became the only town in the Empire whose conquest saw the award of two crowns! The rst years of Roman domination seem to have been years of consolidation. There were several thousand prisoners to be dealt with and it seems that Carthaginians were sent to the mines or the galleys while the native population was set free and even invited to join the Roman army.
These early years undoubtedly saw numerous military sorties from Carthago Nova and a strengthening of the towns defences. In one such expedition, Scipio decided to take revenge for the slaughter of Roman soldiers some years previously and put to death all the inhabitants of the town of Iliturgi, razing it to the ground and sowing the land with salt. Carthago Novas importance was clear: it soon became one of the principal Spanish ports for the movement of goods (and people) into the Iberian Peninsula and for the export of materials throughout the Mediterranean. When, in 197 BC, Rome divided Iberia into two great provinces, Ulterior and Citerior, Carthago Nova was incorporated in the latter, the capital of which was Tarragona. However, those in charge of the province appear to have spent rather more time in Carthago Nova because of its riches and greater proximity to North Africa. It appears also, that many Italians came to the town, attracted by the prospect of exploiting the nearby mining (40,000 slaves were said to be working in the mines around Cartagena and Mazarrn which became known as the minas de Carthago Nova), administration opportunities and business associated with the port.
brilliance in its entire history. It was, at this time, one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire with buildings and works of art to rival those in Rome itself. Industry and commerce prospered, much on the back of mining, but there was also the production of a famous sh sauce, garum, much prized throughout the Roman world, especially in Rome itself. Cartagena was the port for this valuable commoditys export. We shall not dwell on the fact that it was made essentially from the fermented entrails of sh! Cartagenas importance can be judged from the fact that patrons of the magnicent new theatre built during these years were no other than Caius and Lucius, the grandsons of the Emperor Augustus. How large was Carthago Nova? It is impossible to say with any accuracy, but one authoritative source suggests a population of between 20,000 and 30,000. Another indicator of its importance is the massive remodelling of the city which took place in this period a geometric layout of streets; reconstruction of the city walls; the building of the theatre (using experts and materials from Rome and with a capacity of 6-7000 spectators), the amphitheatre (able to house 10,000 spectators), temples and many other public buildings with sophisticated wall paintings, sculptures and mosaics; and even the development of a drainage and water supply system for some parts of the city. One of the most important events for Cartagena in this period was the granting of the rank of colony in 42 BC with the name Colonia Urbs Iulia Nova Carthago appearing on subsequent coins. The city would have adopted a system of institutional Government identical to that in Italian cities of the time and would have had total administrative autonomy, benetting from all the privileges of a Roman city. Cartagena also played a full part in the Roman history of the time. During civil war which aficted the Empire, it was taken by Pompey in 47 BC, and when Caesar triumphed
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It was during the period between the middle of the 1st Century BC and the beginning of the 2nd Century AD that Carthago Nova is generally regarded as achieving the greatest
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two years later, Cartagena was the place chosen to bring together the representatives of Roman Government in Spain to work out the future. It was during these years that many inhabitants of the city were granted the status of Roman Citizen. The progressive Romanisation saw an extensive road network established with ve major Roman roads focussing on Cartagena including the famous Via Augusta, which went from Marseilles to near Seville.
in the city in the middle of the century as he sought to recover territories in North Africa. There was, however, still time for one nal twist before the Romans disappeared for ever. While it seems clear that Cartagena became part of the Visigoth Kingdom in Spain from the later 5th Century, in the middle of the 6th Century, the Emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium), Justinian the Great, was seeking to recover former territories of the old Roman Empire. He took advantage of a dispute between the Visigoth King of Spain, Agila, and his rival, Atanagildo, successfully to ally with the victorious latter, and, in return, receive an extensive coastal territory in Spain from Cadiz to near Valencia. This area formed the new province of Spania, with Cartagena its capital. For around 70 years, from about 552 AD, Cartagena remained under Byzantine control. There was something of a revival in the city to judge by the increased commercial links with the East and Africa, the greater production of ceramics and the possession of its own mint. The city defences appear to have been restored around 589-90 AD. The end came in the early 7th Century when the Visigoth King Suntila took Cartagena in about 621 AD, leaving the city, it would seem, largely in ruins in favour of surrounding villages, with obscurity following for the next two or three centuries.
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As history clearly teaches us, nothing is forever, and decline set in during the 2nd Century AD. Mining began to decay, taxes were more onerous, greater peace meant troop withdrawals and there was less local wealth available for public works and buildings. The occupied area of the city declined as did its commerce. It was not until the end of the 4th Century that the decline began to reverse. Even so, Cartagena retained some importance when the Emperor Diocletian (the only Roman Emperor to give up his position peacefully!) reformed the Empires administration, Spain was divided into seven provinces with Carthago Nova the capital of one of them. The recognition of Christianity, and its adoption as the ofcial religion of the Empire towards the end of the 4th Century, also helped Cartagena which became an Episcopal see. By this time, however, the Roman Empire was declining and, at the end of the century it was divided into an Eastern and Western component. A little later, tribes from the north crossed the Pyrenees and the Vandals are believed by some to have temporarily occupied Cartagena in 425 under their leader, Idacio. Even so, it is not clear that these years saw a fundamental change in Cartagena and there was even time for one of the Emperors of the Western Empire, Mayoriano, to become the last one to set foot
Article by Clive and Rosie Palmer, who have written several guide books on towns and regions in Murcia. These can be seen at, and obtained from, www.lulu.com, or contact clive.palmer5@btinternet.com. Copies of some of the books may also be available from the Best Wishes shop in the Camposol Urbanizacin.
Welcome Present AECC with Cheque The Welcome Group have been taking men and women to the AECC (cancer screening services) in Murcia for mammograms, smears and prostrate tests for many years and were very honoured when they were made honorary members. This service is available for all people who support Welcome at their events.
told Rosemary to put her name down for next year. Cosmopolitan Magazine here we come! Thanks to Pat Hankinson on the mike, and to all the stall holders. Music was by Martin Ross who soon had the dance oor full. I wasnt there, of course, but Fran made notes and didnt shut up until about two in the morning (just kidding, it was nearer one). Our March Dance saw the welcome return of Kevin Tyler and for the rst time in this area, J J Soulman. Lots of dancing and singing along as usual, and another fantastic night. Didnt the surprise guest go down well!! Thanks to all the helpers setting up, and on the night. Tickets on sale for: 23rd May Dance with the return of Alan Wallace, comedian and singer, from the Costa del Sol and also the lovely Lucinda. Just 9. 18th April Dance with CliffAsIf - a few tickets left. 13th June Ladies Day at just 12. 20th June Summer Ball at 29 to be held at Pinito De Oro, Aledo. 15th October Benidorm Trip a few tickets left at 130 for three nights half board, and also for Christmas, leaving on 23rd December, at 220 for four nights full board, including gala Christmas lunch. Both trips staying at Hotel Helios. These wont be available for long, so contact Rosemary now if you want to go. Book/Jigsaw Swap dates are April 3rd and 17th at the ICA Clinic on the main road leading to the rambla on Sector B. Further details from Jo on 669457985. Fun Petanca is held at Marianos, Camposol A on the last Wednesday of each month, starting at 1pm. For further details, call Les on 968131880. Welcome is open to everyone there is no membership just come along and meet friends old and new. Further details of all events, and for tickets, call Rosemary on 620105179, or email rosemarybeak@hotmail.com, or visit www.welcomegroupspain.com.
In March when another group were taken for their tests Welcome were pleased to present the AECC with a cheque for 1,000. Some of this money was raised in Monroes, Bolnuevo on their Pink Cava Day, another donation was raised by the FAT Club that meet on Thursday morning in memory of their friend Linette Sullivan who sadly passed away and the Welcome Group made up the donation to 1,000. Many thanks to Adena who travels with the ladies to translate for them, Steve and Dave the drivers and Joe for organsing it all for Welcome. WELCOME APRIL REPORT Hello from Bob with your April Welcome Report. Theres a lot to report this month, so Ill go straight in. First, we had our Trip to Benalmadena and the Races at Mijas at the end of February, staying at the Hotel Triton. Well done to the quiz and bingo winners on the coaches going down, and thanks to Steve in charge of coach number two. Saturday afternoon was free,
and on Sunday, off we went to the races. A beautiful day, bright sunshine, and lots of fun. We all had a utter some winners and some losers, and I think one of my horses is still running. Maybe if we go next year, it might just about have made it onto the home straight! On Sunday night, we went off to see Ricky Lavazza at a nearby hotel, and what a night that was! Haydn, Les and Frank got up on stage, and to much applause, joined in with Ricky to entertain us all. Rosemary has already booked the hotel for next year (dates to be conrmed later) so if you want to go, put your name down now as its sure to ll up fast. Ladies Evening on 7th March was, as usual, great fun and as successful as ever. Well done to the models, Jean Collins, Jean Brockman, Marge Drummond, Brenda Harvey, Sue Jones, and Fran Sears. Fran said when she got home that she enjoyed it so much, shes already
Easy Horse Care Get Valentines Surprise New foal Valentine was born at the Rescue Centre and, despite an icy and freezing cold entrance to the world, the Centre is pleased to announce that both mother and baby are keeping warm and well. Gin arrived at the Centre last summer along with Tonic and was already in foal. They were rescued after one of Easy Horse Cares volunteers, Cassandra, bought them from the gypsy owners for 400 guaranteeing their happy and healthy future. The two became parents and the foal was born in the early hours of Wednesday 15th February. Naturally, born just a day after Valentines Day he had to be named in honour of the most romantic day of the year. Valentine was found at around 6am by mother and son volunteer team Margit and Pierre during their morning routine of attending to the horses and donkeys. It was quite a surprise when we woke to nd we had another little donkey. said Sue Weeding. He was still wet and very cold so our main concern was getting him warm and to get him feeding from his mother.
Hopefully with this good weather, Valentine will grow steadily and will give much enjoyment to visitors of the Easy Horse Care Centre. Quizzers Raise Cash for EHC The welcome return of the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre raised 274 for the charity. Around 60 quizzers turned up to the event which has been re-launched at a new venue, the DAYA Centre in Daya Vieja, thanks to the continued support of the towns Mayor, Rafael Vives Pertusa.
for both adults and children, an Easter Egg Hunt, music from TAABS, a display from the pony club and the caf and tea room will be open throughout the afternoon where you can enjoy hearty meals and home-made cakes. If you would like more information on Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre call Sue on 652021980, email rescue@easyhorsecare.net or visit www.easyhorsecare.net If anyone is interested in having a stall at the forthcoming market proposed for Saturdays and Sundays, they should contact Mo, the charity shop co-ordinator, on 682288304. We are also currently looking for more items to be donated to the store in Quesada.
It was some weeks ago that we reported that the Mayor had offered a hand of friendship to the charity and was willing and able to do all he could to help and support Easy Horse Care and the work they do. That started with the offer of using the spectacular Villa Vera as emergency stabling and the opening of DAYA for their quiz nights. He turned up to greet the teams on Thursday evening and by the end of the night was even promising he may have a go at the quiz himself in a few months time. He also agreed that Easy Horse Care could set up a regular market in Daya Vieja. The DAYA Centre was inaugurated in May 2010; a purpose build community centre that is used by the whole population for watching football matches, movie nights, theatre shows and special events and is also the headquarters for two associations and the local agricultural society. For Mayor Rafa to see it being used to raise money for such a good cause is all he hoped for the centre. It was 8 years of hard work for me and this is what I envisaged. It is a gathering place with a mixture of entertainment and culture. It is all great news for us, said Sue Weeding, co-founder of Easy Horse Care, It has been a fantastic night and we would like to thank everyone that has come out and supported the quiz and to all the volunteers for their effort in making it happen. It came just a day after another fundraising event at the Cafe Vienna in Almoradi raised 190 for the charity which is going to need more donations than ever as it is believed 3 more horses that the Centre rescued last year are in foal, so there could soon be more mouths to feed! It has been a shock. says Sue, When you rescue mares it is very difcult to tell if they are pregnant as they dont show till very late on and for the last few weeks it has been so cold they have all been covered in blankets! Why not go along on Easter Sunday for the centres Easter Eggstravaganza from 1pm where there will be prizes for the best bonnet
The horses and donkeys are not used to the cold conditions. When their water is frozen the volunteers start the morning routine around an hour earlier and go round with kettles to defrost the water buckets. If the automatic drinkers are frozen they have to manually change the water throughout the day and giving the animals extra feeds. Horses drink around 25-40 litres of water a day so it is a long and arduous task to keep the water lled up, but it is necessary. If the water is too cold it can kill the friendly bacteria in the horses gut, potentially causing digestion problems and colitis and a severe type of colic that can lead to swelling of the intestines and cause kidney problems. Extra forage is also being provided as eating helps them to generate heat. Currently, with the severe drop in temperature, Easy Horse Care is getting through 16 bails a day at a cost of 5 each.
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Mass in English is celebrated every Saturday at the Catholic chapel at Pastrana, approximately 10km from Mazarrn Schedule of Masses: Saturday at 4:30pm Schedule of Confession: Saturday from 3:45-4:25pm also on request Bible Study: 1st and 3rd Sunday at 4:30pm Fr. Carlos Prats 628824555 Fr. Octavio Carpena 676219445 www.pastranaonline.com THE PASSION AND SUFFERING OF JESUS This is the time of the catholic calendar to recall the pain and suffering Jesus endured on the cross for us. It was the martyrdom of the God-man. Creation has known of no greater sacrice, no greater suffering, physical, emotional or spiritual, and no greater love. Indeed, the Crucixion and the death of Jesus
Christ was the greatest act of love in world history. It was all about love: God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, so that w h o e v e r believes in him may not die but have eternal life (John 3:16). If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me (Matthew 16:24)
Registered Charity N 8.714/1 JJs Puppy Rescue Association has been a Registered Charity since March 2007 with a Management Committee, Association Members, Volunteer Helpers and Foster Carers. We have become well known for rescuing abandoned puppies in the Mazarrn area. Without the help of JJs, over 300 puppies and dogs would have died from starvation or disease and their short lives would have ended in fear and distress due to human neglect.
Indeed, the Christian value of suffering is found in Jesus own words He who will not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me (Matthew 10:38), And he also added: If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it: and whoever loses his life for me for my sake and the Gospels will save it (Matthew (16:24- We now have over 40 rescued puppies and dogs in our care that are in need of a loving 25). While it is not something to be sought after, for even Christ in his humanity, while he bore extreme suffering in Gethsemane, he also prayed: Father, take this cup away from me, but not my will but what you will (Mark 14:36). In fact, it is this complete resignation and acceptance which makes suffering especially redemptive. As Pope John Paul II said: Christ has taught man to do good by his suffering and to do good to those who suffer In this double aspect he has completely revealed the meaning of suffering.
home. If you are interested in fostering or adopting a puppy or dog please call one of our Committee Members Tony 618034921 or John 617004959. They will provide more details and can arrange for you to see any of our rescued Puppies or dogs.
Prayer: Jesus I trust in you. Jesus I trust in you. Jesus I trust in your Mercy.
To raise the funds needed for the care and veterinary treatment of the abandoned puppies that are rescued we are dependant upon the public for help. We have a Charity Shop in Puerto de Mazarrn near the Arbol Supermarket. The Charity Shop is staffed entirely by Association Members who give their own time voluntarily, without payment or remuneration. Any unwanted furniture, household items, bric-a-brac, linen, clothes, shoes, books and DVDs or videos that can be sold in the Charity Shop to raise funds will be gratefully accepted. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR COLLECTION OF DONATED ITEMS GIVE ONE OF OUR COMMITTEE MEMBERS A CALL Tony 618034921 - John 617004959 Richard 699243370 WeDoItAll4ThePuppies
Please tell our customers where you saw their advertisement in the Costa Clida Chronicle Please tell our customers where you saw their advertisement in the Costa Clida Chronicle Page 38 Page 38
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We have great pleasure in announcing the launch of our rst Charity Shop in Aguilas The shop will be managed jointly by Pauline Richie & Anne, who we are proud to have on our team. Our Abba Night was a huge success, so a BIG THANKYOU to all who came along we hope you had a good time! A total of 900 was made from the event and was used as follows:a) Whilst not within our remit, we are unable to pass by an animal or human needing urgent help. A total of 9 puppies/young dogs were retrieved from the roads and temporarily housed here with our own 11 dogs. We do not have even one kennel, but are fortunate that our own dogs are very amiable. Each of the the rescues have received the necessary veterinary treatment, vaccinations and passports which allowed them to travel to new homes in Holland and Germany. Also homed was Jack, formerly owned by Clint & Simone but kindly fostered and sponsored by Pat & Pete Burt at Todosol. b) Another extremely sick dog, Shine, suffering from Leishmaniosis has received extensive treatment and is due to travel next month to Germany. c) A beautiful young Galgo we found locally was taken and cared for by Buddies, (Debs & Lee) to whom we are eternally grateful. d) Finally, a donation of 200 was made to San Animal Santuario, to assist them with their good work for the animals. This follows on from the funding of surgery at 457 on a San Animal puppy previously (Pedro).
Saturday 28th April at Hotel Puerto Juan Montiel Spa & Base Nutica, Aguilas have been ying out and we expect another superb show! Tickets 20 to include hot & cold buffet. Following on from Queen we have our Dedicated Dog Show which is being held right beside the beautiful marina at the Hotel Puerto Juan Montiel on Sunday 13th May - please come and bring all those beautiful dogs. Trade Stands and Charity Stalls will also be in attendance.
Spanish phrases provided by Antonio Hernandez LA PELUQUERIA Hairdresser Donde puedo encontrar una peluqueria? Where can I nd a hairdresser?
Que va a ser seor/seora? you like to have? Lavar y peinar por favor. please Le corto un poco? What would
Wash and style
Shall I cut it a bit?
Saturday June 16th sees the return of want it too short please. Showaddywaddy in response to great demand and especially to help us celebrate Como quiere que le peine? our rst anniversary. style would you like?
No quiero muy corto solo un poco. I dont
What kind of
September 16th is our End of Season Fies- Con raya en medio con raya/el lado. With ta to be held under the stars on the marina parting in the middle/on one side. with the fabulous BELLA LUNA, a hugely gifted and diverse Spanish group, along Todo hacia atras. All backwards. with other surprises for you.
Como me queda? How do I look?
And nally, Saturday December 1st, we Do I look good? have the absolutely amazing LIVERPOOL Me queda bien? BAND which we believe to be one of the Can you dye nest Beatles Tribute Bands and whom Podria teirme el pelo? have recently returned from The Cavern my hair? after celebrating Beatles Week. Should anyone have any particular requests for events they would like to experi- Un poco mas oscuro/claro. ence, please just ask one of our team. We lighter. will do all in our power to provide them for you. Mas castao/rubio/moreno
blonde/black. Desea el mismo color? same colour? Do you wish the
A bit darker/
More brown/
Forthcoming Events The tickets for Queen Tribute Band on
Helping Hands/Manos que Ayudan Charity Support Organisation Organizacion De Apoyo a Caridades Assoc.No: 10.913/1a CIF No: G73739989 Reg.Ofce. Ctra Aguilas 415, Buzon 33, Dip Purias, 30880 Lorca, Murcia.
El agua esta fria/caliente. cold/hot.
The water is
Podria ponerme extensiones? Can I have extensions please? Podria teirme mechas? streaks please? Can I have
Tiene alguna revista/periodico? you have any magazine or newspaper?
Do
PELUQUERIA DE CABALLEROS barber shop Que desea seor? to have? Un corte y un afeitado. please. No demasiado corto
Mens
What would you like
A cut and a shave
Not too short please. Cut a bit more on
Corte mas por los lados both sides please.
Donde quiere que le haga la raya? Where would you like the parting? A la izquierda/a la derecha/en medio. Left/right/middle. No me afeite a contrapelo por favor? Do not shave me against the grain please.
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Supertramp were a British rock band formed in 1969 under the name Daddy before renaming themselves in early 1970. Though their music was initially categorized as progressive rock, they incorporated a combination of traditional rock and art rock into their music. The bands work is marked by the inventive songwriting of Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson and the distinctive voice of Hodgson. Supertramp was also well known for their prominent use of the Wurlitzer electric piano and saxophone.
even less than their debut. In the aftermath, all members gradually quit except Hodgson and Davies, who began their search for new band members. A search for members brought aboard Dougie Thomson (bass), who had done standin gigs with the band for almost a year before auditions resumed. In 1973, auditions restarted and introduced Bob Siebenberg (drums & percussion) and John Helliwell (saxophone, other woodwinds, occasional keyboards, backing vocals), who completed the line-up. Hodgson would also begin playing keyboards (particularly the Wurlitzer electric piano) in addition to guitar. Finally rumour has it that due to constant friction, the Davies/Hodgson songwriting partnership was dissolved; though all of Supertramps songs would continue to be ofcially credited as written by Rick Davies and Rodger Hodgson, most of them were written by Davies or Hodgson individually. Supertramp needed a hit record to continue working, and nally got one with Crime of the Century. Released in September 1974, it began the groups run of critical and commercial successes, hitting number 4 in Britain, number 38 in the USA, and number 1 in Canada. The album underlined its ambitiousness, many of its songs were heavily orchestrated, and some even featured Davies and Hodgson singing in dialogue, such as the 1975 top 20 single Dreamer. Its B-side, Bloody Well Right, hit the US Top 40 in May 1975, peaking at no. 35, and would be their only hit in the country for more than two years. Most of the band has said they feel they hit their artistic peak on this album, though their greatest commercial success would come later. Supertramp continued with Crisis? What Crisis? released in November 1975, which broke both the UK Top Twenty and the USA Top Fifty without even one hit single behind it. The following album, Even in the Quietest Moments, released in April 1977, spawned a hit single with Give a Little Bit. During this period, the band eventually relocated to the United States. The bands switch to a more pop-oriented approach peaked with their most popular album, Breakfast in America, released in March 1979, which reached number 3 in the UK and number 1 in the United States and Canada and spawned four successful singles: The Logical Song, Take the Long Way Home , Breakfast in America, and Goodbye Stranger. The run of successes was capped with 1980s Paris, a 2-LP live album, in Supertramp which
stated their goal of improving on the studio versions of their songs. It included nearly every song from Crime of the Century. Initially, it was supposed to be a show recorded in Quebec City, Canada, but A&M vetoed the idea for a more mainstream city. The live version of Dreamer was released as a single in the U.S., where it reached no. 15, even though the studio version had failed to even chart there. In 1982, Supertramp released Famous Last Words which contained the hits Its Raining Again and My Kind of Lady. A worldwide tour followed in 1983. After the tour, Hodgson left the band. In an interview, he stated that the reason was to spend time with his two small children. Hodgson moved his family from the Los Angeles area to the mountains of northern California where he built a home and studio and focused on his family and spiritual life, but would occasionally produce solo albums. Hodgson has stated that there were never any real personal or professional problems between him and Davies, as some people thought. The Davies-led Supertramp soldiered on to continued success, releasing Brother Where You Bound in 1985. This included the Top 30 hit single Cannonball, along with the title track, a 16-minute exposition on Cold War themes highlighted by guitar solos from Pink Floyds David Gilmour. The album reached no. 20 in the UK charts and no. 21 in the US charts. 1987s Free as a Bird, the next album, experimented in heavily synthesized music, such as Im Beggin You, which reached number 1 on the US dance charts. The stylistic change was generally not well-received, however, and the album itself reached only no. 93 in the UK and 101 in the USA, breaking a streak of seven consecutive top 100 efforts on the American charts. After the 1988s tour, Dougie Thomson left the band over a disagreement with Davies about the use of Hodgson-penned songs during live performances and the group fragmented and eventually broke up altogether In 1996 Davies re-formed Supertramp with Helliwell, Siebenberg and Hart. The result was Some Things Never Change, an album that echoed the earlier Supertramp sound, released in March 1997. It reached no. 74 in the UK. In 1999 Supertramp released the live It Was the Best of Times, followed by Slow Motion in 2002 and a worldwide tour, after which the band went inactive once again. Another attempt to bring Hodgson back into the band for a reform failed in 2005 and that was that. I would like to thank Steve Ware for requesting this article, and hope that I have done his favourite band justice. You can listen to Mark Davies on Costa Clida International Radio on Mon, Wed and Fri evenings 7.00-9.00pm and Thursday afternoon 4.15-6.30pm. Mark Davies.
