Campsite Courier June 2003
EDITORIAL
Farewell Courier. We’ve had a fairly good relationship over the past five years but it’s beginning to wane a bit. I’m getting a bit stale and don’t produce you anywhere nearly as good as I did in those early years, and you’re becoming a bit of a monthly chore. So it’s time we divorced, Amicably of course! However I do have some things to say in my last editorial, so let’s get on with it. First, I appreciate Anthony and Shirley’s trust in me all those years ago, and more than that I appreciate the editorial freedom I have been given. I know a lot of people don’t really believe it, or they haven’t when I’ve written this before, but apart from Anthony and Shirley’s Message each month, I decide what goes in the Courier and what doesn’t. In 47 editions of the Courier there have been an infinitesimal number of disputes about the content. But, always they have both said “You’re the editor you decide.”
On to other things. I am reliably informed by one of the residents that if you use Spantel to telephone a number in the UK that begins with 08, you will be charged €1.75 per minute rather than the normal charge of €0.09 per minute. Naturally the person concerned complained to Spantel, and was told that they had only just discovered that this extra charge was levied at Spantel by Telefonica. Personally, I think Spantel should meet this charge out of their profits until such times as they have informed their clients about this new charge. They are otherwise breaking their contract because there is nothing in the contract about ‘08’ numbers. Spantel say they are going to inform all their clients, but I’ve heard nothing yet. Anyone else had a notifation? I’m beginning to be a little sorry that I recommended them in a previous Courier. I shall send them a copy of this edition with this section of the editorial highlighted. Incidentally 08 numbers, it would appear, are business numbers, Brittany Ferries is an example. So beware when you telephone a number beginning with 08.
Whatever happened to the ‘Talisman’ of late. The editor Petter Finne asks to be notified of events of interest, both in the ’Advertiser’ and the ’Talisman, so that such events can be covered. Whatever happened to the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations organised by Ray and Joan. Petter could hardly be unaware of it because it was advertised in his publication, and he was sent a compact disk full of pictures Certainly neither he nor any of his staff came to cover this fantastic event. It seem to me that when singers come all the way from Ireland just to support a one day event, you would think it might merit a mention. Perhaps, it is so long since he’s been here he’s forgotten where Camping Los Gallardos is. If that’s the case I’d be happy to send him a map. Sorry, it’s not on the Playa. The pity is that Ray and Joan, who put in so much hard work, didn’t get a mention in what is supposed to be our local English journal. Another highlighted copy to send out.
Just out of interest I reprint this small ad from the ‘Euro Weekly.’ “We could not get Shaun Peters to sing at the ‘Five Bone Hotel.’ So instead for the month of August we have Boris the baritone Borzoi, accompanied by Helena the howling Husky. Don’t miss out. Bookings being taken now. Every night is Canine Karaoke night at the ‘Five Bone.’” Pity dogs are not allowed near the swimming pool otherwise we might have Boris and Helena to entertain us on Bar-B-Cue Night!
Good advice from Anthony and Shirley in their letter sent with the electric and water bills. (Good way to make sure everyone gets a copy, perhaps that’s how future copies of the Courier should be delivered). The advice to drink plenty really does mean water, not going to the bar every day and consuming vast quantities of alcohol. And for someone who sells the stuff that’s not only good advice but also altruistic! Covering your head is another essential, especially if you have as little hair as me! The sun coming toward the middle of June is at it’s most dangerous. Also the 10 khp speed limit which I must have mentioned in at least 30 of the 47 Couriers I’ve published, all to no avail. In spite of what Vic Parsons says in his report about bowlers being human I would say so are Stirling Moss and the Schumackers, because the worst culprits at breaking the 10 khp speed limit are the bowlers, principally those who don’t live on the campsite. Mind you the management and staff could set a better example! I feel sorry for those people whose caravans are behind the main road, because they are constantly being showered with dust. I guess this is another plea to fall on deaf ears, but who would begrudge me this last opportunity to have a moan!
Thank you to all those who came to the party to celebrate our thirtieth wedding anniversary, and although we said no presents, you obviously didn’t read the invitation cards any more than you read the Courier. So thank you for all those bottles of alcohol, which, if I take Anthony and Shirley’s advice to drink water, will last at least until our next anniversary!
