Gran Alacant Advertiser April 2022

here comes the sun

granalacantproperties.com � 966 699 441 659 292 654 or 652 899 932 � located on ground-floor Carabassi Center

Gran Alacant Advertiser continues to bring you all the local NEWS including information from the local Town Hall representative. Working for the local community since May 2005.

If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like us to discuss, please email on granalacantadvertiser@hotmail.com LATEST NEWS FROM THE GA COUNCILLOR OSCAR VALENZUELA

HEALTH SERVICES The Mayor of Santa Pola, Health Officials and Councillors of Gran Alacant met with Elche hospital management to discuss health care plans for Gran Alacant.

PROGRESS IN PHOTOS NEW MOBILE PHONE ANTENNA Work has started on the installation on the new mobile phone antenna in upper Gran Alacant. The improved service will benefit 8,000 people living in the area.

Cllr Óscar Valenzuela said, “We are satisfied with the outcome of the meeting. The expansion of the health service is necessary for the growing numbers in Gran Alacant”.

The Mayor of Santa Pola, Loreto Serrano, stressed, “The expansion of the office is only one area of work. We will also continue working towards the construction of a new health centre that covers the care needs for Gran Alacant. The new health centre is a priority. The first step is to expand the office and then we will start work on the new centre”.

The Department of Health recognises the need to increase personnel at the Santa Pola health centre and the Gran Alacant clinic due to the large number of people who come to the town, particularly in the summer months. In addition, they consider that it is essential that the health centre does not reduce its patient care hours in summer.

PINE PROCESSIONARY Vital Pine Processionary treatments are taking place day and night to help save the pine trees in Gran Alacant and help protect the local people and their pets.

The Pine Processionary Caterpillar is harmful to young children and sometimes fatal to dogs and cats. They leave their nests high up in the Mediterranean pine trees in early spring and head to the ground to pupate.

The name ‘processionary’ comes from the

NEW TRAFFIC LIGHTS Traffic lights being erected on Avinguda del Mediterrani near Puerto Marino.

OTHER NEWS fact they create a ‘conga’ style chain. The caterpillars are not only extremely toxic, and therefore dangerous to anyone who come into contact with them, they also are responsible for the destruction of the pine trees they inhabit.

ALDI After months of laying the foundations, the new Aldi is taking shape at the former Gabe Market site.

WEATHER PHENOMENON Spain tops the leader board for the country with the worst air quality during March after an orange haze covers the sky, according to Climatological Observatory of the University of Alicante.

The strange weather phenomenon, which has coloured the Spanish skies a ghostly yellow/red/orange hue, is caused by the presence of dust, sand and even ash and clay particles being suspended in the air was brought over by the wind by Storm Ceilia from Africa.

Health experts advised people to avoid physical activities and intense sports both indoors and outdoors, especially for people suffering from respiratory problems.

People were also advised to wear a protective facemask whilst outside.

If you would like to supply news or info for our next edition, or have a question for Gran Alacant Councillor Oscar Pedro Valenzuela, please email: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

ST.DAVID’S DAY IN AID OF THE POPPY APPEAL RAISED 165€

The branch celebrated St David’s Day and it proved a fantastic success with over a hundred people attending, the singing was led by “Come and Light My Choir” lead by Andrea.

The choir who did a fantastic job singing a number of Welsh songs with audience joining in heartily. The tables were dressed beautifully with daffodils by our Vice Chairman Laura and Sue sold and twisted arms to raise funds for the Poppy Appeal 165 Euros. A wonderful day was had by all and it looks like this will be our first annual St David’s Celebration.

AFTERNOON TEA PARTY AT DUNBARS RAISED 216€ BY GALS PALS

Fantastic afternoon Dunbar's Afternoon Tea Party raised 216 Euros. All of the donations were delivered to Jolly Rogers ready for the Ukrainian families arriving in Gran Alacant soon. €216 was raised by the raffle which will be used to buy food and products for our local animal charity Associacion Protectora De Animales de Santa Pola and also more food or items for the Ukrainian refugees when we find out what they need.

If any ladies would like to join Gals Pals call Jackie on 635 240 948

MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB Sponsored by The Pub, Gran Alacant Insurances, Dialprix, The Belfry & Sunrise Builders CLUB COMPETITIONS

The ladies and mens singles finals was well supported. Joan Harding v Lynne Armitage and Keith Young v David Eades. After two good matches Joan won the ladies and David won the mens well done to both. After the matches the presentation was held in the Rincon followed by a buffet and a few wines.

