September16webissue

GrapevineCyprus.com September 2016

Fi F rs R M t F EE on r th ida ly y

a window on your world

Š Grapevine • September 2016

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Upfront Hopefully now the worst of the humidity and heat have gone and life can begin to return to normality!

September is generally a good month to get out and about with a host of events to attend. This year is no exception, take a look at page 8 and see my selection. I’m sorry that I can no longer put everything in. My choice is based primarily on charity fund raisers and unusual ‘one-off’ events.

It helps me if when you send details of your events as word document attachments.

There’s some interesting reading this month; Andreas has a lot to say about the spoiling of the Akamas Peninsular, Barbara investigates the use of courier services in Cyprus and there is positive feedback about the idea of water taxis in Paphos.

‘Siesta’ in Nicosia Market photographed by Donald Buchanan

Our money and legal matters writers have news on all the up and coming changes that could affect you or your family. Meanwhile Cherry tries to inspire us with some tasty rice titbits! Plus there’s all the club news and gossip for you to get your teeth into.

Back next month,

Full Moon This Month September 16th

Next Issue Friday, 7th October

Catch up online www.grapevinecyprus .com

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With thanks to all our advertisers and contributors for the articles / photos / ads that makes Grapevine the leader of the pack - we aim to stay leader and will continue to innovate and change to make sure our readers and advertisers are getting the best service on the island

© Grapevine • September 2016

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Crie de Cour-ier

by Barbara Strain

I don’t use courier services often, but whenever I have cause to send or receive I find so many frustrations in what should be a straightforward service.

It is usually the case that such companies are used for urgent or important shipments, so direct door to door service is in order. One time, a UK bank sent some very important documents that required our signatures. Sure enough, we had a telephone call to say that the documents had arrived in the company’s office. OK, so when can you deliver them? Ahh, not so simple. We live, it seems, in a ‘remote area’. OK, so it’s a village, but we aren’t exactly in the foothills of the Himalayas. Come to that, we aren’t even in the foothills of the Troodos. We live five minutes from one of the main highway points - the old ‘station’ where the camel trains used to stop. If only we still had camels. I tried to arrange a drop-off at this point, since the company’s vehicles must travel that way to get between towns. OK, except the driver was confused about the rendezvous and took the wrong exit - the package had already travelled from one town to the other and he was coming back again with it.

In order to send the signed documents back to the bank I opted to use a different courier. Since I had to travel into the big city anyhow, I decided not to give my service to the courier firm who got lost so easily – I wanted my documents to arrive at the right place – preferably delivered by hand. To a non-remote spot in the city of London.

It’s not only such important paperwork that comes by courier. Some online mail- order deliveries are executed by this means rather than the regular post.

I have learned to accept this as a fact of life, but have somewhat simplified matters since I discovered that the island’s major import/export courier company has a depot at the airport. That’s closer for us, and means that we don’t have to find the impossible parking space in town. Sadly – and I don’t actually blame the company for this – the call that a parcel has arrived comes invariably just as we return home after a day in town, passing by the depot on our way home oblivious of the fact that my newly ordered goodies are sitting there waiting for me.

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I don’t know why they don’t use the post more often, since the postal service here works fairly well – despite some glitches around Christmas or when there are outside influences at work, such as the collapse of some airlines or the dumping of mail carrying by others.

They have track and trace, which seems to work really well – you can follow the path of your parcel, albeit slowly, through the system.

We have an excellent service in the village, and though the post is delivered only twice a week, I need only add one or two days to the estimated delivery date to have the goods in my hand; at my door.

I must say, following my latest foray courierwise, that the good ol’ P.O.is easiest. Took papers to a courier agency. Easy, got a slip with an airway bill number. Two days later, tried their track and trace. Not known. Phoned them and after some searching, they found that it had been delivered to another courier – for overseas delivery (I didn’t know they sub-contracted until I was told this). Given new company’s tracking reference. No deal when I tried their online system. Phoned them, and my parcel is not on their system. Oh no, not yet – not until the package is scanned. Doh, and there’s me thinking that a tracking reference would be in the system once it is issued.

Fingers crossed these important documents get to their destination. Oh dear, then I have to wait for their return….by courier.

Interested in magic then visit: www.paphosmagicsociety.com Or email: paphosmagicsociety@gmail.com

Magically yours

by Peter Stammers

Paphos Magic Society easy trick series.

This month: Turn Over Card Effect: A chosen card reverses itself in the pack.

Secret: Spread the cards face down and ask a spectator to take any card. While he is showing the card to the rest of the audience, secretly reverse the bottom card then turn the whole pack over in your hands.

Walk towards the spectator and ask him to replace his card in the pack face down.

As you walk back to your table, turn the reversed card face up and turn over the Whole pack again. All the cards are now face down with the exception of one card -— the one the spectator chose..

© Grapevine • September 2016

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Revolution of the Mind Series: Quarries - The Rape of Akamas

by Andreas C Chrysafis Article Two (of Three)

A crime is about to be committed in the heart of Akamas and yet the government, politicians and political parties take no initiative to avert this catastrophe. Like true hypocrites, come electiontime they will wake up from their deep hibernation full of promises attempting to win votes so they can continue the charade of - “see nothing; hear nothing; do nothing”.

The crime? A heavy quarry operation in Akamas is likely to be approved - just like the mega wealthy Schacolas Group “Cyprus Limni Resorts & Golf Courses” Project, which has recently received the blessing of the government. The approval of the Limni project is in direct conflict of EU Environmental Laws but with ministerial and presidential intervention influencing the decision making process, anything is possible in Cyprus.

So, do not just lament the fate of Limni in Argaka but also lament the fate of the Akamas Peninsula; it’s about to receive the same treatment at the cost of its wonderful ecosystem! This rare Jewel in the Med is about to be chipped away by pure greed in the name of “progress”.

While contacts were made with a number of ministries, government institutions, MP’s and political parties for their position on the proposed quarry operation as predicted, they did what Cyprus is notorious for; none had the courtesy or the decency to reply! It’s as if there is an official conspiracy of silence with instructions to approve the new quarry on the sly.

If this environmental massacre is not stopped, Akamas will soon meet the fate of Pentadaktilos in the occupied area. There are over 40 quarries that operate night and day to devour an entire mountain range while corrupt authorities and officials choose to turn a blind eye to it all.

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Ironically - unbelievable as it may sound - fifty per cent of the quarried material from Pentadaktilos is sold to Greek Cypriot mega developers and the construction industry in the Republic! Turkish Cypriot quarries are churning out sand, stone, gypsum and boulders to build marinas, wave breakers and villas by gobbling up entire mountain-peaks. On this matter the Cyprus government and the EU environmental agencies or the Greens have done absolutely nothing to stop this madness; the ecocarnage continues to the present day without opposition! The opening of the crossings has escalated the problem a thousand-fold and there seems no ending to the ecodevastation; closing them down would be a good thing to consider!

The uncontrolled blasting produces an ecological catastrophe from hundreds of heavy-duty lorries servicing those quarry operations: dust, the deterioration of road surfaces, air pollution, crumbling mountain sides; landslides; traffic jams; the uprooting of ancient forests; ugly scars of swathes of land that grow bigger by the day remain as evidence that no-one is prepared to stop this brutality.

Those despicable eco-atrocities are familiar scenes that are happening not only in the occupied area but also in the Republic and under the very eyes of the local authorities that choose to remain silent.

The continuing rape of Akamas Peninsula for boulders and aggregate began a few years back and once the new Petrakis Gorge quarry is approved to join up with its sister quarries nearby, the eco-system will receive a fatal blow.

The combined scarring of the region by the heavy operations will prove catastrophic to the pristine region of Neon Chorion, Prodromi, Polis and the entire Bay of Chrysochou.

Tourists and foreign visitors will be shocked at the sight of such ecobrutality committed by a Cypriot culture against their own country.

Unless society raises the level of moral integrity of its culture and people start to consider the destruction of the environment as an immoral act, there is little hope but to allow mayhem win over common sense. That’s precisely what is taking place today; no common sense or dignity!

Ministries and technocrats responsible for issuing licensing of quarries misguidedly believe that Cyprus is in need of such operations for growth. Humbug! There are other alternatives but corporate cultural greed and corruption has so

far determined the end result.

Communities on the other hand, refuse to protect their ecosystem and one wonders what kind of mentality governs those local authorities. At the present, when the wind blows the Bay of Chrysochou is engulfed by clouds of flying fine dust swept away from the two operating quarries of Droushia and Androlikou. Yet, no one takes responsibility or is prosecuted for such criminality for air pollution. If the Petrakis Gorge is approved, things will certainly get much worse.

Currently, independent EIA studies presented to the Environmental Impact Assessment Commission normally determine the outcome of an application. The glossier the report, the glossier the chances are to fool the Commission and a game of fools ensues where breaking the law becomes the game of the day.

