december 2009

36
DUNNES STORES ALWAYS BETTER VALUE

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Costa Connection Christmas Issue

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DUNNES STORESALWAYS BETTER VALUE

This Christmas

make it

magic...

DUNNES STORESALWAYS BETTER VALUE

Mijas Costa Hiper Andalucia Fuengirola Centro Las RampasMalaga Centro Comercial Larios

Velez Malaga Centro Comercial El IngenioCoin Centro Comercial La Trocha

Half PriceChildrens Toys

While Stocks Last

ORGANISED BY THE MIJAS TOWN

HALL FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN.

Age Care Association

Help desk every Wednesday 10 am to 12.30 pm

Manila Bar, Los Boliches. Help lines 691 761 088

FUENSOCIALIn aid of Handicapped children,

Working hard to create better facilities and Day Centres

if you wish to support this charity telephone

for more information.

Please call 952 473 345

For support in

Please TelephoneMati 952 464 426

ALZHEIMERS

A.D.I.M.I.

For further informationPlease call Paqui 615 196 378

Breast Cancer CharityWe have now managed to raise enough

money for the transportation and it is now up and running if anybody would like

more information call

Lorraine 670 004 422

Royal British Legion

Every Monday and Thursday at Manila Bar, Los Boliches on

Mondays and at Reginas Bar, Fuengirola Port on Thursdays.

Tel. 952 468 106

FUNDACION

CIUDADOS DEL CANCER CARE HOSPICE

DUNNES STORES

The Fuengirola Charity Shop, Monday to Saturday from 10:00h to 13:00h.

The Good Companions Club, raises funds for CUDECA and meets every

Tuesday at 11.30 am in Manila Bar, Los Boliches. Telephone 952494730

Lions Club La Cala. Meet second & fourth Wednesday every month. Ole Restaurant, Los Claveles,

La Cala at 6pm Tel.952 494 323

THE MIJAS LA CALA LIONS CLUB

30

Aries Mar 21 - April 20

Taurus April 21 - May 21

Gemini May 22 - June 21

Cancer June 22 - July 23

Leo July 24 - Aug 23

Virgo Aug 24 - Sep 23

Libra Sep 24 - Oct 23

Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 22

Sagittarius Nov 23 - Dec 22

Capricorn Dec 23 - Jan 20

Aquarius Jan 21 - Feb 19

Pisces Feb 20 - Mar 20

You are looking forward to Christmas. With merriment, lights and the music, but if you don't pay that electricity bill you will be having more than one silent night.

You have the tree, you have the lights you've bought the presents. The only thing missing on the Costa is the snow. Well stop using the anti dandruff shampoo and we will all have a white Christmas.

You're in two minds weather to go to that fancy dress party or not. Well, if you go as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, then you can always change your mind later.

Your soft nature means you are put upon at times. Christmas is no exception as when you have a drink your legs will turn to jelly and you will get sat on.

There is something in the air that brings you romance this month. Your lover treats you to a hot air balloon ride then you fall madly, beware!

You are a brilliant judge of characters but beware of the fairy you meet at a fancy dress party, he's just flirting with you.

You love company, so a party invitation is on the cards. Trouble is, you forget to pick up the card that had the address where the party is on it.

You're not a good mixer. Many say that you are a jerk. Some say you are too slow, but lots of your friends say that, you are actually a great cocktail mixer!

You are on the ladder to success, tread carefully as a rusty nail may give, tear your sock, scratch your leg, but then you fall into the arms of your dream date. See, success!

You go ice skating in fashion. One night when you are out and wearing designer jeans you spill your drink and go skidding across the bar floor on an ice cube.

You are a very spiritual person that's why you love Christmas. Just go steady on the drinks cabinet this year and your spirit will remain intact.

You love the outer space and things like that. That's a good thing as you will lock yourself out of your house and end up sleeping in your car parking space.

Mijas Golf

Mc Donalds

BP

N340

La Hacienda C

omplex

Fuengirola

Ahlaurin

La Cala

St. Anthony’sCollege

Timber Buildings

DiscountWarehouse

Just past the Tamisa Golf HotelCno. de Coin Hacienda de Mijas Golf

Tel 952 666 237

LAVACASAS.L.LAVACASAS.L.

LAVACASALAVACASA

DRY CLEANING - LAUNDRYSPECIALISTS IN LEATHER

OPEN From 9.30am to 7pmSaturdays from 10am to 2pm

DRY CLEANING - LAUNDRYSPECIALISTS IN LEATHER

Road Closed

10% Off Rugs & Curtains

ITV 1 STOP SHOP

ITV due? Call usWe make the appointment

WE CAN COLLECT

WE RETURN PASSED

WE CHECK & PRESENT

952 466 648

The Tamisa Hotel

Co

in R

oa

d

Malaga Marbella

DUNNESStores

RoadNOW OPEN

La Cala Hills

KM 1.9 on the left after Motorway Cars A

-70

53

Thurs at 7.30

20% Off Leathers

Mon to Fri10 - 13.30. 17 - 20.30. Sat. 11 - 13

Camino de Coin,

La Hacienda,

Mijas Golf

952 492 646662 303 033

Have Fun Get Fit & Learn to Tap Dance

St. Anthony’s College, Camino de Coin

Mijas Golf. Opp. La Cala Hills

For further information

Tel. 695 155 085

Every Thursday at 7.30

Opening Hours:12pm to 1amSunday Hours - 5pm to 1am

Just past the Tamisa Golf Hotel Cno. de Coin Hacienda de Mijas Golf

Cafeteria - Bar

HAPPY HOUR 7PM - 8PM

HAPPY HOUR 7PM - 8PM

FOOD EAT IN OR TAKEAWAY

Pizzas Curries Hot Dogs Fish & Chips Bagets Hamburgers

Tel. 952 492 649

Menu of the DayMonday to Saturday

12,30 pm to 5,00 pmDrinks to choose from-1 Half Lager 1 Water 1 Soft Drink

1 Glass of WineMake your choice from -

Chilli & Chips or Rice

Chicken Curry & Chips or Rice

Fish & chipsBurger & Chips or Salad

Hot Dog & Chips or Salad

Spaghetti Fungi or Pesto

Desserts to choose from -CoffeeIce CreamApple Cake

INTERNET

Visit our website www.mon2sun.es

Cudeca Cancer Care Hospice once again celebrates Light a Light in memory of our loved ones on Friday 11th December at 6.00 p.m. at the Hospice Centre.

