QFocus On Costa Blanca South December 2023

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DECEMBER 2023

COSTA BLANCA south

Serving the community since 1993

FORTHCOMING EVENTS ······· PLACES TO VISIT ······· GARDENING TIPS ······· ASTRONOMY ······· HOROSCOPES ······· & MUCH MORE

QFocus Magazine December 2023

SATURN’S RINGS

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A couple of months ago I mentioned that this winter would be a good time to have a look at Saturn’s rings, before they appear to close up and become edge on to us for a few years. It wasn't long before I received a few questions asking how this could be, so I'll try to explain.

The best way to start is by looking at the solar system from above, with the sun in the centre. The third planet out is the Earth of course, it takes a year to go around the Sun. Saturn is the sixth planet out, it takes nearly 30 years to orbit the sun and like Earth its axis leans over, about 27 degrees in Saturn’s case. As both planets circle our star, we are looking at Saturn from different angles, sometimes seeing the rings angled towards us, sometimes angled away.

Between these two there are times, twice in every orbit when we only see the edge of the rings, and that is what we will experience next year.

My friend Ron in our astronomy group is a brilliant amateur astrophotographer and over the last few years has taken shots of Saturn. This month’s photo is one of his, and you can see the rings changing from year to year. If you take a moment to look properly, you'll realise that it’s our viewpoint that’s changing.

Incidentally, back in 1970 when my love of astronomy became serious, pictures like this just didn’t exist, even the best pictures from the 200 inch telescope at Mt Palomar were nowhere near as good. That’s because each of these pictures is actually many, sometimes hundreds of pictures combined in to one. Each one adds more detail until an expert like Ron gets these results. It’s called image stacking, if you want the technical term.

I was also asked where Saturn’s rings came from, that’s an easy one to answer. They are from a disintegrated moon, and only about 400 million years old, that’s like yesterday in astronomy. The lost moon, we call it Chrysalis, broke apart and became all those thousands of bits of rock and ice we see today. Whether Chrysalis was hit by another moon or was torn apart by gravitational forces, what’s called reaching the Roche limit, no one is certain yet. Personally, I think it was torn apart.

My last comment about this is from a TV program with Dara O’Briain the comedian and amateur astronomer. He wisely pointed out how a newcomer seeing great pictures of the planets etc might expect to see something similar when looking through a telescope. I’m afraid that isn’t possible, it’s digital photography that’s changed everything, our Mk 1 eyeballs can’t compete with technology. ● To find out more about observing and astronomy why not join our group, email us at vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com to find out more.

Oates, Group.

Charles Ast ronomy Vega Baja

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QFocus Magazine December 2023

QF���� Maga���e De�e��e� 2023

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www.femalefocusonline.com It is not unusual for me to be very disorganised when it comes to Christmas, but this year is even worse than previous. I haven't bought one present as yet and cannot foresee when I am going to be able to spare the time to go Christmas shopping as yet. I think I am going to have to dedicate one or two days to blitz it all which kind of takes the pleasure out of it. It seems that time has gone by so quickly over the last few months that I've lost track of what day and month we are in. Although our kids are now all grown up, you would think the buying process would be easier but it is actually harder to know what to buy. Hopefully some ideas will start to flow in my direction soon…??

I am hoping and praying that the year ends on a very high note with a win on the El Gordo, although I won't hold my breath. I have purchased a few tickets from different areas when I've been out and about on my travels so I'm hoping this might be a lucky omen for me.

As always, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our readers, clients and contributors for their support throughout the year and long may it continue. Merry Christmas to you all from the team of Female Focus Publications and we wish you all a very healthy and prosperous New Year.

Michelle Until the next time.....

QFocus Magazine covering the Alicante South region and Focus On Magazine covering the Alicante North region.

