### A Memorable Trip to Portugal

Frank and Joyce Livelli, avid readers of the Cape Gazette, recently embarked on an enchanting journey through **Portugal**. The couple was spotted enjoying **tapas** while delighting in their Cape Gazette along the picturesque **Porto riverside**. Known for its **stately bridges**, rich **port wine**, and **medieval architecture**, Porto offers a unique blend of culture and beauty that captivates visitors.

Their experience highlights the allure of exploring **Portugal**, a country that boasts stunning landscapes and a vibrant culinary scene. The Livellis' adventure is a testament to the joys of travel and the delightful moments that can be found while indulging in local traditions and flavors.

Frank and Joyce Livelli recently traveled to Portugal. The devoted readers are shown here enjoying some tapas while reading their Cape Gazette along the beautiful Porto riverside. Porto is known for its stately bridges, port wine, and medieval...

Discovering the Charm of Portugal: A Journey with Cape Gazette

In a bold move, **Miguel Prata Roque**, a candidate for the leadership of the PS-Lisbon Urban Federation, has addressed party members, emphasizing his intent to break away from the **'vices'** that have plagued the party's essence. The elections are set for **January 10**.  

### A Call for Change  
Prata Roque made it clear in his **newsletter** that he is not interested in maintaining the status quo: "I did not come to leave everything the same. I did not come to repeat mistakes. I did not come just to manage day-to-day affairs." He criticized the **lack of courage** to prioritize the country's interests over personal ones, hinting at a stagnation among party leaders who have remained in power for too long without engaging with the real world.  

### Opening the Party to New Ideas  
He argues that the PS must **open its doors** to diverse opinions and avoid complacency. "New times demand new actors, new faces, new ideas," he stated, emphasizing the need for **fresh communication methods** to reconnect with the public.  

### Experience and Vision  
With **28 years of experience** in the PS, Prata Roque has served in various capacities, including as Secretary of State. He believes that having a life outside of politics is crucial for understanding the challenges faced by everyday citizens.  

### Aiming for Respect and Autonomy  
In his message, he expressed a desire to restore the **respect** and **political weight** of the federation, which has been undermined in recent years. Prata Roque plans to open the party to **'forgotten militants'** and the civil society that has distanced itself from the PS. He intends to propose a **Strategic Action Program** that will define the relationship between the party and its members, aiming for a convention to approve a strategic letter outlining values and principles for local candidates.  

### The Choice Ahead  
As he urges party members to vote on January 10, he poses a critical question: "Do we want to continue focused on our own interests, or do we want the Socialist Party to be a **motor of change** for our fellow citizens?" The upcoming elections represent a pivotal moment for the PS-Lisbon as it seeks to regain the trust of its electorate.

Candidato à liderança da Federação da Área Urbana de Lisboa deixa críticas sem nomear antecessores e defende abertura do partido. Eleições estão marcadas para 10 de Janeiro.

Miguel Prata Roque Challenges the Status Quo in PS-Lisbon Leadership Bid

### New Leadership in Portuguese Museums and Monuments

The **Museus e Monumentos de Portugal**, a public entity established by the Ministry of Culture, has announced the appointment of **new directors** for five museums and two monument complexes, including the iconic **Jerónimos Monastery**. This marks the first significant outcome of the recent recruitment process initiated in August and September, attracting **69 applications**.

Among the prominent new appointments is **Sandra Costa Saldanha**, who will lead the **Museu Nacional Machado de Castro** in Coimbra. An art historian specializing in **Baroque sculpture**, Saldanha brings a wealth of experience from her previous role at the National Secretariat for Cultural Assets of the Church.

**Rosário Salema de Carvalho** takes the helm at the **Museu Nacional do Azulejo** in Lisbon, a museum renowned for its extensive collection of **Portuguese tiles**. Carvalho, a researcher at the ARTIS Institute, has previously curated exhibitions related to the **Viúva Lamego** factory.

The **Laboratório José de Figueiredo**, pivotal in conservation and restoration, will now be directed by **Rui Câmara Borges**, known for his expertise in ancient metals and conservation techniques.

In Lisbon, **Mariana Brandão**, an expert in performance and dance history, will lead the **Museu Nacional do Teatro e da Dança**. Meanwhile, **Margarida Donas Botto** continues her interim role at the **Jerónimos Monastery and Torre de Belém**, and **António Carvalho** remains at the **Museu Nacional de Arqueologia**.

