Adopt don’t Shop
Please consider adopting one of these babies. They have been waiting a long time for a forever home.
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Police Insight
HMGoG Minister for Equality, Samantha Sacramento, visited a “Women in Policing” information stand at the Piazza. The Minister had a chance to learn about the “I Can Do That” campaign which was launched today by the RGP’s Women in Policing Committee.
Find out more at police.gi/women-in-policin
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The Showdance Company
Students from Showdance took part in a warm-up session and the presentation of competition pieces at Central Hall on Sunday 19th March. This was to enable the dancers to build up their confidence by working on their dance pieces in front of an audience before they go on to compete in the Global Dance Qualifier to be held on Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th April.
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Padel to the Metal
Staying Active and Socialising with a Fun Racquet Sport
As we age, it can become more challenging to stay active and find activities that keep us engaged and socializing with others. This is where padel comes in – a fun and accessible racquet sport that’s perfect for older people in Gibraltar.
Padel is a sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, played on a smaller court surrounded by glass walls. The sport has become increasingly popular in Gibraltar in recent years, and it’s not just for young people. Older people are also discovering the joys of padel, with many finding it to be an ideal way to stay active and socialize with others.
One of the great things about padel is its accessibility. The smaller court and slower pace of the game make it easier for older people to play, even if they haven’t played a racquet sport before. Additionally, padel is a low-impact sport that’s gentler on the joints than other sports, making it an ideal option for older people who may have joint problems or other injuries.
Playing padel can also have significant health benefits for older people. The sport is a great cardiovascular workout, helping to improve endurance, agility, and speed. It also requires players to use their brains, improving cognitive function and reaction time. Padel is a perfect way to keep both the body and mind active, which is essential for maintaining good health as we age.
But perhaps the most significant benefit of padel for older people is the social aspect of the sport. Padel is typically played in doubles, which means players are constantly communicating and working together as a team. This fosters a sense of camaraderie and community that extends beyond the court. Many older people find that playing padel provides a great opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and feel part of a community.
Fortunately, there are many places in Gibraltar where older people can play padel. The Gibraltar Padel Tennis Association’s (GPTA) state-of-the-art facility at the Bayside Sports Complex offers coaching sessions and tournaments for players of all levels, including older people. There are also other venues around the Rock that offer padel, making it easy for older people to find a place to play.
In conclusion, padel is an excellent sport for older people in Gibraltar who want to stay active and socialize with others. With its accessibility, health benefits, and social aspects, padel is an ideal way to stay engaged with the world around us, meet new people, and have fun while doing it. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to try something new, padel is a sport that everyone can enjoy regardless of age.
It’s just like tennis, except fun, easy and totally unpretentious.
Where did Padel come from?
The roots of padel are found in Acapulco, Mexico, in 1969, when a businessman, Enrique Corcuera, adapted his home squash court to integrate elements of platform tennis, which is essentially a slightly edited, smaller version of tennis that can be played year-round.
Playing on the new court, Corcuera created something he called Paddle Corcuera.
As the story goes, Corcuera would invite friends over to play his newly invented game. One of them, Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, a Spanish prince, was so inspired that he decided to build two courts of his own in his home town of Marbella, in 1974.
Half a century on, padel, as it is now known, is played by more than 25 million people worldwide, and is recognised as one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.
Are padel and tennis balls the same?
A tennis ball has a diameter of between 6.54cm and 6.86cm. A padel tennis ball, meanwhile, has a diameter between 6.35cm and 6.77cm.
Where to play padel?
Gibraltar is luck to have a number of courts on the here on The Rock. With Padel being the the no2 sport in Spain and over 22,000 courts through out the country there are many options across the boarder. Courts in in Gib can be found at Sandpits Giibraltar (Gibraltar Sandpits Lawn Tennis Club) and the Bayside Sport Complex.
What are the rules?
Padel is scored in sets of six games, with two games difference – or a tiebreaker if the game is split. Best of three sets wins the match and the serve is always underarm.
