Islandconnections Edition 590

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1984 - 2009

Ye Ex ars cel of len ce

The Canary Island’s biggest fortnightly English newspaper read by thousands of tourists & residents Edition # 590 / 8th - 22nd May 2009 / 1.80€ at Newsagents / www.islandconnections.eu / www.newscanarias.net

Canary Islands

Swine flu Southern hospital censure

As we go to press a second suspected case of Swine Flu is being investigated in the Canary Islands.

If you think you have been infected the advice continues to be to avoid contact with other people and visit your doctor immediately.

If you are on holiday and suspect you have contracted the virus, go to your nearest health care provider.

MAYOR CRITICISES CANARIAN GOVERNMENT FOR SOUTHERN HOSPITAL DELAY

A

rona’s mayor made good use of a protocol visit to the hospital and social health centre for harsh words of criticism over the delay in the plans for the new hospital in the south.

José Alberto González Reverón reminded all those present that the hospital project has been paralysed now for two years and called it a “disgrace”, claiming it showed, “a lack of respect for the people of the south”.

His statement came like a slap in the face to other island and Canarian politicians present who seemed to be busy congratulating themselves and each other on the progress of the social health centre and completely ignoring the paralysis of the work on the much needed hospital.

Indeed the Tenerife councillor for social welfare, Cristina Válido, was confidently talking about advancing the end of the work on the social health centre to the end of 2010

Benefit Cheats CRACKING DOWN on ex-pat fraudsters Page 6

Concert

Sun Live MEET THE PEOPLE who are bringing Rod Stewart to Tenerife Page 3 (L-R) Local, island and regional politicians at the southern hospital site

rather than April 2011 which was the projected date and the one still maintained by the architect responsible.

She failed to mention that the hospital has been a long term demand of the South,

CD Tenerife was finally proposed by the Cabildo in 1999 and was supposed to be finished before the elections in 2007. Given those details, a paralysed hospital and a social health centre open next year can

hardly be called advancement. Válido put forward the usual excuse that the project was delayed because of changes in the plans to improve the hospital facilities, changes which were

included in the original demands of the southern councils and health specialists but were only included in the proposals in 2007.

Continued on page 2

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Canary Islands

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

SOUTHERN HOSPITAL CENSURE

Project delays (Continued from front page)

...Work had already begun on the complex comprising the hospital, an associated centre for the long-term and chronically ill and a residential and day centre for the handicapped.

The inclusion of services such as a deliver y room and physiotherapy meant that the whole project was paralysed. In the end it was decided to separate the hospital project out so that work on the rest could continue and the 250 beds in the social health centre for

the long-term and chronically ill should be finished by early 2011. However the hospital project still remains on the drawing board and seems no further forward, thus the mayor’s outburst.

All Válido would commit herself to is that the project should be awarded to a contractor before the end of the year.

The Canarian Minister for social welfare, Inés Rojas, who spoke before the mayor, limited herself to describing the project,

Bikini beauties

Cl ic k! !!

Pippa Woods, the winner of the recent Hooters Bikini Contest 2009,will now represent Spain in the annual contest to be held in Miami on June 20 for the Miss Hooters International 2009 crown.

Welcome Luca Luca James Montague was born on Wednesday the 29th of April 2009 weighing four kilos. Congratulations to proud parents Paul and Liz and brother Leon.

without going into details about the problems or delays. Ricardo Melchior, Tenerife’s president, spoke immediately after González Reverón and was clearly uncomfortable. He underlined that the responsibility belonged to the Canarian Government, but claimed that the island council were exerting, “weekly pressure” on the Government to get a move on. “Every week we gain will be a great victory,” he remarked, insisting that the island council

were like a Presa Canaria (a local breed of dog) on this subject, meaning that they’d got their teeth into the matter and would not let go. He assured the group that they were asking the Government to, “speed up the paperwork as much as possible”. Melchior spoke

of the historic debt owed to the people of the south as the economic motor of the island and the ridiculous situation that they faced of such a large population sited so far away from, “a hospital with full facilities”. However he affirmed that with the opening of the renovated old

Military Hospital in Santa Cruz and the hospital in the north before the end of the year, as well as the social health centre in the south and previous increases in capacity, the number of beds available in the island will have quadrupled between 2005 and 2010.

One fur ther interesting item was provided by José Ángel Domínguez, the architect in charge of the project. He informed the gathering that a large plot of land for a possible future extension had already been acquired adjoining the building site. A move which seems to indicate that the non-starting hospital looks already too small for projected future needs.

INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF ASTRONOMY

Reach for the stars There has been an excellent response to the regional Canarian government’s international photography competition, with the sky as the subject, details of which we published in our first edition of the year.

