New digital newsletter for residents in La Nucia

Bart Gommans with La Nucia Mayor Bernabe Cano 

One of the objectives of the Town Hall of La Nucia is to inform the residents of the town any current news in a quick and efficient way . However, as there are more than 28 different nationalities living in the community it can be challenging said Bart Gommans, Councillor for the Department of Foreign Residents.
To address this issue Bart has announced plans to lauch a new digital newsletter for EU residents, with information on current events such as seminars, trips, fiestas, performances etc which take place in the municipality of La Nucia. The digital newsletter will be available in Spanish, English, Dutch, German and French.
If you live in La Nucia and would like to recieve the digital newsletter please email:
bartgommans@lanucia.es stating "I would like to receive the new newsletter of La Nucia in English" (or whichever language you prefer)
Bart would like to assure any residents that do subscribe that their email will NOT be passed on to any third parties and you are able to unsubscribe at any time.
If you would like more information please contact the Town Hall Extension in C/Barbados 1, La Nucia - located near roundabout No. 5 behind Mercadona supermarket.
Further to my story about Benidorm Town Hall cutting 30% of street lighting to save on money La Nucia are following suit. They are introducing the second phase of energy saving measures in order to save 450,000€ of their one million euro electricity bill by switching off lights in public buildings (at night), reducing the time that the fountains are on for and reducing the lighting in the municipality.

Jazz night in Alfaz del Pi

Last Saturday night, at the Casa de Cultura in Alfaz there was a fund raising Jazz & Swing evening in aid of the AECC - the national Spanish Cancer charity.

Joanna and the fabulous Simon Small aka Mr Buble

It was a magnificent concert featuring the best musicians around - the fabulous Queen of Jazz Joanna James and her Quartet opened the event with 3 numbers and Joanna then went on to compere the evenings events. Simon Small and his Michael Buble tribute made his first apperance on a concert stage and was warmly received. If you didn't get enough of Simon he can be heard every evening at the Stardust Club in Benidorm between 9pm and 10pm.

Footage of drumming legend Eric Delany 

Abel Vilaro on clarinet came all the way from Madrid for this special event and is always a firm favourite - he plays "Benny Goodman style". A video tribute to the late Eric Delany was played on the huge cinema screen on stage which concluded the first half of the evening. Eric was one of the Britains most inventive and exuberant drummers of the 50's and early 60's and he made three Royal Variety Show appearances, the first in 1956. Prior to his death in July Eric donated some stage clothes to be auctioned off and proceeds donated to the AECC. If you would like to bid then please contact Pamela Dawson Tasker, President of the Alfaz branch of the AECC by email on pdawson802t@cv.gva.es
The second half opened with George Watts and Toni Belenguer who gave public thanks to Mike Smith of Tuxedo Junction Big Band for his contribution to live music on the Costa Blanca. This was followed by heartthrob guitarist Hector Gilbert and Lydia Arquellano on vocals and the evening was rounded up  with Cuban Jazz from Tany Allende and SonxDos.

Tany Allende

I contacted Pamela after the event and she was delighted with the turnout - over 300 . She would like to offer her thanks Joanna and "Chicolito" and to everyone who made the evening a success and was delighted to announce that just over 1500€ was raised for the AECC.
This Saturday, 1st October Joanna James and her quartet will be closing the month long Alfaz Jazz festival with a FREE concert in Albir. They will be performing on a specially errected stage opposite the Ritz Brasserie on Albir Sea Front from 10pm - 11.30pm.
You can also hear them every Sunday at their new venue "La Frontera" bar/restuarant between 2pm-5pm located opposite El Cisne Rastro.

Joanna closing the successful evening

International Day in Alfaz del Pi

This Sunday, 2nd October Alfaz del Pi will be hosting its annual International Day. Similar to the hugely successful European day back in May which was on the beach front, this one in contrast will be set in the centre of the town at the Polydeportivo sports centre. The number 10 bus stops right outside the Casa de Cultura (large pink building) and the Poly is located to the rear.
There will be 37 stalls of all nationalities and different associations based in the vicinity which include AECC; Companians in Albir; U3A; Norway; Columbia; Peru; Cuba; Romania; Dominican Republic ... the list is endless. All the different countries will be exhibiting things from their homeland including the opportunity to sample some traditional food and drink - and from what I remember of the European Day the Mojito's went down very well!
The day kicks off from 11am and there will be a special opening ceremony by the Mayor, Vicente Arques at 12 Noon.  Throughout the day there will be performances of music and dance from the participating countries and associations and all money raised from the day will be donated to the Volunteer Centre of Alfaz del Pi. So come down to Alfaz this Sunday and join in the fun....