Recently, the Auditor-General revealed that in the decision-making process of government institutions, there exists a do-nothing policy and the law is not enforced because nobody is in charge. Nobody wants to take a political decision and when technocrats of the various departments sit together at meetings, they pass on the responsibility to others and take no decisions.

Dealing with the Akamas quarry application, the scene is no different: officials and technocrats gather together in closed meetings without an in-depth investigation, and instead, afraid to make a decision the Commission relies on the information provided by the applicants themselves or their affiliated independent consultancy firms.

The Investigation On investigation it was discovered that three separate companies applied for the quarry licence in Akamas. The Department of the Environment had also confirmed that the ad hoc committee deliberated on the environmental studies and the EIA reports given by the three applicants. It has been stated that examining the applications were officers with “specialized knowledge” from the Environment Department, the Forestry department, the Game and Fauna Services, the Federation of Environmental Organisations of Cyprus and the Cyprus Conservation Foundation (Terra Cypria).

The fact that the three companies (not named) were subsidiaries of the same parent company applying for the quarry licence (also the

owners of the other two quarries) it’s certainly questionable. Using the same EIA Consultancy firms to provide a report in support of a quarry operation is also questionable.

When the matter was brought to the attention of the Environment Department that such sleight of hand infringes open competition practices under the monopolies commission, the response was quite amazing.

The fact that the three applicantcompanies were under the same umbrella of one of the biggest Group of Companies in Cyprus (not named) it was considered immaterial and was brushed off: “for the Department of Environment, it was not an issue raised during the environmental assessment of the applications (for the Petrakis Gorge quarry licensing).

The report of the Geological Department responsible for creating quarry zones in Akamas together with the Mines Department’s report for quarrying activities in Androlikou have both sealed the destiny of the national park of Akamas. Economic and political interests have prevailed over the protection of the environment; the Big Brother will approve it and therefore it makes it all right!

Can it be stopped? Only if citizens are determined to fight for what is honorable and decent by demanding their rights, in the streets if necessary. Experience however prescribes that Cypriots will not do so but especially in a region where local citizens and the authorities support any kind of development in their locality and the Akamas peninsula is one of them!

What happens to Akamas Peninsula depends entirely on people’s reaction. Not everything is doom and gloom and Akamas can be saved but only if citizens take leadership and become vociferous as a unified group that demands protection of their beautiful environment. The mass media has also an important role to play if the Akamas is to be saved or not!

But, when a nation neglects to protect its environment in the name of profit, there is only one ending; it’s doomed to failure!

Feedback Dear Editor, Re: Proposal for Water-bus Transport in Cyprus The Blue Line Shipbuilders in Kato Paphos appreciate the article in the August issue by Mr DJ Slimin (Naval Architect), recommending us to assist in developing, and helping local artisans build, an island-wide Water-bus System for Cyprus. We ourselves had just this idea for a project last year, and added it to our Blue Line Development Plan. We then put it on hold until suitable investment could be raised.

We have a number of ideas for boats that would be suitable for Cypriot circumstances and sea conditions, and would be very pleased to discuss these further with Mr Slimin, and with any interested marine engineers, and prospective investors or operators. In the first instance they should contact Marios Parpour, Blue Line’s Special Projects Director (mob: +357 99 42 79 76).

One of our plans in developing Blue Line has been to attract semi-retired marine engineers and other boat industry specialists as consultants. We will then put an R&D team together to progress this Water Bus project, along with the others that we already have, and hopefully, have something to show for Paphos’ 2017 European Capital of Culture year.

Regards, Andrew Slack, Marine Activities Consultant Blue Line Shipbuilders, Paphias Aphroditis 6, 8041 Kato Paphos, Cyprus You will find us near the “Cyprus Weekly Corner” kiosk, off the main road down to Paphos Harbour.

Peyia Bowling Club News It certainly has not been a quiet bowling time during June and July. We have been living up to the challenge of playing in a two bowls only Competition, many of us being involved in four out of the five different categories and congratulations go to all the participants involved.

The winners being;Mixed Single’s - Alan Harvey .

Ladies’ Pair’s - Carol McGrath and Val Williamson.

Mens’ Pair’s - Mick Haylor and George McGill.

Mixed Pairs - George McGill and Barbara Roberts.

Mixed Triple’s - Alan Harvey, Derek Phillips, Peter and Sheila Wright.

During July and August we are training for the Inter-Clubs Triples League starting on 1st September.

In August, our social activities include a ‘Food’ and ‘Drink’ Quiz run by Derek and Norma Redfearn at the Costa Rica Taverna. Other social activities planned include, Mini Golf, a Picnic, Boules, and Ten Pin Bowling.

Several of our Club Members get involved in weekly Quizes’, run by different organisations, where two Teams involved in separate events, have successfully raised 300 and 450 Euros respectively for the PAWs Dog Shelter. As a result, a Bowling match between the Quiz teams has been arranged during the Autumn. Across the years many of our Club Members have volunteered at the PAWs Dog Shelter or PAWS Charity Shop and we get involved in volunteering in other Charities too, which provide a valuable service to the community in a variety of ways.

Our Club Members pride themselves on their welcome to new or experienced Bowlers and Social Members too. We offer new or experienced Bowlers of any level, coaching on an individual or team basis. Look us up on our Club Web site WWW.bowlingincyprus.com or phone Mike Holtom on 99296508. Or pop down to the Green at the Corallia Beach Hotel, on a Saturday or Wednesday at 8.30am for 9.0am, or a Monday afternoon at 3.30pm for 4.0pm, to meet us and see for yourself just how much we enjoy our game of Bowls.

The Royal British Legion Paphos Branch

By David Perry

Once again we are commemorating the centenary of a battle that lasted many months and cost so many lives on both sides, yes I refer to the Somme offensive which started at the beginning of July 1916. It was after WW1 that the Royal British Legion was formed to aid comfort, comradeship and assistance to those who had served and suffered in the name of King and Country.

The Royal British Legion is the custodian of “Remembrance” and once again we are approaching that time of the year when we think about the Poppy Appeal. Even here in Cyprus we get our Poppies from the Poppy Factory in England, they have now arrived and we will be looking for venues to place our boxes for the duration of the Poppy Appeal, this mid-October until just after Remembrance Sunday. Our Remembrance Service will again be held in front of the fort at Paphos harbour by kind permission of the mayor of Paphos Phedonas Phedonos. Anyone interested in The Royal British Legion or assisting us can contact us by email on PaphosBranch@gmail.com or you are welcome to come along to one of our monthly branch meetings at Neo’s Sports Club. October – April: - 2nd Sunday of the month 3.00pm. May – September: - 2nd Thursday of the month 7.30pm. Our annual General Meeting will be held at Neo’s on 16th October 7 for 7. 30pm. When we launch the Poppy appeal. We also hold functions at other times of the year, which again are open to all. © Grapevine • September 2016

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Selection of Events in September Tala amphitheater September 9th 8.00 p.m.

Composer: Polis Charalambus. Organizer: Culture tones org/ Co-Organizer: Tala’s Community Council.

Music Hyper-producrtion. Oratorio-Fantasy-Ballet.

“Evagora of Cyprus”. The work is probably one of the biggest production ever been presented in Cyprus.

It presents the history of Cyprus from 411 b.c. with Evagoras as a King of ancient city of Salamis until 1960 a.d. the hero Evagoras Pallikarides and the Intipentance of Cyprus. The music is composed by Polyvios ( Polis) Charalambous and the lyrics belong to anciet Poet Homer, Vasilis Michaelides, Andros Pavlides and Polis Charalambous. The work is composed in a so called serious style and uses various aspects from differents musical periods. There is also a significant use of jazz and even rock harmonies and rhythm. The production is part of the PAFOS 2017 program and will be presented at Tala’s Anphitheater on September 9th at 8.00 p.m. Tickets by SOLD OUT tickets . 30.00 / 20.00 euro.

Saturday 17th September Paws Annual Raft Race Are you the ones to beat our current champions? This year’s PAWS annual Raft Race is on at the Bona Mare beach at Timi. Why not come along a join us either to take part or simply to have fun watching the teams compete. All you need is a team of 2 to 4 people and a home-made raft to paddle.

It is only €20 to register (by 10th Sept) and we ask each team to raise at least €50 in sponsorship. Following the race is a fantastic BBQ meal for only €7 per head. After all that paddling and cheering we are sure that everyone will need it! Last year we had six rafts taking part; this year we want to beat that! So, come on you water babies out there, get designing and building.

The Pharos Arts Foundation The Pharos Arts Foundation is also pleased to present Absolute Zero, a solo show of work from British artist Adam Ball. The exhibition includes drawings, signature paper and coloured fabric cut-outs and new raw pigment paintings. This recent body of work by Adam Ball has been evolving since first being exhibited at the Goss-Michael Foundation, US in 2014, and the Bait Al Zubair Museum, Oman in 2015. In Cyprus, the exhibition will be on show from 28 September until 22 October 2016 at The Pharos Centre for Contemporary Art, before touring to the UK to be exhibited at Eton College, Windsor.

