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SELLING PROPERTIES FOR 24 YEARS !!!
FREE GRATIS - FREI - GRATUITEMENT - VAPAA Every 2 weeks, Edition 22, 7th May - 20th May 2010
High Above The Clouds
Page 5
Miss Hooters Competition
Page 7
Huge Furniture Sale
Page 11 Documents are Essential
In 1977 a small group of parachuting fanatics formed the Gran Canaria Para Club, which is located on the premises of the Aeroclub, San Agustin. This originally started after watching military troops practising jumping out of planes and landing on the sand dunes; a spectacle which inspired the curiosity of a group of civilians, who could not wait to try their hand at this fascinating sport. Soon the sport gained strength as more and more people were encouraged to try and who then became hooked on the huge adrenaline rush you experience – nothing compares with this! From the start of the club, members now total well over 1,500 who regularly jump from a privately owned Cessna-182 plane.
However the club instructors regularly take tourists and locals alike up into the skies and then proceed to jump in tandem, offering the chance to experience free fall from between 2,000 and 3,000 meters.
Experienced jumpers from all the other islands travelled to Gran Canaria in order to take part, but it was not just to enter the competition it was also to get meet up with old friends who simply like to jump together.
The club offers a large range of possibilities enabling customers to rent necessary equipment, and to use the fantastic installations offered by the Aeroclub. You can also take the opportunity of videoing and taking pictures of your jump.
Due to the high number of parachutists, the organisation liaised with the military base of Gando, who in turn provided a CASA T-19 which could comfortably accommodate all participants and to assist with their jumps. I might add that this was another motivation for experienced jumpers, as they rarely get a chance to jump from airplanes with these characteristics.
Apart from these services, the club occasionally organizes different events and competitions; such was the case on Sunday 1st May, during which the ‘VI Canarias Championship of Fast Stars’ took place.
Continued on page 4 ...
Page 17
Feria de Abril Andalucia in G.C.
Page 18
Pride ´Sparkles` Gay Pride Maspalomas
2 Island Information
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
BUS TIME TABLE
Las Palmas Airport: 928 579 000
Sea Rescue 900 202 202 & 928 467 757
Sweden - 928 260 884 Switzerland - 928 293 450
Emergency Line: 112 Police, Fire Brigade
Consulates: British Consulate Consul: Matthew Vickers
Taxis: 928 154 77 or 902 192 019
Edificio_Cataluna,_C/Luis Morote 6, 3rd Floor, Las Palmas Opening hours: Mon to Fri 8.30am to 1.30pm Telephone 928 262 508 www.ukinspain.com
Ferries: Fred Olsen 928 495 040
Ambulance: 928 492 112 Fire Brigade Las Palmas 928 446 444 Maspalomas 928 762 671 Playa del Inglés, San Agustín, San Bartolomé de Tirajana 928 762 671 Local Police Province - 092 Las Palmas 928 304 600 Maspalomas 928 764 000 Guardia Civil Province 062 Las Palmas 928 762 898 Puerto Rico 928 736 817 S. Bartolomé 928 750 222 National Police Las Palmas Masapalomas 928 764 000
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Deadline Adverts, copy changes, classifieds, clubs and editorial copy: Friday noon for the following Friday’s edition to air your views. Letters on any subject are welcomed by the Editor for publication and must arrive by 12 noon on Friday for consideration for the following Friday’s edition. Priority will be given to letters dealing with local issues. We reserve the right to amend or shorten letters. The Canary News accepts no responsibility for readers´comments. If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of our service you can write to Edificio Mercurio Torre 1, 2ºE, Playa del Inglés, Gran Canaria, España.
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Transmediterranea 928 273 884 Armas 928 327 383
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International Pension Centre 0044 191 21 87777 www.thepensionservice. ov.uk Bereavement Benefit 00441912183847 Medical Benefits 0044 191 2181999 (www.dh.gov.uk) HMRC (Tax) Chemists: Maspalomas 928 141 552 Playa del Ingles 928 762 173 San Fernando 928 771 625 Arguineguin 928 151 339 Puerto Rico 928 560 661 Mogan 928 565 504 Age Concern España 902 003 838 (www. acespana.org) Swimming Safety Red_flag: No swimming Yellow_flag:Swim with care Green_flag:Safe to swim
Health Centre Appointments 012
Markets in Gran Canaria Agüimes In front of the municipal swimming pool Thursdays 09:00-14:00 Arguineguín La Plaza Negra: Every Tuesday 08:00-14:00 CC Ancora Every Thursday 08.00-14.00 TARA Second Hand Market, Plaza de Pino Seco, Arguinegín Every Saturday 9.00 onwards Arucas Calle Francisco Gourier: Every Saturday 08:00-14:00 Gáldar General Market Plaza de Santiago de Apostól: Every Thursday 08:00-14:00. Gáldar Collectors’ Market Guaires, 26, Tel: 928.55.21.40 Ingenio En el Ejido: First Sunday of every month 09.00-15.00 Jinámar Ramblas de Jinámar (Telde): Sundays 9:00-15:00 Las Palmas Rastro Terrace on top of the bus station Every Sunday 8.00-14.00 Maspalomas Second Hand Market CC Faro 2, Campo Internacional, Maspalomas Sundays 10.00 onwards Maspalomas Artisans’ Market Next to Global Bus Station Meloneras Mercadillo en Meloneras: Every Thursday 10.00-17.00 Mendizábal Calle de Mendizábal, Vegueta, Las Palmas Third Saturday of every month Moya On top of the bus station: Every Sunday 08:00-14:00 Playa del Inglés Artesan market, at Parque Europeo, (next to the Minitren) Everyday except Sunday 19.30-23.30. Puerto de Mogán Traditional craft market Plaza del Parking, Puerto de Mogán: Every Monday 09.00-14.30 Puerto de Mogán General Market El Muelle Deportivo: Every Friday 08:00-14:00 San Fernando San Fernando Municipal Market, Maspalomas. Every Wednesday and Saturday: 08:00-14:00 San Fernando Municipal Market Skating ring in San Fernando Every second Sunday 09:00-14:00 San Mateo Every Saturday: 08:00-20:00 and Sundays 08:00-15:00. Santa Brígida Underneath the municipal park in Villa de Santa Brígida. Every Saturday 08:00-20:00 and every Sunday from 08:00-14:00 Santa Catalina Mercadillo in Las Palmas de G.C. Art Gallery of Parque de Santa Catalina Every Sunday between 08.00-14.00.
Santa Lucia Mercadillo de Santa Lucia: Every Sunday 8.00-14.00 Santa María de Guía Plaza del Casco Historico Every Tuesday and Sunday 10.00-14.00 Telde Plaza de San Gregorio, by the bus station Every Saturday 08:00-14:00 Teror Around the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino Every Sunday 08:00-14:00 Valleseco Mercado Municipal : Every Sunday 08.00-14.00 Valsequillo Calle Isla de la Gomera : Every Sunday 08:00-14:00 Vecindario Agricultural Market Recinto Ferial Every Monday 08:00-14:00 on La Karpa, Avda. de las Tirajanas Every second Saturday 08.00-14.00 Vecindario General Market Recinto Ferial Every Wednesday 08.00-14.00 Vegueta, Cultural and Craftsmanship market Plaza del Pilar Nuevo, Las Palmas de G.C. Every Sunday of every month (except July, August and Sept.) 10.00-14.00.
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The Canary News does not accept any responsibility for claims made by advertisers, either in advertisements or advertorials, nor can it be held responsible for any inaccuracies, errors, or the non appearance of advertisements or advertorials. This publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors as a result of poor quality artwork or logos supplied by advertisers and no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy or nonappearance of an advertisement or advertorial. Every effort will be made to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of articles and advertisements in this publication, however the publisher does not accept responsiblity for claims or opinions in the same. Reproduction of any part of this newspaper without the consent of the publisher is prohibited E & O E. Edita: JDC Canaries SLU, Imprime: Canarias7, C/Mimosas, s/n-Parcela 131-1ª Fase-Manzana V 35119 Pol. Ind. Arinaga, Villa de Agüimes, Gran Canaria, España.
Events 3
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
EUROPA
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Avd. Alemania 10, Playa del Ingles 35100, Gran Canaria
Tel: 928 765 812 Fax: 928 765 800
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PLAYA DEL INGLÉS
PLAYA DEL INGLÉS
PLAYA DEL INGLÉS,
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PLAYA DEL INGLÉS, BEACH PROMENADE Luxurious two-bedroom-apartment with large balcony and direct view to the sea and dunes of Maspalomas. Situated in a small, private, quiet complex with heated pool. Unique property !
PLAYA DEL INGLÉS Very spacious, luxurious bungalow with large livingroom, fully equiped kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and large terrace. Central location. Forms part of a small quiet private complex with pool. Close to the beach and several shopping centres. Community fee only 70,- euros/month. PRICE: 350.000 euros
PLAYA DEL INGLÉS
Apartment at the street down to the beach! This furnished apartment consists of: One bedroom, bathroom, livingroom, separate kitchen and balcony. Low monthly community fee. Complex with pool and parkinglots. At 2 minutes walking to the beach ! Price: 69.000 euros
Beautiful completely renovated and furnished apartment with 54 m² living area. It consists of one bedroom, livingroom with kitchen, bathroom and balcony. Complex with large pools and proper parkinglots. Low community fee !! PRICE: 98.000 euros
PRICE: 390.000 euros
TOP FLOOR. Bright, furnished three room apartment with balcony. Central. Quiet. Near Yumbo. Only three minutes walk to the beach. Heated Pool ! Price: 114.000 euros
SELLING PROPERTIES FOR 24 YEARS !!! Fiestas and Upcoming Events
HERE WE give you some of the most relevant dates during which something of general interest is happening on the island. Don’t be afraid to visit these events or even to actively participate in them, most are open to everyone and anyone. When wanting to visit a fiesta, always remember that most activities take part during the morning and then restart from about six pm. We are in Spain and both lunch and siestas are almost religious customs which all Canarians take extremely seriously. Also take into account that the big days will inevitably be during the weekend. Be adventurous and enjoy the Island like one of the natives!
Valleseco Trek
1st Santa Lucia Tapas Route
7th and 14th May Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, Las Palmas.
April to 31st August. 1 tapa and a drink for 3€ in participating bars and restaurants. Avenida de Canarias in Vecindario and Santa Lucia Village. For more info contact your local Tourist office. Fiestas of El Tablero in Honor of the Santisima Trinidad 7th - 16th May. Consult programme at local tourist office. El Tablero, San Bartolome de Tirajana. 9th Trek San Bartolome de Tirajana 15th May Artenara – Tamadaba – Los Berrazales. For more info; deportes@maspalomas. com
8th May Los Moriscos – Montañon Negro – La Retamilla – Valsendero. For More info; turismo@valleseco.es Sunday 9th May Official Gay Pride Closing Pool Party, Apartamentos Dorotea, Avda de Tirma, 2pm to 8pm. Relax, recover & rejuvenate. Chillout music, pool, bar and bar snacks. Tickets 5 euros at main Yumbo ticket office or on the door. Gran Canaria Philarmonic Orquestra
Fiestas de San Isidro 15th May Galdar and Artenara. Romeria de San Fernando 22nd May San Fernando, San Bartolome de Tirajana.
British Births Abroad Congratulations if you’ve got a baby on the way! No doubt you’ll have your hands full with your new arrival, but don’t forget to register the birth with the Spanish authorities, as is required. It is advisable to do this within eight days at the nearest Civil Register Office though you may be allowed up to thirty days, or more under special circumstances, following the birth. If you are married then either parent can register the birth, but if not, both parents will have to go along. Getting this registration sorted will be vital for your child to access healthcare and education in the future. Of course, as always with Spanish procedures, you should contact the Spanish authorities directly if you would like more information. There is no obligation to register your child’s birth with the British Consulate-General. However, I hear of lots of people who would like a record of the birth to exist with the UK authorities. If your child is a British National and is born here in Spain, their birth can be registered at the Consulate-General in Madrid by the Passport and Nationality Section. Once registered, you can obtain a British birth certificate from the Consulate-General. At the end of each year, copies of all registrations are sent to the General Register Office in the UK. You can also get a birth certificate from them. You can find all the relevant information and forms at: http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk/en/help-forbritish-nationals/living-in-spain/birth-registration You’ll need to send the application form along with the documentation and fee listed on our website to the Consulate-General in Madrid. If you’re already sending another application to the capital, for example to request a passport for your child, why not register the birth at the same time? If your children are grown up, or if you were born in Spain and didn’t register the birth with the Consulate-General, it’s not too late to make the application. Providing you supply the right documentation and fee, the birth can still be registered at the British Consulate-General and the registration lodged with the General Register Office. Particularly if you intend to move back to the UK to live, you could find that having you or your child’s birth already registered is really convenient. For example, you may be required to provide a British birth certificate when claiming family benefits in the UK. For more information on birth registration and other services offered by the British Consular Network in Spain, see ukinspain.fco.gov.uk I hope you and your growing family stay healthy and well, All the best, Matthew Vickers, British Consul, Canary Islands
4 Local News
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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High Above The Clouds Continued from front page ... The idea of the competition is that each team, which includes 6 members plus a camera man, documents the activity to ensure that the jump is legal. Each team must jump in line and the time starts counting from the moment the first jumper lifts his or her feet of the jumping platform. Once in the air, and whilst free falling, they must form a round star and hold it for 3 seconds; all of this being visually documented by the camera man. The team who manages this in the least time wins the competition. In order to make it fairer for all teams the organisation mixes jumpers of different levels of experience in order to obtain a good and equal mixture
Mahy Villanueva
Young Canarian Motocross Champion. One more time a Young Canarian sporting figure has proven that they also can be placed among the best in Spain. Mahy Villanueva a Young Motocross Canarian won the title of champion of the 1st Andalucía Championship which took place in April. Right from the start of the trial races, which were held so that contestants could get used to the track, Mahy proved to be very strong managing a seventh place on the starting line. After a fantastic start he managed to place himself in a fighting first position, hand in hand with the best drivers of this category. In the second race Mahy again started strong, positioning himself first which he would not abandon until the checkered flag awarded him the victory. With these fantatic results he has achieved the necessary points in order to position himself in the first place of the national championship, well done!
The Las Palmas Carnival Beats all Media Records Yet again the Las Palmas Carnival has proven to be a total success not only because it has managed to attract well over 200,000 visitors but also for the massive media coverage received from television, radio, newspapers, reports and the internet. A study done by Kantar Media Intelligence, has proven that a total of 1,114 informative report references have been produced about the Carnival; reaching well over 226,000.000 viewers and readers. Of the total ,1114 references a total of 440 were written articles in newspapers and magazines, 59 in both national and local television channels, 28 in radio and 587 on the Internet. An interesting piece of information is that a total of 15 hours were dedicated to the Las Palmas Carnival on all 6 main television channel (TVE1, TVE2, Antena 3, Cuatro, tele 5 and La Sexta. This does not include the Canarian channel and other local TV Channels which would multiply this by 4 times. A fantastic result for an event which every year grows bigger, both inside and outside our borders.
of participants for each team. However the day did not go according to plan because of delays by the pilots, who were in charge of taking them up, so instead of having 6 jumps the teams only managed 5. So as a ‘grand finale’ they decided to get together on the final jump and make a big star (as seen on front page). I think the images speak for themselves; it must be quite a thrill to simply drop from an airplane into the wide open spaces. So if you would like to give it a go, get yourself down there and I’m sure the friendly staff will be more than willing to offer you an experience you will never forget. By Tito Cabral
Art Reclaims Your Used Clothes With the change of season many Canarians and foreign residents change the clothes they wear. Out go the long sleeves, long trousers, jumpers and boots and in come the shorts, short sleeves and flip-flops. With this, Maroussia Rebecq and his team don’t want your old clothes to be forgotten in the bottom of your draws never to be seen again, as they needed well over 3 tons of clothes for their performance workshop “The Clothes of Las Palmas” which was held on the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th of May.
Andrea Crews (www.andreacrews.com) as this artistic congregation is known, created a unique collection of clothes based on the donations of the Canarian People. Fashion, Art and activism are the three pillars on which the Andreas Crews work; a group composed of stylists, designers, musicians, video artists and performers, all lead by Maroussia Rebecq. Andreas Crews have already performed in other cities such as Bilbao, Valencia and Madrid, and after each performance the clothes are donated to the charity ONG for distribution amongst the most needy. Let’s hope they will be back to normal very quickly.