Fiddling at full speed.

Rehearsals are now in full swing for Footlights Theatre Group’s latest production, which will be the famous Broadway musical “Fiddler on the Roof”. Dutch and German patrons will know the show as “Anatevka”.

The hilarious "Dream Scene"

The show will be presented in Alfaz del Pi on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 November, then in Calpe, on Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 November.

The following day the cast of 30, plus scenery and props, head south, for a performance on Wednesday 23 November in Torrevieja. This will be presented in association with the Royal British Legion in Spain, District North, in the splendid new Teatro Municipal, Torrevieja.

This will be Footlights first ever show in Torrevieja, and they are delighted to be supporting RBL’s wonderful work and raising funds for the 90^th Anniversary Poppy Appeal.

Footlights have also recently taken over the tenancy of New Med Studio in Calpe (behind Hotel Diamante; so there “Fiddler” now has his own “Roof” over his head.

Performances are at 8.00pm (20.00). Tickets are now on sale, Adults 12€, Children (under14) 8€. Box office for Alfaz and Calpe Tel: 652 404 798, Monday to Friday mornings 11.00 to 13.00. There is a discount for group bookings of 10+.

Tickets for the Torrevieja performance are on sale from 1 October, from the theatre or local RBL members, and online from www.servicam.com

"Streetwise" expands to Albir on the Benidorm Road.

Pascalle - director of Streetwise Productions

Streetwise Productions, whose performers  have bought epics such as "Grease" and "Fame" to the stage at Benidorm Palace and the Auditorium in La Nucia amongst others are moving to bigger and better premises in Albir.
Founded by Pascalle Breuns, a Dutch born director and choreographer she has been sharing her passion by teaching both children and adults dance, acting and singing all her life.She currently teaches in many local schools including Spanish and Norwegian. Their current location in Altea is too small and they are about to open a brand new state-of-the-art studio in Albir - on the Albir to Benidorm Road just 200 metres past Albir Gardens & Mendoza supermarket and conveniently on the No 10 bus route but with plenty of parking available too.
I was taken around by Pascalle and was impressed by the size and attention to detail. Although still a building site you could see the potential and was assured that all will be ready for the grand opening next Friday, 30th September. There are so many health and safety regulations that have to be adhered to when working with children that it would put many off, but Pascalle takes it all in her stride.

Inside of new studio

There will be two separate dance studios - all mirrored with bars with specially imported sprung wooden flooring and two sound studios for singing & vocal coaching which will be home to the 2 show choirs. There will be changing rooms, bathrooms ( including one which is wheelchair accessable), kitchen, bar, costume room, beauty treatment rooms for us poor harassed mums and in the basement a simply massive area which will be used for rehersals of upcoming productions. They are currently working on "The CanCan" an adaptation of "Moulin Rouge" which will be performed  at the Auditorium in La Nucia on Saturday 29th October and then at Benidorm Palace in November - date to be confirmed.

Some of the students

Amongst the many different dance classes on offer are ballet, tap, salsa, hip hop, flamenco, cheer leading and they also offer Pilates, Step aerobics, Yoga and Zumba - including classes specially adapted for expectant mums!
Streetwise Productions have performed several charity shows with many of the top Benidorm tribute acts helping out free of charge. They  raise funds and awareness for "Dolphin Therapy" - a special charity which helps children with disabilities at Mundomar. The therapy is free and paid for by Aqualandia-Mundomar but money raised helps to fund the project so more children can benefit. Pascalle has witnessed first hand the difference that it can make as her daughter Zana has Downs Syndrome and after only one session saw how her daughter's concentration levels increased. She would love it to be available to all children and so works tirelessly to support this truely wonderful charity.

In rehersal.

Classes are limited to 20 and prices are 25€ per month based on 1 hour per week or 40€ for 2 hours per week. Discounts available for multiple classes.
If you would like more information then contact Pascalle on 677 070 890 or pop into the new studio after 30th September to take a look around and see whats on offer.

Wine bodega on outskirts of Benidorm.

Touring the vineyards

Like many  of us I enjoy the odd glass of wine and generally buy mine from the local supermarket. I usually drink Spanish wine and so was amazed to discover that literally down the road is a bodega!  Located in Alfaz del Pi, only a 10 minute drive from Benidorm you will come upon the "Enrique Mendoza Winery". It is a family run bodega steeped in tradition - in Spain on the birth of a son it was a tradition to plant vines ... Enrique had 3 sons and so the beginnings of his bodega took hold back in 1970's.