2009 has been named by UNESCO as International Year of Astronomy, to help “citizens of the world to rediscover their place in the Universe through the day- and night-time sky, and thereby engage a personal sense of wonder and discovery,” and this competition organised

by Septenio, a governmental science and culture body, is

© ISLAND CONNECTIONS NEWSPAPER Is published and printed fortnightly by ISLAND CONNECTIONS S.L. Adverts, texts, photos or other parts of this publication are property of Circulation the publishers. They may not be used or reproduced, stored in a retrieval controlled by: system or transmitted in any other form or means without the prior Distribución Gratuita written permission of the publishers. This newspaper cannot be held responsible for the contents of articles supplied by our contributors or Publisher & Proprietor advertisers claims. The publisher reserves the right to refuse to publish Tina Straub, Joe Schacher adverts, texts or advertising features. Advertisements once contracted Island Connections S.L. cannot be cancelled and have to be paid in full. The publishers can not C.I.F: B-38748315 Printed by Artes Gráficas del Atlántico S.A. be held responsible for variation on colour printed in this newspaper.

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part of the overall celebration of the year. Open to anyone from anywhere, professional or amateur, over 400 entries were received from all parts of Spain as well as the rest of Europe, the Americas and Asia. Each entrant submitted up to five images, (there was a very flexible approach to the subject as long as the sky in some form was the integral theme, with airpor ts and air routes and air transport photographed) in a variety of formats.

Judging is now taking place – the jury is composed of professionals in related fields – and the winners will be announced on July 3rd.

There will be prizes of

Managing Director

Joe Schacher director@ic-news.com Editor

Clio O’Flynn Commercial Director

Henry Cruz henrycruz@ic-news.com Head Office Tenerife C/ Francisco Feo Rodríguez,6º Las Chafiras 38620.

San Miguel de Abona.

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain.

2009, dedicated to the skies

€5,000 and €4,000 for best series and best image, with awards of €3,000 and €2,000 for runner-up in each category, and the winning images along with a selection of other entries will be part of a travelling exhibition to be shown first at the Centro de Arte La Recova in Santa Cruz. Other

ongoing world wide events to celebrate the International Year of Astronomy include the support and promotion of women in astronomy, the preser vation of dark-sky sites around the world and educating and explaining the workings of the universe to millions.

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ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

G

aspare Bertolucci, Dario Morra, Higenio Guerra, Jordi Esplugas, Walter Novelli, Marc Fitzerman and José Pardal each have their own businesses but joined together in this project to cover what they saw as a gap in the leisure of fer of the island which they believe put Tenerife at a disadvantage in comparison with other important tourist destinations in the world.

There were literally thousands of meetings between all sectors of business, tourism and administrations. Putting together a str ucture and the contacts necessar y to bring top world class stars to the island on a regular and permanent basis was not an overnight operation.

However in the end they succeeded and the first result was the Elton John concert last January which was so enjoyed by all, including the artist, who doesn’t hesitate to say so to all and sundry and also praises south Tenerife as a place to gig.

Whilst the Golf Costa Adeje grounds proved to be a spectacular venue for the concert, there were teething problems. These were mostly because the vast numbers of people who turned up were far in excess of those expected and that the Spanish concert-goers are not used to events starting bang on time. Close note was taken of the problems and seating, parking, traffic and speed of access will all be improved for the second concert on May 16th with the amazing Rod Stewart.

The amount of public funding support they have been given has been disappointing and the group believe that the Canarian administrations don’t understand the contribution that the concerts bring to the Canarian visitors and residents of all nationalities, or value their courage in presenting a concert in May, traditionally a difficult month for the tourist sector, specifically to boost the number of visitors.

As Jordi pointed out, something has to be done to bring in more tourists in the slow months to palliate the seasonal nature of the business.

For the first time this year we are seeing a mirror of events in the Spanish peninsula and the Balearic Islands where businesses close for a number of months a year. The effect on the Canarian economy if this trend continues will be disastrous and a, “failure of the Canarian Government”, who despite knowing of this project for over two years are still not offering their full support or even the same level of suppor t given to comparable projects. They feel that something similar

CANARY ISLANDS

3

MACRO CONCERTS

The men behind the music JUST OVER THREE YEARS AGO, A GROUP OF BUSINESSMEN IN SOUTH TENERIFE HAD A REVOLUTIONARY IDEA, TO BRING MEGASTAR CONCERTS TO THE TOURIST AREA IN THE ISLAND AND SUN LIVE FESTIVAL CANARIAS WAS BORN. should have been in place over 30 years ago, promoted by the Canarian Government.

“Better late than never. The Canaries could be the Las Vegas of Europe, copying all the good things about Las Vegas and not the bad.”