Light a Light is a special tribute to a loved one when a light and candle is dedicated to them for a minimum donation of €10. The Hospice building is decorated with lights which are switched on by our President and Founder, Joan Hunt O.B.E., and every one of those lights is in memory of someone special. On this special evening, we will enjoy listening to choirs singing Christmas Carols and the wonderful sound of Bell Ringers. There will also be a raffle and we can enjoy eating home made cakes and other savoury delights. Further items on sale will be Cudeca's popular Christmas Cards, hand crafted by patients and volunteers, the 2010 Calendars and the "El Gordo" Lottery tickets. Everyone is welcome to join us for this poignant evening. Your participation will help us to continue offering our "Special Kind of Caring" to those who need it most. Cudeca Cancer care Hospice, created in 1992, is a self-funding charity and non-Governmental organisation which has cared for more than 5.600 patients via the following care programmes; Home Care, External Consultations, Rehabilitation, Psycho-Social attention, Information, Counselling, Day Care Centre and In-patient Unit. All the cost-free care provided is for both the patient and the family.

LIGHT A LIGHTDate: Friday, 11th of December Time: 6 p.m.Place: Cudeca Centre Avd. del Cosmos s/n, 29631 Arroyo de la Miel Tlf.: 952 5649 10 www.cudeca.org

Cudeca Light a Light Celebration

For further detailstelephone

695 155 085or

616 061 553or email for a price list

[email protected]

For further detailstelephone

695 155 085or

616 061 553or email for a price list

[email protected]

26

The Costa Connection Magazine can now offer high quality full colour printing at an affordable price. As businesses need to advertise their services more than ever, we are offering free artwork, fast turn round and quality to show your business at it best. From Business Cards to Brouchures

just ring

for a quote today

616 061 553

ConnectionConnectionT h e P r i n tT h e P r i n t

For all your insurance needs,

do it the right way.

Motor insurance for UK

and Spanish plates, home and contents, health

insurance, pet, travel and commercial insurance.

Established on the coast for over 7 years

thousands of satisfied customers

New Address CC. Las Postas

Local 9 Calahonda

29649 Mijas Costa

Tel. 952 934 963 or go on line

www.rightwaysl.com

Right way Insurance...

Insuring you, your

family and your

belongings

the right way

GO GREEN

IN THE MODERN WORLD,

TRADITIONAL

BUILDING HAS DIED

GO GREEN GO GREEN

GO GREEN

WITH MODERN TECHNOLOGY AND

PRODUCTS AND PROTECT THE PLANET FOR OUR

DESCENDENTS.

REDUCE THE CO2 EMISSIONS, SHRINK THE CARBON FOOTPRINT AND SAVE

MONEY IN THE PROCESS.

· ICF polystyrene & concrete structure is as fireproof, hurricane proof, and

earthquake proof as you can get AND it reduces energy bills by up to 40%.

· UV reflecting paints and waterproof coatings.

· Double / Triple glazing. Solar panels for water and power. Domestic wind generators. Insulated light-weight

roofing.

To on your next build call...

661 235 149

RIP

TRADITIONAL

BUILDING

PADS NEW YEARS DAY4th SPONSORED SWIM

FRIDAY JANUARY 1st, 2010

P.A.D. IS A REGISTERED CHARITY WITH NO OFFICIAL FUNDING RE-HOMING

ABANDONED DOGS & CATS

PLACE:- CARIBBEAN BAR CARVAJAL

TIME:- 1.30 CHECK IN & PHOTOS 2.00 SWIM START

DRINKS AVAILABLE, TEAS & COFFEES P.A.D. B.B.Q. RAFFLE & AUCTION

Should you wish to sponsor or take part please call Stacey for forms & details

TEL: 609 572 407

Saturday12th December Everyone is welcome.

Venue: El Potro Restaurant, Urb. La Sierrezuela, Mijas Costa.

Price: 25€ for 3 courses including 1/2 bottle of wine.Time: 7:30pm til late.

Live music with Lindsey Rose To reserve a table or for more information, contact:

Pat Colmen on 620 354 885 or reserve your place with Restaurant El Potro direct on 952 470 284.

F O U N D AT I O N F O R A B A N D O N E D A N D MISTREATED ANIMALSF.A.M.A. is a foundation set up and funded sole ly by voluntary contr ibut ions to provide an acceptable standard of life to the

abandoned animals whilst in its care: A clean and safe living environment - A regular and nutritional diet - Veterinary care when needed.To ensure that ALL adopted animals comply with current legislation: Spaying / Castration, micro chipping, vaccinations etc. To match (via adoption) animals with suitable owners. To create a better awareness and understanding of the needs of domestic animals in society through visits to local schools etc.The idea of F.A.M.A. was originally conceived by Pat Coleman and Vet Javier Delgado Sanchez in the summer of 2003. The bringing together of a small group of dedicated like-minded individuals saw the formation of what is now the F.A.M.A. committee. And in January 2004 the birth of the F.A.M.A. Foundation based at the CAN.ES veterinary clinic and boarding kennels in Mijas Costa.Website: www.f-a-m-a.netContact: Pat Coleman. Mobile: 620 354 885.