Final top up before being sealed.

You can book a tour where you will taken around the entire plant by Magda, niece of Enrique. She is extremly knowledgable and passionate about wine and will amaze you with facts and figures. For example, I was staggered that a good quality cork can cost up to 1.50€ .... in Lidl you can buy a bottle for less than that but its all to do with quality. Its like comparing cars - you can drive a Lamborgini or a Fiat 500 - both will get you from A to B but ....

Bottling plant

Unlike many bodega's they do not buy in any grapes but only use the ones they have grown themselves and of those they only use the best. From the grapes grown in Alfaz they produce mainly moscatel and they have another vineyard in Villena from which they produce their Reds.As we were there a fresh delivery was being decanted into the barrels ready for maturing. They have strict guidelines as to how long the wine has to lay for from the Diputacion. They produce ap. 300,000 bottles per year and export to many countries. "Santa Rosa Red" is listed as one of the top 10 wines of Spain - and its produced here on our doorstep.

Cellar with hundreds of barrels... nice place to be stuck!

They do not use ANY pesticides on the vines but instead use traps and homeopathic methods such as cinamon instead of sulphur and work alot with biodynamic techniques - I was stumped on that one too but Magda explained how they work with the moon. All the vine plots are fitted with sensors for moisture, humidity and stress levels of the plants and are controlled centrally by computer.(I did enquire about one of those for me)  We were taken around the cellars and bottling plant and learnt about the woods used for the barrels. Did you know that once the barrels are 5 years old they send them off to Scotland for maturing whiskey!

The tasting at the end of the tour.

After the tour comes the best bit - the tasting .... we were treated to 6 - including the award winning Santa Rosa and an incredible dessert wine - which was red!  I was totally shocked as always knew dessert wine to be like moscatel ... rather sweet but this one one really fruity rather than sweet. There were also plates of tapas comprising of manchego cheese and salami's and obviously some delicious chocolate to go with the dessert wine.
The tour costs 20€ and takes just over 1.5 hrs but you also each receive a bottle of delious red wine as a gift. You can also purchase any wines tasted in the shop at the end of the tour. I found it to be a facinating experience and the place is set in the most beautiful gardens. They also organise private functions such as wedding receptions - what a shame Im already married as it really is a breath taking setting.
If you are visting Benidorm its a nice outing to get away from the beach for a couple of hours or make a great gift for a wine drinker!
For more information contact Magda on 965 888 639 or email enoturismo@bodegasmendoza.com

Relevant articles
Jalon - a short drive from Benidorm
What you can but with 45p

Vending machines in Benidorm

Typical snack vending machine

We have been use to seeing vending machines for all sorts of things such as cans of coke, bottles of water, cigarettes,crisps, sweets and  hot drinks for some years now. Found in offices, cinema's, stations - almost everywhere that you turn there seems to be one.
They seem to be a fixture of modern society worldwide - probably originating from America no doubt.
Remember the old days when you would be going to someones for dinner, or for you boys going on your first date and suddenly realising that you are empty handed.  You could always rely on the petrol station for that last minute hideously garish wilting bouquet ... bet that brings back some memories  for some of you boys !

Fresh flowers !

Well, shopping at La Marina Shopping centre in Benidorm last weekend I was amazed to find a vending machine for fresh flowers! Yes, FRESH FLOWERS ! The machine is refridgerated to keep the blooms at their best and some even come with cuddly toys. There were even some bonsai trees - and they weren't even that expensive. Prices started at 11€ and the most expensive I saw was 25€. The machine took cash only but instructions were in Spanish, English, French and German. A truely amazing concept I though .... if you'd like to see it then its located at the rear entrance on the first floor.

Moors & Christians parade in Altea

Spectacular costumes

The highlight of the fiesta calendar in Altea comes this weekend (24th -26th September) when the town celebrates the Moors and Christians. This festival is celebrated all over Spain as their history is deeply rooted in the battles which took place over control of Spain in the 13th to 15th Century.

If you haven't been yet you really should attend .... and remember to take your camera as the costumes are simply stunning. The different penya's dress in elaborate and extremely expensive costumes of either the Moors or Chrsitians and re-enact the battles to the ammusement and cheers of local bystanders.

Boys scrub up well too!

Altea is easy to get to. On the N332 and only a ten minute drive from Benidorm; By train or on the No.10 bus.
There are activities going on throughout the weekend but the highlight is the parade through the main street pass the Town Hall. Spectators arrive early to stake their places at the front for a birds eye view - I assure you that you won't be disappointed.