In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com n with Costa w t International Radio and www.angloINFO.com nternational Radio www.angloINFO.c o c
Supertramp were one of the rst groups to be signed to the UK branch of A&M Records and their rst album Supertramp was released on 14 July 1970 in the UK and Canada only (it would not be issued in the US until late 1977). Stylistically, the album was fairly typical of progressive rock of the era. Despite receiving a good deal of critical praise, the album did not attract a large audience. Dave Winthrop (ute and saxophone) joined the group after the release of the rst record and soon after Supertramp was able to earn a slot on the bill of the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival. The band membership changed as six months after the albums release guitarist Richard Palmer left the band due to personality conicts with Davies and Hodgson, followed shortly afterwards by drummer Robert Millar, who had suffered a nervous breakdown following a disastrous tour of Norway. For the next album, Indelibly Stamped, released in June 1971 (in both the UK and US), Frank Farrell (bass) and Kevin Currie (percussion) replaced Millar and Palmer, while Roger Hodgson switched to guitar. From this album forward, Hodgson and Davies were no longer able to use a lyricist, and Davies served as a second lead singer. Sales failed to improve, and the record sold
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Lloyds TSB Spain and Banco Halifax Hispania joined in 2010 to become Lloyds Bank International (LBI).
BENEFITS If you want a competitive and comprehensive current account then the Premier Account is the one for you. This is a relatively new product for the expat community and is similar to its namesake in the UK. One big advantage of this account is that you can benet from free transfers* from Lloyds Bank Group accounts in the UK to LBI accounts in Spain, and because LBI has its own treasury in Madrid, you will also get a very competitive rate of exchange when transferring Sterling to Euros. Furthermore, if you keep a minimum balance of 2500 in the account, you will benet from no account fees, which in todays economic climate is very important.
The Costa Clida Chronicle will be highlighting more of LBIs products over the coming months, but if in the meantime you would like some nancial advice, go to the experts - go to Lloyds Bank International.
Believe it or not, LBI have been in Spain for nearly a century and the bank works with the expat community providing support and nancial advice as well as full banking services. With 29 branches throughout Spain, seven of which are on the Costa Blanca and Costa Clida, LBI understands the expat community and the problems and issues that it faces and that is where LBI excels LBI prides itself on its excellent customer service and comprehensive personal banking services. SAVINGS - EURO, STERLING AND US DOLLAR ACCOUNTS LBI offer deposit accounts in Sterling and Euros as well as US Dollars, ranging from one month to one year. LBI also offer a sterling account especially for clients who want to hold funds in sterling in Spain in case they need to change them to Euros in a hurry. All monies can be transferred free of charge from Lloyds in the UK* - because you are transferring in Sterling there is no exchange rate loss and should you decide to transfer it back to the UK, you wont have lost anything. Now you cant argue with that!
For more information on products, services and branches call Shirley Adams on (0034) 620308804 or send an email to shirley. adams@lloydsbankinternational.es You can also visit LBIs excellent website www.lloydsbankinternational.es *This offer is only valid for individuals, and for transfers between accounts in the same name. Lloyds Bank International S.A.U. does not charge for these transfers. However, other parts of the Group may apply charges when issuing or receiving transfers. Lloyds Bank International S.A.U. reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. **Due to regulatory requirements, travel insurance is not available for US and Canadian residents.
Premier Account holders also receive a free translation service for documents up to 600 words, inclusive global travel insurance for you and your family**, a free debit card, free direct debits and access to more than 28,000 ServiRed ATMs to withdraw your cash from free of charge. OTHER SERVICES As well as current and xed deposit accounts, LBI also offer a wide range of advisory and portfolio management services, mortgages and a full range of insurance products, including home, car, life, health, boat and accident.
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Tess Gerritsen was brought up in San Diego, California, the child of a Chinese immigrant and a Chinese American seafood chef. She was christened Terry, but when she started writing, she c h a n g e d her name to Tess. She is married with two sons and lived in Camden, Maine. She en-
joys gardening and playing the ddle. As a youngster, she dreamed of becoming a famous writer, but her parents were worried that she would not be able to survive just by writing. Tess went to Stanford University and graduated with a BA in Anthropology before studying medicine at the University of California. She worked as a physician in Honolulu after gaining her medical degree in 1979. Tess wrote her rst story On Choosing the Right Crack Seed, whilst on maternity leave. The story focused on a young male reecting on a difcult relationship with his mother, which mirrored her own childhood turmoil when her mother repeatedly tried to commit suicide. Tess continued writing during her years as a doctor, writing mainly romantic thrillers. In 1996, Tess published her rst medical thriller novel, Harvest. This was her rst novel to be published in hardback and it gained her great credibility as an author by becoming number 13 on the New York Times bestsellers list. The Surgeon (2001) Here we nd the introduction of Jane Rizzoli, a homicide detective. A serial killer is stalking the streets of Boston, torturing his victims before killing them. The killer has obviously got vast medical knowledge. There are similarities between this killer and another killer from years ago when a doctor, Catherine Cordell, nearly died in similar circumstances. Body Double (2004) Returning to Boston from a business trip in Paris, Maura Isles encounters delays at Charles de Gaulle Airport, and nds upon landing in Boston that the airline has lost her luggage. When she nally makes it home, she nds her house taped off as a crime scene and is surprised to see Jane Rizzoli and Rizzolis partner Barry Frost there. Maura nds the body of a woman who looks identical to her and who also shares the same birthday. The woman is found to have been killed by a Black Talon bullet. Newton police detective Rick Ballard tells Maura that he believes that a CEO of a pharmaceutical company is the murderer, due to the latters obsessive lust over the deceased woman. Mauras curiosity is aroused further when Rizzoli hands her DNA results showing that the deceased is her identical-twin sister. Tess Gerritsen wrote the story and screenplay, Adrift, which in 1993 starred Kate Jackson and Bruce Greenwood. She has also written essays which have been published by Mystery Writers of America and International Thriller Writers. She also blogs regularly about the writing business, both on her own website and on a mystery writers site, Murderati.com. She has received various awards including a RITA award Romance Writers of America in 2002 for Best Romantic Suspense Novel for The Surgeon. Her latest novel (2011) was The Silent Girl.
The Los Cnovas Players present Six Aside Once again my wife and I had the great privilege of being invited to the latest production by Los Cnovas Players and what a production it was; six short plays/sketches, three in the rst half and three in the second and every one different from the rest. The theatre in Los Cnovas village is a great venue to put on these productions as it has been transformed by the theatre group and members of the village, producing a theatre to rival many professional theatres, having a great sound & light system and stage with all the trimmings plus plenty of seats for the audience. Firstly was The Mixer by Glyn Blakeborough, starring husband & wife duo Angela and Roger Joy. Directed by Denise Saunders, it conveys a short story about one mans constant battle against the local council, more importantly the refuse department. His meddling with his neighbours rubbish and recycling bins was very entertaining and well portrayed. Next we had You Will Go No More AHaunting by Ray Lawrence, starring Betty and Stuart Hill, also directed by Denise Saunders. This short tale is based in a heavenly ofce, and involves the ghost of Sir Thomas and his superior Saint Gladys who is trying to bring Sir Thomas up to the modern day with his haunting techniques and ways. Another well-acted and presented tale. The third production was CSI-Nursery by Damian Trasler, also directed by Denise Saunders. The actors do a very good job in this tale where Ken Saunders, Roger Joy,
Beryl Snowden and Marion Ward act out a story about Solomon Grundy who lived a brief life that was cut short. Nursery Land CSI Tommy has to nd the evidence and unmask Grundys killer; a very clever way of bringing the past in an old Nursery rhyme up to present times with CSI (Crime Scene Investigators). The interval gave us a chance to get some refreshments and an opportunity to chat to some of the cast members. The curtain went up for the second half and we were treated to my favourite of the six sketches, Medieval Help Desk by Damian Trasler, David Lovesy and Steve Clark (TLC Creative), directed by Ken Saunders and staring Angela Joy, Beryl Snowden & Denise Saunders. The tale is based around an ofce in a castle in medieval times. This was a very cleaver sketch using computer and technical jargon, but with a medieval twist. Very amusing and well-acted. The fth production was In the Human Resources Ofce by Damian Trasler and directed by Denise Saunders, starring Betty Hill and Roger Joy. The story is about Tony who has just been made redundant and goes to the Human Resources department to be processed, but Tricia the secretary is just covering.. Very well acted and highly amusing. The nal sketch Mr Willoughby by Peter Lancaster Walker, directed by Ian Askew and staring Denise Saunders & Ken Saunders, was based
in a living room where an Alien Abductee is interviewed by a sceptical journalist, providing some surprising answers. Very amusing and well-acted (I really liked Kens portrayal of the abductee). It was a great nights entertainment that we thoroughly enjoyed and recommend to everyone. So refreshing to see such professionalism put to great use. The Los Cnovas Players hard working company was: Stage management: Roger Joy, Denise Saunders, Ken Saunders Assisted by Betty Hill, Angela Joy, Beryl Snowden & Marion Ward. Lighting: Tony Ward and Sound by Dan Wheatlet. Their next production will be in late May, or early June, and after that, during the summer, they will be preparing for their annual participation in the Los Cnovas Fiesta, which takes place at the end of September. The Los Cnovas Players are constantly looking for fresh and younger blood to join their cast of players and help is also needed behind the scenes, so if you would like more information about joining the group or about any up and coming events or productions Telephone 968151149, 968151234 or 628580367 Email: loscanovasplayers@gmail.com Steve the Snip
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Ibex Insurance staff and Akin Charity join forces to raise funds for the street children of Sierra Leone Staff from Ibex Insurance and supporters of the Gibraltar charity AKIN (Association for Kids In Need) have joined forces in an ambitious and adventurous project to raise money for the UK registered charity Street Child of Sierra Leone. Marathon running has become a very popular challenge for charity fundraisers over the years and the Ibex/Akin team are busy training for their rst ever marathon, but not in Lisbon or Madrid, nor in London or New York. No, this group is heading for the small town of Makeni in northern Sierra Leone. There has never been an organised open
marathon in Sierra Leone, which has a tropical climate and high humidity. 70% of the marathon course is on packed mud roads and the race is during the start of the rainy season when temperatures will reach
the mid twenties. Has the question Why? crossed your mind yet? In 2008 the UN Human Development Index again ranked Sierra Leone last (out of 179 countries) making it ofcially the poorest country in the world. One in four children do not live to see their fth birthday. The 11 year civil war between 1991 and 2002 displaced half the population and the memory of atrocities carried out by child soldiers lives on and has left a legacy of orphans and broken communal and social bonds. The grinding poverty still results in children leaving or being driven from their homes and the lack of childrens rights has led to a culture of the internal trafcking of children to wealthier families where they are often abused. All in all a perfect storm forcing children onto the streets. The goal of Street Child of Sierra Leone, (SCoSL) is to reduce the number of children living on the streets, to show them love and care by tending to their nutritional, health, recreational, educational and psycho-social needs, re-building trust in adults, reconciling the children with their families and communities or settling them in alternative loving environments. SCoSL is a volunteerled UK-registered charity committed to spending 90% of all donations on highimpact projects. During a trip to Sierra Leone in 2006 Jimmy Bruzon became involved in the Regent School Refurbishment Project in Freetown. This project was later adopted by AKIN and Jimmy continues to lead the AKIN Sierra Leone Team. Participating in the marathon will be Jimmys rst return to Sierra Leone since 2006. The Ibex team at the Kiln Sierra Leone Marathon on 9 June is made up of Lianne Gilbert, Richard Hill, Phil Langley, Eva Massetti, Elainne Perez, Alicia Torrecilla Cortes and David Whitmore. The headline sponsors Kiln, who hold a minority stake in Ibex, is marking its 50th anniversary by supporting this event in the 50th year since Sierra Leone gained independence. This is an exciting adventure with each member meeting their own travel and accommodation costs in full, in order that every penny raised goes towards the ambitious target of 15,000 helping Street Child with their important work. Donations can be made via your local Ibex Insurance Ofce or via the web at www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/ IbexAkinKilnSLMarathon and follow our progress on Facebook at www.facebook. com/IbexAkinKilnSLMarathon
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Mountain Bike Run IV Costas de Mazarrn More than 2000 people gathered in Mazarrn during the weekend of 3rd and 4th March to enjoy this weekend on two wheels! The Mountain Bike Run IV Costas de Mazarron was a great success with many participants, including cyclists and their families. They gathered in the morning of 3rd March at the fairground area of Mazarrn where they started the challenge of 55 miles, travelling throughout much of the municipality, passing the coves of Bolnuevo, the Sierra de las Herreras and Alto de Los Cartuchos.
across the line were Salvador Ayala Lpez, Jos Luis Prraga Carrasco y Pedro Francisco Antolino Garns. In the Over 40s, Jeronimo Baraza Rubio remained in rst place followed by Francisco Jos Garca Salazar and Manuel Lopez Oliva.
Participants were delighted with the day and hopefully many of them will repeat their visit to Mazarrn in the coming weeks. The route started at 8am at the Town Hall where participants were received by the Mayor of Mazarrn, Gins Campillo. The walkers then visited the Castle of Vlez and Torre del Molinete in Mazarrn, and headed to the Sierra de Las Moreras where they discovered the late Neolithic settlement of Cabezo del Plomo, one of the main settlements of the Neolithic era, dating from the fourth end and mid third millennium BC. The path continued towards Bolnuevo. Here participants visited the Torre de los Caballos and popular erosions which, besides taking a multitude of photos, enjoyed a tasty lunch prepared by the Consistory for the occasion. Once replenished, hikers visited the Phoenician Ship Interpretation Centre. The Museum of the Roman Factory Salt was the next stop on the route near the Torre de Santa Isabel.
The Overall Champion Fabian Molina Delgado was followed by Salvador Ayala Lpez and Jos Luis Parra Carrasco. The three were awarded a ham as a special prize from the Mayor of Mazarron, Gins Campillo. Junior Winner was Christopher Martin Caparros, who shared the podium with Joseph Pernas Andreo Navarro and Jose Luis Gallego. The Senior Category winner was Fabian Molina Delgado, while second and third places went to Jesus Lopez Navarro and Diego Garcia de Gea. The Womens Winner was Cecilia Sopena Espin, Maria Jose Haro Maturana was second, while Isabel Navarro Jimenez took third place. In the Over 30s Category, the rst three
The Veterans Category Winner was Jeronimo Cayuela Garcia, with Salvador Martinez Sanchez and Juan Sanchez Cuenca in 2nd and 3rd place. The top 3 nishers in each category received, in addition to a trophy, a commemorative jersey celebrating the 440th anniversary of independence of the municipality. There was special recognition for the oldest rider, Juan Hernandez Legaz of Fuente Alamo and the rider who came furthest, Isidro Siles from Catalan. On 4th March the rst time trial was held in this event. The top three were Ramon Martinez Martinez, Jesus Lopez Navarro and Sergio Gonzalez Porlan. Friends of Nature Walk On 4 March, 170 walkers came from all corners of the Region of Murcia, and from the neighbouring province of Almeria, to participate in the walking route Torres y Castillos de Mazarrn (Towers and Castles of Mazarrn) organized by the walkers club Friends of Nature, with the cooperation of the City of Mazarrn. This event was held to commemorate the 440 year history of being granted the privilege of Villa Township.
The activity has been, without doubt, a new success in their organization and participation in the celebration of 440th anniversary of independence of the municipality. The number of participants far exceeded the maximum number expected by the organising club and therefore Friends of Nature and the City of Mazarrn are studying possible dates for a further event in October.
LA VIRGEN DE LAS PENAS PROTAGONISTA DEL CARTEL DE SEMANA SANTA DE PUERTO DE MAZARRN On 22 February, the poster presentation for Easter was held in the Church of San Jos in Puerto de Mazarrn, which this year shows an image of Virgin de las Penas. The poster was produced by Teresa Maria Lopez, of Tere Photos. She said she was Tremendously proud, for it has been an honour for me to do this work to which I devoted many hours of work and love.
to participate actively in the events and processions of Mazarrn. OVER 150 NATIVE SPECIES PLANTED IN THE CABEZO DEL SANTO AND EL MOLINETE During the weekend of 18th and 19th February, about 40 people participated in the Reforestation Day organized by the hiking club Amigos de la Naturaleza of Mazarrn. This initiative, which included the assistance of Department of Environment, developed the area Cabezo del Santo and El Molinete. Participants planted over 150 plants donated by the garden centres, Maestra, La Fuencisla and La Gardenia. These included a large number of native plants such as thyme, rosemary and pines. During the following week, participants visited these two areas to irrigate and look after the plants during the rst days of their life. The organizers said, We want to ensure that reforestation does not remain merely an isolated action, so with the help of volunteers, we will carry out the necessary care for the plants to see them continue to develop and grow in our green spaces. He also thanked the support of the Town Hall Who gave us the means to carry out this activity.
YOUNG GEOGRAPHERS HAVE A STUDY DAY IN MAZARRN Participants at the XXXV National Meeting of Young Geographers enjoyed a pleasant day on 22 February, working in Mazarrn where they studied La Rambla de Las Moreras and Los Erosions de Bolnuevo. The young geographers were welcomed by the Councillor for Education, Tourism and Culture, Maria Celeste Soria, and the Councillor for Environment and Citizenship, David Fernandez, who thanked the meeting organisers for choosing Mazarrn as a place to carry out the eld day. David Fernandez also revealed that Mazarrn is in talks with the Association of Young Geographers of the Region of Murcia (GEOMUR) to carry out some specic days like this Mazarrn meeting.
The presentation ceremony was chaired by the Mayor of Mazarrn, Gins Campillo, who was accompanied by the President of the Chapter of Holy Week Brotherhoods of Puerto de Mazarrn, Francisco Munoz, President of the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Sorrows, Eusebio Sanchez, and Justo Pastor Jose Sanchez. Also present were Vice Mayor, Francisco Garcia, Councillor for Culture, Tourism and Education, Maria Celeste Soria, and the Council of Celebration, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Isidro Coy. The president of Cabildo, Francisco Munoz, opened the ceremony dedicating a few words to those present and revealing that the preacher of the Holy Week of Puerto de Mazarrn this year will be the school principal Bahia, Salvador Moreno Ardil. The president of the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Sorrows, Eusebio Sanchez, was excited because his head was the image chosen this year to promote Easter in Puerto de Mazarrn. Mayor Gins Campillo said Easter is a special day for both the municipality and for me personally, Recalling his years as president of the Cabildo de Mazarrn, and asked people
Councilllor Maria Celeste Soria said In addition to La Rambla de las Moreras and Los Erosions de Bolnuevo, the town has many attractions for geographical study, and we hope that in the future you will return to visit us to discover and study more aspects of our municipality. After the reception, young people went to Las Moreras where they studied the risks of oods and the measures to be taken to prevent accidents of natural phenomena. This year the meeting was about Natural Hazards in the Southeast Peninsular, studying phenomena such as earthquakes, oods, erosion and drought. What most fascinated everyone were the Erosions of Bolnuevo, A true feast for the senses of a geographer, as explained by the organizer of this activity, Daniel Moreno of Mazarrn. They had a short rest before heading to the city of Lorca where they continued with the eld day.
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The day was attended by the Mayor of Mazarrn, Gins Campillo, and the Mayor of the Environment, David Fernandez, who participated in some of the planting, as did a large group from The Association ASPADEM who actively participated with their President Juan Zamora. Amigos de la Naturaleza and AMPA Gines Garcia are looking into the opportunity to repeat this activity.
Chocolate This month begins with Easter and what better excuse to do lots of chocolate recipes? If you have given up chocolate for Lent, then I bet Easter Sunday cant come soon enough. One tradition in our house is a chocolate pudding after our roast dinner on Easter Sunday. A few years ago (actually shortly after the rst grandchild was old enough to eat chocolate) we purchased a chocolate fountain. I buy lots of fresh fruit like bananas, pineapple and strawberries and prepare these into bowls on the table. The fountain has pride of place in the middle and everyone is allocated a long skewer; then the fun begins. If you havnt got a fountain, then bowls of melted chocolate will do just as well and its a very easy pudding to do and also healthy! Well chocolates are made of beans so count as one of your 5 a day! Happy Easter. Buen Appetito Churros with Hot Chocolate 250ml water 50ml sunower oil tsp salt 200g our 115g dark chocolate 1 litre milk 1 tbsp cornour 4 tbsp sugar Oil for frying Put the water, oil and salt into a heavy pan and boil. Turn the heat down and add the our and beat together until the mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat. In the meantime heat the oil for frying until very hot. Using an icing syringe, pipe thick strips into the oil and fry until golden brown. Place on a plate and sprinkle with sugar. Place the chocolate and half the milk in a pan and heat. Dissolve the cornour in the rest of the milk and mix with the chocolate together with the sugar. Continue heating the mixture on a low heat, stirring
constantly. Remove from heat and whisk until smooth and serve with donuts. Chocolate Coconut Slices 6oz chocolate 4oz sugar 4 oz coconut 2oz chopped cherries 1 large egg Melt chocolate in glass bowl over gentle heat. Pour into cake tin and spread over bottom. Allow to cool. Beat egg and castor sugar lightly and add coconut and cherries. Mix well. Spread over chocolate base. Bake till golden brown in moderate oven for about an hour. When cool cut into ngers. Ma Millbanks Chocolate Cake 200g butter 200g caster sugar 4 eggs 150g self raising our 50g cocoa 1 heaped teaspoon of baking powder Oven 190 Beat the butter until creamy, add the sugar and again beat until creamy. Sieve out our, baking powder and cocoa powder and set aside. Add eggs to butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, together with a tablespoon of our/cocoa mixture - this will stop curdling. When all eggs mixed in, add the remaining our but mix only until a smooth mixture. Too much mixing will lose all the air in the mixture. Pour into two cake tins and when oven is at temperate, cook for 20 minutes or when a sharp knife comes out clean. Do not open the oven door before at least 15 minutes or cake will drop the air. Butter Cream for Middle of Sponge 100g butter 50g of icing sugar 50g cocoa powder
Cream butter and add sieved icing sugar and cocoa until smooth. If too runny, add more icing sugar. If too stiff, add a few drops of cold water. Wait until cake sponge is cold before applying the butter cream Melt chocolate in glass bowl above some hot water and pour over the top of the cake and decorate or double the butter cream quantities and spread the top with butter cream and decorate. Chocolate Crisps lb broken biscuits 4oz butter 2 tbsp cocoa 1 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp golden syrup 2 oz plain chocolate Crumble the biscuits. Cream the butter, sugar and cocoa all together. Add the syrup. Work until rm. Press this into a well-greased tin. Melt the chocolate in a glass bowl over hot water. Remember to heat the chocolate slowly and do not stir until almost melted. Pour over cake mix and leave in fridge over night. Chocolate Fruit Fresh fruit like bananas, oranges, grapes, strawberries etc. 150g Chocolate A packet of cocktail sticks Melt the chocolate in a glass bowl over a saucepan of boiling water, stirring. When the chocolate is runny without lumps, take a piece of fruit and put a cocktail stick into the top. Dip it into the chocolate and coat all over. Place on a kitchen towel and allow to set. Decorating with hundreds and thousands can be done when the chocolate is still wet. Any fruit can work, so why not try some more unusual ones?
Friday 27th April - Snow Houses - Meet El Berro car park 10.30am An easy, social, non-sporty short walk, like all NEST walks, to see the Snow Houses in the heights of Sierra Espua! Then an optional meal at an authentic, gem of a Spanish mountain restaurant where, if lucky, we see wild boar. Bring binoculars and cameras for stunning views and wildlife with possibilities of seeing eagles, Arrui, squirrels, foxes, lizards etc. NEST is about meeting people and making new friends in beautiful surroundings, so come and have fun! Please book, as places are limited, by phone/ text to 679002147 or email natureespunatrails@gmail.com Supply full names of each person coming with Spanish contact phone numbers in case of changes. Wait for conrmation that youre booked in. Unfortunately people cant just turn up as theres
a limit and restaurants need booking in advance. The walk is 5 and the (optional) 4 course meal of salad, starter, main course, dessert, including one drink and *in addition, coffee * is 9. Most people love the meal
which is a very sociable happy occasion! There are driving directions and a lot more information including videos and photos on the website www.nestwalks.info Its essential to join the mailing list on the website to keep up to date with new walks, full details, and any changes. Also on Facebook at Natureespunatrails Nest with the web address www.facebook.com/natureespunatrails for a stream of interesting and entertaining photos, news and snippets on many topics including wildlife, ecology, Spain, expat life, rescue dogs and occasional topical Amazon book freebies. Looking forward to seeing you all online and in person! Bring water, sensible footwear, cameras, binoculars and a smile!