WINNERS

Ladies Singles: Joan Harding.

Mens Singles: David Eades.

Ladies Pairs: Sheila Roberts and Joan Harding.

Mens Pairs: Keith Young and Neil Crwford.

Ladies Trips: Sheila Roberts, Sue Bounds and Joan Harding.

Mens Trips: Ronnie Cairns, Keith Young and Barry Watson.

Mixed Trips: Sheila Roberts, Chris Harding and Joan Harding.

Mixed Pairs; Rita Towle and Phil Goble.

Drawn Mixed pairs; Sheila Roberts and Graham Smythe.

RUNNERS UP

Ladies Singles: Lynne Armitage.

Mens Singles: Keith Young.

Ladies Pairs: Julia Hamilton and Lynda Saunders.

Mens Pairs: Colin Bedford and Paul Dodd.

Ladies Trips: Lynne Armitage, Rita Towle and Gina Hindle.

Mens Trips: Mick Soars, Ian Hamilton and Neil Crawford.

Mixed Trips: Lynne Armitage, Howie Williams and Keith Young.

Mixed Pairs: Sheila Roberts and Graham Smythe.

Drawn Mixed Pairs: Tanya Oliver and Keith Young.

CHICKEN RUN

Twenty two members took part in February's chicken run. We played three rinks of trips and one rink of pairs. The chickens were won by Jan Soars and Chris Merry thank you to Jack and Tanya who donated the chickens. Lynne Armitage and Ian Hamilton won the eggs, as Ian and Julia donate the eggs they were sold to the highest bidder.

The football card was won by Howie with Bolton.

For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.com or email us at info@montemarbowls.com We are also on Facebook

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ALZHEIMER’S

Spain is one of the countries with the highest life expectancy, which rounds the 81 years old. However, living longer is not always good news, if it is not accompanied by a good quality of life.

Currently, the quality of life as we age is better than it was a few years ago.

Nonetheless, diseases like Alzheimer's threaten our health and wellness at this stage of life. But can Alzheimer's be prevented?

Today it is known that there are certain causes like hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus or obesity that can determine a

greater risk of suffering from this type of cardiovascular disease. The same happens with Alzheimer's.

NON MODIFIABLE FACTORS

Alzheimer's disease is usually diagnosed after the age of 65. Thus, age, along with certain genetic aspects are among the risk factors that influence the development of the disease, although they do not determine it. These risk factors are not modifiable.

As stated before, genetics is another non-modifiable risk factor of Alzheimer's.

However, Alzheimer's is only genetically determined in 1% of cases.

THIS MONTH’S PROMOTIONS GENERAL CHECK 85€

Consultation , Blood Test, ECG (normally 130€)

FAMILY PLAN CARD 160€ 2X1

DENTAL POLISH & CHECK UP 2X1

160€ annual fee - two members for the price of one and you will receive: * GP consultation 20€ (normally 60€) * One FREE dental polish & check up per year * Monthly offers and promotions

Alzheimer's begins by causing neuropathological changes in the brain without the person presenting symptoms, a phase that could last up to 20 years. Then comes mild cognitive impairment, and later on, dementia.

Recent studies conclude that one out of three cases of Alzheimer's could be prevented through healthy lifestyles.

LED WHITENING 150€

PCR COVID ANTIGEN

89€

40€

MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS

They are all those factors that will increase the cardiovascular risk: obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking.

Aspects related to lifestyle (nutrition; physical, cognitive and social activity; and sleep habits). The practice of physical exercise, apart from having an impact on the heart, also has also an impact on neural health. Exercise helps reduce vascular brain damage.

YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIORITY

As to food, the Mediterranean diet has proven to have a positive effect because it fights oxidative stress, while excessive alcohol consumption is the enemy of the brain.

The importance of restful sleep. While we sleep, mechanisms necessary to get rid of toxic products that reach the brain activate, such as the amyloid beta protein, which is altered in Alzheimer's disease.

OUR SPECIALITIES:

Regarding cognitive activity, keeping the mind active can help in delaying the onset of Alzheimer's symptoms that come with pathological brain changes. It is essential to do new things, take on new challenges (such as learning a language), reading, or acquiring a new skill (such as playing an instrument). You don't have to limit yourself to simply repeat what we already know how to do.

