PALS (Protection and Life Saving) wish all their friends and supporters the very best for 2008 and would also take this opportunity of thanking the editor and staff of the Costa Cálida Chronicle for their considerable help in promoting what is the areas largest humanity charity.
In 2007 over 3500 people attended our various events and we have a programme arranged throughout the forthcoming 12 months. Our immediate projects are the sponsored New Year’s Day swim at the Bahia Beach and a special music evening at Kennelly’s on the 13th January – only 6 Euros to dance the night away. Information and tickets for all events from Sheila on 968 138823. Book early to avoid disappointment.
PALS exist to purchase medical equipment for the emergency services in the Mazarrón area and to date have provided in excess of 110,000 Euros worth of ‘goodies’.
Earlier this year we provided the Ayuntamiento with 9 automated defibrillators together with payment for training 25 people in their use on the premise that these would be used and that at least 2 would be based on Camposol. Regretfully these essential machines are still in the cardboard boxes due to a legal requirement in the Murcia Region that restricts their use to trained professionals. This is a country–wide law that has already been changed in Andalucia, Aragon, Asturias, Canarias, Cataluna, Galicia, Navarra y Pais Vasco. Murcia is considering changing the law and we are trying to exert as much pressure as we can to obtain the earliest release and usage as originally intended. To underline our commitment to this project PALS have withheld the purchase of any further equipment until the matter is resolved and therefore we enter 2008 with substantial purchasing power but still require the active support of our friends to create a major fund and intend as soon as we can see the machines in use to reopen our coffers for the benefit of all. Currently 40% of PALS net receipts are being held in a deposit account specifically to assist in the provision of equipment for the new Heath centre on Camposol. Various rumours persist about the finances for this project which is funded by the Murcia Regional Government and not by Mazarrón. Our information is that everything is still on course and awaits the usual paperwork prior to a start on the building.
PALS are jointly with the Mazarrón Bahia Lions chairing CAFÉ (Community Ambulance Fund Espana) which is aiming to purchase an ambulance based in the area north of Mazarrón, close to the motorway and serving the urbanizations and campo. It is with great pleasure that we can finally advise that the Concert for CAFÉ raised a net 5,300 Euros. Well done everyone. Various events for CAFÉ are being planned and it is hoped that we can get Costa Cálida International Radio to promote another springtime concert. We will advise next month how much we have in the bank and provide further information.
Again thank you for all your generosity and if you think you can get involved please make contact with any PALS member and attend one of our monthly get togethers.
Ken Payne. President.