CLUB SIBERME CLUB SIERRA BERMEJA

SOCIO-CULTURAL DE ESTEPONA

INTERNATIONAL CLUB OF ESTEPONA

FOR ALL ENGLISH SPEAKING PEOPLE of San Pedro - Estepona - Casares

Manilva - Sotogrande & Beyond

DECEMBER 2014 Edition www.siberme.com

Email: clubsiberme@hotmail.com

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Page 32 Grey Nomading in Australia Continued (Article) Page 34 Computer Tips + Scam of the Month Page 35 Leisure Page Page 36 General Information Page 37 Committee and Advert Info Page 38 Just for a Smile

Editor Terry Smith

Email: terrysmith@siberme.com

Phone 951 276 690

Mobile 677 656 319

ICE Magazine

EDITORIAL:

Best wishes to all members and friends for

a Merry Christmas and a Happy New

Year.

Thanks to all contributors to the

magazine, it makes my job so much easier,

keep them coming. Pat and Terry Smith

Input from members for your

magazine, interesting articles and

experiences. Important information, funny

stories, poetry, recipes,

restaurant revues, etc. etc.

These can be emailed to me or left at the

clubhouse, top drawer in cabinet between

ladies toilet doors.

President Doug Mitchell Editor Terry Smith Advertising Jackie Simmonds

Disclaimer: - The committee wishes to declare that ICE does not accept

responsibility for the contents of articles nor the claims made by advertisers.

Printed by Digiprint, Avda Litoral, Edificio Visamar, Blq 2 Local 9, 29680 Estepona

Visit Our New Improved Club Website: www.siberme.com

Free Wi-Fi for members at the clubhouse. Now upgraded to 8Mb

The magazine is published on the website on or before the first day of each month. PLEASE MENTION ICE CLUB & MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS.

Page 5 President’s Letter Page 6 Bulletin Board + Lottery Page 7/8/9/10/11 Past Events Page 12 December Events + Events For Your Diary Page 13/14 December Calendar Page 14 Further Past Event Page 16 Blevins Franks Article Page 21 Members Christmas Greetings Page 26 Club Photos Page 27 A Christmas Story (Members Article) Page 28 Bowling Group News + Nigel’s Classified Ads Page 30 Golf News

Contents

Thanks to all those who have

contributed items for your

magazine, please keep them

coming.

Just a bit of verse

to say ~ “may

Christmas Joys be yours today!”

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Estepona Osteopathic Clinic

PAUL KNIGHT Bsc(Hons) Ost.

Specialist treatment for

back, neck and limb injuries,

children and expectant mothers.

Mobile: 625 957 673

1D, First Floor,

124, Avenida de España,

Estepona

Located immediately opposite the

underground car park entrance,

facing the sea.

TELAS & TELAS The perfect place to shop

for all your Household

Goods Curtains

& Materials etc.

At the corner of

C/ Sevilla & C/ Lopez de Mena

behind the Bus Station

in San Pedro

Open Monday to Friday

10.00am to 2-00pm

Tel: 952 788 117

A cut

Above

The Friendly British Hair Salon

Unisex Peluqueria For Every Day

& Those Special Occasions

952 805 485

Ask For THERESA or SARA

We are offering a promotion on

Blow-dries, Shampoo and Sets

for 12 Euros.

Monday to Friday

OAP days are Monday to Friday

Estepona Port

Opposite Club Nautico

All kinds of

sewing

undertaken

I will do all repairs and alterations

I make curtains

Dressmaking

Upholstery of terrace furniture

And even equine or pet accessories

No job is too large or too small

Call Heidi on 606-237-757

heidi.manilva@gmail.com

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Food For Thought Submitted by Rosemary Ferguson

“You have to fight for your life, that’s the chief condition upon which you hold it”

~ Saul Bellow

DO YOU LIKE PREPARING DESERTS??? To assist the hard working catering teams our catering manager Brenda Taylor is

seeking ladies or gents to make deserts of 12 portions at home or the club that can be then frozen or delivered on a Thursday morning. You will have your costs

reimbursed. Please contact Brenda 952 805 739 / 654 579 492

YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU - MORE VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED Your club is run by volunteers, without them we cannot function. Help is re-quired for the following: Bar staff, training will be given, see Mac McIntyre Bar Manager. Help required by catering teams for preparation and serving to members, Thursday mornings, no cooking, no clearing up. See Catering Manager Brenda Taylor. Meeters and greeters to man the front door for just an hour on a Thursday club

Presidents letter December 2014 The Clubs 26th Birthday Party that was held at Tikitano this year,

was a great success and our entertainer for the evening, Mandy,

stepped in at the last minute when we were let down with less than

a week to go, was a real find. Thanks to the ICE Players Drama Group who worked so hard to put

on the pantomime Ali-Din and Astar over three days. This was

enjoyed by many members and friends. As we move into the Festive Season, with lots of our usual activi-

ties to look forward to, our Christmas Lunch, a visit from the bell ringers and choir,

our Christmas concert, a trip to the Malaga Lights, and there will be Maureen’s get-together on Christmas morning for those staying in Spain, singles and couples.

I would like to thank Robert Distler for sponsoring an additional ceiling fan situated

over Roberts usual spot in the bar area. I’m told this is a bit of a hot spot!

Joanna and I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year. Doug

Should you have suggestions for any event or

activity at your clubhouse, or for a trip whether for a

day or longer period, please contact a

member of the committee.

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT

It is with regret the club announces the death recently of a previous long standing club member: Don Mac who passed away during October.

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Bulletin Board

BOOK LIBRARY: CAN MEMBERS PLEASE NOT SUBMIT HARDBACK BOOKS TO THE LIBRARY, PAPERBACKS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED. Returned books should be placed at the foot of the first half of the alphabet as designated - the librarian will then sort. DVD/VIDEO Library: Can members please ensure they sign for all borrowed films and add mem-bership number, Please return films as soon as possible and sign as returned. Jigsaw Puzzles: There is a selection of jigsaw puzzles available stored under the video library. They are mostly 500 pieces, some 1,000. Glasses, cups etc: Please return to the bar before leaving the club. Please place used unbroken bottles carefully in bin provided, which is positioned under the dartboard. Return plates and cutlery to the kitchen. Terrace Doors: Those people who open terrace doors are responsible for closing same.

TRIP CANCELLATIONS MUST BE REFERRED IN FIRST INSTANCE TO THE ORGANISER

International Emergency

The club committee has now closed account.

IMPORTANT, ALL ORGANISERS PLEASE NOTE: THE CLUBHOUSE FURNITURE MUST BE LEFT AS SET FOR A THURSDAY MEETING BEFORE LEAVING CLUB. SWITCH OFF LIGHTS, FANS AND AIR CONDITION-

ERS. SET BUILDING ALARM AND LOCK DOORS.

IMPORTANT: TELL THE BAR STAFF OF ANY BROKEN GLASS

AND THEY WILL DISPOSE OF IT.

Lottery Winners October

1st Ray Oldfield 84€

2nd Barbara Bryant 42€

3rd Irene Minkin 21€

Club 21€

ICE Ramblers Group Contact Sue Potter Walk Co-ordinator 637 148 660 or 952 892 386

Ramblers Please Note: The club does not have any Insurance Policy in force in relation to its Rambling activities, and all members and their guests participate entirely at their own risk. Neither the club nor any walk leader will be responsible for any injury or loss suffered by any partici-pant however caused. Those attending rambling events should be suitably attired with stout walking footwear and carry waterproofs in case of weather change. You should carry a packed lunch and adequate liquids for the duration of the ramble.

Application period for latest MANILVA Area IBI discount 2015 is now open From now until the end of December, 2014, the discount on the IBI charge for those with a clean payment record has begun. In order for you to benefit from this discount you need to comply with 3 requirements: be registered on the local padrón, have your IBI bill on direct debit and have no debts with the town hall. The procedure for applying is easy: Fill in a form found in the Town Hall offices or on the Town Hall website - Present you IBI bill from last year and have it on direct debit - Present a copy of your NIE/passport. All these must be then registered in the Manilva Town Hall, Calle Mar, or in Sabinillas at the Tenencia de Alcaldia.If you have any questions when filling in the documents and need help, please contact the Foreign Residents Office in the Castle, or send an email to ex-tranjeros@ayto-manilva.com or contact Valentina in the Town Planning Office, above the local police station in Manilva or phone 689 948 672.