The Pharos Arts Foundation opens its Fall 2016 season with the return visit of one of the most charismatic and renowned pianists in the world: Sergei Babayan – an artist who has been hailed for the immediacy, sensitivity and depth of his interpretations, the rare emotional intensity and bold energy of his performances and his extraordinary mastery in exploring a stylistically diverse repertoire. Babayan will join forces with Pharos’

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resident cellist, the remarkable Alexander Chaushian, in a colossal programme of cello sonatas by Debussy, Shostakovich and Beethoven. The recital will take place on Monday 12 September 2016, at The Shoe Factory, Nicosia / 8:30pm.

Olive Tree Day: Open Day at the Olive Park Oleastro Organic olive oil Oleastro is organizing a celebration for the olive tree at the Olive Park Oleastro in Anogyra on October 2 from 11.00-17.00. Free Entrance The official program starts at 12 and includes: Cooking/ baking demonstration, Olive Bread Baking/ Pastelli/ Halloumi demonstration, Free drinks and mementos, Traditional professions and artists (demos of basket weaving, glass painting, ‘pithkiavli’ – traditional flute -/ jewelry making and lots of traditional handicrafts), Park Exhibits, painting exhibition ‘The Olive Tree in Art’, film on the story of olive oil, Traditional dancing, music, and games, Traditional buffet . ‘The Olive Park is a tribute to this wonderful tree that has healed and nourished Cypriots for thousands of years, and we would like to welcome everyone to celebrate this day with us,’ say the organizers. For more information, 99525093.

For this month’s live music listings visit www.nitbats.com you will win a prize. If anyone else is willing to donate anything for these prizes please contact us.. We must thank Fitzgerald Estate Agency and Top Quotes for sponsoring the event. So if you, please, if you will be in the area, on the 25th September bring some €2 coins and add to the trail. For further information, please contact Ruth 99389073 or Linda 99562387 or look at the Facebook page Money Trail.

PARC Events for September Donate some of your “Time” to help out with our Animal Welfare Programme . Even an hour or two a week, a month or when ever you can really helps, no experience needed we will show you the ropes..

Monthly Saturday Table Top Sale from 10pm till 2am at the Coral Star Restaurant opposite Phillippos Supermarket Coral Bay. Vendor Tables also available for €10 each call Pam (99059068) for bookings. Next TT September 17th. Tuesday Fun Quiz 7-30 start & €5 entry also at the Coral Star (full bar & food available).

Next Quiz September 6th. Call Fiona (96589430) for more details or to book your team. If you have any unwanted gifts, bric-a-brac, clothing, household items etc, then please donate them to PARC. Call Jean (96219797) or Julie (99712149) for more details

One Day, One Song Do you fancy being part of a several hundred strong choir who will perform on Paphos Harbour..

Whilst doing this, you will be helping raise funds for Archangel Michael Hospice.. It will cost you €5, and all this money will go to the Hospice. You will get a few hours of rehearsal of the chosen song led by professional musicians, then at 5pm everyone will meet down at the harbour to perform the song, together.

This is where the title of the event comes in ‘One Day, One Song!!! You learn the song and perform it in one day. It is open to all ages and everybody is welcome irrespective of their vocal ability. It is all about having fun. The date of this event is 2nd October 2016. For further information please see the Facebook page One Day One Song!! or contact Ruth on 99389073 or Paul 96482036 Application forms are available now. We are also looking for sponsors for the event, again please contact the same people.

St Barnabas’ Table Top Sale Are you struggling to make ends meet? Do you have unwanted items cluttering up your home? Are you raising funds for a charity or community group? If yes, why not reserve a pitch at St Barnabas’ Table Top Sale 3 September and make some extra cash. Pitches, the length of one long table cost €10 each excluding tables.

Buyers you can pick up a bargain. Previous items for sale have included art, baby items, books, bric-a-brac, DVDs, greeting cards, household goods, jewellery, small collectible antiques, good quality second-hand clothing, handmade crafts, pre-loved treasures, toys, yummy home baking and much more besides. This is always a great day out for the family so come and join us. Free car parking in various locations around the church grounds. Refreshments will be on sale in the church hall where you can be assured of a warm welcome! For more information/ to reserve a pitch email nora.ananiades@cytanet.com.cy or call 99356451

Money Trail 25th September We are working hard in planning the Money Trail fundraising event at Paphos Harbour area on the 25th September. We will be there from 8am in the morning hoping to collect €2 from the early morning strollers. For those of you who have not heard about this challenge, we are intending to cover a red ribbon 100 metres in length with €2 coins. If we complete the full length that will be €8000 raised for the Archangel Michael Hospice. Not only are we asking for €2 but we have had local businesses donate prizes, so along the ribbon are various stars, put a €2 coin on this star and

Farmers Market in Pano Akourdaleia Herb Garden on Sunday 4/Sep, 10am-2pm.

Farmers & Crafters Market in Pano Akourdaleia Herb Garden. Sunday 2/Oct 10am-2pm. Local, natural, homemade and handmade. Supporting your local community by buying directly from the producers, artists and crafters. Coffee shop on site.

Great social atmosphere! For more details visitwww. facebook.com/groups/heavenonearthherbals or contact 96425879/99993412.”

© Grapevine • September 2016

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Up for Ransom

by Barbarian

These days ransom notes aren’t made of letters clipped out of a newspaper in a Sherlock Holmes story. Instead, the note may come to you after you have had an attack on your PC through malicious software known as ransomware.

It’s exasperating enough when your computer is sluggish because of a virus, but what if the virus installs embarrassing pornography on your screen or encrypts your data so you can’t read it? Ransomware attacks often use these tactics to demand that you pay to remove the pornography or to access your files.

The FBI recently issued an alert about the broader category of rogueware, which includes ransomware and fake antivirus scareware scams, noting that when a ransomware attack occurs, it can easily elevate from a potential data loss to potential identity theft to a data breach in the form of extortion.

Serious stuff.

Attackers may use one of several different approaches to extort money from their victims: After a victim discovers he cannot open a file, he receives an email ransom note demanding a relatively small amount of money in exchange for a private key. The attacker warns that if the ransom is not paid by a certain date, the private key will be destroyed and the data will be lost forever.

The victim is duped into believing that he is the subject of a police inquiry.

After being informed that unlicensed software or illegal web content has been found on his computer, the victim is given instructions for how to pay an electronic fine.

The malware surreptitiously encrypts the victim’s data but does nothing else.

In this approach, the data kidnapper anticipates that the victim will look on the Internet for how to fix the problem and makes money by selling antiransomware software on legitimate websites.

As with other attacks, you can work to avoid ransomware. Experts advise taking these steps to avoid attacks: Use reputable antivirus software and a firewall. Antivirus software comes in many varieties. Not all reputable brands are expensive, and some are free.

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Check out AVG, McAfee, Norton and the Microsoft versions for your PC. Back up often to either an external hard drive or to an online backup service. Keep all the original software programs and save all your important documents and information outside the PC. Enable your popup blocker. Popups are a prime tactic used by the bad guys, so simply avoid even accidentally clicking on an infected popup. If a popup appears, click on the X in the right-hand corner.

The buttons within a popup might have been reprogrammed by the criminals, so do not click on them.

Regularly update software, programs, and applications to protect against the latest vulnerabilities.

Exercise caution. Don’t click on links inside emails, and avoid suspicious websites.

If your PC does come under attack, use another computer to research details about the type of attack to avoid further compromising your PC. But be aware that the bad guys are devious enough to create fake sites, perhaps touting their own fake antivirus software or their de-encryption program.

If you receive a ransomware note, disconnect from the Internet so your personal data isn’t transmitted back to the criminals. If you have backed up your data, you can start from scratch and re-install software. If you don’t feel comfortable doing so or you are unable to start fresh, you may need to take your computer to a reputable repair shop.

Don’t be tempted to give in and pay the ransom – just like those newspaper cutting ransom notes, if you give in, they are likely to further extort you and most likely not release your information.

© Grapevine • September 2016

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What Will You Wish For? Cremation V Burial

by Sam Orgill

Make a Will & Choose How Do You Want To Leave This World ? Safe, Secure, Fun When you make a Will you are setting out how your accumulated processions, assets and wealth are to be passed on and who to. You could create legacies for the good of your family down the generations, or through charities that you support. You could also support and favour one beneficiary over another.

You can also direct how your affairs are dealt with, including the burning issue of cremation v burial.

Cremation V Burial Not everyone likes to discuss their funeral service and how their body is disposed of. However if you will die, these questions need to be dealt with.

Often this is done with private agreement within the family. In this article I will explore what choices and options exist.