• • • • • •

GENERAL MEDICINE DENTAL CLINIC PEDIATRICS CARDIOLOGY GYNECOLOGY GENERAL SURGERY

It is advisable not to put aside social activities since socialization is a very useful way of keeping the mind active, enriching our knowledge and learning from other perspectives, but, fundamentally, avoiding the isolation and its consequent implications for mental health.

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PSYCHOLOGY PHYSIOTHERAPY BLOOD TEST ULTRASOUND HOME ASSISTANCE 24H AESTHETIC MEDICINE

PLAZA MAYOR

Book of the month

by Beth I found this book emotional and uplifting.

Very relevant to the present time.

My Recommended Book of the Month

Heather Morris Three Sisters

Beth worked as a Qualified Librarian in Aberdeen for 20 years.

She loves reading and delights in finding exciting new authors as well as reverting back to favourite writers of all genres.

Beth has lived in Gran Alacant for the last 15 years.

When they are little girls Cibi , Magda and Livia make a promise to their father – that they will stay together, no matter what.

Years later Livia and Cibi are sent to Auschwitz, fighting to survive through unimaginable cruelty and hardship.

Magda stays with her mother and grandfather hiding from the Nazis. She escapes for a time but eventually is caught and sent to the death camp. In Auschwitz the 3 sisters are reunited – their new promise – to survive (based on the incredible true story of the Meller sisters).

A gripping, heartbreaking yet uplifting story of resilience , courage and love.

Even when they return to Slovakia they are persecuted and decide to travel to Israel where their new lives begin.

NEXT BOOK CLUB MEETING

Wednesday 27 April 2pm, Skipper Bar MASA Square

We meet up once a month, discuss the books we are reading now and suggest new ones. Anyone interested in joining us or looking for more information please contact Beth on Whatsapp +44 7853 363060

CWW Electrical Services Qualified electrician All electrical work undertaken Tel: 617 872 405 *** Contact Clive or Wendy

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TERRY TALKS

Alcohol free opinion & Chat terry@montelinvestments.co.uk

ANYONE GOT A TIME MACHINE? Just awaiting plague and pestilence for the full set. Unbelievable what we have seen. Russia invading Ukraine. I never saw that happening. I thought Putin would call the west’s bluff by withdrawing his troops and accusing the west of scaremongering.

Unfortunately not.

Our hearts go out to the Ukrainians now suffering because of an ex KGB officers desire to re-create the USSR. Maybe something positive can come from this? Putin and his cronies are a last of a breed. That breed being ex Soviets. Ex members of a dead system. Putin’s KGB credentials are clear to see. But there is a generation of people in Russia who were not even born and have no memory of the Soviet Union, who we now see protesting in St Petersburg and other cities. They I am sure have no interest in war or recreating the past.

Like Ukraine I am sure they long for a more modern liberal looking nation. The younger people bought down the authoritarian regime in Ukraine in 2014, maybe the Russian people can do the same. Time will tell.

Lets all pull together and get through this crisis, as I am sure we will do. We have Ukrainians and Russians here in Gran Alacant. Extend the hand of friendship to them all.

Anyway here in the bubble known as Gran Alacant life moves on. Winter having its final word before Spring and Summer

arrives. The beautiful blossom from which the Costa Blanca gets its name. I can feel the days getting warmer, and the beer getting colder.

Taking a walk to the beach (yup I actually did it, despite my reputation of driving everywhere) was a pleasure. Except still too much Dog s**t. I don’t understand owners who are too lazy and selfish to clean up after them. After all they are the primary users of such walkways. I am glad to see fines of up to 750 Euros are being introduced and compulsory bags for the mess.

Another thing. Who designed the public waste baskets? They look like R2D2 from Star wars. They are perforated which may look attractive, but as soon as the wind blows, they empty their contents everywhere. Not greatly thought out. We love our GA and don’t want it ruined by some selfish dog walkers or bad design.

Lets not walk past the rubbish. Maybe next time you go for a walk take a black bin bag and collect a few bits of rubbish and deposit them in the large bins. Can you imagine if only 100 walkers did this once a week collecting 10 items, that 52,000 items of rubbish collected in a year.

Anyway hope your St Patrick’s hangovers didn’t last too long. See you all on the sunny side Disagree with anything?