The Benefits of playing
Besides the fact that it’s easier than tennis, there are plenty of health rewards to be reaped:
- • It improves cardiovascular fitness
- • It helps build core, glute and leg strength
- • It improves balance
- • It improves coordination
- • It improves mental focus
- It helps ‘delay mental ageing as it requires constant concentration and change of tactics’
- It’s a great form of social interaction
Padel Gear:
- A padel racket (these should be provided at your local club, but as they’re usually made of plastic and foam, they’re super affordable for any of you who would like to invest in your own)
- Depressurised balls (slightly smaller than tennis balls)
- General activewear
- Padel or clay court shoes (these may not be essential, depending on where you play – standard trainers can also work)
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A WOODWIND QUINTET FROM GIBRALTAR TRAVELS TO ANKARA
A woodwind quintet from the Band of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment recently travelled to Ankara in Turkey, where they spent three days playing music in a variety of locations.
During their visit, the quintet were given a tour of the British Embassy, a visit to the Turkish Army Military School of Music and a visit to a British Embassy school. Included in their trip to the British Embassy School in Ankara, the quintet hosted a workshop which focused on teamwork and listening skills through games and activities, culminating in a joint play through some of the band’s music.
The musicians were delighted to be able to meet a traditional Turkish band where they learnt about traditional instruments such as a bağlama (a guitar-like instrument with a long handle and played with a plectrum) and a kanun (a string instrument like a piano played by resting on the lap and plucked using a metal plectrum).
A member of the quintet, Corporal Panter-Richardson, who is originally from Turkey said: “I enjoyed returning to Turkey to represent the Regiment and translate for my colleagues. It was fun to show the quintet some of the famous sites and let them experience the wonderful Turkish hospitality and taste the famous Turkish cuisine. It was a momentous occasion for me to visit Turkey and it was a highlight of my musical career.”
On the final engagement, the band performed at the British Embassy, in the presence of the Ambassador, the Turkish Chief of Defence Staff and various other high profile guests.
Upon completion of the trip, all members of the quintet were each presented with a coin from the British Embassy, Ankara for their dedication, commitment, and performances.
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Trip Out – Best travel accessories of 2023
The ritual of packing for a trip—out of town or across the globe—has come a long way from travel guide books to advanced gadgets. Before, it was just about checked luggage, travel backpacks, and your clothes; the techiest travel essentials you’d bring was probably a set of power adapters. Now, there’s a whole high-tech society of travel gadgets occupying your suitcases and duffel bags whenever you prepare for an outing, short or long, near or far.
We have picked out our top 30 travel gadgets 2023 available to purchase online that we guarantee will make your adventures easier and more efficient than ever before. And will be the envy of all your friends. Practical and covetable – it’ll be tough to decide which one to add to your kit first!.
1. Sony wh-1000xm5 wireless noise canceling headphones
On the flight, the tried-and-true WH-1000XM5—an undisputed upgrade from its predecessor in both comfort and noise-cancelling—is a winner at extinguishing clamors of babies crying or air conditioners, and lets you enjoy your own library of soothing white noise. Just be careful of losing track of the flight attendant’s announcements.
2. Larq self-cleaning purevis bottle
When the worst possible lost-in-the-woods scenario comes and you must reserve to taking a scoop from a sketchy stream in the mountain, LARQ’s auto-bacterial-killing bottle will come in handy to purify 99 percent of bio-contaminants out of your water. (Or simply use it because different countries have different standards regarding tap water.)
3. Tile 4-pack mate essentials
So, you can (finally) stop losing things in hotels or restaurants and caving in to the hassle buying a new phone or AirPods in a foreign city or country. Those higher tax rates are no joke.
4. Vanelc portable uv light sanitizer wand
Just in case your voyage takes place during the cusp of yet another pandemic (do we even know if we are out of the last one?), this handy sanitizing light wand you can fit in a pocket will be able to rapidly sterilize those surfaces frequented by many before you.