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5 Day Trip to Barcelona Monday Day 2: After a leisurely and very enjoyable breakfast, we all gathered in reception to await our guide, Vigo, for the day. We spent the morning touring the City, seeing most of the points of interest including the National Art Museum housed in a former Cathedral, and the 1992 Olympic Arena where the flame at the top of the tower was lit by an arrow fired from the centre of the stadium. There was also the Museum of History, which is in the only warehouse not hit by bombs or bullets during the Civil War. The views over the harbour from Montjuic were magnificent, but we were disappointed to find that the funicular, which joins two sets of cable cars to link the city with the top of the mountain, had been af-fected by a landslide and was not working. Back in the city, we passed the impressive 60 metre high monument to Christopher Columbus, erected in 1888, with its half metre long finger pointing, not, as would have seemed reasonable, towards the New World, but more towards Algeria. Apparently the direction of the finger was merely to indicate the sea, to emphasize his achievements in naval exploration. The reconstruction of Barcelona's sea front commenced in the 1980's, to be ready for the Olympics, and resulted in several white sandy beaches, (including one for nudists) replacing the old black sand. Instead of Barcelona “turning it's back on the sea”, it then had a very attractive sea front promenade which proved to be the birth of Barcelona as a tourist resort. Of the 3 bullrings which once existed in Barcelona there is only one left intact, and that is the only place in Spain where the Beatles ever played. The last bullfight took place in September 2011, and bullfight-ing is now banned, although there are apparently moves afoot to bring it back, but without killing the bull, as in Portugal. Presumably torture is O.K.! One of the other bullrings, very close to our hotel, still has its original facade, beautifully refurbished, but the interior has been completely rebuilt to provide a shopping centre, with restaurants on the roof. We subsequently ate there on 2 occasions - highly rec-ommended. Before lunch we had a tour, on foot, around the outside of the Sagrada Familia, and then the coach dropped us near Las Ramblas for lunch. (We will call it “Las Ramblas” as that's what we have always known it as, but walking along it we discovered it is also “La Rambla” and “Les Rambles”, depending, presumably, on what language you speak.) We found a tapas bar about one-third of the way down and chose a table indoors (Barcelona is one of those places where it costs considerably more to sit out-side). Like Pinocchio's nose, our table grew and grew until there were 19 of us, and we had a most enjoyable, reasonably priced lunch. Vigo then took us on a walking tour of the Gothic area, and afterwards we had some free time before returning to the hotel. That evening, we decided to eat at Restaurant Roma, an Italian restaurant immediately opposite the hotel, having had good reports from others who had been the night before. We were a party of 10, and booked a table for 8.30pm. We arrived promptly, and soon realised a further 12 I.C.E members had come into the restaurant making a total of 22! Despite the fact that we had booked a table, we were the last to be served. We waited over 30 minutes for drinks, and didn't eat until after 9.30, which somewhat marred the evening as we were all starving and had to watch everyone else eating! Despite that hiccup, we had had a great day, and ended it on a beautiful balmy evening with drinks on the roof terrace of the hotel. We went to bed looking forward to exploring in more detail the areas we had already briefly seen. This was our first visit to Barcelona, but we were so impressed it will certainly not be our last. Thanks Joan – up to your usual standard. Submitted by Ken & Liz Harris.

PAST EVENTS

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PAST EVENTS 5 Day Trip to Barcelona Girona and Figueres: During the Barcelona trip Danny took approximately half the group on a day trip to Girona and Figueres. We started by seeing a bit more of Barcelona and then travelled approximately 103 kilometres north east of Barcelona towards the French border and arrived at this stylish little city built alongside the Onyar River, Girona founded by the Romans. We walked the historic Jewish quarter with museums and buildings stone built in very narrow cobbled streets. Danny told us that the Jews were expelled in 1492. We passed the imposing Cathedral but did not go up the 86 steps. There were galleries, boutiques and tempting cake shops and of course many other tourists. We crossed over a bridge designed by Gustav Eiffel and finally arrived at Independence Square where we had free time for lunch. Girona also claims the World's second best restaurant El Celler de Can Roca and people fly in just to eat there having made a booking some months before. Then it was time to go closer to the French border and visit Figueres, Dali's home town. We went to the Dali Theatre Museum, home to the largest collection of Dali assembled anywhere in the world. In the entrance was a vintage Cadillac topped by a large female statue, with Dali and his life long love in the rear seat. Twenty odd rooms had paintings, sculptures, jewellery and holograms. Dali' s imagination knew no bounds. We came away in awe and confusion. Dali's remains are buried in a crypt below the stage floor. Danny was very informative throughout the day and we were very lucky with the weather being warm and sunny. Submitted by Carole Murray

5 Day Trip to Barcelona ¡hola martes! Or how Joan's clothes went to the opera! We enjoyed quite a late start to allow every-one to recover from a very long Sunday and an energetic Monday. Some people lingered over the gen-erous breakfast buffet and others went for a fast-paced walk or shopping. Some early risers did all three. The number and variety of posters encouraging Catalans to vote in their independence referen-dum scheduled for November 9th (“9N” in local shorthand) was quite remarkable. Vigo, our Catalan/Danish alternate guide, showed us the cheapest way to travel around town. Just over €10 for a ten-trip multi-person multi-day ticket, so a hair over one euro per trip. The metro took about 15 of us to Liceu, the station closest to the Jewish quarter, where we would continue our tour aban-doned on Monday afternoon. Liceu is so named because it is the closest station to Barcelona's small but elaborate opera house. Four people detached themselves from the group to find out what seats (and prices) were on offer at the Liceu for this evening's programme, “La Traviata.” Gulp. Even with senior discount, the cheapest remaining were about €95. Double GULP. Groaan. How often does one get this chance? Wallets were opened, without questioning whether our holiday luggage included opera attire. Into the former Jewish quarter. The area is typified by specialist shops with elaborate window displays, very narrow alleys of four and five-storey buildings, many three or four centuries old. As elsewhere in Spain in the 15th and 16th centuries, Jews were not allowed to dwell inside the fortified towns, but were permitted to live and conduct their business right outside the town gates. On to a large plaza dominated by the Catalan ayuntamiento edifice, itself decorated with a very hand-some “George and the dragon” sculpture. The adjacent building sported a giant “time to vote” count-down clock. Overnight, Spain's Rajoy had managed to declare the planned referendum illegal under Spanish law, and the Catalan ministers decided to cancel the referendum to avoid personal legal liabil-ity. Thus the square was a hotbed of political activity, with some citizens supporting Rajoy but the ma-jority regretting the pusillanimity of the Catalonian leadership. They later offered a plebiscite, instead of the referendum, but this appears to have the legal status accorded an opinion poll (i.e., none). >> 9

