JUST A TASTE

My grandchildren are surrounded by people who love them very much and are able to care for them and give lots of hugs and kisses. When I heard a Radio 4 appeal about children of the same ages in such a different situation in Moldova that I cried. These children are taken to orphanages by their families who cannot cope. Without love and stimulation they just sit in their cots and learn not to cry.

I decided I had to do something to help. This year, launched under the name Just a Taste I am making delicious round Mini West Indian Christmas Cakes. Home made and decorated in red, silver or gold they are just the right size to treat yourself and would make ideal presents for family, friends, staff and clients.

Having discussed the matter with the organisation EveryChild , the organisation behind the appeal, I decided to fund a social worker at the Infant Abandonment Project in Moldova to work with the families and the orphanages. Each cake costs €7 and all proceeds from the sale of the cakes will go towards this project.

Just a Taste will be at the Network Fair on Dec 1st at the Hotel Garbe. The cakes can also be purchased from Bar Bacchus at Porches Pottery and Let the Magic In, Algoz.

EveryChild – working for a world where children are safe and secure
http://www.everychild.org.uk/

Orders very welcome
Contact Verna Kinder 282 449395 pvkinder@mail.telepac.pt

Computer Training Success

Congratulations to the participants of the first one day computer training courses run by Kerhen Dalton of Protech Training at the Hotel Garbe. The course content included becoming proficient with e-mails, managing files & folders, surfing the net and word processing.

And congatulations to Kerhen - the feedback was wonderful - The computer training was "10 out of 10 - previously used books and friends' input, but this was really hands on, very good"

The next Course is on 21st November, 2007 for more information or to book, please telephone 282 320260

Weight Management

The second seminar .....introducing the most effective way ever to manage weight from the head down ...change your life by changing your mind - exciting effective seminars now in the Algarve...brought to you by Insight Life and Business Solutions - enjoy!

Book your space at our Christmas Fair

Our annual Christmas Fair will be held on the 1st December 2007 at the Hotel Garbe from 11:00 to 17:00.

Prices for spaces are as follows:

Members: €45.00
Non-members: 60.00

Book now.

Paulette Fouché - Co-ordinator
Tel/Fax: 282 415 843 - Email: info@networkalgarve.org pfouche@clix.pt

Literary Event - Thursday, 15th November, 2007

Eça de Queiroz

Considered one of the greatest novelists of the 19th century José Maria Eça de Queiroz, or simply Eça de Queiroz as he is better known, was born in 1845 in Póvoa de Varzim, a small fishing town, as the illegitimate son of a prominent magistrate.

Author of several novels, most translated into English, Eça published great works of literature, some of which would not go into print until after his death in 1900. Among others The Maias, one of his best known novels, was written during his 15 years working as a consul in England, a country he often analysed as fiercely as he did his own.

A great observer and a critic, Eça’s writing is stylish but not heavy. With a great dosage of humour and a pinch of cynicism, his novels and texts are far from belonging in the past. While reading his work one realises, almost shockingly, that the past is still happening today.

Find out more

On November 15th 2007, Dr. Ana Luísa Vilela, a lecturer at the University of Évora will be at the Hotel Garbe to unveil the author behind the books. Holding a doctorate in Portuguese Literature and having specialised in Queiroz's work, Dr. Ana Vilela has published various articles about this author in Portugal and abroad.This is a great opportunity for everyone who wants to take a closer look at Portugal and its society: looking at the past to understand the present. For those of you who are already familiar with Eça’s works – and many books have been sold here in the Algarve – this is an excellent opportunity to learn a bit more.

Times as follows:

10.30am: Introduction and documentary about Eça de Queiroz

12.30pm: Lunch

2pm: Talk about Eça's life and work followed by time for discussion and questions.