Local News 5
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
‘Hooters’ Gran Canaria Choose Their ‘Miss’
I’m sure at one point or another we have all heard of Hooters restaurants and bars; a chain of American themed restaurants who today have 465 establishments all over the world in the form of franchises. In Spain the name was not very well known until recently, when a group of Canarian business men got together and decided to open the first one in the south of Tenerife. After its massive success they did not think twice and six months ago decided to open one in Anexo II in Playa del Ingles. One thing that has always characterised these restaurants is the serving staff, which is composed of young and beautiful women between the ages of 20 and 30. They are chosen for their beauty, coordination, friendliness and their attention to their customers, and a competition is held to choose which girl is crowned ‘Queen’. On 23rd April ‘Miss Hooters’ Spain was chosen in the Gran Canarian restaurant, during a night full of showmanship, music and above all great beauty. Customers and invited guest were all congregated around a purpose built stage which would host the show and be presented by Capitolino Sanchez. From the start the night promised to be entertaining as a group of motorcyclists arrived on their massive chopper bikes, wearing the characteristic leather gear, the contest entrants immediately jumped on the back of the bikes which then
paraded around the large Anexo II area, encouraging visitors and passersby to join the party. The seven girls were expected to parade on stage on four different occasions; the first being with their own versions of their usual working uniforms, secondly in swimsuits, thirdly wearing jeans and finally wearing an evening gown. All this under the watchful eye of the jury which was made up of local figures related to night life, dancing and the entertainment world. These were not only taking into consideration the beauty of the girls but also their creativity, the sympathy and friendliness they projected and their choreography numbers, as well as the reaction of the public with their performances. Finally a young girl called Catha Perez was proclaimed ‘Miss Hooters, Gran Canaria’ and will be representing Spain in the next’ World Miss Hooters’ which will be celebrated in Miami this year. She was accompanied by Cathaisa Castro, first Maid of Honour and Susana Berry, Second Maid of Honour. Congratulations to the winners and to the organisers of the event, and let us wish Catha the best of luck in the big final. by Tito Cabral
Road Works in Tejeda Begin After weeks of demanding, local businesses in Tejeda seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, as finally the road works have finally started which will enable tourists to get to their village from the south of the island.
The works which initially were estimated to take about a year to complete will only take two and halve months with a total investment of 1.9 million Euros. The road which joins San Fernando with Tejeda collapsed because of the past storms, causing headaches to local businesses. This meant there was a distinct lack of passing tourists, which had an adverse affect on their income, and on which they are totally reliant. Let’s hope they will be back to normal very quickly.
6 Local News
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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First Tapas Route in Santa Lucia The Ayuntamiento of Santa Lucia has joined the initiative of other municipalities on the island by organizing a Tapas Route to enable both locals and tourists to enjoy the gastronomy of its restaurants and specific regions. The route which started on the 1st April will run through til 31st August, giving everyone not only the chance of enjoying it once but several times if they wish it. Participating restaurants and bars are obliged to offer its visitors a small Tapa and a drink, in the form of a soft drink, glass of wine or beer for the amazing price of 3€. Bear in mind that it is a small Tapa and you would have to visit several bars before feeling completely full, but it is a good way of tasting several different bits and pieces and seeing different bars and restaurants.
The Ayuntamiento of Santa Lucia intends to ensure that visitors who would like to walk the route get to know the commercial area of Vecindario, Avenida de Canarias, (as reported in our last edition) and besides visiting the participating establishments may be encouraged to spend money in one of the many other businesses too.
Avda. Canarias. Pasteleria Cafeteria Alameda, Avda. Canarias. Bar Cafeteria El Serranito, Avda. Canarias. Asadero de Pollos El Ficus, Avda. Canarias. Bar Cafeteria Restaurante La Dama de Hierro, Avda. Canarias. Bar-Piscolabis El Sabor de Canarias, Avda. Canarias. Churreria Cafe Bar Vecindario, C/ 1º de Mayo. Cafeteria El Paso, C/ 1º de Mayo. Jamonal La Mostaraza, Avda. Canarias. Cafe Piscolabis Paco’me, C/ 1º de Mayo. Cafeteria Avenida, Avda. Canarias. Restaurante La Floridita, C/ Agustin de
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The participating restaurants are the following: In Vecindario; Cafe Balos, Avda. Canarias. Pizza Cafe Buenos Aires Express, Avda. Canarias. Bar Cafeteria Piscolabis Bentayga,
Aragon. El Sitio Iberico, C/ Domingo Doreste. Cafe Bosco, C/ 1º de Mayo. Restaurante El Mirador, C/ Maestro Enriquez Hernandez Gonzalez. Restaurante Casa Antonio, C/ Maestro Enriquez Hernandez Gonzalez. In Santa Lucia; Restaurante Mariquita Lopez, C/ Tomas Arroyo Cardoso. Restaurante Hao, C/ Vicente Sanchez Araña. Restaurante La Caldera, C/ Tomas Arroyo Cardoso. If you would like more info on this event and the restaurants as well as the tapas themselves, contact your local tourist office as they can provide you with an information pamphlet with all the information in English and German. By Tito Cabral
1st Anniversary of the Maspalomas Agricultural Market A while ago I heard talk about an agricultural market which takes place in the San Fernando Skating rink every 2nd Sunday so decided to go and see it and report back to you. It is a fantastic initiative by the Ayuntamiento of San Bartolome de Tirajana who had invited local and agricultural businesses from other municipals to set up a stall and sell their produce direct to the public, thus eliminating the middle man and enabling us to by fresh quality Canarian products at a very reasonable price.
This of course has pleased both the owner, who receives more money for their work (a fairer share if you ask me) and the shoppers who get a fabulous deal. 2nd March this particular market celebrated their very first anniversary proving how successful it has become and with the general public. In celebration of their first anniversary, the Ayuntamiento organised several activities which added to the enormous
charm this congregation of local producers already has. On this occasion, several Canarian businesses of local produce such as cheese and wine were invited to individually promote their produce, for this the Ayuntamiento organised the setting up of tents in which each organisation displayed their produce to promote themselves.
atmosphere. In front of them the Ayuntamiento set up a table with a large number of hampers made up of products sold in the market which were then raffled at the end of the day. Visitors who bought something from one of the stalls were given numbered tickets to enter the prize draw. Also in the draw, was a massive flat screen
The banana growers association, which is currently undergoing very difficult times due to aggressive competition from banana producers in South America, set up a point and were giving away their produce, inviting visitors to taste the quality of our bananas. They encouraged the people to not only taste them but to demand more to be for sale.
For me as a food addict, it was a great morning out, and the products displayed looked extremely fresh and appetising, but I think that for me the most gratifying thing was to see the great number of tourists and foreigners shopping hand in hand with the Canarians. Let’s just hope that this market stays with us for many years to come, so get yourselves down there as you will be pleasantly surprised.
Inside the main market area a local folklore Canarian group were playing and singing Canarian songs which added a nice touch to the whole market
By Tito Cabral
Dog Lovers Congregate in Parque Sur On 24th and 25th April dog lovers from around the island were presented with a treat in Parque Sur in Maspalomas. The Gran Canaria Agility Club together with the Consejalia of Sports of the Ayuntamiento of San Bartolome de Tirajana organised dog training seminars and the II Canarian Agility Championship which attracted not only aficionados from our island but also from as far as the mainland. The spot chosen for the event was one of the football pitches available in this area, giving the organisation a massive area to set up the main obstacles which each participating dog would have to go through during the competition. At the same time this provided a huge seating capacity for the many dog lovers and visitors to also enjoy the show. The seminar which was conducted by Pere Saavedra, World Agility Champion, was open to all and the aim of the seminars was to introduce trainers and dog owners, to ‘Trickdogging’ which basically consists of positive training, working with games and having fun with your pet.
Entrants had to pay a fee of 150€ and were taught tricks and canine abilities which would enable them to get the most out of their dogs. The activity was sponsored by Can Avanza a well known company which specialises in canine sports. Running alongside, the II Canarian Agility Championship was also held, and for this the organisation set up a large obstacle course over which all dogs and owners had to go through in the least possible time. Several categories took place taking into consideration the size and ability of each dog. It is a spectacular sports which reflects the symbiosis between dog and owner and how well they can work together, offering viewers a spectacular show which people of different ages can enjoy. The dog agility sport is on the increase; a fact which was shown by the large number of participants and viewers who attended the event.
Local News 7
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
Huge Sale of Second Hand, High Quality Hotel Furniture
PIC 1
PIC 4 When the lease ran out on an exclusive bungalow complex in Salobre Golf, the tenant was unable to renew it, so the entire contents, which is all just 1-2 years old, was due to be shipped to Italy to create a similar complex. Unfortunately this hasn’t happened, so now we are offering the readers of The Canary News the opportunity of purchasing any of the items on display. Come and take a look at what we are offering including elegant chairs, tables, sofas, and one of our special highlights – sunbeds made from sturdy aluminium which are extremely light – pictures, refrigerators, etc. We have over 3,000 items all in very good condition; see below for a few examples. terrace table 75€, terrace chair 60€, umbrella incl. stand 45€, (PIC 1) “new” still in original packing, restaurant chairs, black leather, cost 246€ now 100€, (PIC 2) Sofa with cushions 125€, (PIC 3) Matching armchair with cushions 85€, (PIC 4)
PIC 3
PIC 2
PIC 5 ‘Designer’ sunbed, extremely light, original price 1.420€ now 125€, (PIC 5) Wicker-type chair 55€, wicker mirror 55€, etc. (PIC 6) Other Items: Barstool 45€, complete food catering furniture, round aluminium bistro tables 35€, pictures 25€, small wooden chest of drawers 20€, Billboards, ironing board and plastic clothes airer 10€, Jacuzzi for 6–8 persons original price 13.500€ now 4.800€, motorbike 49ccm 2.300km 500€, ventilator 20€, air conditioning unit 70€, hotel laundry such as towels, bed varnishes etc., various outdoor plants, electrical appliances ie, coffee machine, lamps, juicer, fryer, grinder, cutlery, etc., high-gloss trash bin for terrace, “Bain-Marie” cold and warm unit, stainless steel work unit, drinks fridge and much more.
PIC 6
It is easy to find, and will be held in the warehouse of Mudanzas Phoenix. Take the GC1 heading towards Las Palmas, then exit at the Industrial Area Vecindario/Arinaga, we are next to Muebles Atlantico Norte, C/ Los Dragos. Saturday 15/05/2010 and Saturday 22/05/2010 from 09.00 - 13.00. Come early, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
8 Letters to the Editor
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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Please write to us and The Canary News will award the Letter of the Week a Free COMBO meal at Fusion Restaurant & Lounge Bar in Arguineguin (See advertisement below for address) The Canary News reserves the right to edit your letters and accepts no responsility for readers’ opinions.
Letter of the week Hello The Canary News, Following our conversation this morning here are details of our story telling night. My Husband was a member of a group in Dublin called the “Yarnspinners” where people meet and as the name suggests spin a yarn. I thought it would be a good idea to start something like that here so last month we had a ‘yarnspinners’ night in our house. We had 14 people Irish ,English,Norweigan,German, all English speaking, and I can say it was a very enjoyable evening. We all paid 5€ which went towards our charity Josephine Charles Foundation which regular readers will associate with Kay Owen. So May 15th 7.30 to kick off at 8pm refreshments food and drink included.We finish by 11 pm so the night is still young for people who want to party on elsewhere. Thank you. Mena O’ Riada, tel. 660375659 house 928768459 for further details Sounds different and good fun, anyone wanting to join in please contact Mena directly. Ed
To The Editor Maybe Home Sweet Homes would like to respond to this message and explain why a rental deposit of over 700 € paid in cash was returned in the form of a Spanish cheque, at 8pm Friday night, to a woman they knew had to fly back to Finland the next morning. Of course they promised that it would be as good as cash even abroad, but no - yet another person who feels ripped off and hesitant about bringing her family back here next winter. Theresa (Spanish teacher to Hieni and her family from Finland this winter)
Next time I try to write in Spanish and not to be so angry. Saludos Heini We have had many complaints about rental on the island and how people feel they are being ‘ripped’ off hence we have published this letter. This does not mean The Canary News either agrees or disagrees with the writer, however, if a representative of the aforementioned companies would like to contact us we shall publish your response. Ed Dear Canary News, I have decided to write to you to tell you how useful I found your last feature on where Canarian people go to shop. I visited some of the places you suggested including the shop where they sell ‘gofio’, yes it’s not easy to find but as you said everyone knows where it is. Their prices were well below the normal supermarket price. I also visited the extra large size shop, as I do have problems finding clothes to fit me, and was delighted at the lovely selection they have there. I had a great time and bought loads of things especially underwear. So thank you to your reporter who gave us the names of shops to go and I will certainly try the other recommendations and look forward to other articles like this. Yours kindly, Betty Endel, Maspalomas Betty, thank you for your kind words and we are very happy to have helped. Look out for further bargain shops in the future. Ed I must say, since reading the Canary News on a regular basis, it has gone from strength to strength. I particularly like the fact that you are introducing new sections all the time. These are a welcome change and as a golfer, I thought Mark’s first article was really good and look forward to more.
Hola Dear Theresa!
My wife loves the fashion, cookery and beauty pages and has started cutting them out to save, as well of course the Spanish lessons by Theresa.
I am very sorry that I haven wrote you for long time. Thank you one more time everything what you did!
Keep up the good work! Ian Kendal
Thank you also that you tried to help with that check. You was right it was a big mistake to take that check. Paco gave it to me 8.00 pm Friday night !
Nice to hear that you enjoy our new sections. We try to accommodate most peoples’ tastes and in the coming editions you will see new feature writers appear as well as a section on Finance. Ed
On Monday I went to the bank here in Finland and first thing what they said was oh no ....that cost lot when they change it. In Finland they take 90 € and then they send it to Spain and Spanish bank charge more usually more than in Finland ...mierda Whole last week I sent emails to Home Sweet Home, I told that I could send this check back and Pacos company could put the money to my account. Owner said it is my problem if the bank charge something not theirs good bye... So tell to all of your friends never ever use Home Sweet Home or PROTISA PROYECTOS TINAMAR if you want to rent a house. I also thought if I could sent this check back to you if you could go to the bank, but the problem is the check is not valid after 28.4 .
Dear Editor, It was good to read the letter in the last newspaper about the disgusting people who stand around the Yumbo trying to persuade tourists to go on these blessed trips. The letter seems to have worked as since it was published I haven’t seen any of the usual ‘dregs’ around there, and also it seems that it is illegal to tout for business or anything on the public pavement. It’s about time things were done to clean up Gran Canaria, as we have also seen a big difference in the number of people coming over on holiday. Let’s hope with Gay Pride we will get back our usual tourists. Regards, Ben Little Hopefully they will stay off the streets and keep their abusive behaviour to themselves. Ed
Dear Editor, We were one of the families caught up in the flight delays two weeks ago, and although it was quite annoying at the time, as we were all packed and ready to go home, we decided to make the best of things and just enjoy our extra ‘family’ time. My wife had soaked up the sun all week and got a nice tan, so she was quite willing to spend more time with our two young teenagers playing crazy golf and even going on a jeep safari! You would normally not get her anywhere near the jeeps. However, they thoroughly enjoyed themselves and it gave them a chance to see a bit more of the island instead of just laying on the beach. For my part, I actually managed to get time just relaxing with a good book, which again, normally I don’t do as the family are always wanting to go somewhere or doing something else, and I have to drive them about. So you can imagine it was sheer bliss to be able to read during the day and then as a family just walk out in the evenings taking in the sights at a slower pace. We even managed to get to the famous Yumbo Centre this time and was pleasantly surprised at the selection of bars and restaurants there. So, everything considered, we had a good time and made the best of a ‘bad job’. Yours sincerely, Mike and Elsa Brown It just goes to show that out of every bad experience comes something good, if people would just learn to use their initiative. Ed Hi The Canary News, Just had to write to you as I always read your paper online, and I am so excited as Gay Pride is coming up again and I am really looking forward to coming over. I came last year and had a ball, the people were so nice, loads to do and see, but especially I enjoyed the parade. I hope the parade is as good this year as it was before. What I particularly liked, besides seeing all the different outfits, was the fact that there were lots of nationalities taking part and just having fun. The council put on some good shows in the Yumbo Centre and it was really buzzing. I hope you will be covering the event again this year, so keep up the good work, and who knows I might even try and get on one of the floats this year. Kisses, Jay. Jay, nice to hear you read our newspaper online. We are happy to provide this service to people who don’t live on the island. And yes, we will be covering Gay Pride again; our main reporter Tito will be travelling on the ‘Sparkles’ float so should get some good pics and stories. Have a great time and let us know how it went. Ed
Canarian Character 9
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
Paquita The ‘Bag Lady’
Originally from Palma in Majorca, Paquita González and her family have lived in Gran Canaria for the last 35 years. Both accomplished musicians, Paquita and her husband José have performed as a duo in many top hotels. Later, Paquita turned her creative talents to photography, while Jose continued to pursue his passion for live music, especially country but also acoustic ‘classics’ ranging from Frank Sinatra to the Beatles and Rolling Stones. The couple are also well-known in the south for being the first locals to combine aloe vera with freshly squeezed juices which they´ve been selling for the last 18 years at the San Fernando municipal market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings (local 38b, opposite the German bakery). José, who swears by his morning tonic of fresh aloe vera, says that it boosts his energy and circulation, cleans the blood, aids digestion and calms stomach upsets –
especially when combined with the vitamin C found in papaya and oranges.