Discuss your advertising with your local representative:-

Sales Manager Michelle 663 178 228 michelle@femalefocusonline.com

QFocus Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055 Pick up your next issue on 2 January

Deadline for advertising & editorial - 18 Dec

Please send editorial to editor@femalefocusonline.com Advert content to adver�sing@femalefocusonline.com

Sweet Caroline Blue Jeans Cracklin’ Rosie all the hits and more

F.A.B. (Friends after Bereavement) Suitable for Restaurants, Outdoor Venues & Private Parties Call JJ.Jones - 684416833 neildiamondtribute1@gmail.com

We are a relaxed and friendly mixed group who meet once a week in the lounge/bar of the Laguna Hotel in Quesada at 3pm for a chat and coffee. The aim of the group is to support those who have lost someone close and help make new friends. We also enjoy meals / lunches out and day trips etc. For more information call Sheila 966 719 149, Brenda 966 718 403 or Jackie 645 928 242 or just come along for a chat one Saturday.

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QFocus Magazine December 2023

Neil Diamond The Tribute

The show starts with a 1 hour first set which consists of the most popular ballads Neil Diamond has performed from the film The Jazz Singer including Love On The Rocks, Hello Again and Songs of Life.

The second set is 50 minutes of audience participation with songs including Forever In Blue Jeans, Cracklin Rosie, America and of course everyone's favourite Sweet Caroline.

The show is suitable for restaurants and outdoor venues and private parties and music bars.

HELLO AGAIN. JJ.Jones has been portraying Neil Diamond for the past 30+ years taking him as far away as Australia for 5 years touring, and 3 years in UK theatres with his 7 piece band. For the last 13 years he has been performing as one if the top acts in Benidorm.

The time has come to now perform his show outside of Benidorm in venues in the Southern Costa Blanca and beyond.

The show comes complete with full P.A. and state of the art lighting system.

To book this show contact Lin or JJ at neildiamondtribute1@gmail.com, or www.facebook.com/neildiamondtributebenidormJjJones, or telephone 684 416 833.

QFocus Magazine December 2023

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HELP Vega Baja

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Christmas is on its way, so why not join us for our Fair on Saturday 9 December from 10am to 1pm.

Lots of exciting goodies including homemade cakes & sausage rolls, plus Christmas gifts & clothing, tombola & our Grand Christmas Raffle.

Just like last year we´ll be at the charity shop & at the Olive Tree in San Miguel.

All proceeds to Help Vega Baja The Friendship Group will be meeting at Butterflies in Jacarilla for a Christmassy Afternoon Tea. The group is open to singles or couples who would like to meet up to chat & get to know new people. Booking is essential.

For more information 966 723 733 or visit our Facebook page 'Asociacion Help Vega Baja'

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Putting the fizz into the festive season

If you’re looking for Christmas bubbles to see in the New Year - or to enjoy at any time of year - Spain produces a fine amount of sparkling wine and cava to rival champagne for its quality and, certainly, for its price.

A good quality sparkling wine is produced in the Jalon valley.

Bodegas Xaló’s Bahía Brut Nature sparkling wine is made with the Moscatel grape variety, typical of the Marina Alta. You can get six bottles online from Bodegas Xaló for €34.80.

Other cava to sample include the award-winning Codorniu Ars Collecta Grand Rosé 2020, or brands such as Reyes de Aragón, Gramona and Vilarnau.

For wine connoisseurs it is worth looking out for the different categories of cava, defined by the aging of each bottle. Cava de Guarda is aged for a minimum of 9 months; Cava de Guarda Superior is aged for more than 18 months (Reserva) or 30 months (Gran Reserva); and the prestigious Cava de Paraje Calificado, that has been aged for more than 36 months.

One thing that sets cava apart from most sparkling wines is the traditional production method, as well as the quality of the grapes.

Known as méthode champenoise, from its French origins, the traditional method involves a second fermentation in the bottle.

Bodegas Xaló sparkling wine is also made with the champenoise or traditional method.

Cava goes well with paella or any fish or shellfish dish as well as with chocolate or strawberries. Alternatively, it can be drunk on its own as the perfect partner at any celebration.

QFocus Magazine December 2023

QFocus Magazine December 2023

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5 FACTS ABOUT ENCLOSING PATIOS OR TERRACES YOU DIDN'T EXPECT IN SPAIN

article supplied by Martinez de la Casa Architects

Patios and semi-open porches are very popular in Spain and are traditional Mediterranean architecture as they introduce cool breezes into the property and provide shaded areas. The traditional living style is based on intense use of the outer spaces due to the excellent weather, which explains why our properties tend to be small compared to other Northern countries, with larger patios, porches, conservatories and sun terraces. Under this mindset, it is frequent for international property owners in Spain to enclose patios, semi-opened porches, terraces, pergolas etc, without a proper 'major' licence. Often there is no problem until it’s time to sell. At this point, lawyers freeze the sale, and either the extension needs to be demolished or legalised, or the purchasers pull out, alarmed by the illegal extensions.