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<<8 Next we visited the remains of a temple dedicated to Augustus Caesar. This was fascinating in part because it was incorporated into an 18th century block of flats. An engraving on the wall showed how the temple pillars had been incorporated into three storeys of the block. Modern restoration had kicked the tenants out and removed the false floors. After an agreeable caffeinated interlude, we strolled around the historical quarter enjoying the gar-goyles and a classical trumpeter in a planned visit to the Gothic cathedral, believed to be open to all. We queued, patiently or otherwise. Doors opened and closed and hordes entered and exited. Then it was our turn. Nooo. We learned that entrance was free only in the morning. Plans were rearranged rapidly. The committed decided to go in anyway, while the less committed and the heathen tourists abstained. Confusion abounded. The parsimonious prevailed and no-one entered the cathedral, instead heading off to a different district for lunch. One person on a tour of local statuary (not hostelry, as alleged) had to be retrieved by Vigo, costing the group 15 precious minutes. Barely forgivable since we were on our way to a gastronomical feast. Roasted goat's cheese, coquilles St. Jacques, dessert, all attractively presented, and an adult beverage, whose presentation was less important, for about €12. Great deal. The Argentinian waitress was concerned about her visa status if Catalonia exited Spain. What about the UK passport-holders in Spain if Cameron flounces out of the EU? Something to ponder. Back to the hotel for an R&R, hose-down and change of wardrobe for some. This afternoon promised a tour of the interior of the magnificent La Sagrada Familia. Fortunately for us, Danny had secured a block booking online for those of us wishing to participate at 13€ a pop, so we were spared a six-hour queuing session in the baking sun. While we awaited the designated admission slot, a vision of EU largesse pulled up in the parking lot opposite the cathedral. Yes, you, your tax Euros and sterling had purchased for Barcelona an environmentally acceptable electric bus. Symbolic of the EU perhaps. Very glossy, cute driver, but not taking passengers! Did I hear someone say all mouth and no trousers? The sheer scale of the interior of the cathedral is immense, made more so by the complete absence of typical church “furniture and fittings” that will, one supposes, appear in some decade of the never-ending construction of Gaudi's masterpiece. Despite ongoing construction and the noisy tourist hordes, the latter financing the former, the building is a functioning church. The basilica was consecrated by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010, and mass is celebrated twice daily, once in Spanish and again in Catalan, except on Sunday (six ceremonies). There are four massive pillars named after the principal apostles, but almost devoid of ornamentation. The altar is highly unusual, featuring a crucified Christ suspended from something resembling an illuminated parachute. (It's not just my memory. My photo looks like that, too!) There is no back panel, so one sees straight through to the organ at the rear, which seems sur-prisingly small for a building of this volume. Later I learned that the organ will be expanded to 8,000 pipes as the interior nears completion. For those who appreciated the outside of the building, there were echoes in the elaborate staircases to the towers, one designed to resemble an ammonite. There was also a small font shaped like an oyster shell. A relatively new addition (2009) is a bronze door opening to the main nave. It features the Lord's Prayer in Catalan and “Give us this day our daily bread” in 49 languages. The stained glass windows are enormous, complex tone poems in primarily pastel shades which doubt-less will be studied by art and ecclesiastical scholars in future generations. Coloured arrangements represented various saints, whose names were indicated on scrolled labels. OK, it was stained glass, separated by lead beading and concrete, but I found it sterile. I did not connect with these works in the same way as I had with Traherne's windows at Hereford Cathedral or simpler representations in many English churches. Perhaps the interior will feel less like a 21st Century version of Victoria station when pews, wall-hangings and surrounding chapels are installed and the coach-loads of foreign tourists are removed. >>10

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Saturday 25th October - Bob & Terry’s 4th Annual Walking Treasure Hunt

So it was back to Estepona again, part of old town, shopping centre and paseo. We kept our

fingers crossed for the weather as date was changed to end of the month due to other events

being arranged. However luck was on our side and we had a warm sunny day.

This turned out to be the best supported treasure hunt to date, over 60 members, guests and children attended so this gave the advantage to improve level of prizes which always depends

on number taking part.

We had one or two problems setting the questions, the first set being checked 3 weeks later

and found clues, due to bars closing, had disappeared. We also had to add a few ‘poser’ clues

as many are clocking onto our sad wavelength.

Winners as follows:

1st Sue and Audrey winning a voucher for 80€ for meals at La Rada Restaurant, Estepona.

2nd Marie and Sandy MacDonald winning a voucher for 25€ to spend at Thappa Thai

Restaurant, Estepona Port.

3rd Sheila Kirkham and Liz Dawson winning a bottle of cava each.

4th Lin and Ian Ingram winning a bottle of cava.

Well done to all those taking part. Thanks to Bob, Pat and Brenda for all their help. Next years treasure hunt planned for Saturday 3rd October Terry Smith

<<9 Back to the hotel for a serious cleaning, and a telling-off. The high heels and fishnet stockings had to be jettisoned in favour of more discreet attire to be worn at the Liceu. The opera house is relatively small, seating barely 2,300 patrons – (At almost one hundred euros a seat, certainly we were patrons, not punters) – roughly the size of Covent Garden but half of that of the Metropolitan. The building dates from the mid-19th Century, but has suffered two major fires. The 1999 restoration features many of the Art Nouveau (or modernismo) touches that would have been familiar to opera-goers in the 1930s. To say this opera is enjoyable is not quite correct. First, I had to promise not to hum along to Un di and the Brindisi drinking song. Second, this version was staged by Scotland's David McVicar, who said in the programme: “This production seeks deliberately to strip La traviata of extraneous decorative detail, setting the piece in period but within a dark sequence of small, suffocating spaces.” Let us say, he ex-ceeded his goal. Third, Violetta, when not taking huge breaths to belt out her dying lament, spent most of the third act retching into a spittoon. Eight of us (from the club) experienced La Traviata, only discovering at the first interval that this was a first night, and le tout-Barcelona had turned out in their finery to be seen at the opera. TV cameras were rolling in the lobby and local luminaries ascended stairway two to be captured on film descending the grandiose primary staircase. Others were rolling in the balconies where free cava was served. All in all, a phenomenal day. As Joan's clothes would turn into pumpkins at the stroke of midnight, we scurried back to the hotel. Submitted by Klara Baird

7th/8th/9th November ICE Players New Production - Panto (oh yes it is!) Ali-Din Review from an Anonymous Member of the Audience: Over 100 members and friends of ICE made up audiences in the small but much valued temporary theatre recently erected for the ICE Players pre Christmas Panto, 'Ali Din and Astar, the Genie of the Lamp!' The storyline – differing somewhat from its distant forbear, Aladdin, was nevertheless vaguely recognizable with Ali Din the hero, (played so masterfully and delightfully by Richard Wood) transforming from rags to riches and narcissism to phi-lanthropy - All in under two hours!!! Each member of the cast was enthusiastic and entertaining if not authentic in costume and accent.!....but the visually attractive and imaginative scenery and props cer-tainly added to the general atmosphere on the very small stage. >>11

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<<10 Whilst limited space here also, means that not everyone can get a mention, noteworthy perform-ances were certainly given by the Sultan (Adrian Hall) who really entered into the role of benevolent Ruler and his cohort (Julie Wood) whose periodic outbursts of “Off with his head“ (no that's the WRONG STORY!) were typical of many moments of poetic license in the plot, such as the crowd songs “Its Raining PENNE!” …“That old Lamp Magic!”....and the clever use of “Sin to tell a Lie!“ among oth-ers...(and how DID Cinderella get in there?) Two first timers to the stage also deserve much ap-plause....Monty Hamad as Astar, the Genie who really gave a superbly convincing and commanding rendition, and 'The Hottest Woman in Cairo' Joan Thompson whose identity was kept under wraps to the finale –with her first ever stage performance at the tender age of 'over 75'…well done! Every individual it seemed, was well casted and contributed to the fun and overall success of the show, EVEN The Villain! Costumes were beautifully colourful and well designed, all in all a kind of all embracing smorgasbord of a plot... slapstick, pathos, drama, fun and yet also moments of reflection and inspiration. In her remarks, script writer and general mover, Marion Allen said that it had been a privilege to work with all involved to help make the amazing evolution from written page to live per-formance and how very much she appreciated each one's input; from backstage supporters (Tracey and Sandy), each ONE of the performers, scenery and props (Ingrams), technical (Keith), production assistant (Carol), front desk (Martin), ticket sales, bar staff, programmes and publicity (Vic) and video production (Margaret Loughran, proceeds of videos will go to Cudeca) and those after show clear up. ‘Her only regret’ she said was that John and Rosemary Fergusson who had faithfully attended rehears-als, were not able to take part due to Rosemary having to undergo an operation right at the last minute apparently, John's snake charming act was greatly missed.....Oh no it wasn't.... oh yes it was!!!!! Thanks everyone!!!!! ICE Club Players Pantomime Revue by David Tandy: The admirable ICE Club Players presented their hilarious Christmas pantomime entitled “Ali-Din & Astar: The Genie of the Lamp”. This very entertaining evening offered the audience an amusing version of the well-known story of Aladdin and the lamp, set in Cairo in old Egypt. Poor Ali-Din was given a magic lamp in exchange for a carrot, and after a quick polish, the genie (Astar) appeared granting him three wishes for anything he wanted. Ali-Din was quickly transformed into the richest man in Cairo but his wealth didn’t make him popular because he became mean to all his friends. After various adventures he decided he wanted to marry the Sultan’s daughter but first the Sultan set him a riddle which he had to solve before getting permis-sion to marry. And Ali-Din had to soothe the Sultan’s wife who wanted his head cut off! Eventually he answered the riddle whilst sitting pensively on the banks of the Nile. Of course, everyone was delighted and lived happily ever after in true pantomime style. The costumes and set design in this production were both truly outstanding and a credit to all involved. The comic interludes kept the audience chuckling, especially the hieroglyphics sequence. The storyline was regularly interrupted for well-known and well-chosen songs which the cast sang with gusto and the audience often joined in. And a solo version of “Somewhere over the rainbow” was particularly moving. Our ICE Club Players have some lovely voices. Of course, being pantomime, audience participation was encouraged throughout. And the inevitable “Oh no he didn’t”. “Oh yes he did” was throw in to the amusement of all. In summary, it was an evening of great fun and a credit to everyone involved, both on stage and behind the scenes. Really well done ICE Players. Pantomime quiz winner Chris Quinton wins bottle of wine.