How we vote at election time really is a secret, but I’m sorry that the party I voted for (which included our wonderful chef Francisco) didn’t win because at least Francisco would have some excuse for ‘cooking’ the books if you’ll forgive the pun!
This time of the year sees the campsite emptying rapidly. So few people here but to those of you who have yet to leave I wish you a safe journey and look forward to seeing you later in the year
Finally, our Harry ‘The Trumpet’ is in hospital to have a hip replacement. The Courier, The Jackson family and everyone who knows you wishes you a speedy recovery. Joyce says with your new hip and her new knee at least you’ll have one good leg between you. Get well soon. Ed
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor,
Re your headline news in the May edition of the Courier. Thank you for your bravery (Not me, I’m a devout coward Ed ) in speaking out about the endless gossip on the campsite. Life is too short to indulge in such gossip, when in Spain we should be like the Spanish people, one big happy family. I agree that the Jackson family have worked very hard over the years to create an environment which has brought campers back year after year. Now we have the development of the mobile homes, the success of which is obvious because people still want to buy them even though there are none left. The Jacksons have worked very hard to create an English village in the sun, and they deserve the fruits of their labours.
Jo Turner
(This letter, long enough to fill the Courier, has been severely edited. I only hope Jo that I have been able to convey your message adequately. Ed)
Dear Editor
It’s great to see all the improvements to Camping Los Gallardos, and I refer especially to the tarmac on the new road. Now this road is no longer a dirt track I would ask the residents of Los Gallardos Leisure to use it when using the campsite facilities rather than going through the campsite which has seen an increasing amount of traffic over the last two years. Also I would remind people that there is a 10 kph speed limit on the campsite, and if you change out of first gear YOU ARE GOING TOO FAST. Malcolm C Bullen, Pitch 106
(Again a much edited letter, but the sentiments are those with which I entirely agree. You certainly can’t get out of first gear without exceeding the speed limit. Glad I’m not the only one to gripe! Ed)
ALMERIA LAWN BOWLING CLUB
As you are all aware this is the last Campsite Courier edited by Brian Wreford. Brian has constantly nagged me for some input to this paper, I thought I’d better do as I was told, who would dare not to!!! It is hard to include anything, which would interest non-bowlers, butIwill try. You will see by this report there are many campers, familiar names, included.
We have had a very busy winter with lots going on. Successes and the not so good results. We started with the winning of the Andalucian Championship rinks by Colin Wright (skip) Roy and Patsy Tonkin, Pat Beattie. Roy and Patsy were also losing finalists in the Pairs. Norman and Maureen Atkins won the Open Pairs at Cabrera. Terry Rodgers was part of the team that won this years Friendship Cup ( All clubs in Spain competing) Our own internal club results were very well attended. All results and reports of course were published in the Talisman written by our own Tony Schorah.
Highlights of the social scene was our Annual Presentation Dinner and Dance, held at the Kimrick in February, arranged by social secretary June Wheeler. The St Patrick’s fabulous weekend organised by Ray and Joan Herrity (Leprechauns) where we did our part by having a fun day match on the Saturday.
We have seen a few brand new people trying the game ably coached by Norman Atkins, not as many as expected, but remember you are always welcome. Please see Norman, Tony Schorah or myself in the first instance to explain the requirements.
I know most campers’ opinions are not high of bowlers, something, which is hard to understand. We are all human and do not wish to segregate ourselves in any way. We support the functions well, the ‘third half’ (in the bar after our competitions and roll up days) Our latest input is, during the winter season, the bowling area has been giving a new look. This done by seats for you to be spectators (with cushions) and enjoy the newly painted walls, sheds and club house surroundings. All done and largely financed by club members. Thanks to Anthony, Shirley and the dedicated work of our green keeper Terry Rodgers our new green will hopefully be ready for bowling in the autumn. We look forward to seeing more campers who are not yet bowlers becoming so.
Throughout the summer, on Monday mornings the ‘Eleanor McCraw’ pairs competition takes place for members together with at all times the new singles competition, ‘The Reliant Trophy’ sponsored by the Tony and June Wheeler. Please come and support.
I am off to England for the ‘English summer’ and look forward to returning in the autumn. Have a nice retirement Brian and mine’s a San Miguel.