Adding yet another string to her bow, seven years ago the multi-talented mother-of-five also became a professional seamstress, working from home in Pasito Blanco to help make ends meet through clothing alterations, upholstery, and made-tomeasure curtains. Art on your sleeve Such skills fit perfectly with the latest venture of our ‘bag lady’ extraordinaire. Having become friends over 30 years ago with Catalan painter Lidia Bros, Paquita recently hooked up again with the artist to launch a new creative initiative. The pair mount Lydia´s original acrylic paintings onto beautifully-designed bags, each one unique, eye-catching and lovingly created using a variety of recycled
fabrics. The images featured, often framed in complementary colours, include those typical of the island´s nature, architecture and wildlife, in addition to more cuttingedge designs featuring the faces of striking oriental or Spanish beauties.
While a selection of the surprisingly inexpensive bags are already available to the public from the Apartamentos Las Arenas’ shop (opposite the Metro shopping centre in Playa del Inglés), and Señor Exposito´s art shop in Arguineguin, the creative duo are also taking part in an exciting new project being funded by the Borough of San Bartolomé de Tirajana.
bags featured here. To be located next to the Tourist Information Office on the Playa de Inglés beach, we look forward to updating readers on the inauguration of this fantastic asset to the local community. So what made this Majorcan family choose to settle in Gran Canaria? ‘After being here a decade, we did return home for three years,’ explains Paquita, ‘but we realised that people back there had also moved on, while we missed the relaxed lifestyle, diverse people, fantastic weather and year-round opportunities to work in the tourist sector that Gran Canaria offers.’ By Theresa Coe For more information about personalized handbags or if you´re seeking an affordable seamstress, contact theresacoe@gmail.com (Paquita and José´s English speaking neighbour!)
As members of Tirjanak, a co-operative of local handicraft workers, Paquita and Lydia will shortly be joining around 30 other talented ‘artesanos’ to launch a new centre providing workshops, training, cultural events and the opportunity for the public to buy a wide range of handmade, locally-produced goodies such as the
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10 Family Life
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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Children as Easy as 1-2-3 Most children generate a little chaos and disorganization. Yours might flit from one thing to the next - forgetting books at school, leaving towels on the floor, and failing to finish projects once started. You’d like them to be more organized and to stay focused on tasks, such as homework. Is it possible?
Here’s how you might walk your child through the steps: 1. Getting Organized: Explain that this step is all about getting ready. It’s about figuring out what kids need to do and gathering any necessary items.For instance: “So you have a book report to write. What do you need to do to get started?”
Yes, it is. A few children seem naturally organized, but for the rest, organization is a skill learned over time. With help and some practice, children can develop an effective approach to getting things done. And you’re the perfect person to teach your child, even if you don’t feel all that organized yourself!
Help your child make a list of things like: Choose a book. Make sure the book is OK with the teacher. Write down the book and the author’s name. Check the book out of the library. Mark the due date on a calendar. Then help your child think of the supplies needed: The book, some note cards, a pen for taking notes, the teacher’s list of questions to answer, and a report cover. Have your child gather the supplies where the work will take place.
Easy as 1-2-3 For children, all tasks can be broken down into a 1-2-3 process. Getting organized means a child gets where he or she needs to be and gathers the supplies needed to complete the task. Staying focused means sticking with the task and learning to say “no” to distractions. Getting it done means finishing up, checking your work, and putting on the finishing touches, like remembering to put a homework paper in the right folder and putting the folder inside the backpack so it’s ready for the next day. Once children know these steps - and how to apply them - they can start tackling tasks more independently. That means homework, chores, and other tasks will get done with increasing consistency and efficiency. Of course, children will still need parental help and guidance, but you probably won’t have to nag as much. Not only is it practical to teach these skills, but knowing how to get things done will help your child feel more competent and effective. Children feel self-confident and proud when they’re able to accomplish their tasks and responsibilities. They’re also sure to be pleased when they find they have some extra free time to do what they’d like to do. From Teeth Brushing to Book Reports To get started, introduce the 1-2-3 method and help your child practice it in daily life. Even something as simple as brushing teeth requires this approach, so you might use this example when introducing the concept: Getting organized: Go to the bathroom and get out your toothbrush and toothpaste. Turn on the water. Staying focused: Dentists say to brush for 3 minutes, so that means keep brushing, even if you hear a really good song on the radio or you remember that you wanted to call your friend. Concentrate and remember what the dentist told you about brushing away from your gums. Getting it done: If you do steps 1 and 2, step 3 almost takes care of itself. Hurray, your 3 minutes are up and your teeth are clean! Getting it done means finishing up and putting on the finishing touches. With teeth brushing, that would be like turning off the water, putting away the toothbrush and paste, and making sure there’s no toothpaste foam on your face! With a more complex task, like completing a book report, the steps would become more involved, but the basic elements remain the same. Here’s how you might walk your child through the steps: 1. Getting Organized: Explain that this step is all about getting ready. It’s about figuring out what children need to do and gathering any necessary items. For instance: “So you have a book report to write. What do you need to do to get started?” Help your child make a list of things like: Choose a book. Make sure the book is OK with the teacher. Write down the book and the author’s name. Check the book out of the library. Mark the due date on a calendar.
Then help your child think of the supplies needed: The book, some note cards, a pen for taking notes, the teacher’s list of questions to answer, and a report cover. Have your child gather the supplies where the work will take place. As the project progresses, show your child how to use the list to check off what’s already done and get ready for what’s next. Demonstrate how to add to the list, too. Coach your child to think, “OK, I did these things. Now, what’s next? Oh yes, start reading the book” and to add things to the list like finish the book, read over my teacher’s directions, start writing the report. From Teeth Brushing to Book Reports To get started, introduce the 1-2-3 method and help your child practice it in daily life. Even something as simple as brushing teeth requires this approach, so you might use this example when introducing the concept: 1.Getting organized: Go to the bathroom and get out your toothbrush and toothpaste. Turn on the water. 2.Staying focused: Dentists say to brush for 3 minutes, so that means keep brushing, even if you hear a really good song on the radio or you remember that you wanted to call your friend. Concentrate and remember what the dentist told you about brushing away from your gums. 3.Getting it done: If you do steps 1 and 2, step 3 almost takes care of itself. Hurray, your 3 minutes are up and your teeth are clean! Getting it done means finishing up and putting on the finishing touches. With teeth brushing, that would be stuff like turning off the water, putting away the toothbrush and paste, and making sure there’s no toothpaste foam on your face! With a more complex task, like completing a book report, the steps would become more involved, but the basic elements remain the same.
As the project progresses, show your child how to use the list to check off what’s already done and get ready for what’s next. Demonstrate how to add to the list, too. Coach your child to think, “OK, I did these things. Now, what’s next? Oh yeah, start reading the book” and to add things to the list like finish the book, read over my teacher’s directions, start writing the report. 2. Staying Focused: Explain that this part is about doing it and sticking with the job. Tell children this means doing what you’re supposed to do, following what’s on the list, and sticking with it. It also means focusing when there’s something else your child would rather be doing - the hardest part of all! Help children learn how to handle and resist these inevitable temptations. While working on the report, a competing idea might pop into your child’s head: “I feel like playing some football now.” Teach children to challenge that impulse by asking themselves “Is that what I’m supposed to be doing?” Explain that a tiny break to stretch a little and then get right back to the task at hand is OK. Then children can make a plan to play football after the work is done. Let them know that staying focussed is tough sometimes, but it gets easier with practice. 3. Getting it Done: Explain that this is the part when children will be finishing up the job. Talk about things like copying work neatly and asking a parent to read it over to help find any mistakes. Coach your child to take those important final steps: putting his or her name on the report, placing it in a report cover, putting the report in the correct school folder, and putting the folder in the backpack so it’s ready to be turned in. Be clear, in a kind way, that you expect your children to work on these skills and that you’ll be there to help them.
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Documents are Essential! LIVING IN Gran Canaria is most of the time wonderful, especially with the fabulous weather we are lucky to have. I am exceptionally lucky to be able to associate with the down-to-earth inhabitants due to my teaching work in a primary school in the centre of the island, which brings me in contact with the children’s parents and friends. This gives me a fantastic insight to Canarian authentic life and I have learned so much from making cheese, planting, Canarian dancing, and how to deal with the good, bad and ugly aspects of this beautiful Island. Mostly good I am pleased to say. However, the down-side, especially dealing with the bureaucracy is a nightmare. I could write a book on this aspect but it would not be favourable to the island and its’ wonderful indigenous ordinary people. My ultimate experience last week was the last straw and I am writing about my experience in this article as a warning to foreigners; English, Irish and others living on the island, especially if you do not speak Spanish. Preventative is better than the cure, as one says. On Thursday, 15th April, after cooking my lunch and realising I had no drinking water I slipped out to the supermarket nearby to buy some, thinking I would only be a few minutes but I returned six hours later mentally drained , cold, hungry, without my car or transport home safely because of being detained by the Guardia Civil for not having my Driver’s licence with me. The Incident Returning back home to my ready prepared lunch, I was stopped by the Guardia Civil. A young officer asked (or demanded my drivers’ licence arrogantly). I explained to him that I had just slipped out to buy some water in the supermarket and forgot to take my bag with my drivers’ licence in it. I only had my change purse with me. He continued to demand my drivers’ licence and I explained again politely in Spanish. My Spanish is not perfect, but I do have a qualification in Intermediate Spanish, therefore, it was quite clear. He disappeared and came back again demanding arrogantly and I replied the same. My small change purse was on the passengers’ seat. There was no doubt he could see it. The officer became very intimidating and asked how long I had lived on the Canary Islands etc etc to which I replied, eight years. He disappeared again and I was left sitting there for approximately forty five minutes, in my, car at the side of the road. There seemed to be a lot of discussion going on behind my car. There were about six Guardia Civil Officers doing the road inspection on this particular roundabout junction. It was more like a scene from a crime than a routine traffic check. In the meantime I was wondering how long I was going to be left sitting in my car. My dinner was on the table, my animals needed feeding and locking up for the night before dark on the farm and I had to prepare lesson plans for school next morning. I was thinking what a fuss over a human error in forgetting my bag with my drivers’ licence when we have two children on the island missing and approximately half a dozen adults missing. The young officer returned again demanding my drivers’ licence, I explained again and suggested he followed me home and I could show him. ‘No’, he replied. I suggested I went home and came back within a time limit. ‘No’ he replied. I suggested that he gave me a form to produce my documents within a certain time to the local Guardia Civil, as we do in England, ‘No’ he replied.
Local News 11
Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
I had run out of suggestions. I was using my initiative and skills I learned in my own time as a Police Officer in the London Metropolitan for six years. I’ve always had respect for the police forces here and never had problems like this in the eight years I have been here. They have always been very helpful. From a sociological point of view I don’t know what has changed. It all felt very repressive and facist to me. Eventually four or five Guardia Civil officers appeared around my car and one said to me, “you will have to leave your car here and leave the key with us. Also, you will have to accompany my colleagues to the Guardia Civil Police Station to sign statements” I asked what would happen to my car as it was parked in a non’parking zone (where they stopped me). I was lead to believe I could come and pick it up after the station visit. I went with the two Guardia Civil officers in the back of the police car to Aguimes Guardia Civil station. All of this because I forgot my handbag with my drivers’ licence in it. It is incredible! We arrived at the Aguimes Guardia Civil station. On arrival we met a Sergeant I knew. He was astonished that I was there under those circumstances. He tried to intervene and explained he knew me and said I have a licence and he tried to retrieve my car. Unfortunately he had to leave. They continued processing me. In the meantime the ‘grua’ comes to the station with my car and I had to sign a form to say he was taking it down south to Maspalomas vehicle compound. I signed many forms. One form was because I was detained, one because I was free to go and various others which I have no idea what it said. I just wanted to get out of the place. The last form I signed was for me to appear in court the next day in Telde at 10am. It was nine o’clock in the evening when I finally left the station. I had been approximately four hours detained. I was very tired, hungry, no lift home, as was promised to me earlier when they took my car, it was dark, cold (as my jacket was in the car) and only coins in my change purse, miles away from home out in the sticks. It was a nightmare experience. At the court I was treated in a very civilized manner. I was assigned a lawyer and she was appalled at how I was treated and for such a petty reason. We explained the facts and the Judge said that there had been a grave error on the part of the Guardia Civil and she apologised. She gave me a letter to give to the manager of the vehicle compound in Maspalomas to give me my car without costs. The moral of this story is, don’t leave home without your drivers’ licence whatever you do, even if you have to stick it to your person with glue. By Gilda Larkin-Sealey
12 Scandinavian Scene
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
Animal Rescue with Nina Blaafjell
The animal respect association (TARA) is an officially registered, non-profit organisation run by volunteers who rescue, treat, sterilise, microchip and eventually re-home abused or abandoned animals in Gran Canaria.
potential new foster carers explaining what is involved and helping them should they take in animals.
One woman who has recently become very involved in the organisation is Norwegian Anita Bratli. Anita has been living in Gran Canaria for a number of years and has always been interested in and owned animals. One of the first things she did once she arrived in Gran Canaria was to adopt two dogs. However, she adopted those dogs from a state run facility and did not like the conditions in which the dogs were kept. She has been in touch with Tara over the years but has recently become more involved in the organisation. Anita is passionate about animals and when The Canary News visited she was fostering one dog and two cats in addition to caring for her own two dogs. Since The Canary Newsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;visit, a new home was found for the little dog Anita was fostering, Marley, and she is now fostering another dog as well as the two cats that have yet to find new homes for.
The Canary News visited the Tara shop situated in Calle 67& 63 Tanausu in Arguineguin on a Saturday morning and also visited the Tara car boot sale. There are lots of bargains to be found in both places and you can of course also take part in the car boot sale selling your own items. Brian from Tara who was in the shop said he was very pleased with the new web site. He would also like to thank all those who support the orgnaisation and especially two of the many vets they work with who give big discounts to Tara, the Tenesoya Veterinary clinic in Arguineguin and the Telemascot Veterinary clinic in Maspalomas. The vet in Maspalomas has also volunteered coming out with Tara to wounded animals and taking part in mass sterilaisation projects. We would encourage pet owners to support the vets that support Tara.
She is keen to bring attention to the valuable work Tara does and to encourage others to donate or volunteer with the organisation. Unfortunately the state run facilities for animals that have been found abandoned here only keep the animals for a limited period of time and if they have not been re-homed in this time they are put down. This is of course very sad when the animals are fit and healthy. Tara on the other hand have a number of volunteers who act as foster homes meaning the animals are very comfortable whilst waiting to find a new home. Anita is keen to expand her role in the organisation and of course has connections within the Norwegian community, which will perhaps increase the number of new homes available for animals that need them. She would also like to encourage more people to foster animals and the organisation will be going round
You can also donate items to the Tara Shop. They are also always looking for volunteers, foster homes and of course people who would like to adopt an animal. You can contact Tara at their shop or by phone on 607 671 167.
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Horoscopes 13
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
ARIES Mar 21 - April 20 Life is full of ideas that don’t really make much sense, arrangements that don’t work quite as well as they ought to and explanations that sound good until you really start to think. We all know this, but we generally prefer not to dwell on the defects and drawbacks.
CANCER June 22 - July 23 You do not need to defend anything or anyone. You simply need to act with agility and integrity. A rare ‘Cosmic Cross’ is coming soon!
LIBRA Sept 24 - Oct 23 It is perfectly possible to enjoy a burger without fries, a curry without rice or a plate of sushi without wasabi. It is similarly feasible to have power without prestige, wealth without security or a problem without a crisis.
CAPRICORN Dec 23 - Jan 20 There is a real point to what is happening in your life now and a real hidden magic to it too. A rare ‘Cosmic Cross’ is coming soon! This ‘T-Square’ will bring change to the world... and it will bring change to YOUR life.
TAURUS April 23 - May 21 The more time you spend with a particular individual, the more you notice their inconsistencies and idiosyncrasies. And, of course, the more they notice yours! We can make many glorious assumptions about the folk we don’t know so well.
LEO July 24 - Aug 23 What makes you feel as if you are at home? Is it the sight of a familiar object or the presence of a particular person? Is it something in the air, something that you recognise. Under the right circumstances we can feel very much at home, even in places and spaces that we hardly know at all.
Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 22 You may not be quite where you thought you would be, but can you really say that you would prefer things to have turned out differently? As you now envisage the next phase of your life, leave room in your plans for a pleasant surprise. A rare ‘Cosmic Cross’ is coming soon!
AQUARIUS Jan 21 - Feb 19 Be patient, kind and confident now, even in situations that make you feel defenceless or defensive, and you will yet become surprisingly powerful. Perhaps you can’t win but nor are you obliged to lose.