Are you thinking of celebrating British Food Fortnight 25th July 12th August, or the Queens Jubilee 2nd 5th June? If you cant be there during these celebrations, you can celebrate here in Spain at your favourite bar or restaurant, or you may be organising a street party in your neighbourhood. WHAT IS LOVE BRITISH FOOD 2012? This year, British Food Fortnight, which traditionally takes place during the autumn, runs at the same time as the Olympics under the title Love British Food 2012 (27th July to 12th August 2012). Promotions are planned in thousands of shops, pubs and restaurants and Family Feasts are being organised in all areas, bringing the Olympic spirit to Spain. With an exciting new logo and patriotic promotional material bearing
the slogans Be Patriotic! and Support the UK Teams! LOVE BRITISH FOOD 2012 PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL AVAILABLE TO HELP P E O P L E TAKE PART. Love British Food 2012 promotional packs will be available from May 2012. Packs include a range of promotional and point-of-sale material to help peo-
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ple take part in the patriotic celebrations: red, white and blue balloons with Love British Food 2012!; 3 x A3 Love British Food 2012 posters; DIY cut out and create-your-own bunting (enough to make 12 feet of bunting with 1 ag per foot) featuring the following messages: Love British Food 2012 - Be Patriotic! and Love British Food - Support the Home Team!; and patriotic shelf barkers. All enclosed in an A4 folder with details about Love British Food 2012 and ideas and hot tips for taking part. Demand is high so people are asked to make sure they reserve their packs early on www.lovebritishfood.co.uk. Packs cost 17 including post and packing to Spain and orders must be placed by 11th May so that they can be sent out in time for the Diamond Jubilee Weekend.
Have you been to the upstairs area of the Centro Comercial La Pirmide Centre lately?
Furniture Plus Moves to Mazarrn
After 8 years of being an established company, Furniture Plus has now arrived at Puerto de Mazarron above Mercadona.
as it is so bright and airy and they are now in the location they have wanted to be for the last six years. They have enjoyed seeing so many old customers. In fact Chris said if all the good wishes they have had from their old and new customers translated into Euros they would be miwyionaires. Honest, would I lie to you Rodders? Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6pm and Sat 10-2pm See our advert on the back page
4 the Artist between Furniture Plus and Sylvia George the hairdressers on the rst oor of the Piramide Centre where Mercadona is situated. You are welcome to come and browse and you will nd good quality artist materials. 4 the Artist has a wide selection of paper for all kinds of art work, a good range of oil, watercolour and acrylic paints, pastels soft, hard and oil, acrylic inks, Dalar boards for oil painting and boards for watercolour painting.
On 1st March Furniture Plus moved into the old Don Bricolage building located in the upper area of the La Pirmide Centre in Puerto de Mazarrn. The stairs and lift next to Vodaphone will bring you straight into the Furniture Plus showroom or you can enter the other doors via the top car park of Mercadona.
Chris and Roy love their new showroom
Everything for the Artist 4 the Artist is a unique, friendly, helpful art shop which has been in Puerto de Mazarrn for a year, but have moved recently to new premises. You can now nd
There is a superb range of paint brushes and much more. Whether you have painted for a long time or just started we hope to see you soon. 4 the Artist is the shop to awaken and nurture artistic your
creativity. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm and Saturday 10.00am to 2pm. See our advert on page 7 Legs & Co - the Costas Largest Supplier of Lingerie
Legs & Co stock many well-known brands from most high street stores as well as Ballet, Naturana and Valbonne. They have a wide range of sizes and styles to suit everyone.
lar shops in the area during the seven years it has been in business. Yorkshire Linen is open Monday Friday 10am-6pm & Saturday 10am2pm. Parking is easy above Mercadona at the Piramide Centre, Puerto de Mazarrn. There is always a free bra t service available, said Peter. In addition to lingerie, Legs & Co also offer basic high street clothing and beach wear for the current season at excellent prices. The swim wear comes in cup and dress sizes in a wide range of colours and styles. They also stock Sarongs and Kaftans and are the major stockists of the Saress in the area, again, in a multitude of styles and colours. See our advert on 32 Youll nd Everything You Need at The Yorkshire Linen Co
Legs & Co was established nearly 10 years ago in Fuente Alamo, but they soon outgrew their rst shop and have now become well established in three provinces; Puerto de Mazarrn, Los Alcazares and Roquetas de Mar. Their shops are well laid out showing their extensive range of ladies fashion and lingerie.
For more information call 968595946 or 650857619. See the latest collections at www.yorkshirelinen.com See our advert on 9 Spring into 2012 with Tornado Tornado are specialists in dry cleaning and general laundry for both domestic and commercial alike and have a wealth of experience in dealing with precious and delicate items such as wedding dresses and dinner suits.
We are the longest established English lingerie, swimwear and clothing shop in the Costas and we carry more Here in Mazarrn, Yorkshire Linen brings you a huge range of everyday essentials such as pillows, duvets, sheets and towels. You will also nd beautiful bedding, an amazing choice of curtains and voiles and all those nishing touches to complete your decor.
stock than any other company, with more than 1,000 bras in each shop and around 10,000 in stock at the warehouse, said owner Peter Clarke.
The constantly changing product range offers you exceptional choice, quality and value for money. This, alongside the excellent level of service and advice from Peter and Karen and their staff, has seen Yorkshire Linen, Mazarrn grow into one of the most popu-
You will nd Tornado upstairs at the Piramide Centre in Puerto de Mazarrn, next to Furniture Plus and opposite Legs & Co and Yorkshire Linen. See our advert on 10
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Tornado offer a wide range of upholstery services including carpets, blankets, curtains and sofa cushions and offer a same-day washing and ironing service.
Mar Menor Human-trafcking Gang Forced 24 Women into Prostitution Nine members of a Cartagena family have been arrested after a prostitution and human-trafcking racket was uncovered. They reportedly bought 24 women from another criminal gang - which had lured them over from Paraguay on false pretences - in what was described as a remortgage arrangement, where the victims worked in two brothels in the Mar Menor (Murcia) area to pay off their debts to their original trafckers. The girls were expected to pay back the costs of their journey to Spain and their accommodation in Cartagena by handing over all their earnings from providing sexual services. Investigating ofcers heard that they were forced at gunpoint to take cocaine and other drugs to enable them to perform better, and were ned for offences such as arriving late, arguing, refusing to work or dressing in a manner inappropriate for exercising prostitution. Top-level organised crime police raided four houses and two brothels, which led to nine arrests. A total of 27 bank accounts were frozen during the inquiry, seven properties embargoed, and 89 grams of cocaine, 54,000 in cash, rearms, luxury vehicles and forged identity documents were conscated. Spain one of the Countries with the most Holidays 66.5% of Swiss voters opted not to increase their annual holidays from four to six weeks. Like Italians, Germans, Belgians, Cypriots, Irish and Dutch, the Swiss are entitled, by law, to 20 days paid holiday per year. In Spain, workers enjoy a minimum of 22 days paid holiday, plus 14 public holidays, bringing the total to 36 days off per year, making it one of the countries with the most days off in the world. Animals Ill-treated on a Pig Farm near Fuente Alamo Four workers on a farm in Murcia were arrested for ill-treatment of the pigs. The offences included the men using iron bars and knives on pregnant sows, leaving them and their young to die a slow and painful death. The Civil Guard arrested the manager and three other workers at the Fuente lamo farm after the Igualdad Animal organisation denounced them for continued crime of ill-treatment to the animals. A video was
shown of the offences. It had been recorded by one of the workers at the farm who, after three years, decided to take action. He said the killing of pigs with a knife was common and ill-treatment was constant and routine The four men, two aged 40, one 32 and one 22, are now before the Instruction Court in Cartagena. Banks could be forced to offer more Flexible Mortgage Terms to owners in danger of Repossession Repossession laws on mortgaged homes are to get a complete overhaul forcing banks to take a more exible stance in order to prevent owners from being left out on the street. Households where all adult members are unemployed, with no income, will be able to request a payment holiday of up to four years, during which they only pay interest on the loan; an extension of the mortgage term to 40 years, and the reduction of interest rates to the current Euribor plus 0.25 per cent. If the owners are still unable to pay the mortgage because this amount exceeds 60 per cent of their monthly income, they can request a discharge of the loan and, if even this means paying beyond their means, they can hand back the keys to the bank and wipe out the debt. If the family opts for the latter, they can remain in the property as tenants for up to two years with an annual rent of 3% of the outstanding debt meaning that if the mortgage currently stands at 100,000, their rent will be 250 a month. All this is possible, even when the bank has started repossession proceedings, unless the auction date of the property has already been formally announced. The provisions will only apply where the property is worth less than 200,000 if it is based in a city of more than one million inhabitants; 180,000 when there are 500,000 people in the city and 150,000 in towns of 100,000 or more people. For all other, smaller towns or villages, the property value must not exceed 120,000. The mortgage must exceed 60% of the household income for banks to be obliged to allow these concessions. Vice-president of the government, Soraya Senz de Santamara, explained that the idea is to put the brakes on the ever-increasing number of people left homeless due to being unable to pay their mortgages following redundancy. Around 300,000 repossession orders have been led since the recession started in 2008. Spain one of Countries with Highest Cocaine Use Spain remains one of Europes highest consumers of cocaine, although the amount seized is declining and the level of misuse of the drug has stabilised. Currently, Europe is the second largest cocaine market, accounting for almost one third of global consumption
of this drug. Spain, together with Italy and the United Kingdom, are the countries with the highest cocaine consumption, and together with the Netherlands, among the nations with the largest seizures of the drug. The report highlights the efforts of the Spanish authorities in the ght against drug abuse. In January 2011, a large cocaine processing laboratory was located in Spain and the authorities seized 300 kilograms of the drug and 33 tons of chemical precursors. A shing boat, intercepted in the mid-Atlantic with more than three tonnes of cocaine on board, was escorted into the port of Vigo by customs ofcials. The Ratonero was found to be carrying 90 bales of cocaine, weighing over 3,000 kilos in total, believed to have been loaded onto the vessel somewhere along the coast of Venezuela. Three men from the Galician town of O Grove, the boats owner and two crew members, along with a Uruguayan and a Colombian, were brought into port in the brig of the customs ofcial boat. Two thirds of Spaniards have Neighbourhood Disputes The most common neighbourhood disputes relate to noise and non-payment of community charges. Two thirds of Spanish people have had a dispute with their neighbours for reasons such as noise, non-payment of community charges, or pets, among other issues. Cleanliness, watering systems and bad smells are some of the other causes of neighbourhood disputes, but for the Spanish in particular, noise is by far and away the most common cause of conicts between neighbours. Many of the disputes between neighbours remain unresolved and more than half of respondents said that they have occurred over the past year. Legal costs are, together with damages, the biggest sources of economic loss when solving a neighbourhood dispute in Spain. Only one in ten people are likely to take legal action. The study shows that the consequences of these conicts include having to deal with unexpected expenses and lost time, having to take legal action, having to cope with stressful arguments, and even health problems, especially in those over 65. Another consequence of neighbourhood conicts, which generates substantial costs, is having to move house, which 8% of people surveyed claim to have done or are thinking of doing, with young people between 26 and 35 the most willing to do so. Many highlighted the psychological rather than economic cost of the disputes with their neighbours, which two out of ten respondents reported having suffered. 10% of respondents said the dispute had resulted in the total breakdown of relations with their neighbour. Region by region, Murcia had the highest number of neighbourhood disputes, with 77% of people surveyed saying they had at some time been, or were currently involved in one, followed by Madrid (72%) and Valencia (70%); whereas Navarre (40%), Galicia (51%) and Asturias (52%) were all below average.
Dear Editor, I would like to say what a wonderful stall Noahs ARC has on Fridays on Camposol B Sector. There is a great selection of books, brica-brac and clothes at very reasonable prices. Ive met some lovely people running the stall including Chris and Linda who are doing a sterling job and start very early to set everything up. I love browsing and chatting to everyone. Well done to all concerned and long may it last. Yours faithfully From a very satised customer Sue Furness Dear Editor On reading the Nature Espua Trails (NEST) article in the February Costa Clida Chronicle magazine, it gave me the enthusiasm to nd my walking boots and book a space on the
Almond Blossom Trail walk. On the day of the walk we travelled to El Berro Village, which is on the edge of Sierra Espua National Park. On arrival at the village car park early to ensure a car space, it was discovered the plan was too successful, as we were the rst to arrive and had to make an executive decision to decide which car parking space to use! After such an ordeal, a coffee at the cafe opposite the car park was in order. The coffee, with an orange that had fallen off the tree and the spring sunshine on your face, is a perfect way to start a walk. Shortly another couple arrived who were convinced the walk commenced at 10am. I concluded that they were experience walkers and were using the earlier start time to disguise their enthusiasm. At 10.15 many walkers arrived including the NEST organiser Louisa. The start of the walk was delayed as the nal couple was late; I assumed that their clock was on Spanish time. The walk was a circular route commencing at the lower end of the village, then on to the top end of the well known camping resort and onwards to the open mountain areas, returning via the village church. The slow pace of the walk gave a perfect opportunity to take photographs in this beatiuful, relaxing region, with blossom trees in all directions. A section of photographs can be accessed via the web link: picasaweb.google. com/111820891338292498821/ MurciaBlossomRoute
On completion of the walk, all available walkers travelled by car to the prearranged restaurant located near Mula for a late lunch. The drive was through many blossom tree plantations, which was beautiful with pink and white colours in abundance. On arrival at the restaurant the omen was not good, as there was an ambulance parked outside the restaurant front door. Fortunately on entering the restaurant the ambulance service personnel were observed enjoying a menu del dia. The restaurant was excellent with a good selection of dishes available. I enjoyed sh as the main course that was very good, with sh paella as a starter and cream catalana as the dessert. Both these courses were excellent. The meal concluded a most enjoyable and relaxing day. Stephen Cockeram
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More Home Insurance Covers From Liberty Seguros Assembling furniture, hanging picture frames or curtains and plumbing work are some of the innovative covers on offer with the addition of DIY to Liberty Seguros home insurance LibertyHogar allows customers to choose the level of protection they need for their home, based on their needs Liberty Seguros has launched its new and updated home policy. It comprises several new covers, including one for customers in need of a little help with DIY around the home. The DIY service allows customers to enjoy their free time and forget about those small household tasks. Once a year, during week-
days, customers can request for a professional to handle jobs such as plumbing, installing bath accessories, curtains, sealing of joints in tubs or sinks, assembling furniture, replacing power outlets and hanging artwork on walls among other issues. Additionally, LibertyHogar offers its customers computer and technology support in person or over the phone, for queries related to home electronic equipment such as computers, GPS and digital cameras. It also includes legal advice on any matter relating to internet use or e-commerce. Optional covers are also available, such as legal defence for landlords in dispute with tenants over default rental payments or damage caused to the property. Choose the level of protection you need Liberty Seguros allows customers to choose from three levels of protection for their home: ProteccinBasic, ProteccinPlus and ProteccinPremium. All three options come with the new DIY service, IT support and legal assistance. ProteccinBasic guarantees essential home coverage at an affordable price. ProteccinPlus also covers the costs of rebuilding or replanting a garden and covers 100% of the cost of glass and ceramic household appliances, among other things. ProteccinPremium goes that little bit further. As part of its signicant improvement, it covers the costs resulting from theft outside the home, solar panel breakage and damage to the property caused by adjacent building work. For more information on home insurance or to nd the name of your nearest broker, call or click now: 902255258 www.libertyexpatriates.es About Liberty Seguros Liberty Seguros is the leading expatriate insurance provider in Spain with over 150,000 international clients, committed to providing high quality, competitively priced insurance products and services to both personal and business users. Liberty Seguros has been in operation since 2001 and is one of the top 10 insurers in Spain with a total of 1.5 million customers. It is part of the Liberty Mutual Group of Companies, the 5th largest property and casualty insurance company in the US with more than 90 years experience in the sector.
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Christian Humanitarian Aid Charity in the Mazarrn & Surrounding area This is the prompting that Started our MAD Journey. Matthew 25 v 35-36 When I was Hungry you fed me, when I was Thirsty you gave me a drink, when I needed Clothes you clothed me, when I was a Stranger you invited me in, when I . God lls in the missing gaps. GO maD declares that In God we Trust for the evidence of Gods presence far outweighs the proof of His absence. GO maD has a staggering 640 adults and children registered; that even amazed us when we realised! Times are getting harder. After two years of no permanent work, many are asking
what does the future hold? We at GO maD hope we can help them nd the answer. To see grown men weep in desperation is a truly heart stirring experience, or to have your hand held tightly whilst thanks are given from eyes showing such gratitude and sincerity, just stirs the soul. GO maD is about showing compassion, letting them know someone cares and that they have not been forgotten. We really do take so much for granted, but it can change for any of us in a blink of an eye no-one is exempt from being brought to their knees! Our clients are no different from you and I; they lived bountiful lives, but now even hope is dying and without hope what is there? Volunteers are needed to help us in meeting the basic needs of those we help; We wish to open our Shop on Fridays, have you time free? Maybe you prefer to sort through donations or love ironing?! Can you help with shopping for food and bagging it up? Are you strong enough to collect furniture, or help pick-up the daily waste food we receive from a local supermarket, which
then is distributed to various clients? Do you have translation skills with a few hours spare? Consider joining us on one of our four Aid Days; giving out food and clothes and see for yourself the smiling faces, or join Outreach on home visits and see how the other half live! Spring is in the air! We are holding a Charity Fashion Show on Friday 13th April at the Trevi Bar, Camposol B at 3.30pm. Entry is 1. Come and see our Spring Collection. All our clothes are donated, but what treasures we receive. We still hold our monthly Table Top Sales on the last Friday of every month, weather permitting on Camposol B. Come and nd a bargain and help us to continue Making A Difference. If you would like to be part of this MAD team then please contact us as below, or call into our Shop and let the Team Managers know there is strength in numbers! Shop: 634321161 Outreach/Enquiries: 634357137 Email:madmazarron@live.com Facebook: madmazarron
Have you ever wondered how different your life might be if you and all society had been brought up with the truth that you were born a Masterpiece; a unique and magnicent being, growing up gracefully with all the elements of our natural world, sharing your innocence and qualities with others in spontaneous moments, experiencing the delights and beauty around you and creating whatever lled you with passion and joy?
Have you ever wondered what life would be like if everyone was responsible for their actions and cared for themselves rst and each other in an unconditional loving way, knowing that the only purpose to life was to enjoy, indulge and be in each moment? Have you ever dared imagine everyone living and working together in cooperation and harmony, everyone understanding? After so many years of duality, there is no more need to ght, to judge, to doubt and be afraid. We are indeed all equal and there is enough of everything for everyone to share Earth and humanity is evolving and human angels around the globe continue to hold a new vision of our NEW EARTH. It is not too late; 2012 is a great year to choose change, to choose to embrace your unique and magnicent being, to awaken to your sacredness, being both human and divine and live passionately and creatively in the New Energy Consciousness Sacred Hearts are human angels who evolve consciously and share true compassion. We come together weekly; a coven of potentials and monthly, creative and fun workshops. We welcome you. Private readings are also available. A Guided Dreamwalk connecting with YOUR body consciousness, stepping back from YOUR centre of me to merge and expand into the new energy consciousness and invite NEW POTENTIALS into your life. Barbara Franken...Inspiring New Energy Consciousness
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CALLED TO ACTION Nothing says more about camaraderie, mutual respect and a common love for dogs than responding to an urgent call for help. PRO- SETTER Spain, a rescue association for abandoned setters and other hunting dogs put out this S.O.S in early March to all rescue associations and dog shelters in the Murcia Region to help rescue 70 Spanish greyhounds and podencos found in appalling conditions in Bullas, Murcia. Without hesitation, Galgos Del Sol together with La Fortaleza, Andreas Animal Rescue and the Henrietta Foundation got involved in Operation Rehala working alongside local veterinarians, volunteers and police who were only given 24 hours on 9th March to expedite this large rescue operation. Galgos Del Sol rescued 8 malnourished dogs from Bullas and a further 5 more the following day in a similar rescue operation in Mazarrn, including a heavily pregnant bitch, all of who
And in the midst of Operation Rehala..... While hurtling back and forth on the motorway in Operation Rehala, Galgos Del Sol came across a very frightened dog and with the help of La Fortaleza, rescued her. You will be pleased to hear that she is safe and sound at La Forteleza Rescue Shelter.
were given immediate veterinary attention. The police are looking into prosecuting the owners of the clandestine shelters.
SUCCESSFUL ADOPTIONS What wonderful luck! On 12 March, 6 Galgos were placed on ights bound for the UK. Here is one of the lucky dogsByron- who has found a new home in Scotland. WHAT AN HONOUR! It is with great pride that Ann Finch, the founder of Greyhounds in Need UK, has decided to adopt a three- legged galgo, from Galgos Del Sol, called Mario. Ever loveable Mario has adapted to his disability and there is nothing that will stand in his way to enjoy a full and wonderful life with Ann on the Isle of Wight.
(Photo courtesy of N. Feltham Photography) LAST BUT NOT LEAST If you would like to make a donation or help Galgos Del Sol with future rescue missions, please contact Tina Solera at galgosdelsol@ hotmail.com. More information about how to make a donation is available on the website. AND FINALLY... Galgos Del Sol would like to thank all the animal rescue shelters that responded and helped with Operation Rehala. Together we can achieve the impossible!
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ARE YOU MAKING FALSE ECONOMIES? TAKE ACTION TO SAFEGUARD YOUR HEALTHCARE IN SPAIN AND INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH ASSSA INSURANCE info@asssa.es www.asssa.es The Spanish Social Health System (Seguridad Social) like the NHS in the UK, is designed and funded to ensure that it can cater for the emergency treatment of all persons in possession of either a European Medical Travel emergency card (EH1C) or a SIP card. You may use these cards at your local Medical Centre (Centro Salud) or Social Security Hospital. However, you will notice that the key word with the EH1C card is, in a travel emergency situation. In order to obtain fully comprehensive cover from the Spanish Social system, you will need to qualify for a full SIP card. Full SIP card entitlement will only be granted by the Spanish authorities to those persons who can show that they qualify through working and paying contributions into social system funds, presenting the correct paperwork from their country of origin to show that they qualify for reciprocal funding, or by applying to make voluntary contributions. The days are long gone whereby SIP cards were once issued just because Expats had taken up residence in certain districts. Due to the ongoing global nancial crisis, Spain will be taking a close look at where it can make even more savings. The Spanish Social Health System is already understaffed and grossly under-funded. Foreigners not contributing to the social system can no longer expect to receive anything other than emergency medical treatments while these circumstances exist. Indeed, many people who are already in possession of an SIP card are taking out a private health insurance. This precautionary measure ensures that they have all the additional ben-
ets that this affords them: Immediate access to private hospitals and private physicians. A personal advisor in one of our customer service ofces to support your medical needs. No language barriers. No waiting periods for doctors appointments and/or emergency operations. Extensive annual medical preventative check ups. Do not make false economies in this current climate of economic difculty. Invest in your health and insure yourself adequately with a private health insurance from ASSSA. We currently have some exceptional offers of up to 30% discount on our brochure prices, for the entire lifetime of your policy. Starting from day 1 of your policy, you can qualify for the benet of an extensive medical check to include for ladies, a mammography and mammarian scan, smear test and bone density test to detect the early signs of certain cancers and osteoporosis. For gentlemen, PSA blood test, Electrocardiogram (ECG) and urological scan, to detect the early signs of prostate problems, cancer and heart disease. The premium to obtain these valuable services starts at under 50 years old from around 60 per month excellent value for money. Amongst many other benets, in addition, you would be entitled to 30 to 60 physiotherapy treatments each year. For example, you do not have to endure back pain any longer with the benet of immediate treatment. ASSSA private medical insurance premiums start from as little as 43 per month, so there is really no reason not to have the peace of mind that results from having some form of cover in place. ASSSA offers unique guarantees: The age you join is the age you stay no increase in premiums due to