Vic Parsons (Club Captain)
STAFF PROFILE
This month’s staff profile is about Gareth Foster, the new Shop Manager. Gareth shown here (on the left ) enjoying a Singapore Sling, the editor’s bar speciality. This is not how you usually see him. On most mornings and evenings you will find Gareth in the shop serving customers in his very quiet and efficient way. Gareth was born in Zambia. He went to Rhodesia, as it then was, to go to school and college and was there from 1972 until 1997 by which time Rhodesia had become Zimbabwe. In 1997 when he left Zimbabwe the exchange rate was 18 Zimbabwean dollars to the £1. It is now 2,500 Zimbabwean dollars to the £1 . I don’t think there has been inflation like that since the Weimar Republic! Gareth remains well informed about what goes on in Zimbabwe because his parents are still there. Fortunately they are unaffected by the present troubles, but do complain about inflation when some prices go up 300% in a week. They live a long way from Harare the capital.
Before Gareth left Zimbabwe he was manager of a restaurant where he met Lisa who was also working there. Lisa and he married in 1996 They left Zimbabwe in 1997 and moved to Devonshire and bought a house. It was there that their first child was born, a girl named Erin who is now three years old. Gareth had two jobs whilst he was in Devon, first he worked in a ‘Call Centre’ and later became a Client Services Manager for a marketing company. Both he and Lisa began to realise that England isn’t any longer the place it used to be, as he says “We had to work all the hours God sends just to stay still.” A complaint reiterated to me by many of my younger friends in the UK. So Gareth and Lisa sold their house in Devon and moved in January of this year to the Costa Blanca. It was very cold there and they heard that this part of Spain was much warmer so the three of them Gareth, Lisa and Erin moved into Andalucia. They now live in Turre, but are buying a village house in Carriatiz. At first Gareth worked in an Estate Agents, but fortunately he had also advertised in the local press that he was looking for work. Even more fortunately Shirley Jackson saw the advertisement, and gave Gareth a ring, and of course as we now know, a job.
Gareth is now ‘Shop Manager.’ and I can only speak for myself but, I’m sure everyone who uses the campsite shop will agree with me when I say that Gareth has a very pleasant disposition, he is always courteous, polite and yet friendly. He is always helpful and nothing seems to be too much trouble. I for one hope he stays with us for a long time to come. He is pictured with Lisa and Erin, his family (Above Right. His photo not mine, I don’t cut people’s heads off!)
Satellite TelevisionSome of you may be experiencing difficulties with satellite television and radio reception, especially in the mornings. Sorry,I can’t help, what I know about satellite you could write on a postage stamp and still leave room for a Shakespeare play! But, I reprint this from a recent edition of the Radio Times, and I quote.
I hear that at the end of May BBC channels will be unencrypted. What does this mean?
James Martin, Reading Berkshire.
At the moment you need a special ‘encryption card’ slotted into you satellite receiver box to view certain channels, including the BBC’s. It’s there so that your set knows your post code and can send you your local (Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales) variation of the channels on satellite TV (although you’ll still need to keep the card for ITV1 and Channels four and five).
Well, first it’s not likely to be May. The change of date is because the BBC also wants, ideally, to stay on the same channels as at present on the Sky electronic programme guide: BBC1 is on 101, BBC2 on 103, BBC3 on 160, and BBC4 on 161. But it’s not that simple. The ITC which is negotiating between Sky and the BBC, has proposed the deadline is pushed back until agreement is reached. So watch this space.
If channel numbers do change when the BBC broadcasts “in the clear” you’ll need to amend you ‘favourites list’( which generally involves calling up ‘lists’ on the menu and selecting new channel numbers).
If you’re one of the Sky viewers who “presses the red button” during BBC regional news bulletins to call up alternative local news services (popular with away from constituency politicians and homesick migrants), unencryption will mean this service being replaced. Once unencryption has been sorted, the regional services will start to get their own channel numbers until eventually you can choose virtually whichever of the fifteen regional versions of BBC you want, from anywhere in the country.
