S T A R G A Z I N G *****

Early risers are in for a treat this week, just before sunrise at 07.00 hrs. There are a total of seven planets in the early morning sky. Venus, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, (Uranus and Neptune beyond the range of amateur telescopes) and Pluto (technically is not classed as a planet anymore).

Astronomical Society
Octagon bar, can be found on the Fuengirola to Mijas road next to the Valparaiso restaurant and Splash Pools.
If you would like to be kept up to date or take part in any of the events then go to www.kencampbell.info

AUTISMO MARBELLA

http://www.autismoaaar.blogspot.com/


I’ve been busy setting up a blog for our local Autistic Association in Marbella. Incorporated is a Google translator facility for anyone who is not 100% sure with Spanish. For some reason I think this is going to be slow start as I need to explain to the other mothers how blogger works, for me it’s user friendly, however for those that are not computer orientated, then initially it will be daunting.

The aim of the blog is to share typical information that would not normally be included in our main association website. For example I spoke to one father the other week and he said “I want to know a good dentist but more importantly one that can handle our kids?” or “where can I find good gluten free bread?”. So we will be adding questions, answers, experiences along our journey. Plus any other information that parents wish to share, maybe tips on hair washing, or the dreaded teens and hormonal stage, how do you cope or could be an inspiring story etc.

http://www.autismoaaar.blogspot.com/

Waiting for the Decking

San Pedro de Alcántara

(Marbella) Andalucia
The beach in San Pedro, Marbella, has two ramps offering access for wheelchair users. These photographs were taken two weeks ago. The usual wooden decking leading down to the sea shore from the cement ramp has not yet been installed.

I will be keeping a keen eye on this zone and will update this blog as soon as I see any changes, otherwise the Town Hall will be notified. There is plenty of parking space right next to the beach.

Here is the link for the official website on beaches.

School Garden Workshop for the Autistic Children

http://www.lavozdigital.es/jerez/20090421/local/cadiz/proyecto-jardinaria-asociacion-autistas-200904211051.html (original text in Spanish)

El proyecto de jardinaría de la Asociación de Autistas cuenta ya con aula propia
21.04.09 - 10:52 -
N.A. Cádiz

This is a wonderful idea set up in Cadiz, Andalucia

The autistic children of Cádiz now have a new space to carry out the project of gardening. The school Gadir inaugurated yesterday some new installations, that have been built for the City Hall of Cadiz and whose act included the presence of lieutenant of mayoress of Mercedes Colombo Family Area, and the councilman of Urban Maintenance, Juan Antonio Guerrero.

This project is being carried out during the present school course, integrating the autistic students with students of grade five, Primary School, under the supervision of the teacher of Autism Mª del Carmen Eslava Rodríguez and the narrow contribution of the tutor of 5º grade of Primary School and the Autistic Educator.

In this workshop activities are carried out as to work the land, to plant trees and seeds, to paint, to devise placards relating to the theme in English and Spanish and a great quantity of activities. In the project they have been invested more than 28,000 euros that have permitted the restructuring of the classroom encloses upon citing school. With this budget different works through the Municipal Delegation of Urban Maintenance have been carried out.

Interesting local events

ESTEPONA BOOK FAIR There's an open air book fair situated in the town's Calle Real. Various booksellers will be present and the Fair which opens on the 14th April will run until the 3rd of May 2009.

PROFESSIONAL TRAINING AND SELF EMPLOYED FAIR 21-23 April 2009
Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella
As you know, training has become one of the most effective tools for improving opportunities in work and business. Information about 25 professional degrees will be presented and with various business presentations, seminars and lectures by experts in areas such as training, contracts, entrepreneurial talent, academic and corporate direction, etc.

The Sharks Exposed

Yesterday I picked up a copy of a very interesting magazine called Costa del Sol Action Group, issue no. 3, headed The Sharks Exposed. On one side I congratulate the team behind this excellent and extremely informative magazine. On the other side of the fence, it unfortunately reminds me of the blacker side of our society, yes those damn sharks, greed, fraud, financial disaster and the heart breaking stories from the countless victims who have been sucked into their hungry razor sharp mouths.

CDSAG lists all licensed and unlicensed Financial Advisors;
Court action taken against various companies that are accused of trading unlawfully in Spain without Licences, and mis-selling;
The Dangers of Equity Release;
How to find a Registered Lawyer;
Financial Advisors to stay well clear of, etc..

PLEASE PLEASE reflect very carefully before you embark on any financial investment. Think beyond the carrot, Take your time, Do your homework, ASK questions, Do not presume, Contact CDSAG for sound advice and give yourself and your family peace of mind.

Remember this Chinese proverb ..........
A man who asks a question is a fool for 5 minutes
A man who asks no question is a fool for life.

I will place a direct link (see Right Column links)
to CDSAG website www.costa-action.co.uk.
Contact:
John Parsons: 952 884 261
JohnP@costa-action.co.uk
Sharon Macnish: 952 868 873
Sharon@costa-action.co.uk
Ian Selley: 952 882 324

Semana Santa - Holy Week

A week of emotion and devotion with processions, prays and other religious activities.


If it is your first visit I will fill you in with some hints for any specials in your group. There will be crowds of people, loud noises from the accompanying bands, especially banging drums and many roads being blocked.

However, it is also a very special time of sharing, reflection, love, spirit, patience and hope, something that should not be missed if you are in the area.