GEMINI May 22 - June 21 We all know that if we want success, we must work for it. We know that opportunity knocks on every door, but it knocks loudest and longest on the doors of those who are ready and willing to accept it into their lives.
VIRGO Aug 24 - Sept 23 One part of you now is very keen to make progress. Another part of you is dragging its heels. You can’t just give up, you know that with in you there is the strength to go in the rigth direction.
SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 22 You are still evolving. You can’t let your choices, today, be too heavily influenced by the needs you were feeling or the desires you were entertaining, just a short while ago.
PISCES Feb 20 - Mar 20 Some people have an uncanny ability to make difficult tasks look easy. Others can turn the most simple straightforward proposition into a minefield of complication and confusion. You are capable of doing either - depending on the mood you are in!
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY “ Don’t see others as doing better than you. Beat your own records EVERYDAY & you will surely find success! Remember success is a fight between YOU & YOURSELF.”
Did you Know? Stewardesses is the longest word typed with only the left hand. And ‘lollipop’ is the longest word typed with your right hand.
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No word in the English language rhymes with month, orange, silver, or purple. ‘ Dreamt’ is the only English word that ends in the letters ‘mt’. (Are you doubting this?) Our eyes are always the same size from birth, but our nose and ears never stop growing. The sentence: ‘The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog’ uses every letter of the alphabet. The words ‘racecar,’ ‘kayak and ‘level’ are the same whether they are read left to right or right to left (palindromes). There are only four words in the English language which end in ‘dous’: tremendous, horrendous, stupendous, and hazardous. There are two words in the English language that have all five vowels in order: ‘abstemious’ and ‘facetious.’ TYPEWRITER is the longest word that can be made using the letters only on one row of the keyboard.
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A cat has 32 muscles in each ear. A goldfish has a memory span of three seconds A ‘jiffy’ is an actual unit of time for 1/100th of a second. A shark is the only fish that can blink with both eyes. A snail can sleep for three years.it burns.
Contact Wendy on 928 723 500 or Email Grancanaria.flights@tui-‐uk.co.uk Or visit us at Avda de Galdar 74, San Fernando
14 Spanish Lessons with Theresa Coe
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
Lesson 17 More Tips n Tricks Continuing last issue´s theme of finding easy ways to express yourself, here are more ideas for tricks that might jerk your memory. For instance, if you can´t remember the number catorce [cat-OR-seh; 14], think of 14 cats miaowing! For quince [kin-seh; 15] maybe picture fifteen kings. Or if you want to learn ‘banana’, ask yourself what would make the word plátano stick for you – maybe thinking that it´s golden or PLATinum-coloured. Often if we can recall the first part of a word, the rest will follow. You can also make use of short phrases that you already know to recall key words. For example if you forget the word ‘more’ maybe you can remember the phrase mas o menos (more or less). You might think you don´t know how to say ‘with’ – but I bet you can order agua CON gas. VERBS – Most English ones ending in -ATE go to -AR in Spanish:
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informarme sobre los cursos de español (I want to find out – literally to inform myself – about the Spanish courses).
un poco means a bit while un poquito means a little bit – and pequeño is small while pequeñito is how you´d say ‘tiny’.
ADJECTIVES - Most describing words that end in ‘ing’ in English, will end in -ante in Spanish: interes/ ante, fascin/ante, excit/ante (or emocion/ante) and irrit/ante (irritating).
Beware false friends!
Whereas English words ending in -IC usually go to -ICO in Spanish: Plastic – plástico; traffic – tráfico; medic (doctor) médico/a; logic – lógico; allergic – alérgico/a
Learn in threes: Often if you learn one noun you´ll get related words thrown in. For example la cocina is the kitchen, and what is it for, but cocin/ar (to cook), where the profession is cocin/ero (or cocinera for a woman). Likewise la cena is dinner, so cenar is to dine. La com/ida means the meal, com/er is to eat, and el com/ edor is the dining (literally eating) room. El trabajo is the job, trabajar is to work, and trabajador (or trabajadora for a female) means hard-working. GOING UP: Spanish often add -ón to make something bigger. So while una taza means a cup or mug, un tazón means bowl (literally, a big cup). Similarly as una silla is a chair, so un sillón is one word for armchair.
These are words that sound like the English but mean something different. For example sensible [senSEE-bleh] means sensitive, not sensible (sensato in Spanish), while educado/a means well-mannered as opposed to well-educated. And while you might assume that pretender means to pretend, its meaning is in fact similar to desear (to want) - the right word being fingir - [fin-HEER]. Parientes are not parents, but relatives, (parents would be los padres, as the masculine is always used for collective nouns) and una librería is not a library but a bookshop (library is biblioteca). Finally, you can avoid embarrassing slips by remembering that preservatives are preservantes and not preservativos (condoms!) while the word pis in Spanish means pee or wee so is not as coarse as it sounds. (If you must know, to piss is mear – meh-AH). Learn online Talk to yourself! Visit www.how-to-speak.com/ sft2.html to try four free lessons with the option of downloading or ordering 31 subsequent 30-minute audio lessons (around 25-50 euros). Let me know how you get on should you try this site.
GOING DOWN: By adding –ito/ita, we make Participate – participar; separate – separar; graduate something smaller: Mesa is of course table, so mesita – graduar; decorate – decorar. As seen before, is a little one, like a bedside table. Cuchara is spoon so many others are similar to ‘high’ English: quiero cucharita is a teaspoon (lit: a little spoon). In this way If you have any questions or comments relating to this column or the Spanish language in general: Please email theresacoe@gmail.com
POLITICALLY CORRECT!!
While walking down the street one day a ‘Member of Parliament’ is tragically hit by a truck and dies. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.
‘Welcome to heaven,’ says St. Peter. ‘Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we’re not sure what to do with you.’ ‘No problem, just let me in,’ says the man. ‘Well, I’d like to, but I have orders from higher up. What we’ll do is have you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity.’ ‘Really, I’ve made up my mind. I want to be in heaven,’ says the MP.
‘I’m sorry, but we have our rules.’
And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell. The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course. In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him. Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people. They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and champagne. Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly & nice guy who has a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that before he realizes it, it is time to go. Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises... The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him. ‘Now it’s time to visit heaven.’
So, 24 hours pass with the MP joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns. ‘Well, then, you’ve spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your eternity.’ The MP reflects for a minute, then he answers: ‘Well, I would never have said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in hell.’ So St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell. Now the doors of the elevator open and he’s in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags as more trash falls from above. The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulder. ‘I don’t understand,’ stammers the MP. ‘Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there’s just a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable. What happened?’ The devil looks at him, smiles and says, ‘Yesterday we were campaigning.. .. Today you voted.’
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Your Questions Answered 15
Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
‘The Canarian Lawyer’ Thousand Euros a month for pensioners I am a widow and receive a pension of 530€ a month. I have many costs, including the maintenance of the flat of my property. The bank told me that I can receive extra money of 1,000€ by asking for a reverse mortgage. Could you advise me? There are some banks which provide an ‘account of credit with mortgages’ in that customer puts his house as warranty and the bank gives a sum of money which may consist of a single payment or an annuity income each month, which is calculated taking in consideration age, the value of property and the form of payment. One of its advantages is that the applicant owner is guaranteed to continue as holder of the flat and can continue to live here while receiving this income or if you need it, rent it out for extra income. On the death of the holder, the heirs have the opportunity to decide between keeping
the property, paying the debt or taking a new mortgage, or selling the house, staying with the remaining money to pay the debt. This Agreement may be in one or two persons name and will stay the same amount while either one of them is alive. In case that the client is receiving a pension, with the reverse mortgage he will receive in addition this new rental, since it has nothing to do with the pension of widowhood, retirement or invalidity. In addition, if you ever want to sell the flat, you may settle the amount of the reverse mortgage debt with the result of the sale. As regards expenditure, those linked to the notary, registry, paperwork, the person who will value the flat, commission of opening mortgage and Annuity Insurance Commission, will not represent expenditure for the client, since some entities fund everything. Others charge only pricing. The best advice is to go to the bank accompanied by a lawyer or a family
member with legal knowledge to ensure that everything is done properly. Pay part of the menu Is it possible to pay only the part of the menu which you have consumed in the restaurant? No. We must pay the price for the full menu. If the consumer renounced any component in the menu, it may not be discounted from the price to be paid entirely. To free mobile phone Can I use my mobile with any telephone company? Yes. If it is not already freed, you can request liberation in your phone company. They cannot refuse, except if you have signed a contract with them or because it was an offer of the company. Unemployment rent finished and rescue of the pension plan I have no longer unemployment rent and somebody told me that I can take out the money which I have saved in a pension plan. What do you recommend me?
The general recommendation is, unless you are very negative position economically, do not cash in the pension plan because you are going to remove a good part of the profits if you have obtained some. Certainly the unemployed may cash in its pension scheme when they do not get any more unemployment rent, and without the need to have a period of time without work. So, an unemployed person who no longer receives unemployment benefit, may rescue the savings immediately. It is also possible that not only the participant in the pension plan can retrieve the money invested in it, if they become unemployed, but also if a spouse or any of their ancestors or descendants in first grade (parents or children) goes into unemployment.
Web and Computer problems? info@thecanarynews.com
Q. Should I Protect my Wireless Network? A. In a word YES! At the very least, there are several things that you should do and here’s why. In the router there is a setup that allows modifying its settings. This setup is accessed by entering the router’s IP address and password. Routers come with a generic IP address and either a default password or no password at all. The router’s IP address and password can be found in the user’s manual, but unfortunately they are also available from the Internet. The router also comes with a default SSID, Service Set IDentifier that is by default, set to broadcast the router manufacturer’s name. With the router manufacturer’s name, anyone can obtain its default IP address and password with a simple Internet search. Then with this information and a laptop they can sit outside your house and access your router’s setup and play havoc with it and your network. For example, they could change the SSID to anything they want, causing you to broadcast a name composed of profanity that may be totally undesirable to you. They could install an access password or change its IP address that would prevent you from changing any of the router’s settings. They could also set a wireless security password that would prevent you from using your own router to access the Internet from any of your wireless computers. And, they can do all of this without your knowledge and without being in your house.
Here’s are four steps you can take to protect your wireless network and prevent this from happening. All of these should be done to your wireless network before any wireless computer is connected. First and foremost, read the manual. I cannot stress this too much although very few ever do. It is very difficult to resist the urge to just plug it in and start using it. Second following instructions in the manual, you should change the router’s access password. This is probably the easiest setting there is to change, and the most important. Once this has been done, no one without the password can change its settings. You could also change the routers default IP address but I strongly recommend against doing this unless you are very sure you know what you are doing. The third thing you should do is change the SSID to one that suits your situation so that your wireless computers can find the router when you set them up. You can, of course, choose to not broadcast the SSID at all, but then connecting wireless computers that you want on your network becomes more difficult. It is usually recommended that your SSID be broadcast and this in itself, poses no security danger. The fourth thing that is recommended is that you set up wireless security in the form of wireless encryption. There are usually three types of encryption supported, those being 64 bit WEP the weakest, 128 bit WEP middle strength and 256 bit WPA-PSK, the strongest currently used for home networks. WEP stands for Wired Equivalent Protection and WPA-PSK for WiFi Protected Access-Pre-Shared Key. For most home networks, keeping out all but the most
sophisticated hackers, the 64 or 128 bit WEP is probably adequate. 64 bit requires a 10 digit hex number and the 128 bit WEP requires a 26 digit hex number for the password. The hex number can be any combination of numbers from 0 to 9, and/or letters from A to F. Many ISPs will use the persons 10 digit telephone number as their password if they set up your system for you. For obvious reasons, this is not a good idea. Don’t use family names or important dates like birthdays or anniversaries as they are too easy to detect. Be sure that you remember the type of encryption and the password you have chosen as you will need it when you connect any wireless computer to your network for the first time. After that, the wireless computer will remember it, and connect automatically. If you want anyone to be able to access your wireless network, you can skip the forth step. You still have total control of the router, but anyone can access the Internet using your network. If you want to control limited access, but not totally prohibit it, you can use a simple password and give it to those who you want to have it. If it becomes abused, you can easily change it. Note here that if have failed to set up a password to access the router’s setup as previously described, that setting wireless access encryption is practically useless. If anyone can access the router’s setup they can easily find the wireless security password or change it. Only computers connecting wireless are affected by this encryption. Any computer connected via an Ethernet cable to your router doesn’t need the password. Of course, any computer connected with a wire is difficult to hide form you so no unwanted access is probable.
16 Local News
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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World Body Painting Competition
Twelve of the best body painting artists in the world gathered in the Lopesan Baobad Resort, for the exclusive “World Art Connects 2010” which was held on 30th April and 1st May. Not much is known about body painting and to a certain extent the work of these particular artists is not all that appreciated, and after the many hours of dedication their work is simply washed off. The participants of this year’s competition came from England, Austria, Germany, Holland, Switzerland, Belgium, Denmark, Italy and Spain (one from Madrid and two Canarian Teams). These were exhibited around the hotel pool area where visitors and guests could see for themselves life how these artists painted their models during the two day competition. The first day
had a theme of “Treasures of the World”, and between 10.30 and 16.00 each of the artists were provided with a work area and in which, together with their models, they spent the day creating their theme. I was particularly impressed by the great amount of work which goes into these creations, and in some cases up to 4 people were working simultaneously on a particular model!
before each artist starts creating on paper an outline of their ideas which will finally convert into the finished product. In addition they have to study the bodies of their models in order to accommodate all the details and figures which go into their creation. So we could say that the competition is the final stage of months of preparation, imagination and sheer hard work. On the second day the artists had to create an African themed piece, hence the reason why the organisers chose the Baobad Hotel, as this too is themed on our neighbouring continent. Once each session was over the models were taken to a specially prepared area where professional photographers could take shots of each creation.
And of course the patience the models need to have just standing still in the scorching heat, whilst the artist paints around their bodies. However this is not when the work starts, as months
Finally at 21.00 the models paraded on stage and took part in a musical and choreographed number for the entertainment of guests and visitors so that they could view the work of these artists. Several workshops with different
activities were also held and anyone could attend and take part, learning a little more about this artistic arm. By Tito Cabral
Local News 17
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
Feria de Abril In Maspalomas This time the community who organised it chose the area in front of Parque Sur, Maspalomas, thus enabling them to create different zones for the celebration. The middle arena was for the many equestrian shows and exhibitions which took place, and in the centre was a large stage where the musical and dancing shows took place. Lining the sides were many bars or “Chiringuitos” set up to feed and provide drinks to all visitors.A small market was also set up, with many artisans selling their products and small sweet and balloons stands to the delight of the younger ones of the family. And lastly a large area dedicated to fair ground attractions and activities for the children. Between 28th April and 2nd of May, the Andalucian Comunity of San Bartolome de Tirajana Municipal organized for the ninth consecutive year their own particular Feria de Abril.
But the main reason for this fiesta is the Andalucian traditions, and automatically the flamenco comes to mind, as obviously it plays a massive part in this celebration.
This basically consists of a celebration of their traditions, the flamenco, their music, their food and their horses; tradition and art mix together to give visitors an insight to this very special Spanish region.
The concerts, dancing exhibitions and workshops for the general public, or just the music system took place at all times, giving the whole set up a real ‘fiesta’ feel.
From 1846 this fiesta has been celebrated in Sevilla, is an event which brings the whole city together in one massive celebration. Flamenco dancing, horse and carriage parades, bullfighting (although I personally would leave this out!), music and a lot of food and drink simply take over, in an area specially designed for this purpose.
We also got the chance to see some “Bailadores”, dancers who use their boots and palms to create a rhythm, whilst a group of musicians play their guitars and sing in the background. These dancers then gave workshops and everyone was welcomed and could take part in order to start getting a feel of this very sentimental dance which at the same time transmits so much to the
viewers. All participants of the parades were required to dress for the occasion; the ladies and girls wearing their colourful flamenco dresses with their “Peinetas” and flowers in their hair and the men wearing the typical Andalucian clothes, resembling the rural side. All in all giving the whole Feria a more authentic feel, which if we add the paper lanterns hanging from the poles we could for an instant feel that we were travelling through the authentic Sevillian Fair. However these are just elements to dress up the party, and when it comes
to a Spanish celebration it is all about food and drink, and like everyone else , Andalucia has its’ particular specialities. “El Pescaito Frito” is one of these, pieces of marinated fish which are then covered in batter and fried, any fish will do especially white fish which absorbs the flavours of the marinade better. This together with a glass of sherry, the Feria drink par excellence should be tried by everyone at least once. If you did not make it this year make a note in your diaries for next year as although it is not a Canarian fiesta it is special and it takes place here, giving all of us the chance to experience something different on our doorstep.
18 Twitters from the Atlantic with Barrie Mahoney
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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Barrie Mahoney was a teacher, head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands as a newspaper editor. He is still enjoying life in the sun as a writer and author.