This is Arthur. He is a Labrador of approx. 8 years. He was found wandering on the road. He is very well house trained and has a lovely, calm nature. He just wants a quiet life now and to potter around in a home.

If you are interested in Arthur, please contact Pat Coleman on: 620 354 885

F.A.M.A Christmas Dinner

24

FOR DETAILS OF THESE CARS CALL TODAY ON

952 46 80 49 / 46 14 73www.motorwaycars.com

Cno. Coin s/n-29649 Mijas Costa

FORD FOCUS 1.6 I TREND 100CV 30.09.2008

12.013KMS 12.000€

FORD FOCUS C-MAX 1.8 TDCI GHIA 115CV

21.12.2006 21.564KMS 12.000€

BMW X5 3.0D 182cv 14.05.2003 50.064kms

32.000€

OPEL VIVARO 2.5 CDTI 145cv 3.955KMS

17.10.2007 17.000 €

CITROEN BERLINGO 1.6 I SX PLUS 100cv

02.2005 91.800kms 6.800€

ROVER 216 SI 1.6 18.03.1999 68.064KMS

110CV 4.500€

TOYOTA COROLLA 2.0 4D 01.2006 85.995KMS 115CV Was 9.800€

NOW 8.800€

PEUGEOT 206 2.0 GTI 21/03/2002 125.347KMS

136CV 5.500€

A l l C l a s s i c C a r s We l c o m ea s r e c o m m e n d e d b y t h e C l a s s i c C a r C l u b o f An d a l u c i a

MASSIVE DISCOUNTS

ON YOUR CLUTCH & BRAKE PARTS.

95% OF VEHICLES

SAME DAY SERVICE

ALL CLUTCHES ARE GUARANTEED

FOR ONE YEAR OR 30,000 KM.

WE ACCEPT ALL

MAJOR CREDIT CARDS.

AUTO ELECTRICAL &

MECHANICAL ENGINEERS

ENGINE & GEAR BOX REBUILDS

AIR CONDITIONING SPECIALISTS

- DRIVE IN CHILL OUT

VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC &

FUEL INJECTION SPECIALISTS

ITV SERVICING, TIMING BELTS

We have now moved next to ROALI

Open9.00 - 14.00 16.00 - 20.00

Saturdays 9.00 - 13.30

Tel. 952 66 70 97 Tel./Fax. 952 58 15 32

AutoRecambiosZafraAvda. De Los Lirios, No.15a Las Lagunas (Mijas Costa)

Recambios

EuroMarkets

Avda. De Los Lirios

N340

Las Lagunas

AutoRecambiosZafra

Calle Azucena

uto Recambios ZAFRA is a shop that supplies parts for all models of cars which is a god send to Aall those who wish to lovingly repair their motor

themselves or merely accessories it. Paco and his staff will give expert advice and service as both Spanish and English staff are employed there to help you. This amazingly abundant store offers everything from a windscreen wiper to wheel nuts, and all at reasonable prices. You will find Auto Recambios ZAFRA on Avenida De Los Lirios which is the long hilly road traveling upwards from Euromarket. Turn right when you exit Euromarket, carry on straight across the small roundabout at the top, and follow the road for approximately 300 meters until you see the red signage, ARZ Auto Recambios ZAFRA on the left hand side corner of Calle Azucena. It is well worth a visit to see what is in store. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 9.00am to 14.00pm and from 16.00pm to 20.00. Saturday 9.00am to 13.30pm. Tel. 952 66 70 97.

Car Care Complete

Classic Car Club of Andalucia invited to Ascari

The Ultimate Driving Experience Just imagine being invited to drive several laps of the fabulous Ascari Race Circuit in your own classic car. Well, that's just what members of the Classic Car Club of Andalucia experienced recently. The event was appropriately named 'Ancient meets Modern' and it captured the imagination of the whole club.

Ascari, opened in 2003 at a cost of over €56 million, is considered the world's ultimate private race circuit and retreat, conceived from an unreserved passion for motor sport. It is first and foremost a drivers club where like minded people united by their enthusiasm for fast cars, speed and racing can safely enjoy the driving experience at the very best location available.

Klaas Zwart, the owner and creator of Ascari and one of racing's great characters, had the vision to develop the ultimate private race circuit. Situated to the north of Ronda the circuit is 5.4 kms long. The whole complex has all the facilities of a commercial circuit; pits, pace cars, mechanics, marshals, fire fighters and medical support etc. The organisers of this 'once in a lifetime' event, Classic Club of Andalucia members Andreas and Anton Ullstein together with Nicky & Richard Masters, put together a full days event, including a r egu la r i ty run , a conducted tour of the Royal Library and Bull Ring in Ronda and a superb lunch at the historic Restaurant Jerez. But of course the highlight of the day for members was without doubt, racing at Ascari!

The interest from club members was remarkable, with no fewer that 45 classic cars participating in the experience. The cars were placed in four different groups, according to the year of manufacture. Each group in turn, revved up their cars and headed along the pit-straight and onto the famous circuit with their hearts pounding in anticipation of what was to come!

In no time at all the cars were on the track following the Ascari pace car accelerating to speeds of 130kph, along straights, through chicanes, around steep banked curves and sharp corners. Some really caught the racing bug, chasing the pace car and leaving most of the other classic cars far behind! Everyone enjoyed the challenge and most were reluctant to leave the circuit.

If you own a classic car here in Spain and would like more information about the Classic Car Club of Andalucia then take a look at the website www.cccandalucia.com Alternatively, contact Club Secretary Linda at [email protected]

20

23

Soon to be available

in bookshops

on the coast.

Order yours now.