What an opinion you have discussed?

Email me on : terry@montelinvestments.co.uk

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The Lowedownwith Lynne INTERVIEW with Katrin Schulz

Hi, my name is Lynne and I have been lucky to call Gran Alacant home for the last 5 years. People fascinate me and I love to hear about their adventures and life stories. Over the next few months, I will be sharing some interview with GA’s very own Superstars!

KATRIN, WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO GA? “I met my husband José Luis in Marjorca when I was living and working there 18 years ago. He is from Elche and I am from Germany. We came to live in Gran Alacant 16 years ago and our 13-year-old son Alejandro was born here.”

By day, Katrin has a busy job working in a bank. In her spare time, Katrin is a Yin, Vinyasa Flow and Yoga Nidra Teacher.

giving back. I love the healing power of movement through the practise of yoga.”

Katrin studied Tourism for 3 years in her homeland Germany and speaks German, Spanish, English and French. Travelling is one of her passions and she considers herself a modern day back packer. Listing Bali, Thailand, Laos and Singapore as a few of her favourite places she has visited.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT

I have been fortunate enough to attend her classes and educational workshops. I love her style of teaching and calming energy she brings to every session.

WHAT DOES TEACHING YOGA MEAN TO YOU? “I tragically lost my younger sister Petra in a car accident 11 years ago. I was heartbroken. My sister’s friend suggested I try Yoga. It was the lowest point in my life and Yoga really helped me get through that painful time. I now teach as a way of

TRAVELLING? “I love getting to know new people and experiencing different cultures. I tend to avoid the touristy places and prefer to discover the real essence of a place.

Organizing trips is my passion. I want to share this passion of exploring and seeing the world with others.”

Katrin hopes to inspire others wishing to travel, by organising trips away for groups of like-minded explorers.

WHAT EXCITING PLANS DO YOU HAVE COMING UP? “We bought a Finca near the village of La Romana last July, which we are in the

process of renovating. We have named the Finca ‘La Margarita de Ganesha’. ‘La Margarita’ after my mum Margret who I am extremely close to, and Ganesha the elephant-headed Hindu god of new beginnings.”

Katrin hopes to run small Yoga events at the end of this year, and bigger Retreat events next year.

WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF? “Take the path you want to take, not the path you think others expect of you.”

WHAT ARE YOU MOST GRATEFUL FOR? “My mum, my son, my family.”

I have met many lovely people since moving to GA, but Katrin truly is one of the nicest.

She has a kind heart with good intentions and the wonderful ability to make you feel great about yourself.

Thank you Katrin for sharing your beautiful energy and your story with us.

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Home Turf Follow us on Instagram: juanruano.oficial & archiemaddan

Turballos: A place apart The village of Turballos is a little over 50 minutes drive inland from Gran Alacant but is a step into a different world. Technically the small collection of houses and a church that make up the settlement are part of

the everyday life of this village community as it tended its fields and orchards in past years and centuries; it is a place strongly embedded in its landscape.

Like many Spanish villages Turballos now has a quiet almost deserted atmosphere despite its very well kept buildings and neat little streets.

Turballos however holds a secret. It is home to a special community who have lived there since the 1970s. Established by a catholic priest called Pare Vincent (Father Vincent) this community lives communally according to principles derived from both christianity and the teachings of Mahatma Ghandi. The life of the community is committed to pacifism and self sufficiency and live in accordance with the principles of the circular economy. Other basic tenets

the Town of Muro de Alcoy in the Condado de Concentaina, in reality the village and its community has a recent history that places it apart from mainstream Spanish society. We visited Turballos having seen a photograph of its beautiful medieval church; what we discovered was a place and a story more fascinating than just the beautiful old church.

The village nestles into the hillside of the Alcoy mountains. It is a modest collection of houses centered around a charming little village square shaded by trees. The lovely old church with its romanesque style features faces onto the little square. The village is surrounded by fields and paths leading through green countryside. Some of these paths lead up the slopes of the hillside behind the village passing through the remains of cultivated terraces with fig and olive trees in abundance. Walking along these paths one has a strong sense of

of the community’s life are vegetarianism, ecological awareness and a particular opposition to nuclear energy technology.