In Guimarães, **Milton Pacheco** is appointed director of the **Paço dos Duques and Castelo de Guimarães**, while **Maria de Lurdes Rufino** will oversee the **Museu Alberto Sampaio**.

This restructuring reflects a shift towards leaders with backgrounds in **education and research**, rather than purely museum-focused careers, aiming to enhance the cultural heritage of Portugal.

Sandra Costa Saldanha vai para o Museu Machado de Castro e Rui Câmara Borges para o Laboratório José de Figueiredo. Rosário Salema de Carvalho para o Museu do Azulejo.

Portugal's Cultural Landscape Transformed: Meet the New Museum Directors!

![Ivan Zlobin](https://portugoal.net/images/Famalicao/Ivan-Zlobin2-Famalicao.jpg)

**The Rise of Ivan Zlobin**
From Lev Yashin to Rinat Dasayev, Russia's football history is adorned with remarkable goalkeepers, and at just 27 years old, **Ivan Zlobin** is on the path to becoming the next great shot-stopper for Russia. 

Born in **Tyumen, Siberia**, Zlobin began his football journey at the age of six with **FC Tyumen**. His exceptional performances in youth tournaments caught the eye of major clubs, leading him to join the **Konoplyov football academy**. However, after a funding withdrawal by Chelsea's owner Roman Abramovich, Zlobin found himself moving to **CSKA Moscow** before making a bold decision to relocate to Portugal and join **União de Leiria** at 18.

**A Move to Benfica**
Just three months later, Zlobin transferred to **Benfica**’s U-19 team on loan, eventually securing a permanent contract. Despite being second-choice goalkeeper, he trained with the first team and made his official debut in the **Taça da Liga** against **Vitória Sport Clube** in September 2019. Unfortunately, a lack of first-team opportunities under new management led him to join **Famalicão** in August 2020.

**Struggles and Resilience**
Zlobin faced a tough start at Famalicão, struggling in his initial matches and playing only five games over three seasons. Many expected him to leave due to his lack of playing time. However, he expressed a deep connection to the club and community, stating, "I feel very welcome in this club, in this city and in this community. I love to live here."

![Zlobin with Ukrainian Flag](https://portugoal.net/images/Famalicao/Zlobin-Ukraine-Flag.jpg)

**A Turnaround in Fortune**
With the departure of Luiz Júnior to Villarreal, Zlobin seized the opportunity to reclaim his starting position. He has since become a crucial player for Famalicão, starting in 12 consecutive matches and demonstrating impressive skills with an average of **3.2 saves per game** and a goals conceded rate of **1.0 per game**. His performance has drawn attention, earning him a nomination as one of the best goalkeepers in Liga Portugal for November.

**Impressive Statistics**
Zlobin has recorded five clean sheets, trailing only a few top goalkeepers in the league. His contributions have helped Famalicão maintain a strong defensive record, conceding the joint-fewest goals outside of the Big Three teams in Portugal. With his rising form, Zlobin could soon be in contention for a spot on the **Russian national team**.


From Siberia to northern Portugal, Ivan Zlobin’s perseverance pays off

From Siberia to Stardom: Ivan Zlobin's Inspiring Journey in Portuguese Football

### Portugal's New Waste Management Proposal

The **Secretary of State for the Environment**, Emídio Sousa, advocates for a transformative model in Portugal that encourages **citizens to pay for the waste they produce**. This initiative aims to enhance recycling efforts and promote civic and environmental awareness.

![Waste Management](https://d1mnxluw9mpf9w.cloudfront.net/media/2572/4x3/1200.JPG)

During a recent visit to Ambigroup in **Seixal**, Sousa emphasized the need for a pragmatic approach, stating, “We are far below what we should be doing in terms of recycling.” He highlighted that merely raising civic awareness is insufficient; a system must be established that directly ties waste production to costs and recycling incentives.

The newly formed working group, tasked with developing a **Landfill Emergency Plan**, will consider incorporating this payment model in its conclusions. Sousa proposes that **everyone should pay for the waste they generate** while receiving incentives for recycling.