Pick the bones out of that Ed, OR THIS FROM THE POSTBBC PULLS PLUG ON SPANISH VIEWERS
Viewers of BBC Digital TV found their screens blanked out on Wednesday. BBC 1 & 2 were the first to stop emitting signals as UK engineers began testing strengths on the Astra 2D satellite, whose footprint limits reception to the UK and peripherally to northern Europe and the Pyrenees. BBC Digital radio stations went off the air on Friday morning. Expatriate subscribers from the politely bemused to the incandescently irate besieged local installers’ telephone lines for an explanation from equally confused staff, many of whom believed the shutdown was only temporary. However, it has been said that the satellite switch is permanent and the testing period is for the benefit of UK viewers, whose programmes continue uninterrupted. Information received from Astra satellite engineers in the UK confirmed that the BBC was obliged to cease transmissions on the broader 2A satellite by the end of May necessitating a trial period of around 1o days. An earlier internet posting, which extended the switchover to July 14th due to a listings squabble with BSkyB, confused the issue further. The BBC was officially unavailable for comment, but a spokesman said “As far as the Corporation is concerned, our viewers in the UK have suffered no problems. Our programmes were never destined for Europe in the first place so we have no comment to make.”
QUOTABLE QUOTES
“Imagination is more important than knowledge” Albert Einstein“Keep your friends close, but keep your enemies closer” Sicilian Proverb
“The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it” Sydney J Harris
(I am grateful to Malcolm Bullen for submitting these quotes. Obviously the last one is for Shirley! Ed)
RAY’S QUOTE FOR THE MONTH
Why do men die before their wives?
Because they want to!
INAL “STELLA” AWARDS
Amber Carson of Lancaster Pennsylvania was awarded $113,500 after she slipped on a spilt drink in a fast food restaurant and fractured her coccyx. The stuff was on the floor because the lady had thrown it at her boy friend just 30 seconds before!Kara Walton of Delaware was awarded $12,000 from the owner of a night club, plus the cost of replacing two new front teeth, after she fell off the sill of a window in the ladies’ room. She had been trying to sneak in at the time to avoid paying the $3.50 cover charge.
(Thanks to Ray and Joan for these. That’s the lot unless you or they know of any more ridiculous awards which have become known as “Stella” awards. If you do give them to the new Editor) Ed
MESSAGE FROM ANTHONY SHRLEY AND BENJAMIN
June has arrived and with it the end of Brian Wreford’s time as editor of the Campsite Courier. On behalf of all its readers we thank him most sincerely for all the hard work he has done in producing such a professional, informative and entertaining publication. He has promised to consider coming back after a year’s rest and we very much hope he will do so. Meanwhile Anthony & Shirley will try to keep up the good work and will be grateful for all contributions from campers. We will continue to include items that we do not necessarily agree with (like last month’s spoof sale rumour for instance!) and try to keep everyone up to date on happenings on the campsite.We still have a lot of people on the campsite and there is still lots going on:
This Saturday we held our first barbecue with Shaun Peters providing the music. These proved extremely popular last year and will be a regular feature, normally on Saturday, this year.
Games night continues on Wednesdays although, with the reduced numbers taking part, it’s just for fun with no entry fee and no prizes.
In the summer most people like to eat later so the early eater’s menu has been replaced for the time being by the ‘Daily Special’, offering a different main course each day for €5.00
The swimming pool is proving popular in the recent hot weather and this year we have decided to restrict the use to campers, residents and bowling club members only. Between 4.00pm and 5.00pm each day the pool is reserved for those over 30 years of age only (not in August though). Pool open 9.30 am till 9.00pm. Small children must not be left unattended at any time.
Remember that all the meals on the restaurant menu are available for take away. Spit roast chickens and jacket potatoes and hot pies are available to order from the shop.
Paella (24 hour notice) and sangria give a special Spanish feel to your holidays!
Once again many, many thanks to Editor Brian
Anthony, Shirley, David & Benji.
your contribution, the monthly “Message From Anthony Shirley and Benjamin” arrived last. That’s why you invariably find yourselves on page three or four, there never has been anything personal about your location in the Courier. However, from now on you can have the front page all to yourselves! I didn’t realise that you were going to say all those nice things about me and still call me editor instead of Ex editor. But my editorship hasn’t been entirely altruistic, I’ve actually enjoyed it. My thanks are in the editorial Ex-Ed