La Marina Advertiser May 2024

La Marina Advertiser is a FREE community magazine celebrating local culture, commerce and creativity.

Originally established in 2005 in Gran Alacant - the Gran Alacant Advertiser has helped hundreds of local businesses over the two decades it has been operating.

We are delighted to grow our community into La Marina Urb, La Marina Pueblo and San Fulgencio.

We are MORE than just an advertising magazine - bringing local news and local businesses to local people.

Hullo, and welcome to La Marina Advertiser. I'm Richard, the editor, and I'd like to thank you for reading and advertisers for, well, advertising!

This is a magazine that is driven by the La Marina community and we plan to be your 'go to' source for all that is happening in your local area – news, views, where to go and what to do!

So... if you represent a local group or community or business please get in contact and we'll get you into print!

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La Marina Advertiser brings you news and views on local issues in La Marina Urbanisation, La Marina Pueblo and San Fulgencio.

If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like us to discuss, please email on info@lamarinaadvertiser.com

It's

Local Affair!

with Samantha Hull San Fulgencio Councilor

In the first of a monthly column, La Marina Advertiser is pleased to welcome San Fulgencio councillor Samantha Hull who will be answering your questions regarding local issues. In this first column, Samantha introduces herself and her work.

Q: How long have you lived in La Marina and when did you become interested in local politics?

I came to live in Spain and La Marina 23 years ago with my then young family. After 2 years I started teaching Spanish and one of my students became a local councillor. He asked me to be one of his “asesoras” (consultants) and I accepted. As such, I spent four years learning and understanding local politics here in San Fulgencio (the local council area in which La Marina is based). After that time I became a councillor in my own right and spent four years learning what it is to be an opposition councillor and continued learning the system. Five years ago as a member of the PSOE I became a councillor in power and was responsible for many departments but overall became an unofficial councillor for the urbanisations.

Q: Of all the things you have done as a local councillor which are you proudest of?

That question has several answers. I had a big role in various community projects such as Men's Shed which is a community space where people of all nationalities can come together to socialise, work on projects, and support each other's well-being. It offers a

place for them to pursue hobbies, learn new skills, and combat isolation. It is something I personally believe to be invaluable to our community here in La Marina and the wider San Fulgencio area. During the four years in power we had to deal with the awful floods, the dreaded Brexit and the COVID pandemic. I was able to help bring the community together during the floods by making a base at the Hope Christian Fellowship Church. Here people donated everything from mattresses to food and even their houses to support the people in San Fulgencio village who had been affected. During COVID, through my role as Councillor for Social Services, I was able to help so many people cope with the terrible loss of loved ones and with trying to

make sense of the ever changing rules and limitations on their lives. I think that maybe this, with the rest of the amazing team, is probably the thing that I am proudest of not only as a councillor but probably in my life.

Q: What do you see as the duties of a local councillor and what is the relevancy of a local council to the lives of local people?

To me, the duties of a local councillor are to represent the people, make decisions on local issues, allocate resources and advocate for community needs. Local councils play a crucial role in the lives of local people by providing essential services such as waste management, planning and development, parks and recreation, education, and social services. They also make decisions that directly impact local infrastructure, amenities, and quality of life.

Q: What is your favourite thing about living in La Marina?

There are many things I love about Spain and in particular about La Marina. I love

the culture, the language, the traditions and I love how people of so many different countries live and work together. I am proud to tell anyone that La Marina is my home.

Q: What will you be doing in your monthly column for the La Marina Advertiser?

Over the coming months I will have a column here in this magazine where I will be trying to answer any questions you may have about the local area or about living in Spain in general. This column is not political and as such I will not be answering any political questions. I just hope that this provides a platform for you all to ask questions and voice your opinions about the local area and as such I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with you all.

Questions, suggestions or comments about what's happening in your local area? Send us an email at info@lamarinaadvertiser.com

BRIGITTE COMPLETES THE TRANSILICITANA 100KM RACE

Last month, Brigitte, who has a home in La Marina, completed The Transilicitana, an annual 100km race that has been running for 13 years. It is more than a competition, it is a passion, it is to go beyond what each person believes bearable, to take the body beyond its limits.