simply growing older. Guaranteed for life cover is guaranteed irrespective of advanced age or your claims prole. The exibility to move to us from your current insurer without loss of cover for those conditions already covered by them.
Why not ask us for a completely non-obligatory personal quotation? ASSSA will be pleased to advise you and answer any questions. In order to ensure a rst class service for our clients we stay close to you through our local customer service ofces along the coast with a personal advisor at your disposal. Our multilingual female advisors take time to offer non-committal consultation and advice in order to recommend the right level of insurance for both your budget and medical needs. We are also happy to make hospital and doctors appointments for you including those for your annual medical checks. In addition to health insurance, ASSSA also offer very attractive terms for Dental and Funeral Insurance, both also offering immediate cover. Why not just call in and see us! There is an ASSSA ofce or Agency close to you, or you can telephone any of our ofces for a personal appointment. We are happy to answer your questions in your language by email ASSSA Customer Service Ofce: Mazarrn Tel: 968 153 396 Diane Nolan. mazarron@ asssa.es
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FAST ATTEND 16 CALL-OUTS ALREADY THIS YEAR! The total of call-outs to date is 96 residents of Camposol who have been helped in their hour of need from starting in June last year to the 7th March 2012. Interestingly the bulk of calls seem to be daytime calls in the past few months. There is some concern that callers are all too often calling FAST before calling 112 for advice because they do not want to call the emergency services unnecessarily! This can be a very high risk action as vital minutes can be lost in alerting the professionals, as many will already know. FAST (First Aid Support Team) Camposol, are there to give support whilst waiting for the emergency professional arrive and although we have the training to give support such as maintaining a good airway, CPR, and are Murcian approved to give oxygen and use AED / DESA (use a debrillator) as well as bandages, we are not professionals and are not permitted to give professional advice legally. The only advice we can give to anyone is seek professional medical attention, although we will do our very best to support anyone requiring it completely free of charge, through using the above techniques. So PLEASE, in
the event of a medical emergency - First call 112 and then call FAST 968 970 626 and we will come as quickly as we can 24/7 365 days a year. EASTER FAYRE FAST are holding an Easter Fayre to assist with fund raising at Marianos, Camposol A on Easter Saturday (Semana Santa) 7th April from 11-3pm. Entrance 1. Over 32 stalls, including tombola and rafes, but with many new ones. There will be lingerie, perfumes, paintings, water lters, home-made and professionally-made cakes and pies, jewellery, bags, Indian spices and sauces, secondary glazing, new security camera systems that can video your property onto your mobile phone or computer, plants for a brilliant summer garden and many more stalls!! Come and see us on 7th April and also learn how to do the simple most effective thing that helps someone who has become unconscious, providing a clear airway so that the tongue or other soft tissue does not block
the airway. We will be giving a demonstration on this simple technique. Who knows, you may want to join FAST as we always need new keen people to join us and receive training to help others in an emergency. If you would like any more information on joining FAST Making Camposol Safer For All, or seeing what you need to do to start the service up in your area, then ring Kaz on 626823081 or Glen on 634313572 or email fastcamposol@hotmail.com or see us on Facebook! FAST IS A REGISTERED CHARITY Number G30863658
SHOW MUST GO ON! One of the items for discussion at this months meeting was the possibility of winding up our little group. Some of the volunteers have already left in expectation of the council taking over to continue the good work. Our thanks once again to Beryl Holland from Sector A Committee
for attending our meeting and keeping us informed of the current status. As previously reported in this column, work is being done by the council, although it is still uncertain how this work will be paid for. Some streets have been cleaned, some have not. As yet we are not able to obtain a schedule for this work. On the day of our meeting it was noted that much more work was needed, especially in the high use areas around the commercials and the health centre. As always, our volunteers were there to maintain standards. It was also made clear that the council have no intention of maintaining the garden areas that our group have worked so hard to create, let alone continuing the projects not yet completed, so there is still much work to be done. It was accepted that the group should be proud of what had been achieved so far, and were prepared to continue to work to protect what had been done, and to complete all of the planned improvements.
All team leaders agreed to start work again in full this month, and to try and persuade as many people as possible to join in. Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee was also discussed. It was agreed to commemorate this event by buying 60 Queen Elizabeth rose trees which would be planted in new garden features to be created in prominent areas on Camposol A. Volunteers are requested to help in planting, providing irrigation, and placing yet more gravel, which will inevitably be required to display this new project. Work should start soon in the hope of being completed by June. Weed clearing continues. Signs have been bought and will soon be in place, requesting dog owners to assist us in keeping our streets and public areas clear of mess, plus some to encourage the general public to be more thoughtful in discarding litter, and we are still ghting the problem of the last (we hope) processionary caterpillars. The show goes on, yet this could still be the last report from the Sector A Gardening Group. It looks almost certain that Sector A will be renamed Los Palacios. Postal addresses will remain the same - my post box will still be A512. Anyone interested in helping, please leave a note and someone will be in touch. Happy Easter! Dave Senior Peake
A great evening was had by all at our March Games Evening, most of us easily confused by the musical chairs during the Beetle Drive! Tickets sold out and our overall prot was 485, the breakdown of which can be found on our website. We received an undertaking from the bar that future Greenngers functions will have discounted drinks as previously arranged, due to their misunderstanding about pricing. Thank you all for making it a resounding success!
mature conifers which have been planted opposite the old MASA ofce. Please check the chalkboards for any future functions, the next being our Annual General Meeting at the Golf Club in early April, details will also be in our April newsletter delivered to all residents of C. We are holding a street party celebrating the Diamond Jubilee on 4th June, with a BBQ and complimentary glass of cava for the Loyal Toast save the date! New volunteers are always welcome on Wednesday mornings when your sterling efforts are rewarded with a free breakfast and refreshments plus the incentive of making many new friends! Please check our website and Facebook for full details of February accounts and for any further information. Bernard, our chairman, can be contacted on 626513842, email spainvilarosa@gmail. com or visit the website http://www. greenfingersgardenandsocialgroup. com/
The Welcome to C feature is already looking lovely and will be nished by a new bench so we can all take a breather on our way to and from the precinct whilst enjoying the lovely owers planted nearby. Many more tons of gravel have been delivered and laid by the working partiesjust think of those muscles, guys; by Summer youll have bodies to make the ladies faint! As the nal few streets were weeded, a regular spraying programme began. The chemical used is pet-friendly and will control re-growth during warmer
months. 450 new plants have been put in if there are any near your casa, please keep them alive with a good watering now and then, thanks. There are so many ways you can help us, even if you cant afford a monetary donation. Our volunteers are always grateful for drinks and we are happy to have your unwanted plants or decorative pots (chipped or broken is ne) to decorate the borders. Particular thanks must go to Andrew Brown who has donated 150 plants and to a Spanish family for donating the
Especially bearing in mind the inadequacy in matters of quantity and quality of information that is coming from an administration that claims to pursue a policy of open governance, a letter is to be sent to the Mayor explaining the dissatisfaction felt by the CRA to this situation. On a more positive note, it has been reported that the Council and MASA are together working towards the imminent adoption of A Sector, although there is still a number items of an infrastructural related nature that need resolving before this should happen. Works in legalising illegal properties on RE3 are claimed to be nearing completion which will allow not only the relevant escrituras for these dwellings, but habitation certicates for the whole of the sector to be issued after adoption. Good news hopefully for those affected with the lack of legal documentation on D32 and D32 comes by way of an expected prompt
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It must be said that confusion and uncertainty surrounding MASA and the completion and adoption of Camposol reported in last months issue, still remain. It now seems that much of the four million euros that was claimed to be available for nancing necessary work is in fact subject to successfully recovering money from various legal actions against MASA and the council have already stated on a number of occasions that the developer has no money. With little or no nancial resources available from either MASA or the elusive guarantees, the question must be asked of how realistic is the urbanizations chances of completion.
determination of the long-running rambla issue. This action will allow the Plan Parcial, and Plan General amendments that are holding up the issuing of escrituras on those poligonos. By law there has to be a percentage of properties on the urbanisation that is allocated the Turistico label and it looks like the council are looking to alleviate the concerns of those owners who have unwittingly purchased properties of that type. This would be done it seems by way of re-categorising the present dwellings
while still meeting the required quota by re-designating undeveloped areas to that purpose. Let us hope however that MASA are made fully aware of this administrations undertaking and that no further development, Turistico or otherwise, will occur before the whole of Camposol is accepted as suitably completed. Website: www.cracamposol.com email: info@cracamposol.com
Since the A Committees election in January 2011, we have had a change in administration and your committee has sought to establish a good relationship with the new council. At our last meeting with the council we made clear our intention to maintain a non-political approach and expressed our appreciation of progress on Sector A. Adoption appears imminent, but no date has been conrmed. We have had our AGM and you will know that election of a new committee will take place on
21 April at Restaurant Marianos. The majority of current members will be resigning and hopefully there will be new candidates willing to stand for election. We will need the candidates CV handed in to the ofce ASAP. We are currently working on registration of voters which as before will be one per household. Anyone willing to help please contact the Committee on 603109974 for details. All details will be posted in the window.
You will have received a request in your post boxes asking for approval in name change for Sector A ie Los Palacios This is a preliminary move to assess the support before progressing further. No change in address will result from the change. We look forward to seeing as many as possible at the meeting on 21 April between 3pm and 6pm at Marianos, Camposol A.
Age Concern goes Spanish The Age Concern ofce on Camposol is open for advice every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning. You can also bring us your bric-a-brac or larger items at these times or register as a volunteer. Every last Friday in the month sees a stall outside the Salud Bar on Camposol B. The February Menu del Dia was at La Barraca in Puerto de Mazarrn on the last Wednesday in the month. The food was excellent; salad and a chicken noodle soup, with a main choice of chicken and roasties or battered sh with chips. A dessert choice of two followed with many opting for the crme caramel. The wine owed and the meal was capped off with coffee. The entertainment was varied with Clifford and Julia providing some dance music, Roy and Di the promised Welsh element and Trevor and Brenda provided some pop renditions which included
Trevor doing that Tom Jones classic, Delilah. It was voted one of the best afternoons so far with 55 enjoying their time. The next Menu del Dia is at Mazarrn Country Club, and is accompanied by Bingo and Play Your Cards Right. A second coach full of ex-pats from Mazarrrn visited Murcia on16th March. The free Talking Shop Age Concern Social is on 4th April at the Cultural Centre on Camposol and April 13th brings us the Grand Spring ball at the Sensol Golf Club, with the Beagles and a four course carvery by Jimmy Stewart. The summer Fair is at Lagartio Verde as usual in the port on the Via Axial and stall holders can book by phone! (634 336 484)Or register at one of the usual places Wednesday 4th April, free Talking Shop Social at Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 1.30pm
Friday 13th April Grand Spring Ball, Sensol Camposol Golf club, 18, music with the Beagles and a 4 course carvery by Jimmy Stewart Wednesday 28th April, Country Club Menu del Dia, 10, 1.30pm Saturday 12th May at Lagarto Verde, Via Axial, Puerto de Mazarrn, Summer Fair from 11am-3pm. Stall holders phone 634 336 484 Tickets can be bought from outside the Salud bar on Camposol B on a Friday morning, or in the Bar Peyma just by the tourist information bandstand on a Thursday morning. They can also be bought from the main Age Concern Ofce, 968 970 687 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, 10am-2pm. Age Concern are very anxious to increase their selection of bric-a-brac, books and clothes. You can drop anything off during opening hours at the ofce.
Fiestas Camposol are pleased to announce that with effect from March they are once again giving away a new Citron Car in their grand prize draw at the esta in June. Tickets are only 10 and a maximum of 2000 will be sold. This is a great opportunity to win a new car with so few tickets sold. Tickets are available on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday outside Consum on Camposol B, on Thursdays at the Camposol market on Sector A and on Fridays and Saturdays on Camposol B Commercial Centre. The hours are 10am to 1pm each day. Would you like a new car? Remember you have to be in it to win it! GOOD LUCK Dickie Davies
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Translate the English words below into Spanish
Wordsearch
Suduko
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Difcult
AGREEMENT PAGE COUNTRY TOOTHPICK/ CHOPSTICK PIGEON AVOCADO BACON HANDKERCHIEF UMBRELLA HEAVEN WALL WALKWAY TABLET LOUT COMB DANGEROUS BALL SOFT TOY HAIRDRESSER SMALL COAT HANGER PARSLEY NEWSPAPER SPICY LEG SILVER FULL DUST FUTURE SPRING TIME Answers on page 100
Monthly Quiz
April Quiz Questions on the March 2012 Costa Clida Chronicle
1. 2. 3. Who came under new ownership on April 1st? What does Dr Oliver Houdusse do? Who is producing the WRYD SISTERS? 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Where can you create A look youll Love? Where can you treat the woman in your life? Where can you shape up for the summer? Who is offering a 247 callout service? What herb is Herb of the Month of March? 9. Who claims we all deserve to live the good life? 10. Where can you see Franco in a fridge?
5 or contact Teresa 619 199 407 To place an advertisement with us please see page 98 or contact Brian 628 606 740
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The shame in Spain I recently started my activities in a facebook group - Animal Welfare support Murcia, whilst waiting for the Association, Actin to be registered by the Town Hall. Actin - Animal Care Treatment International Network is not a rescue charity, but an Association, which will endeavor to make changes to the overwhelming situation of abandoned and neglected dogs, cats and other domestic animals in the region. We plan to do this through many activities including education and campaigns.
120 of those were planned to be destroyed. This is going on all over Spain. These misfortunate dogs are mainly hunting dogs, either dumped by the owners or left to these people who either do not know how to take care of the dogs, or perhaps, as in the case of the Bullas situation, want to use the dogs to breed dogs for next years hunters. Some hunters dispose of these dogs like unwanted garbage. Those of you that have never known a Galgo or a Podenco; these loving intelligent and gentle creatures do not deserve this. They have served their masters and are then treated as though they were an unwanted and useless piece of machinery. The Bullas rescue was planned by an organisation called Pro- Setter. A legal battle ensued against the owner to get access to the dogs and access was allowed on a few arranged days, when only registered organisations could go in and rescue these dogs. I went along with the Little Pod Foundation, a great organisation who have been very active in many rescues, including the one of the Beagles released from the Barcelona Laboratory. Along with them, we made plans to rescue 8 Podencos. I was proud to be part of their team, as it was a heart rending assignment, choosing which dogs to take and which to leave and I am glad I didnt have to make the choice. A lot of planning had to be made very quickly prior to the rescue, for the veterinary treatment, the travel, the tests and inoculations and of course foster care. It seemed impossible with so many other things happening and needy dogs everywhere. Funds had to be acquired for all of this and at the moment most charities are struggling, with the worst season for abandonment in many years.
wagged their tails and I swear I could see in their body language the relief when we arrived. Many were chained to trees so tightly that it cut into their necks. They had sores where they were so thin, lying on the cold ground, standing in their own pooh, sick and urine. Their poor legs were sore and some had mange. They had been fed occasionally on potato crisps and stale bread by their owner. Once the volunteers had access and were able to give them food their poor little tummies could barely cope with it. It was lovely to see that as many of the dogs were put on collars and leads and given love and strokes, their demeanor changed as the day progressed. The worst part of this day was that I knew the huge freshly dug holes in the ground were lled with the bodies of the poor creatures who did not survive. I didnt dare look, but photographic evidence was taken and I believe very harrowing to see. A voluntary vet chipped the dogs as the charities decided which they would take. They were passported and vaccinated for rabies. That part of it truly impressed me as it was all voluntary and paid for by contributions and charities. What a fantastic bunch of people! Local charities that I know of who helped and rescued in Bullas were Noahs ARC, Andreas Animal Rescue, San Animal Santuario, Galgos Del Sol, who have been involved in both the recent cases in Mazarrn and Bullas and many more charities were there, from all over the region. We have many dogs locally that need help, so it makes situations like this all the harder. However, this is an epidemic and we all need to help wherever we can. Well done to all those that found the time and resources somehow to help all these dogs. I hear that at the end of the day all dogs were rescued, but I am sad to report that the owner has another site where the same thing is taking place!! We must now try to ght, to make sure these people are not allowed to do this again. As for the Bullas situation, we still wait to hear the outcome of whether the owner is prosecuted. If the hunters cared for their dogs; if sterilization and care for these hunting dogs was made compulsory and a hunter could only own a dog with that criteria, we may be somewhere towards resolving a little of Spains animal problems. There are many Spanish who care about this (I have met many of them) and many of the organisations involved were Spanish. The problem lies higher than just with the people. I hope never to see anything like I saw last Friday ever again. Vivienne Wharton
Many ex-pats and local caring people will have been touched by this situation in some way, either by rescuing dogs and in some cases nding they have too many to cope with, or just by the constant awareness of charitys in need of help and support so that they may continue the work of rescue. It came home to me last month that it isnt just a case of abandoned dogs on the streets, something much more tragic has been going on since the end of the hunting season. Unscrupulous owners are keeping dogs enmasse in terrible conditions, allowing the dogs to starve or to suffer from disease and of course left in the open elements of a cold Spanish winter. When I say en-masse, I mean 100s!!!
I did not plan to be involved in rescue, but it is impossible not to. There are charities that I want to support, information that I need to know and my natural need to save animals. I cannot bear their suffering. It was with a heavy heart that I found myself going last week to the much publicised Bullas Rescue in Murcia. Previously there was the case of the 150 dogs in Mazarrn that Galgos Del sol and Andreas Animal Rescue were very much involved in that saved many suffering dogs. There is another case of 300 dogs in Cuenca where
When we arrived we were shocked to see the conditions these dogs were in. There were many hoarded in one huge enclosure, some of them terried, some of them barely able to stand. The stronger ones still
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Pol Ind. Marimingo - C/. Campo de Cartagena, 27 - 30180 BULLAS (Murcia) Telf./Fax: 968 654 007 entornograf@entornograf.com www.entornograf.com
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Chris & Steve formally of Bar la Pea have had to move from Puerto de Mazarrns oldest bar only a 100m or so further along the paseo. This is due to Bar la Pea needing a great deal of money spending on it for major repairs.
delighted to offer their clients a huge variety of tapas (40+) and also a great menu with several vegetarian options. The menu has an international avour with food from all over the world such as paellas, lasagne, burgers, sandwiches and not to forget Chris and Steves famous freshly battered cod from an amazing 5. Restaurante Marina also serve Menu del Dia every day for only 10 and on Sundays they offer Traditional Sunday Roast at 8 which includes a caa of beer or a glass of wine.
Having taken over Restaurante Marina (old Kings Palace) this is now the only English owned restaurant on the Paseo in Puerto de Mazarrn, Chris and Steve are
Basil, or Sweet Basil, is a common name for the culinary herb Ocimum basilicum sometimes known as Saint Josephs Wort in some English-speaking countries. Basil, originally from India, is best known as a culinary herb prominently featured Italian and Taiwanese cuisine. Depending on the species, the leaves may taste somewhat like anise, with a strong, pungent, often sweet smell. The Basil plant grows up to 130cm tall and has light green, silky leaves. The owers are small and white in colour. Basil does not grow well in cold climates unless grown under glass and it prefers a welldrained sunny aspect. If there is not an ideal spot in the garden, Basil can be grown indoors in a pot, preferably in strong sunlight. It needs regular watering and can be propagated from short cuttings
One thing is for sure, you will always get a warm welcome form Chris & Steve and their staff at Restaurante Marina. Why not pay them a visit and soak up the Mediterranean sun on their terrace and enjoy some good home-cooked food?
For more information or check out the restaurantelamarina.
Basil is commonly used fresh in recipes and is usually added at the last moment, as cooking quickly destroys the avour. The fresh herb can be kept for a short time in plastic bags in the refrigerator, or for a longer period in the freezer, after being blanched quickly in boiling water. The dried herb also loses most of its avour. Basil is one of the call 968595902 main ingredients of pesto, the green Italian facebook page oil-and-herb sauce.
When soaked in water, the seeds of several Basil varieties become gelatinous, and are used in Asian drinks and desserts. They are used for their medicinal properties traditional medicines of India. They are also used as drinks in Southeast Asia. Lemon Basil has a strong lemony smell and avour, which is very different from those of other varieties because it contains a chemical called citral. It is widely used in Indonesia, where it is called kemangi and served raw, together with raw cabbage, green beans, and cucumber, as an accompaniment to fried sh or duck. Basil owers, when broken up, are often used in salads.
There has been much research into health benets of Basil. Essential oils found in Basil have shown to have antioxidant, antiviral and antimicrobial properties which can be used during the treatment of cancer. Basil has also been used for the treatment of stress, asthma and diabetes.
Mr Numpty, a 4 year old Spanish Pointer with 28 kilos of solid muscle and not an ounce of it between his ears. He has had his domain to himself for the past 3 years, coming into it beaten and half starved after hunters had turfed him out for not coming up to the mark as a hunting dog. Not able to cope with loud noises is a huge impediment for the training of a hunting dog!
Now for the Trained Assassin! Formerly known as Mr. Grumpy, he is a 7 kilo ash of white furry West Highland Terrier, approximately a quarter of the size and weight of Mr Numpty, but with attitude! He has come into Mr Numptys domain through circumstance, but right from the outset has made it known he will tolerate no asssnifng, no close encounter of any kind and his bowl is denitely a no, no! His Castle, i.e. under the bed and all that surrounds it, is unequivocally his domain. He will permit no intrusion; but there again he is Scottish!
Up in the back of the car Mr Numpty tied to one end of the seat; the Trained Assassin the other, both whining in anticipation of escaping from their connes and out into the campo. The car stops and they are released to the nearest bush. Mr Numpty, off gazelle-like across the eld. Born to run, he is in his element leaping through the shrub and long grass and clearing the scattered bushes with a single bound. The Trained Assassin, is short legged so he cannot keep up and runs unseen through the undergrowth and skirts around the scattered bushes. They pee over each others spot as they run and enjoy their freedom. They both run ahead, new smells to revel in, they are both lost in their liberation. Back at the car they are lapping up the bowl of water together, heads bowed in unison. The re is lit and they settle down, Mr Numpty on the small settee, the Trained Assassin resigns himself to the rug. Eying one another, they retreat to their own comfort. A noise outside, and they are both up to investigate, barking in unison, but the Trained Assassin is quick to take advantage and he has seized the opportunity to claim the prize position of the settee. He settles down and eyes Mr. Numpty who is now sitting erect, noble-like in front of him, eyes shifting; but he is too wily for that and he turns his back of him. One Nil!!
A liver and white handsome specimen of a dog; back wheels intact! He is loved by everyone he comes in contact with and he is reciprocal, except he has no social graces whatsoever. He has no preference to where or on what he pees over, or where he dumps. He is a dog totally in tune with his bodily functions which must be acted upon with immediate effect. Oh! He also detests water of any kind, except to drink it. Rain is a no no with him, but there again he is Spanish.
Defending his domain, he strikes like a trained assassin when Mr Numpty approaches for a morning ear hole scratch. Growling, snarling and snapping, he repels his foe with utmost vigour to send him packing out of his territory!
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There is now a vaccine for your dog against a deadly disease! After 20 years of cutting-edge research by high-level scientists, they have created the rst vaccine in Europe against canine leishmaniosis. When taken as a course, this vaccine can provide safe, effective and long-lasting risk reduction of developing the symptoms of leishmaniosis for your dog. It is a long-awaited vaccine solution which is now available in veterinary practices throughout Europe. C a n i n e leishmaniosis is transmitted by sandies. The disease is caused by the bites of infected sandies, often wrongly referred to as mosquitoes. If your dog is infected with the parasite, symptoms may