Fiestas and Siestas Miles Apart

is published by Strategic Book Publishing

The book is available from www.bookdepository.co.uk

Alan can be contacted at [email protected]

19

had filled up on the barbecue, so politely turned it down. I looked around and wondered where they all put it; not one of them had an ounce of fat on him. Once the paella was gone, the younger men split up into two smaller groups and a couple of card schools were underway. I looked on with curiosity, as the playing cards used were different than what we were familiar with. Old Fernando from the bar saw me watching and shook his head slowly from side to side. I then realised why; each player was throwing a fifty euro note on the table and he didn't want me drawn in. I returned a smile and a similar slow shake of the head. An hour later the barbecue was fired up again. Along with this were mountains of bread and cheese. I asked young Fernando where the toilet was. His reply was to hold out an arm, turn full circle and say, "El campo." The countryside. Lee Van Cleef pulled up in his large 4-wheel drive Toyota; I hadn't realized he had gone anywhere. He got out of the car, walked towards me, and held up a bottle of Bacardi in one hand and a pig's leg in the other. "Allaaan for you." I was desperately hoping he meant the drink and not the limb. The pig's leg, known throughout Spain as 'Jamon Serrano', or cured ham, is to be found everywhere. It's an acquired taste that I'm slowly getting used to, much better if you remove all the fat. The leg can be left hanging for years before eating-definitely not one for the veggies. Everybody was now on the shorts and as the drink kicked in the conversations increased in volume. When I asked what a Hombre Festival actually was, it was explained that one of the young men was to be married. I then realised this was the equivalent of a British stag do. As the drink and food was still being passed around I wondered who was picking up the bill. As if reading my mind, a young man appeared in front of me with what looked like a list of the names of those present. "Ten euros if you please," he said. I'd presumed that this was how today's event was to be financed. Over his shoulder I could see old Fernando giving me that same slow shake of the head. "What is it for?" I asked. "Las chicas." The girls. Now this was something else that had surprised me. Throughout Southern Spain you will often come across buildings in the middle of nowhere, or at the side of the motorway called 'Clubs'. Basically these are brothels and they are as common as McDonald's. (I must remember to explain this to the girls when they go clubbing over here.) It would appear from my young friend that it's not only the quantity that they have in common with McDonalds. The clubs also do 'take-aways'. Please notice I could have made the comparison to Kentucky's with some smutty reference to preferring leg to breast but I like to think I'm above all that. Now I'm not sure how the divorce courts work here in Spain but handing over ten euros to this young man would surely put me on a journey to finding out. "No, thank you." I said and Hugh shook his head to the young man, not wanting to have anything to do with it. I also noticed that the older members of the group had sloped off, obviously aware of what was coming next. The young lad looked a little surprised. He put his hand over his eyes and said. "You no pay, you no look." I put one hand over my eyes and the other over my genitals and said, "Me no want anything." Finding this

amusing the young man laughed and went off to share the joke with his friends. Hugh and I took this as our cue to leave and cadged a lift back to the village with somebody else who had both the age and wisdom to recognise which side of his bread was buttered.

I came home just as Heather was leaving for her meeting with the village females at the bar. "I thought you'd gone for two days," she said. When I explained my reason for the early departure she was quite taken back. Not a very good reflection on her opinion of me, I think. She was gracious enough to invite me to accompany her to the bar. We arrived to find it full of all the Hombre Festival's rejects, and of course some of their better halves. One of the couples we had been speaking to the previous night introduced us to their daughter, who was up from Malaga for a couple of days. Her father had been with us at the Hombre festival just moments before. Now he sat quietly with his wife, daughter, and son-in-law. His daughter had studied at Newcastle University in the UK and spoke perfect English-or as near as you can get with a Geordie twang. She explained that her husband had come up for the Hombre Festival as he had been at school with the young man who was to be married. He glanced across and gave me a knowing smile. The daughter added, "He is allowed to go for an hour." No guesses who wore the trousers in that house. She also added, "He doesn't know where it is so my father is going to take him." As I looked across at the father, I could see a minute raise of his eyebrows and a glint in his eye. I tried to explain to the daughter that an hour wouldn't really be long enough for him to catch up with his pals and get into the spirit of the occasion, plus the actual journey takes ten minutes each way. She thought for a while, turned to her husband, and said in Spanish, "you can go for two hours." Simultaneously both the father and son-in-law gave me a wink of thanks. We never saw them again that night.

Fiestas and Siestas Miles Apart is the humorous but true story of what happens when the Cuthbertson family

decides to sell everything (including the family business), load the family car, and move from England

to Spain……………………………………

Whilst Alan and Heather were making plans for the big move to Spain their daughters, Stacey and Ashlie,

suddenly announced their plans to go back-packing around Thailand and Australia for a year, their only

contact with them was via e-mail and texts.

In the Campo Whilst in the bar one night, Antonio (actually, from here on I'll call him Lee Van Cleef, because nearly every male in the village is called Antonio) patted me on the back and said in Spanish that he would pick me up tomorrow at my house at 12 o'clock. "¿Porqué?" Why? I asked. "¿Hombre festival!" he replied "¿Hombre festival?" I repeated. At this a group of men at the bar swivelled in their seats, raised their glasses, and cheered. "¡Hombre festival!" I agreed and asked if it would be okay for my Scottish friend, Hugh, to come along. "Si," said Lee Van Cleef, "Pero no-" He then pointed to the females around the table and shook his forefinger from side to side. "Looks like a man only do," I said to Heather, trying to hide a grin that was forcing its way out of the side of my mouth. "How long does it last?" I asked, turning back to Van Cleef. "Dos dias," 2 days, came the reply. Heather turned to one of the women at the table and asked, "What do the women do?" They all looked at each other in puzzlement, not because they didn't understand the question, it was just that nobody had ever asked it before. Heather's eyes scanned the ladies present, her forefinger pointing at the table in front of her, and she announced, "Mañana aqui, a las ocho." Here tomorrow 8pm. The gathered females smiled in agreement. It's amazing how bilingual Heather can become when the need arises.