Ticket Price: 34€ (includes lunch) - available from Magna Carta Bookshop

Tel. 282 496 001

**Booking in advance is necessary.

Please book your place at the event by 5th November.**

Members News - Kahren Dalton

Courses at the Hotel Garbe

Become proficient with e-mails, managing your files & folders, surfing the net and word processing

One Day Course: 10:00–12:00 and 13:30–15:30 (4 hours)
Lunch (included) 12:00–13:30

Course Dates:
24th October, 2007
21st November, 2007
20th February, 2008
26th March, 2008

Cost per Person: 90 Euros

Price Includes: 4 Hrs Training by MS Master Instructor
Relaxing Lunch Period between sessions
Protech Training Proficiency Certificate

For more information/booking:
Tel: 282 320260 or
Email: info@hotelgarbe.com

Members News - Jeanette Elliott

The popular Middle Eastern (Bellydance) Dancing classes have resumed in the Raj at the Garbe after the summer break. New students are already enrolling for the beginner’s level class which is held on alternate Monday afternoons from 2-4 p.m.

If you have always fancied yourself swirling chiffon veils why not come along and have a go or surprise someone you know would love to take part and book a session for them. It could be a fabulous idea for a present.

Intermediate level classes are continuing on alternate Saturday mornings as before from 10-12. Pupils with some experience in dance are welcome to join in.


A new beginner’s level class might be in the pipeline to follow the Saturday session.

If you are interested please contact Jeanette on 286512679.

Private lessons can also be arranged.

Invitation to seminar on exciting medical innovations

Invitation


We cordially invite you to 2 seminars to be held at Vila Vita Parc Hotel, Alporchinos, Porches, 8400-450 Algarve. Portugal, on Friday, September 14th and Thursday September 27th.

September 14th “Thermal Image Processing”
The latest concept in early diagnosis of Breast Cancer, using Infra-red therapy in conjunction with holistic therapies. Infra-red therapy can also be used to diagnose other medical problems in the body.

Speaker.Dr. Schlebusch/Prof. Popp
Time: 18-00 hrs.

September 27th “Stem cell harvesting using skin tissue samples”
Stem cells established in the skin can develop into any human organic tissue and can therefore help in the regeneration of cells and organs within the body at a later date.

Speaker.Dr. Ganss
Time: 18-00 hrs

Both these seminars should be of extreme interest as they will give us the opportunity to learn about latest technology within these fields of medicine.

There will no charge to attend these seminars, but a monetary donation would be appreciated.
Please reply to Dr. Bianca Toebben by e-mail mail@dr-bianca-toebben.de
Or by telephone to: 914 635 661
Acceptances must be confirmed 2 weeks prior to the date of each seminar.
We look forward to your company at these events.

Barbeque nights at the Hotel Garbe

During the summer - every Wednesday and Saturday

Guests from both within the hotel and from outside, can enjoy the sumptuous tastes of the juicy meats, piri piri chicken and fresh fish, not forgetting the tasty salads and mouth-watering table of deserts.

As always the enviable terrace and restaurant of `Por do Sol´ is the setting and Sangria will be flowing the whole evening long.

LIVE MUSIC FOR DANCING
7:30 p.m €: 25,00 per person

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To book - please call 282 320260 - or send e-mail to info@hotelgarbe.com

Winter Workshops at the Hotel Garbe

This winter the Hotel Garbe will once again run its programme of leisure workshops.

The courses are available to local residents, as well as our hotel guests, and make an ideal gift for friends and relatives giving them the chance to indulge their creative side. Please be aware that these courses are expected to fill very quickly and each has a maximum capacity, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Here are the dates:-