He noted that **technology exists** in other countries that could facilitate this model, which would ultimately be managed through local municipalities. However, he acknowledged the significant investments required and the need for voluntary participation from these municipalities.

Sousa also pointed out that **Europe has set ambitious recycling goals**, and it is crucial for Portugal to comply with these standards. He stressed that effective legislation must be coupled with practical implementation, asserting that landfills should be the last resort.

To optimize waste management, the focus should be on separating materials, recycling, and extracting usable components before considering energy recovery from non-recyclable waste. Sousa concluded that while future investments are necessary, immediate actions must optimize existing landfill operations.

The Secretary of State for the Environment has defended that Portugal should move towards a model that encourages citizens to pay for the waste they produce.

Portugal's Revolutionary Plan: Citizens to Pay for Their Waste! Discover the Details

### PCP Faces a Challenging Phase

During the **22nd Congress of the PCP** held in Almada, party members expressed concerns about the party's current state. Many delegates and guests were hesitant to share their views, but a common sentiment emerged: the media is orchestrating a campaign against the party, affecting its public image.

**Vítor Duarte**, a 67-year-old retired metalworker and party member, acknowledged the party's struggles but pointed fingers at the media, claiming it has a **"atrocious campaign"** aimed at undermining the PCP. He lamented that while other parties receive praise for minor actions, the PCP is often sidelined. He also recognized that declining membership contributes to the party's weakened position.

**Gonçalo**, a 24-year-old student representing the **Juventude Comunista Portuguesa (JCP)**, stated that electoral results weigh heavily on their minds but attributed the blame to a **"declared campaign against the party"** by large capital interests and the media. He emphasized the need for the party to enhance its recruitment efforts to regain strength.

**Clara**, another JCP delegate aged 21, echoed the sentiment that the PCP's battle lies with the media. She urged the party to focus on improving its relationship with workers and youth rather than assigning blame for its electoral decline.

**Henrique Chester**, a 72-year-old who attended the congress as a supporter, found it difficult to blame the party for its electoral losses, insisting that the media's **"imbued prejudices"** play a significant role in shaping public perception. He believes the party will regain its past relevance, attributing current challenges to societal changes rather than a lack of effective communication.

Despite losing voters over the past year, the PCP kicked off its congress with **1,040 delegates** in attendance and a speech from party secretary-general **Paulo Raimundo**. The party has lost around **2,000 members** since 2020, with no increase in new memberships to offset these losses.

Militantes do PCP reconhecem que o partido já viveu melhores dias, mas têm dificuldade em apontar causas internas para o declínio eleitoral, preferindo ver na comunicação social o principal ...

Inside the PCP's Struggles: Members Reflect on Challenges and Media Criticism

## Madeira's Construction Association Critiques Budget Rejection

The **Madeira Association of Construction Industries (ASSICOM)** has condemned the rejection of the region's **2025 Budget and Investment Plan**, deeming it an "**incorrect**, **irresponsible**, and **undignified**" decision that reflects a **detachment from reality** by political parties.

João Carlos Gomes, the association's vice-president, expressed his concerns, stating, "There is a certain detachment and irresponsibility from political agents regarding the socioeconomic reality of the region." He emphasized that the parties appear to be more focused on their own interests and power retention rather than the welfare of the **Madeiran people**.

## Impact on Construction Sector

Gomes highlighted that the **construction sector** is currently the primary driver of investment and job creation in Madeira, employing around **20,000 workers**. The implementation of a **duodécimos** regime, resulting from the budget rejection, is detrimental to the socioeconomic fabric of the region.

He warned that the annual budget creates expectations for **tax benefits**, advantages for retirees, and public service enhancements, all of which are now jeopardized due to the rejection. "Everyone is adversely affected, especially since the construction sector encompasses a large majority of the Madeiran population," he noted.

## Political Reactions

The proposed budget and investment plan, amounting to **€2.611 billion** and **€1.112 billion** respectively, were dismissed during a general discussion on Monday, with votes against from **PS, JPP, Chega, IL, and PAN**. Only **PSD** and **CDS-PP**, having signed a parliamentary agreement but lacking an absolute majority, voted in favor.

While the budget rejection does not necessitate the government's resignation, it means that Madeira will operate under a duodécimos regime in 2025 or until new proposals are approved.