Hugh and I waited with a combination of excitement and anticipation. I had neglected to tell him that the night before it had been requested that he wear a skirt. I think they meant his kilt but who the hell knows what a Hombre festival is? A rickety old car pulled up outside my house and

beeped its horn; we went outside and got in. The driver, a man, about seventy years old, I had never seen before. But his front seat passenger, a young man of about twenty, had been in the bar the previous night. We climbed into the back, the car was started and the young passenger turned up the stereo as loud as it would go. As the speakers were on the back sill, Hugh and I were immediately deafened, but the old man just carried on driving as though nothing had happened. We had no idea where we were going. The car cut across the country and down some isolated lanes. "Have you ever read 'The Story of Burning Man'? I asked Hugh, almost screaming to be heard. "No, why?" he yelled back. "Never mind." The book in question was one I had read some time ago but for some reason it had sprung to mind. It was about a man who had moved to a small village and was invited to the annual village party where a dummy was burnt on a bonfire, I can't remember why. During the burning the man had noticed the dummies eyes move just as the flames engulfed it. Apparently a visitor was sacrificed each year. The car turned down a track and into an olive grove. Out of nowhere appeared a large, white house. As the car stopped in the shade of one of the olive trees I asked, "Who lives here?" The old man driving turned off the engine, which also killed the stereo, turned and said, "It is Fernando's house but it is used only for fiestas." There was already about a dozen men milling about preparing drinks and food, and over the next hour more appeared until the total was near thirty. Sitting in a large circle in the shade of the house, we all drank beer whilst Hugh and I explained the differences between Spain and the UK, everything from house prices to opening hours. Their questions were endless. The barbecue was lit and various meats were passed around. Once again I had no idea what I was eating. I was sitting between the Fernandos; the elder would ask me a question, his son would translate it to a Spanish I could understand, I would think of the answer in English and translate it to Spanish for young Fernando, who would in turn tell his father what I had said. Although it sounds like a painful process it was in fact quite fun. I noticed that everybody else had changed from drinking beer to red wine. I pointed this out to Hugh, who said, "I'm staying on the beer." I was just about to agree when Lee Van Cleef approached us, took our glasses, poured out the contents and replaced it with red wine. I looked at Hugh, "I guess we are on the wine now." I happened to mention that we had renamed Antonio Lee Van Cleef due to their likeness and Hugh said, "That's funny, I was thinking that bloke over there looks like Russell Grant, the fortune teller." I laughed because I could see the resemblance straight away. Glancing across the table I nudged Hugh and said. "Who does he remind you of? I'll give you a clue: Paattttt." "Frank Butcher, from Eastenders." "Correct." This turned into a game we still play today.

Once the barbecue had finished somebody shouted, "The paella is ready!" We all got up and walked indoors. In the corner of one room was a pan that measured about four feet across on an open fire. Inside was a mixture of rice, chicken, and seafood. The locals were fighting over it. I

Fiestas and Siestas Miles Apart Fiestas and Siestas Miles Apart By

Alan Cuthbertson

18

he Mijas La Cala Lions picked the worst day in November to hold their Christmas Fayre. It rained most Tof the day but despite this little setback hundreds of

hardy folk turned up at the Tamisa Hotel to enjoy the spirit of Christmas. All the usual features were there including a giant tombola, a mammoth raffle and Father Christmas's grotto where kiddies of all ages met Santa and received a lovely present.Around 30 stalls were doing good business showing and selling many festive gifts making Christmas shopping so easy.John Peach and his staff at The Tamisa laid on a 2-sitting lunch enjoyed by a packed house and Dave Lee provided the entertainment.A final figure is not available going to press but it will not be far short of 2000 euros raised for local charities. The Mijas La Cala Lions 'pride' themselves in raising thousands of euros each year to help those in need. The Lions Charity Shop is in La Cala village so support it whenever you can. Good clothing, bric-a-brac, books and household goods are always needed to continue the excellent work carried out by manageress Rosemary Brabrook and her volunteers. The double store is open Monday to Saturday inclusive 10am to 2pm.

LIONS CHRISTMAS FAYRE Despite Rainy Sunday!

LIONS CHRISTMAS FAYRE

16 17

CALLING ALL GOLFERS by Frank Bowles

This courageous gent has found himself homeless after living in a mobile home for over 20 years.Local golfers are asked to support a special golf day to raise money to help John to establish himself in a new caravan on land supplied by a customer of Someplace Else, La Cala Hills.The Mijas La Cala Lions Diabetic Support Group will be involved on the day to ensure that pensioner John Gadd can continue to live a happy life in Mijas-Costa.

VENUE Santana Golf DATE Sunday 20th December

FORMAT Two-Ball Texas Scramble - Shotgun Start - 9.45am.

PRICE 60 euros per person to include green fee, shared buggy, coffee & bacon roll on arrival and fish & chip dinner at Someplace Else with prizes.

Please register now by calling Someplace Else on Tel: 952 492 207.

John Gadd Appeal

Email craig2511emsn.com

Under new management

Christmas Opening TimesChristmas Eve Open from 12noon

Christmas Day Open from 12noon till 3pmBoxing Day Open from 10am

New Years Eve Open from 10am till late.New Years Day Open from 12noon

Relax with Legendary New Years Day Brunch Open Daily from 9am till MidnightFood Served Daily 9am till 9pm

All Live Sports ShownSky, ESPN, Showtime

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Odos. E - Cigarette

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HAVE YOURSELF A

HEALTHY LITTLE CHRISTMAS

For Appointments please call 952-587-700 ext 28

HAIR AND BEAUTY SALON

Hair & Beauty

12

NEED A

Most Locking Systems Supplied & fitted

PLEASE BOOK YOUR TABLE ON

952 599 433

Champagne Cocktail and Canapés

Foie “Mi-Cuit” with Apple Mousse and Crispy Almond

Lobster Salad with Coral Sauce

Grilled Beef TournedosWith a Creamy Boletus and Truffle

Sauce

New Year’s Delights

The Twelve Good Luck GrapesWhite Wine “Gran Feudo” (Navarra)