25th, 26th 28th and 29th September – Leisure Painting
15th, 16th, 17th and 19th October – Leisure Painting
Saturdays, 20th and 27th October, 2007 – Creative Writing
Wednesday, 7th November – Introduction to Travel Photography
Monday, 12th and Tuesday, 13th November – Introduction to Portuguese Wine
Tuesday 13th and Thursday 15th November, 2007– Creative Writing
19th, 20th, 22nd and 23rd November – Leisure Painting
Wednesday, 21st November – Introduction to Travel Photography
Wednesday, 5th December – Introduction to Travel Photography
Saturdays 8th and 15th December, 2008– Creative Writing
Wednesday, 19th December – Introduction to Travel Photography
Wednesday, 2nd January – Introduction to Travel Photography
Wednesday, 16th January – Introduction to Travel Photography
Wednesday, 30th January – Introduction to Travel Photography
11th, 12th, 14th and 15th February, 2008 Garden Design and Appreciation
Tuesday 12th and Thursday 14th February, 2008 – Creative Writing
Wednesday, 13th February – Introduction to Travel Photography
18th, 19th, 20th and 21st February – Plants and Flowers Tour
18th, 19th, 21st and 22nd February – Leisure Painting
Wednesday, 27th February – Introduction to Travel Photography
Saturdays 8th and 15th March, 2008– Creative Writing
Monday, 10th and Tuesday, 11th March – Introduction to Portuguese Wine
10th, 11th, 13th and 14th March – Leisure Painting
Wednesday, 12th March – Introduction to Travel Photography
Wednesday, 27th March – Introduction to Travel Photography
Monday 7th and Friday 11th April, 2008– Creative Writing
Wednesday, 10th April – Introduction to Travel Photography

We are also able to set up course for specific groups – please let us know your requirements.

To book or for more information, please sent e-mail to info@hotelgarbe.com

Wizards and Witches Breakfast

Butterbeer Milkshakes at the Hotel Garbe!!!!!

Join us at the Hotel Garbe Bar Boa Vista on July 21st, from 9am - 1pm

Buy your "Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows" and treat yourself to a wicked breakfast

Butterbeer Milkshakes……… 3,50€
Liquorice Wands………………. 0,50€
Calming Teas………….……….. 2,00€
Cauldron Cake…………....……. 1,50€
Pumpkin Pasties………..……. 2,00€
Coffee with Milk………….…… 2.00€
Fresh Orange Juice…….……. 2,80€
Toast with butter……….……. 2,50€

Hot Chocolate………….…..…. 2,00€
Pancake with honey.............2,50€
Pancake with lemon.......…… 2,50€

Be among the first 20 people to buy your copy of the seventh Harry Potter book and win a Genuine Feather Quill.

Participate in the Harry Potter Look-alike contest - the best will win a Harry Potter Replica Wand

Please contact Susanna at Magna Carta for more information or to reserve your copy of the book now (for collection on 21st July) info@magnacartabookshop.com Tel/Fax: (+351) 282 496 001

Music nights and balmy evenings

Well, it was a great night for the Oo-Boop-I-Do band who performed a cracking concert at the Lagoa Auditorium on 22nd June. Professional, lively, humourous, excellent music, made for a foot tapping good mood event, and there was a good smattering of Network members in the audience. A big well done to the band and to Karen Carfrae for making this event happen - would recommend it to all.

Meanwhile, one of our May guest speakers, Flavio Bucciarelli from the Sheraton, would like us to know about an event at the Sheraton in early August, the Summer Gala, with Lionel Richie, which promises to be a very good night in lovely surroundings.

Win! Win! Win!

The Resident, in association with Magna Carta in Alvor, is offering two students a copy of Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows. Tell your children to tell us, in no more than 150 words (English or Portuguese), who is their favourite character and why, and the best two entries will win a copy of the seventh Harry Potter book. Entries will only be accepted from students aged between 8 and 16. Submit your work to The Resident/Harry Potter Competition, at Rua Visconde de Lagoa, nº2 e 3, 8400-329 Lagoa, at email news@portugalresident.com or fax 282 342 939, no later than June 22.

Roaring Twenties - Book Now!

Central Meeting May 9th

The central meeting on 9th May went with a bang. We were delighted to see new faces there, and were well entertained and informed by Flavio Bucciarrelli, from the Sheraton Hotel, on issues of recruitment. I think we'd all agree that it was refreshing to hear an input on careful and people centred management, so many thanks to Snr Bucciarrelli, no doubt our links with the Sheraton will continue to grow.