not show immediately. Dogs may suffer fever, hair and weight loss, skin sores, nail problems, anaemia, arthritis and severe kidney failure often resulting in a very painful death. Treatment up until now has only controlled the symptoms. There is no cure and in Europe alone there are 2.5 million dogs infected by this terrible disease. Vaccinating your dog with this new vaccine means that your dogs own immune system resistance to canine leishmaniosis is very much enhanced. The full vaccine course involves three injections given at 3 week intervals and will provide your dog with long-term internal defence against
symptoms of leishmaniosis. Like other diseases such as rabies, one annual revaccination will be needed to maintain the immune defence against leishmaniosis. Vaccination can be carried out on most dogs over the age of 6 months, provided they are free from other diseases such as leishmaniosis. Your dog will therefore have to have an initial blood test to ensure that it does not already have the disease. You should vaccinate your dog as soon as possible, so ask your vet about this new vaccine. Go to www. virbac.com for more information.
M e e t C a n e l a , (female) I was dumped on the door step with my 2 brothers. I know how to stand on my own ground when picked on by the boys, and I can do things all by myself! I also love cuddles. Will you give me a forever home?
Smike, approx 8 months o l d . (male) Taken in off the streets with his mother L u l u after his other brothers and sisters were run over and killed. He has only known living indoors for a few weeks. He is neutered. Loves to play with the other cats and eating is his favourite pastime. Meet Lulu, the mother of Smike. I was taken off the streets as I was in
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T h r e e little pups abandoned This is Patch. His age is about age 8-10 weeks. He was also left at the door step with his brother and sister. He will be a bit smaller than the other pups, but will have a lot of character to make up for his size. Absolutely adorable and loves cuddles and a little rough housing.
R i c k y , (male) will be bigger than Patch. Born to be a leader and loves to get into everything. He will grow up to be a faithful and good companion. Isnt he adorable!
danger. I am looking for a new home. I am just under 2 years old. I love to be fussed and absolutely adore food. Please contact us on 655027676 or email us at info@verdemurcia.com If you are interested in adopting your forever friend, please visit our website at www.verdemurcia.com
Tina Tait 0n 9th of March, 2012, Proyectos Emblematicos Murcianos SA (PREMURSA), the promoter behind Murcias Paramount Theme Park and LifeStyle Centre, signed the contract at the notary to complete the purchase of the land which is to become Paramount Park. The Mayor of Alhama de Murcia, stated in a press conference that, Now, there is no going back for the Paramount Park. Jesus Samper, the entrepreneur who drives this investment, reiterated his promise that building will start on schedule and emphasized that they are meeting the deadlines set forth since the announcement of the construction of the park two years ago. At the end of March, Samper travelled to Los Angeles to meet with the heads of Paramount Licensing. He will appoint a Paramount executive to represent the Hollywood studio giant as a member of the board in his company. Paramounts entry in PREMURSA will be very positive because it will mean more to the success of the project and they will be more active in decision making. PREMURSA company executive structure is as follows: Samper is listed as president and CEO, and his brother Juan Antonio. In charge of
theme park business, catering companies, advertising, travel and consulting are Santiago del Rio, Jos Luis Dardo de Marchi, Patricio Gandarias Geller and Luis Maluquer Trepat. James River, linked to Real Murcia (the football team also owned by Samper), is director of the economic and nancial team. On the technical side are James Lee Love, Fernando Inigo Soto and Francisco Martin. Paramount will have eight technicians, consultants and project supervisors appointed to set the tone of the future park so that it meets their requirements to market their brand and products. Advisors for communication, planning, nancing, environmental
and engineering rms are Serrano Associates, Rise Architecture and Planning, Project Engineering and Environmental Studies, and Vectoria Consultin. Corpn Capital Real Estate Group will assume the management and operation of future facilities. Many local companies and investors in the region of Murcia still question the success of the project given the current economic crisis and are criticizing the model of the theme park. For these reasons, they have not yet jumped on the bandwagon and put forward any capital. In response, Samper noted that the park is Paramount art, and offers something unique and different to the region. PREMURSA will be looking for investors on an international scale. Once more companies begin to invest in the project, hopefully local companies will start the cash ow to the project. According to statistics, PREMURSA must raise approximately 446 million euros from investors to build the project. Out of that total, 130 million euros is needed from outside investors and the rest will be most likely nanced by the banks. A third of the revenues will be derived from development and sale of the plots in the Life Style complex.
THE SHIP THAT WAS UNSINKABLE In the early hours of 15 April 1912, RMS Titanic sank. The RMS T i t a n i c was built in Belfast in 1912. She was the largest and most luxurious ship built at the time and measured 269 metres by 28 metres. She was meant to be unsinkable. The Titanic was the second ship built by the White Star Line. On April 10 1912 the Titanic set sail on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York carrying 891 crew and 1317 passengers. The captain of the ship was Edward John Smith, a very experienced sailor. The Titanic was carrying many people who wanted to start a new life in America.
in the side. Less than 3 hours later the Titanic plunged to the bottom of the sea. The crew had less than 3 hours to ll the life boats with crew and passengers. Many people refused to get off, not knowing what danger they were in, thinking that the Titanic was unsinkable and the policy of women and children rst meant that many of the life boats were only half full when they left the ship. Many of those that jumped into the sea died of hypothermia. Another factor that contributed to the high death rate was the failure of the nearby ship the Californian to come to the rescue even though she was within visible range, but the liner Carpathia rescued 705 survivors from life boats after the Titanic had already sunk. One thousand ve hundred twenty-two passengers and crew were lost.
Titanics maiden voyage will be celebrated by re-releasing the 1997 feature lm Titanic in 3D. ITV1 have produced a fourpart Titanic mini-series, written by Oscarwinner Julian Fellowes, to be broadcast in early 2012. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will perform The Titanic Requiem, a classical piece written by singer/songwriter Robin Gibb and his son RJ Gibb, on 10th April in London. The event will include a hologram show depicting the sea, the ship, and the iceberg.
The cruise ship Balmoral, operated by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has been chartered by Miles Morgan Travel to follow the original route of Titanic, intending to stop over the point on the sea bed where she rests on 15th April 2012. Although the wreck of the Titanic has never been recovered, the memory of the disaster has been kept alive through lms, books and the media. Nearly 6,000 artefacts have been lifted from it and are on exhibition today and memorials of the victims have been created, mostly in towns such as Southampton, which are associated with the ship and her people. On 6th April 2012, the 100th anniversary of
As the Titanic was supposed to be the safest ship ever built, it only carried 20 lifeboats - enough to provide accommodation for only half her passengers and crew. For the rst three days she sailed through calm waters, however on the fourth day she was near Canada and the waters turned icy. At 11:40pm on April 4th the ship lookout saw a huge iceberg. After steaming too fast, the Titanic scraped the side of the hull on the iceberg and made a huge hole
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Market Update Bookings from UK holiday clients are still down on previous years, and speaking to other local agents we are not the only ones experiencing this trend. With the Queens Jubilee tour just kicking off AND the London Olympics this summer, it seems that many UK based clients are deciding to have a staycation this year and make the most of these very special events. All this became clear as I sat watching TV the other night, and caught a marketing campaign run by the joint Tourist Boards in the UK, with a series of famous faces stating all the reasons why NOT to go abroad this year. No euros, no passport, no travel, no hassle seemed to be the clear message, to which I could think of several choice responses! On the positive side, bookings from Spanish, French and German clients are increasing steadily, and we are seeing more long-term rental enquiries than normal compared to previous years. We have already taken our rst bookings for 2013! Some people really do like to plan ahead. In the meantime I will just have to steer clear of certain commercial TV channels, and hope that I can win Euromillions to give me an advertising budget big enough to respond in kind on primetime TV. Liz Edmiston runs OwnersAway Property Rentals & Management offering a full range of rental management services to property owners on the Costa Calda. Contact Liz on 691977107 or info@ownersaway.com for more information or visit the website www. ownersaway.com to view the full range of properties and services.
This month the WARM group enjoyed 3 walks around the region of Murcia. The rst was led by Flemming who had chosen a lovely 12 km circular walk in the Cehegin forest area. There were 20 walkers, including 3 young Spanish. We started walking through beautiful open elds and later on we followed small tracks through the pine forest. It was so nice to see many of the almond trees in blossom. The weather was fantastic with very nice temperatures so some of the walkers enjoyed walking only in their T-shirts! After the walk we had an excellent lunch at La Lonja Restaurant in Cehegin. After the lunch Annelise and Flemming collected voluntary contributions from the walkers for the benet of abandoned dogs. Several of the walkers had brought different items which later on will be sold at a dog stand in Mazarrn also for the benet of these poor abandoned and mistreated dogs. The second was led by Wendy and Brian and took place on a gloriously sunny day. We met at Calasparra Station and then car-shared 3 kms to the start of the walk.
way along the crest, the clear sky gave us uninterrupted views to San Miguel and across to the Sanctuary. The path then slowly descended through countryside where, long ago, water erosion carved the land away leaving very impressive stratied rock faces. Las Minas came in to view over the elds as we rejoined the Segura before turning down stream, leaving and rejoining the river. When we stopped for a picnic, we took a slight detour to the weir, which is always a noisy and enchanting vision in dry Murcia. A short walk further along the track took us back across the bridge and ended our outing of about 15 kms. On the third walk, led by Jessica, one dog and 22 Spanish and British people completed a 14km in two loops from Fuente Capute, near Mula. The weather was perfect: sunny with a refreshing breeze. We started with a gentle walk along a barranco and up through fruit trees where the honey-fragranced almond blossom gradually gave way to dappled pinewoods. Descending past abandoned farmhouses and into the plain of Ardal, we picked our way down a second barranco to the cars. The second loop followed a wide stone track leading up through the pines, to a point overlooking the RM15. Following the ridgeline, we reached a point where it was impossible not to stop and admire the turquoise water of the Embalse de la Cierva and Mula Castle in the background. Dropping back down to the original watercourse we had lunch
under the aqueduct, watching red-beaked choughs collecting nest material beside the innity pool, before ambling contentedly back to the cars. Many thanks to all the leaders for the excellent walks. If you are interested in joining a group of walkers who enjoy the countryside around the Murcia region then please contact warm2005@gmail.com for further information.
We crossed the Rio Segura by bridge, slightly disappointed not to see the usual turtles basking, and followed the path up river for a short while before turning away from the river and up a winding track to the top of the hill. Wending our
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Berty a German Shepherd cross of approx 16 months. When he was found, he tested positive for Leishmania. He has nished his treatment of Milteforan and his latest test gave a negative result. Berty needs a home with someone who has the time to spend training him. He is a lovely boy looking for his forever home. The next MARA Car Boot Sales will be help on the
29th April and the 27th May.To book a stall please call Marion on 968979865 or 628811187. The Car Boot Sale will be held in the car park of the Sports Centre in Mula and stall holders to arrive at 9am
for 10.00am start. Stalls are 5 per car. There will be no charge for registered Charity stall holders. For more information on Berty or any other MARA dog, please call Marion on 968979865 or 628811187 or Keith on 628811188. The MARA shop is desperately short of items to sell in the shop in Mula. If anyone has anything that they could donate, please contact Marion on 628811187. Thank you.
After the extremely dry winter, the blossom on the fruit trees in the area was stunning. Lets hope that we do not get any late frost that will affect this years fruit. This is such a beautiful time of year with all the ground being freshly ploughed and the spring owers displaying their wonderful colours. Many people think that Spain is just the beaches and bars, but there are some amazing places to see in Northwest Murcia and joining one of the walking groups is one way of seeing some of them whilst getting some exercise. Many of the town halls have organised walks either round the historic towns, or the surrounding countryside, so it is worth investigating them. With the price of electricity due to go up again in April, maybe now is the time to consider solar power. Solar hot water is probably the most popular way of saving electricity and with all the sun we have had over the last few months, this has to make sense. There are various companies supplying solar power and Solar Directa is local to the Northwest Murcia region. Keith has
been supplying and tting solar hot water systems in Spain for seven years and by sourcing the equipment directly from the suppliers, Solar Directa systems are one of the cheapest, but the best. For more information give Keith a call on 659315130. The Caravaca Wine Festival will be held from 1st to 5th May (see short article on page 94). This is their biggest festival during the year and there will be thousands of people arriving by car and coach, especially to see the spectacular wine horses dressed in all their nery. There is so much to see in Caravaca that it is probably better to go at a quieter time to see it at its best. Market day is on a Monday and this market is probably one of the best in the area. There is also an artisan market held every second Sunday in the month. Details are available at the Tourist Ofce. Like most Spanish towns, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, but one of the nicest typically Spanish bars is the Cafeteria Plaza on the Gran Via in Caravaca. You will be made really welcome here and you can sit outside if the weather permits, to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or tapas. CEHEGN SCENE On the last Sunday of every month from October to June in the Plaza del Castillo, in the old town of Cehegin (Casco Antiguo) there is a craft market known as El Mesoncico. There you will nd more than 50 craftsmen of the area with stalls displaying such products as cured meats, hams, pottery, cakes, wines, cheeses, etc. Each of the monthly markets has a different theme showing traditional and local crafts. You will be able to taste and enjoy the foods and products most typical to this area. On Sunday 29th April we will enter into the World of Bulls and experience the atmosphere and products of the bullght. We will learn how the promising young bullghters of the area are trained and encounter lots of stalls selling bullghting themed gifts. You can taste rich beef casserole, draught beer and good wines of Cehegn while listening to the music of the artistry of the bullght pasodobles. Free parking is available at the Marble Tech-
nology Centre situated in Carretera Murcia, approached from the West. A free bus service is operated to the market place every 20 minutes. FREE NATURE WALKS Cehegin provides a variety of landscapes which include woods, mountains, hills, sloping valleys, scrubland and streams. These natural habitats host ora and fauna of special interest which provide a priceless tourist and educational resource. These walks take place on the last Saturday of each month. They are designed for people of all ages who enjoy hiking at fairly easy levels which makes them accesible for the whole family. The tourist walks are free and start at 9.00am, they are between 4 and 9 km, and will take between 2 to 3 hours. On 28th April our walk takes us to Embalse del Argos. This reservoir has tremendous ornithological diversity where we can watch the resident birds, as well as those migratory ones which pass through here at this time of the year. It will be 8 km and it will take about 2.5 hours. CAR BOOT SALE IN CEHEGN. ANTIQUES AND SECOND-HAND GOODS This will be on Sunday 22nd APRIL and is taking place in the square beside the old railway station in the Va Verde, just two minutes from Mercadona. There is plenty of room for parking and Stalls will be provided by the Town hall free of charge for the trial run. Anyone interested in booking a stall contact the Cehegn Tourist Ofce. All are welcome. Every weekend you can visit the Ecological Park opened to visitors from 10am-6.00pm at weekends; everybody is welcome. For visits during the week however, a reservation is required by telephone to 696775783. If there are any further enquiries please contact the Cehegin Tourist Ofce at 968723550 or visit our tourist website www.turismocehegin.es Santiago Leo Cehegin Tourist Ofce
Easter in Moratalla is synonymous with the tambor. The playing of this simple percussion instrument is an art that is passed down from father to son and the history-lled streets provide an amazing setting for a spectacle that has to be seen to be believed. There are a number of towns such as Mula and Cehegin that have a history of tambor playing and as a result an organisation has been formed called the Jornadas Nacionales de Exaltacin del Tambor el Bombo. There is a competition held annually and Moratalla has hosted this event on various occasions. It goes without saying that the Moratalleros feel very proud that they have preserved this unusual and original way of celebrating Easter.
Ruta 4. Ascensin al Lanchar de la Cruz desde la Risca. On 11th March, the morning had that spring smell and it greeted us in the village of La Risca in the Campo de San Juan. This was the beginning of a new route full of adventures. We walked absorbed in the small miracle of the changing season that begins to be evident in the vegetation and fauna around us. A woodlark perched on a owering almond tree sang his wonderful song as we approach the imposing sight of Lanchar de la Cruz, with some oak-juniper scattered on both sides of the road. The scenery couldnt be more impressive and as we approached, it seemed to grow before our very eyes, making us feel tiny. The chovas evolve before us with their acrobatic ights, carrying tufts of wool in their beaks to feather their nests, and when we stop we realised that in the upper Cenajo there was a huge white dove. We took it as a sign of welcome and picked up our cameras.
former home of someone who until recently lived here under difcult conditions. We decided to continue along the road and at that time, a bat appeared out of a crack from a few inches from our noses!
There are still local craftsmen who make the handmade tambores. Each drum has a distinctive sound and it is the result of several months work, making sure that a perfect match is achieved between the sheep and goat skins. Plastic is never used and even though screws have replaced the traditional strings for the tensioning of the skins, the traditional method is being revived. Moratalla is the only town where the tamboristas play their drums wearing a hooded robe. They cover their faces with a capirote, play individual rhythms and wear tunics in a variety of colours. The sea of colour makes a spectacular display with costumes being worn by people of all ages. The drums are played on Thursday, Friday and Sunday, supposedly from early morning until dusk, as recommended by the Bando Municipal, but in actual fact the playing continues into the early hours of the morning. The greatest inux of tamboristas occurs around noon until late afternoon in the area in and around the Farola. Bedraggled looking gures can be seen staggering home after a long night in the local bars. The Moratalleros hope that visitors are not put off by the thundering sound of hundreds of drums playing and that despite the deafening noise they will be able to enjoy this unique celebration. Ears may be tested to the maximum, but the energy and frantic pace act as a magnet without us really knowing why! Like all the local estas, the crowds seem to enjoy this spectacle like no other.
We walked along a narrow path under the spectacular cliffs to reach the overhang of the Cueva Escalona, and following the footsteps of the goats we found a kind of staircase, its layers naturally formed, which lead us to the Santuario bero de la Nariz - the path is not easy and requires knowledge of the terrain - it was a sacred place of ancient initiation rites. We then sat down to lunch with the stunning landscape of Campo de San Juan at our feet. The experience is unique and we left there after making the occasional silent wish. We then turned to another cave, la de la Capilla or del Camaril - Vertigo has no place here and for a moment we imagine to be mountain goats climbing to the top of this pen that looks more like an amphitheatre.
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Next stop was Cueva de la Sastra , the smell of artemisia was very intense as we climbed the steep slope along a path of goats. The cave-shelter, still inhabited, brought us the sharp trill of a wren singing, presumably trying to win over one or even several females. There were also the choughs, crag martins and a family of badgers ... not bad as a community of neighbours! We visited the
Re-starting the walk, we returned to nd another stairway with natural access to the summit and a view rotating 360 degrees into the distance. Here we took the main picture of our group before returning to La Risca rst and then the Zaen de Arriba where our hosts had prepared pigs tail, gazpachos manchegos and delicious desserts and donuts which completed our exciting journey.
St Nicholas Ecumenical Church Calle Sobrija 2248 Sector D20 Camposol By Rev Len Eaton MBE www.stnicholaschurchspain.com I know that 1st April has other meanings for some, but for Christians it is, this year, the day when Holy Week starts, the most important period in the whole Christian year. We call the week from Palm Sunday to Easter, Holy Week because we remember the events that happened in the last week of Jesus life on earth. On Palm Sunday we think of the children and adults who waved palm branches as Jesus rode into Jerusalem as the King on a donkey. In many Churches, palm crosses are held up in the Procession of Palms, and taken home to be placed somewhere prominent in the house. On Maunday Thursday we remember the Last Supper which Jesus held in the Upper Room with his disciples: the name comes from the new commandment which Jesus gave us, to love one another as he has loved us. In many Churches at the end of the Eucharist, commemorating the Last Supper and the Washing of Feet, the altars are stripped of their hangings to remind us of Jesus stripped of his clothes by the mocking soldiers who arrested him. Good Friday is a strange name to give to the day when we remember the awful pain in which Jesus died on the cross, but he showed there how God shares and understands our pains and promises that death will be followed by eternal life. So we venerate the cross in commemoration of his willing sacrice. Sermons may be preached on either the Passion or on the seven words of Jesus from the cross. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Then comes Easter Sunday and a further forty day season of joyful celebration as we rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus from the dead when we are lled with new life and hope.
If you feel inspired so to do we would be delighted to see you in Church Services for April 2012 Sunday 1st Songs of Praise (Palm Sunday) 10.30am Friday 6th Holy Communion (Good Friday) 10.30am Sunday 8th Holy Communion (Easter Day) 10.30am German Service 4.00pm Sunday 15th Morning Prayer 10.30am Sunday 22nd Holy Communion 10.30am German Service 4.00pm Sunday 29th Family Service 10.30am
Ever thought of working for the EU? The Foreign & Commonwealth Ofce is encouraging British nationals to consider a career working in the European Union. Working for the EU institutions can be one of the most satisfying and rewarding careers in Europe. This is not a single career. It is a lifetime of different, challenging and rewarding jobs. There are a wide variety of roles available to you as an EU civil servant: one year you could be drafting EU policy; the next you could be working on free trade agreements with emerging economies. The UK is currently under-represented in the EU institutions; we represent 12% of the EU population yet only 4.8% of staff working for the institutions are British. The UK needs to be equally represented in the institutions so that British culture, attitudes, laws and ways of thinking are considered throughout the organisation.
All services take place at Calle Sobrija 2248, D20 Camposol, where a warm welcome awaits you. Services offered by the Church are Wedding Blessings, Holy Baptism, Conrmation and Funerals. We have a Pastoral Service throughout the year, people who listen. Talk and are there to help anyone who is sick or in need. The Pastoral care is Foreign Secretary, William Hague said, The absolutely condential. For any of the Church Services offered, or other information, please call Rev Len Eaton on 968138952, Rev Deacon Maureen Kent on 636099679, or Rev Bro Konrad 679927268
EU plays a very important part in the lives of the people of the United Kingdom, and in the fortunes of the UK in the world. The EU needs talented individuals to work in its institutions, to make the right decisions, to work efciently and effectively. It would be a good thing for Britain for people who know this country, who understand this country, to be working in the EUs institutions.
The application window to apply for a career in the EU Civil Service opens on 15 March and will close on 15 April 2012. For further information visit the EU Careers website Benets of a career in the EU can include: A lifetime of different jobs Excellent training and development opportunities A competitive remuneration package Final salary pension scheme As a British citizen, to apply you will need to be a graduate in any eld as long as you have an honours degree of at least three years in length. If your main language is English you will need to speak either French or German as a 2nd language. However, if you are highly uent in another ofcial EU language, e.g. Spanish, you could choose this as your rst language and English as your second. This year the EU is recruiting a number of generalist policy ofcials at graduate entry level (AD05) and graduates with 6-7 years work experience (AD07). It is also recruiting a number of specialists in the following areas; Law, Auditing, Communications and International Relations. Candidates will need to have a relevant degree or skill-set to be considered for these roles. Press Ofce British Embassy Madrid 917146364
Road Victims We all notice how many animals seem to get killed on the roads in Spain, but it is not always the fault of the motorist.