A recent survey in the UK found British people had a 60% preference for cremation. Of those favouring cremation 80% envisaged their ashes be scattered.

Interestingly the survey showed that older people swung towards cremation while young people still prefer burial.

Young or old is a relative term. Some people think they could live beyond 100 but the average age at death in the UK is 81. When we do die making a Written Will ensures your wishes are carried out, and these wishes could include your funeral service, and the cremation v burial choice.

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You Choose How your body is disposed of is something you can direct. On death your executors may decide on cremation v burial and the type of funeral service and its content. If you make a Will you can leave specific detailed letters of wishes and instructions to your executors. If you don’t make a Will you are at the whim of a court appointed executor to decide on your way out.

In the UK the executors can choose between cremation or burial. Under new cremation law in Cyprus the executors cannot choose cremation: unless the deceased leaves written instructions requesting cremation a body in Cyprus must be buried.

Cremation is available in Cyprus, but there are no licenced crematoria yet. A body could still be relocated to a home country to allow cremation.

If you want cremation in Cyprus you must put this is a signed letter that can be a clause added to your Will or as a separate Letter of Wishes.

Once cremated the ashes could be ‘scattered’ or retained in an urn, or buried in a memorial.

These choices have to be expressed before death.

Putting them in writing creates an obligation for the trustees to carry out your wishes.

With Burial in Cyprus it is important to understand the traditions, that a public cemetery does not provide a permanent burial spot. Make no bones about it, if you want to be buried and rest in peace in Cyprus you have to buy a private burial plot.

Who can you trust?

In crusader days Knights would hand over his castle and lock up their wives in a chastity belt then entrusted the keys to a friend who was responsible for protecting his assets. This practice became part of English law and is a basis of inheritance tax trust and estate planning.

Make a Will and Trust to protect overseas property assets for your family and friends on death. For more control, and protection from Cyprus Laws of Succession, you could create a lifetime Family Trust to hold property, investment or business assets. A Family Trust avoids Cyprus laws of succession that allow only blood relatives to benefit. By creating a Family Trust today for Cyprus Property you could also make tax savings in capital gains, inheritance tax, IMPT and inheritance taxes on your death.

Add to your Will your wishes for Burial v Cremation and the type of funeral service you desire.

Look Forward – Plan Ahead Cyprus Laws of Succession takes control of your assets away from you on death. ProACT can offer help and guidance to protect family and property for loved ones. Asset Protection is about looking forward to secure loved ones while also making inheritance tax savings. ProACT expat experts offer tax saving for people living and working and investing abroad. Find out more at our website.

© Grapevine • September 2016

13

Get More for Your Money

by Natalie Collins

Selling a Property in Cyprus? Get More for Your Money with the Right Support Why Sell Now? Since the UK voted to leave the European Union in June’s EU Referendum, many EU nationals have been considering repatriating back to the United Kingdom. Even expats living outside the EU are likely to be considering repatriating in light of the Brexit vote due to the value of the Pound plummeting.

Because you can now get more Pounds for your foreign currency than you could earlier in the year, selling an overseas property is more lucrative.

Sterling’s value against the Euro, for example, has plummeted from around €1.31 to a low of €1.19 since the EU Referendum result while the EUR/GBP exchange rate has climbed from £0.76 to £0.86. Similarly, the Pound’s value against the US Dollar has dropped from $1.45 to around $1.31 while USD/ GBP has rallied from £0.67 to £0.77.

Regardless of where you are, selling a property abroad and converting the earnings into Pounds in the height of Brexit uncertainty could see you end up with a tidy profit. For example, if you’d had €300,000 to transfer back to the UK before the referendum you would have achieved £228,000 but that same €300,000 would be worth £258,000 after the result, £30,000 more.

How to Maximise the Return on your Currency Transfer There is another way to maximise the profit you get from transferring funds back to the UK from overseas – take a little time to look into the international money transfer provider you use.

While using your bank may seem like the simplest solution, banks rarely offer the most competitive exchange rates available and often charge a transfer fee for managing the transaction.

The result of this is that, you, the customer, could see your Pound-profit diminished somewhat.

If you want to make your money go further, consider using a professional

money transfer or brokering company – a company that, unlike banks, specialises specifically in currency transfers. As banks offer a wide variety of services their attention is often split and they rarely have a range of currency experts on hand to support their customers. However, money transfer companies offer competitive services in a number of areas that can benefit customers in several ways.

Variety of Transfer Options As well as doing away with transfer fees, and thus allowing the customer to keep more of their money, currency broking companies usually offer a wide variety of transfer options that can make the foreign exchange process far more convenient for the customer.

These include being able to make an immediate transfer with a ‘spot contract’, which allows the customer access to a highly competitive exchange rate on an on-the-spot transfer.

Other popular options include ‘forward contracts’ – particularly useful if you need to budget for a foreign property sale or purchase. With a forward contract customers are able to fix a rate for up to two years, meaning they’ll know exactly how much they’ll get for their transfer in advance while their funds are protected from adverse movements in the currency market.

Other possibilities include using a ‘limit order’ to target an exchange rate higher than the current market level or employing a ‘stop loss’ order to set a worst-case transfer rate. With both of these methods, your currency transfer is executed automatically as soon as the market moves to that level. You can even use them together in order to keep your transfer within a certain range.

Additionally, if you’ve got recurrent currency transfers to manage – paying mortgage payments or transferring a pension for example – you can automate and streamline your transfers with a Regular Overseas Payments (ROPs) plan. With a ROPs account transfers are conducted automatically on a data of your choosing at an excellent exchange rate and without transfer fees.

Is Your Money Safe with a Currency Broker?

If you need to make regular or one-off transfers of money between banks and countries, then go to GrapevineCyprus. com and check out the TorFX Currency Converter on our download issues page or the links page.

They make moving money around fast and simple.

For a more personal approach Call Natalie Collins Tel: +44 (0)1736 335234 Email: natalie.collins@torfx.com

When Moving Money Matters 14

© Grapevine • September 2016

Managing your international money transfers with a currency broker is just as safe and secure as using your bank.

Some currency brokers assign their customers dedicated Account Managers to look after all their foreign exchange requirements – providing a constant point of contact and an industry expert they can turn to for support and guidance whenever it’s needed.

For additional peace of mind, pick a currency transfer provider that’s authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), operates segregated client accounts and holds the highest credit rating.

When verifying a company’s credentials it’s also a good idea to check out online reviews and see what other customers have to say about the service they received.

The month since the UK voted to leave the EU may have caused panic in currency markets and triggered a Pound slump, but for those selling a foreign property and converting the funds into GBP, you really could get more for your money with the right support.

TorFX is the UK’s leading international money transfer provider with award-winning customer service.

To find out more about your options call Natalie Collins on +44(0)1736 335234 or request a call back by emailing natalie. collins@torfx.com

For Sale -deSituated in a quiet residential cul Exo sac on the escarpment above m fro ow thr Vrisi yet only a stone’s ng Paphos Town Hall, the Cyta Buildi of rt hea the and Makarios Avenue in Paphos. se A unique modern town hou ard designed and built by a local aw winning architect. rs Open plan design on three floo and e rac with an extensive roof ter the panoramic views to the airport in st. we east and the lighthouse in the Accommodation comprises:Ground floor: Multipurpose room/garage, bathroom, enclosed open atrium and storage areas.

First floor: Open plan kitchen and living room with large picture window to the panoramic view of Kato Paphos and the coast beyond.

Second floor: Large bedroom with bathroom.

Third floor: ter Roof terrace with electric and wa points.

Fully carpeted stairs throughout.

For sale with full title deeds at 170000 Euro.

For appointment to view and fully appreciate this unique property please telephone 99 580320

Investing in Uncertain Markets

by Mark Hollingsworth

Investors approach volatile markets in different ways. Some see opportunities in attempting to time the market, taking investment risk when they expect markets will rise and reducing risk by heading for cash when the market is likely to fall. This is a risky approach because there are no fool proof ways to detect market direction from one day to the next.

Human nature also means that we tend to have behavioral biases that make it difficult to make the right decision. The opportunity cost of not being invested can be high and we are prone to conservatism after sustaining losses.

A second approach is to take a longer-term view of investing, typically remaining invested and altering the asset allocation of a portfolio to reflect prevailing views and attitudes to risk. This is the approach we advocate and that we follow in advising our clients. But, when markets are volatile, investors do often struggle to take a long-term approach because it can mean putting up with short-term fluctuations in the value of your investments and even rebalancing your portfolio after losses.