Pare Vincent died in 2018 at the age of 90 however the community he founded continues to live in the village. Much of the restoration of the village and its land

is undoubtedly due to the presence of this modest group of hard working families brought together

by Father Vincent almost 50 years ago. The church and its adjoining buildings are in fact the property of the community and the focus of their communal life.

The presence of this group for almost fifty years in the little hillside village is now itself part of the long history of this ancient place.

The community is private and does not seek publicity but has made its distinctive mark on Turballos. One might go so far as to suggest that the principles upon which the community bases its life are themselves almost relics of a past age having been born out of the counterculture movements of the twentieth century. Although one can also see how much of what they espouse was perhaps ahead of its time and only now becoming more widely accepted.

The area around Turballos is beautiful and offers other interesting and rewarding things to see and experience.

There are other towns and villages in the surrounding valleys that are also well worth visits.

Of particular interest is the L’Albufera de Gaianes (The Albufera of Gayanes; “albufera” being the Valencian word for lagoon which is itself derived from the arabic term “al-buhayra” meaning small sea) a magnificent natural freshwater lagoon that attracts many species of birds and turtles.

We recommend a visit to Turballos for anyone wishing to escape the busy world for a few hours, especially at this present time.

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GA 171 GRAN ALACANT

GA 165 VISTA BAHIA

GA 39 DON PUEBLO

APARTMENT 85,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

GROUND FLOOR APART 190,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

TOWNHOUSE 240,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

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GA 46 ALTOMAR II

GA 5 ALTOMAR 1

GA 4 OLIVO DE ORO

TOP FLOOR 109,950€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

TOWNHOUSE 158,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

SEMIDETACHED HOUSE 760,000 Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

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GA 156 GRAN ALACANT

264-S OLIVO DE ORO

299-S RESTAURANT

TOWNHOUSE 145,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

TOWNHOUSE 350,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

DUNBARS 360,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

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Av.Escandinavia 72, Altomar II L.10 03130 Gran Alacant - Santa Pola

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GA 159 ALTOMAR I TOWNHOUSE 150,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

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GA 139 ISLA DE IZARO

GA 121 DON PUEBLO

DETACHED TOWNHOUSE 360,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

TOWNHOUSE 188,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

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GA 30 SANTA POLA

GA 167 URB.MEDITERRANEO

GA 2 MONTE FARO

DUPLEX 157,500€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

TOWNHOUSE 160,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

APARTMENT 204,750€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

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GA 7 VICTORIA PLAYA

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TRIPLEX 165,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

TOWNHOUSE 135,000€ Bedrooms: Bathrooms:

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Inmobiliariavictoria

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Celebrating St.Patrick’s Day ... in Gran Alacant

We take many photos “Out & About” in Gran Alacant but can only include a se

election in our magazine. You can find ALL photos on our FB, Instagram & Website

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PROJECT 4 ALL

by Jo Hollingworth

country delivering aid to besieged cities every day and getting them into the hands of the military and ordinary Ukrainians suffering in this devastating war.

And then the air raid sirens broke through the silence of the night. A slight flicker of fear passed briefly over a few of their faces and we were quickly ushered into a "safer" place inside their warehouse.

A deep Ukrainian voice barked for us to turn out all of the lights and Kalashnikov guy, a professional Ukrainian soldier with a face of steel and eyes that could write a thousand murder mysteries, herded us like sheep from the warehouse into the dark merge shelter that their office provided.

We had no choice but to hunker down for the night.

When we make a promise we keep it!!!

All of your donations have been taken into Ukraine and handed over directly into the hands of a Ukrainian aid agency.

We know this because we drove over the border to put it straight into their hands.

On Sunday night, our Romanian friends had arranged for us to meet members of the Ukrainian resistance in the "no man's land" between the Romanian EU / NATO border and the Ukrainian war zone border to offload our vans for them to distribute in the cities of Ukraine most in need.

When we arrived, a Ukrainian border guard told us that our contact had been in touch to say that their vans were stuck further down the border without enough fuel to get to us. How would we feel about driving about 60km across the border with a military and police escort to deliver direct as they desperately needed your donations.

Well, what could we say?