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO DO THIS RACE?

In 2020 my friends and I did the Benidorm ½ marathon, I mentioned that I had also completed the 100km walk in Berlin and my friend told me about this race. When I saw it advertised I registered.

WHAT WAS YOUR TIME?

I finished in 19 hours, 14 minutes and 50 seconds.

DID YOU HAVE REGULAR BREAKS?

The race was very well organised, there were many stops with drinks and snacks along the way. I stopped at each of them to drink and eat a little. I like to drink coffee, ISO and water.

THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF THE RACE?

The most challenging part was at night in the darkness and small trails in the mountains. I made sure I walked very slowly and stayed safe. There were also 55 steps to climb after the race to get over the finish line, which was not funny!

THERE WERE YELLOW WEATHER WARNINGS. HOW DID THAT AFFECT YOU?

The race was hard because of the wind. In the evening, it was so cold.

HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU FINISHED?

To complete the hardest 100k in Spain is a great feeling. The pain is only temporary but the sense of achievement will stay with me forever.

WILL YOU DO IT AGAIN?

I think once is enough. I am 64 years old. Too old for the surprises I encountered at night!

SPANISH TIPS WITH CHRISTIAN

Welcome to our first 'Spanish Tips' column... a monthly feature with useful and effective tips about speaking Spanish and Spanish culture.

MANNERS, MANNERS…

Hola. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Christian Molinos-Hennerley, and I’ve been a Spanish teacher/tutor/ translator for the last 16 years. Over this period I have noticed how many students use expressions such as “me gustaría” (I’d like) and “podría tomar” (could I have) when ordering food and drinks in bars and restaurants. And don’t get me wrong, this is fine, it’s the direct translation of the way we order food and drinks in Spain.

However, it seems that us Spaniards can be a bit abrupter than English speakers and we tend to go to an establishment and say, very directly, “quiero una cerveza” (I want a beer) or “tráeme un vino blanco” (get me a white wine). I know it sounds terribly abrupt and even rude, but don’t worry, all will be well if you finish it with a “por favor” (please). When you do that, whoever is serving you will understand that you are being polite and that you’ve had the consideration to address them politely; I can guarantee you that after ordering this way, your server will be pleased with you as a costumer and will value your effort at being polite. Furthermore, if you start this kind of sentence with a “buenos días/ tardes/noches” you will be even more polite and you will probably get served promptly and with a smile. It’s worth a try, don’t you think?

It's important to remember that direct translations don’t always work the way they are supposed to, there’s a lot more going on when interacting with other people in Spanish - it’s important to understand the culture (local and nationwide), the

Here at La Marina Languages we have been helping many students learning Spanish for the last 4 years. Check out our website and say “hola”.

Christian is based in La Marina and offers one-to-one Spanish lessons at all levels (on-line or face to face). He will also accompany you as a translator for visits to doctors, lawyers, notary – whatever you need!

Tel/Whatsapp: 623 279 074

Email: lamarinalanguages@gmail.com

Website: www.lamarinalanguages.com

nuances and the small details. Then you will automatically sound more Spanish and you will get a better response when interacting with Spanish people.

So now that you know, I strongly encourage you to got out, sit down in the beautiful May sun and order “una cerveza muy fría, por favor”.

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Stay tuned for next month's update on how the Spanish Tax Office is involved when a non-resident sells property!

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K9 CLUB

This is TRIGGER a 7 year old large dog. He is so affectionate, good on a lead and very obedient. He would make a great companion and is house trained as he has come from a loving home. Trigger has a passport and is fully vaccinated.

Can anyone please give Trigger another safe and loving family home. Contact us at the Shelter if you would like to come and meet him!

