Community Raises Thousands THE local community has once again shown incredible generosity in support of MABS Cancer Support Foundation, which provides vital help to cancer patients in the region. From counselling and translation services to equipment, drivers, and complementary therapies, MABS ensures no one faces cancer alone. Recent fundraising efforts have shown just how committed residents are to supporting this important cause. The Ascot Ladies Day fundraiser, held at Franc & Louise in Sucina, raised €785 for MABS San Javier. Meanwhile, Amigos Bar contributed €2,000, following their first charity golf event. Further support came from a lunch and music afternoon at Ruf Marie in Los Urrutias, which added another €1,010 to the charity’s funds. The event was organised by local residents and drew strong attendance from across the area. The Melody Makers Singing Group also boosted MABS’ efforts with a €1,000 donation. In addition, the RBL and MABS Charity Golf Event at Vistabella Golf raised a further €700. These combined donations will go directly towards helping local patients, reflecting the strong community spirit and continued backing for MABS’ essential work throughout the region. Call for Change A group of residents in Los Nietos gathered on July 6 to demand urgent improvements to the area’s beaches, roads, and public spaces. The protest began at the entrance to the town and moved towards the roundabout at Llano del Beal. Holding signs and reading out a statement, locals voiced their frustration over what they say has been decades of neglect. Their main concern is the RM-F54 road, the only direct route to Cartagena, which they say is in such poor condition it puts lives at risk every day. Nani Vergara, president of the residents’ association, led the protest under the slogan: ‘A proper road, a living town.’ She also pointed to the poor state of the seafront promenade, the lack of beach maintenance, and basic issues like missing street names and numbers. Locals say no major improvements have been made since the 1980s, despite Los Nietos having around 1,800 full-time residents. They also want better access to healthcare, children’s services, green spaces, and sports facilities. Another protest is planned for August 9, this time focused on the state of the beaches. Hometown Heroes ARDE Bogotá returned to their hometown of Cartagena recently for a concert that left a lasting impression. The performance, part of the Cartagena Suena festival, drew a large and enthusiastic crowd to the Cuesta del Batel. Known for their emotional lyrics and powerful sound, Arde Bogotá has become one of Spain’s most talked-about rock bands in recent years. Their connection to Cartagena runs deep, and fans were thrilled to see them back on home ground. The band members, who formed the group in Cartagena, spoke warmly about their roots during the show, thanking the local crowd for their support over the years. The event also featured performances by up-and-coming local artists, giving festivalgoers the chance to enjoy a full evening of live music. The atmosphere was electric as both longtime fans and new listeners came together to celebrate the city’s growing music scene. The concert marked a high point in the Cartagena Suena festival, which brought national and local talent to the stage. For many, Arde Bogotá’s homecoming was the highlight, a proud moment for the city and a reminder of how far local talent can go. Road Link Opened A newly upgraded stretch of the RM-531 road is now open to traffic, following a €1.6 million investment by the regional government. The works have improved safety and driving conditions along a 2.2-kilometre section between the Los Rodeos reservoir turn-off and the roundabout at the entrance to Alguazas. The project included resurfacing, widening the road and shoulders, and improving the layout of the route. It’s part of a wider plan to upgrade the RM-531, with over €6 million allocated in total. Francisco Carrillo, Director General of Roads, said the improvements will make travel safer and more comfortable for everyone using this road between Alguazas, Albudeite, and Campos del Río. This latest section follows earlier upgrades near Campos del Río, where €1.4 million was invested. The next phase will focus on the central stretch, with work expected to go out to tender soon. The final section will connect directly to Campos del Río. Meanwhile, the regional government has also set aside €1 million to help fund a new junction linking Alguazas to the Arco Noroeste motorway, an ongoing request from locals and businesses. Jellyfish Problem THE Los Alcázares Town Hall has voiced concern about the growing number of jellyfish in the Mar Menor and the lack of anti-jellyfish nets on local beaches. Residents and summer visitors have raised the alarm, and the council says it has been requesting a meeting for months with the Scientific Committee through the regional authorities to discuss the issue and look for joint solutions. A recent key meeting was unfortunately cancelled. Despite this setback, the council says it remains open to dialogue. ‘We want to find solutions based on expert advice and agreement,’ said a spokesperson. A recent report by the coastal authority suggests that it is technically possible to install jellyfish nets in a way that respects the protected ecosystem. With proper maintenance and support from specialist teams, such as the divers from the Hippocampus Association, the nets could become a reality. Officials point out that science has made great progress in recent years and now offers tools that didn’t exist before. What is needed now is the political will to listen and take action. ‘The Mar Menor brings us together,’ the statement ends. ‘From Los Alcázares, we will continue to work to protect it, ensure safe swimming, and care for our natural environment.’