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DECEMBER EVENTS PLEASE NOTE: TICKET SALES CLOSE 12.30pm

ON THURSDAY MORNINGS.

**CORRECT MONEY PLEASE.**

CANCELLED TICKETS MUST FIRST BE REFERRED TO EVENT ORGANISER

Thursday 4th December - Christmas Lunch at I.C.E. Club - Chef Brenda & Her Team Friday 5th December - Christmas Quiz Night

8.00 for 8.30pm, quiz master Joan Thompson, 2€/3€ guests Monday 8th December - Members Christmas Film Night

Thursday 11th December - Music By CAP Bell Ringers and Choir Saturday December 13th - Coach Trip To Malaga For The Christmas Lights - Organiser Diane Hackett, 10€, 13€ guests, first pickup 4.30pm Sabinillas, return 10.30pm.

Sunday 14th December - ICE Christmas Concert - 7.30 for 8.00pm Bring some Christmas finger food. Organiser Joan Thompson.

Thursday 18th December - Club Kitchen Closed - Away Day Lunch Arranged at La Rada Restaurant, Estepona

Thursday 25th December - Christmas Lunch Time at The Club House On Christmas Day we are opening the club at 12noon until 2.30pm for a social get together. Only re-quest please bring a plate of Christmas type finger food. Even if you are dining later, you can still spend a pleasant few hours with friends in your club. There will be a free raffle, hopefully I can collect lots of prizes. Don’t be on your own come and join us. Maureen Baldwin-Winckle

The Clubhouse will be closed on the 25th December until the 4th January 2015

EVENTS FOR YOUR DIARY

Wednesday 14th January - Ramblers Get Together and Lunch - Organiser Sue Potter Saturday January 17th - Mr and Mrs Evening & Supper - Organisers Richard and Julie Wood

Saturday 24th January - Welcome the New Year Party Pie and mash supper by Sue and Diane, music for dancing by Michael Anthony, organiser Sue Potter

Friday 30th January - Mystery Coach Trip - Organiser Julie Wood Keep Fit Will Start Again in the New Year - Watch This Space

Tuesday 3rd February - Writers Group Inaugural Meeting Thursday 5th February - Presentation By Manilva Solicitors - Inheritance & Wills

Saturday 14th February - Valentines Party - Dinner By Caterers Del La Mar - Music For Dancing Tuesday 17th February - Shrove Tuesday - Pancake Races and Lunch Coach Trip to be arranged for Friday 27th February - watch this space

Tuesday 21st April Golf Spring Cup - See page 30 Trip proposed to Galicia During May - Organisers Joan Thompson and Danny

Wednesday 10th to 17th June Trip to Lake Como, Italy - NOW FULLY BOOKED Saturday 3rd October - Walking Treasure Hunt - Venue Manilva Town

EVENT MAY CHANGE, CHECK CLUB HOUSE NOTICE BOARD, OR-

GANISER OR STOP PRESS ON WEB SITE www.siberme.com

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EVENT MAY CHANGE, CHECK CLUB HOUSE NOTICE BOARD,

ORGANISER OR STOP PRESS ON WEB SITE www.siberme.com

LUNCHES SERVED THURSDAYS 6€, TAKE AWAY ALWAYS AVAILABLE

December 2014 DATE DAY REGULAR EVENTS EXTRA EVENTS

1 Dec Mon 2.30 - 5.00pm Art Class

2 Dec Tue

11.00 am Mahjong 11.00 - 1.30pm Bar Open Spanish Classes Beg 10.30 Adv 11.45

7.30 pm Canasta

3 Dec Wed Rambling

7.00 for 7.30pm Whist

4 Dec Thu 10.30am-2.30pm Bar Open

11.30am Weekly Meeting 1.00pm Christmas Lunch

5 Dec Fri 10.00am - 1.00pm Art Group

11.00am Additional Computer Meeting Only by prior arrangement and for Beginners ONLY!

8.30pm Quiz Night

6 Dec Sat Rambling Public Holiday Spain - Constitution Day

7 Dec Sun 12.30pm-2.30pm Bar Open & Tapas

8 Dec Mon 2.30 - 5.00pm Art Class 7.30 for 8.00pm Christmas Film Night Public

Holiday Spain Day of Immaculate Conception

9 Dec Tue

11.00 am Mahjong 11.00 - 1.30pm Bar Open Spanish Classes Beg 10.30 Adv 11.45

7.30 pm Canasta

2.00pm Committee Meeting

10 Dec Wed Rambling

7.00 for 7.30pm Whist

11 Dec Thu

10.30am-2.30pm Bar Open 11.30am Weekly Meeting & Open Forum 1.00pm Lunch, 2.00 pm ICE Players

7.00pm Duplicate Bridge

After Meeting there will be Music Performed by CAP Bell Ringers and Choir

12 Dec Fri 10.00am - 1.00pm Art Group 11.00 am Genealogy Group

13 Dec Sat Rambling Trip to Malaga Lights

14 Dec Sun 12.30pm-2.30pm Bar Open & Tapas 7.30 for 8.00pm Christmas Concert

15 Dec Mon 2.30 - 5.00pm Art Class

16 Dec Tue

11.00 am Mahjong 11.00 - 1.30pm Bar Open Spanish Classes Beg 10.30 Adv 11.45

7.30 pm Canasta

11.00am Ladies Book Club

17 Dec Wed Rambling

7.00 for 7.30pm Whist

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18 Dec Thu

10.30am-2.30pm Bar Open 11.30am Weekly Meeting 2.00pm ICE Players

7.00pm Duplicate Bridge

Away Day Lunch at La Rada Restaurant, Estepona

19 Dec Fri 10.00am - 1.00pm Art Group

20 Dec Sat Rambling

21 Dec Sun 12.30pm-2.30pm Bar Open & Tapas

22 Dec Mon 2.30 - 5.00pm Art Class

23 Dec Tue

11.00 am Mahjong 11.00 - 1.30pm Bar Open Spanish Classes Beg 10.30 Adv 11.45

7.30 pm Canasta

24 Dec Wed Rambling

25 Dec Thu Christmas Lunch Time at The Club House 12.00 to 2.30pm

26 Dec Fri

Club Closed until 4th January 2015 Public Holiday Spain and Gibraltar -

Thursday 25th December - Christmas Day

Public Holiday Gibraltar Friday 26th December - Boxing Day

27 Dec Sat

28 Dec Sun

29 Dec Mon

30 Dec Tue

31 Dec Wed

Wednesday 19th November - Ladies and Gents Who Lunch Out

A new venue for the 18 Juliets who attended to experience a very

good selection of Indian food at the Mumbai Masala, Estepona

Port lower level. We all sat in the toldo area as it was a nice

sunny day, although a bit of a chilly breeze. We all had a selection of starters that consisted of onion bargees,

chicken and meat with a side salad. Main courses were chosen

from an extensive menu and accompanied with rice or naan

bread. Sweet was ice cream, unfortunately the coffee machine

was broken. Thanks Maggie for arranging what was an excellent

lunchtime, unexpected to be sat out at end of November.

15 Romeos made a very welcome return to an old favourite ‘The Irish Fiddler’ on the upper

level at the Port, just a short walk from the Indian. Apart from 2 it was then for the others a

choice of the favourites ‘Irish Stew or Fish n Chips’ difficult choice which turned out about

evens. Choice of sweets that nearly ended in a riot when George found out again that the res-

taurant does not serve ice cream. We ended with a surprise drink on the house offered by the

owner. A most enjoyable lunch time with once again excellent food, thanks to Bob for the organising.