ARENA the beautiful girl that was found near El Pinet beach recently has been in our care with a temporary foster family but will be coming up to the shelter if we can not find a forever home. Arena is around 2 years old and did not have the best start in life so can be a little scared when you first meet her, so needs someone with the patience and confidence to help her learn to trust. She is good with the other dogs in her foster home and at the local dog park, she just wants lots of cuddles and attention. She is vet checked, spayed, fully vaccinated and chipped with a passport. If you would like any information or to meet her please contact us at the Shelter.

If you are interested in adoption or would like more info please contact us on:

Home Turf

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If there is one thing that our area can claim as unique in Europe it is the intensive cultivation of date palm trees. Palms of various types grow in other parts of Europe; one thinks of the famous palms of the glamorous French Riviera or even those of the more prosaic “English Riviera” of Torbay. However, only southern Alicante province can truly be said to have placed palms at the centre of local life and culture, with the queen of the palms being the city of Elche and its Palmeral

Palms have existed for around 80 million years and whilst some of the over 2,600 species have tree-like characteristics there is debate as to whether it is even strictly correct to call them trees; the only native Iberian palm, ‘palmito or dwarf palm’, is in fact more of a shrub in size and appearance. However, it is of course the majestic and distinctly arboreal date palms that are the signature plant of our region.

Humans have cultivated date palms since ancient times with the Mesopotamians of what is now Iraq being the earliest recorded

date palm farmers. Indeed, the cultivation of dates seems to have existed as long as settled human life. Palm dates fed the people in the cradle of human civilization and there are multiple references to palms and their products in both the Bible and Quran. When we look at date palms we are greeting a plant whose history has been intimately entwined with our own for the entirety of recorded human life.

So how did this beautiful and useful yet somewhat enigmatic plant come to flourish in our region and particularly in Elche? The date palm is native to the Middle East and North Africa and it is believed that the date palm was first brought to the Elche region by the Phoenicians. The Romans later brought water management to provide reliable irrigation by constructing a dam on the Rio Vinalopó and feeding the river waters into a system of irrigation channels. This greatly increased the agriculture of the area including the date palms. However, the foundations of the current date palm Palmeral of Elche were laid during the early years of muslim rule under the Caliphate of Cordoba. The muslim rulers greatly expanded the irrigation system and created an artificial oasis and palm forest in the otherwise naturally arid land around what is now Elche.

The characteristic grid pattern of the date palm plantations of Elche is a product of this period. The date palms were not solely or even primarily planted and cultivated for their fruit; in fact the date palms' most important function was to create stable environments within which other crops including corn and fruits could be cultivated.

EL PALMERAL

The muslim farmers and gardeners grew the date palms around the edges of their fields to create what we would nowadays call microclimates. The dense lines of palms would provide shade and moisture for the other more delicate crop plants grown within the fields they bordered. Large growths of plants also reduce land surface temperature and make both plant and human life easier in the height of the southern iberian summer; (something that our local council might learn from…).

The Palmeral of Elche is therefore not simply a date tree plantation; it quite literally is the bedrock upon which the history and prosperity of the city of Elche rests. The palms allowed cultivation and life to thrive in the city and its surrounding region. The combination of irrigation and cultivation within palm and wall enclosed fields and gardens has continued in various forms up to the present day with the later christian kings further developing the irrigation and cultivation of the city.

The special place that date palms have in the life of Elche is most famously reflected in the use of local white palm fronds at Easter: Palm Sunday is celebrated nowhere quite like Elche!

All of us are surely well acquainted with Elche and its palms, hardly giving any thought to it all as we rush through the city in busy daily life. However, we urge you to stop next time you are in the city and allow yourselves to appreciate just how special Elche and its

Palmeral are. Have a little wander around the city, visit the wonderful hotel Huerto del Cura and enjoy a drink surrounded by palms of incredible shapes and sizes or even follow the well signed 10km walk through the city’s main huertos and parks. The Elche Palmeral is a huge and wonderful artificial oasis created over the centuries by working with nature to build an entire ecosystem.