Rosé Wine “Gran Feudo criado sobre Lias”Red Wine “Conde de la Salceda” (Rioja)

Champagne Taittinger,

and Dancing LIVE MUSIC with Sofia and Marlies & ClaudioPrice per Person 150 € (Children 60 €)

Open Bar

Menu

Now taking bookings forNEW YEAR’S EVE 2009

Welcome in 2010

SUNSHINE GOLF CENTRE Km 199 Ctra. N340/A7 La Cala de Mijas Tel:952 49 37 09 Fax:952 49 44 76Email: [email protected] OpeningHours: Mon - Fri 10.00 to 18.00 Sat 10.00 to 14.00 Sun. We are playing Golf

SUNSHINE GOLF - THE COSTA DEL SOL GOLF CENTRE

GOLF BALL

LOGO SERVICE

Call Us for Prices

48 Hours Serviceandalucia

SUNSHINE GOLF

Marbella 16 km. Wwww.sunshine-golf.com Fuengirola 8 km.La Cala de Mijas N340

11

We specialise in golf trophies but can supply any other sport or

pastime trophy. Please call in to see our range.

We have relocated to the lower sales floor in the Sunshine Golf

building at La Cala de Mijas

Gift Vouchersavailable

for Christmas

Welcome to theGolf ConnectionWelcome to theGolf ConnectionWelcome to theGolf Connection

he 5th La Cala GolfWorld Open played at the end of November at La Cala Resort, Mijas, Málaga attracted Tplayers from all over Europe. This 54-hole event is

unique in the region as the competitors play the three La Cala 18-hole courses: Campo America, Campo Asia and Campo Europa over three days. There is a real party atmosphere for the tournament with the pairings changing each day and this combined with the unique format and excellent weather, means many of the players now consider it a permanent fixture in their diaries. There was an increase in the number of Finnish and Spanish players this year in addition to golfers from all over the UK and Ireland, Russia, The Netherlands, Belgium, Scandinavia and France.The event was won by Alexy Vershinin. A native of Russia, he is based in Germany where he works for a Russian company. He only started to play golf three years ago when his wife told him to look for another sport as he was getting too old for ice-hockey. He described his victory as "a dream come true" and added, "we get three days of competition golf and an extra day's free round in good, sunny weather. The people who play in this event are very nice company and I really enjoyed it." As part of his prize he has been invited to

play the competition and stay in Hotel La Cala next year, free of charge.Presenting the prize, last year's winner Paul Gilsenan said he looks forwards to seeing the same faces at each staging of the event and to renewing friendships made through the competition. His brother Rory was runner-up: "This competition has absolutely everything. I come here every year with my brothers and friends and we get some good sunshine before winter sets in. The golf is fabulous, the hotel is fabulous and the competition is a big element for us. It keeps us focussed. It is lovely to make new friends and meet up with old ones. In fact, we look forward throughout the year to meeting up with all the players from the previous years.”La Cala's Director of Leisure is José Navas. "One of the reasons this competition is such a success is that we adapt it to meet the requests of the players. To increase further the social element, next year we will replace the practice day with a Texas Scramble. This will give the competitors a chance to play with even more people. We are also dropping the prices and we believe the package will be unbeatable for value and enjoyment."

La Cala Golf World Open attracts players from

all over Europe

10

Already in France, Denmark & Greece and now in Spain.

Family Business dating back to the 1700s.

Suppliers to the top London Hotels, Restaurants and No1

stores in Knightsbridge.Salmon caughtFreshly every

day in the Outer Hebrides and Faroes and then smoked for 18

to 20 hours to produce that special unique Scottish taste.

EEC Approved Kosher Licence.Stock flown in on a daily basis.

Sold at very competitive prices.Head Offoice in Riviera del Sol

Fresh Smoked Haddock also available.

Daily deliveries: 952 930 036 Mob: 617 932 263 / Email: [email protected]

Costa Salmon Imports

Suppliers of the Finest Scottish Smoked Salmon

ORGANIC

One Day Fish is a family business dating back to the 1700s when they started a smoke house on their own island in the Outer Hebrides.Since those very early days the company has now grown considerably and has a regular customer base of 1,300 deliveries weekly in the UK, which includes a delivery to Knightsbridge's number one store, and with wholesaler representation in Greece, Denmark and now Spain.One Day Fish operate from a 'State of the Art" plant which meets all the requirements of registration forEEC licenses together with a Kosher license. The Salmon is smoked daily and is caught off the coasts of the Outer Hebrides and Faroes.They do not hold stocks of fish as once caught it is immediately oak smoked for between 18 to 20 hours to produce the unique Scottish taste.

osta Salmon Costa Salmon are based in Riviera del Sol and are now importing this finest Scotch Csmoked salmon produced by One Day Fish in

the UK.

As well as Salmon, they also smoke fresh Haddock for the commercial industry, which is proving increasingly popular with hotels as a "healthy" breakfast option.Initially Costa Salmon will concentrate on the importation of superb quality reasonably priced smoked salmon which come packed in 100gram and 400gram or 1 kilo catering packs but will shortly expand their range to offer smoked Haddock and other products. Hotel El Oceano hosted a tasting day in which guests were able to sample this fine fish. The day was a great success and it was a perfect way to introduce quality food to those who expect the best. For more information contact Costa Salmon on 952 930 036

NOW AVAILABLE INIceland

Miraflores SupermarketCornish Pride Calypso

The Real Sausage Company Fuengirola

Costaless Benavista

Mijas Playa Restaurant in La Cala on 11th Dec. from 12.30 - 5.30pm and to compliment the salmon you can

taste the best Buluga Vodka as well as having a fashion show of Scottish kilts, evening and cocktail dresses.