Taking a long-term view – what history shows us Over short time periods the direction of markets can seem random and the return from one discrete period of time to the next can vary substantially. As an example, from 1900 to 2000 research into stock-market returns has shown that the annualised return from US equities after inflation was a healthy 6.7% even though the return in individual years was negative about a third of the time. More recent history shows a similar pattern too when looking at the annual returns from the FTSE All Share Index from 2000 to 2015.The worst year was 2008 when the market lost over 30%, while the best year was 2009 when the market gained nearly 30%. However if you held equities for any 5-year period between 2000 and 2015 the worst return you would have suffered was just under a 3% loss on an annualised basis while the best return was over 15% on an annualised basis. If you held the market over the entire 15 years then your return would have been 4% annualised, but because of compounding, you would have made just over 80% in total. This tells us that the longer you spend in the market the higher the chance of experiencing a positive return and the greater that return could be.

Missing out by attempting to time the market You could give yourself an even better chance by trying to time when you are in and when you are out of the market. However, over short time periods this is a dangerous strategy because the strongest performance can take place over a relatively small number of days. It is estimated that just 0.4% of trading days in the last 30 years accounted for 90% of returns. Taking the last 30 years of the FTSE All Share Index, the total return would have been a staggering 1,400%. But if you remove the 10 best days this falls dramatically to just 450%.

Summary When you invest for the long term, there is less likelihood of sustaining losses. Over a small number of trading days market moves can be large and can seem unpredictable, but over a larger number of days the average return will tend to be positive assuming that long-term returns from investing are also positive. Looking at our cautious and balanced investment strategies this year, clients that have remained invested throughout 2016 and ignored the turmoil of the markets shortly after the BREXIT vote are up between 4-7% to the end of July.

Mark Hollingsworth, Director, Hollingsworth International Financial Services Ltd Tel: +357 99066840, +356 21316298 e-mail: info@hollingsworth-int.com

Website: www.hollingsworth.eu.com

Authorised by the Malta Financial Services Authority to provide investment services, license IS/32457

16

Š Grapevine • September 2016

Helping your family get on the property ladder

by Mrs. Vivian Nagel, MCSI

A hot topic currently is the struggle many young people have getting onto the property ladder.

Over recent decades baby boomers and those that followed were able to secure their own properties at a young age at prices commensurate with salaries. But with property prices so high in many regions and salaries not rising anywhere near the same pace how do the young adults of today manage to buy a property?

Unless parents or grandparents give them a helping hand the majority will never have sufficient monies to meet the deposits required or to service the sizeable mortgages required to purchase property these days.

If you are thinking of helping your children, grand children or great grand children in this way but are not able or do not wish to give a large sum of your money, you will be interested to know that many of our clients have invested a small lump sum; thereby not giving up much of their own capital and then make more affordable regular contributions from surplus income each year.

The scheme is still in your name and you retain total control and rights to the investment. The intended beneficiary can be named in the event of your death.

If you have a high disposable income or find yourself with excess surplus income or indeed have excess capital which you would like to use to ease the burden on younger family/friends then an investment of this type is an ideal way to achieve this.

You can set up the investment with ₤, $ or €. The minimum set up amount is ₤10,000/ €15,000/$15,000 with minimum ad hoc additions of ₤1,000 p.a. or regular contributions of minimum is ₤300/€450/$450 per month, which are paid quarterly.

One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother

Just Joking

This is an excellent way of giving and provides the family member/s that will benefit with monies that can be used not only for that much needed deposit on property but for many other purchases such as car, university fees, gap year funds etc.

has several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast on her brunette head.

She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, “Why are some of your hairs white, Mom?” Her mother replied, “Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white.”

The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, “Momma, how come ALL of grandma’s hairs are white?”

There is no fixed term, the investment continues until you decide to close it or death., although early exit charges may apply in the first 5 years.

A wide range of international units trusts and mutual funds managed by well respected international fund managers is available to choose from to create the portfolio, this offers the investment the chance of growing over the years to hopefully provide more to the beneficiary.

If you would like to learn more please contact me.

Mrs. Vivian Nagel, MCSI Elgin AMC Ltd, Mobile 99579149 Fax: + 357 22 455626 Email: v.nagel@elginamc.com Website www.elginamc.com Elgin is a trade name of Numisma Capital Ltd which is authorised and regulated by CySEC (License Number 122/10) Opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not constitute financial advice in any way © Grapevine • September 2016

17

Recipes using Rice

by Cherry Dobbins

Coconut Rice

This makes a great accompaniment to chicken or pork.

150g brown rice pinch salt 1 tsp coconut oil 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds handful chopped fresh coriander leaves 1 tsp pumpkin seeds 1.

Into a pan pour 300 ml water and add the rice and salt. Bring to the boil and simmer until cooked, about 30 minutes or as instructed on the packet.

2.

Fluff the rice with a fork and stir through the coconut oil, sesame seeds and coriander leaves.

3.

Sprinkle with the pumpkin seeds and serve.

Fried Rice

A Good Housekeeping recipe Fresh beansprouts are difficult to find at the moment. Eden no longer seem to stock them but I have heard a rumour that Jackie Maa now sells Chinese products including fresh beansprouts. I substitute finely sliced cabbage and sometimes also mange tout.

225g long grain white rice Salt and pepper 75g beansprouts 1 -2 tbsp oil 1 carrot, peeled and coarsely grated 1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed 75g frozen peas 50g cooked and peeled prawns (optional) 4 tsp light soy sauce 4 – 6 spring onions, trimmed and thinly sliced 1 tsp sesame oil 1.

Cook the rice in plenty of boiling salted water until almost tender. Drain and rinse with boiling water and spread out on a tray to cool.

2.

Heat the oil in a wok or deep frying pan and add the carrot and garlic. Stir fry for 2 minutes.

Tomato Rice

A good accompaniment to meat and fish dishes.

225g rinsed Basmati rice 400g can chopped tomatoes 4 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 1.

Into a pan pour 200ml water and bring to the boil.

2.

Add the rice, tomatoes and juice and the dried tomatoes.

3.

Cover and simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.

Basic Rice Pilau 50g butter 225g long grain rice 750 ml chicken stock Salt and black pepper Generous knob of butter to serve 1.

Melt the 50g utter in a pan, add the rice and fry gently until translucent. It should take about 3 to 4 minutes.

2.

Add the stock and seasoning. Cover and leave over a very low heat for about 15 minutes until all the stock is absorbed and the rice is just tender.

3.

4.

18

Remove the lid and cover the surface of the rice with a clean tea towel. Cover again and leave to stand for 15 minutes. This will dry the rice.

Before serving fork through and add a knob of butter.

© Grapevine • September 2016

3.

4.

Add the peas and beansprouts and stir fry for 1 minute Add the rice and stir fry for a minute, and then add the prawns and soy sauce.

Stir fry for 2 minutes until the prawns are heated through.

5.

Check for seasoning and add the spring onions.

6.

Sprinkle with the sesame oil just before serving.

1.

Sauté the onion in the oil until softened.

2.

Add the rice, currants, pine nuts, parsley, mint and spices and half the lemon juice.

3.

Continue cooking over a low heat for 5 minutes.

4.

Halve the courgettes lengthways and scoop out some of the flesh to make boats.

5.

Place them in a frying pan so that they all sit tightly side by side.

6.

Fill them with the rice stuffing and then carefully pour the boiling water into the pan between the courgettes so that the water comes to just below the stuffing. Add the remaining lemon juice, sugar and some salt to the water.

7.

Cover and simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes, basting the filling with the water occasionally.

8.

The courgettes are ready when the rice is al dente and almost all the juices have evaporated.

9.

Allow to cool completely before refrigerating. Take out of the fridge half an hour before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.

Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Stuffed Courgettes

Every British family has their own recipe for this and trifle. Many now are enriched with cream or eggs. This is an old fashioned, simple recipe.

1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 tbsp olive oil 110g short grain rice 2 tbsp currants 1 tbsp pine nuts 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley plus extra to garnish ½ tsp dried mint ½ tsp ground allspice ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cloves 3 tbsp lemon juice 3 medium sized courgettes 180 ml boiling water 1 ½ tbsp sugar Salt and black pepper

3 tbsp short grain rice 2 level tbsp caster sugar 600ml full cream milk knob butter freshly grated nutmeg

From ‘Plenty’ by Yotam Ottolenghi. He recommends serving them cold, just above fridge temperature with goat’s yoghurt.

1.

Turn oven to 150°C. Butter a 900ml ovenproof dish

2.

Wash the rice and put in the dish.

3.

Pour over the milk and dot with the butter. Grate over plenty of nutmeg.

4.

Bake in the oven for 2 hours. Stir after the first half hour.

Indian Chinese or Chinese Indian?

by Cherry Dobbins

As a student I lived in Liverpool and learnt to love the ‘Chinese chippy’ that curiously served a curry sauce on chips along with battered fish and a selection of Chinese dishes. So, when I saw a restaurant with the signs ‘Indian’ and ‘Chinese’ outside it was inevitable that I would have to venture inside for a meal, despite the fact that I generally abhor restaurants advertising mixed cuisines.