on the road, and using reective barriers or cane fences on both sides of the road. The Platform of Road Security and Biodiversity suggests some measures that could be very effective: compulsory identication of all the animals and sterilization of the nonreproducers, collection of the animals on the road by specialised staff, adaptation of road structures, shelters and medical assistance, and a social recycling of the animals aimed at helping disabled people. This is a very serious problem, not only for the animals, but also for the drivers, as many accidents are caused by these animals wandering onto busy roads. Article written and supplied by Paco, Clinica Veterinaria Puerto de Mazarrn
The March meeting was a nature ramble on a beautiful morning in the lower slopes of the Sierra Moreras outside Mazarrn. 42 members were led by Chelo, a volunteer park ranger with the local countryside department, along the track alongside the ravine which leads to the old plaster ovens. Chelo identied a large number of plants for us and described their characteristics and traditional uses for animal feeding, medicinal purposes etc. She also showed us a number of poisonous plants, and explained various features of the landscape. Other information which Chelo provided was the name of a wildower book Flora Basica de la Region de Murcia, available in book shops, and a link to a PDF document http://repositorio.bib.upct. es/dspace/handle/10317/909, which gives copious information about wild plants which are suitable for growing in gardens. The walk was voted very enjoyable by everyone, and the morning was rounded off with lunch at La Siena Restaurant. Due to an administrative glitch, the report of our March meeting didnt appear in the last issue, so heres an update. Thirty plus members heard a fascinating illustrated talk by horticulturist Andrew Brown, on commercial plant growing techniques in the Bar Puente at La Majada. Having seen the scale and precision of the operations we were left amazed that we ever manage to propagate anything in our own gardens with our amateur skills. Plant sales and the rafe were followed by lunch in the restaurant.
According to the Society for the Maintenance of Vertebrates, published in the Trco Magazine, more than 30 million vertebrates die in Spain because a car runs over them. The habits of the animals is a great inuence in this fact: some of them get scared and stay still when they see a vehicle, some are looking for food (carcasses) on the roads verges and some simply chase across the path of oncoming vehicles. The path of a scared or injured animal is unpredictable. Pet animals (dogs, cats, sheep, goats and to a lesser extent, cows), are involved in 64% of the accidents. The remaining 36% are caused by wild animals, especially, wild boar, deer, and foxes. Most of the accidents take place when there is little light, and this number increases at weekends. Part of these road victims are amphibians, especially toads and frogs, especially between March and April. Four million are reptiles, and the snake is the most at risk, especially between June and August. It is estimated that 12 million birds die on our roads every year, above all sparrows, but also there are many birds of prey that hunt on the roadsides. The General Trafc Regulation states that pet owners are responsible for any damage caused, and the Civil Code reiterates and adds that it is their responsibility even though the animal may have escaped or gone missing. The Penal Code can be put into force in the case of any accident causing injury or death.
Come and enjoy a fun afternoon in the countryside. Map of location on our webpage at Bolnuevo. com/Social/Darwinian gardeners
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The Ministry of Public Works has already taken some measures to prevent this kind of accident, like the deforestation of the roads edges to help motorists see the animals, Our next event is the Garden Party erecting barriers impregnated with a subon Saturday April 14th, at Cortijo Raja, stance to dissuade animals from venturing Puerto Muriel, Morata. There will be stalls, competitions, refreshments, ice cream van, burgers, and entertainment by the Rainbow Singers. All proceeds to the Associacin Espaol Contra el Cncer. Info 669 338 885
Only a few letters in Spanish are really hard for English speakers to pronounce, but the letter P is denitely not one of them! It is just like the English P, the only difference being that it is slightly softer. This happens with many of the Spanish consonant sounds; they are lighter and less emphatic than ours, so the P is a gentler sound that at times can be slightly more difcult for us to distinguish when we are listening to it. For example, there is a town in the north of Spain called Palencia which to English ears can sound remarkably like Valencia so be careful! There is absolutely no shortage of words beginning with P in English and Spanish that have similar meanings, so here is a small selection of them. Paciente (patient, in the same two senses as in English), pacista (pacist), pacto (pact), plido (pallid, that is pale), paralelo (parallel), paranoia (paranoia), patriota (patriot), pedal (pedal), pelvis (pelvis), penal (penal), perfecto (perfect), perfeccin (perfection), perfume (perfume), permanente (permanent), persona (person), politico (political and politician). There are plenty more where those came from, but as always, there are also a few words that look as though they match but dont. One of these is parientes which
means relatives or relations and not parents. The word for parents is padres, which also translates as fathers. These problem translations work both ways and you will sometimes hear Spanish people mistakenly using the word fathers for parents when speaking English. Another example of this is the word particular which means private or sometimes individual. For example, you might hear Es un camino particular, Its a private road, or Voy a clases particulares, I go to private classes. Particular has a few meanings in English, but the Spanish translation of the most obvious use, as in a particular place, would be un lugar especco or un lugar determinado. One last example of estranged cousins is the word popular which in Spanish retains its purist meaning of of the people. Therefore the political party Partido Popular should be translated Peoples Party and not Popular Party which gives it a difference meaning. Likewise Banco Popular means Peoples Bank, a title presumably aimed at attracting the ordinary man on the street, (I would normally say man or woman here, but I suspect the bank was established at a time when women had very little say in these matters). I nd it fascinating how these original meanings get diverted to other related concepts through their use over the centuries. In English the word popular has all but lost this original of the people idea and now makes us think of famous people or catchy tunes. Mind you, if you think about the origins of pop music and pop culture in general, these were conceived as art and music for ordinary people, rather than for the elite. On the everfascinating topic of the way that words develop, there is a common way in which words extend in meaning which is to add prexes to the beginnings of them and sufxes to the ends. A common prex which can open all sorts of meanings for us is pre which means before. Here
are some examples of what I mean. The verb to say is decir, therefore predecir means to say beforehand in other words to predict. Notice how the English word takes on the Latin form predict, whereas in our language to say is not to dict although we do have words like diction and dictation. Here is another example, the verb Therefore to suppose is suponer. presuponer means to presuppose, that is, to suppose something beforehand. From this we have the Spanish word presupuesto for what we would call an estimate for a piece of work, that is the presupposed price. I particularly like this nal example, which is to do with judgement on the one hand and pre-judgement on the other. In this case we have the word juicio meaning a judgement or court case, whilst prejuicio translates directly as prejudice. I like this one because we sometimes use the word prejudice which thinking of its real meaning, a judgement that is made prematurely (another pre-word) and is therefore not reliable. Now for something entirely unrelated and trivial: you remember all those family photos when you instructed granny and the kids to say cheese before you pressed the button? Well, the Spanish photographers always tell their subjects to say patata. This is curious in as much as this produces a different mouth shape from cheese, although it does illustrate rather nicely the openness of the Spanish a vowel. I think this is one to practise in the mirror. Finally lets look at some more Spanish sayings containing a P word. Heres a nice one: Ms vale pjaro en mano que ciento volando, which literally means, Its better to have a bird in the hand than a hundred ying but of course is our A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Heres another rather pleasing one: Llamar al pan pan y al vino, vino. To call bread, bread and wine, wine, in other words, To call a spade, a spade. which is what I try to do, although perhaps dont always succeed! Jane Cronin, Spanish Classes and Talks. www.janecronin.eu Tel: 968183258 Try working out the Wordsearch on page 70 using words beginning with the letter P.
This month has brought new hope to us. www.olivebranchfellowship.com An Evangelical, lively and friendly place Gypsy who we have had for nearly three years has a new home in Torrevieja, and to discover the love of Jesus. Mufn who we have also had for some time John Lennon wrote that Life is what happens has found a home in Camposol. We wish to you when you are busy making other both our dogs and their new families well plans. This could lead us to depression if our and hope that it is a long and loving time life is full of regrets or unattained dreams. that they have together. Hold-up! All we need to do is press the Refresh button on the top left hand corner This last month or so has seen our involvement in the rescues of galgos from of the screen! Isla Plana near Mazarrn, as I reported last month. Then we were told of 120 galgos and Podencos in Bullas WOW!!!!!! So, along with Galgos Del Sol, we managed to retrieve 14. All the dogs that have been taken from Isla Plana and Bullas are under the wings of Greyhound charities throughout Europe. The dogs that were rescued were all in need of veterinary treatment for injuries and malnutrition. I am pleased to say that all the dogs that we got out are safe and on the mend slowly. This morning we were called about a dog in one of our local villages. She was very thin and in quite a poorly state,. Arrangements were made for her to see our vet and upon examination found that she had in fact been shot at close range with a pellet gun in her leg. This has become badly infected to the actual bone. She also had three lengthy cuts across her body. This according to our vet has been done by a sharp blade / knife. She had also had her tail severed. What a state this poor poor girl is in .just give me 10 mins with the people who have done this to her. As I write, Paco our vet is operating on her. She will stay in hospital for a couple of days and then if well enough she will go into foster care. She will require several months of antibiotics and injections. She is such a placid girl, and even with the pain she must have been in, did not show any aggression towards her saviours. We have called her Biscuit and she will be up for adoption when treatment has been completed. Pictures can be seen on our face
book page, if you would like to donate to this poor girl you can do so ,either via Paypal link Andreasanimalresuemurcia@ hotmail.com or directly to me on Mondays at the car park Camposol B 11.30-1.30 pm. Thank you.
Here are two of our other dogs needing homes.
Isnt it true that we really dont appreciate what we have until we lose it? I frequently hear the comments of people returning from a trip to the UK having been reminded of how dull and grey the weather is over there. This refreshes our view of the country we live in and should help us appreciate the weather and the scenery here; our health as well. Most of us have periods of illness from time to time, but do we appreciate the times when we are well? Refreshed?
Do we make the most of the time we have with our kids, and our friends? Perhaps we need to refresh our commitments there? Life waits for no man, as we know, but what we do with it and how we appreciate it, is down to us. As Christians we believe that we have eternal life because of what Jesus has done for us but we also believe we only have this life to discover this. Jesus said The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly John 10v10. Press the Refresh button and take a new look at life and discover what abundant life could be. Our Sunday morning service is at the Community Centre on Camposol B starts at 10.30am each week and offers a variety of music and styles, both traditional and modern. You are invited to join us.
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Every Mon
Wellbeing Clinic/Calida Caring Agency @ Janes Salon, Bolnuevo 2nd Hand Goods to Buy/Sell/Help at Home Brendas Boutique, Estrella de Mar, Los Urrutias, 10am-1pm Yoga with Mar Carmen @ Bolnuevo, 10am Slimming Club @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 11am Andreas Animal Rescue/Shop Collection Car Park, Camposol B, 11.30-1.30pm Hoy (card) Bingo/HELP MMM La Zona Bar, Los Alczares, 1 per game, 2pm GO mad Available for Donations @ Cultural Centre, Camposol B Costa Calida Radio (Pto), 3-5pm Childrens Modern Theatre Dance/Louise Sensol Hotel, Camposol C, 5-6.30pm, 8+ Zumba for Adults/Louise @ Sensol Hotel, Camposol C, 7.30-8.25pm (no classes between 3rd and 10th April) Fun Music Quiz @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 8pm Music Quiz @ Alley Palais, Camposol B, 9pm Pensionista Day 1 discount @ Cats Bar, Camposol A Weekly B Clean Working Party @ Camposol B, 9am MAMAS Collection/Book Stall @ Camposol B Car Park, 10am-1pm Pick/Try/Choose/Buy/Donate@ MABS Murcia NE 10.30am-12pm Apts Maruja, Baos de Fortuna, Dance Fitness to Music/Annette @ Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 11am Darts and Dominoes Night @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 7pm Poker Night @ Alley Palais, Camposol B Gardening Group Clean Up @ Camposol C, 9am Bridge, New Players Welcome @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 9.45am Yoga/Mar Carmen @ Bolnuevo, 10am 2nd Hand Goods to Buy/Sell/Help at Home Brendas Boutique,Estrella de Mar, Los Urrutias,10am-1pm Age Concern booking events etc @ Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 10am-12pm Zumba for Adults/Louise @
Sensol Hotel, Camposol C, 11.30-12.25pm (no classes between 3rd and 10th April) Art Workshop with MABS MMM @ Cafe Golf, San Javier, 11am PALS for booking events etc @ Saralaras, Pto de Mazarron, 1-3pm Creative Writing Group/Annette @ Camposol, 2-3.30pm Book/DVD Club with Help at Home @ La Zona Bar, Los Narejos. 2.30-4.30pm Fish and Chip Night @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 6.50 Zumba for Adults/Louise @ Sensol Hotel, Camposol C, 7.30-8.25pm (no classes between 3 rd and 10 th April) Happy Dinner (buy 2 meals, get 1 free) @ Restaurante Amapola, Bolnuevo, 20 Quiz with Kev @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 8.30pm Mens Darts In the Evening @ Cats Bar, Camposol A Beacon of Light Weekly Meeting 7-8.30pm Old School House, Caadas del Romero, Karaoke/Disco with Lisa B @ Alley Palais, Camposol B, 9pm Every Thu Camposol Market @ Camposol A Wellbeing Clinic/Calida Caring Agency @ Dental Care, Camposol B, 10am-4pm Alternate Thursdays Pick/Try/Choose/Buy/Donate MABS Murcia NE 10.30-12.00pm Apts Maruja, Baos de Fortuna Slimming Club @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 11am Coven of Potentials/Sacred Hearts @ Mazarrn Country Club, 11am-1pm PALS for booking events etc @ Tels Bar, Camposol B, 11-1.30pm Latin Beats/Annette @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 11.30-12.30pm Zumba for Adults with Louise @ Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 11.30-12.25pm (no classes between 3rd and 10th April) Andreas Animal Rescue Collection Point Mazarrn Country Club Bar, 11.30-1.00pm Mini Movers Creative Dance/Drama with Louise 3-5 yrs 3-3.45pm @ Hotel Sensol, Camposol C Modern Movers Dance/Louise 5-8 yrs Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 4-4.45pm Street Dance with Louise 8+ yrs @ Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 5-6pm (no classes between 3rd and 10th April) Karaoke with Bernie Mac @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 9pm Ladies Darts in the evening @ Cats Bar, Camposol A Bridge, New Players Welcome @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 9.45am Book Sale/Bric-a-Brac. Noahs ARC @ Camposol B, 10am-2pm 2nd Hand Goods to Buy/Sell/Help at Home Brendas Boutique,Estrella de Mar, Los Urrutias,10am-1pm Book Stall/Camposol A Gardening Group
Every Tue
Every Wed
Every Fri
Car Park Camposol A. 10.30-12.30pm Lions Bahia Mazarrn booking events etc Outside Kennellys, Camposol B 11-1pm Age Concern booking events etc Outside Trevi Bar, Camposol B 11-1pm Grand Auction 12pm Tel 968 136 501 A Time for a Change, El Algar. GoMad Available for Donations @ Cultural Centre, Camposol B Costa Calida Radio (Pto), 12.30-2.00pm 10 pin Bowling/Camposol C Garden @ Totana, 4pm Mark Phoenix Hypnotheraphy @ Dental Care, Camposol B Cod & Chips from 6 @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn, Fish & Chip Special for 2 from 19 @ La Marina, Pto de Mazarrn, Fresh Fish Night, 3 Courses 10 @ Don Ricardos, Pto de Mazarrn, 10 Fish & Chips & Live Music @ Hacienda del lamo Clubhouse, 12 Bingo @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 7.30pm Disco @ Alley Palais, Camposol B, 9pm-1am Every Sat Book Sale/MABS Murcia MM @ Outside The Arches Bar, 10am-1pm 2nd Hand Goods to Buy/Sell/Help at Home Brendas Boutique,Estrella de Mar Los Urrutias,10am-1pm PALS for booking events etc @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 11am-1.30pm Dance and Drama/Louise 8-12s @ Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 11.30am (no classes between 3rd and 10th April) Live Entertainment @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn 3 course Saturday Special @ Don Ricardos, Pto de Mazarrn, 20 Fish & Chip Special for 2 from 19 @ La Marina, Pto de Mazarrn, Karaoke/Disco with Bernie Mac @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B. 9.00pmlate Car Boot Sale, 8.30am @ Caadas del Romero Social Centre Car Boot Sale, 9am-2pm @ El Romero, Cuevas de Reyllo HELP MMM Car Boot @ Autocine, Los Narejos Sunday Lunch @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, from 4.50 Sunday Roast @ La Marina, Pto de Mazarrn, 8 Sunday Roast (lunchtime & evening) @ Don Ricardos, Pto de Mazarrn, 10 Sunday Roast @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B Sunday Roast @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Karaoke/Disco with Bernie Mac @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, From 7pm Fun Quiz @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 8.30pm
Tuesday 3
Book Swap with Welcome @ ICA Medical Centre, Camposol B, 10am-12pm Knitting Club (UK Wool Shop) @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 11am Volunteers Meeting/MABS MMM @ Las Claras, Los Narejos, 11am Annual General Meeting/HAH @ The Arches Los Alczares, 11.45am Friendly Game of Crib/Welcome @ Marianos, Camposol A, 7.30pm, 1 Friends & Buddies Evening @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 8pm Ofcial Opening of Shop MABS MM, Los Alcazares
Wednesday 4 Lions Meeting @ Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 5pm Talking Shop Age Concern Social @ Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 1.30pm. Thursday 5 Maundy Thursday Boat Show inc. Boat Trips 10 ph (MABS) San Pedro del Pinatar, 10am-6pm Good Friday Outdoor Market Stall/MABS Murcia NW @ Calle Segura, Calasparra, 9am-1pm Tori, Cod & Chips avail 6 @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Calida Country Music Club (CAF) @ La Molata, Caadas de Alhama, 8pm Good Friday Dance/PALS @ Sensol Golf Club, Camposol C, 5 World Health Day Easter Fayre/FAST @ Marianos, Camposol A, 11am-3pm, 1 Village Fte/Fashion Show/MABS MMM @ Rio Nalon, Los Alczares, 11.30-4pm Easter Craft Event /MABS NE @ El Paraiso, Baos de Fortuna, 12-3pm Welcome Meeting @ Marianos, Camposol A, 2pm Suzie G @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn The CAS Band @ Hacienda del Alamo Clubhouse
Friday 6
Saturday 7
Every Sun
APRIL Sunday 1
April Fools Day New Ownership-Grand Opening @ Tropikana Bar, Camposol A, 1pm Artisan Market @ Bullas Launch of Menu del Dia, 5.50 @ Tropikana Bar, Camposol A
Monday 2
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Sunday 8
Easter Sunday Easter Eggstravaganza with Easy Horse Care @ Rojales, from 1.00pm with music/ easter egg hunt/display etc 3 Course Easter Menu (lunch & evening) Don Ricardos, Pto de Mazarrn, 10 Easter Monday Guided Walk & 4 course meal/drinks @ Hotel Mariposa, Gebas, 12 Hot Chocolate & Calypso King @ Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 6 (1 to FAST) Bando de la Huerta Murcia Fiestas de Primavera Blanca Trip to Bando de la Huerta Festival, Murcia Viajes Dragontours, 15 Table Top Sale/HAH @ La Zona Bar, Los Narejos, 10am-2pm Charity Stall/HELP MMM @ La Zona Bar, Los Alczares, 11am-2pm General Meeting/HELP MMM @ Las Claras, 12pm
Tuesday 17
Monday 9
Book Swap/Welcome @ ICA Med Centre, Camposol B, 10am-12pm Ebony/Ivory Ladies Lunch Club/MABS MMM @ Diamantes Restaurant, El Mojon, 1.30pm, 10 Knitting Club (UK Wool Shop) @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 11am Friends & Buddies Evening @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 8pm Cliff Richard Tribute @ Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 8 (1 to FAST)
Tuesday 10
Wednesday 18 Coach Trip to Mojacar/Bedar with PALS Inc trip to the Market, 25 inc. lunch Chatters/HAH @ The Garden, behind Euromarina Alcazares, 11am Monthly Dance/Welcome @ Marianos, Camposol A, 10 (food 5) Thursday 19 Auction of Promises/HAH @ Novo Carthago, Los Urrutias, 7.30pm Trip to Jumilla with Viajes Dragontours 19 (& 13 to visit Wineries/Tasting) Outdoor Market Stall/MABS Murcia NW @ Calle Segura, Calasparra, 9am-1pm Booksale/MABS Mazarrn @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 9am-1pm Share & Care Group/MABS MMM @ MABS Cancer Centre, San Javier, 11am Spring Fte/HELP MMM @ The Arches, Los Alcazares, 2pm Fun Quiz, Cod & Chips avail 6 @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Calida Country Music Club Night/Kerry K @ La Molata, Caadas de Alhama, 8pm (CAF) Fun Quiz/HAH @ La Vereda Restaurant, Sucina, 3 Queen Elizabeth IIs Birthday Walk with The Evolutionists Starts near Pto de Mazarrn, 10.30am Steve Fisher as Rod Stewart @ Hotel Mariposa, Gebas Cliff Richard Tribute @ Camposol,8 (1 to FAST) Tel Kim: 699203136 Martin Ross @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn London Marathon Cehegin Car Boot Sale @ Old Railway Station, Cehegin, 10.30am St Georges Day 23-29th Barcelona Open Tennis Tournament Guided Walk & 4 course meal/drinks @ Hotel Mariposa, Gebas, 12 St Georges Day Celebrations/ Good Old English Food @ Alley Palais,Camposol B, Quiz/Music/ Karaoke, 8pm
Friday 20
Wednesday 11 Menu del Dia/ESAMD @ La Marina, Pto de Mazarrn, 2.30pm Volunteer Meeting/MABS Murcia NW @ Hotel Argos (between Calasparra & Cehegin) 5pm Thursday 12 Hot Chocolate & Calypso King @ Camposol 6 (1 to FAST) Tel Kim: 699203136 Indoor Market/fashion/bling/DVDs etc @ Alley Palais, Camposol B Indoor Market @ Kennellys, Camposol B Booksale/MABS Mazarrn @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 9am-1pm Fashion Show/GOmaD @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 3.30pm, 1 Lenny Mitchell, Cod & Chips avail 6 @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Grand Spring Ball with Age Concern, Sensol Golf Club, Camposol C, 18 inc music/food. Barrington @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Steve Fisher as Rod Stewart @ Hotel Mariposa, Gebas Singalong with Ron/HELP MMM, @ Luis Lounge, Camping La Encina San Javier, 7.30pm 7.50 Quiz Night/MABS MMM @ The Arches, Los Alczares, 7.30pm, 7 Garden Party with Darwinian Gardeners @ Cortijo Raja, nr Morata, stalls/entertainment 6-8 hour Guided Walk & BBQ/Paella @ Hotel Mariposa, Gebas, 12
Friday 13
Saturday 21
Saturday 14
Sunday 22
Monday 23
Monday 16
Tuesday 24
Monthly B Clean Meeting @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 4pm Friends & Buddies Evening @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 8pm Clairvoyance Evening/Beacon of Light @ Condado de Alhama Function Room, 8pm, 7 Noahs ARC AGM
Sunday 29
Artisan Market The World of the Bull @ Plaza del Castillo, Cehegin, 10am Sevillanas Social Meeting @ Asturias Restaurant Car Boot Sale with Mara @ Sports Hall Car Park, Mula, 10.00am Fiestas del Barrio San Jos Obrero (to May 2nd) Cieza
Monday 30 Wednesday 25 ANZAC Day San Marcos Bullas Lions Trip - San Javier Market & Iceland Supermarket with Lions 12 Petanca/ Welcome @ Marianos , Camposol A, 4pm Race Night/Welcome for MABS @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 7.30pm, 3
MAY Tuesday 1
Fiestas del Barrio San Jos Obrero Alcantarilla Beach BBQ/PALS 13 Bolnuevo
Wednesday 2 Trip to Caravaca Wine Horse Festival Viajes Dragontours, 21 Thursday 26 Golf Day/MABS MMM, Food/Entertainment @ La Tercia Golf Club,10am, 35 (7 non-golfers) Volunteers Meeting/MABS NE @ Las Palmeras, 10am A Day of Angels Workshop/Beacon of Light @ Caadas del Romero, 10am-4pm, 15 Greek Tasting Night Don Ricardos, Pto de Mazarrn, 17.50 Indoor Market/fashion/bling/DVDs etc @ Alley Palais, Camposol B Indoor Market @ Kennellys, Camposol B Table Top Sale/GoMAD @ Camposol B, 10am-2pm Walk with NEST with optional meal 10.30am @ El Berro Car Park, Sierra Espua Booksale/ MABS Murcia NW 11am-2pm @ Trevol Bar, Urb Tierra del Sol, Calasparra, Jigsaw Bereavement Group @ Cats Bar, Camposol A, 2pm Friendship Group Meeting/HELP MMM @ Cafe Golf, 12pm inc Beauty Demonstration Live Entertainment, Cod & Chips avail 6 @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Rock n Roll Night/Fiestas Camposol @ Marianos, Camposol A, 8pm, 5 (10 inc food) Nature Walk to Embalse del Argos (8km) Cehegin, 9am 7 Course Gourmet Night @ Alley Palais, Camposol B, 25 Barrington @ Hotel Mariposa, Gebas Robbie James @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Queen Tribute Band with Helping Hands @ Hotel Puerto Juan Montiel, Aguilas, 8.00pm, 20 inc hot/cold buffet Menu del Dia with Age Concern @ Mazarron Country Club Restaurant, 1.30pm, 10 Thursday 3 Santsima y Vera Bruz Caravaca de la Cruz Santa Cruz Abanilla Los Mayos Alhama de Murcia Fiestas de la Santa Cruz El Estrecho, Fuente Alamo Santa Cruz Ulea Spanish Lunch/Entertainment/HAH @ Ruf Mari, Los Urrutias, 12 Christine, Cod & Chips avail 6 @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Live Entertainment @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrn Lions Trip to Velez Rubio/Velez Blanco 55 Inc coach,lunch,tour guide & serranno ham per cple Table Top Sale/HAH @ La Zona Bar, Los Narejos, 10am-2pm
Friday 27
Friday 4
Saturday 5
Tuesday 8
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Saturday 28
Colour coding guide: Entertainment and special menu nights are Red Markets,exhibitions,leisure,activities and meetings are purple Charity and non prot making organisations are green National events are orange Fiestas are pink Important dates are blue
Every year during their May celebrations, the city of Caravaca de la Cruz puts on an amazing party. On May 2nd, the many groups are up before dawn to dress their horses in the incredible embroidered mantles, braid their manes and tails, and make them as beautiful as possible. After a blessing, and mass, from the Templete, the horses begin their practice runs, warming up for the nal race up to the Castle.
the castle, but also ower offerings at convents, blessing in wine of the piece of the Ttrue Cross, the most famous relic of Caravaca, parades of the Moor and Christian troops and their king and queen. There is something going on all day long.
This festival is part of the May celebrations of the True Cross. Mixture of legend and history, the special celebration involves not only the horses and their magnicent embroidered mantles, the nal race to
Viajes Dragontours is organizing a trip to this colourful festival, early departure from the Mazarrn area and a full day to participate in and enjoy a truly Spanish experience for just 21.
Voice of Hot Chocolate Show In 1994 GREG BANNIS performed on TVs Stars in Your Eyes with HOT CHOCOLATEs You Sexy Thing. When Errol Brown left the band Greg became the new lead singer, fronting the band for 15 years. HOT CHOCOLATE is a British soul + funk band which started in 1969 their greatest successes included songs such as You Sexy Thing, It Started With A Kiss, So You Win Again and Everyones A Winner. They also played at Prince Charles and Lady Dianas wedding. Greg is now pursuing a successful solo career around the world. His Voice of Hot Chocolate Show also includes Calypso King soul and reggae songs.A great vocal performance and a very entertaining show. + Disco Tickets are 6. N o - o n e does Cliff like Cliff. As If Tony Wa d s w o r t h BBC Radio Leicester. This top CLIFF R I C H A R D Tribute is performed by WILL CHANDLER,