Saturday 24th at 20.00pm is the Christians Parade
Monday 26th at 20.00pm is the Moors Parade.

Update to N322 roundabout to Alfaz from Benidorm.

Existing access to Alfaz from N332

Well work has restarted after the summer break ..... however, as reported back in February I somehow think that the promised June deaadline has been missed. Mind you - they didn't say what year... in which case !

The current access into Alfaz off the N332 from Benidorm is a nightmare. The council installed "temporary" traffic lights after the Gota Fria a few years ago when the underpass towards Albir got flooded and so left this the only access in and out of Alfaz. These traffic lights are costing the Alfaz residents 60,000€ per year to maintain.Im still puzzled by this cost .....

Straight ahead will be the new bridge over the tram

I went into the Town Hall to investigate on the progress and enquire about the (revised) expected finish date. Firstly, it is the Alicante Regional Government that is funding this venture - NOT Alfaz Town Hall/residents. The Town Hall are only "supervising the technical installations" I was told. They could not give me a definative competion date (which I found odd), but expected it to be completed by the end of this year.
The company which won the contract for the project is "Grupo Generala", a Murcia based construction company. The logo says it all ... it is based on a snail and they seem to replicate this in the speed of

Waiting for the asphalt

progress!

 When I went to look at the site yesterday there were only 2 vans, 4 workmen and a jcb - of which one was supervising the jcb. The bridge which will go over the new tram line has not even been started yet which leaves me to think that a year end finish is probably unattainable. It seems a shame that the workers are ferried in all the way from Murcia when there are plenty of unemployed construction workers in the Alfaz area.

Location for new roundabout by Arabi Plaza

 This brings to memory a clip from an old movie called "The Agony and the Ectasy" staring Charlton Heston as Michelangelo and Rex Harrison as Pope Julius II. In various scenes of the painting of the Sistine Chapel which took 4 years to complete, The Pope shouted to Michelangelo " When will you bring this work to an end?" and the reply was " When I have finished" !

Looks like this will be the communication between Alfaz Town Hall and Grupo Generala !!!

International Charities Day at El Cisne, Benidorm

Friday 23rd September is a date for you diaries - there will be a combination of 15 Costa Blanca based charities representing their organisations at El Cisne Market on the N332 (on the No.10 bus route).
Organisers Pamela Dawson-Tasker, President of the Alfas del Pi branch of the AECC and Stephen Ashley of the Samaritans in Spain not only expect this to be a fun day out for everyone but also a useful and profitable exercise for all those concerned. It will give the various charities participating a chance to network and introduce their organisations to the public.

El Cisne - venue of Friday's Charity event

Amongst the charities represented are : AECC (Asociacion Espanola contra el Cancer); Samaritans in Spain; MABS - Cancer support group; Emaus; Help International Benidorm; The Royal British Legion; Protectora de Animales; Dutch Veterans; Alzheimers; RAFA Wings Group; Costa Blanca Chaplaincy; APASA; Los Leones.
The charities will have the opportunity to sell items, both new and used to raise much needed funds for their continuing work on the Costa Blanca and also  have representatives who will be on hand to answer any questions about their various organisations. Although many already collaborate, this day will bring together other nationalities whose services could increase the assistance available to local residents.
Apart from the charitable associations taking part regular stall holders will be filling the market that day and the Dircetors of El Cisne will make sure that the usual facilities are available such as refreshments and live entertainment. Im sure that it will be a successful day and wish them luck.
Entry is free and the market will be open from 10.00 till 15.00. If you purchase a drink at the indoor bar then you will be offered a FREE plate of paella .... you can't get better than that!  If you would like further information please contact Pam on 966 860 735 or by email : pdawson802t@cv.gva.es

Costa Blanca Floral Club

Some of the stunning demonstrations.

Sue Makinson - chairman

Having started as two separate clubs, The Marina Alta Club which held demonstrations in Teulada and The Costa Blanca Club in Calpe, they amalgamated a few years ago and are members of N.A.F.A.S (National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies) The clubs new venue is The Salon de Actos in Moraira  and they meet on the fourth Thursday of the month (unless otherwise stated). There is a huge FREE carpark next to the venue so parking won't be a problem. Members and guests meet in the coffee lounge from 2.15pm onwards to chat and mingle before the 3pm start. Yearly membership fees are 20€ plus 5€ per session - non members/visitors pay 8€. It is the only floral club that serves the area - the only other one is all the way down in Torrevieja.
The Chairman of the club is Sue Makinson and she has been involved with the club since moving to Spain ap. 8 years ago. Whilst in the UK she was Chairman & Treasurer of the Levestock Green Floral Club in Hertfordshire so has plenty of experience in the world of flowers.