So, at 1am Sunday night / Monday morning our two vans, trailer and car flew at 150km per hour into a war torn country with Kalashnikov welding escorts, during the night time curfew and under martial law, towards a collection and distribution point ran by soldiers and territorial guards. We arrived to find several men waiting to help us unload. They explained that they were sending trucks and buses up and down the

In this undisclosed location, the true war time spirit reminiscent of the blitz raised its beautiful head. Coffee, tea, food and warmth were provided and we settled on the sofas to wait for the danger to pass To break the ice, we asked for a glass of Jack Daniels and, playing the perfect hosts, one of the soldiers produced a magnum of champagne, offering to open it to celebrate our arrival.

The men that surrounded us were young, proud and determined. They took pride in telling us about their desire to fight and crush the invading force destroying their country. They told us of their sisters, mother's and friends who refused to leave and who stood side by side with their male comrades taking up arms and protecting the vulnerable.

Their fears, suspicions and incredulity at our arrival turned to warmth and smiles and giggles as we shared our story and journey with them and they shared their brave stories with us.

A tear formed silently in the eye of one of the soldiers as he learnt of how the supporters of Project 4 All, Friends of Project 4 All, had united to show their solidarity and support. They were agog to learn that we had brought 2 vans of donations from Spain, we had sponsored a van of donations from UK, travelling thousands of miles, to help in the only way we could.

Their warehouse had been empty when we arrived. As soon as donations arrive they are distributed across the country within 24 hours. They told us that they had set up their own Non-Profit organisation within Ukraine to deal with donations as a huge chunk of aid arriving via the big NGOs and smaller charities is being siphoned off and sold on the black market before it even reaches the border. We are so pleased to have made these contacts so that in future we can work directly with these men and ensure that 100% of any future donations we receive get to the people on the ground.

When the all clear sounded, we lept up and continued to unload the vans and all the donations, separating into pallets the food, clothes, toiletries etc for easier distribution.

Fear of a future raid forced us to leave our new found friends and head back to Romania.

During the drive back, the air ride sirens began to blare again and our escort increased the pace. Driving through this was terrifying. We saw what we had been told, the petrol stations were empty. People had to walk for miles to reach the safety of the European border.

The most devastatingly heartbreaking moment for us all was on the journey back to the safety of the EU as the curfew

ended at 6am. As we were escorted by our military and police convoy, the sun rose quietly over the horizon, the frozen earth and snow covered fields came into view as did the silhouettes of exhausted families who had travelled for days to seek refuge, warmth and care with only the clothes on their backs and the small suitcases they were able to carry.

At the border, the chilling sound of children and babies screaming and crying as they were coaxed from their fathers arms filled the air as Daddy has to stay to fight.

Families were being torn apart before our eyes, possibly forever, it sent shivers down our spines and brought lumps to our throats.

We can't stop now. We need more than ever to keep supporting this community, these people are exhausted when they arrive, they have no idea what the future may hold and I cannot begin to imagine how that feels.

This is just one night of part of the teams adventure, myself, Jonny Elraiz and James Coyne. We still have Jim, Mike and Konstantin and the amazing Jacqui Birch and Dani Bowler and we will keep you informed. Believe me there is a lot more to share and show you!!! www.facebook.com/cook.for.the.homeless/

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Celebrating Birthdays & Anniversaries in GA

Share your special moments with us & email info@granalacantadvertiser.com

Happy B irthday

Steve

day Happy Birth Innes

day Happy Birth rbie Lynne & Ba

Happy 70 Birth day Susan

WHAT’S THAT IN THE CLOT?

by Mark Etheridge

BLUE ROCK THRUSH One of the things which puts some people off from taking a deep interest in birds is the plethora of LBJ’s (Little Brown Jobs) which seem to fill the identification books.

Even experts are sometimes hard put to identify the various sparrows, warblers, larks and bunting species which cause some head-scratching when they are seen, and the differences between species can sometimes come down to the length of a feather in the wing, or the exact positioning of a vague eye stripe.

What you need is something which stands out from the crowd, and perhaps the most easily identifiable birds are the ones with blue in their plumage. You have of course the fabulous Roller, the sparkling Kingfisher, the Bluethroat (the blue-chested version of the Robin) and the paint factory explosion which is the Bee-eater. Once you know what they are, these birds are easily identifiable by most people.

But here’s a blue bird which you might not know, or even have heard of. It is a Blue Rock Thrush, a scarce but regular bird in our area. As the name suggests, it is usually found in rocky areas, such as the cliffs along the Santa Pola coast road, but also it has been seen occasionally in the Clot, on the steep rocky terraces along the main path from the main entrance to the Charco pool.