Airport Security
One of the many additional hassles of returning to the UK, even for a fleeting visit, are the security checks. Yes, I know that these checks are essential to thwart the potential terrorist who intends to attack a plane armed with little more than nail scissors and baby teething gel. However, I do wonder why it is me that is nearly always frisked. I can see the security officers ‘eyeing me up’ as I enter the ‘control zone’ and I have yet to discover whether it is because I look shifty or whether they just find me irresistible in some way and cannot wait to get their hands on me! Anyway, whatever the reason, I do find it mildly annoying, although often entertaining, and I just hope that they warm their hands first and get it over with as quickly as possible.
This time I approached the Gatwick security zone with supreme confidence. Yes, I had remembered to remove my watch, removed loose change and keys from my pocket, removed my belt (is this really necessary?!) and checked for surprise eye piercings, nose studs or anything else that I might have overlooked and that just might set off their sensitive security system.
an urge similar to that experienced by many - that of pulling the communication chord on the Orient Express or maybe the 16.45 from King’s Cross. I smiled benignly and said nothing. “Well, we’ll just give you a quick once over, sir,” he grinned, prodding me with a large instrument and waving it around my body like a magic wand. The alarm bleeped again. The security officer looked puzzled. He then discovered my mobile phone in a side pocket, which I duly removed both humbly and apologetically. “Never mind, sir. It happens,” he said pleasantly, waving his magic wand around me once more. “I see you have an iPhone, they are great gadgets, aren’t they?” The alarm bleeped once again.
It was all to no avail because as I walked through the magic electronic archway a piecing alarm sounded and I was duly stopped in my tracks, firmly yet politely, by a burly, but not unattractive, security officer.
“Now then, sir. You having games with me? Keys? Cash, any hidden piercings that I should know about?” I didn’t like the way that he said “hidden”, with a smirk, and I shook my head wincing at the very thought of a Prince Albert, although I did wonder how one would get through security if one actually did have this rather painful addition to the natural order. The security officer once again waved his weapon around my body furiously, but sadly I still bleeped. This was it; I was about to be strip-searched.
“Now what are you hiding in there?” he began pleasantly, whilst I resisted the temptation to refer to a Kalashnikov hidden in my Marks and Spencer’s undies. Yes, I know that such comments are unnecessary and potentially dangerous, but nevertheless I suddenly had
“Hmm,” he looked puzzled. “Maybe it is your trousers.” He rubbed his hands up and down my trousers once again. “Yes, I can see a couple of small studs on the pockets, maybe that is the problem.” He prodded me firmly rather like a farmer does to a
bullock before sending the poor creature off to the butcher. “Yes, I am sure that is it. I think I can let you go.” I heaved a sigh of relief and thanked the security officer profusely after, not for the first time, imagining that I would be taken off to some nearby room and inspected closely with the aid of rubber gloves. I shuddered at the thought although no doubt it depends upon exactly who is officiating. “Next time, I’ll have all your clothes off,” he grinned. Once again I was speechless, but made up my mind that the next time I was in Gatwick Airport I would ensure that I was wearing a new pair of Calvin Kleins and not Marks and Spencer’s thermals! © Barrie Mahoney
If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander.com or read his latest novel, ‘Journeys and Jigsaws’ (ISBN: 9781843865384). © Barrie Mahoney
Pride ‘Sparkles’ This year Sparkles are the corporate sponsors of Gay Pride and all of their customers have raised well over 5,000€ in sponsorship money. They have different theme nights for each day with their amazing staff dressing up throughout the week to add to the atmosphere. Sparkles will be presenting the winners of the Drag Queen competition on the Friday evening as well as doing some of their own acts such as; Andi Martine doing a fabulous Susan Boyle sketch, Dinah Might as Beyonce with some suprise backing dancers and Chanelle Fontaine and Michael Morouli with their great live tribute to Lady GaGa.
Saturday evening sees the dance troup ‘Sensations’ followed by singer extraordinaire ‘Eva La Diva’, both of whom will have already performed earlier in the week. Sunday evening in Sparkles is a fund raising night to kick start the collection for Gay Pride 2011, which next year will take place over ten days. They will be auctioning off some of their frocks and have a full entertainment programme with the likes of Maisie Trollette, Eva La Diva and some surprise guests. And let’s not forget one of the main events of the Pride calendar – the Saturday street parade, where Sparkles
will really come into their own, with a float dedicated to Lady GaGa. And finally, Sparkles will be celebrating their 2nd birthday in June, and once again the fabulously popular and talented Toyah Willcox will be celebrating in style with them on Friday 6th June. Readers may recall that last year Toyah joined the street parade on the float and then gave an outstanding performance at Sparkles. So it promises to be fun and laughter, good humoured banter, and something for everyone. Let’s make this years’ Gay Pride’ one to remember for many years to come, and thanks go to Tony, Andi and Steve from Sparkles for their tremendous hard work and effort they have put in to ensure we all have a good time, but more importantly to keep the tourists coming back to Gran Canaria for what is one of the most attended and popular events on the island.
Cookery 19
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
Saffron – The Most Expensive Spice Coming from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus, it takes 75,000 blossoms or 225,000 hand-picked stigmas to make a single pound which explains why it is the world’s most expensive spice.
According to Greek myth, handsome mortal Crocos fell in love with the beautiful nymph Smilax. But his favours were rebuffed by Smilax, and he was turned into a beautiful purple crocus flower. A native of the Mediterranean, saffron is now imported primarily from Spain, where Moslems had introduced it in the 8th century along with rice and sugar. Valencia coup (coupé meaning “to cut” off the yellow parts from the stigmas) saffron is generally considered the best, though Kashmir now rivals this
reputation. Saffron is also cultivated in India, Turkey, China and Iran. The name is from the Arabic word zafaran which means ‘yellow’. The French culinary term safrané means ‘coloured using saffron’. Its colouring properties have been as prized as its unique flavour. The Romans initially brought saffron to England, though it was lost to them in the Dark Ages. It is claimed that in the 14th century a pilgrim to the Holy Land,
smuggled back one crocus bulb in a hollow staff from which all English saffron supposedly descends. It is grown in great quantities in Essex, especially in a town called Saffron Walden, whose coat of arms includes three saffron crocuses. Francis Bacon wrote “it maketh the English sprightly”. Spice Description
Saffron is the three stigmas of the saffron crocus. They are delicate and thread-like, each measuring 2.5 - 4 cm (1 -1.5 in). Its colour is a bright orange-red, and in high quality saffron this is uniform. Saffron bearing white streaks or light patches is inferior and when light specks appear in its powdered form it suggests adulteration. Bouquet: Strongly perfumed, with an aroma of honey Flavour: A pungent bitter-honey taste The best saffron is gathered at the end of the yearly harvest, and the best way to purchase it is while it is still attached to the flower. The harvesting process of saffron requires a person to manually reach into the flower and remove its three red stigmas. Once this has been accomplished, the stigmas are carefully toasted, producing what we commonly call “saffron.” Due to the tedious process of preparing saffron, it is easy to understand why it is such a high price.
The harvesting of saffron is a tradition going back centuries, harvested by entire families that live in and around the region of production. The flower only opens during a period of 20 to 25 days each year for about 2 hours a day, usually a few hours before sunrise. The opening of the flowers is affected by the microclimate of each region where saffron is grown. Once it has been verified that the stigmas are fully developed, the flowers are cut. Cutting of the flower has to be done as soon as full development has been determined, regardless of climatic activity, which sometimes creates ardous and difficult working conditions. After the flowers have been cut and
Mussels ‘A La Gallega’ Ingredients:
Method:
Mussels Olive oil for frying Small Onion, chopped parsley and 2 cloves of garlic 2 x glasses White wine “Ribeiro” Flour Pinch of Saffron
Thoroughly wash and steam the mussels. They must be very well cleaned and separated from their shells. In a frying pan lightly fry the chopped onion until golden and soft. Pound the garlic, parsley and mix with the white wine; if it is possible Ribeiro (Galician wine). Put all this mixture into the frying pan with the onion, and mix it well, adding two spoons of flour and a little saffron. You should have a sauce like consistency. Puree the mixture and add the mussels to it. Then boil everything for just one minute. Remove the mussels with a wooden spoon and serve hot on a platter. You can use the sauce for dipping with bread if you want.
collected, they are taken to the homes of those whom have the expertise in removing and toasting the stigmas in order for the world to enjoy the gift of nature named saffron. Saffron is produced in a variety of different parts of the world, such as Turkey, Greece, Egypt and Iran but the finest Saffron is produced in Spain. Specific regions in Spain include: Ciudad Real, Albacete, Toledo, Cuenca, Teruel and Murcia.
20 Fashion
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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Swimwear 2010 – Big, Bold and Beautiful! vertical stripes will also ‘slim’ your top half. Try and avoid shoestring straps and go for the wider kind; a lot more comfortable which will also hold your breasts in place. Large hips? Then draw the eyes away to your upper body. So in this case, do the opposite and go for bold bright prints on the top, and dark one-tone colours for the bottom. Small breasts, not a problem, the shops are full of tops, bras and bikinis which all contain shaped in fills, (my friend Jackie laughingly calls hers ‘chicken fillets’) The media still tries to dictate what is classed as a ‘beautiful female body. Sculptured, well toned shapes are still thrust at us from every angle, although society is starting to ‘sit up and take notice’ of the miss/ms average who is far from perfect (hence the adverts by ‘Dove’). In the midst of leans bellies, shapely legs and no breasts, we can see a new trend emerging which recognises that women don’t have perfect bodies. With legs and hips more pronounced and a normal sized waist, the ‘real’ woman is gradually becoming accepted as the ‘norm’ instead of the ‘stick insects’ we see in all the glossies. Many women find it very difficult to shop for clothes; especially underwear and swimwear, as they cannot accept their true size. If you fit into this category, let me give you a tip, value yourself and don’t be put off by waif-like shop assistants who look down their nose at you. Real women are gradually taking their rightful places on television and in fashion shows, so make the most of your curves and stand proudly; have confidence in what nature has blessed you with. The weather here tends to mean that for most of the year we can spend time on the beach or around the pool, so don’t hide behind that tired old kaftan, take a look at some of this seasons ‘must haves’and get out there and flaunt yourself; nothing is more attractive than a confident sexy woman, no matter what her size. The popular V-waisted shape, which is great for trousers, skirts and dresses,works equally well in swimwear. The style lengthens the body and also slims it down. So if you are more generous on top then try this style, but keep away from large prints, opt for one colour; or
Contrary to the popular belief, the swimsuit is not just for the more generous woman. The catwalk featured all manner of shapes and sizes, and the big thing for this year is the ‘cutout’ swimsuit or monokini. Swimwear Fashion Trends 2010 Swimwear Fashion Trends 2010 have not changed from 2009, which is great news for our pocket, and we saw repeated trends from previous years. The hottest looks come in a myriad of bright gemlike colours such as blue, which is the key colour for the spring-summer seasons. Blue will be a constant in different aspects of spring/ summer apparel, and definitely in the form of many swimsuits. Other key trends are nautical stripes, floral prints, and colours like white and black which dominated the catwalk for swimwear. The Cut Away/Monokinis Swimsuit is the main trend of Summer 2010 as it was in 2009, and looks great on women who have a ‘mummy tummy’ as it slims down considerably. Back detailing became a new trend for 2010 swimwear, and all styles are feminine with details like ruching, ruffles, fringe, and gold and silver hardware. Sexy one piece and cut away halter style tops were everywhere, together with the bandeau bikini tops. Swimwear with V plunge neckline down to the waist came out on top – so wear it if you dare! Graphic print one-piece swimsuits were on show at the Luli Fama fashion show and hot news this season was the trend of the one shoulder swimsuit – a copy of the dress and tops fashion last season. This trend of swimwear gives a shoulder baring alterative to the usual bikini top.
Fashion designers demonstrated bandeau bikini tops in a range of styles from those that are stretchy bands to bandeau tops with underwires and offer you support. Most bandeau swimsuits are good for cup sizes A through C, even though D cup size women can pull it off, if the bandeau bikini supplies great support. Cover-ups were in evidence and are made for the woman who has a romantic nature and is very universal. So has the three piece ‘triangle’ seen its’ day? Not really, it’s still there for the very young, very fit or ‘the devil may care’ woman.
Original & Exclusive!
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Health and Beauty 21
Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
‘Beach Babe’
Don’t forget to have a shower before you head for the beach... body odour on a hot summer day is a real turnoff. Don’t forget to maintain a weekly exercise regimen and a healthy eating plan to make sure you look great in your bikini!
When it’s summer, you want to feel and look gorgeous for your long days at the beach. Start early to ready yourself for the beach! 1. Go shopping for a pretty swimsuit that suits your shape. (see previous page). For a big bust, opt for a bikini top with cups or inner support. For a tummy, try a tankini. If you are worried about your hips/bum, boy leg shorts always look hot. For a small bust, find a top with ruffles or a bow to emphasize. Pastel colours suit paler skins, whereas bright colours look great on tanned or dark skin.
Exfoliants can fade or even streak your tan, so be careful. Exfoliating and rinsing with ocean water can in turn make the skin more susceptible to dryness and the bacteria and micro-organisms that populate both the sand and ocean water. Be sure to use lotion and antibacterial soap on your feet and the rest of your body once you get home. Want to look all-around stunning when you hit the sand? Then don’t forget your hair! Here, 10 easy ways to make it look its best this summer: Swear by leave-in conditioner. Slather it on every morning before going outside, to combat dryness. Protect hair from the sun. This is especially important
2. Make sure that you remove all unwanted body hair and give your body a full exfoliation. Try a body scrub in the shower. Moisturising afterwards leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth.
Sport a scarf. It has a decidedly Jackie O. feel and protects hair at the same time: Tie a long headscarf over hair, letting the ends dangle.
3. (Optional:) Apply a selftanner for a bronzed, beach babe look. This should be applied after you moisturize. Remember, pale skin can be beautiful too (just don’t forget your sunblock!).
Swear off blowdryers. While you’re at the beach, vow to air-dry your hair. Using a blowdryer after a day in the sun can make your hair doubly damaged. Don’t leave home without a wide-tooth comb. While saltwater is a good styling aid, it can leave hair knotted and clumpy. Spritz a bit of your UV protectant onto the comb’s teeth and run it through strands after every swim to prevent those knots.
4. Paint your nails and toenails a bright summer colour in a sunset tone like a bright yellow or orange hue. 5. Spritz a conditioning spray in your hair before leaving the house to protect it from the sun’s harmful rays. 6. Apply a clear sunscreen of at least 30 SPF all over your body and face and spray a fresh, summer fragrance for an irresistible scent. Some lovely summer perfumes include CK Summer One and Island by Michael Kors. Apply tinted moisturiser, waterproof mascara, soft pink blush and a lip balm with some SPF in it on your face. For the more daring, bright eyeshadows in aqua or orange can look amazing. For a natural beauty therapy whilst at the beach, you can give your body an exfoliation with sand and rinse with pure ocean water. For a more subtle tan, mix self-tanner with your moisturiser for a lighter radiance. Spray an anti-frizz treatment in your hair and then leave au natural. Low maintenance should be the main aim at the beach.
Apply styling paste to short hair. A gummy paste will give short cuts hold and definition, plus protect them from the sun and chlorine. Smooth onto dry hair before going outside.
if you colour your hair! Use a spray-on UV protectant over your leave-in conditioner to prevent the sun’s rays from turning your hair a brassy shade. Add an accessory. It’s simple but chic: A bright, beachy pony holder gives flair and style to even the simplest swimsuit. Use salt as a styling aid. Saltwater gives hair texture and allows it to better hold a style, especially key for lank locks. Take advantage by skipping the shampoo after the beach, then scrunching as you dry hair with a diffuser. Trim before summer. Summer tends to make hair dry, so this process will speed up on hair with alreadydead ends in need of a cut. Trimming before the summer minimizes damage by removing unhealthy ends before you hit the sun. Try braids. They’re too youthful for the office, but braided pigtails look fresh and energetic at the beach. Simply part hair down the middle, braid each side, and secure.