Mumbai

Masala

Estepona

Port

15

El Rincon Toscano

Restaurant

Pizzeria

Wine Bar

Calle Real 22-26, Estepona Telephone 952-795914

Roberto 648 263 369 or Yuri 610 336 547

A little taste of Italy Come and enjoy the excellent cuisine and

service provided by Roberto and Yuri

Opening hours

Lunch every day

1.30 – 4pm

Dinner 7pm – midnight

Closed on Wednesdays

16

Preserving Your Wealth

By Terry Wayne, Partner, Blevins Franks

We all have different circumstances and requirements, but the key financial objective for

most of us is to preserve our wealth. First of all to see us through retirement in the standard

of living we are used to, and perhaps to also leave our children and grandchildren an inheritance.

In today’s economic environment, wealth preservation has become extremely difficult to

achieve without the help of good advice.

The major threats to the preservation of your wealth include the imposition of higher taxes;

historically low interest rates; inflation; a loss of trust in banks; asset volatility and frequent

changes to legislation, such as pensions and taxation.

It is important to seek specialist advice to establish the best way to protect your wealth

against these threats. The advice needs to be highly personalised –when you consider your

family situation, source of wealth, income needs, short and long-term aims, time horizon, risk

appetite etc, your situation is quite unique.

You want an adviser who will be around for the long-term to provide guidance and recom-

mendations both to yourself now and to your spouse and family after you are gone. They should take the time to get to know you, your needs and objectives, very well. They should

understand how you want your family to inherit your assets and be looked after in future.

Building up a close, long-term relationship with one advisory firm produces positive results

and peace of mind.

When it comes to your investment portfolio, it must be based on your personal situation and

risk appetite - portfolios can carry a wide spectrum of risk, depending on the assets held

within it, the proportions, and the level of diversification. It is therefore essential that you

obtain an objective view of your risk tolerance. Your adviser can do this, for example,

through psychometric tests, combined with their knowledge of your personal situation and

aims.

Ideally, your adviser would live locally so they fully understand what it is like to live here and have a deep understanding of the financial planning needs of expatriates and the Spanish

tax regime.

They should have suitable professional qualifications, and ideally, for British expatriates, the

firm should be authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK for

providing investment and pension advice.

The sooner you review your financial planning, and set it up with a well-thought out, long-

term vision to protect your wealth, the sooner you can put it put it behind you and get on en-

joying your life here in Spain. Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided outside the UK, via the Insurance Mediation Directive from Malta, the regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the

Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and compa-nies. Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists. This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.

To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world,

check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com

17

18

19

Contact Alison De Cotta today to book your initial free Consultation. t: +34 662 351 056 e: alison.decotta@totus.com

20

21

George Woodward

would like to express his thanks to all who

sent him cards this festive season..

He would also like to wish

A Happy Christmas

& Prosperous New Year

to all his friends and members of I.C.E.

Chri

stm

as

Gre

etin

gs

To

all fr

om

Audre

y &

Les

Cordial Christmas Greetings to all I.C.E. club members, and especial

thanks to all those volunteers who gave time and effort for our

enjoyment. Let the New Year bring you all good

health, happiness and contentment. Annette L. Holmes

Mac and Jackie say a BIG

THANK YOU to the hard

working Bar Volunteers and

also wish ALL MEMBERS

an ENJOYABLE

CHRISTMAS AND A

HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Happy Christmas and Healthy New

Year to all our friends and members of

I.C.E. from Dan & Noreen

Happy Christmas to all our friends at the ICE Club from Margaret & Vic.

See you when we return in the New Year.

22

23

Curtains, Ready Made and

Made to Measure

Bespoke Blinds

Curtain Poles & Tracks

Beds & Bedding ~ Duvets

Throws ~ Bath Mats ~ Towels

Mattress & Pillow Protectors

***WE NOW SELL BEDS***

FREE Consultation & Measuring Service

Repsol

Manilva

Open10am to 7pm Monday to Friday ~ Saturday 10.am to 2.00pm

The Curtain & Bedding Co, Sabinillas, Manilva

Tel: 952 897 477 www.curtainandbeddingshop.com

Email: thecurtainandbeddingco@hotmail.com

24

25

26

ICE 26TH BIRTHDAY - TIKITANO

ICE ART GROUP EXHIBITION OPENING

RAMBLERS DESTINATION

27

Christmas Morning 1946 “He’s been! He’s been!” My excited cries very early on Christmas morning awoke my parents asleep in the room next door. I came bursting into their bedroom, pulling behind me a pillow case filled with colourfully wrapped pack-ages. “Look, Father Christmas has been in the night” I shouted, climbing into their bed and settling myself down between them. My parents were still half asleep but did their best to look as “over the moon” as I was. The next few minutes were spent feverishly pulling out my gifts one after another, tearing off the wrap-ping paper, and marvelling at the treasures within. A brand new shilling. A shiny half-crown. An orange. A box of liquorice allsorts. Coloured pencils and a colouring book. A jigsaw puzzle. And there at the bottom, a truly intriguing package. “Open this one carefully” my father advised, since the bed was now littered with torn and discarded wrapping paper. I did as he said and discovered a slim little book within. I looked at the front cover and did my best to read the rather long title. “Philips’ Pictorial Atlas of the World showing where and how people live.” I was immediately intrigued. My father opened the book and began to explain the maps and pictures within. The old world. The new world. How we know the earth is round. How to read a map. Where it is hot or cold in January. Where it is wet or dry. Our homeland - the British Isles. I was captivated and spent much of Christmas Day im-mersed in this, my very first atlas, visiting one wonder after another in my mind’s eye. I was especially fascinated by the illustrations. The world’s deepest valley. An atoll in the Pacific. A glacier in the Alps. And, in particular, the world’s highest mountain. Mount Everest, 29000 feet high. Flown over by aero-plane but never climbed. Wow I thought. This world really is an amazing place. My father had only recently returned from playing his part in World War Two and had actually been to some of the countries in my atlas. North Africa, Sicily, Italy. His finger traced his route across the map. I knew there and then that I had to see for myself as many of the amazing places and sights of the world as possible. My wanderlust was born that very morning. I was six years old and briefly glimpsed a driving force which was to shape much of my future life. After all the joys of that day, I finally began to feel sleepy and so my mother tucked me into bed. I snug-gled down contentedly but with my mind still whirling at the extraordinary experience of that Christmas Day. “What was your best present? She asked. “I assume it was your atlas”. I thought for a moment. “I do love it” I said. “But my very best present was having my Dad home safely from the war”. I suspect my mother left my bedroom with a tear in her eye as I settled down to dream.

Submitted by David Tandy

Transferring Funds From UK to Spain I don’t know whether there is anyway to ‘advertise/promote’ the best money transfer company I’ve found but they are really good and competitive in transferring funds from UK to Spain. They are called Transferwise.com and claim to be 85% cheaper than banks and use mid-market exchange rate and only charge £9.95 (ish) for transfers – seems very good to me! I use then all the time and it’s easy and reliable! Submitted by Richard Bearpark

PLEASE NOTE: NOT IN SPAIN, RENEWING YOUR ANNUAL CLUB MEMBERSHIP CAN BE CARRIED OUT BY BANK TRANSFER. FOR DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT CLUB TREASURER

TED LUNNISS 952 923 892 EMAIL: ted_lunniss@hotmail.co.uk

28

NIGEL’S CLASSIFIED ADS, TO SUBMIT ADVERT: nnevshehir@gmail.com

UNLESS REQUESTED ADVERTS WILL REMAIN IN MAGAZINE FOR 1 MONTH ONLY

FOR RENT 2 CAR GARAGE SPACE 9 METRES IN LENGTH Edificio Acuario (across from Estepona Port Lighthouse), price negotiable. Maureen Baldwin-Winckle 952 791 812