5. Twelve south airfly pro
Simply put, it’s a TikTok viral gadget that’ll connect your AirPods—or any wireless headphones and earbuds—to the airplane TV. A godsend for your inevitably long, dull flight across the country, or the globe.
6. Jepwco g4 pro anti spy detector
You never know what kind of creepiness is lurking at your hotel room or AirBnb. Hence, a wireless hidden device detector that’ll blow the cover on those pinhole cameras, audio bugs, and trackers. And, it doesn’t look like a detective’s walkie-talkie, which is cool.
7. Basu ealarm plus 130db emergency alarm
If you love to go hiking on your own, the safe thing to do is to get an eAlarm. This little gadget doesn’t require reception and is louder than a whistle at 130 decibels. When you pull the pin, it will sound continuously for 30 minutes or until you put the pin back in. Those bears surely won’t stick around with that kind of noise.
8. Glocalme g4 pro 4g lte mobile hotspot
Anyone who’s tried out the digital nomad lifestyle knows the world isn’t as connected as you might hope. Wi-fi in hotels, Airbnbs, and cafes are usually not reliable, and it’s a hassle to get local SIMs, especially if you’re going to many different countries. This device gives you peace of mind with a connection pretty much anywhere you go (as long as there’s cellular service). Simply buy a package via the Glocal app (on Android or iPhone), and get internet access in more than 140 countries on up to 10 devices. Unlimited data globally is about $200 per month, though there are cheaper and shorter plans if you’re going to specific locations.
9. Incharge 6-in-1 portable keychain charger cable
Power is everything when traveling, and a lot of times our chargers can take up tons of space. The inCharge is the size of a small keychain and has six different charging input and output combinations to provide power to your phone, headphones, e-reader, smartwatch, and more. For quick reference, the inCharge has these specific ports: an input USB-C, an output USB-C, a USB-A, and an output lightning plus micro USB.
10. Perilogics universal in flight airplane phone holder mount
If you’re looking for a better phone holder for eye-level viewing, then this mount will do the trick. The universal design makes it easy to clip in all types of smartphones for a multi-angle adjustment. Place it on the plane seat in front of you for viewing or onto a nearby table for a quick Zoom call before your flight.
11. Luminaid packlite max phone charger
A revolutionary 2 in 1 gadget from LuminAID this lantern also doubles up as a phone charger. This super cool travel gadgets is also waterproof, floatable, offers up to 50hrs of light and can be recharged via main or solar energy. Perfect for back country adventures, camping and ‘in the dead of night’ astro photography shoots! It’s one of the most unique travel gadgets on the list.
12. Scrubba washing bag
If you know you will away from a washing machine for quite a long time (ie. when you are on an overland African Safari!) having a mini washing machine in your bag can make staying relatively clean a whole lot easier. Grab a Scrubba washing Bag in 1 of 2 sizes depending on your needs, and don’t worry anymore if you shoulld wear that tee the inside out tomorrow.
13. Gotenna mesh sms & gps device
Stay connected even when you’re off-grid with the goTenna Mesh. Allowing you to send texts without cell service, this handy gadget is also weatherproof and has up to 24hrs of battery power.
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Five unusual World Facts
Italy
Italy has a free, public wine fountain! Yes, as if you needed any more incentive to visit this Mediterranean country, in the beautiful region of Abruzzo on the shoreline of the Adriatic Sea, you can find a free wine fountain in the small town of Ortona.
The concept was brought to life by Dora Sarchese Winery owner Nicola D’Auria and his architect Rocco Antonini with the idea of serving free flowing wine to those travelling the Camino di San Tommaso. Although the winery will not reveal the specific type of wine, reviews from travellers are positive. However, it’s not the first public wine fountain in Italy because Venice has a wine fountain in St Mark’s Square during its annual carnival.