Four of us went on the Saturday night of the holiday weekend. Probably not the best night of the year to try somewhere new. It was packed with people and quite noisy making for a traditional Chinese restaurant atmosphere. I tend to feel Indian restaurants are calmer. Perhaps it was the atmosphere that made all four of us decide to eat a Chinese meal. This made it much easier as we could choose dishes for sharing.

The menu is divided into Chinese and Indian sections with a good selection of traditionally popular dishes in each section. After some discussion with the waiter regarding size we started with four spring rolls at €2,50 each.

They were just what you would expect a spring roll to be.

For the main course we chose a tasty dish of pork with ginger and onion (€9,50), sesame king prawns (€14,80), a dish of nicely sautéed broccoli (€4,50) and a dish of garlic spinach (€4,50). The Chinese always seem to get this dish just right, with garlicky wilted leaves rather than the mush that

I produce. I really must discover the secret of their success.

We also had half a duck with pancakes (21,90) served with the customary shredded spring onion and cucumber. We were short of pancakes very quickly but when asked for more the waiter produced them incredibly quickly.

During the meal we drank two bottles of my favourite white wine, Petritis from the Kyperounda winery in the Troodos Mountains at €17,90 a bottle. We also wanted sparkling water and so had to have 3 small bottles of Perrier water at €3,25 a bottle. For pudding we drank Irish coffees at €5,75 each.

I forgot to ask whether it was Chinese chefs cooking Indian food, Indian chefs cooking Chinese or a split kitchen. After all that alcohol it did not seem to matter.

The Gold Temple Indian and Chinese restaurant is on the Coral Bay ‘strip’, at the far end on the left, next door to the Blazing Saddles Bar. It used to be The Elephant restaurant. The telephone number is 26 623777.

Rice is Nice

by Cherry Dobbins

Rice is the seed of the grass Orya Sativa. It has a history in China and India going back possibly as far as 5,000 years BC. It cannot grow in many countries of the world as it is climate dictated, requiring very heavy rain in the early days followed by a long season of uninterrupted hot dry weather.

Brown rice or wholegrain rice

There are 40,000 varieties of cultivated rice grown in the world at present and the number is increasing as researchers seek to improve the nutritional value and so alleviate deficiencies in poorer countries that rely heavily on rice as part of the diet. Your average long grain rice, when cooked, offers some protein, carbohydrate, mostly as starch but with a trace of sugar and dietary fibre. It is also a source of vitamin B6, potassium, calcium, iron and magnesium. Researchers hope to fortify it with vitamin A, increased iron, zinc and folic acid. At present it is considered too difficult to increase the amount of protein that is contained.

This is often called ‘The Prince of Rice’. It is very long and slender and grown in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains in India. Basmati has a fragrant flavour and aroma and the grains separate on cooking to give a fluffy texture.

Long grain/ all purpose/ regular rice

Much of this comes from the U.S.A. but Italy, Spain, Surinam, Guyana and Thailand also export significant amounts. The slim grain is 4 to 5 times as long as it is wide and it is has been milled to remove the husk and bran layers. It has a subtle flavour and on cooking the grains should separate to give a fluffy effect. It is the rice used for Chinese cuisine.

Easy cook or parboiled long grain rice

This rice is steamed under pressure before milling which hardens the grain and reduces the possibility of over cooking. Because of this it retains more of the vitamin and mineral content that is contained in the outer layers. It also has a fuller flavour. When raw it is more golden in colour but turns white on cooking. It can be used in all dishes calling for regular long grain rice and is very good for rice salads.

Patna rice

Once, most rice eaten in the world came from India. Patna is the district in India where much of this rice came from.

Brown rice undergoes minimal milling to remove only the husk. Because of this it retains much more of the vitamins and minerals. It has a nutty flavour and a chewier texture than regular rice. It also takes longer to cook.

Basmati rice

Jasmine or Thai fragrant rice

This is also aromatic although not quite so much so as Basmati. It originates from Thailand and when cooked it has a soft and slightly sticky texture. It is used with foods from China and S.E. Asia.

Japonica rice

This is a medium grain rice that comes from Japan and California. Colours include red, brown and black. When cooked it is clingy, moist and firm. It is used mostly in Japanese and Caribbean cookery.

Arborio rice

This is a short grain, round rice that is named after the town of Arborio in the Po Valley of Italy – the main growing region. When cooked it has a unique firm, creamy and chewy texture due to the high starch content.

Because of this it blends well with other flavours and is the rice used to make risotto.

Pudding or round grain rice

This is a term rarely used outside the UK. It refers to a short grain rice that is soft and creamy and used to make the British rice pudding. It is sometimes Arborio rice that has been renamed for the British market.

Wild rice

Not a true rice as it comes from a totally different grass seed of the Zizania genus. It is cultivated in the great Lakes region of Canada and is a long, narrow, black grain that takes a long time to cook. It is also more expensive than rice and is often cooked separately and then added to normal rice to give a variety of texture and flavour. © Grapevine • September 2016 19

Stockholm Syndrome

by Dr Vasilios Silivistris, DipComp DipSup MBACP BA MA FRSH PhD

The psychological tendency of a hostage to bond, identify, or sympathise with his or her captor/s.

In my clinical practice, some of the most surprised and shocked clients are those who have been involved in controlling/abusive relationships.

When the relationship ends, they offer comments such as:“I know what he’s done to me, but I still love him”, “I don’t know why, but I want him back”, or “I know it sounds crazy, but I miss her”.

Recently I have heard, “This doesn’t make sense, he’s got a new girlfriend and he’s abusing her too…but I’m jealous!”

Friends/relatives are even more amazed and shocked when they hear these comments or witness their loved one returning to an abusive relationship.

While the situation does not make sense from a social standpoint, does it make sense from a psychological viewpoint?

The answer is, Yes! On August 23rd, 1973 two machine-gun carrying criminals entered a bank in Stockholm, Sweden. Blasting their guns, one prison escapee named Jan-Erik Olsson announced to the terrified bank employees “The party has just begun!” The two bank robbers held four hostages, three women and one man, for the next 131 hours. The hostages were strapped with dynamite and held in a bank vault until finally rescued on August 28th.

After their rescue, the hostages exhibited a shocking attitude considering they were threatened, abused, and feared for their lives for over five days.

In their media interviews, it was clear that they supported their captors and actually feared law enforcement personnel who came to their rescue. The hostages had begun to feel the captors were actually protecting them from the police. One woman later became engaged to one of the criminals and another developed a legal defence fund to aid in their criminal defence fees.

Clearly, the hostages had “bonded” emotionally with their captors.

While the psychological condition in hostage situations became known as

“Stockholm Syndrome” due to the publicity, the emotional “bonding” with captors was a familiar story in psychology.

It had been recognised many years before and was found in studies of other hostages, prisoner, or abusive situations such as: •

Abused Children

•

Battered/Abused Women

•

Cult Members

•

Incest Victims

•

Criminal Hostage Situations

•

Controlling/Intimidating Relationships

The “Stockholm Syndrome” reaction in hostage and/or abuse situations is so well recognised at this time that police hostage negotiators no longer view it as unusual.

In fact, it is often encouraged in crime situations as it improves the chances for survival of the hostages. On the downside, it also assures that the hostages experiencing “Stockholm Syndrome” will not be very cooperative during rescue or criminal prosecution. Local law enforcement personnel have long recognised this syndrome with battered women who fail to press charges, bail their battering husband/boyfriend out of jail, and even physically attack police officers when they arrive to rescue them from a violent assault.

Stockholm Syndrome (SS) can also be found in family, romantic, and interpersonal relationships. The abuser may be a husband/wife, boyfriend/ girlfriend, father/mother, or any other role in which the abuser is in a position of control or authority.

Dr Vasilios Silivistris is a UK trained Psychotherapist and Counselling practitioner. Tel: 99 109177. Email: v.silivistris@btinternet.com

For every presciption frame we are offering free sunglasses or get 40% OFF New Frames Only at our shop in the old town.

© Grapevine • September 2016

In the final analysis, emotionally bonding with an abuser is actually a strategy for survival for victims of abuse and intimidation.

Elean Opticians in Makarios Ave is open 9am - 1pm.

There is access at the back of the shop.

Special Offer - 6 contact lenses 25 Euro

20

Candida’s Role in Poor Health

by Caroline Carter

Do you crave sweets and sugary items? Are you a closet cookie monster?

If so, you may unknowingly harbour yeasts that are gobbling up your sugars before you can use them. These hidden gremlins in the gut give the tell-tell signs of bloating and indigestion after meals, especially when you must let out your belt or plan on wearing looser clothing that you used to for any particular meal.

Of all the parasites I have come across during my 23+ years of practicing, none hold a candle to Candida albicans and the secret damage that yeasts do.

Even though Candida can cause symptoms that mimic more diseases than any other uninvited guests, it is often still presumed to be a normal part of our intestinal flora.