Thanks to Kathleen Kuys and Pia Cross for organising the event, and to Don Giovanni's for providing a very nice lunch. The Western Meeting is to be held on 23rd May at Cottons, where Joanna Gardner will be inviting us to look at where we are in our lives now.

GAIM PRESENTATION

Hi all,

I now have a copy of the presentation that Jay Conboy and team made at the Network Open Meeting. Please e-mail me at karmicdoctor@yahoo.co.uk if you would like a copy.
We are also now trying to set up mail accounts for the posts of Co-ordinator and President which are based within the website - e.g info@networkalgarve.org This is a good step forward to giving the public face of Network a constant and more professional identity, so we'll let you know when that has happened.

All for now, Janice.

The Network Open Meeting

We are pleased to report on the overall success of the Network Open Meeting on 18th April. Attendance was round about 80 people, and we were, as ever, indebted to our sponsors, particularly the event sponsors Atelier du Sol, NewlynDevelopmentsPortugal, and OneFone.

The Civil Governor, Dr Antonio Pina, had to rearrange his timetable due to an unexpected call to Lisboa. While we were sorry that he could not stay for questions and answers, we appreciated him doing what he could to ensure that at least we enjoyed delivery of his update on development in the Algarve over the next six years. Dr Pina's personable manner enhanced the content of the talk, and our co-ordinator Paulette Fouche interpreted excellently.

After a very good lunch, Professor Jay Conboy and his team from GAIM informed us on what business development is indicated by the research that has been done to date, and we thank him for being very helpful in how he timed and rearranged his presentation to accommodate all needs. I know that GAIM and Network will continue to support each other into the future.

It seems early days to be thinking about next year's Open Meeting, but it is already on the back burner. We will be considering how to attract more people and perhaps to make the event a little 'different'. All feedback on the meeting or ideas for the future will be most welcome, so don't hold back - either post your comments here or mail them to me, Janice, at karmicdoctor@yahoo.co.uk

More News on 'The Secret'.

"The Secret"

If you are not satisfied with your current life, if you would like to do better, but cannot see any opportunities, if you are worried about your future security, then you MUST see the Secret. The Secret can make all the differences to your life.

Have you seen the Secret?
Do you want to use the Secret to get better results in your life? have you tried to use it and wonder why it is not working for you? Will it help your children to get better results? What is the correct way to create the Life of Your Dreams?
Then participate in the Seminar "Law of Attraction".
It is possibly the most powerful, scientifically backed, method of personal development ever discovered. You need this knowledge to get what YOU want in all areas of your life. If you want changes to your financial status, your relationships, your health your will find answers book for a seminar. For dates please :

Contact: Angela Schulz-Henke, OrgaNice Eventmanagement, Tel. +351 282 495 671, eventmanagement8@aol.com,

Open Meeting: 18th April

We are pleased to announce for our April Meeting a really special opportunity....we are holding an

INNOVATIVE OPEN MEETING: BUSINESS INTERFACES WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND THE MARKET

Network invites the business world and the public to interface with the Civil Governor of the Algarve, and the Marketing and Research Academic Office (GAIM), to interact, learn fascinating information which can help you, to network and to have lunch on

Wednesday, 18^th April 2007 at 12 noon, Hotel Montechorro, Albufeira

Do begin to promote this: it's a great opportunity to listen to up to date info and to ask questions that affect your business. As it replaces the bi-monthly meetings, it's also a great opportunity to meet the 'other half' of the organisation. Look out for further details or contact the Network Co-ordinator, Paulette Fouché at pfouché@clix.pt or 282 415843

Network AGM

The AGM this year was attended by 31 voting members, and all went smoothly with handovers in office being made this year. Thank you for accepting my nomination as President, and I shall do my utmost to do the organisation justice and to serve it, represent it, and lead it forward to the next phase of Network.

A daunting task - Linda Smith has been a brilliant President, and the photograph here of her and Liz Jensen, voted woman of the year 2007, says it all - hard work, commitment, friendship, and fun. Well done to both women, you are great examples.