Jet Lag
Jet lag is often the worst part of travelling. Science has proved that jet lag feels worse if you travel from west to east. Our internal clock has a natural cycle of sleep/wake modes that is slightly longer than 24 hours. Travelling from west to east makes the day shorter, while travelling from east to west makes the day longer, making it easier for the brain to adapt.
France
The country with the most time zones is France, with 12. The reason for this is because France still administers overseas departments and territories placed far away across the world. Otherwise Russia and the USA cover 11 time zones.
Fastest Roller Coaster
If you need excitement, adrenaline and a dopamine rush, you can get all that when a new roller coaster being built outside the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh opens. The ‘Falcon’s Flight’ roller coaster will travel about two and a half miles at speeds of up to 155 miles per hour at a record-breaking height of 525 feet and will set world records when it opens at Six Flags Qiddiya theme park in 2023.
Space Hotel
Reserve your rooms now and get ready to go where no man has gone before! The Gateway Foundation has announced the opening of the world’s first space hotel, The Voyager Space Station, in 2027. The hotel will be constructed over 11,600 square meters of habitable space in the shape of a Ferris wheel. Its rotation should create artificial gravity. The gravitational power will be weaker and closer in strength to the one on the moon. Apart from the spectacular view and design, the lack of gravity will create a totally new experience, feeling and sense.
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Armed Forces
Ten Gibraltar Defence Police Coxswains recently complete their RYA Coastal Skipper/Yacht Master offshore theory course with the local RYA teaching centre Allabroad Sailing Academy.
The qualifications the officers received are recognised by the UK Maritime and Coastguard agency as the UK’s National Standard and their use is required by the Defence Maritime Regulator.
The demanding course covered advanced skills in offshore and coastal navigation by day and night, pilotage and meteorology. The successful candidates will be continuing their professional development and undertake further RYA Training and additional Police Specific Training later on in the year.
Major Pitto Receives MBE
The Royal Gibraltar Regiment is delighted to announce that Major Pitto received his MBE from Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal, at Windsor Castle.
Major Pitto returned to the Royal Gibraltar Regiment in July last year after spending two years in British Forces Gibraltar as the Operations and Plans officer. He was awarded an MBE for his services as the primary lead in developing plans and supporting efforts against the COVID 19 pandemic, as well as leading with contingency planning within the military environment, and being a force driver in executing charitable events.
He most notably played a huge part in organising the successful first ever Armed Forces Day on the Rock in 2020 which saw Her Majesty’s Naval Base filled by thousands of members of the general public.
After receiving his MBE, Battalion Second in Command, Major Pitto said, “Yesterday was a proud and special day. I never expected to have been recognised for such a prestigious honour, I’m truly humbled.
To receive the honour from Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal, was also very special as she is a big supporter of Gibraltar.
I once again want to thank my family for their patience in supporting me over the years.”
Many congratulations to Major Pitto from everyone at Insight.
RG Return From The Gambia
For the past two months, eight members of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment (RG), accompanied by a Royal Marine Medic, spent five weeks in The Gambia, West Africa, where they provided a “Train the Trainer” (AKA T3) package to 61 Officers & Soldiers of the Gambian Armed Forces (GAF).
The RG’s Short-Term Training Team (STTT) spent five weeks based at the British High Commission in Serrekunda, about 10 kilometres from Gambia’s capital, Banjul.
The RG have historically conducted training in The Gambia on several occasions over the past 19 years, the last time being in 2021. The recent deployments have seen the RG focus on developing the GAF’s ability to train their own soldiers and office
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Community Insight
CITY HALL VISIT BY DOWN SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP
In celebration of World Down Syndrome Day His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD hosted the committee and members of Down Syndrome Support Group Gibraltar at City Hall.
His Worship took the opportunity to celebrate the achievements over the past two years of members of the Group in the fields of culture and sport as follows.