Flower arrangements by Bunches

We are holding a FREE tasting of Scottish

Smoked Salmon in the

here are thousands of cocktail bars in the major foreign holiday resorts and thousands more Tordinary bars that sell cocktails. They're dangerous

you know! We have all done it at one time or another. You have a cocktail. Try another. Giggle. Try another. Then attempt to go to the toilet and fall flat on your face. Never under estimate the strength of those silly looking drinks with a paper parrot sticking out of the top. I wonder if the name of your cocktail tells you something about yourself. Maybe it tells you something about who or what you would like to be, or the mood that you're in. Most people don't even look at what's in a cocktail; they just go for the name.

Jelly baby You big kid!Depth charge I fancy a curry tonight.Orgasm You may be subconsciously thinking

to yourself 'Oh yes, I remember one of those - vaguely!'

Bloody Mary That's boring, unless you fancy punching some poor woman called Mary.

Grand slam You fancy punching someone even if their name isn't Mary.

Monkey gland You're sick and require therapy.Between the sheets Who with?Pina Colada Del Boy, second hand car selling

medallion man.Manhattan I wish I was in New York.You're Ugly and your Mum dresses you funny I just made that one up!

It can sometimes be a major task actually getting the cocktail that you really want to drink. Some of the names are so filthy that you daren't ask for one if you're sober. IF you are a NICE lady, you are unlikely to walk into a bar and say to the foreign waiter 'Two orgasms please', are you? You are. Fair enough then!

By Stuart Wright

Read more in his new book is now available fromThe Irish Card Shop in Fuengirola Hemmingways & David's Bookshopsin both Los Boliches and Benalmadena

Bookworld Espana and Morrisons Gibraltar

An Ideal Gift for Christmas

8

Ladies Fashion OutletNewly Opened

in La Cala

Ladies Fashion OutletNewly Opened

in La Cala

All 100% cotton original designs

in a relaxed easy to wear style

All 100% cotton original designs

in a relaxed easy to wear style

Opposite the information Tower. C/ Torreon, La Cala

Opposite the information Tower. C/ Torreon, La Cala

Open 10.30 - 2.30. 5.30 - 8.30

Tel. 952599318

Open 10.30 - 2.30. 5.30 - 8.30

Tel. 952599318

Jean and Bev welcome you to their nest

Ronan's Quiz Night

Nigel's Christmas Fayre Menu

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

Boxing Day

New Year's Eve

Every Thursday Cash Prizes 8.00pm. All welcome

available from 14th December. Booking only

Bar Open 1.00pm till late

Christmas Carols with Darren and CrewSanta Clause bearing gifts for the kids 3.00pm

Karaoke and Disco with D.J Ollie 4.00pm onwards

Bar Open 12.00pm to 2.00pm for pre drinks with Jean and Bev

1.00pm till lateKaraoke and Disco with Dave the Brave

Nigel's Special Boxing Day Brunch

Karaoke and Disco with Dave the Brave, All welcome

The Winter Skies

've always thought that the winter night skies are the best for astronomy (apart from the cold!) The Istars seem to shine more brightly and I think that

there is more to see up there. One of the most recognizable and conspicuous constellations, Orion the hunter, is visible during winter and he can be used as a guide to finding lots of other interesting constellations, star clusters and nebulas, that are easily seen with binoculars. Look to the East at around 9.00pm and you will see Orion rising majestically from the horizon. The three stars in his belt and the brilliantly bright stars of Betelgeuse, Bellatrix, Rigel and Saith give him the appearance of a huge butterfly or bow tie shape. But as he rises higher in the sky he stands more upright and becomes the mighty hunter that he really is.

The bright red star that makes up Orion's shoulder, Betelgeuse (pronounced Beetle-juice) is a true giant; it is over 700 times bigger than our sun but is in the last few years of its life. It has used up almost all its supply of Hydrogen fuel and is swelling into what astronomers call a red giant. At sometime in the not too distant future it will explode into a supernova and for a few days it will appear as bright as the Sun before fading beyond sight. Take your binoculars and look just below Orion's 'belt' to where his 'sword' would be and you will see a fuzzy patch of stars, this is the famous Orion nebular. It is a nursery where new stars are being formed. In dark skies it is clearly visible to the naked eye.

Now follow the three stars that make up his 'belt' in a straight line to the right and you will come across the bright red star Aldebaran. Aldebaran forms the red eye of Taurus the bull who is powering down onto Orion. The two horns of the bull stretch out above Orion's head.

Look slightly above Aldebaran and you will see a small cluster of stars; this is The Pleiades cluster, 'baby' stars just a few million years old and still in their infancy. People with good eye sight should be able to pick out the seven sisters that make up the Pleiades but through binoculars it is a jewel case of hundreds of stars and a sight you will never forget! In the early hours of 29th December you will be able to see the Moon marching its way right through the Pleiades.

Later on during December when Orion has risen higher in the sky, follow the three stars of his belt down toward the left and you will come across the brightest star in the night sky, Sirius. Sirius is a close neighbour of ours at only 8 light years away and sparkles so brightly over Christmas that many have even suggested it as the Star of Bethlehem.

Merry Christmas!

For updated astronomy news check out my website at www.kencampbell.info

The Winter Skies

By Ken Campbell

6

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Fancy something for the Christmas festive season, but don't like Christmas cake? Well here is a treat using mincemeat, which isn't over powering. Use fresh pears when they are available, or for an easy option, a can of pears will equally do the job. The almond will keep the topping lovely and moist and works well with the crispy pastry. Serve cold, as a 'cut and come again' tray bake, or serve warm with a dollop of cream, either way, there won't be many crumbs left!