Yes, in the Spanish system, these type of enclosures require a major licence, and the reasons are: They increase the size of the property: covering a patio or glazing a terrace adds new metreage, even if done within the footprint, transforming exterior space or semi-exterior to interior space.

It increases the number of rooms of the premises: Number of rooms and new uses are incorporated into the property.

It affects the description of the escrituras (title deeds): They imply that the escrituras and the rest of the property’s legal paperwork become discrepant to the reality, raising legal issues.

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

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

What are the consequences of having these enclosures carried out without a proper licence?

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

For the above reason and if not detected by the authorities, they will devalue the price of the property if it is being marketed or will become a bump in the marketing process.

How to fix it if you have installed these kinds of installations?

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

The Conditions to Obtain a Retrospective Licence are: • In Murcia, to obtain a Retrospective Licence, extensions must be at least 4 years old.

• In Almeria, the building work needs to be over 6 years old.

• In Alicante, the building work needs to have been completed before August 2010.

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

Currently the process for obtaining a Retrospective Licence is straightforward. Once confirmed, Martinez de la Casa Architects will arrange an appointment to survey the pool/extension requiring only your NIE and current Title-Deeds. Afterwards, the Retrospective Licence is stamped by the Official College of Architects or Notarised and delivered within 10 working days (guaranteed).

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

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

For all enquiries or to arrange an appointment, please call 665 810 411 (English) or visit www.martinezdelacasa.com to see an impressive list of over 300 testimonials.

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Experience Christmas in Alicante Alicante is lit up for Christmas with festive lighting in 114 streets and 2,000 decorative signs throughout the city. There’s also a monumental Christmas tree standing 18-metres high in Avenida de la Constitución and a large, but friendlylooking, bear in the Plaza de la Montañeta.

Alicante is well-known for the number of nativity scenes (belén) dotted around the city and this year there is a giant one in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. This monumental nativity scene has held a Guinness record since it was created in 2020 by artist José Manuel García "Pachi". It is officially the tallest nativity scene in the world, thanks to the figure of Joseph, who stands at 18 metres high. Mary is just over 10 metres, while the baby Jesus leaning in his cradle is 3.25 metres.

Whilst soaking up the Christmas atmosphere in Alicante, there are also plenty of chances for some festive shopping. Alicante has a wide range of top brands and independent stores in and around Avenida Maisonnave, as well as several shopping centres such as Puerta de Alicante and Gran Vía, and the El Corte Inglés department store.

Highly recommended is a visit to the bustling central market with more than 250 stalls selling local fruit, vegetables, meat and fish.

QFocus Magazine December 2023

QFocus Magazine December 2023

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In Spain, more than 2.000.000 people over 65 live alone.

For most of us, the season to be jolly has arrived. A time to spend with friends and family. A time to enjoy good food, good company and good conversation.

Yet for many it is the season of loneliness, solitude and despair. For many, the urbanisations they live in were flourishing communities.

Now the homes around them have become holiday homes, that are seldom visited. Now they live in ghost towns rarely seeing anyone.

Now many of the elderly dread the coming season.

So this season please take a walk around your area and look for people that are living alone. Look for people that would appreciate a chat or a cuppa. Spend a short time listening to their stories. It has amazed me the adventures some people have lived. A short amount of your time could be the best present some people will receive this season.

I believe retirement communities are a fantastic solution. They offer a caring, protected location. Most of the retirement facilities here in Spain are not becoming quiet communities. In fact most are becoming full and homes are getting harder to find. Retirement communities offer you a home, where you can enjoy your independence, with the support and a thriving community. If you are a social butterfly there are always people around. If not, then the staff are always there for you.

Stephen is the Marketing Manager at the Colina Club in Calpe.

Why not give him a call; arrange a tour; where he can answer any questions and explain the benefits of living at the Colina Club.

There's no obligation, of course, and certainly no pressure. But, together you may figure out the perfect situation for your next stage of life.