Carl Wilde

It is an English speaking floral club with approx 60 members including some Dutch and Germans ladies. Although most members are ladies there are quite a few gentlemen that attend the demonstrations.At each monthly meeting a special guest, often flown over from the UK  will amaze you with a themed demonstration (usually about 8 arrangements) - which are then raffled off at the end of the afternoon. Last year they  hosted Carl Wilde, one of Britains best loved floral designers. Most people associate him with ITV's "This Morning" but he also appeared on and hosted many other series, where his approach and flamboyant personality made him a household favourite.
Another guest demonstrator was Barry Grey - a Cheshire based International Floral designer with over 40 years of experience. He kindly left a signed copy of his book "A Priviledge and a Pleasure" after his visit which was raffled off to raise funds for the club. Barrys floral creativity was recorded by the award winning photographer David Lloyd for the book.

Barry Grey

The club's new season starts with a spectacular demonstration entitled "Dare to be Different" by Mildred Stafford, a UK National & International Floral demonstrator on Thursday 22nd September starting at 3pm. The demonstration lasts for about 2 hours and whether you are a novice or pro you will definately pick up some tips and find the creations being constructed fascinating to watch.... you never know, you may even be lucky enough to win one!
If you would like to find out more about the club call Sue on 966 986 350 or 610 927 227 where she will be delighted to speak with you and tell you more about the club and its exciting agenda for this year.

Xmas comes to Benidorm!

Shopping at Iceland in Benidorm yesterday - please bear in mind it is mid September, I was astonished to see the first of the Xmas products being put out.... and I thought that it only happened in the UK! Usually Harrods have a big launch of their Xmas shop in the middle of Summer.

Xmas goodies ... click on pic to get it full size & see whats in!

Next week I bet the crackers and Xmas pudding will be out. So, if you want to make sure that you don't miss out on your advent calendars head down to Iceland!!!! If I bought one now it would either melt with this heat or I would have forgotten where I'd put it by the time December came .....
The Spanish do not adhere to the commercialisation of Xmas like they do in the UK.They celebrate with family on 24th Decemeber, Xmas Eve with a special family meal, usually consisting of prawns and fish - and children get presents on 6th January, which is the 3 Kings. Here in Spain they tend to celebrate the true meaning of Xmas whereas to me at least it seems the Brits are obsessed with how much they can spend of presents, food and drink.

Tapas evening in La Nucia, near Benidorm.

On Saturday 17th Septemebr at 8pm onwards there will be a "Tapas taster" in La Nucia. La Penya El Drac, in conjunction with the Town Hall have organised a special event to raise funds for next years August fiesta's.... and they'll need plenty as we all know how the Spanish like their celebrations and fireworks!

La Ermita de San Rafael in La Nucia

7 local  bars and restaurants are taking part in this special event and charging a nominal 2€ for a tapas and small beer. The event will be held at the "Ermita San Rafael" which is a little chapel situated on the road running behind the Mas y Mas supermarket on the main street of La Nucia town centre and opposite the new specialist medical centre.It is NOT the Mas y Mas on the San Rafael urbanisation on the boarder of Alfaz. Set in beautiful grounds each of the participating restaurants will bring their specialities to the grounds where you will be able to buy and try. Some of the tapas include meatballs, squid in garlic, meat in a gourmet sauce, rustic salad and others. This is a  new venture for fundraising and depending on the turnout may be repeated.

Flying to Benidorm on Ryanair ..... read on!