22 Health
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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Skincare is More Than Skin Deep By Ann Mather, Celebrity Nutrition Advisor , Famouslyfit.com Getting the skin of a super model goes much deeper than the cleansers, toners and moisturizers we use. What we put inside our bodies has an even greater effect. Start to include these foods in your daily diet, and watch your skin start to glow. If you want to find out more about nutrition, check out www.famouslyfit.com. Almonds
Brazil Nuts Brazil nuts are an excellent source of the mineral selenium. Selenium improves the skin’s elasticity and helps protect against skin infections and acne. Selenium is necessary for the production of glutathione, which neutralizes free radicals in the body that can lead to the deterioration of collagen and elastin in the skin. In addition to skin benefits, selenium improves the condition of hair and nails.
damage. Omega 3 is well known for nourishing the skin, helping to improve the skin’s elasticity, reduce dryness and dryness related problems such as eczema. Sunflower Seeds
Brazil nuts also contain zinc, which reduces skin inflammation, promotes skin cell growth, and helps against dry skin related problems such as eczema and psoriasis. Carrots
Almonds contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated ‘good’ fats and are said to help keep skin looking young by preventing the early appearance of wrinkles, black heads and dry skin as well. Almond oil is used in a number of nourishing skincare products and treatments. Avocado Avocados are also packed with ‘good’ monounsaturated fat and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which helps to keep skin plump and youthful, while preventing dry skin. Avocados contain vitamin C and vitamin E, which work well together as a powerful skin anti-ageing combination. They are also rich in B complex vitamins – vital for all cell formation, growth, reproduction and respiration. You can even make your own at home remedy for red, irritated skin, simply by mashing up an avocado and applying it to the irritated areas. Berries Blueberries, blackcurrants, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries are all great for the skin. Berries (especially blueberries) are loaded with antioxidants which are effective in neutralizing damaging free radicals that lead to skin cell damage and premature skin ageing. Blueberries and other berries are also an excellent source of vitamin C and E helping to keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.
Carrots are good for skin as they contain a high source of beta-carotene. Our body converts beta-carotene to vitamin A which helps with the development of skin cells and promotes healthy skin functions. Carrots are also a great source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that works to mop up free radicals that can lead to the premature ageing of skin. Dairy Products Some dairy products are good for the skin. Cottage cheese, for example, is another good source of selenium which is an essential mineral for healthy skin. Low fat yoghurts are full of vitamin A, which does wonders for the skin and can also help with thyroid problems and diabetes. Green Tea Green tea is loaded with a variety of anti-oxidants and is good for detoxing. Green team is particularly high in vitamins C, D and K, riboflavin, zinc, calcium, magnesium and iron. It therefore provides a wide range of benefits due to it’s anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Green tea fights off free radicals that cause early ageing. Pomegranate Juice Pomegranate juice packs a punch for skin with its combination of vitamin A and vitamin E which can help to prevent the formation of wrinkles. Many health expert are lauding pomegranate juice as one of the best things you can eat or drink in the battle against wrinkles. Pomegranate juice can not only help to prevent the formation of unwanted lines, but it can also help to make existing wrinkles smoother and less noticeable.
Sunflower seeds contain a lot of vitamin E, a skin nourisher and powerful antioxidant that helps slow down the ageing of skin. The seeds contain essential fatty acids that help keep the skin nourished and soft. They are also thought to reduce the appearance of blackheads and acne, and help soothe psoriasis and other skin problems such as atopic dermatitis. Sweet Potatoes Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E. Vitamin E helps the body regenerate vitamin C and therefore is necessary in order to maximize the effectiveness of vitamin C. Any foods that contain high quantities of vitamin C and vitamin E are very effective antioxidants that deliver great benefits for skin. Turkey Turkey is another food that is high in the mineral zinc which helps with skin inflammation problems, promotes skin cell growth and maintenance of collagen and elastin, and fights against dry skin related problems such as eczema and psoriasis. Water
Salmon
This one is really the most important and should be at the top of the list! Good hydration is skin’s best friend. Aim to drink a minimum of 1.5 litres of pure, natural water (nothing added!) a day. Remember, you lose half a litre per day doing absolutely nothing! Salmon and other oily fish (sardines, mackerel, fresh tuna) contain essential fatty acids – food for healthy looking skin. Salmon contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids which our body cannot manufacture on its own. These fatty acids improve the skin by decreasing the occurrence of clogged pores and reducing the body’s production of inflammatory agents that can lead to skin
Whole Grains Whole grains are a good food for skin because they are loaded with B group vitamins. B group vitamins are essential to ensure the healthy function of skin, including the growth of new cells, and strengthening skin against infections and stress. Specifically, whole grains help to prevent the peeling and cracking of skin, rough skin on the hands and feet, and conditions such as mouth ulcers.
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
23
Get Toned and Ready for Summer with the Female Face of Famously Fit
Compulsive Behaviours
Amy Guy
can wreck your fitness progress!
(aka Gladiator Siren)
David Godfrey, NLP Master Practitioner
TRAINING WITH KETTLEBELLS DOUBLE DEAD LIFT This is a nice easy one to start with, but very effective. The dead lift is one of the best leg exercises you can do - working the quads, glutes, hamstrings and your abs as well. STEP 1: Stand with feet slightly apart. Place kettlebell on the outside of each foot STEP 2: Push your bottom back. Squat down with head up and forward. Keep weight back on heels STEP 3: Grasp a kettlebell firmly in each hand. Stand up in a controlled movement WEIGHTS: Choose weights to make the exercise challenging, but not painful for your muscles! REPETITIONS: 5 sets of 5 repetitions
DID YOU KNOW ?
IT´S NOT POSSIBLE TO TICKLE YOURSELF
THE EYE OF THE HUMAN CAN DISTINGUISH 500 SHADES OF GRAY
TV GLADIATOR WARRIOR
It doesn’t matter how dedicated and hard working you are in the gym. If you have to battle against involuntary cravings for food that you know you shouldn’t be eating, you’ll never get the progress that you deserve. Automatic responses like these run in a predictable pattern where each step in the process triggers the next step until the process is resolved. The typical response is something like this: Step 1 Trigger: Something triggers the whole process off. This could be any number of events; an argument, being really busy, not being busy enough, travelling etc. Step 2 Feeling: In response to the trigger you notice a particular feeling, perhaps boredom, stress, anxiety, a sense of frustration or confusion. Sometimes the feeling can even be a positive one such as happiness or excitement. Step 3 Craving: In response to the feeling you notice the desire to eat something Step 4: You either eat something and progress to step 5, or you try to use your will power (which is infinitely less powerful than your imagination) to resist the temptation until you either cave in, or become distracted by something else. Step 5: You either feel differently and the process ends there, or you don’t feel differently and you continue going round in a loop until you feel so guilty or sick that these feelings override the others and then you stop.
Log onto my feature on Famouslyfit. com to find out how you can change instantly from the inside.
GET FIT, LEAN AND TONED with ex Steps Star turned Celebrity Personal Trainer
Find his favourite fruits for a POWER SMOOTHIE Answers upside down at bottom of page D E E D A J
E M L Z E X
N R J E F S
D E Y O W E
M V R N C P
T L R Q V A
A S E I R R
L L B S Z G
W Y K V E L
A E C R L Y
O Y A F I P
J S L E M O
E E B D E K
B A N N A N
S F A N G E
L A W S L E R Z S
O A M N S T A C E
R I E P R O C C R
A N R E T D S R E
N T N K I J A M R
G Z Q M U S N E E
E B W A R T S L R
E H L A F W F A G
P P A E N I P R A
C S A V O E O S R
F S M M I G Y A R
N D N K S X N C I
C G P W S P E A R
A S I E A L E T M
Y A A X P T S I W
DID YOU KNOW ? THE AVERAGE SCALP HAS 100,000 HAIRS
OK! MAGAZINE FULL OF FAMOUSLY FIT PEOPLE!
Lee Latchford Evans Why Strength Training Is So Important Strength training should be a regular part of your daily activity routine. Too many people ignore this and just go for cardio - especially women who think they will bulk up. Well, ladies, it is a myth - you just ain´t got enough testosterone! Our muscles make the difference between quality of life, and not. Here are lots of reasons to include it in your daily routine:
• It changes your body more than cardio • It boost your metabolism • It burns more energy • It takes up less space than fat • It keeps us stronger for longer • It increases bone density and reduces osteoporosis • It reduces injury and falls by up to 30% • It improves co-ordination and reflex response • It lowers unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels improved co-ordination and reflex responses • It manages and reduces negative stress • It helps to prevents back pain • It reduces the effects of diabetes • It improves stamina and lessens fatigue • It lowers cancer risk You can strength train everywhere - do a little every day working opposing muscle groups. Higher weights and fewer reps is the key, and it is never too late to start. Even at 90, your muscles will respond. For lots of great ideas to strengthen your muscles, go to www.famouslyfit.com
ANSWERS TO WARRIOR’S WORDSEARCH: PASSIONFRUIT, BANNANA, GRAPES, STRAWBERRIES, BLACKBERRY, LEMON, ORANGE, LIME, MANGO, PINEAPPLE
24 Community
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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Don’t be late for breakfast. Kay Owen, Comfort Corner One of the most well known love poems of William Shakespeare, written in 1609, speaks of a love that is eternal, steadfast and unchanging. A love that time cannot undermine though the human body comes under time’s power to age it and change it. A love that is not adversely effected by anything or anyone. A love that is not shaken by tempests - one which may even help guide others who perhaps are ‘lost’ on the stormy sea of life. “Let me not to the marriage of true minds admit impediments”- so says the Sonnet’s first line. When pre-wedding bans are read and immediately before the service itself, the question is asked “... if anyone knows of any just impediment to this marriage, declare it now.” The Gospel words echoed by the priest at the end of the ceremony assert, “That which God has joined together let no man separate”. Here is a touchingly simple yet truly amazing modern day story which I believe encapsulates the very essence of all the above. Dance in the rain. It was a busy morning in my clinic when at about 8:30am an elderly gentleman-probably in his mid-80’s -arrived to have some stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.
He smiled as he patted my hand and said, ‘She doesn’t know who I am, but I still know who she is.’
I took his vital signs and asked him to take a seat, knowing it would be well over an hour before someone would be free to see to him. More than once I saw him looking anxiously at his watch and decided that since I was not yet attending to my next patient, I would evaluate his wound myself. On examination I saw that it was well healed, so I asked one of the nurses to bring the instruments required to remove his sutures. As I re-dressed the wound I asked if he had another doctor’s appointment to attend this morning, as he was in such a big hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go quickly to the
nursing home, as he did every day, to eat breakfast with his wife. I inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer’s Disease. As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a little late. He replied with tears in his eyes “She no longer even knows who I am - she has not recognized me in over five years now.” I was rather incredulous and ventured, ‘Yet you go punctually for breakfast every morning, even though she doesn’t know who you are?’
I had to hold back my own tears as he left and I had goose bumps along both of my arms. I thought: ‘That is the kind of love I want in my life. Neither physical nor romantic; but a true and lasting love which is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be. --------------------------------------------Sometimes we hear stories that have an important message for all of us, I believe this is one of them. Because the happiest people don’t necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have. They know, like this devoted old gentleman, that life isn’t about how to survive the storms but how to dance in the rain.’ As a writer of very much humbler reputation, nevertheless I feel I may make so bold as to join with the bard himself as he declares in the last lines of the sonnet:“If this be error and upon me proved, I never writ, and no man ever loved”. I pray that we each have the capacity to live this level of loving ; that we be enabled to share the very heart of this message with those for whom we care deeply ...whilst there is still time. Kay Owen, April 2010.
Golf 25
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Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
Masters Week Mark McGeehan, PGA Golf Professional, Lopesan Meloneras Golf The Junior Academy is now in full swing with lots of budding new stars attending the Saturday morning sessions held at the Meloneras Golf Academy. The course is taking young players and developing their swings in a structured format, with lots of interaction, games and fun! The course is held by Professionals, Mark McGeehan and Gavin Hutchison who have years of specialist qualified training in child development; the lessons are a must for any serious young golfers, or just kids wanting to have a go. The lessons are held every Saturday at 9.30 -10.30. We are also very proud to announce that we have the brand new 2010 Nike product range in stock, and have the complete custom fit cart now available to the golfer that wants to ensure that the equipment complements their technique. It is our ethos at the academy to ensure quality at every stage of golfers’ learning, and it is essential that the player has the correct clubs to match up to their swing. We also offer within our lesson packages the Digital V1 System, which is a visual tool for analysis and can break down the swing into the key positions. This makes for easy learning that is clear and fully understood. For a full swing assessment and custom fit, please contact Mark or Gavin on (0034) 928 145 309 For those of you reading this article who play golf, you will know how frustrating it can be to play well one day and not so well on another. How do we develop consistency? This is the most asked question in golf. The answer is hard work on the practice ground, working with a PGA Qualified Coach to provide you with precise feedback and guide you on a direct path of improvement. The ability to take the work from the practice ground to the course is a skill and having studied sports psychology, I believe one of the
secrets to hitting your best shots is to build a consistent pattern of behaviour, both mentally and physically. Golf is a science, but when playing we must not get our minds cluttered with too many technical thoughts, as these will become debilitating and lead to poor golf and bad results. You have to practice on the range to groove the swing technically. The moves must be correct or else your practice time can lead to negative practice. I believe that the reason a lot of golfers do not devote more time to the range is that they are unsure about what they are working on and are at a level of unconscious competence, but in order to get better we have to become aware of ourselves and our technique. If you have ever travelled to a watch a PGA Tournament you will see the players all working hard with their coach, and they are some of the most talented golfers in the world, but still require feedback to maintain their high level of play. If you are serious about lowering your handicap, then I would like to ask you a few questions. 1) How often do you practice? 2) When was the last time you had a plan of attack for your golf? 3) How much better do you think you could become if you did things differently? In order to change the results, you have to change your behaviour and this is why mental skills are just as important as the physical. To improve yourself and your golf, ring Mark or Gavin at the Meloneras Golf Academy to see how good you can become. Stop Press - Also some update competition news. On the 24th April the first Costa Canaria Club Pro-am was held at The Lopesan Meloneras Golf Course. The course was
in magnificent condition and the weather was perfect although the pin placements were very tricky to test the golfers skills! The tournament arranged by Jesus Cabrera Montesdeola and assisted by Francisco Jose Moreno Santana, said “it was a success and we hope to grow the concept into something big” Pro - am golf is as fun competetive way that consists of the best two scores from the team and the individual medal score from the Professional. It is a great opportunity for amateur golfers to spend
a day in the company of professional golfers and watch and learn from them whilst receiving key tips around the course. The team prize was awarded to the winners on -16 Dulores Quintana Trujillo, Miguel Sarmiento and Peter Winarsky with the Team Professional Juan Carlos Rodriguez shooting a sizzling round of 65 -6 In second place was Jose Manuel with a round of 67 -4 and Mark McGeehan 69 -2.
26 Sport
The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
Who wants to compete for a millionaire? Imagine going through your post to discover a letter from a wealthy stranger offering you thousands of pounds, for no return, to help your career. No catches, he writes. Just be a good role model and don’t take anything illegal. Let him know what you want and, if he thinks it’s a reasonable demand, it’s yours. You would need time to digest this, and you would certainly have questions. Who is he? Why choose me? What does he want back from me? Those were the questions 15 top British athletes posed themselves when insurance entrepreneur Barrie Wells got in touch. One said it felt like “a fairytale-type scam” as her eyes glanced down the letter. But now, her doubts brushed aside, she is “his” athlete, topping up her standard funding with up to £8,000 from his wallet each year. Who has Wells chosen, why did he choose them, and how has one man become an Olympic cash machine for our stars? This is an odd arrangement. UK Sport, the government agency which distributes sports funding, is unaware of anyone else privately backing athletes to anything like the same extent. Wells, who made his money in commercial insurance, expects to commit some £2m in total, funding both elite athletes and a charitable foundation. UK Sport has a Team 2012 initiative encouraging individuals to donate in this way, but it has barely launched - and Wells turned down the chance to join it. Instead, he wants to go it alone and says his motivation is “being part of the journey”. “I was wondering what to do with my cash,” he says. “Then, when I was in Beijing for the Olympics, it struck me: why don’t I do something for sport, which is what I really enjoy? “I’m a football fanatic - I’m a Liverpool supporter, I go to every home game and all the away European games but football has enough money in it. I was interested in Olympic sports, the top one being track and field, then swimming, and also cycling.” Wells came back from China and approached the relevant British governing bodies. As you can imagine, they didn’t lose much time getting back to him. “British Swimming rang me up, flew to meet me, and said ‘we want our share’. They were committed from the start, so a third of my 15 athletes are swimmers,” he says. “Cycling, on the other hand, didn’t need the money because it was that well-run.” Wells picked a few more sports, based on no more complex a rationale than “the ones I’d be prepared to
travel anywhere in the world to watch”, and assembled his squad of 15. Top of his list is Jess Ennis, the world champion heptathlete. Wells has apparently fought off the attentions of Usain Bolt to woo the 23-year-old and install her as patron of his new foundation. She is joined by top swimmers like Liam Tancock, a number of runners, two modern pentathletes and several triathletes. Wells is funding one of British Triathlon’s performance programmes in its entirety, down to the house the athletes live in. Some might argue Ennis is not the best choice for this additional funding. While she says Wells paid for her physio to travel to the World Championships, she can expect to earn far more in terms of sponsorship than many colleagues. But other beneficiaries, like 19-yearold pentathlete Freyja Prentice, are already allocating every penny. Katarina Thompson, a 16-year-old heptathlete, is funded to the tune of £6,000 a year by Wells. As a fellow Liverpool fan, he took her to Anfield as a reward when she won world youth gold in Italy. One of the youngest to be selected, she sounds giddy as she says: “We’ve written down a list of what we need gym membership, accommodation, and travel, because my mum doesn’t drive so we have to go on public transport a lot. “He writes a cheque and says, ‘Here you go, pay for your gym membership, or this and that,’ and the money’s there for us to use. “I want to take him on the journey. He doesn’t want to hand over the money then ignore us - I want to make him as involved as he wants, and use all this money to get good results for him.”
modified car, which German Timo Glock will drive. Technical director Nick Wirth said the delay was “a bitter pill to swallow”. He added that Virgin hoped to improve reliability after “an extensive investigation” into their problems. The team’s poor reliability has meant that they have rarely been affected by their error on the fuel-tank size. But the single time a Virgin car has finished a race this season, Brazilian Lucas di Grassi had to slow down to several seconds off his ultimate pace in the closing laps to ensure he could finish. The fuel tank problem emerged after the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, and the team had hoped to use the three-week break between the last race in China and the Spanish event to produce two revised cars. But Virgin said in a statement that they had run out of time because many staff were stranded in China for up to five days because of the the international flight delays caused by the ash cloud spewing from the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in southern Iceland. Team boss John Booth said: “What should have been a useful three-week break in the calendar, and an opportunity to ensure we are fully prepared for the European season, turned into something of a race against time thanks to the fallout from the volcano. “It took up to five days after the Chinese Grand Prix before the entire team were back in England, so we had to rush headlong into preparations for Spain.