Their first objective is to increase the level of exterior promotion, to make the Canaries known the whole world over. World class stars always have an important level of press following. The Elton John concert attracted major worldwide interest and Rod Stewart’s impending visit is already having spectacular coverage even before the concert takes place. This year’s concert was also presented in the major holiday trade fairs in Spain, Germany and Russia and it is hoped the contract with their next major star will have been signed in time for the London World Travel Market.

Secondly they want to improve the way the hotels are marketed. Wages are higher here than in many of our competitors’ destinations increasing the price of the overall holiday. However if in addition to the fabulous hotels, the hoteliers can offer concert tickets to see a major star such as Elton John, Rod Stewart, Paul McCartney or Beyonce, it tips the balance in favour of the clients choosing to holiday here instead of elsewhere. It makes the Tenerife holiday much more attractive and unequalled in the market.

Just recently the manager of the Hotel Villa Cortés was taking his leave of a guest and he happened to mention the upcoming concert. The client immediately booked a return trip, three rooms and his concert tickets. Last January there wasn’t a bed empty in the south, a May concert is unlikely to have the same 100 per cent result, but it is clear that the concerts attract clients and help to fill the hotels, restaurants, bars and excursions.

Finally the old sun, beach and hotel offer is no longer enough to attract tourists, there has to be something extra and they believe that the

Jordi Esplugas, Gaspare Bertolucci and Dario Morra (l-r)

level of cultural activity in the south is scarce. Sun Live’s idea is to add to the leisure offer with absolute first rate musical events which, together with other complementary projects, improve the cultural offer to a level which they feel is obligatory in a top quality destination. More people than ever are suppor ting the concert this year. The first year was more difficult, possibly people didn’t believe that somebody of Elton John’s level would play Tenerife.

Now the hotels, tour operators etc. are more involved but even more support is needed from all levels of the sector and especially the administrations. They expect to attract at least 30,000 people for the concert, which for May is incredible. Major

tour operators are offering holiday packages complete with entrance tickets all over Spain and Portugal, the first time that has ever been done in Tenerife.

Despite the crisis, Sun Live intend to continue with their project and will be knocking on the door of the administrations as often as possible to get more public funding.

They claim that it is stupid not to put money into the concerts as for every euro invested the Canary Islands gets 100 back.

The more support they can get the lower the price of the tickets and the higher the quality of the star they can book, which means an even more attractive destination and more hotel beds booked and more people spending

money in the bars and restaurants. Of the two or three million that it takes to set up a concert like this, a major part of the funds remains in the islands with the stage and lighting organisers, the catering companies etc. It provides jobs and income for Canarian residents, now more important than ever.

All major cultural events the world over these days are sponsored in some way. They are not asking for a gift of the cash, but an investment in the tourism industry from the administrations. “Only in the IGIC (Spanish VAT) the gains in the Canaries of a concert of this size are around 250,000 euros,” underlined Jordi, “this is the tip of the iceberg of the benefits of this type of concert for the Canaries”. Sun Live

have promised they will be bringing in the international stars from, “Championship League” level. Tickets are more expensive than the Elton John concert as last time expected aid from the Canarian Government didn’t arrive and they had to make up the shortfall from their own pockets. They are enormously disappointed that other companies have received three and four times the amount of sponsorship for stars with less universal drawing power. In January of 2008 they received a grant of €20,000 for the Elton John concert held in the heart of the southern tourist area. A concert the following month during Carnaval in Santa Cruz starring Chayanne received €30,000.

Tickets for Rod Stewart start at just 50 euros, but there are prices to suit all pockets and a great night’s entertainment is promised.

The rock star is bringing a large group of musicians and dancers with him to put on a wonderful show, the production of which is in the hands of the top company, D’Allesandro e Galli, who are trusted by world renowned names the likes of The Eagles, Jackson Browne and Lenny Kravitz, to produce their concerts. Buy your ticket through the link on our web page at www.islandconnections.eu and remember to get there early.

We're here to make sure that you're missing nothing from home

CC Fañabe Plaza and Compostela Beach (shopping zone), Playa de las Vistas

4

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

CANARY ISLANDS

Island hopping Fred. Olsen S.A. Inter island route map

experience in the merchant marines where he held the ranks of captain and navigator. He hails from Cartagena in mainland Spain, is married with two children and now happily settled in the Canaries. His first job with Fred. Olsen was operating the Gran Canaria to Santa Cruz route.

never suffered any incidents with whales or dolphins. We take lots of care with the environment, cleanliness and contamination levels. Have you ever noticed the curved route we take from Los Cristianos to San Sebastián? That is done to avoid them, but even so they often play in the wake of the ferry”.