Ryanair, not a company normally associated with fairness or good customer service and already the "King of Added Fees" is at it again! Not one to sherk the limelight for too long they have announced that as of 1st November only those who pay with its new "Ryanair Cash Passport prepaid Mastercard" will avoid the compulsory £6 per journey "administration fee" - or debit card charge to you and me. I think that they work on the principle that there is no such thing as bad publicity!
The controversial budget airline announced plans to launch its own pre-paid debit card as from 4th October and only customers who book with this card after 1st November will avoid the extra charges ... however, its not as clearcut as it sounds. (The card costs £6 too) You will still have to pay the fee at the time of booking but will be "reimbursted with a £6 Ryanair travel voucher" which you can redeem on your next booking. Also, if you read the numerous T&C (terms and conditions) it states there is a minimum loading of £150; 5.7% on non sterling purchases;  A £2.50 monthly inactivity fee debited from your card if it has not been used for 6 months; £2 fee for using the card at an ATM; 50p charge for all transactions after April 2012;
It somehow appears that just as the OFT (Office of Fair Trading) announce a new regulation, such as outlawing  fees on debit card transactions, Ryanair manage to do its utmost to do the opposite. Loyal passengers who first got Electron cards so that they could avoid the fees were then forced to switch to pre-paid Mastercards and are now being asked to change yet again. Its a wonder that they have any customers left. In effect you are still paying the fee as they are forcing you to re-book with the company to use the voucher. I saw in the papers this week that Sainsbury's were issuing vouchers to price match competitors and that Tesco were advertising that they would accept them too .... wonder if Easyjet will latch onto the idea and accept them to lure customers away?

 Will they still have queues like this post Nov ?

Many passengers have expressed dismay at yet another change to the rules by Mr O'Leary. One was quoted as saying "I'd rather crawl to my destination than fly with Ryanir. This isn't snobbery just a demand that they respect their customers" and anothet said "Vote with your wallets; if everyone stops flying with Ryanair they will be forced to mend their ways". If only it was that simple ... unfortunately for some it is the only airline that flies from their local regional airport so they have no other choice - its these passengers that I feel sorry for.
Oh well, one day Mr O'Leary will have his Ratner moment .... maybe its sooner than he thinks! For those to young to remember google it!

Street lights dim in Benidorm.

Levante beach

Benidorm Town Hall has proposed a plan to reduce street lighting in the town by 30% and thereby saving the taxpayer around 400,000 euro's per year. Some of the proposals have already been put into effect, such as replacing standard light bulbs with low energy ones.

However, the one that most visitors will probably notice is the plan to reduce 50% of the lighting along the beaches and promenade. I'm not too sure how they will do this - perhaps light only every other bulb ? Also listed in the proposal is to reduce the amount of "ornamental" lighting - such as lighting up vegetation and palm trees.

More controversial will be the plans to reduce selective street lighting after midnight. In some areas of the town there are 2 sets of street light; one set illuminating the pavement and an additional set to illuminate the bike lane which runs alongside it. In such instances it is proposed to switch off the bike lane lights leaving only the main street lights on.

Over the Summer the Town Hall  did their bit by switching off the entire interior lighting for a month after midnight - this should probably remain ... I hardly think that anyone would be inside plus it really is a waste of energy to light up that huge building all night.
Councillor for the Environment Jose Marcet also stated that they had had negociated significant savings on the kilowatt rates charged by Iberdrola - down from 25.303 per kw to 19.34 per kw.
Other planned measures are the installation of solar panels on Town Hall and municipal sports centres.

Traffic lights on the N332 and Alfaz

Perhaps Alfaz Town Hall should take note ..... the "temporary" traffic lights at the Alfaz juction with the N332 could do with being switched off at night. I have waited at them at 2am with nothing obviously coming for miles and waiting for 5 minutes before they change just long enough to allow 3 cars through - they obviously changed the timing sequence from the daytime.

I was very tempted to just drive through but though it would be just my luck that a Guardia Civil car would be hiding somewhere specially there to catch someone like me! These "temporary" lights cost 60,000 euro's per year !!!! For half of that I would personally stand there and direct the traffic! Can someone pass the message onto Vicente - mayor of Alfaz.

Relevant articles
Benidorm maintenance dept paralyzed by debt

Weekend cricket in Albir, near Benidorm.

Team in action....

Sporting Alfas Cricket Club Sporting Alfas 1st X1 225 for 4 beat Glenrothes CC 222 for 8

Sporting Alfas CC play many touring sides a season and this week we entertained Glenrothes and Four Oaks two teams joining forces to face the mighty SACC firsts.
Asking the visitors to set a total gave Captain Laundon great satisfaction, as his team kept the opposition down to 222 although 9 players had a bowl, proofing the depth SACC have when all are available, Pennick(5-14-1) opened up and removed Hopcroft(0) second ball well caught by Howe in the slips. Fletcher(5-31-2) at the other end enjoyed his spell with a mixture of unplayable and wicket taking deliveries, Lupson and Muñoz catching. Crompton(8-30-3) was the pick of the bowlers bowling 2 and Pennick, now wicket keeper, catching the other.
Taylor (6-21-1)was as ever super although taking only 1 Nadeem holding on to a catch at square leg.Muñoz(2-17-1) started as though he would finish off the tail but after a great caught and bowled fell rapidly away. Wasim (5-32-0) looked happy to be back playing after a self imposed exile. Nadeem(4-29-0) bowled fiercly with out any luck. Last bowler was Spencer (3-22-0) returning from injury and giving the ball a tweak. 222 from 40 well executed overs.
Pennick was on a mission to proof that one man can play in all positions raced along to 37 before giving away his scalp, Spencer on 25 fell next ball chasing a wide one and being caught at point. Nadeem and Howe came together and put SACC in the driving seat both reaching 50´s and giving away their wickets.
Wasim and Crompton saw the home side to a deserved victory with 8+ overs to spare.