So, call him today on 96 583 5226 or send him an email to Stephen@ColinaClub.com.

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Crescendo International Choir To Give Seven Concerts Before Christmas

QFocus Magazine December 2023

Crescendo International Choir plans to give seven concerts before Christmas, 2023. The first of these concerts will take place on Sunday, November 12 at 18:30 at the Club in Quesada. It will be a fundraiser for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal which supports military veterans and their families.

The following Saturday, November 18, the choir will perform at Salt Church in Los Montesinos at 18:30. On Saturday, December 2, the choir will give a concert at the Catholic Church in Benijofar after the 19:00 mass is over. The next evening, they will sing at Rincon de Miquel’s restaurant in Los Montesinos.

On Thursday, December 14, they will give a Christmas music concert at La Siesta Church in Torrevieja. This concert will also take place at 18:30. The following night they will give a concert at Plaza de Constitution in Torrevieja, along with three other choirs, with a time to be announced later. Lastly, the choir plans a Christmas concert on Saturday, December 16, again at the Club in Quesada at 18:30.

Choir rehearsals take place at Rincon de Miguel in Los Montesinos between 17:15 to 19:45 every Thursday.

Previously the choir rehearsed on Monday nights, from 17:30 to 20:00.

For more details about the choir, see www.crescendo-choir.com. You can also follow the group on Facebook at Crescendo Choir. If you have questions, email info@crescendo-choir.com.

The choir would be delighted to welcome new singers, especially basses. Our current choir includes people from England, Scotland, Wales, the US, the Netherlands, Germany, and Scandinavia, among other nationalities. Our Music Director, Irene Oliva, and pianist, Antonio Guillen, are accomplished Spanish musicians.

QFocus Magazine December 2023 COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Founded by Benny Davis in 2007 Andante International Choir is the only choir in the Costa Blanca community devoted to sacred choral works and classical pieces. They meet in Los Montesinos at Calle San Antonio, 4 on Thursday nights from 7.15pm until 9pm. All are welcome to join them. They especially need tenors and basses. For more information contact Andante International Choir member Sue Lewey at suelewey@gmail.com. Also see the Facebook page, Andante International Choir (Spain).

The Costa Blanca Singers were recently delighted to donate 500€ to AAN. Pictured here are Lonée Hopwood and Janet Ford as they presented the donation to Brenda Bentley and Lesley Snell. Throughout December, The Costa Blanca Singers have currently been booked to perform at six local events as the run up to Christmas gets into full swing.

Watch out for them at The Winter Wonderland in aid of The Orihuela orphanage and ECCH on 2nd December, Ciudad Quesada raising funds for The Royal British Legion on 8th December, Palm Tree Consum Square in aid of Debra on 14th December and San Fulgencio Main Square, performing at The Ayuntamiento fiesta on 16th December. Plus lots more. Please do join them and sing along at any of the above venues. You are also welcome to attend any open rehearsal at The Social Centre La Marina urbanizacion on any Wednesday at 2pm, or call 641 992 164 for information or visit costablancasingers.org.

GARDENING HINTS & TIPS

from the Vega Baja Gardening Club

FUN WITH YOUR POINSETTIA

www.femalefocusonline.com Rojales Pantomime Group: Do you want to start off the Christmas season having a jolly good time, then go along to see the pantomime Snow White & the Seven Christmas Elves.

Guaranteed to lift the mood and get the spirit of Christmas flowing, a traditional pantomime for all the family. Performances are at the Teatro Capitol, Rojales on Wednesday, 13th, Thursday 14th December (7:30pm start) and Friday, 15th December (5pm start). Tickets 10€ for adults & 5€ for children under 12yrs. Make sure you get your tickets for what promises to be a fun filled Pantomime! Tickets available from: Post Room Benijofar; Card Place Benimar; Post Box Doña Pepe; Post Box Entre Naranjos; Carpet Heaven Los Montesinos; The Card Place Punta Prima; Oasis San Luis; Treasure Chest Quesada; Post Shop Villamartin, or email Rojalespanto@yahoo.com.