We said goodbye to some members of council, amongst them Karen Carfrae, Vice President West, and Renette Joubert, from Central. Thank you to everyone for your very hard work over the last two years. We are pleased to welcome Jo Gardner as new Vice President for the West, and Pia Cross, as Vice President Central. I didn't get photos of everyone, I"m afraid, but will no doubt be collecting them! The new fiscal council will consist of Lis Jensen, Marilyn Holmes, and Lynda Morgan. I undestand that the lovely Truus is also staying on.

Okay, will post more as and when, I look forward immensely to us working as a team. I will be posting information on all council members on the Networkalgarve.org website. Keep in touch!

Members News - An opportunity to Network

March Events at Quinta da Calma

Thursday 15
Quinta da Calma Presentation.

Way of Harmony: Qi-Gong Healing Demonstration with Peter Tadd
The second presentation in our series of monthly talks will feature one of our therapists, Peter Tadd.

In his presentation, Peter will introduce a new set of energetic points located on the surface of the skin, which appear at or near the juncture of two or three acupuncture meridians. Because of their special properties they can release emotions and heal traumas on deep emotional and soul levels. These points can be treated with slight finger pressure, crystals or tuning forks, so can be self-treated when needed. Time: 19.30hrs, Meeting House - Free entry

Saturday 17
Monthly Trance Dance Ritual - (Dance of Transformation) with Kalid. An evening ritual into a spiritual journey through body movement using a blindfold, with music and sound effects to reach a deep 'trance' state. 21.00hrs-midnight in Meeting House - €15
For more information on Trance Dance go to www.injoy.pt or call 93 979 76 26

Saturday 17 & Sunday 18
Part III of Clinical Hypnosis Course with Rosário Vilardebó
10.00-18.00hrs in Lotus Room

Wednesday 21
Celebration of Earth Day: The March Equinox (actual time 12.07hrs GMT) determines the annual date for Easter and is also the New Year in Islamic countries. This is a time for us to join with thousands, or even millions of people throughout the world in peaceful thoughts and prayers for care of Earth and peace and justice for all.
Meeting House, 11.30-12.30h. By donation

Thursday 22
Art of Living - Satsang with James & Hannah Latimer
A Satsang is a gathering of people in the name of truth. During the Satsang, there will be chanting, discussions and meditation. Everyone is welcome. Meeting House, 19.30hrs. By donation

Saturday 24
Vegetarian Cookery Course with Tjitske Van Der Weg
A continuation of the course in January, this course goes deeper into exploring how to prepare and cook vegetarian dishes. Anyone can attend.
Price: €45 - Time to be confirmed. Location: Gaia Sol Eatery - Limited spaces available, so book soon!!

Sunday 25
Professional Massage Therapy Training with Eleine Lachance, MA CMT
One Sunday a month for 1 year, 09.00-18.00hrs (further dates to be confirmed).
Total course price (100 hours): 900€. For more information please contact reception.
Dates for Course: 29 Apr; 27 May; 24 Jun; 29 Jul; 26 Aug; 30 Sept; 4 Nov; 2 Dec; 20 Jan; 24 Feb; 23 Mar

Hunger Lunch raises awareness and cash

International Women's Day

From Hunger lunch

Forty women celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8th with a “Hunger lunch” The main purpose of the day was to raise funds for the charity “Friends of Cambodia” Local businesses donated items and the venue, The Hotel Garbe, at Armação de Pera generously covered some of the costs. Combined proceeds from a raffle and the lunch raised a total of 470 euros, which will help provide education and healthcare for young children in Cambodia.

From Hunger lunch

“A little goes a long way” said Geraldine Willcox MBE, who addressed the meeting. Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in the world and its children suffer severely for want of education and basic healthcare. A child can be fed, clothed, housed and educated for 12 euros a month. The audience was visibly moved as they listened to Geraldine describe conditions in the refugee camps she had visited across the poorest parts of Africa and Asia.