Inside club house with visiting sides memorabilia

It was announced over the Weekend that Mr Graham Howe, a long standing supporter of cricket at Sporting Alfas Cricket Club, had taken the highest position in Spanish Cricket, Manager of the national team who play in the ICC division 2. 
He will along with coach Bobby Dennings be asking players to support him and take Spain into Division 1. 
Sporting Alfas CC wish Graham all the best in the next stage of his career.
SACC welcome both players and cricket lovers at the Woodbridge Oval in Albir. further info please call  Kevin on 637 120 660..

Elvis comes to Benidorm.

Tiki Beach Bar on the Levante

If you happen to be walking along the Levante beach yesterday lunchtime you would have been intrigued by the huge crowd assembled out the Tiki Beach bar ... well either the crowd or the sight of the Viva Television crew ready with cameras! You could barely walk past on the road let alone the promenade - and the reason for all the excitement .... Elvis was in town! Simon Patrick, probably the best Elvis impersonator in Europe was at the Tiki Beach Bar to promote next years Elvis Festival in the town.

Flashmob and audience members joining in

I spoke to Peter Phillips,organiser and promoter of the hugely successful annual Elvis Festival in PorthCawl Wales (a seaside town located between Cardiff and Swansea) who organised this years event at the Melia Hotel back in April. He was delighted at the turnout and promises that next years 3 day festival, planned for 30th & 31st March and 1st April (Fri,Sat & Sun) will be even bigger and better. He was over the moon that Simon Patrick was able to come and do some Elvis songs and promote the forthcoming event. Harriet and Lucy aka "Mills & Boon" who are backing session singers to Elvis were also on hand to accompany Simon.  There was even a "flash-mob" organised by Gill Cameron, a local

Elvis with Mills & Boon backing singers

Rumba instructor who together with members of her classes choreographed a routine to "Viva Las Vegas" which had everyone applauding and even joining in. The Viva television cameras rolled as everyone joined in the spontaneous fun and an edited version will be available to download on YouTube by the end of this week!

Me and Elvis!

It was an amazing site and even the local police were stopping to do a double take as Simon is the most amazing look and sound alike of a young Elvis. Whether you are an Elvis fan or not you couldn't but help join in  with the lyrics and sway to the beat .... it really is contagious! I'm certainly looking forward to the festival next year after that short taster.

For details on the event go to the website http://elvisinbenidorm.com or email askelvis@elvisinbenidorm.com

Proposed new "Dog Law" for Benidorm residents

Doggy bag dispenser in Alfaz

The Mayor of Benidorm, Augustin Navarro has proposed the introduction of a compulsory annual dog license in the town. It is estimated that the fee will be between 15 - 20 euro's and revenue collected from it will be used soley for the purpose of cleaning the streets of dog mess.
All owners must register their dogs before 31st December 2011 and that as of 1st January 2012 any owners who have NOT registered their dogs will face a fine ranging between 600 - 6000 euros!
The revenue collected will also finance a new "Green Patrol" - these will be dedicated patrols which will have the following responsibilities to catch offenders;
- Ensure that owners pick up the any excretment that their dogs have made.
- Ensure that owners have registered their dogs.

 Prior to the elections the residents of Benidorm were asked to list their main concerns, and dog fouling came pretty high up on the list. Navarro has obviously listened to his constituants - which must be a first for Spain!

Taking a dog for a walk along Levante beach

The mayor has proposed that the failure for owners to pick up after their dogs have fouled the street to be re-classified as a "very serious" offence and to carry a fine of between 6000 - 12,000 euro's- the maximum being enforced for persistant offenders! However, he has also promised to install 3 specific fenced areas where dogs can run and exercise in Rincon de Loix, La Cala and Imalsa-Foietes prior to the the new law being introduced.
The town has already installed vending machines with free plastic bags to collect the dog mess and that the revenue raised from the dog licenses will enable more machines to be installed. Alfaz and Albir already have these installed around the town which also incorporate diposal bins for the collected mess. I bet that other Town Halls will be watching closely to see the success of this enforcement with the aim of extending to their vicinities.