BOWLING OUR WAY! Monday 27th October - Benavista Bowls Club Challenge Match The Annual Benavista Challenge match resulted in defeat with an identical score as per last year 6-0. Rink 1: Vic, Diana, Les lost 31-15 Rink 2: Diane, Bob, Audrey lost 17 - 13 Rink 3: Reg/Dan, Dave, Chick lost 33 - 4 Rink 4: Tess, Brian, Roy lost 23 - 13 Rink 5: Claudia, Brenda, David lost 19 - 14 Rink 6: Terry, Peter, Denis lost 21 - 9 Once again in the latter stages of the matches the greater experience of the Benavista players pre-vailed, although as can be seen, in at least two matches our resistance was admirable and there was a vibrant team spirit to be commended. Bowlers should avoid bowling short and a team and a team is bowling short if more than half its bowls are stopping short of the ‘jack'. Short bowls tend to block access to the ‘jack’ and are in ineffective posi-tions. This makes it very difficult for the ‘skip’ to play and can result in a disastrous score at one end and in turn cost the match. We will greatly improve our chances next year if all put this into practice and that also means yours truly!!! Not the Robin Hood Way: Bowls are made with a ‘bias’ which to a greater or lesser they ‘swing’ away from the ‘jack’ after delivery, but at the latter stage ‘home’ the jack. We can use a clock face with 12 being the jack and 6 the delivery point. We bowl at number 9 or 3 and not directly at the ‘jack’ allowing the ‘swing’. However, although ‘legal’ some bowls ‘swing’ to the minimum which in effect can be used to advantage unless there are too many bowls ‘blocking’ the ‘jack’. In this scenario the ‘skip’ to his/her dismay finds it very difficult to be effective and lose a lot of points. ‘Skips’ are therefore dismayed when partnered with a bowler who consistently bowls short. This merits the use of bowls with a considerable ‘swing’ as they can go round short bowls to score. However, in my opinion, this is a distinct disadvan-tage at Benavista where the greens are below par ensuring the bowls are, in places, unable to ‘swing’. The regular Benavista players use this fact to their full advantage and a ’good’ bowler at Superbowl will not find the greens at Benavista easy to play. Thus, all the more merit to our team competing against all the odds and not flinching from a formidable task. That is why I term ’Robin Hood’ bowls as they travel as straight as an arrow more akin to 10 pin bowling!!! In keeping with other groups at Benavista I was informed by Benavista Management that we are not permitted to play and pay for half-a-game but must pay the full 8 Euros. This has given thought to some members that we change our venue to Superbowl where we will be made very welcome and benefit from favourable playing fees, excellent facilities and excellent greens. In the short-term perhaps it might be interesting to play alternative Mondays at Benavista and Superbowl. We put considerable sums of money into coffers of Benavista every year via our playing fees, refreshments at beaks, plus meals and drinks purchased as breakfasts or lunches. There isn’t positive response and I had to ask management to ‘donate’ bottles of wine for the winners of our tournaments and raffle. Food for thought!!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!!! Alan and Conchita

FOR SALE LADIES FUR COAT cost 400€ will accept 20€. Also ladies sweaters

available. Contact Peter Galloway 952 794 270

FOR SALE Bowls Medium Almark Clubmaster Size 3 + Carry Bag + Measure Tape 35 Euros Contact Alan Whiteman at the ICE Club

29

YOUR INVITATION

TO

FUTURA MARBELLA HEARING CENTER

* FREE HEARING CHECKUP

* FREE DEMONSTRATION

* BEST DIGITAL HEARING AID PRICES

* ALL MODELS AVAILABLE

Call for your appointment.

Michael Briales

Total dedication to your

hearing needs.

Mobile 660 892 627

AVENIDA

RAMÓN Y CAJAL Nº 3

GALERÍA SAN CRISTÓBAL

LOCAL 16

29600

MARBELLA

TEL: 952859925

The all-new most up to date

hearing centre in the Costa

now opened.

30

'ICE Golf Society'. DECEMBER 'AWAY DAY' I have arranged an 'Away Day' to the very well presented and popular El Chaparral Golf Club, Mijas Costa, for the 10th December. The Green Fee is 40€ each including a shared buggy, a very competitive rate, I think you will agree. The Tee off time is 09.50, so not too early and players are asked to arrive at least half an hour before hand. Groupings will be announced on the day. Space is now limited so if you would like to play you need to contact me NOW. SPRING CUP 2015 The Spring cup will be held on the 21st April at the fabulous Valle Romano Golf Resort, Estepona. The green fee will be about 67€ including shared buggy. The final figure is dependant upon final numbers. Buggies will be permitted on the fairways, except par 3's, subject only to adverse weather conditions at the time. This golf course has been used for the European Tour 'Qualifying School' and is, therefore, maintained at a very high international standard. We will be playing off of the Blue Tees, (5392 meters), for the Gents and the Red Tees, (4935 meters), for the Ladies. This compares to The Estepona Golf Club, used for this years Autumn Cup: Blue 5380m and Red 5073m. For this, and futures event, we will introduce a new prize for non-members. These guests must be in-vited by a member, will be subject to a two stroke cut in their Club/Federation handicap and, as in pre-vious competitions, can not be awarded the trophies. Please ensure that your guests are aware of these conditions. The entry form will be on the club notice board before the end of the month so get your name down. The more there are the cheaper it will be! Casares Golf Club 'Roll-Up' We play a twice weekly 'Roll-Up' stableford competition on Tuesdays and Fridays at Casares Golf Club where our members benefit from discounted green fees. Tee off times vary a little throughout the year but if you are interested arrive around about 08.00. We often have 12 or more players and it's all very friendly, light hearted, (in other words 'cut throat')!! and open to all levels. A sense of humour is well worth putting in the bag! Our annual 'Order of Merit' trophy is awarded to the player with the best ten cards from these 'Roll-Ups'. Keep your eye on the club magazine and web site for details of all activities. If you would like to become involved, contribute or comment please contact me. Alan Davis Golf Organiser. Tel: 952 897 670 Mob: 699 712 804 e-mail: alanandsue_hq@yahoo.co.uk

Christmas Crackers What does Santa suffer from if he gets stuck in a chimney?....Claustrophobia! Why does Santa have three gardens?................................So he can 'ho ho ho'! Why did Santa's helper see the doctor?......Because he had a low "elf" esteem!

What kind of motorbike does Santa ride?..................................................................A Holly Davidson! What do you call Santa's little helpers?................................................................Subordinate clauses! What do you get if you cross Santa with a duck?..............................................A Christmas Quacker! Who delivers presents to baby sharks at Christmas? ……………………………………...Santa Jaws! Who is Santa's favorite singer?....................................................................................... .Elf-is Presley! What do Santa's little helpers learn at school?.................................................................The elf-abet! What did Santa say to the smoker?..........................................Please don't smoke, it's bad for my elf! What do you get if Santa goes down the chimney when a fire is lit?............................Krisp Kringle! What do reindeer hang on their Christmas trees?..........................................................Horn-aments!

31

Anglican Church of Costa del Sol (West)

Each Sunday we hold Services as follows: -

San Pedro at 10.15am In the hall adjoining Parroquial Virgen del Rocio (Near McDonalds)

Sotogrande at 11.45am In La Iglesia Sra. de la Merced, the "Big Church"

Coffee Morning each Tuesday in Sabinillas from 11am In La Vicente Square, behind the taxi rank

Home Groups take place every week

Everyone is welcome

For further details contact:

Roger Richards (Church Warden) 952 891 765

Email: arrichards168@yahoo.co.uk

For all Property Maintenance Services

and key holding, let me care for your property

whilst you are away!

REFERENCES SUPPLIED IF REQUIRED

Gas Service/Installation

All plumbing requirements

Tiling

Home Refurbishments

Painting, inside & out

General repairs and maintenance to your home & garden or pools

Anything from a complete bathroom to a

curtain pole or a light fitting. No job too small

and all at realistic rates.

35 Years experience.

UK Corgi & ACOPS Reg.

Telephone for a free, prompt and efficient

service on: 650 884 147 or 952 891 619.

e-mail: gplocke6@hotmail.com

Monday to Saturday 10.30 - 14.30 hrs.