For more information see http://www.friendsofcambodia.net/

Network would love to see more of you at next years event. Would an evening suit you better? Give us your comments on the blog.

Members News - Quinta da Calma

Monthly Talk

Thursday, March 15th

Way of Harmony: Qi-Gong
Healing Demonstration
with Peter Tadd

The second presentation in our series of monthly talks will feature one of our therapists, Peter Tadd.

In his presentation, Peter will introduce a new set of energetic points located on the surface of the skin, which appear at or near the juncture of two or three acupuncture meridians. Because of their special properties they can release emotions and heal traumas on deep emotional and soul levels. These points can be treated with slight finger pressure, crystals or tuning forks, so can be self-treated when needed.

19:30hrs in the Meeting House
Entrance free

Peter is available for consultations at Quinta da Calma from Mon. 12 – Weds. 14 March 2007.


About Peter Tadd
Peter has become a regular monthly visitor to Quinta da Calma, where he gives individual sessions in clairvoyant healing.

With his gift of clairvoyance, Peter can see the past very clearly and some of the future, however he uses his gift to support healing treatments and not for predictions, his aim being to instruct and empower the person and the body.

Each session starts with either a list of the client’s prepared questions or a general aura/chakra scan and assessment, from which images and colours emerge in the aura that reveal answers to questions and the strengths and weaknesses within each chakra.

Healing is brought about by balancing the past, present and future. The path of treatment chosen depends on the “presenting physical problems”, life questions and where the trauma is held on the chakra/auric level. In the same session, one or more different treatments are given, depending on the time allowed. Treatment choices are explained and commence with the client’s acceptance, these treatments being the result of Peter’s training and clairvoyant insight.

Charges: 1 hour: €65.00
1.5hrs: €85.00

Please note: Sessions are given in English only; anyone wishing to have a session who does not speak English is asked to bring someone to translate for them.

The Film 'The Secret'

Film “THE SECRET”

If you are not satisfied with your current life, if you would like to do better but can´t see any opportunities, if you are worried about your future security, then you MUST see the Secret. The Secret can make all the difference to your life

17^th of March, 2007 15 h to 17.30 h

Nova Vida, Tunes: Price: 8 €

Please book until 10^th of March

Seminar: „ Law of Attraction“ given by Dr. Veronica Mauvis
14th of April 2007, 10 h to 16 h, at Nova Vida, Tunes
Price : 65,00 € incl. lunch

Have you seen The Secret? Do you want to use The Secret to get better results in your life? Have you tried to use it and wonder why it’s not working for you? Will it help your children to get better results? What is the correct way to create the Life of Your Dreams? The Secret is the film that has been spreading round the world like a bush fire because it opens the door to the real secrets of success all over the world. It is possibly the most powerful, scientifically backed, method of personal development ever discovered. You need this knowledge to get what YOU want in all areas of your life. If you want changes to your financial status, your relationships, your health you will find answers book for the seminar

Please book until 6th of April 2007

See map on www.novavidarecovery.com

Kind regards

Angela Schulz-Henke

OrgaNice Eventmanagement

Members News - Grand Buffet Dinner and Dance

Free Publicity for Network Businesses

Magna Carta Bookshop

Susana Parker is new to Network, having joined last October, and owns Magna Carta bookshop in Alvor. Susana is offering an interesting deal for Network members. She has a space on her website called 'what are they reading', and anyone who sends in a review of their favourite book will receive free publicity on her site. You just need to send a photograph, a book review, and a small write up about your business. Susana's details can be found on her website at www.magnacartabookshop.com

U

International Women's Day - 8th March, 2007

2007 International Women’s Day is Thursday, March 8th. In the Algarve, solidarity with women worldwide will be marked by a hunger lunch and raffle at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pera. The event will be organised by Network, the Algarve Business women’s association.