Floyd Mayweather may snub Pacquiao Fernando Torres to fight Martinez Floyd Mayweather has said he could be tempted to step up to light-middleweight to fight Sergio Martinez instead of taking on Manny Pacquiao. A proposed fight between Mayweather and Pacquiao scheduled for 13 March fell through, since when both fighters have added further wins to their records. And after beating Shane Mosley, Mayweather said fighting Martinez could now be an option. “I thought about it. Right now, I don’t know what I’m going to do,” he said. Martinez’s manager, Lou DiBella, told the BBC he doubted that a “super-fight” between American Mayweather and Filipino Pacquiao would occur, with the boxers unable to agree on the drug testing programme or financial split. DiBella argued that it made more sense for Mayweather to step up to light-middleweight and fight Martinez, who recently defeated Kelly Pavlik for the WBC and WBO titles. However, Mayweather, who is now unbeaten in 41 fights, said that a fight with Pacquiao could still occur if an agreement could be met on random drug testing. After the fight with Mosley, Mayweather said: “If Manny takes the [blood] test, we can make the fight happen.”
Virgin F1 Team Virgin have run out of time ahead of this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix to build two new cars with big enough fuel tanks to finish all races. Flight delays caused by the Icelandic volcano have delayed preparations and they will have only one
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Spain striker Fernando Torres may not be fit for the start of the World Cup, according to medical staff at his club side Liverpool. The 26-year-old is recovering from surgery to repair knee cartilage torn in the 4-1 win over Benfica on 8 April.
“Whether he will be fit for the first game or not is uncertain,” said Peter Brukner who is overseeing his recovery. “But, if he continues to progress the way he is, he should be fit to play at some stage during the World Cup.” Spain, current European champions and one of the pre-tournament favourites, play their first match in Group H is against Switzerland on 16 June. Games against Honduras on the 21 June and Chile on 25 June then follow. If they progress to the knock-out stages, Spain will play a second-round match against one of Brazil, Portugal, Ivory Coast or North Korea on the 28 or 29 June. Boss Vicente del Bosque also has injury concerns over midfielder Xavi who is playing through a calf tear that may see him ruled out of the World Cup. The 30-year-old is playing on in an attempt to help Barcelona hold off Real Madrid’s challenge and win a second successive Spanish league title. Bruker, who was appointed as Liverpool’s head of sports medicine and sports science in March, believes there is a balance to be struck between the demands of club and country for Torres. “He is certainly tremendously committed to his rehab, as are the staff here, and if anyone can recover from an injury, he can,” he said. “Hopefully we can get a compromise where he plays in the World Cup and he is fit and well for Liverpool next season.”
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Sport 27
Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News
Surf Canarias - Tortugitas Tour By Danny Alcock Surf Canaries First Surf Contest - Tortuguitas Tour: 24th April, La Cicer The waves are small, but so are we!
Saturday, 24th April saw the Tortugas Tour celebrated in La Cicer, Las Palmas. The competition, organised by the University Surf School, is an initiative to get children enjoying nopressure fun contests and honing their skills against other children of their ages and abilities. Surf Canaries Surf Team travelled from Arguineguin for their first ever contest; the atmosphere in the van was electric as the children relished the moment that they have been training for, for months, the chance to take part in a real surf contest! On arrival, the conditions were quite weak. The waves are small was the cry but so are we!! This was not going to dampen the atmosphere, and the small waves would give the younger kids the weight advantage and make the bigger kids think more tactically about their game-plan. Surf contests are different to other sports contests; we can arrange the date, place and tide but we can’t arrange the waves so the competition surfer must be prepared for anything: big, small, pretty or ugly! First of all was the morning briefing in the class room. After enjoying a video of local pro and University
Surf Team coach, Javier Medina, the organisers of the event set about explaining the rules for the contest. Once done, the kids were introduced to each other and headed down to the beach, re-joining the parents and other fans that had made the trip up to the capital. The heats went ahead and were divided into 2 categories; softboard and short board. This was to ensure that all levels of surfing were taken into account and that everyone had fair opponents. Judged by Daniel Alcock and Javi Medina, the kids went about demonstrating what they could do on the boards in front of the on-looking city, seething in the April heat. The effort put in was incredible and the kids really surfed hard, maximising the conditions available. Winners came evenly from the 2 competing teams as the contest came
down to the wire in the two respective finals. Finally, congratulations went to Josh Haggett (Surf Canaries) and to Alejandro (University Surf School) for 1st in soft board and short board respectively. The event went fantastically and was something that all the children will remember for their whole lives. The atmosphere was that of fun and sportsmanship and the children of the southwest of the island got to know their counterparts from the northeast of the island; perhaps one daym people that they will be travelling with and competing against over their entire surf careers We had to have winners, but in the spirit of this particular event, the results are forgotten straightaway. Tomorrow we will return to surf together and those results won’t count anymore, as it is time to think about the next contest. Many thanks to the organisers and well done to all the children for their efforts in and out of the water, this was the first of many!
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The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
To place a classified advert, simply fill in the coupon on page 31 and drop off at Property Abroad, Aladdins Cave, Fuze Bar or Cafe Florin. See ads for locations. Email: sales@thecanarynews.com or Tel: 928 774 818 PROPERTIES FOR SALE Private
Property of the Month Costa Blanca
Apartment near
Torrevieja
for Sale For enquiries contact propertyofthemonth @thecanarynews.com
PROPERTIES FOR SALE AGENTS San Agustín Duplex, 1 bed(s) 125.000 Euros 21267-AK ***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Montaña La Data Single-family house, 4 bed(s) 280.000 Euros 21601-LL ***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Puerto Rico, Center Duplex, 2 bed(s) 147.400 Euros 21650-LM ***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Playa del Inglés Apartment, 1 bed(s) 95.000 Euros 21683-MV
***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Puerto Rico, West Hill Duplex, 3 bed(s) Refurbished and with beautiful views to Puerto Rico beach 199.000 Euros 21686-LM ***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Arguineguín, Altos de Arguineguín Duplex, 3 bed(s) Two storey house with a large basement 178.000 Euros 21696-LM ***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Puerto Rico, Center Bungalow, 2 bed(s) Centrally located Bungalow in a well kept private complex 190.000 Euros 21697-LM ***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Arguineguín, Center Apartment, 1 bed(s) 188.000 Euros 21698-AK ***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Arguineguín, Loma Dos Single-family house, 3 bed(s) Semi-detached house with private parking 295.000 Euros 21699-LM ***CARDENAS REAL ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** Puerto Rico, West Hill Apartment, 1 bed(s) Excelent panoramic views 118.000 Euros 21705-LM ***CARDENAS REAL
ESTATE, SINCE 1980*** ***Call now 928 150 650 or visit www.cardenas-grancanaria. com*** —-----------------------------------Apartment at the street down to the beach! This apartment is renovated and furnished. It consists of: One bedroom, bathroom, livingroom, kitchen and large balcony. Very good location only a few footsteps to the beach. Price: 120.000 Euros Europa Real Estate 928 765 813 info@europa-immobilien.com PLAYA DEL INGLÉS, OUTSTANDING BUNGALOW WITH GARAGE AT THE BEACH PROMENADE. This unique dreamhouse with aprox. 100m2 living area and largeprivate garden consists of living-diningroom, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large terrace and solarium with spectacular view to the dunes of Maspalomas and ocean. The bungalow is equipped with all luxury. Heated community swimmingpool.PRICE: 588.000, Euros Europa Real Estate 928 765 813 info@europa-immobilien.com PLAYA DEL INGLÉS: Spacious, very bright and quiet one-bedroom apartment in top- condition situated in a well maintained complex with parkinglots, swimmingpools and teniscourt and all amenities close. Price: 110.000,- euro PLAYA DEL INGLÉS, TOPFLOOR APARTMENT WITH UNIQUE VIEWS. Breathtaking seaview to the dunes and lighthouse of Maspalomas. Bedroom and livingroom have access to the exeptional large dobble terrace with whole-day-sun. The beachpromenade is at one-minut-walking distance and several shopping centres are nearby. Sufficient parkingfacilities available. PRICE: 126.000 Euros PLAYA DEL INGLÉS, BUNGALOW WITH GARAGE Excellent and quiet located bungalow on a closed plot that offers perfect privacy. It exists of: 2 bedrooms, livingroom, full fitted kitchen, bathroom, 2 large terraces and private garage. This respected bungalow complex is very quiet and centrical situated and has a large pool and tenniscourt. Low monthly community costs.
PRICE: 276.000. Euros SAN AGUSTÍN, GROUND FLOOR BUNGALOW WITH LARGE TERRACE AND SEAVIEW. This bungalow forms part of a small private complex with pool. The beach of San Agustín is only 3 minutes walk away and also the shopping center is nearby. The bungalow consists of: 1 bedroom, livingroom/ kitchen, bathroom and a terrace of 24 m2 with sea view to the beach of Playa del Inglés. The monthly comunity costs are only 40 Euros. PRICE: 138.000 Euros EXCELLENT LARGE APARTMENT IN SAN FERNANDO
Properties Abroad Estate Agents
PUERTO RICO INSURANCE, MORTGAGE & FINANCIAL ADVICE Tel: (0034) 928 562 467 Fax: (0034) 928 562 454 Email: info@propertiesgrancanaria.com Web: www.propertiesgrancanaria.com
This bright and spacious apartment of 82 m2, is completely and tastfully furnished and contains a livingdiningroom, 3 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, full-fitted-kitchen with separate laundry room and small patio. The monthly community fee is only 17.- € Price: 175.000.- Euros VECINDARIO – CITYCENTER GREAT OPPORTUNITY Recently new built 2 bedroom apartments with garage to move into. Living-dining room and one bathroom. The independent kitchen is fullfitted and completely equipped. Construction with excellent materials. Precious building with elevator and only 6 units. Financiation Possible! Price only: 90.000,-- Euro PUERTO RICO Bungalow with panoramic seaview over the beach and harbor of Puerto Rico. 100 m² Living-area, 3 bedrooms and 2 large sunny terraces. Parking-lot and Pool. Price: 330.000 Euros PLAYA DEL CURA, EXCLUSIVE APARTMENT
WITH PANORAMIC SEAVIEW This apartment has 72 m² livingarea and a large very private terrace of 36 m² with whole-day-sun. Bedroom and bath are ensuite. Situation and the use of only the most luxurious materials make this real estate to an unique exquisity. Price: 290.000 Euros SAN FERNANDO, CORNER DUPLEX FAMILY HOUSE This very bright semi-detached house consists of: large livingroom, full-fitted kitchen with dining corner, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, several terraces with beautiful seaviews and a spacious independent (guest) studio. PRICE: 295.000,-- € SAN AGUSTÍN, DREAM BUNGALOW with beautiful view over the ocean. 64 m² Living-area, 2 bedrooms, full-fitted kitchen, bathroom and 32 m²-large sunny terrace. Parking-lot and Pool. Monthly communityfee only: 78,- Euro. PRICE: 290.000,-- € Europa Real Estate: 928 765 813 info@europa-immobilien.com ------------------------------------Puerto Rico Cosy apartment in a quiet complex with a very nice atmosphere. Parking outside the door and outstanding sea views. Pool, children’s pool, poolbar and sun terrace. The apartment is sold fully furnished and ready to move in! Ground floor and large garden area directly in front of the patio so great for sunbathing or for children! Great bargain! Ref. PR584. Price: €69,500. Tel. 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com Puerto Rico Beautiful apartment for sale in Puerto Rico. The two bedroom apartment was recently refurbished and has a private terrace (20m2) with seaviews. Brand new kitchen and seperate dining area. Sold completely furnished and ready to move in to! Complex with communal swimming pool. Bargain! Ref:PR650.Price:€98,000. Tel: 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com Maspalomas
Nice cosy duplex with garden area to the front. Completely refurbished throughout and fully furnished and ready to move into. Property of 60m2 and has one bathroom upstairs and another downstairs. Quiet complex in a quiet residential area. Ref. MP635. Price: €132,000. Tel: 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com San Agustín Fantastic bungalow for sale in San Agustín. The bungalow is totally refurbished and has air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen even with dishwasher. Bungalow in very popular complex with heated pool, childrens area, pool bar, supermarket and tennis court. Viewing strongly recommended. Ref. SA654. Price: €137,000. Tel. 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com San Fernando Fantastic house with 4 bedrooms for sale in San Fernando. Very centrally located. Supermarkets and shops for the daily needs are within walking distance. The house is sold unfurnished. Great opportunity to buy at this price! Ref.SF614. Price: €216,000. Tel. 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com --------------------------------------PLAYA DEL INGLÉS Near the promenade and Tropical shopping center, beautiful 2 bedrooms apartment with 4 balconies (85 m2), fully furnished, off-road parking, tennis. 176.400 Euro (Ref. 1.013D). INMOBILIARIA KSR, info@ksrgrancanaria.com MONTAÑA DE LA DATA Spacious Villa/Chalet, very special location with breath taking panoramic views, 5 bedrooms, 4 bath rooms, terraces and balconies, private pool and nice garden, garage and parking space, Possibility to upgrade with separate guest apartment. 598.000 Euro (Ref. 6.300C). INMOBILIARIA KSR, 928 766 684 SAN AGUSTIN Elegant Penthouse for a high standard life style with enormous terrace (60 m2) and fantastic sea view, 2 bedrooms (one with balcony), 2 bath, fully furnished, only few minutes away from the beach. 345.000 Euro (Ref. 2.505D). INMOBILIARIA KSR, www.ksrgrancanaria.com, 928 766 684 PLAYA DEL INGLÉS Near Hotel Riu Palace, very homely bungalow in well-kept complex with tropical gardens, heated pool, tennis. Generously
Contact us to share your news and celebrate your anniversaries. See page 31 for more information
www.thecanarynews.com proportioned floor plan, living and dining room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen all with access to the terrace, addition guest room. Tastefully decorated. 235.000 Euro (Ref. 3.001J). INMOBILIARIA KSR, info@ ksrgrancanaria.com MASPALOMAS Near the Golf Course and short distance to the light house, quiet terraced 1 bedroom bungalow in very well kept complex with heated pool and tennis, ample parking space, nicely furnished with all comfort. 135.000 Euro (3.509K2). INMOBILIARIA KSR, 928 766 684 SONNENLAND Charming Duplex-bungalow in private complex with beautiful pool area in tropical gardens, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, separate WC, front and rear terrace, small fenced garden, the property comes fully equipped (washing machine etc.). 129.500 Euro (Ref. 3.810B). INMOBILIARIA KSR, www. ksrgrancanaria.com PLAYA DEL INGLÉS Cosy Maisonette-Bungalow, 95 m2 living space, 3 bed rooms, 2 bath, spacious terrace partly covered, roof terrace, large storage room, fully equipped, offroad parking. 275.000 Euro (Ref. 4.008O). INMOBILIARIA KSR, 928 766 684 SAN AGUSTÍN Sophisticated bungalow with guest apartment, 155 m2 living space and 60 m2 terrace with breathtaking panoramic view, top quality, very tastefully decorated and equipped with lots of extras, residential complex, carport, pool, tennis. 495.000 Euro (Ref. 5.505J). INMOBILIARIA KSR, info@ksrgrancanaria.com PLAYA DEL INGLÉS Beautiful 1 bed room Apartment, very private balcony with sea view, luxuriously fitted, quiet location and well-kept complex with pools, private parking, 24hour security etc. 95.500 Euro (Ref. 1.004U). INMOBILIARIA KSR, 928 766 684 SAN AGUSTÍN A dream front line to the Atlantic: top-quality apartment (52 m2) with bright rooms tastefully designed, fully equipped, lot of storage space, complex with heated pool and direct access to the promenade, low maintenance costs. 178.000 Euro (Ref. 1.507D) INMOBILIARIA KSR, info@ ksrgrancanaria.com --------------------------------------ROCA REAL ESTATE 928 561667 www.inmobiliaria-roca.com STUDIOS OPPOSITE PUERTO RICO BEACH Very central location, all facilities
29 Cafe Florin
Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News nearby, fantastic views. Residential complex with pool. Ref: 10051 Sale price: 60.000.-€. PUERTO RICO 1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS, CENTRAL LOCATION, large pool, solarium, parking, reception, lifts, sea views. Ref: 10042. Sale price from: 62.000.-€ 1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS IN PUERTO, residential complex with fantastic sea views. Large swimming pool, solarium, & parking Ref: 10080. Sale price: 63.000.-€ 1 BEDROOM APARTMENT OPPOSITE PUERTO RICO BEACH. Spacious apartment, excellent location, in a quiet & very popular complex. Ref:10118 Sale price 100.000.-€ GREAT VALUE!! 2 BEDROOM DUPLEX, PUERTO RICO, VERY CENTRAL COMPLEX. Private or with rental contract. Ref: 10043. Sale price: 126.000.-€ BARRANCO DEL CURA, 2 bedroom country house, only 5 minutes from Playa del Cura, with garage, BBQ area, terraces & gardens. Plus a separate 1 bed apartment. Ref: 10125. Sale price: 490.000.-€ ROCA REAL ESTATE 928 561667 www.inmobiliaria-roca.com
FLATS TO
RENT
1, 2 and 3 Bedroom flats to rent in Arguineguin and Puerto Rico from 600 Euros all inclusive Call 618 647 027
PROPERTIES FOR RENT Private
Playa del Inglés (next to the Yumbo) Room to rent in 2 bedroom apartment. Available immediatly. Inc. internet, british TV, water and electricity. 350€ p.m. Contact 618 234 088 Puerto Rico. 1 bed apartment to let, quiet complex, 390€ per month + electricity + water. Phone 664 846 009
PROPERTIES FOR RENT Agent Puerto Rico Studio for rent in Puerto Rico. Nice view over the harbour and the sea. Close to all ammenities. The Studio also has a terrace and the complex offers a communal pool and parking area. All costs are included in the rental price. Ref:PR653.Price:€500/month. Tel: 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com Playa del Inglés Refurbished apartment in Paraiso Maspalomas. Very well run complex with various swimming pools, hairdressers, supermarket, restaurant and pool bar. Satellite TV incluiding Spanish, English and German channels. All bills are included in rental price. Ref:PI547.Price:€600/month. Tel: 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com Puerto Rico Spacious two bedroom flat with a balcony overlooking Puerto Rico and the water park and a rear terrace. Complex is only 4 years old and has a jacuzzi with spa jets, minigolf, swimming pool and baby pool as well as a “petanca” (Spanish bowls) pitch. There is an undergorund car park and a car parking space. Fully furnished throughout and very light and airy corner property. Ref. PR460a. Price: €700/month Tel. 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com Sonnenland Large family home for longterm rental on secure residential complex. Off road parking available for residents and the complex has a very nice pool area and childrens pool. There are five double bedrooms, each of which has its own balcony or terrace. The kitchen is fully equipped with an oven, 4-ring ceramic hob, fridge/freezer and a dishwasher. There is also a ultilty room with washing machine. Pets are allowed. Ref. : SN639. Price: €1.200/ month Tel. 928141202. DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com Tauro Newly built, modern villa near Tauro. Private garden and pool. Four spacious double bedrooms and two living areas. Marble floors and fully furnished throughout to a high Standard. Air-conditioning. Rental price includes gardener and pool maintenance. Ref. TR543a. Price: €1.700/ monthTel. 928141202.