Studio 32: wish to say a huge Thank You to all who came to see and experience The Studio 32 West End Party in November. 'It was wonderful to share this unique show with so many of our long-term followers and see many new faces in the audience. We are also delighted to have new members treading the boards with us from teenagers to pensioners.' YOU are very welcome to come along at their next open days to find out more. All welcome. Dates to be announced next month. For their next show, The Pajama Game they will be returning to their regular venue, The Cardinal Beluga theatre with show dates 22nd-25th May. For ongoing updates follow www.studiothirtytwo.org

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I don't know how many of these lovely plants are sold each year, but it must be a vast number. There are so many different types now with leaves of all shades, patterns and colours, there's something for everyone.

Most of us plonk the plant down in a suitable spot, and look after it until it fades away. However, with a plant that is so closely associated with Christmas, you could spend a bit of time and a few euros and make a fun Santa Claus pot to hold yours. The idea I'm showing here is just one way, you can decorate yours in any way you choose, with as many frills and extras as you like.

It consists of 2 terracotta pots a 22 cm lower pot and a 19cm upper pot to hold the plant. The lower pot goes upside down and you can paint it to be a Santa's body, with foam or ping pong balls as his buttons. The upper pot you paint as Santa's face, I kept it simple, but just do whatever pleases you. When all the paint has dried, you use a 7mm bolt at least 3cms long to join them together. Put some big washers on the bolt, next to the pots to spread the load, and only tighten finger tight or you'll break the pots. I also put a layer of silicon between the 2 pots for safety.

None of that is complicated, and all those bits can be bought in a typical Chinese shop or many other places.

That's all there is to it, you have something unique to you, or maybe a nice present for someone. Happy Christmas everyone.

Andrea Oates. Vega Baja Garden Club.

If you would like to be part of this band of charitable entertainers, please email editor@femalefocusonline.com.

Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Full details of all Stage Diary entertainment groups are available online at www.femalefocusonline.com

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Tuck into Christmas turrón

Turrón is the must-have sweet treat for Christmas in Spain. Made with honey, sugar, egg whites and almonds, it makes a delicious alternative to a tin of chocolates to enjoy while watching festive films.

The best turrón is made in the small town of Jijona, about 30 kilometres inland from Alicante, where you can visit the Turrón Museum for a complete history of the Christmas sweet while seeing how it is made.

Favourite brands are El Lobo and 1880, owned by the Sirvent family. The family has been making turrón since 1725, sharing the traditional recipes for 11 generations.

Turrón comes in hard and soft varieties and a variety of flavours such as coconut, chocolate, dried fruits and nuts. To make sure you are buying top-class turrón, look for a stamp saying Jijona Denominacion de Origen y Geografica Protegida, which guarantees authenticity and quality.

To satisfy a chocolate craving, you can visit the Valor chocolate museum in Villajoyosa to learn about the history of Valor chocolate since its conception in 1881 and get to sample the produce. Valor’s appeal can be summed up in one word: quality. Valor uses the finest cocoa beans from around the world to produce the best chocolate. The higher the cocoa content the better and Valor chocolates contain at least 35% cocoa solids to give a rich, luxurious flavour.

Staying on the ‘buy local’ theme, you can get succulent dates from the largest palm grove in Europe, which is in Elche, and has more than 200,000 trees. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000 and some trees are more than 300 years old.

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QFocus Magazine December 2023

QFocus Magazine December 2023

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Here are two Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try. It is not a math game at all - it is a pure logic game.

F i l l i n t h e g r i d s o t h a t e v e r y r o w, e v e r y c o l u m n a n d e v e r y 3 x 3 grid contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repeats, which means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

Across 1 Thick slice (4) 4 Layered Italian dish (7) 9 Eyebrow darkeners (7) 10 German sea scourge (1-4) 11 Prepare for publication (4) 12 Saviour (8) 14 Permeable by liquids (6) 15 Capable of wounding (6) 19 Glove material clanks if disturbed (8) 21 Getaway spots (4) 23 Island in the Bay of Naples (5) 24 Burn unsteadily (7) 25 Good spot for a summit meeting? (7) 26 Deep black (4) Down 2 Taller and thinner (7) 3 Soft cheese (4) 4 One who pays the rent (6) 5 It's at home on the range (8) 6 Brush a horse (5) 7 Go into (5) 8 Maintenance (6)

13 Bright light of day (8) 16 Thai capital (7) 17 Dr tees off - could be a very large bunker! (6) 18 Fish out of water (6)

19 Series of changes (5) 20 Pass into disuse (5) 22 Designed by Issigonis (4) See back pages for answers

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Naval Veteran honoured by 1st Sea Lord

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Local Los Dolses resident Carl Louden served in the Royal Navy from June 1978 until his retirement in October 2021, a period of some 43 years.