Tel; 952 80 22 21

Mob: 636 538 877

Calle Nuevo 8, Estepona 29680, Malaga

32

Grey Nomading in Australia Continued, Diary of Louise and Grahams Travels. Many of the club members will have met Margaret and Vic’s daughter Louise and her husband Graham when they visited from Australia for the occasion of Margaret and Vic’s Golden Wedding Anniversary Celebrations. Lou and Graham are now taking a 2 year working tour, known as Grey Nomading in Australia, by caravan. "Grey Nomads:" many Aussie's travel around Australia when they retire. Had a great time exploring Launceston, fell in love with Deloraine which is so pretty. We Headed North East passing though Scottsdale which is again pretty. On our way to the east coast, in the middle of nowhere, we saw a sign that said “Pub in the Paddock” and thought we would go have a look. It was an old school house that had been turned into a pub and yes, it was in the middle of a paddock. Their beer sales are doubled by the fact that Priscilla the pig loves a beer, people are encouraged to by her a pint! After a great lunch we followed the east coast with stunning beaches. Then turned inland on the Esk Highway. It was so steep, hairpin turns, very narrow lanes and scary distances to fall if you came off the road, maximum speed with the caravan was 25 km/h in 2nd gear. Passed through St Mary’s, then on to Fingal (blink and you miss it!) before heading to Mathinna for a house sit. After the house sit we headed down Elephant Pass road through Mt. Elephant and it was as scary as the trip to Mathinna! 300 metre drop to left of car!!! Hit the bottom of the pass to fantastic stunning Deni-son beach in Bechino. Continued on to a place called Triabunna a lovely fishing Port and we had a great time exploring before heading off to 7 mile beach about 20k’s outside Hobart. Took a fantastic 3 hour speed boat tour from Port Arthur around the coastline at the bottom of Tasmania, it was a stun-ning day and they said it would be calm enough to head into the Southern Ocean – if that was calm then I am Twiggy!!!! It was awesome, swell was huge. Sat at the front of the boat and had to wear seat-belts! The scenery was stunning; the boat went into hidden caves and the wildlife was abundant. People actually lived on Tasman Island, amazingly remote island, to run the lighthouse!!! They used a very frightening large pulley system with big baskets on to get people and supplies up to the top. Following day was a double-decker bus tour of Hobart, it was about 6 degrees and drizzling – yes we did sit up top in the open!! Hobart has so much convict history – the bus commentary was great and we learnt loads before warming up in the “Harbour Lights Cafe”, the harbour is stunning. Headed off to the West, through Richmond which is very British, Bridgewater, New Norfolk which is a stunning little town on the mighty Derwent River, finally stopping on the banks of Meadowbank Lake. Off to Derwent Bridge the next day to see “The Wall”. A guy has been hand carving an enormous wall of wood to tell the story of the hard lives of the early settlers. It was amazing, over a decade of work and still going. The drive from here to Queenstown was again a slow going trip through the mountains and then very step into Queenstown itself. Queenstown is an old mining town and there is talk of re opening the mine in the near future. Lovely old vintage steam train runs through the mountains and at point’s climbs a gradient of 1:20. Then onto Strahan on the Southern Ocean. Absolutely freezing but amazing private spot. Continued West the next morning to Zeehan through some stunning mountain ranges – nothing much in Zeehan which is again an old mining town. So continued on mountainous roads going through Rose-bery – a town near the top of a mountain. Passing a fantastic small town called Waratah, we both de-cided that if we ever moved to Tassie this is where we would like to be. We even looked at a house for sale with fantastic view from the front veranda, however in winter it would be covered under a thick blanket of snow – mmmmm – may be not! Finally for this instalment we arrived in Wynyard and visited a stunning tulip farm – tulips as far as the eye could see. Visited the North Western tip of Tassie which again was stunning. If you visit Australia and have never visited Tassie it is a must. Lou and Graham

33

UK TV SOLUTIONS Whatever your circumstances may be, Fast, Slow or even No Internet we have the solution for you.

IPTV If you have a good, stable internet speed then this is by far the best solution for you. Our IPTV Box

gives you all of the Free UK Channels that you have recently lost with no monthly fees to pay. This box will also turn you TV into a Smart TV, allowing you to Search the Web, Manage your Emails

and even Skype your Friends & Family all from the comfort of your Sofa. €195 Delivered and Installed

VPN If you are a Sky subscriber and have an Internet Connection (fast speed not necessary) then you can

enjoy the benefits of On Demand. On Demand is available to all Sky Subscribers with a Sky HD Box in the UK, however to take

advantage of this here in Spain you will need a VPN Router.

NO INTERNET NO PROBLEM If you have poor or no internet then you can access BBC, ITV & Channel 4 with this system.

Utilise your existing Sky Dish, which will need to be re-aligned to the new satellite, or have another smaller dish installed if you want to continue watching your remaining Sky channels.

For a friendly chat to see which UK TV Solution is best for you Call Hilary on 951 893481/680837169

uktvsolutions.es@gmail.com

34

Excel Tip of the Month Ctrl + Page UP Moves up through different sheets in a workbook

(Sheet 1, then 2, then 3 etc.)

Vic Loughran Peter Dowd

Monthly Computer Tips – December 2014

Free Office Suite The popular Kingsoft Office has now been renamed WPS Office (Writer,

Presentation, Spreadsheets) The latest version has a new feature “File Roaming” which auto-

matically saves every file that you create to the WPS Cloud. These can then be opened, ed-

ited and shared on other devices. It is compatible with all Microsoft Office formats and pos-

sesses some features which are not in Microsoft Office and of course the best news is that it

is free. It is available for Windows PC, Android and Apple devices although Apple devices

must be running iOS 7 or above.

An Excel Tip If you wish to enter more than one line in an Excel cell, do not press ENTER.

This takes you to the cell below. Press ALT+ENTER and the cursor moves to the line below

but within the same cell.

Numbering in Word Clicking the numbering icon in the Paragraph section of your Home

tab will display numbers in a specified format every time you press ENTER. You can change

the number format by clicking on the drop down menu to the right of the numbering icon and

a range of alternate formats are displayed. You also have option to define a new number for-

mat. If you wish to start a new line without a number, do not press ENTER, press

SHIFT+ENTER.

New Tablet App Skyscanner Hotels Search. Free for iOS and Android

Remember the Computer Group meets at the Clubhouse on the third Friday of the month at

11.00am. No need to book – just turn up. We have WiFi broadband internet available,

so why not bring your laptop / netbook / tablet etc along. If you have any questions or suggested topics for future please email us

vicloughran@siberme.com or peterdowd@siberme.com

Scam of the Month - Dec 2014

How to spot a scam email The writer might claim to be a government official, an accountant or a lawyer. They will tell you that they need to transfer millions of dollars to the UK – perhaps because of some major event in their country such as a coup or natural disaster. You're promised a slice of that money for helping with the transfer. You may be asked for your bank details. The fraudsters then raid your bank account. Alternatively, you will be told to send an upfront fee. Either way, you never see a penny of the promised payment.

NEXT NOVICES COMPUTER MEETING FRIDAY 5th DECEMBER 11.00am NEXT COMPUTER GROUP MEETING FRIDAY 16th JANUARY 2015 11.00am

35

LE

ISU

RE

PA

GE

Who is this flower girl. See

editor for a free drink at the bar.

OPTICA MACHIN English Optometrist now available for

consultation on the Costa del Sol.

Jane Staunton Machin BScMB Optom CNOO

Av. Litoral – Ed. Vistamar Blq. 2 – Local 1

29680 ESTEPONA MALAGA

Tel: 952 806 813

Full Eye Examinations: Glaucoma Screening:

Designer & Non-Designer frames & lenses: Sunglasses:

(prescription & non-prescription) Domiciliary Visits: (by appointment)

Contact Lens Fitting.

www.opticamachin.com

Word Grid: Find the 9 lettered word and see how many words of 4 letters and over you can make using the centre letter in all words and each letter only once.

Answer at bottom of page 38

DECEMBER CHRISTMAS QUIZ

ANSWERS PAGE 38

1. What date is St Stephen's Day? 2. In Charles Dickens' novel A Christmas Carol, who was Scrooge's dead business partner? 3. The song White Christmas was first performed in which 1942 film? 4. London's Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is traditionally given by which country? 5. In the song The Twelve Days of Christmas, '...my true love brought to me nine...' what? 6. Name the original eight reindeer from the 'Twas the night Before Christmas' poem? 7. Which Christmas carol includes the lyrics '...To save us all from Satan's power, when we were gone astray..'? 8. The character Jack Skellington appears in which 1993 Tim Burton film? 9. What colour are the berries of the mistletoe plant? 10. In the inspirational 1946 film, It's a Wonderful Life, what's the name of George Bailey's guardian angel? 11. What are the names of the three wise men said to have brought gifts to the baby Jesus? 12. What is New Year's Eve called in Scotland? 13. What Christmas item was invented by London baker and wedding-cake specialist Tom Smith in 1847? 14. In what year was Band-Aid's Do They Know It's Christmas the UK Christmas chart-topping record? 15. In which modern country is St Nicholas's birthplace and hometown? 16. Who wrote How the Grinch Stole Christmas? 17. From which country does the poinsettia plant originate? 18. Who is officially credited as the author of Auld Lang Syne? 19. How many points does a snowflake have? 20. What is the name of the cake traditionally eaten in Italy at Christmas?