170 g Plain flour85 g Butter5 ml Caster sugar1 egg yolkApprox 15 ml (1 tbsp) cold waterTopping2 x 15 ml Mincemeat110 g Butter110 g Caster sugar2 Eggs, beaten55 g Self-raising flour55 g Ground almonds2 pears, peeled, cored and sliced (fresh or canned)30 g Flaked almonds

Method1. Make the pastry by sieving the flour into bowl and adding the butter, cut into small pieces. Rub the butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and bind together with the egg yolk and water. Chill for 30 minutes. Roll out to fit a 17.5 - 20 cm cake tin. Chill for a further 15 minutes.2. Bake blind for 7 -10 minutes in a hot oven, 170 C fan/200 C conventional/Gas mark 6. (Use greaseproof paper and beans/or foil to hold pastry down when baking blind) Allow to cool.3. Spread the mincemeat over the pastry and then lay the slices of pear on top.4. Beat together the butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the beaten egg, then stir in the flour and ground almonds.5. Cover the pears and mincemeat with the cake mixture and sprinkle with the flaked almonds.6. Bake at 160 C fan/180 C conventional/ Gas mark 5 for 30 - 40 minutes until the mixture is set.

Alternatively, individual 'muffin' size tartlets can be made. Follow the same method, by cutting circles of pastry to line a muffin tin (use a paper case to hold pastry down when baking blind.) Place about ½ teaspoon of mincemeat in each case. Lay some chopped up pears on top, followed by a teaspoonful of the almond cake mixture. Sprinkle with flaked almonds. Cooking time will be reduced to 20 - 25 minutes, and cooked at the same temperature as above.

The Christmas Cookery Connection4

A Little Christmas Connection

A Little Christmas Connection

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS:There are traditions which are common to most countries but there are some that seem to be deliberately different. The slogan "Spain is Different", coined in the 70's to promote tourism, is justified in many ways. April Fools' Day, celebrated the world over on April 1st is celebrated in Spain and the Hispano-american countries on December 28th!Whereas the choice of April 1st seems to originate with the 16th century when the French king Charles IX decided to adopt the present day Gregorian calendar which made January 1st the start of the year instead of March 25th. The new year celebrations went from March 25th to April 1st and even after the adoption of the new calendar many French continued to celebrate the previous dates and were considered rather dim, hence they were called "Poisson d'Avril". Lots of European countries soon took to the habit of the April Fools pranks but it didn`t take on in the UK till over two hundred years later.

In Spain December 28th is the feast day of the "Holy Innocents" those children under the age of two who were massacred by King Herod in his attempt to kill the newborn king and

the pranks end by calling those who fall for it "Inocentes" which can also mean "naive".

MISTLETOE...The importance of mistletoe dates back to 200 BC when the Druids collected mistletoe at the beginning of winter to burn it as an offering to the Gods. They only collected the mistletoe from the sacred oak trees which was considered to have curative powers for everything but especially effective to improve fertility in women. Scandinavian folklore associates mistletoe with Frigga, the goddess of love, hence the hugging and kissing routine when the mistletoe is strategically hung over the door. The Catholic church later prohibited the use of mistletoe because of its pagan connotations and suggested the use of the Christmas tree as we now know it because the green spiky leaves represent the crown of thorns and the red berries the blood drops (although this story is also attributed to holly) ... seemingly it was thought fit to remember Christ's crucifixion while celebrating his birth.

THE POINSETTIAThis wonderfully bright red plant with its star shaped "flowers" is displayed all over Spain every Christmas. It is in fact a native Mexican plant named after the US ambassador to Mexico, Joel R. Pointsett who brought the plant to America in 1828. The legend has it that it started its roll in Christmas traditions in the 17th century by the Mexican Franciscans when a young boy on his way to visit his local nativity scene, realized he had no gift for the baby Jesus. So he gathered some green foliage from the roadside and lay it at the side if the crib, where after a short time the leaves turned red to the splendor of the other children. The red flowers of the Piontsettia are in fact the upper leaves of the plant that turn red.

A Little Christmas Connection

Winter Skys

Acient Meets Modern

Mincemeat and Pear Flan

Lions Christmas Fayre

Merry Christmas and welcome to our Yuletide issue of the Costa Connection. In this issue we Ahave some explanations about some of our

traditional festive things and we also have an alternative to Christmas cake, see the Cookery Connection on page six. We can show you all the fun of the Christmas Fayre we all had at the Hotel Tamisa Golf, where Father Christmas made an appearance. I did ask the Lions if it was the real Father Christmas and not just a man dressed up and they assured me that it was the real one. So I asked why he was wearing glasses and they told me he was having trouble reading the labels on the presents. He must have been to Specsavers.Lots of restaurants, hotels and bars are now hosting all the hard workers Christmas knees up's, so if you haven't booked yours yet, you had better be quick or you may be left out in the cold!Don't take any bets this Christmas on whether it will snow here on the Costa, because it WILL, every Saturday evening and Sunday lunch at the Molino del Cura Thai Restaurant at the top of the Mijas road. They have got themselves a SNOW MACHINE!......How cool is that!Enjoy the festive season and remember good will to all men, funny it doesn't mention women.

Tony Cowham. Editor

Contributors

Alan Cuthbertson

Ken Campbell

John S. Dolphin

Stuart Wright

Mike (Scooby)

Pam Wiffen

Mystic Elle (Elle)

Mike & Linda Hennell

Frank Bowles

Proprietor Wendy Ann Cowham

Email [email protected] Tel.695 155 085 or 616 061 553Deposito Legal MA - 977 - 2006 Please ensure your content is in JPG format with the correct image size @ 300 dpiPlease be aware that we cannot be held responsible for information

supplied by our advertisers. The Costa Connection Magazine, the

publisher cannot accept responsibility for products or services

advertised in this magazine. Our aim is not to offend or upset any

readers of this magazine and the editorial supplied to us by our

contributors is to be taken as their personal view. The reproduction in

whole or part of any text or photographs is forbidden. All artwork and

editorial produced by this magazine is the property of the Costa

Connection Magazine.

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