DREAM HOMES www. dreamhomesgrancanaria.com --------------------------------------ROCA REAL ESTATE 928 561667 www.inmobiliaria-roca.com STUDIO APARTMENTS, close to Puerto Rico beach. Ref: 15051. Rent: 450.-€/month ONE BEDROOM APARTMENTS, close to Europa Centre, Puerto Rico. Ref: 15203. Rent: 440.-€ / month TWO BEDROOM DUPLEX, MOTORGRANDE, Puerto Rico. Rent: 550.-€/month TAURO SHOPPING CENTRE. 12 UNITS FOR RENT. 6 on top floor with own terrace. Six ground, floor no terrace. Private parking. Ideal for gym, spa, etc. Rent: 6.000.-€/month for all. ROCA REAL ESTATE 928 561667 www.inmobiliaria-roca.com
MECHANICS
BRITISH MECHANICS Free Collection and Delivery Service Service and Repair all Makes and Models Pre ITV inspection
CALL ANDY ON 620 343 228 OR CALL TERRY ON 693 451 067 We buy and sell Cars
including sunloungers, tables, sofas, chairs, sold as a lot. Contact Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm Mobile 699 062 789 Princess 45 Flybridge motor cruiser 1987 spanish flag berthed in Mogán 99,000€ more information phone 676 985 474 SPORTFISHING BUSINESS Gran Canaria. Includes Everything But The Fish Established, Successful, Great Berth Location. A Very Special Offer For Only - 75.000€ Call 607 671 617 OCEAN EXCURSION BUSINESS Gran Canaria Everything Included, Boat, Client Contracts, etc. 10 years of Proven Success, Fully Documented, Put 2-3000€ In Your Pocket Every Month A Lifetime Opportunity 150.000€ Call 607 671 617 Sportfishing Business Top Boat/Top Equipment In-place Contracts/Website/ Publicity - A Proven Track Record, South Coast of Gran Canaria, No Debt, Just Profits Exceptional Opportunity for Only 160.000€. Call 607 671 617 Liberty Insurance! Complete Coverage Canary Islands and Around the World Inexpensive, Quality Coverage By A World Class Broker That Pays! Call 607 671 617 for Cars, Boats, Businesses, Homes, Health Boat and Yacht Sales/ Service - Marine Surveys International Marketplace. All Logistics Included. We Find Your Dream Boat & Bring It To Where You Want It! Get Twice The Boat For Half The Price Call 607 671 617
Going out
FOR SALE Complete restaurant items for sale as new condition
Ground floor Yumbo Centre Playa del Inglés
Calle Alfreces Prov. 29 (opposite Hard Rock cafe) Charities Free tandem bike rides for blind people or people with any other physical disability who are unable to ride a bike by themselves. Also free excursions into the mountains in my car for people in wheelchairs together with a companion. Minibus trips can also be arranged at an agreed reasonable cost. For more information call Franz at 699 124 985. WANTED. Second hand books, in good condition, to be sold in support of Registered Childrens’ Charities 1) RUBBISH DUMP CHILDREN in Cambodia 2) ORPHANS/ SCHOOL projects in China. Please drop books off at Bar Wine and Marmalade, Arguineguin. donations gratefully received. Contact kay.r.owen@gmail. com Together we can make a difference Drinking Problem? International, English speaking AA meetings every Friday at the church in the Kasbah (door on the left hand side) Playa del Inglés, 8.30pm. Monday 12pm in San Fernando, behind Market Maspalomas and Tuesday 7pm at the Catholic Church (enter by the stairway on the right hind side), Behind the taxi rank next to the police station. Do you believe that you have a problem with alcohol? Perhaps you are looking or some help? Alcohol Anonymous meet in Telde on Mondays and Thursdays from 20.00 until 21.30. Call 928 202 638 TARA Animal Charity Shops. Big & Beautiful - In Arquinequin 63 & 67 c/Tanausu near Pino Seco family park Monday thru Saturday 10am till at least 4pm. All Kinds of Donated Items ON OFFER! 607 671 617 or www.Taraanimales.org TARA Animal Car Boot Sale. Every Saturday 8am 2pm. Across from TARA Animal Charity Shops. Pino Seco Park, Arguineguin - Great Buys & Ambience Call - 607 671 617 for More Information TARA Charity Dog Pension. HOME AWAY
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The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
FROM HOME. Beautiful Location, Low Prices, Your Pets Cared for By Dog Lovers 607 671 617 or www.Taraanimales.org TARA Animal Welfare Charity. Needs Donated Goods To Save Animals Pick-up Service Available For Big Loads. Volunteers & Foster Homes Also Needed. Dog/Pups, Cats/Kittens Need Homes Now Call 607 617 671 or www.Taraanimales.org Tara Animal Respect
Association NIF G35917004 - Register G1/S1/13980-06/GC. TARA Telephone: +34 607 671 167 WEBSITE: www.TaraAnimales.org FACEBOOK: Tara Animal Respect TARA BLOG: http://Taraanimales.blogspot.com/ Arguineguin Cultural Society meets every Thursday at Tío Pepe bar from 20.00 at the C.C. Ancora in Arguineguín. As mentioned
previously in TCN, the group were looking for a place to build up our string puppet stage and to train people in the making and operating of string puppets. The group has now found a suitable place in Arguineguín and if anyone is interested in joining them please call Peter on 639 229 414 and go to the meetings on Thursdays. Grupo Montañero de Mogan. Every Sunday all through the year this group
arranges guided walks in the magnificent mountains and beautiful valleys of Gran Canaria. The walks are guided, and the members come from all over Europe, and also many Canarian members. Meeting place: Commercial Centre Ancora, Arguineguin. Time 08.00. Departure 08.15. Leaving from San Fernando (Viuda de Franco) 08.00 or 08.30. For more information call before 12.00 on Fridays 689 919 580
Can you spare a few hours each week to help feed stray and abandoned cats in San Agustin? There are special feeding places, all the cats are sterilised, have names and are very healthy. Of course, we will buy the cat food. We only want help to give the food to the cats.Please call Christina on 928770 019 for more information. Join the library in Maspalomas with your NIE number and passport and picture or residencia. No charge. English books and other European languages too. Also free internet access.!! The library hours are 8.00 am till 2.30 pm and 3.30 pm to 10 pm Monday to Friday. Biblioteca Municipal Maspalomas, Casa del Cultura Maspalomas, Avda De Tejeda 72 Phone 928 720 035 Amigos contra el Sida is a charity that provides support for people with HIV and Aids and has information about sexually transmitted diseases Amigos contra el Sida - Friends against Aids Av. Alejandro del Castillo, Mercado Municipal, 2º floor San Fernando Maspalomas Contact: 695578004. Timetable: Tuesday and Thursday - 9:00 to 15:00 hour. Amigos contra el Sida Calle El Escorial nº 7, Vecindario Teléfono: 928 149 570 Timetable: Monday to Friday - 9:00 to 14:00 hour. Website: www.amigoscontraelsida.org Support Maria Templeman’s Dog Rescue. You can find Maria’s stall in Arguineguin market on Tuesdays and Mogan market
www.thecanarynews.com on Fridays. You can also find Maria in Maspalomas market next to the big, main flood light on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Money raised from Maria’s stall goes to funding dog rescue in Gran Canaria, including vet and kennel fees and re-homing dogs
Wanted new owner for pointer puppys. Contact Muriel 607 671 617
SERVICES
www.thecanarynews.com
Issue 22 - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - The Canary News FARO 2 MARKET 28th March, 1st Sunday in every month there after BOOKS sold in support of Registered Children’s Charities (Home and Abroad) Over 500 books from 1 Euro. Also book donations wanted can collect - Contact kay.r.owen@gmail.com or drop books off at Wine and Marmalade Bar in Arguineguín
31
BUY, DONATE, SWAP BOOK LIBRARY All proceeds go to The Red Cross. Cristina´s Money Exchange, Local 261, Phase 1, CC Puerto Rico MON TO FRI 10am to 8pm SAT 10am to 1.30pm For appointments please tel 928 561 771
MOTHER AND TODDLER GROUP EVERY WEDNESDAY FROM 4PM ONWARDS Different activities every week in the local Puerto Rico area Meet othermums with children of all ages. Call Jo Pike on 639 153 547 You can even leave a message on their
‘face book’ wall!
ADDICTIONS ALCOHOL & DRUGS Let us help you overcome your problem in a painless way. Contact us for a confidential consultation It can make a real difference On your road to recovery Tel: 928 934 097 Mobile: 619 391 040 Email: addictedgc@gmail.com
Dana Ptacinsky Asrilant
LEGAL TRANSLATOR AND INTERPRETER C/Luis Doreste Silva 56, 6º-2, 35004, Las Palmas de G.C. Tel: 686 412 345
THE CANARIAN PRO BREASTFEEDING runs a Support Group every Wednesday from 6pm until 8pm at the C.C. Botanico, Local 135, San Fernando. Anyone needing help and support concerning breastfeeding can also call 637 564 296 (leave a message if there is no answer with name and telephone number)
dptacinsky79@hotmail.com
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The Canary News - Friday 7th May - Thursday 20th May 2010 - Issue 22
Telephone: 928 141 202
Mobile: 676 406 679
Dream Homes , C.C. Yumbo Local 411/10 , 35100 Playa del Inglés , G.C. info@dreamhomesgrancanaria.com www.dreamhomesgrancanaria.com
For Sale
Playa del Inglés
San Agustin
Playa del Inglés
Price: 231,550€ Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Bungalow in excellent position only mins from the Yumbo centre in Playa del Inglés. Situated close to the off-street parking. Large terrace to the front and the back. Totally refurbished throughout. Large awning and solar panel provides all hot water. Communal swimming pool.
Price: 280,000€ Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Lovely and spacious apartment. Recently refurbished to high standards. Breathtaking views from the balcony over the ocean and the gardens. The kitchen is fully equipped. 2 large bedrooms with build-in wardrobes. Access to the balcony from the big living-room (25m2). Only a few minutes from the beach and the shopping center.
Price: 220,000€ Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1 Beautiful bungalow with an independant kitchen and a large covered porch. The bungalow is set in well kept grounds and has 2 heated communal pools. With easy access to the dunes and the commercial centres, this bungalow is still very peaceful and quiet. Beautiful property with lots of possibilities to extend into 2 bedrooms if required.
San Agustin
Playa del Inglés
Playa del Inglés
Price: 750€/month Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1
Price: 550€/month Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1
Price: 550€/month Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1
Fantastic bungalow for rent in San Agustín. Sea views and views of the dunes. Large, spacious terrace and only a few minutes from the shopping centre. Bungalow in very popular complex with heated pool, childrens area, pool bar, supermarket and tennis court.
Very centrally situated 1 bedroom apartment in the complex Iguazu on the Avenida de Tirajana. Available for longterm rental. Only steps from the shops and the Yumbo Commercial Centre. The monthly rental price includes community, water and electric.
One bedroom apartment for rent in Playa del Inglés. Only a few minutes from the dunes and the comercial centre Cita. Complex with 24h reception, pool, childrens-pool and pool bar. Off road parking available.
For Rent
Hasta el 24 de m
ayo | Until May 24
IDEAS PARA
IDEAS FOR YOUR
HROOM TU BAÑO Y BAANTD KITCHEN TU COCINA AL MEJOR PRECIO
AT THE BEST PRICES PRECIO ESPECIAL
110€
CONJUNTO BAÑO DAVINIA De 60 x 45 cm. Lavabo de cristal templado de seguridad, soporte y espejo. (Grifería y apliques no incluidos).
NUEVO FOLLETO ¡YA EN TU TIENDA! NEW BOOKLET NOW IN YOUR STORE!
PRECIO ESPECIAL
3.719€ COCINA PLUM 13,44 m2. El PVP corresponde a la composición de muebles, puertas y cajones que se muestra en la foto.
Financiación especial en cocinas y baños
Special finance on kitchens and bathrooms
Puedes elegir la forma de pago que mejor se adapte a ti.*
You can choose the form of payment that best suit to you.*
* Consulta condiciones en tienda.
* Please ask for terms and conditions inside the shop.
EL BAÑO Y LA COCINA QUE SIEMPRE HAS QUERIDO
GET THE BATHROOM OR KITCHEN THAT YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED Si quieres renovar tu baño y tu cocina no esperes más. En Leroy Merlin tenemos para ti cientos de productos a un precio especial para que puedas elegir todo lo que necesitas para realizar tu proyecto. ¡Ahora es el momento! If you want to upgrade your bathroom or kitchen, look no further. At Leroy Merlin we have hundreds of products on offer at a special price, so you can select everything you need to make your dream project a reality. Now´s the time! Busca los productos a precio especial en el folleto de tu tienda Check out our specially-priced products as listed in the in-store booklet available at Leroy Merlin Telde | P. Comercial La Mareta - Las Palmas | Tel.: 928 707 600 o visita | or visit www.leroymerlin.es
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