Now the Treasurer of the Royal Navy Association Torrevieja Branch, his service was honoured at the Branch’s annual Trafalgar Night dinner that took place on Saturday 21 October 2023.

He was presented with a rare Gold Va l e d i c t o r y Certificate by Captain Steve McGlory RN the current Defence Attaché based in Madrid, who along with his wife Maribel, was the Guest of Honour.

The certificate was signed by the 1st Sea Lord, and comments on Carl’s exceptional commitment over the years, including service onboard Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia, operational service in a number of theatres and the award of a Second Sea Lord’s Commendation for his contribution whilst employed as the RN Staff Officer in HMS KING ALFRED. Carl has been fully supported by his close family and his wife Nicola, herself a Naval Veteran of some 24 years’ service.

QFocus Magazine December 2023

QFocus Magazine December 2023

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WORD SEARCH Find all the Spanish words from the word list in the puzzle grid. Words may be found going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally. Answers can be found in the back of the magazine. Good Luck.

ACEBO - HOLLY ÁNGEL - ANGEL ÁRBOL - TREE CELEBRACIÓN CELEBRATION DECORACIONES DECORATIONS DESEO - WISH ELFOS - ELVES ENVOLVER - WRAP (TO) ESTRELLA - STAR FIESTA - PARTY LAZO - BOW MUÉRDAGO - MISTLETOE NAVIDAD - CHRISTMAS NOCHE BUENA CHRISTMAS EVE NOCHE VIEJA NEW YEAR'S EVE OROPEL - TINSEL PAPÁ NOEL - FATHER CHRISTMAS PAVO - TURKEY

POLO NORTE - NORTH POLE REGALOS - PRESENTS RENOS - REINDEER

TRINEO - SLEIGH TURRÓN - NOUGAT

See back pages for answers

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Season's Greetings from the Focus On Publications team

Torrevieja church celebrates 100 years & re-opens after almost four years closed

The small church at Urbanización Lago Jardin, opposite the Dña Monse Hotel on the CV95, re-opened for worship on Friday 1st December with a special Mass to celebrate its one hundredth birthday. Having been closed for almost four years its centenary is being celebrated in the local church community. During December there are going to be a number of special services at the church.

On Friday 8th December at 11.30 there is a Mass to celebrate the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary; on Tuesday 12th December there is carol singing outside the church from 18.00 – 19.00; and on Christmas Eve, 24th December, there will be a Vigil Mass at 17.00 to celebrate the Nativity of Christ.

Beginning on Sunday 14th January Lago Jardín church will be open for the Holy Eucharist on the second and fourth Sundays of the month.

For further information contact Father Richard A. Seabrook on 693 932 438; email him at frras@c-of-e-torrevieja.com; visit the church's Facebook page “@anglicantorrevieja” or go to their website: www. https://www.c-of-e-torrevieja.com.

Season's Greetings from the Focus On Publications team

Spot the 13 differences (answers in the classified pages)

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Season's Greetings from the Focus On Publications team

Season's Greetings from the Focus On Publications team

Elche Children's Care Home CHRISTMAS GIFT BAG APPEAL

Christmas will be here before we know it and the children at Elche Children's Home will be looking forward to their gifts from Papa Noel.

This year we would like to give them a gift bag which can be filled with things like beanie hats, socks, gloves, a purse or wallet, hair accessories, sweets or chocolate, t-shirts etc for children aged between 12-17 years.

If you and your friends would like to fill a Christmas bag either individually or as a group and bring joy to the heart of a young boy or girl we will send you details including their name and age.

The value need be no more than 30€.

For further information contact Richard.

Tel/WhatsApp 633 655 180 or email richard@hondonclub.com Thank you in advance.