Gomes criticized the decision, stating, "This is an incorrect, irresponsible, and undignified attitude," warning that it prevents the initiation of significant projects such as **road connections**, the **third phase of the new hospital**, social housing initiatives, and the **revitalization of Funchal's port**.

## Future Political Landscape

Despite the lack of an absolute majority, Gomes affirmed that the current government remains legitimate, advocating for stability over frequent elections. He pointed out the unique situation of being in a duodécimos regime for an extended period, warning that this reflects a **lack of vision** and **poor-quality politics**.

The political landscape may shift further as a **motion of censure** against the regional government, presented by Chega, is set to be voted on Tuesday. This motion is justified by ongoing judicial processes involving **Miguel Albuquerque** and several regional secretaries, and its approval could lead to the government's resignation until a new team is installed.

A Associação dos Industriais de Construção da Madeira classifica o chumbo do Orçamento e do Plano de Investimentos da região para 2025 como uma atitude "incorreta, irresponsável e indigna", vincando que denota "alheamento da realidade" por parte dos partidos.

Political Turmoil in Madeira: Construction Association Slams Budget Rejection as Irresponsible

### Discover the Rota Vicentina
The **Atlantic waters** crash against the sandy beaches of the **Algarve**, bordered by rugged cliffs. Here, **surfers** await the next wave while **swimmers** enjoy the refreshing ocean. In this unique environment, **white storks** nest along the cliffs, an unparalleled sight in the world. Luis Coelho, a tourism expert, emphasizes the region's charm, noting its **cultural richness** and **natural beauty**.

### A Journey Through Portugal's History
Delve into the **Rota Vicentina**, an extensive network of hiking and cycling routes across the **Alentejo** and **Algarve** regions. This trail offers three main options:
1. **Circular routes** for daily hikes from a single location.
2. **The Historical Way** for a glimpse into rural Portugal and its **cork tree** production.
3. **The Fisherman's Trail**, the most popular and challenging route, spanning **140 miles (226.5 km)** over **12 stages**.

### The Fisherman's Trail
“The Fisherman’s Trail connects picturesque beaches and cliffs,” explains Luis. This route allows hikers to experience **protected areas**, where they can easily access secluded beaches. The trail promotes **local experiences**, guiding hikers to meet artisans and enjoy authentic Portuguese culture, moving away from touristy hotspots.

### Supporting Local Communities
Managed by the **Rota Vicentina Association**, the trails aim to promote tourism beyond the summer months, revitalizing inland villages suffering from depopulation. Luis shares, “The project encourages visitors to explore the less-traveled paths, supporting local cafes and businesses.” This initiative fosters a balance between tourism and community support, allowing hikers to experience the **genuine** essence of Portugal.

### Highlights Along the Trail
As you hike from **Arrifana to Carrapateira**, enjoy breathtaking coastal views interspersed with valleys, cork trees, and the occasional shepherd with cows. Stay at the **regenerative tourism project in Pedralva**, where visitors can experience the charm of rural Portugal.

### Culinary Delights and Natural Wonders
Experience the local cuisine, which blends **Islamic, European, and African** influences, with fresh seafood, figs, and almonds. The **Cape St. Vincent**, a historically significant site, offers stunning views and a glimpse into Portugal's storied past.

### Conclusion
The **Rota Vicentina** is not just a hiking trail; it’s an immersive journey through the heart of Portugal, offering a chance to support local communities while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes.

We speak to Luis Coelho, a destination expert, about the Historical Way and the Fisherman's Trail routes that make up the Rota Vicentina.

Discovering the Charm of Portugal: A Journey with Cape Gazette

Summary:

A Memorable Trip to Portugal

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Other Latest News

Miguel Prata Roque Challenges the Status Quo in PS-Lisbon Leadership Bid

Portugal's Cultural Landscape Transformed: Meet the New Museum Directors!

From Siberia to Stardom: Ivan Zlobin's Inspiring Journey in Portuguese Football

Portugal's Revolutionary Plan: Citizens to Pay for Their Waste! Discover the Details

Inside the PCP's Struggles: Members Reflect on Challenges and Media Criticism

Political Turmoil in Madeira: Construction Association Slams Budget Rejection as Irresponsible

Explore the Breathtaking Rota Vicentina: Portugal's Hidden Coastal Gem