who is considered by many to be the No.1 Cliff Richard performing lookalike. Even Sir Cliff himself commented to Will on his remarkable resemblance when they rst met in 2008, announcing Its good to meet me! The Cliff . As If Show has travelled extensively across the UK and Europe. This tribute is not just about music, but also comedy as Will takes a very light-hearted approach to his tribute to the Peter Pan of Pop. The audience are invited to join in and expect plenty of laughs. Will also sings songs by artists such as Elvis, Ronan Keating, Matt Munro and Sinatra. There will also be a supporting artist for a full nights entertainment. Tickets are 8. For tickets and info tel Kim on 699203136 1 per ticket will be donated to the fantastic FAST group. Facebook-KimsEventsSpain for info on Tropical Nights Hotel Sensol and other events.
Fancy a Bit of Racing - As nice as it is sailing around the Mar Menor, why not take your sailing experience to the next level by racing your boat? SAMM, a friendly bunch of mixed Nationalities but mostly British, runs a programme of Race
Days throughout the Spring and Autumn from the CAR Infanta Cristina Los Narejos, just south of St. Javier airport. They use the British RYA Portsmouth Yardstick handicap system to race a mixed eet of dinghies, catamarans and small day boats. A cruiser class could be included given sufcient interest. You do not need previous racing experience as many of the current competitors did not sail before they came to Spain and the entry fee is a very modest 5 per person per race day; the money being used to run and maintain the support boat. A Round the Island warm up race opened the Spring Series on Sunday 18th March with racing then every alternate Sunday till the end of June. If you do not have your own boat come
along and have a chat to us as we are always looking for new members. Why not come and join in the fun?
For more information go to sailingmarmenor.com/racing telephone Terry on 968956056.
www. or
Want to save strokes with your short game? Keep your left wrist at by David Gay PGA Professional The majority of golf strokes occur near or on the putting green, but every day on the driving range I see players who have no concept of how to hit a basic short shot, whether its a putt or a chip. If you want to save shots and lower your score, here are some tips. First, understand that a putting stroke and a chipping action are pretty much the same. So why is it that players often fear these short golf shots? The answer is that the cause of the issue is the breakdown (or collapse) of the left wrist in the hitting area. I like to call the bottom of the golf swing the impact zone. When the left wrist bends or ips during the swing, the club head travels in an upward direction when it should move down and forward through the swing. When I see great putters, I see absolutely no change in their wrist position. The left wrist is at. When I see great chippers, I notice a at left wrist at impact and into the follow-through. This is a very important swing dynamic to work on. Some even refer to a at wrist as a secret. When I see a golfer with bent wrist action, I suggest they consider changing to a at left wrist type stroke. Start with your putter and position your left wrist on the golf grip so that your at left wrist matches the at club face. I have my students check this by holding the club perpendicular to the green and visually check the putter face alignment to their at left wrist. If your grip in straight the two should line up.
Now, you are ready to roll a few putts. When putting, focus on your shoulders moving the arms and the at wrist. The shaft and the left arm should form a straight vertical line. Check this in front of a mirror or stand next to a wall and press your arm and club up against the wall. With this alignment you will feel a solid impact with the ball. Make sure the left wrist is at. Next, try it with a short iron. The chip swing is the same as a putt, but the set-up is different. What I recommend is to play the ball back in your stance, lean the shaft left so your hands are opposite your left leg, aim your feet left of the target (10-30 degrees), open your stance and keep your weight on the left foot. Now, make a putting type stroke with the at left wrist. Notice that the club head stays low to the ground after impact and the left
wrist is still at. The divot or contact point with the turf is in front of the golf ball. The at wrist ensures that youll make solid contact with the ball. Keep the shoulders, arms and club moving at the same pace. The at wrist keeps this in line. This will help you control the distance and direction of your short shots. For more information on golf lessons and club repairs you can nd David at Roda Golf Academy on contact on 6700 83939 email: davidgaypga@mac.com
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CLAIM YOUR FREE TICKET FOR MAZARRON FC V UCAM GUADALUPE DUE TO BE PLAYED ON SUNDAY 29TH APRIL 2012 Los Amigos de Mazarrn FC is offering a number of free tickets to the above game in order to promote awareness of both Los Amigos and Mazarron Football Club.
the Tuesday before the weekend on which the game is to be played and announced via the local media, our website www. losamigosdemazarron.es and on posters at various points throughout Camposol and Mazarrn. Provisional xtures for the remainder of this season are: Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday 29th April 6th May 13th May 20th May 27th May UCAM Guadalupe (HOME) FC Puente Tocinos (AWAY) UD Los Garres (HOME) Thader Murcia CF (HOME) Ceuti Atletico (AWAY) The annual end of season Player of the Year Dinner will once again be held at the La Sienna Restaurant, Mazarrn on Monday 28th May when, in addition to the Player of the Year Trophy voted for by members of Los Amigos, there will be a Players Player of the Year Award and a Young Player of the Year Award both voted for by the players themselves. All the trophies will be donated by Los Amigos de Mazarrn FC. If you are interested in football and would like to take part in Los Amigos de Mazarrn FC activities, please join us for our weekly meetings, every Thursday at the Trevi Bar, Camposol B at 4pm. Membership of Los Amigos is just 10 and all funds raised are in support of Mazarrn Football Club. You can also take part in our very successful Key in the Box Competition with the cash prize often rising to 1000 - a great gamble for just 1.
Admission to home games is just 5. Los Amigos de Mazarrn FC organise coaches to all away games and the cost of a coach ticket is 7. Coach tickets can be purchased at our weekly meetings which are held at the Trevi Bar, Camposol B every Thursday at 4pm. On the playing side, performances have improved since the arrival of new coach, Jelco, and the team are playing a more attacking formation and more attractive football. A recent highlight was the 1-0 home victory against league leaders Huercal-Overa. It will take time to turn things round, but the signs are encouraging. In addition, the juvenile team are top of the league at the time of writing with only four games remaining and the cadetes remain in second place in their league so Mazarrn has many promising youngsters on its books.
These tickets will be available on a rstcome-rst served basis from the Trevi Bar, Camposol B on Thursday 26th April from 2-4pm, and on Friday 27th April from 10-1pm. Los Amigos de Mazarrn FC merchandise, including football shirts, scarves, hats etc will also be on sale. In addition, anyone taking out Los Amigos membership for 10 on either of those days will receive membership for the remainder of this season and all of next season, ie to 31 July 2013. Mazarrn games are normally played on Sundays with varying kick off times. Home games are played at the Estadio Municipal, Avenida de Juan Carlos 1 in Mazarrn. There is ample street parking and there is also a parking area opposite the main entrance to the stadium. If you are unfamiliar with the stadium, a map showing its location will be on display in the Trevi Bar. If you do not have transport to the game, this can be arranged for you on request. Full details of all games, both home and away, are announced on
Sell Trophy Competition Mar Menor Golf Society held their February 2012 Sell Trophy Competition at their Mar Menor village (ex-Polaris world) home course.
Jersey. Runner-up position was secured by Bob Preedy and 3rd place was awarded to Philip Peace, with the 4th position going to Sam Cooke who achieved an eagle on the 7th, a par 5 hole. Unfortunately for Sam, he ran out of steam during the last few holes and this was reected in his overall score. To obtain full details of competition scores, recent competitions and future events, please refer to www.masterscoreboard.co.uk/ marmenorgolfsociety (members only) Information required by new members and guests, please email mmgolfsociety@ gmail.com Mar Menor Golf Society plays competitive golf every Wednesday. New Members and Guests are welcome
Diane Sell awarding the competition trophy to overall winner John Littlemore, with John Sell and Mar Menor Golf Society Captain Bob Bushnell (far right) overseeing The rain and hail during the night prior to this competition did not dampen the players enthusiasm and 45 players started. John Littlemore achieved his rst major competition win since returning from
Over the past months, our student Tim Kellinghusen has participated in several tournaments in the regions of Valencia and Murcia. On 29 January, on the golf course La Torre, Murcia, Tim won, with 39 points, the rst classication in the third category of the circuit Miguel Angel Jimenez.
During February, Tim played in 2 tournaments in La Serena Golf and picked up the prizes for the rst and second handicap category classication. In his last tournament, Tim played on the golf course Foressos, near Valencia. During this tournament, Tim dropped his handicap from 19 to 11, with a result of 49 points. All the students, the teacher of golf, Alex Ward, the director of golf for Lo Romero Golf, Jaime Ibez Pealver and the director of the municipal school of golf Ral Victoria, want to congratulate Tim in his victories.
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After many days of searching the Tour of Murcia website, the race routes were eventually uploaded to the site 2 days before the rst race of this 2 day event!
in the Tour de France) and our British rider Jonathan Tiernan- Locke for the Endura team and winner of this years Tour of the Mediterranean and Haut Var race in France. The rest of the riders were in small groups.
Friday 9th March, Mazarrn Miners played their nal CBBA match for this season away to El Rancho Raiders. This match was to be the ultimate decider for Mazarrn, could they hang on to the top of the league position? All Mazarrn needed to do was win 8 of the possible 14 point available to them. This would ensure that even if Horadada, the team immediately below Mazarrn in the league, scored the full 14 points available, they couldnt beat Mazarrn. With the pressure on and all players primed and focused on their mission, it was game on. It became very clear that this match wasnt going to be a push-over and apart from 2 of the games which seemed to be going Mazarrns way, the other 4 games werent so assured. After a very nail-biting match, Mazarrn Miners managed to pull it off by winning 4 of the 6 games, giving them 10 points to secure them the top spot of the CBBA league in their division. Well done to all the Mazarrn players for
Day 1 was a 195k hard and hilly race starting in Archena, going south to Alhama and Totana and then on through Lorca, climbing the 2nd category accent, heading for Mazarrn which was our rst place to watch the race. We arrived to the top of a 6k climb with about 30 minutes to spare, before the due time of the race, giving me a little while to put out a couple of easy chairs on an uneven and rocky outpost, whilst taking care not to drop the lunch from my lap which was gingerly perched on my knees with great skill. The weather was warm sunshine with a light breeze, in much contrast to last years grey skies, cold temperature and light rain. The race passed with a leading group of riders of 6 and the bunch of 145 just 2 minutes behind. As soon as the last vehicles had passed, we jumped in the car and headed to our next view of the race this time in the Espua, near La Santa (Aledo). The stage nish was high in the Espua, so when the race passed our viewing spot the early group away were still holding a 2 minute gap with the bunch of 45 riders, including all the race favourites of Juan Cobo (Spanish and Winner of 2011 Tour of Spain), Samuel Sanchez (Spanish and Olympic champion), Johny Hoogerland (Dutch and in the news last year for being knocked off his bike by a race ofcial car
After Aledo, Jonathan Tiernan -Locke attacked, taking the Colombian rider (Nairo Quintano from Movistar) with him, but after many attacks by Locke the Colombian managed to stay with him and edged out a 16 second lead to win, with Locke second.
Stage 2 was a 12k time trial around the working so hard in achieving No 1 position. streets of Murcia with the weather still very good. I decided to ride into the City to watch Another big the race its a 3 hour round trip, but it took event in Mazme half an hour more on the way back due arrn Bowls to the strong headwind. Locke eventually Clubs busy managed to take 10 seconds out of the calendar was Columbian but was second for the overall 2 the 2012 Club days race with the Colombian winning.
Championships held over the weekend of 10th & 11th March. The weather was excellent, which encouraged many much appreciated spectators and was certainly ideal conditions for the players. A barbeque was supplied by the club and run very efciently by some of the club members. There were some very lengthy and interesting matches and some that went very much down to the wire, so all in all a brilliant weekend. Congratulations to all winners: Mens Singles - Mike Chambers Ladies Singles - Julie Cooper Mens Pairs - John Sparrow & Alan Benton Ladies Pairs - Julie Cooper & Nina McKenzie Ladies Triples - Helen Chambers, Barbara Male & Barbara Benton. Mens Triples - Colin Sears, John Wright & Gordon Tottey Mixed Pairs - Julie Cooper & Richard Cooper Mixed Triples - Janet Tarrant, Brian Pigott & Jim Tarrant Mixed Rinks - Barbara Male, Sylvia Logue, Brian Pigott & Harry Male Robertson Trophy - Alan Benton Handicap Mixed Singles - Brian Pigott
If you are interested in joining Mazarrn Bowls Club then why not check out our webpage mazarronbowlsclub@webs. com or tel Captain on 637461038 or Secretary on 968131619 Report by Wendy Reynolds
Armed with plenty of balls and ball retrievers at the ready, the Old Guard visited La Serena Golf Resort for its February Stapleford competition. The weather was ne and three England-based members turned up to enjoy the day.
Phil Carter showing off his well honed swing. La Serena is a great course and golfers need to be on top of their game to avoid the many lakes and water hazards. In fact only two holes have no water to negotiate. Head Caddie Master Raquel was her usual helpful self and ensured that every got off on time. Overall Winner and Winner of Division One was Roger Grainger scoring 30 points. Roger Olorenshaw scored 28 points and was the Overall Runner-Up and Division Two Winner. Playing his third game with
Peter Court hoping for a perfect fairway shot into the rst green. the society, Paul Western was Winner of Division Three with a score of 21 points. Nearest the Pin at the short par three seventeenth was Roger Olorenshaw and Captain Barry Martin won Nearest the Pin 2nd Shot again at the short par four thirteenth. He must really like this hole because he won the award last time we played here. Keith Dyball received the customary singsong from members as he stepped up to collect the Plonker Trophy. Ron Smart and Ian Murphy shared the spoils in the Twos Competition. Well done to all the victors. Forthcoming Events in 2012: 29 March Monthly Stapleford at Altorreal.
26 April Monthly Stapleford at Hacienda del Alamo. 31 May Monthly Stapleford at Condado de Alhama. 14 June Captains Day at Aguilon. 5 July Monthly Stapleford at La Peraleja. 29 November Gerry Clarke Memorial Rose Bowl at Hacienda Del Alamo. 1 December Christmas Presentation Evening. Venue to be conrmed. If anyone is interested in joining, wants to play as a guest or just wants to nd out more about the society please contact Captain Barry Martin Tel:968138533 or email: barrymartin.spain@gmail.com
Water, water everywhere.
Page 99
Please limit all reports to 300 words. We reserve the right to amend all articles for publication. CLASSIFIEDS ARE AVAILABLE FREE FOR ITEMS UP TO THE VALUE OF 500 OR FOR WANTED/LOST ITEMS, FOR NON-COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISES ONLY. CARS AND BOATS ARE NOT INCLUDED FOR FREE. Max 20 words. Max 3 classieds How to Place a Classied Ad Please go to www.costacalidachronicle. com and click on classied, or email costacalidachronicle@gmail.com or phone 968 970 680 between 10-2pm
We will include inserts and yers provided by you at a cost of 10 cents per yer, max size A5. All adverts must be paid for before 15th of the month prior to publication. Please make cheques payable to Costa Calda Chronicle S.L. (Minimum amount for cheques is 50). The closing date for adverts is the 15th of the month prior to publication. If you would like to meet someone to discuss your advert then please contact Teresa on 619 199 407 to arrange an appointment, or visit Teresa in the mornings in CHM / Costa Clida Chronicle Ofce (inside Nicky G Translation Services), Camposol Sector B.
If you wish to design your own advert, please send through a hard copy and a copy on disk (please label the disk with your name and telephone number), if possible. Please use Microsoft Word or save advert as JPEG le (300 dpi). Please do NOT send in adverts in Powerpoint as they are not good enough quality for printing. DUE TO PROBLEMS OPENING FILES ON FLOPPY DISK, WE WOULD ASK THAT ALL ADVERTS ARE EITHER EMAILED OR SENT IN ON CDS. WE ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ADVERTS THAT HAVE TO BE SCANNED IN.
March 2012 Quiz Answers 1. Who claims you put your computer in professional hands? BEEP. 2. Why would you email: peaky55@ gmail.com? For all your carpentry needs 3Who specialize exclusively in construction of swimming pools? Jorges Pools 4. Where can you spend your lunch-
times or evenings in their beautifully restored dining rooms, overlooking their poolside terrace and gardens? Amapala Restaurante. 5. Who offering three ways to make more of your money? Lloyds Bank 6. What was special about February 3rd ? UNICEF Day 7. Who was talking about a perfect egg? Ma Millbank
8.
What do 1908, 1948 and 2012 have in common? Olympic Games in London 9. Where would you nd the nests of the Processionary Caterpillars? In pine trees 10. Who wrote Travels of an Everyday Man? David Ferguson Elliott
DISCLAIMER Whilst the CCC are happy to accept monthly reports from the various organizations in the area, the articles printed are not necessarily the opinions of the editor or publisher and the contents should be viewed as a guideline only. Professional advice should be sought to cover any information printed therein. Advertisements and reports are not formally endorsed by the CCC. We cannot accept responsibility for advertisers works, service or goods. The publishers endeavour to ensure the contents are correct, but cannot accept responsibility for the effects of errors or omissions.
Page 101
All our advertisers have current copies of Costa Clida Chronicle, and other outlets are planned. If you have any problems obtaining a copy, please call Patti on 646 005 017.
If you would like to buy a subscription for the Costa Clida Chronicle to guarantee your monthly copy of the magazine, please ll in the form below and hand it in to the Costa Clida Chronicle ofce on Camposol or Cosas y Cosas in Cehegin, or send it to Costa Clida Chronicle SL, 28 Calle Jara, Centro Commercial Sector B, Camposol, 30875, Murcia, or go to the website www.costacalidachronicle.com Name: ............................................................ Address: ............................................................ ............................................................ ............................................................ Email: Telephone: ............................................................ ............................................................ 36 18 POA 1 Cosas y Cosas, Cehegin
Price for 6 months to UK: Price for 6 months in Spain: Other countries: Reserved copies (per month) In Costa Clida Ofce, Camposol or
Method of Payment Paypal (3 extra) - costacalidachronicle@yahoo.es Bank Transfer: 3058 0206 91 2720017764
Page 103 Page 103
Accommodation: Hotel La Mariposa Accountants: Asesoria Alonso Silvente Airport Parking: Coastline Auto(Alicante) Seguro Parking Arts and Crafts 4 The Artist
Tonys Building Services - 968 631 008
- 647 119 952
- 968 592 032 - 968 332 058
- 966 799 326 - 622 062 115
Building Services: Coloured Concrete Impressions - 691 Kevins Flys Screens - 650 Kevins Aluminium Services- 616 P&P Services - 659 Sallu Plastics (Salglaze) - 968 Woodworks Direct - 649 VIP Services - 650 Butchers: Big Breakfast Butchers Carpentry: Philip Carpenter / Joiner Car Hire: Bolnuevo Cars F&C Rent a Car Tuxedo Limousines Cars & Transport: P&P Services Specialist Vehicles SL
Funeral Plans: ASSSA The Funeral Director Furniture: DFS Furniture Plus Time for a Change Garden Centres Jardilar 2003 The Tree Surgeon
- 968 153 396 650 631 719
083 662 984 732 978 540 893
330 579 652 962 836 016 607
- 968 334 194 - 968 482 456 - 968 136 501
- 669 565 402 - 650 911 755
- 606 889 559
- 968 170 553
Banking & Finance Kennedy Financial Services - 678 035 992 Lloyds Bank International - 902 024 365 Bars, Cafs & Restaurants: Alley Palais - 968 Amapola Restaurante - 660 Cafeteria Plaza - 968 Castillo De Pinar - 968 Cats Bar - 666 Chez Zoe - 676 Don Ricardos - 968 Hacienda del Alamo Golf - 968 Hotel La Mariposa - 968 Quality Indian - 968 Le Gourmet - 968 Leonardos - 628 Lizs Cafe - 696 Restaurant Marina - 619 The New Royal - 968 Trevi Bar & Restaurant - 669 Tropikana Bar/Caf - 645 Builders: Amigos CM Constructions Fuente Building Services JD Construction
- 680 443 219
Hairdressing: The Beauty Palace -968 971 828 The Salon Melissa & Tanya - 691 916 717 The Salon 2 - 686 354 232 Health & Beauty: Anti-Ageing Clinic Calida Care Agency Drew Ryder Therapist Freedom Mobility Happy Feet Foot Spa Mark Phoenix Medical Link Rosies Toesies Sacred Hearts The Beauty Palace The Fuschia Beauty Clinic The Salon
978 328 705 163 188 691 155 070 631 199 154 682 724 500 595 026 657
869 092 406 138 353 324 887 066 008 198 315 303 123 555 864 544 094
- 968 150 979 - 968 199 156 - 618 315 933
- 659 732 962 - 968 146 158
Chimney Sweeps: Home from Home Chimney Sweep - 660 478 881 Tony Chimney Sweep - 646 438 694 Chiropodists: Chiropody - Philip Dawe Cleaning Services: Limpieza Rosa Clothes Shops: Legs & Co.
691 968 660 638 661 654 968 639 650 968
916 150 326 893 002 202 212 171 796 971
717 658 194 357 648 996 050 835 579 828
- 630 439 480 - 691 916 717
- 968 150 244 Heating and Aircon: Camposol Heating & Maintenance - 968 199 184 Calida Gas & Oil - 659 761 771 Louis Harris - 619 712 821 Home Furnishings: Curtain Call - 616 240 171 Yorkshire Linen (Puerto) - 968 595 946 Yorkshire Linen San Javier - 968 193 912 Insurance: ASSSA Ibex Insurance Liberty Seguros Linea Directa MSC Insure Nash Warren Internet Cafs Alley Palais Camposol Computers
- 619 199 407
- 660 792 513
619 659 696 630
025 159 744 269
160 948 982 994
Computer Accessories: Shop at Camposol Computers - 968 154 477 Computer Repairs & Sales: Camposol Computers - 968 Consulting IT Services - 691 Loco PC - 968 Shop at Camposol Computers - 968 Dentist: Dental Care Olivier Houdusse Education: Antonio Hernandez Creative Writing Lets Talk Spanish Electricians: Amigos CHM Meters Duro & Corn Louis Harris
199 191 993 219 971 893 154 477
968 968 902 902 968 968
153 595 100 123 429 156
396 945 070 975 129 583
- 968 199 111 - 968 153 645
- 968 978 869 - 968 199 191
- 680 753 819 - 649 647 467 - 630 939 626
Kennels and Catteries: Catatonic - 646 705 403 Colina Kennels - 639 012 342 El Carro Kennels - 620 582 654 Laundrettes: Rainbow Laundrette The Laundry Shop
619 646 668 619
025 965 581 712
160 082 224 821
- 634 309 603 - 670 847 305
Entertainment Management KR Entertainments - 699 203 136
Legal Services: Asesoria Alonso - 968 Nicky G Translation Services - 968 P&P Services - 659 Professional and Legal Solutions - 968 Silvente Accountant/lawyer - 968 Locksmiths: ADS Locksmith Mechanics: Colair Decklid Auto Services English Garage Services Eurotyre Ford Marcosta Ken Sherwood Mechanic Kwik Fix English Mechanic Lpez Milan Mobile Car Mechanic Neumticos El Cea Metalwork: Eriks Mobility Products: Freedom Mobility Outdoor Catering: Pig Out The Roving Diner Outdoor Living: D&G Garden Furniture Furniture Plus
592 032 199 245 732 962 595 826 332 058
Lords Removals and Storage - 608 061 872 Mar Menor Removals - 968 564 298 Retail Outlets: Bodega Martinez Camposol Kitchens Plus 1 Quicksave T J Electricals Tornado Dry Cleaners Vial Carpinterias Murcia Services: 4 Legs Dog Grooming B P Oil Compusurf Healthy H20 No More Mould RTC Window Cleaners Tornado Dry Cleaners Solar Power: Freesol Solar Directa Spas & Hottubs: Eurospas
- 600 255 250
968 968 968 868 968 968
199 184 199 181 595 864
126 235 860 121 992 816
626 626 968 968 968 679 968 968 666 968
796 678 743 424 424 646 972 429 161 422
149 840 350 605 636 859 006 216 129 015
608 626 968 968 672 634 968
712 091 970 437 795 372 595
599 885 666 270 574 855 992
- 659 232 507 - 659 315 130
- 636 050 008
- 650 722 905
- 638 893 357
- 644 569 693 - 699 223 112
- 968 334 773 - 968 482 456
Sport & leisure: Alley Palais - 968 Costa Clida Radio - 902 Dance Zone - 649 Horse riding META - 636 Hotel La Mariposa - 968 Murcia Dance - Zumba Classes - 655 Yogamayga - 968 Swimming Pool Cleaning & Maintenance: Alpha Pools - 968 Jorge Pools - 674 Khn Pool Service - 968 Watermaid - 646 Translation:
978 903 647 172 631
869 783 467 198 008
421 120 150 755
Painting and Decorating: Interior Elegance - 968 482 456 RJB Dcor Painting - 699 044 742 Trevor Smith - 968 163 298 Plumbers: Apache 24/7 Plumbing Services - 968 970 Camposol Heating & Maintenance - 968 199 Calida Gas & Oil - 659 761 Crispulo Spanish Plumber - 627 689 Printing & Design: Mister Print
971 168 138 705
824 000 638 088
614 184 771 902
Travel Agents: Viajes Dragontours
- 968 199 021
- 638 893 357
Property Maintenance: Trevor Smith - 968 163 298 Property Management: La Manga 4 U - 0044 7921 351298 Owners Away - 691 977 107 Paramount Resort Rentals - 968 970 614 Property Sales: Another World Properties - 968 592 ADS Property Service - 646 969 Best of Spanish - 635 434 Fuente Alamo Real Estate - 968 598 Old Farmhouses - 968 159 Removals: Advance Moves Daintons Go Direct
TV & Satellite: CTV Aerial & Satellite Systems - 600 ISS - 655 LocoSat - 968 T J Electricals - 868 Rainbow YPM Satellites - 628 Veterinary Clinics: Veterinary Clinic Maskota Emerg Clinica Veterinaria Puerto Emerg
218 480 971 181
046 543 893 121
234 045
679 455 651 173 264
- 968 597 929 - 619 378 473 - 968 153 931 - 608 466 553
- 968 654 667 - 653 529 243 - 634 347 914
Page 105
- 630 187 041 Nicky G Translation Services - 968 199 245 P&P Services - 659 732 962
FOR SALE
2 old wooden doors 240 x 65cm 50 Buyer collects. Caravaca de la Cruz Tel 687118450 Modern glass/light wood dining table & 6 chairs. Glass slight damage hence 150. IKEA futon base 20. Buyer collects Mosa Trajectum Golf Resort, Murcia Tel 687118450 ANIMALS Baby female goat. Born 17th Dec. Ready to go now. Lovely black & white markings. Mum & Dad can be seen. Very friendly. Tel 646005017
Fender Strat style guitar/amp/strap/lead etc unused 95. New classical guitar/gig bag/spare strings. 50. Indie 12 string electro acoustic guitar, small ding in back. Cost 399. 175. Camposol Tel 630366321 or harrytaylorfc@ yahoo.co.uk Body-Solid multi-gym American very sturdy & free weights 100. Inniti elliptical cross-trainer 25. Camposol Tel 968199227 Masa Pine Double Headboard, exc cond 20 ono. 11 MASA Oak Kitchen cupboard doors/hinged extractor fan door in exc cond. 25 each/200 for all. MASA Kitchen Door/attached Window Rejas 100 Tel 968199913 or 646444942 26 at screen Sony Bravia TV. LCD Digital. Grey Surround. VGC. 80. Camposol. Tel 968972339 or 699657617 Computer desk/computer base unit holder/keyboard shelf/black desk pad. Ikea exc cond. Buyer collects. 60. Totana Tel 634337359 Electric 4 wheeled Shoprider scooter/ charger. Gd working order 130. Could deliver to Mazarron/Camposol area. Tel 637871554 2 chandeliers, multifaceted glass segments, deep bowl shaped, drop from ceiling 42cm/45cm dia. at top/ pristine condition. Each cost 120 Only 50 each. Camposol Tel 649296658 DJ Audio system 1200watts used twice as new cost 1200 sell for 499 Tel 968170870 Garden swing with cushions/seats 3. 185. Various garden pots from 50. Mobile scooter/price to be agreed. Bolnuevo Tel 968150918 Hinari Body Zone foot massager still boxed/as new. 10. Hinari Facial Sauna still boxed/as new 10. Krem Coffee machine with permanent lter as new. 10. Camposol Tel 635885062
WANTED Industrial, heavy duty wood oor sander, to hire or buy. Tel Ken 646705403 Static caravan. Tel 634 317 310 GROUP INFORMATION
CLASSIFIED ARE AVAILABLE FREE FOR ITEMS UNDER 500 OR FOR WANTED/LOST ITEMS, FOR NONCOMMERCIAL ENTERPRISES ONLY AND EXCLUDING VEHICLES AND BOATS. Maximum 20 words and 3 classieds per customer. How to Place a Classied Advert Please go to www.costacalidachronicle. com and click on classied or email costacalidachronicle@gmail.com or call 968 970 680 between 10.2pm Mon-Fri.
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Costa Clida Chronicle