E F W

I S R

O R K

The nicest thing about the future is that it always starts tomorrow.

36

General Information

Coach trips: See trip information for times. Please ensure that you sit in the seat numbered on your

ticket. We regret that we cannot stop at any other point unless agreed with the organiser, to pick up or

put down. The organiser reserves the right to refuse to include any member they feel is not

sufficiently able-bodied to follow the itinerary. Members are responsible for own travel insurance.

Buying your ticket: Please produce your membership card together with the correct money. Have

prepared your choice of menu if applicable. Final ticket booking: All tickets must be booked and paid

for on or before the last Thursday coffee morning before the event. Late phone bookings cannot be

accepted. Members are advised to attend the last Thursday before a trip in case there are any last

minute alterations.

Refunds: Cannot be given for either deposits or tickets, unless the organiser is notified in time,

always providing the trip is full and a replacement can be found from the waiting list. Tickets are not

transferable to other members without authorisation of the organiser.

Tips: Included in the cost of coach travel and restaurants, but not for hotels.

Smoking: The smoking of tobacco and any other substance is not be permitted anywhere in or on the

premises of The International Club of Estepona, Bahia Dorada.

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed inside the clubhouse. They are permitted on the lower terrace but only

when they are under the owner’s control by being attached to a lead which is held by the owner or

attached to one of the hooks on the wall which are provided for that purpose.

Club magazine by post: If you leave Estepona for longer than a month, your magazine can be

posted. Please hand stamped envelopes (correct stamps in Euros), to Terry Smith. On the reverse,

please write the months you wish to receive, they will be posted to you as soon as they are issued.

Parking: When visiting the club please park considerately between white lines and never

on yellow lines.

ACTIVITY ORGANISERS Art Group Regina Stall 663 557 738 Books Peter Galloway 952 794 270 Bowls Reg Astle Bridge…”Duplicate” Tim Taminiau 951 277 113 Computer Group, Posters Vic Loughran 952 886 772 Film Night Sue Potter 637 148 660 952 892 386

Gardening Group Sandy Avis 952 897 309 Genealogical Dave Hackett 952 893 965 Golf Organiser Alan Davis 699 712 804 952 897 670 ICE Players (Drama Group) Margaret Hall 634 273 194 Keep Fit Sue Jenkins-Better 952 806 922 Ladies’ Book Club Krista Carter 696 259 644 951 277 240 Ladies’ Lunches Margaret Whittley 634 328 114 951 972 577

Lottery Organiser Mavis Tolfree 952 792 454

Quiz Night, Songs of Praise, Art Class Joan Thompson 653 488 030 952 804 799

Rambling Sue Potter 637 148 660 952 892 386 Spanish Lessons Martin Holmes 607 963 254 952 892 163 Stitch & Bitch Nina Taminiau 951 277 113 Ticket Sales Joanna Mitchell 952 897 977 Ticket Sales, Advertising Manager Jackie Simmonds 652 798 107 952 797 921 Ticket Sales Patricia Smith 677 656 319 951 276 690 Videos Roger Richards 952 891 765 Whist Ian & Lin Ingram 669 661 660 952 796 150

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CLUB COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Doug Mitchell 667 998 800 952 897 977

VICE-PRESIDENT Sue Potter 637 148 660 952 892 386

SECRETARY Joan Thompson 653 488 030 952 804 799

TREASURER Ted Lunniss 608 601 230 952 923 892

MAGAZINE EDITOR Terry Smith 677 656 319 951 276 690 CATERING MANAGER Brenda Taylor 654 579 492 952 805 739

HOUSEKEEPER Margaret Whittley 634 328 114 951 972 577

MEMBER (Estepona) Julie Wood 639 542 387 952 913 174

MEMBER Diane Hackett 626 080 829 952 893 965

MEMBER (Theatre Liaison) Keith H. Ranshaw 951 977 223

NON COMMITTEE POSTS

LOCAL KEY HOLDER Nigel Nevshehir 689 457 410 952 791 449

(If available)

MAINTENANCE MANAGER Rob Potter 671 725 243 952 892 386

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARIES Margaret Whittley 634 328 114 951 972 577

(Temporary) Tracy Bird

BAR MANAGER Mac McIntyre 610 047 228 952 808 556 ASST BAR MANAGER VACANCY

AUDITOR Ron Pegrum 680 718 990 952 891 175

ASST. TREASURER Vic Loughran 952 886 772

PUBLICITY VACANCY

WELFARE: Members are requested to notify our welfare officer, Barbara Salisbury

if they know of any member who is ill. 952 796 368, email salsbarb@yahoo.co.uk

HOSTESS : Introduce new members : - Maureen Baldwin-Winckle 952 791 812 MAGAZINE ADVERTISING RATES AS FROM 1ST JANUARY 2011

For adverts presented in desired layout, includes inclusion on our web site with

links to your site if applicable. Classified Ads: Members Only, Free

Quarter page - 6€ per month - colour 7€ per month

Half page - 12€ per month- colour 14€ per month Full page - 24€ per month - colour 28€ per month

(Discounts:- for 6 months 10%, and for the whole year 20%)

PLEASE NOTE: Colour is only available to inside front and rear cover pages and rear cover, also adjacent to centre pages.

Advertising fees to be prepaid before the 20th of the month to:- Jackie Simmonds, Advertising Manager, Tel. 952 797 921 or 652 798 107

Copy to be in before the 15th of any month, for inclusion in the following month’s issue.

Copy can be e-mailed to: - terrysmith@siberme.com

ICE (Siberme) accepts no responsibility for contents of any advertisement appearing.

INTERNATIONAL CLUB OF ESTEPONA (Siberme) I.C.E. Clubhouse, Urbanisation Bahia Dorada, Entrada 5, at Km. 149, A 7, Estepona 29680 Malaga

Clubhouse: Telephone 952 802 549 ICE Web Site: www.siberme.com

Email: clubsiberme@hotmail.com

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Leisure Page Quiz Answers:

1. 26th December 2. Jacob Marley 3. Holiday Inn 4. Norway 5. Ladies dancing

6. Comet, Cupid, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Donner, Blitzen 7. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen 8. The Nightmare before Christmas 9. White 10. Clarence (Oddbody)

11. Balthasar, Melchior, Caspar 12. Hogmanay 13. Christmas cracker 14. 1984 15. Turkey, Demre, Antalya Province 16. Dr Seuss 17. Mexico

18. Robert Burns 19. Six 20. Panettone

JUST FOR A SMILE

One Sunday morning, a priest decided to do something a little different. He said, 'Today, in church, I am going to say a single word and you are going to help me preach. Whatever single word I say, I want you to sing whatever hymn that comes to your mind.' The pastor shouted out 'CROSS.' Immediately the congregation started singing in unison, 'THE OLD RUGGED CROSS.' The pastor hollered out 'GRACE.' The congregation began to sing 'AMAZING GRACE, how sweet the sound.' The pastor said 'POWER.' The congregation sang 'THERE IS POWER IN THE BLOOD.' The Pastor said 'SEX' The congregation fell into total silence. Everyone was in shock. They all nervously began to look around at each other, afraid to say anything. Then all of a sudden, way from in the back of the church, a little old 87 year old grandmother stood up and began to sing 'MEMORIES.' Gotta Love Little Old Ladies. Submitted by Bob Culley

You know your child is computer crazy when….. …..they take it to bed with them…..you can’t understand a word of their friends conversation…..they hate going to the beach because there are no power points…..you wish you had never bought them the

blasted thing in the first place. What I don’t understand is if the com-puter is so damned clever, how come it gets blamed for all the mistakes. Hear about the boy who told his teacher he was off school as he had caught a computer virus.

Submitted by Annette Holmes

Word grid: 9-letter word - FIREWORKS

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Living alone or caring for a partner. Don’t see another person on a regular day to day basis.

For just 42 cents a day We will telephone you each morning at a time of your

choice. Ascertain you are okay! If not, or no answer

We will contact your emergency service to instigate assistance.

That might be your friend, neighbour, key holder or emergency service such as Helicopteros Sanitarios.

Feel safe knowing we care We will keep all your services on file, and much more.

Just a quick call to you each day will take away worries and concerns you may have.

We all know someone who is alone, or caring for somebody, this service is custom-made for them. All areas covered. Contact us now for more

information. Dial whole number – 34951088776

Mobile 658 027 426 Email: morningcallcostadelsol@gmail.com

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