Although Candida albicans is one of the most common type of yeast we normally house in our intestines, if the delicate balance between Candida and the other bugs is tipped, Candida grows rampantly, which can produce over one hundred different symptoms, beginning with the gut.

Candida can mimic any symptom Once Candida take over the gut, it inflames the gut wall provoking much gas, bloating, indigestion, alternating diarrheal and constipation, or pain that you may suffer.

If the yeast inflames the lower oesophagus or stomach, you have burning and heartburn.

If the lining of the small intestine is inflamed, carrier or transport proteins are damaged making it more difficult for the gut to absorb vitamins and minerals – with mysterious fatigue and new infections the possible result.

Now with the gut inflamed putrefactive toxins from the bowel leak into the bloodstream, promoting aches and pains all over as well as damaging local nerves in the gut, which lead to constipation.

Because the inflamed gut can leak large food particles that the immune system has never encountered before, an antibody attack is mounted against them. Now the innocent host of Candida (you) has allergies to all sort of

foods that never bothered you before Food allergies are only the beginning. As Candida inflames the gut wall where half the body’s detoxification system lies, you may find yourself reacting to perfumes, smoke, cleansers, and chemicals in the environment with runny noses, brain fog, depression, fatigue, dizziness or pains all over.

Common common candida overgrowth symptoms Constipation IBS Unnatural fatigue Food allergies Low blood sugar levels Sugar and carbohydrate craving Unable to lose weight For a full list of symptoms see our website.

Candida fallacy: Only women suffer with Candida – As many men suffer with Candid as women.

Candida fallacy: Candida is a sexually transmitted disease. Candida is an infection that is caused by a yeast fungus. It is not a sexually transmitted infection but can sometimes develop after you have had sex.

While Candida is often a cause of prolonged misery, especially when a person is unaware that they are harbouring it, Candida, is not overly difficult to reverse with the correct program. Experience has taught me that only a healthy body, not any drug or supplement can overcome Candida.

At Healthy Healing we have been successfully reversing Candida for many years with our diet and organ cleansing protocol. Although the regime is strict, those who have followed it through are now free of symptoms and living a normal and active lifestyle.

Caroline Carter, CAM Practitioner. 977889931. www.healthyhealingcy.com Consultations and therapy now available in Limassol and Paphos.

Archangel Michael Charabanc Tours A day out in Famagusta.

And the next coach leaving………… will be from Debenhams Car Park at 8.00am on the 11th October. There is plenty of parking around the pick-up area, so leave the car at there, let someone else do the driving and have a lovely day out!

This trip will take you to the ancient walled city of Famagusta, where there are many amazing churches and also the Othello Tower, where ‘reputedly’ Othello of Shakespeare fame lived. Take time to have lunch in one of the many eateries in the main square.

There is also included in the program a visit to St Barnabas Monastery nearby at the area known as Salamis.

Expected time of departure from Famagusta will be 4pm and arrival back in Paphos at 7pm.

Please note you will need to bring passports and lunch is not included in the price of €30.

There will be a raffle on board the coach to help with the fundraising.

Proceeds from this trip will be used to purchase outside patio furniture for each of the patients rooms at the Archangel Michael Hospice, at present none are available. So not only will you have a lovely day out, but also do something definite in helping the Archangel Michael Hospice.

For reservations and further information, please contact MONA 99494140 or LINDA 99562387

© Grapevine • September 2016

21

By a Mile !

by Alice Stanley

The now famous “Monthly Mugs” sponsored by Mike, our deputy RCS of www.safarisports.com are getting to be as sought after as an Olympic Gold. Most recent winners were Robin Marsh and Cathy Lewis in their Kestrel Dinghy “Laissez Faire”. My dictionary tells me that laissez faire means “..... leaving things to take their own course”. Clearly Robin and Cathy took other courses and left all the other boats for dead.

Congratulations Robin and Cathy.

Meanwhile the old sea dogs on the beach sucking on their pipes would explain that it was weight, or lack of it, that gave Robin and Cathy a considerable advantage. One needs only to look at the photograph to see that our winners together would hardly weigh much more than one of the two sailors on either side! (Come on now Mike and John our RCS did I (moi) ever say that you were a couple of overweights?).

Swiftly on to another simple physics lesson. A dinghy is slowed down by the friction of water passing over the surface of the hull. Peter Dawe our eponymous Regatta Photography Boat Skipper tells me that his power boat rarely does more than 8 mpg. Tell that to VW. So two heavy persons in a dinghy sets it much deeper in the water thereby increasing the surface area on which friction takes place. Conversely with a lighter crew the dinghy sits much higher in the water. And so it goes faster.

However this is such a great club and Cathy is such a generous and modest lady that to give all the other dinghies a chance she explained in confidence that she and Robin sailed with half a ton of lead weight in the scuppers - and still won. Amazing. Sailing is such fun.

Hey everyone, don’t forget to make a note of the date for our Autumn Regatta Friday to Sunday 7 - 9 October 2016 at Agios Georgios. As part of this Regatta we will be hosting “The European Kestrel Open”. Several top sailors, including the National Champion Stuart Murdock will be joining us. This really is a not to be missed event. And it is FREE. www. pisc.com.cy will give you lots more information.

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Robin and Cathy between two big book ends by .Liz Unwin.

Maggie’s Beauty Spot: Keep Cool By The Pool We are lucky to have constant sun; but if you are jetting off somewhere else fabulously hot and glamorous this holiday season then you’ve no doubt been giving your holiday wardrobe some careful consideration.

What to wear poolside can be a tricky style dilemma for some as we’re not used to being so exposed.

Have no fear! We’re here with some expert advice to ensure you select the right swimwear for your body shape so you can kick back in confidence on your holiday.

IF YOU’RE ATHLETIC AND SLIM... with a small bust and straight body shape, then you should aim to create the illusion of curves with your swimwear.

Have fun with patterns, frills and embellishments on your top half to fill out your bust; ties or details at the hips will balance out proportions and emphasise your slim waist!

IF YOU’RE CURVY... and have a fabulous bust, it’s important to have adequate support built into your swimwear to ensure you’re comfortable.

A solid block of colour will be most flattering, particularly a central panel with a lighter shade on the outside, which will have a slimming effect. If patterns are your thing, opt for some fabulous florals! Retro style swimsuits (as seen on the likes of Marilyn Monroe) will look amazing on you!

REMEMBER TO ACCESSORISE Just because you’re in holiday mode doesn’t mean you should forget to complete your look with some well chosen accessories!

A dramatic sun hat, oversized sunglasses, embellished beach bag or vibrant

manicure/pedicure will all complete your poolside look. Now all you need is a cooling cocktail!

Happy Holidays!

Treat yourself to a colour consultation - 10% off for Grapevine readers.

Vouchers are available for special occasions.

For more information contact Maggie Wright, Colour Me Beautiful, on 99318477 maggiecmb@ yahoo.co.uk www. cmbcyprus.com

© Grapevine • September 2016

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The Last Laugh

by David Waite

Walking past the shops with my Mum in the Cheshire village where I lived as a child, I was suddenly stung by a wasp. We were only a few minutes away from the chemist’s shop, so we hurried there in order that the painful sting could be dealt with. Mum quickly explained to him what had happened, and so, with a bottle of lotion and a wad of cotton wool at the ready he said to me, in a kindly voice

‘Where did you get stung David?’

Wondering why the location was important I said ‘Outside Barclays Bank’.

The laughter that followed confused me even more, but in that moment I learnt that a qwerky answer to a normal question can make people laugh, and even at the tender age of eight I had seen enough miserable people to know that giving people a reason to laugh was a good thing.

Over the years I have discovered that there are various reasons why people laugh. Sometimes it’s through a situation that I have just described, at other times people laugh through embarrassment or in ridicule of someone, or - best of all - when something unbelievably wonderful happens which causes their heart to spill over with joy.

Laughter is more than just a sound -- it’s a whole body experience. 15 facial muscles contract, our breathing becomes irregular as we half-close our larynx, and even our tear ducts can become activated. The muscles throughout our body contract, as laughter spreads from our face, through our respiratory system, and eventually through the entire body.

People usually laugh because they’re happy, but laughter also has the power to make us happy. Laughter releases endorphins, or neurotransmitters that have similar effects as drugs like morphine, which are responsible for feelings of euphoria.

Within our immune system, laughter increases the amount of T cells, which are the body’s natural defense against viruses, cancer cells, and other disease-causing cells. Levels of B cells, which make disease-destroying antibodies, and levels of Immunoglobins A, G, and M, which help fight infection, all rise. Laughter boosts the immune system, and so it’s safe to assume that laughter makes us healthier.

Some researchers even suggest that laughing 100 times gives you the same workout as 15 minutes on an exercise bike! Laughing works the cardiovascular system and lowers blood pressure, so it’s like a cardio workout. It also increases memory and cognitive functioning.

The average adult laughs only 17 times a day. Many people believe laughter is contagious, and one person laughing can get others into a fit. If you’re feeling sick, lacking energy, or stressed, try a few rounds of laughter.