On arrival, each attendee will take a ticket to determine whether they will receive a three course lunch with wine, one course or just rice and water. It really is the luck of the draw, and for once sharing is strictly forbidden. Imagine an empty bowl in front of you, whilst your lucky companion savours a delicious, aromatic three course meal with wine. It can be easy to forget those less fortunate than ourselves, but a hunger lunch forces us to confront the view seen by those suffering from hunger and thus avoids the “Out of sight, out of mind” syndrome.

Before lunch, Geraldine Willcox MBE (pictured above) will speak about her experiences of world poverty, seen first hand in Bangladesh, Rwanda, Uganda, Niger, South Africa and Bosnia. Geraldine has volunteered for many organisations, frequently working with children and old people. Originally from County Durham, England, Geraldine has mainly lived abroad including 19 years in Japan. She served on the Board of Refugees International in Washington, now retired to the Algarve, Geraldine’s efforts are geared to supporting the hungry children of war-torn Cambodia. Her charity, Friends of Cambodia, was founded in Portugal in 2005 to raise funds for education and healthcare projects.

To book to attend the hunger lunch, which begins at 12.30pm or if you wish to make a donation please call Network co-ordinator Paulette Fouché, tel/fax 282 415 843 e mail pfouche@clix.pt
.
Cost 20 euros. Proceeds will go to Geraldine’s charity.

Network presents cheque to Riding for the Disabled Charity

Rosemary Owen receives the cheque from Linda Smith President of Network.

Network, the Algarve business women’s association chose Riding for the Disabled as it’s charity for 2006. At their February meeting, a cheque was presented to Rosemary Owen from Riding for the disabled. Over the course of the year 1,630 euros was raised mainly by raffles and a tombola at the Christmas fair.

In thanking the association, Rosemary explained, the money will be used to provide over 100 riding lessons for disabled children in the Algarve. “As well as being a valuable therapy- for many children it is also the highlight of their week. For disabled children with limited movement, they have the opportunity to sit up tall and see the world from a completely different aspect.” said Rosemary. One child expressed it poignantly. “When I am in my wheelchair people look down on me-when I am on a horse people look up to me”

Over 40 riders a week benefit from the therapy in the Algarve, which improves co-ordination, concentration and confidence. It is a labour intensive process, as each horse and rider need three helpers. Volunteers are always needed, if you would like to help please contact Beverley Gibbons at Pinetrees Riding Centre in Almancil. Tel 289 394369

ALMANCIL AND NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

You are invited to attend a Forum on "Almancil and New Business Opportunities" on Friday, 23 February 2007 in the Auditorium in Vale do Lobo. This Forum is a result an indepth study on the aforementioned conducted by GAIM, Gabinete Académico de Investigação e Marketing, and the Almancil Business Association, AEA.

It is an opportunity to voice your viewpoints, ideas and proposals and listen to other business people's points of view. Whilst this is an all day event, we realise you are busy professional people, consequently you can choose which session you would like to attend - click here for the Agenda.

As you can see Network is featured in the programme. Come and support and Network !

Please book your place through the Associação Empresarial de Almancil:
Tel. 289391591 Fax: 289391107 E-mail: noemiabranco@aea.pt www.aea.pt

Photos

Photos to go with post below - it went without them!

Meetings

The February meetings are upon us, but here is a belated post of some of the info from the January Western Algarve meeting where we learned more about feng shui from Gabriele Sporer- certainly made me go home and clear out the entrances to my house, I loved the whole thing. Now I'm looking forward to the Secret, glad to see that the health meeting advert has attracted some comments.

The photos below show members eating, drinking and being happy - as well as introducing Paulette Fouche, our new co-ordinator, pictorially.

When I mailed members about logging into the blog, I'm afraid I got the username wrong, it should be Vicky's full e-mail address, so my apologies - do contact me if you're trying to log in and can't.

All good wishes,

Janice Russell.

An opportunity to Network

TGIF looks forward

WITH THE success of the first TGIF (Thank Goodness It’s Friday!) lunch last month, The Resident is looking forward to the next event on February 23, when Steve Rogers from Blacktower Financial Management Ltd., will talk about Equity Release and Home Reversion.