The Longest Established hed FREE Magazine in Murcia

Date: April 2012

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

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87 16 18 60 36 6 66 22 87 72 31 86 104/105 68 67 34/35 106 67 57 102 16 68 100 48 18 50/51 84 80

66-68 54/55 27-33 83-85 90-93

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

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In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

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Clodagh and Dick Handscombe www.gardeninginspain.com

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The younger faces of HELP

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email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com

w w c ta li achr ni le.c m www.costacalidachronicle.com www.costacalidachronicle.com c ron e c

www.costacalidachronicle.com www.costacalidachronicle.com ww cos a a dach onicle.com onic e

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email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com

email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com

Wash and style

Shall I cut it a bit?

No quiero muy corto solo un poco. I dont

Forthcoming Events The tickets for Queen Tribute Band on

El agua esta fria/caliente. cold/hot.

Tiene alguna revista/periodico? you have any magazine or newspaper?

What would you like

A cut and a shave

Not too short please. Cut a bit more on

Corte mas por los lados both sides please.

www.costacalida hronicle.com www.costacalidachronicle.com costacalid o c idac r om

email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com email: co ta alid mai costacalidachronicle@gmail.com il d r n cle@gmail.com a c

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email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com email: costacalidachronicle@gmail.com

In association with Costa Clida International Radio and www.angloINFO.com

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Chris and Roy love their new showroom

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