Ex-Pat Social Club in Albir, Nr Benidorm

Europe Day on 8th May - organised by Alfaz Town Hall

"Hippy Night" - one of the themed nights

The "Companians" Club in Albir will be reconvening after the Summer break next week - first meeting is Tuesday 13th September. Membership will be open for any new people wishing to join.  They are an English speaking social club which meet every Tuesday morning from 10.30am onwards in Albir Gardens (on the No 10 bus route).

Membership is free for any residents living here in Spain for over 6 months of the year - many of the members go back over the Summer as it is too hot for them here. It is certainly an ideal
place to meet fellow Brits - especially if you are new to Spain.  There is a raffle and bingo on alternate weeks and they also produce a fortnightly newsletter informing members of all events happening over the upcoming 2 weeks. They also run a loyalty card scheme which entitles loyalty card holders to discounts at various local outlets, services, bars & restaurants.

Tuesday lunch out

There is certainly something for everyone at the club. Amongst others, they have a popular walking club every Friday; Petanca on a Monday; Whist Drive evening; and monthly themed nights with entertainment  They also organise day trips -they have one planned to Alicante in September and even some short excursions across Spain. Recents ones included  a 4 night trip to "The White Villages" and a 3 night trip to Seville.

However, the main event they are working up to is a huge ball in October at El Canor in Teulada with the "Romy Baker Big Band" providing the evenings entertainment - its certainly an occasion to get out the ball gowns and black ties! There is even a cruise planned for next year... so you certainly won't be short of things to do!

Following the weekly Tuesday meeting there is always a lunch out at one of the local restaurants.
If you wish to join the club just turn up on Tuesday morning - Barbara Banks, President will be delighted to welcome you .... unlike most Spanish establishments no paperwork or documents are required!
For more information have a look at the club website http://www.companians.org

Teatro Del Sol opens in La Nucia.

Yesterday, Wednesday 7th September saw the inauguration of a brand new Performing Arts Centre in Bello Horizonte. The opening was officiated by the Deputy Mayor of La Nucia, Councillor of Culture and Foreign Residents Bart Gommans and Director of the Auditorium in La Nucia Frances Simpere. There was a huge turnout of well wishers, friends, business collegues and choir members ensuring that the afternoon was a success - and all were welcomed with a glass of champagne.
Rob Barendsma, Director of the Centre has a long and successful track record directing many productions which have been performed at the Auditorium in La Nucia, inparticular the "Friday Choir" which has over 120 singers of various nationalities.

Bart Gommans wishing Rob success.

Rob's background is in performing arts. He has a music degree which he attained in Holland then went on to study for a dance and acting degree in Germany. Fed up with life in Holland he took a year out and went travelling around Europe, finally settling on Spain to be his new home. His first project here was with a group of amatuers some 8 years ago which he found challenging but extremely rewarding. He then set up the Friday Choir - so named because rehersals were every Friday! However, rehersals will now be on Thursdays as the pianist accompanying the choir has other commitments ... but they don't plan on re-naming. Rob welcomes new members of any ability to the rehersals every Thursday afternoon starting at 15.30pm. The next performance they are working towards is a Xmas Concert on 11th December at the Auditorium in La Nucia accompanied by the La Nucia Orchestra. Going by the past concerts it is bound be a huge success.
Another project that Rob is working on, together with Joanne Venet - director of DramaKidz is a production of the "Sound of Music" which will be on at the Auditorium on 27th, 28th & 29th January 2012. They held auditions recently for the cast and were amazed at the quality of talent. Infact, the Von Trapp family are actually a real family - well almost. The Captain, Maria and 3 of the children are a real life family! Rob and Joanne were stunned when the heard them singing - and the Captain can actually play a guitar too - doesn't get any better really. They are still looking for more nuns so if any budding actresses are about contact Joanne on 679 646 145. Joanne teaches drama to children and adults at Drama Kidz and being an actress herself can certainly give you some useful advice.

Me with Rob and Frank at the successful opening

Rob is also starting "The Glee Club"  to teach singing and dancing to all. Groups will be divided into juniors, for age 10-14 and then 15 & overs and classes will be held at the new Teatro del Sol on Friday evenings. For further information contact Rob on 616 703 669 or email him: rob.tds@gmail.com