It’s the medicine you don’t need a doctor to prescribe or a fancy exercise machine to complete.

Abraham’s wife Sarah laughed in unbelief when she heard the three mysterious strangers who had been sent from God tell her husband that she would have a son – but it happened, even though she was 90 years of age!

Out of fear, Sarah denied laughing, but it is interesting to note that when they came to give a name to this remarkable child they called him Isaac, which means ‘one who makes me laugh’ or ‘laughter’!

The Bible also tells us that God laughs. He laughs in derision at those who try to thwart His plans, and those who deny that He exists, when the evidence of His creation is all around us to see. And those who have put their trust in Him will have the last laugh. Will you be with them.

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Paphos Classic Vehicle Club Paphos Classic Vehicle Club is a group of people who either own or appreciate classic vehicles, and enjoy getting together, using and discussing them. We usually hold our monthly Socials at the Ayios Epiphanios Taverna in Anarita on the third Saturday of the month at 15.00 Not all members actually own a classic vehicle, and some that do are in the process of restoring them and use their ‘modern’ vehicles in the meantime.

August is traditionally a quiet month for the club with members on holiday or returning to the U.K.to escape from the heat for a few weeks, despite this our monthly Classic Breakfast meeting at the Tea 4 Two restaurant saw a great crowd of members some of whom had not been before plus a couple new to the island who brought along their classic Alpha Spider for us to admire.

Our next big event is the Episkopi Fete at Happy Valley which this year is on the 24th September, we will have our vehicles on display along with many various activities, stalls and items of interest for all the family.

If you wish to join the club you can do so at this event, come along a have a great day out ,our photo this month is from a previous Episkopi Display.

Our website contains news .photo`s and up to date information on our activities.

Happy Motoring.

Contact us on e-mail: paphosclassicvehicleclub@gmail.com Phone: 99046466 Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Paphclassics Website: www.paphosclassicvehicleclub.weebly.com for regular updates and details of events.

© Grapevine • September 2016

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CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES MOBILE AUTO ENGINEER British trained with over 35 years experience. Any vehicle catered for.

Call any time 99 802067. See Main advert for more details.

MARK The CARPENTER City & Guilds, also advanced craft, 32 yrs experience, kitchens, storage solutions, suspended ceilings, bedrooms, pergolas, fencing, decking, sound/heat insulation.

All bespoke joinery. Portfolio/ references. All workmanship guaranteed. Free quotes.

Mark: 96 395309 or email cypruscarpenter@yahoo.co.uk FRIENDLY ENGLISH GARDENER Friendly, reliable Englishman with 20 years gardening experience & City & Guilds qualifications, certificates & references available. Weekly/ fortnightly/as required. For a free quotation & consultation call Peter 99 137874 or PJ 96 234965 or check us out at www.thepaphosgardeners.com THE COMPLETE PROPERTY SOLUTION Madock Ltd, All aspects of house refurbishment: kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. Building works including, electrics, plumbing (including central heating), carpentry, plastering, painting, tiling roofing and mains sewerage connection. All work undertaken by our team of qualified tradesmen. No job too small. Call Tony on 99 009665 for a free, no obligation quote.

EXPERIENCED UPHOLSTERER Soft furnishings, curtains, alterations, garden furniture, loose covers, canopies, large selection of quality fabrics & canvas available.

For free quotation ring Busy Bees on 99 229778.

SAM’S DECORATIONS Professional plasterers and painters.

Alterations, tiling, stonework, graffiadou, roofs and ceiling repairs, plasterboard works, tape and joining and much more. Please don’t hesitate to call Sam for your free quote. Tel 96 330553 or 99 262147.

ALPHA CARPENTRY & JOINERY Fully qualified carpenters, custom made joinery i.e. storage solutions.

Radiator cabinets with wide range of grills. All types of fencing & gates, pergolas, carports, wooden or composite decking. Plasterboard partitions & suspended ceilings.

References available & all workmanship fully guaranteed. For all your woodworking needs with free quotes please call Mark 96 395309 or Rab 96 845598. email: alphacarpentrycyprus@yahoo.com

ATOM EXTERMINATORS LTD Pest Control, Termites, Woodworm, Rodents, Fleas etc. Members of British Pest Control Association, Royal Society of Health U.K. Licensed by Ministry of Agriculture (License n.9) Tel: 26 220336, 99637193.

MARTYN THE ELECTRICIAN British electrician available for all electrical work big or small, fully qualified City & Guilds 236/2391 & NICEIC level. Extra sockets, water heaters, lights, installation work, testing, inspection and fault finding. Please call Martyn on tel 96 558321. Paphos, Peyia & Polis areas. 24-hour call out. For further info please visit www.electriciancyprus.com AT YOUR SERVICE’ - COMPLETE MAINTENANCE For all you property requirements, Specialist Painters and Decorators, Roof repairs, Drainage/Damp solutions, Balcony repairs, Patios, Double Glazing & Shutters, Fencing, Pergolas. Free quotation. Excellent prices, over 15 years experience.

Please call 99112055 Email: atyourservice@cytanet.com.cy Web: www.cmscyprus.net WANTED LEAVING CYPRUS??

Cars bought for Cash 99 315649.

HELP I need a new home. My master is no longer able to look after me. I am an aged (aprox. 8-9 years old) golden Labrador. Currently I live in Mandria.

I am very loving. I get on well with other dogs, but unfortunately not so well with cats! Please phone 99 580320 if you can help me FOR SALE Unique Town House Paphos Town Hall Area. 3 floors plus Roof recreation area. 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, 1 multipurpose room, living room & kitchen, decked back yard. Stunning panoramic views.

170,000 Euro with title deeds. Viewing by appointment only. Strictly no agents.

Tel: 99 580320

Need extra Money?

Want to work for Grapevine Magazine selling advertising.

Flexible hours to suit YOU. Phone 26 819167

To advertise on classifieds section, please send your advert clearly written, including € 10 for 30 words inclusive of VAT. Extra words are chargeable at € 0.25 each. Carefully count the number of words and decide how many insertions you require. Payment must be included with order. Email us on grapevine@cytanet. com.cy or post your advert to PO Box 62068, Paphos, 8060 or call direct to our office at 26819167, 24a Marias Loizidou, Paphos, 8047.

Deadline -15th of the preceding month.

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Coming-up Events @ Paphiakos Charity Fashion Show Wednesday 28th September 2016, between 10am and 2pm.

You are invited to the Paphiakos Charity Fashion Show organised by our amazing volunteer Marlene in collaboration with Paphiakos& CCP Animal Welfare at Saint Giorgio’s Restaurant & Bar in Chloraka (opposite Saint George Hotel)! A great opportunity to support your favourite organisation by attending a classy fashion show! The best clothing items from all our charity shops will be on display, showcased by volunteer models and then lots more available to purchase! Also available from our charity shops: fashion jewellery, accessories such as hats, scarfs, handbags, shoes and more! There will be food & drink available and entry is €3 payable on the door. Finally, if your passion is photography and you want to help us have some great pics from this event, again, please e-mail oana@cyprusanimalwelfare.com. Hope to see you all at this mega fashion show!

Fundraising Event for Paphiakos at Sea Caves - For the second year in a row, our wonderful volunteer Christina and her friends

are hosting another amazing fundraising event at the breath taking Sea Caves! Wednesday 5th October 2016, starting 5:30pm, you are welcome to bring friends and family to this beautiful private residence (address will be given upon purchase of tickets), whose owners have kindly agreed to hosting the event, to spend an evening of fun and fab food! Until 9:30pm, you can enjoy a delicious cold buffet, have a boogie on the fab music played by Terry Taylor and the Arizona Band and generously support the raffle with great prizes! There will be a bar available of course, and tickets at €12 can be purchased by calling or texting Christina at 99011168 or from Paphiakos. We will be there to enjoy this fabulous evening around a huge pool, with great music, to-die-for food, but evidently to support Paphiakos! We hope to see you there too!

Christmas Shopping Trip to Nicosia – Another year, another shopping trip in preparation of Christmas! Date: Thursday 17th November 2016. Departure time: 7:45am from the Paphiakos T-Rooms. Pick-up at Rantzo in Pissouri around 8:15am. First stop for refreshments at Choirokoitia. Then, SHOPPING TIME! Marks & Spencer Strovolos, then drop-off as close to Ledra Street as possible for those who want to enjoy the Old Town of Nicosia, and then it’s IKEA here we come! Shop until you drop in IKEA and Mall of Cyprus for 4 hours if not more! Have lunch, then a fab coffee in one of the many coffee shops, have a look round the shops and get those presents sorted for Christmas for all the family and friends and yourself too! Return to Paphos is scheduled around 6:30pm. Tickets are €19 and you can get them by calling or texting 99753217.

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© Grapevine • September 2016