When seen in good light, you can see that it is an overall slaty-blue bird, but more often than not all you get is a dark-looking bird which you might dismiss as a Starling or Blackbird, but any such bird in a rocky area should be examined carefully to see if it is a Blue Rock Thrush. Only the male bird has the blue wash in its plumage, the female is a duller grey bird with a scaly appearance.

Although referred to as a thrush, it is more closely related to the smaller chats and flycatchers, with a diet of insects, seeds, berries and the occasional small reptiles.

They are resident in our area throughout the year.

It has a song similar to a Blackbird; not quite as rich and more repetitive. When encountered on a rocky slope, if it sees you it will tend to fly away upwards for a short distance, then perch out and observe you with a beady eye to see what you will do next.

You might think that because of its preferred habitat, this is a difficult bird to find, but they can occur in surprisingly easy areas. The attached photograph was taken by my good birding friend and expert photographer Bryan Thomas (yes, the same Bryan who appears regularly in Masa Square singing all your favourites!), and he didn’t have to go far to find it! It is apparently a regular visitor to his neighbour’s roof right in the middle of one of the Gran Alacant urbanisations.

My thanks go to Bryan for generously allowing the use of his photo, as I only have shots of the much duller female in my own archive!

You can find more photographs of birds and other animals from our area by visiting www.marketheridge.smugmug.com See you next month.

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SOCIALIZATION

With the new Spanish Animal Welfare Act, the traditional potentially dangerous breeds classification is going to disappear.

Most owners of this kind of dogs are looking forward to it. Vets have always thought classifying dogs according to their breed is unfair and useless.

Potential aggressiveness in domestic animals (we are not talking about “wild” ones in their environment) is not defined by its species or breed but for its education.

And when we say “education” we don’t mean training. We mean socialization.

Socialization is the process in which the animal learns the necessary skills to live accompanied by other alive beings, which can be individuals belonging to the same species, or members of different species, including human beings.

The socialization period depends on the species. In dogs, this period is quite long: 5-6 months or more. In case of cats it’s much shorter: about 12 weeks. If we consider the 4 first weeks kittens are absolutely dependent of their mother, socialization period in cats is really short.

During this period animals are supposed to learn from their parents what is safe and what is dangerous, and how do they have to interact with their own species and with other species, etc. So, those things which they have not experienced during this socialization period, will be considered as dangerous or doubtful. This is very useful for young animals: the lesson would be “don’t approach to unknown things”. In fact, humans do the same with their children: “don’t talk to unknown people”. Later, when the individual grows up, curiosity and experience will make it recognize friends and enemies, but, normally, in case of doubt, the safest option would be to run away. But, what if I can’t run away from something I consider it’s dangerous? One of the options would be to attack.

Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán 793 English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747 We think everybody have watched the following situation: a young adult cat that comes everyday to our garden to have some food. Even it knows us and gets close. We even have given it a name, and when we call it for its name, it comes to us. It’s a really nice cat, and even loves to rub our legs. But if we try to lift it from the floor it will run away or fight. It’s a really common situation in cats, but it also happens sometimes with dogs: my friend’s dog is very nice and loves to play with children, but if another dog approaches, it will attack. And the reason is not because it’s a dominant dog (let’s don’t believe all youtube dogs trainers say...).

It’s just because that dogs hasn’t had a proper socialization. One of the most common causes of aggression is fear. In case of species which are prey instead of predator, such as birds, Guinea pigs, etc, despite they can have fear or panic, they usually don’t attack.

With the new regulation, lots of dogs which are obliged to wear a muzzle will be able to get rid of it (most of them never really needed it), but there is a significant percentage of individuals which are shy, and when they panic, they may attack.

Normally everybody thinks their pet is absolutely nice and only wants to play, but if it panics for some reason (fireworks, motorbikes, a large dog) it may get aggressive.

We can try something at home (only in young and healthy animals!): let’s drop an object, for example an iron bucket near our dog when it’s not watching us. What would happen? Nothing (in case of a brave, self confident dog), run away (a dog not so self confident, but still acceptable), or barking or attacking the object.

A fearful dog may get aggressive. Making it get used to environmental diversity will help us and our pet.

