First of all please accept my apologies for communication problems last month. In early February our email on Outlook was updated , and as a result we could not access our lists for over three weeks! I hope that the problem is now resolved, but if you know of anyone who does not get this newsletter please let us know. The main event last month was the lunch at the Chalut, attended by 26 members from seven nationalities. Thanks to Sally for arranging this. We hope to follow this up soon with a further lunch, since this is what was requested at the AGM. Any suggestions for a venue?
Driving rain yesterday – and a tramontane gusting to over 150kph forecast for tonight, but the first flowers: cistus, asphodels, grape hyacinth and orchids are out on the hills.
Snow Day
Several of you were keen to take part in a day at Font Romeu, whether for downhill, cross country skiing, dog sledding, or snow shoe walks. The recent snow at the weekend has improved conditions, with more expected this week. I will suggest a date in the week 7-11 March, decide on a meeting point and book a table for lunch at the Hotel Lassusin Bolquere. The roads will be clear and the sun will shine! Contact us if you are still interested. Beginners welcome.
Cinema
At the time of writing we do not yet know about original version films at the Vauban for March, with the exception of Free Love on 3rd March at 20.30, an American romantic drama with a strong political edge directed by Peter Sollett and starring Julianne Moore and Ellen Page. I’ll try to circulate details of other films later in the month.
Procession de la Sanch
As Easterapproaches the Processions de la Sanch (trans. Procession of the blood of Christ) take place . The tradition dates back to medieval times and is very much part of the religious and cultural life of the area, with its ancient costumes and customs.. The procession in Perpignan leaves the Eglise Saint Jacques at 15.00 on Good Friday (25 March). Take the 1€ bus as parking is difficult. The smaller evening procession in Collioure takes place at 21.00, also on Good Friday.
Book Exchange – Laroque des Albères.
This takes place on the 3rd Monday every month (21st March) at 10.30 at the Café des Artistes, Laroque des Albères. Take with you books in French or English to exchange for books to take home free, with donations to the charity “Cancer Support France”. We recently went to the Café des Artistes for a very enyoyablemeal .
Coming Up...
April 2nd Concert – Pam has recommended a concert by the acapella group “Vigatane Transfer” at the Théâtre de l’Etang at Saint Estève at 20.30. Tickets cost 15€ and 10€. Reservations 0645025088.
April 10th Vide Grenier – Port Vendres. As usual items can be left inside the green door at 29 rue Arage. We need small items, jewellery, ornaments, tools, games , books etc to sell on the day. Our stand will be opposite Cafe du France.
Also in April I propose another visit either to the Nature Reserve at Aiguamolls de l’Emporda or to the EtangCanet- St Nazaire to see migrating birds.
June- Art exhibition planning is well under way. Vernissage Friday 10th June to Satuday 18th June.
A few Days Away
Linda and I are off to Soller in Majorca for a week at the end of March and we’ll report back.
Cross Country Skiing at Font Romeu. Les Clots (English joke)