Lucy Stewart: bronze medal in the Gibraltar International Dance Festival
Adam Stewart: for swimming 50m in 43 seconds at a Butterfly swimming competition
Jeffrey Migliori: for his participation in the Disability Golf Cairns Cup in the UK
Alfred Celecia: for his participation in swimming at the Special Olympics
Shane Martinez: for achieving 2 medals for bowling in Malta 2022
Charles Zammit and Nicholas Payas: for taking part in Challenge 21 Virtual 21K steps challenge, walking 21,000 steps and raising over £1,500 between them for Down’s Syndrome Association UK.
A special mention was also given to Caine McWilliam for dancing Capoeira with Art in Movement for almost 9 years.
His Worship spoke about how everyone is unique and how embracing our differences is how Gibraltar has become the beautiful community is it. He praised the Group’s committee, family members and carers for their work and support which further allow members the opportunities to excel in their chosen areas.
Portrait Changeover
The melancholy task of removing the official portraits of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at No 6 Convent Place and the Convent has taken place.
Temporary portraits of His Majesty the King and the Queen Consort are now on display with permanent Official Portraits to follow in the summer following the Coronation.
DATA BUOY
The Department of the Environment has deployed a meteo ocean buoy within the Seven Sisters Marine Conservation Zone.
The buoy collects and transmits wave, wind, sea surface temperature, seabed temperature and barometric pressure data in real time. It has been sourced from Aqualink, a philanthropic engineering organisation who is working towards building ocean conservation technology. The Department will use the data for on-going marine monitoring and research programmes.
Gibraltar’s data can be viewed at
https://aqualink.org/sites/3199.
World Book day at Westside
Westside School’s English Department held their traditional fundraising event for the EV Foundation during World Book Day this year, raising just over £400 for the local charity.
Funds were raised as part of a non-uniform day where pupils could choose to dress up as a literary character and take part in the annual costume competition.
Prizes for the competitions were generously donated by local companies Tramonti Pizzeria, Mamma Mia Pizzeria, The Scented Garden, Thai Orchid Spa, My Wines and The Art Box. Prizes were awarded for best pupil individual and group entries.
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Ladies that Rock the Rock Award 2023
The first awards’ ceremony for Ladies That Rock The Rock took place on Wednesday, 8th March at a Gala Dinner held at the Sunborn Hotel to coincide with International Women’s Day 2023, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
Organised by Ayelet Mamo Shay, the event celebrated the achievements and contributions of women to society in general and to the community of Gibraltar in particular. The event brought together women and men from different backgrounds, including business leaders and community members. During the Gala dinner, guests were treated to a range of inspirational activities, including an insightful panel, entertainment by a professional dancer, a singer and a magician, networking opportunities, a photo booth and a massive raffle with many great prizes.
Awards were presented to eight women from across different sectors in recognition of their achievements and who had been nominated by the people of Gibraltar.
Minister for Equality Samantha Sacramento presented the awards and highlighted the fact that this recognition should exist throughout the year and not just on International Woman’s Day.
Commenting on the event, Ayelet Mamo Shay said: “We definitely celebrated IWD in style! I have no doubt that next year we will find more great ladies and at some point we will make a collection of ladies that will appear in the second edition of my book The Ladies That Rock The Rock!”
The Ladies That Rock the Rock Team will continue to deliver workshops, delegations, events and much more during the year.
If you would like to get involved or for further information regarding our activities please feel free to contact The Ladies That Rock The Rock Team on:
TheLadiesThatRock@gmail.com
Influencer Award
Alexandra Caruana, PWC Gibraltar
Diversity and Inclusion Award
Nicole Buckley, PossAbilities
Business Leader Award
Sharon Garcia, Piece of Cake Gibraltar
Social Impact Award
Michelle Pereira & Ginella Attard, Women in Need Gibraltar
Lifetime Achievement Award
Suyenne Perez Catania,
Gibraltar Tourist Board
Health & Wellness Award
Kathryn Morgan, CorreLibre
Women in Media
Christine Vasquez, GBC
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