.

Mr Rogers told The Resident that equity release is a relatively new product to Portugal and, in its simplest form, is a method of elderly residents raising capital using real estate, usually from residential properties, as a means of supplementing pensions.“Most people in Portugal have the majority of their money tied up in their property, which most financial advisers will say is the smart thing to do. Your home is your biggest asset and it can be used to raise capital if you need a lot of money fast.“Equity release is essentially a loan using your property as collateral. The bank can lend owners up to 100 per cent of the value of the property, but not all that money is yours,” he said.Owners are encouraged to invest a good portion of the money in new or existing business ventures, which the bank holds in a portfolio. By investing in stocks and shares or other projects, the revenues can, over time, help or completely repay the amount of money borrowed, along with the interest.“Equity release repayments are usually over five, 10, or 25 years and owners with little or no mortgage on their home are preferred,” he said. “Caution is advised, however, as with any risk taking venture such as this, the investment return is not guaranteed and owners must be careful about choosing the right investments.”

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To find out more about Equity Release and Home Reversion, book your place at the February 23, TGIF lunch at the Hotel Garbe in Armação de Pêra, by sending an email to tgif@portugalresident.com.

By: Natasha Smithnatasha@portugalresident.com

Photo: Supplied

Coming up - February Meeting

WESTERN ALGARVE

Who’s Driving My Bus?
Janice Russell presents an introduction to life & business coaching

Life is a journey: sometimes we travel it smoothly, sometimes we feel pushed, sometimes we hurtle, sometimes we turtle, and sometimes we get lost.

Imagine travelling through just as you want to, spending time where you want to be, not wasting time doing things you don’t want to do.

Janice’s interactive session will introduce you to how coaching can help you to take more control of your life and business. Be warned - this session will be informative and fun!

Wednesday February 28th 2007
Network Lunch at Cottons Restaurant, Alto Club, Alvor
12.30 pm for 1.00 pm – Time to Network
Cost: Members €15 Guests € 20
Please book no later than noon on Monday, 26th February
Contact Paulette Fouché, Network Co-ordinator
Tel/Fax: 282 415 843 Email: pfouche@clix.pt

Members News - Quinta da Calma

Monthly talks at Quinta da Calma

Thursday, February 15th

Eleine Lachance

The first presentation in a series of monthly talks will feature one of our therapists, Eleine Lachance.

In her presentation, “Are We at War with Our Body”, Eleine will lead us to explore the relationship we develop and maintain with our body. She will also talk about how bodywork therapies can help us discover the mysteries of who we are and how the art of touch offers us a way to reconnect with our sacred nature.

19:30hrs in the Meeting House

Entrance free – please sign up at Reception or contact:
Tel: 289 393 741
Fax: 289 393 346
e-mail: info@quintadacalma.com

Portimao Health Meeting

The next Health Meeting at CLCC Portimao is going to begin at 19.30 on 23rd February and the bulk of the meeting will be taken with watching the film 'The Secret'. This is a well hyped film which gives much promise in encouraging us to live our life with the ethos and success we want, and promises to be very interesting. Please contact Angela at eventmanagement for more details.

New business out of networking

Just practising my first blog, I'm delighted to announce that I signed up for a new project last Thursday, to become an agent for I-spy360, a superb state of the art digital photography product which I know will enhance the website of anyone with something to advertise that will look good from an all round perspective. This product has only just arrived in Portugal - it's innovative, fun, inexpensive, and proven to have great results in terms of sales effectiveness.

It's particularly relevant to a Network announcement because my sign up is a direct result of my membership of Network - doing Tarot cards at the Xmas fair 2005, meeting Morag Richardson, taking a monthly Tarot slot at Cafe Bar Bacchus, and then becoming involved in I-spy. A tribute to the power of netoworking! And the introductory training/recruitment seminar was held at Hotel Garbe, in association with Vicki Good's efforts, as ever.

Do contact me if you want to know more about the project, and will keep you posted! Warmest wishes, Janice Russell.