The Palmeral of Elche, with almost 300.000 thousand palms, is a UNESCO world heritage site but perhaps equally special it has this month had a BBC programme devoted to it by Monty Don - surely there can be no greater tribute to our wonderful, unique and magical palm forest…

+34 654 168 366 info@ caniresortcostablanca.com www. caniresortcostablanca.com

Poligono 1, NO 55, La Marina, 03194

CANIRESORT

Pet hotel for your beloved animals when you are away on holiday. We care for your pets as if they were our own. With specially designed spaces you can rest assured your pet will be enjoying a pleasant stay in a resort of their own.

EXPERTISE

Pet Hotel, Doggie Day Care, Cattery, Spa Center and 24hr Worldwide Pet Shipping. We warmly welcome pets with handicaps and special needs.

ADVERTISE

BUSINESS INTERVIEW

ABOUT CANIRESORT COSTA BLANCA

Caniresort Costa Blanca has been operating for 23 years and is currently the largest PET RESORT on the Costa Blanca with 13,000 square meters (sq.m.) of land offering a variety of wonderful services for your pets.

WHAT DO YOU SPECIALISE IN

PET HOTEL Overnight stays including heated kennels in the winter and air-conditioned kennels in the summer, with cosy beds, warm blankets and a lot of fun playtime. Dog guests can relax in the spacious 45sq.m. individual kennels and burn off their energy during the 3 or 4 play times throughout the day. We respect the client’s wishes and if they want their dogs to interact, then the team put a great deal of thought into choosing the right dogs, giving special attention to the age and temperament of each one. Smaller dogs can enjoy plenty of fun and games in their uniquely designed play garden with lots of places for them to run, hide and dig.

DOGGY DAY CARE Your dog will enjoy a full calendar of enriching activities, we offer 8 different doggy parks. We understand that every dog is different and we take our time to match individuals to the best group based on their size and play style. Open Monday to Friday from 9.30am until 5.30pm

CATTERY GARDEN Cat residents love the 300sq.m. specially designed to allow them to socialise with other cats. There is plenty of space to explore and many strategically placed platforms and trees for them to climb and scratch as well as toys, comfortable beds and boxes that they can curl up in. This is much better for the wellbeing of the cats who at other kennels are often kept in their own enclosures for the duration of their stay. They will be so busy exploring their new surroundings that they will hardly miss their owners.

SPA CENTRE The staff at the hotel also provide spa services, so if you have a busy day planned then why not book your pet in for a wellness bath or day care. There are relaxing baths including massage for the pets and a full grooming service, for all types of animals.

info@lamarinaadvertiser.com

If you are a business owner and would like to be interviewed, contact us on: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

PET CLINIC Owners can relax knowing that the connected Pet Clinic is open 24/7 and as well as offering emergency care, the Vets offer vaccinations and specialist treatments.

WORLDWIDE PET SHIPPING

If you are planning on relocating and want to ensure that your pet is transported safely and securely then Caniresort also provides a Professional Worldwide Pet Shipping service. They are experts in this field and were the first Pet Transportation Company registered in Spain.

If you do not have time to drop off or collect your pet we can send one of our VIP Transports to do this for you.

Have you always wanted to work with ANIMALS

Yes. We always had pets in our family growing up. They were part of the family. We never had a Christmas where our pets did not get a present too.

When I finished school I studied Chiromassage, but I knew always that my dream was to work with animals. My studies in Chiromassage helps me today to enjoy bathing the animals and giving them relaxing massages. The most beautiful feeling is to see a pet relaxed in my hands. I have done a lot of training around pets and their wellbeing so I can give them the best care and attention possible.

BEST thing about your job

For me there is no better job in the world. Being in nature with animals, caring for them, it is just amazing. Pets have their own unique personalities and it is a joy working with them.

Any FUNNY stories

Just last week, I had a family who were at the airport ready to check in when they realised they had forgotten to bring their pet to the pet hotel. I went to collect their dog from the airport as they were running out of time.

Another client arrived with special food for his dogs stay at the hotel. He asked for help unloading his dogs from his car. When we went to the car he realised he had left his dogs and his wife at home!

MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR JOB

Our motto at Caniresort is “no client or pet is too difficult for us”. We specialise in looking after pets with special needs and handicaps. No matter what kind of special attention your pet needs, the team will gladly be there for them. Whether they need regular medication during the day/ night, are on a specific diet, are deaf or blind, or require additional therapies, we will look after them.

I think the most challenging thing is leaving the pets to go home. We treat them like our family so when we leave we really miss them. We sometimes have pets that stay with us for up to 2 months. We get so attached to them that it is not uncommon for us to be crying when they go home.

ANY TOP TIPS FOR ANIMAL OWNERS

Yes absolutely! Love your pet as much as you love yourself, and treat them with the same respect you get from them.

Be relaxed when you bring your pet to the hotel. Your pet can pick up on any stress or tension so if you are relaxed this makes it a better experience for your pet. Think of your pet’s stay with us as their own holiday.

Caniresort Costa Blanca discovers a world of happiness for your pet. We´ve packed all our expertise in to designing a sanctuary that is dedicated to unleashing happiness and enriching the lives of pets and their families. I am slightly biased, but I think there is no better place.

Home of

LA MARINA BOWLS CLUB

NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME! Tuition will be given if required. RING BARRY ON 641 873 985

Pop in on one of our 'ROLL UP' days - every Tuesday & Thursday

La Marina Bowls Club is part of the La Marina sports complex situated by the satellite roundabout,  Calle Berna, Urb La Marina, San Fulgencio 03177, Alicante. which is owned by Luisa Scannaliato and her family.

The Bowls club was founded by Ron & Maureen Barker and Alan King in 1989.

The Bowls Club is looking for new members of all standards from beginners to the most experienced of bowlers. We currently have around 55 members.

Our membership runs from 1st September each year, though new members can join at any time. Currently, membership costs €210 per annum, 6 months membership is available for €110 or 3 months €60. There is also a €10 fee payable for federation membership and €20 club membership, this is compulsory for those bowlers who wish to take part in the inter-club competitions.

If you wish to come along to have a go, there is a €6 non-members fee which is paid to the owners of the club, we have a number of woods (Bowls) for you to use, all we ask is that you have flat shoes.

The club holds a Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday morning roll-up at 10.00am for 10.30am start, these last around 3 hours. We normally stop for a drink and a chat break at around 11.45am Bowlers of all standards can come along and participate.

There is free tuition available for prospective new bowlers, including the use of equipment. The club also participates in various other Federated competitions. We play in various Summer and Winter League on various days of the week. You do not need to play in any of these leagues if you do not wish to.

We also hold quiz nights once a month and members go out together for meals.

All bowls clubs in Spain come under the Levante Lawn Bowls (LLB) organisation.

Feel free to pop along if you would like to give it a try or if you have any questions. New members are always welcome at The Bowling Club and we can give tuition if required. For more information call Barry on 641 873 985.

Quiz time Quiz time

1. Which group of letters is the odd one out? (ABCDEGPTV), (IY), (FOQL), (AJK)

2. What is the name of the point on earth that is furthest away from land?

3. Add two letters to complete this 10 letter word: _ L _ _ V _ L _ _ _

4. Name the Coffee Shop in the sitcom Friends

5. How many human players are there on each team in a Polo Match?

6. From what grain is the Japanese drink Sake made?

7. Who wrote Chitty Chitty Bang Bang?

8. When was the Movie Titanic released?

9. From which US state do the band The Killers originate?

10. Which Tennis Grand Slam is played on a clay surface?

To solve the puzzle each 3 x 3 box, each row and each column must contain all the numbers 1 to 9. For hints and information visit www.sudoku.org.uk

1997, 9. Las Vegas, 10. French Open (Roland Garros)

Answers: 1. FOQL. The other three groups all contain rhyming letters, 2. Point Nemo in the Southern Ocean, 3. SE = SLEEVELESS, 4. Central Perk, 5. Four, 6. Rice, 7. Ian Fleming, 8.