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GA RUNNING GROUP

THE (CONTINUING) ADVENTURES OF THE GRAN ALACANT RUNNERS

During March, Claudia and Brigitte introduced the group to a German charity that was collecting funds for the children and refugees of Ukraine with the intention of raising Euro 100,000 and to date they have raised an astonishing Euro 200,000, admittedly not all of it from our group of runners. We have pledged to run, walk, cycle or swim as often and as far as we can until 10 April.

On March 5th Benidorm hosted their annual 21k and 10k road races starting and finishing at the town hall just below the Bull Ring. Of the 2000 runners 400 were British Expats. John and Geoff competed

the girl in 632 place came from, as there wasn’t a foot between John and Geoff.

The 21k race started at the same time as the 10k and followed the same route for 9km then headed towards the Poniente district before returning to the finish at the town hall. Graeme finished in a time of 95 minutes placing him 190th overall and 11th in his age category. His race was also joined by a stag party and then a hen party, which for him, at the pace he was running at, was more of a hindrance than it was for John and Geoff.

Immediately he finished the race he collected his possessions to get the tram back to Alicante then a taxi back to Gran Alacant.

Congratulations

in the 10k whilst Graeme took part in the 21k. After the torrential rain of Thursday night the forecast for Saturday was more rain, but thankfully the rain held off giving pleasant running conditions for the 18:30 start. Large crowds cheered us on as we set of with encouragement coming from the many bars and restaurants. Once we got onto Avda Madrid on Playa Levante, the crowds were a little more animated, especially as we passed the Tikki Bar, where for a brief moment we were joined by one or two patrons still holding on to their drinks, but as you would expect, they pulled over after about 20 metres, still hanging on to their glasses without spilling a drop.

As for the 10k, John was 7th in his age category with Geoff finishing in 8th but their overall finishing positions were 631 and 633 respectively, I don’t know where

Some many months ago, Chloe went back to the UK and we haven’t heard from her since. Well this week she was back in contact saying she is returning to Spain in April with Elise her newly born daughter.

We send our congratulations to Chloe and her partner on the birth of their adorable daughter. Welcome back Chloe and we look forward to seeing you out and about again, maybe pushing the stroller when you start your running again.

UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS: 15th April Brotons Villa De El Campello 10km & 5km 24th April 10km Rotary Elche

30th April Vertical Running Bigastro

If you want to join us contact Geoff 0044/ 747 685 1356

GRAN ALACANT GOLF SOCIETY

GAGS are now back to playing twice a week, Tuesday and Friday at 8am. We are looking forward to meeting up with our regular players and welcoming new members whether they be residents or visitors.

Time: on both days normally 8am so please be there by 7.40am. Occasionally the Starter may request we change the time so unless you are a regular golfer it would be best to check with us beforehand.

SOCIETY DETAILS ARE AS FOLLOWS: Where: El Plantio Golf Resort. The official address is A-79, Km3, 03114, Alicante.

Cost: usually €50 per round at peak times to include a buggy plus €1.50 mandatory insurance charge. It can sometimes be cheaper during less busy, off peak seasons.

In addition the Society requires €5 sweep money which is all paid out at the end of the round.

When: the formal Society Day is Tuesdays weekly when all golfers are most welcome.

In addition we have an informal get together every Friday which has always been a Gentleman’s Day.

We look forward to seeing you.

For more information please contact: Michael (966 698 925) Tony (966 183 004)

BICI GRAN ALACANT

We are a small group who spend most of the time here in Gran Alacant.

If you are interested in joining one of our rides look us up on Facebook Gran Alacant Road Cyclist (Bici Gran Alacant) where ride details are posted.

TENNIS CLUB - EURO TENIS

For players of all standards near Gran Alacant, Santa Pola, La Marina & Elche Playing Tuesday and Friday mornings, 10.00 - 12.00 at Club de tenis Elche For more details email: eurotenis2@gmail.com

GRAN ALACANT WALKING FOOTBALL New members are also made very welcome.

On the social front, some members continue enjoying the improved form of Elche CF and are looking forward to the remainder of the La Liga season.

Our Indoor Sessions at the Polideportivo Gran Alacant on Av. D’Escandinavia,78 every Wednesday at 11am continue to be well attended with members coming back from the UK more regularly now with the relaxation of the Covid travel restrictions.

Still no further news on the promised outdoor astroturf facility.

We will try to get an update from our local councilor, Oscar Valenzuela for next month.

Stay safe everyone…

John Fraser +44 7866315087 I +34 630 582322

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