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Season's Greetings from the Focus On Publications team

Spot the odd one out

A

B

C

D

F E Find the answers in the classified pages

QF���� Maga���e De�e��e� 2023

Kenny Corris brings you

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OUR

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OROSCOPE

Aries: The New Moon in the ninth house allows you to work Libra: The Sun in the fourth house shines a light on domestic with your higher mind to produce a quantum leap. Ending the activities. A project gets the green light, whilst you know full year on a high note, it is just a great way for you to prepare for well there is more to something going on right now, than first meets the eye! a challenging New Year ahead.

Taurus: Mercury Directs in the ninth house resonating with Scorpio: The Full Moon in the ninth house sees positive plans Pluto. This year has been a learning curve and you now know for travel finally in motion. This is a journey you have long why things had to be the way that they were during this awaited, and whilst you know where you are going; who’s going with you? revealing past twelve months.

Gemini: The Full Moon in the second house shines a light on Sagittarius: Venus enters your sign at the end of the month. your specific gifts and talents. Dig deep within to bring to Peace, harmony and joy are the keynotes, and taking into the surface that which you need to steer you onwards and consideration all your recent hard work, it is surely time to put your feet up! upwards in 2024 ahead.

Cancer: Venus in the fifth house brings romance, love and Capricorn: Your intuition is high just after the Festive Season. creativity onto the scene. Financial abundance is on the cards, Enjoy exploring that which you need answers to. Venus and it brings with it an end to monetary worries for the New delivers you insights that reveal the truth that you have upheld for some time, bringing solution.

Year ahead, with all it implies!

Leo: Above all, the forthcoming Mercury retrograde brings Aquarius: The Sun enters the twelfth house bringing you you a proactive energy. Random acts of your kindness stand interpretations of recent vivid dreams. Nothing should stop you in good stead for reaping the rewards you both need and you taking your spiritual journey right now, but if you were waiting for a sign: you got it at last! deserve right now!

Virgo: Your ruler, Mercury, retrogrades in Sagittarius mid Pisces: Go with the flow this Holiday Season, and have some month. With significant Cosmic back up you are ready to fun whilst you are at it. The Sun enters your tenth house and reflect right now, but whatever you do, do not surrender to the there are positive reasons for you doing what you did. The best of times is now! conflicts of others.

Happy Christmas everyone and see you in the New Year. Thank your Lucky Stars.

As an Astrologer, Kenny has worked tirelessly for over forty years to produce quality Horoscopes Worldwide.

He has received a major Award for his contribution to the Astrological Arts by being voted into the Top Twenty World’s Best Astrologers by the American Federation of Certified Psychics. He is awarded five stars as a Lightworker, and Psychic Medium. For personal readings/castings please call Kenny on: 686 361 594. kennycorris@hotmail.com www.kennycorris.com. Confidential and Personal Reply Guaranteed! Online Readings: by Zoom, Skype,WhatsApp, Viber, FaceTime.

www.femalefocusonline.com

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QFocus Magazine December 2023

You’re invited to come and meet the Easy Horse Care Centre rescued horses, ponies and donkeys Call 652 021 980 or email rescue@easyhorsecare.net.

For more information visit our website http://www.easyhorsecare.net PEACHES is one of 2 sisters who recently arrived, she is 12 weeks old and looking for her loving forever home. Her mum is a small to medium Podenco. She gets on with all our animals and loves to play. If you are interested in this little girl, please call 711 075 305 or WhatsApp, k9clubinfo@gmail.com.

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Calling all clubs and charities - let us know about your forthcoming events and animals for adoption.

See page 4 for contact details.

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS For families and friends of problem drinkers. There are meetings in Torrevieja. Phone 634 349 961.

SHOP LOCAL - EAT LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

Easy

Spot The Odd One Out - E

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS Across: 1 Slab, 4 Lasagne, 9 Pencils, 10 U-boat, 11 Edit, 12 Redeemer, 14 Porous, 15 Barbed, 19 Calfskin, 21 Inns, 23 Capri, 24 Flicker, 25 Everest, 26 Inky.

Down: 2 Lankier, 3 Brie, 4 Lessee, 5 Saucepan, 6 Groom, 7 Enter, 8 Upkeep, 13 Sunshine, 16 Bangkok, 17 Desert, 18 Misfit, 19 Cycle, 20 Lapse, 22 Mini.

Medium