He returned to dr y land as terminal manager at Los Cristianos in 1997, and two years later was appointed the company’s head of operations. He has occupied the position of fleet manager

Some of the company’s fleet are rented, some chartered and some owned, and no boats are kept in reserve ‘in case of breakdown’ as this would considerably increase costs which would have to be passed on in the form of higher ticket prices. The company was reluctant to raise prices following the 2008 fuel hikes, but quick to lower them again as soon as fuel prices fell back. Juan told us that in this regard there have now been seven price reductions.

Cheap holidays with Fred. Olsen JUST DECIDE WHICH ISLAND YOU WOULD LIKE TO VISIT AND GO THERE WITH FRED. OLSEN EXPRESS.

By Theresa Willson

F

or those of us who live in the Canar y Islands, there is still an inexpensive way of travelling between the islands, with or without your car.

Just decide which island you would like to visit and go there with Fred. Olsen Express. There are so many offers and discount levels available on ferry tickets that despite the crisis, there’s really no need to stay at home.

Fred. Olsen’s fleet manager Juan Liaño Nuñez recently told Island Connections how the company manages to keep costs down, continuing to offer a fast and comfortable service, and also described the latest developments and offers.

The latest project to come to fruition was the introduction of the Benchi Express (affectionately referred to as ‘the baby’) which recently began operating the route

which links Los Cristianos, San Sebastián, Playa Santiago and Valle Gran Rey. Juan told us that interest is growing in this service as a means of reaching the company’s Hotel Jardin Tecina and golf course which is only a taxi or minibus ride away from the pier at Playa Santiago, and that, “an incredible amount of people are using the Benchi for short excursions within La Gomera”. He commented, “thanks to our staff, it only took two months to put into

action and the route was operational on the day that the contract was signed”.

Although only 40.2 metres long, the Benchi Express is a fast ferry with two decks which is capable of carrying up to 300 passengers. This model, the Flying Cat 40 (of Nor wegian construction) is one of the most popular and reliable aluminium catamarans in the world for passenger transport.

Juan joined Fred. Olsen in 1994 having gained much

for the last 18 months. Juan told us that from time to time he does miss the ‘hands-on’ aspect, but is happy in his work. He told us, “I would like to buy a boat, I just love the sea”.

1994 was a boom year for Fred. Olsen when the Gran Canaria and La Palma routes were introduced, along with the fast ferries and fears that these vessels would be bad for the cetacean population. Juan told us, “we have

It would not be viable to have one ferry dedicated to each port, so each vessel has its own circuit. The company has established itself in ports which enable the shortest and therefore fastest island-to-island links to be made, and excursions continue to sell well in other areas (such as Puer to de la Cruz to La Gomera, for which the passengers travel to Los Cristianos by coach).

The winning policy is one of faster journeys and more departures.

All the islands are linked by the company, except the legendar y San Borondon which apparently doesn’t show up on any navigation system.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

CANARY ISLANDS

Islandtravel

Island hopping Latest tariffs

Juan Liaño Nuñez, Fleet Manager, Fred. Olsen S.A.

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Inter island travel

Spread your wings

Take advantage of the latest tariffs which offer incentives for advance booking. In addition to the discount applicable to residents of the Canary Islands, there are four levels.

With the base level, you can buy your tickets right up to the time of travel and can make unlimited changes to the date and time of departure. There are also reduced, mini and supermini levels.

The mini and supermini tariffs offer great discounts for purchasing your tickets in advance.

Hence these amazingly low prices - students can travel between Gran Canaria and Tenerife for only 15 euros return, for one person and a car the same return journey would only cost 55 euros, and three people and a car can travel from Tenerife to La Gomera and back for as little as 80 euros – that’s less than 27 euros each!

5

IF YOU PREFER TO FLY, LOCAL AIRLINE BINTER CANARIAS LINKS ALL THE ISLANDS AND FLIES TO MOROCCO AS WELL.

Tarjeta Plus

LOYALTY CARD

Even more savings can be made with the company’s loyalty card, the Tarjeta eta Plus.

Introduced in 1995 this well accepted card was designed to enable passengers to earn points which can be exchanged for trips, accommodation at the Hotel Jardin Tecina, green fees at Tecina Golf or items from the company’s shops. The more journeys you make, the more

points you gain. Juan told us that the company is working on strengthening this card and extending its benefits to other partner businesses. To request your Plus Loyalty Card, complete the request form at any of the Fred. Olsen Lines terminals or online at www.fredolsen.es.

JUAN TOLD US th that the company wants to encourage people to travel.

“It is a good time to travel between the islands. We have many offers and discounts, especially if you book in advance. Take advantage of all this – go with the best company at the best prices!”

From Tenerife, you can use either Los Rodeos airport in the north or the Reina Sofía airport in the south depending on your destination, and as a frequent flyer you can accumulate points towards vehicle hire, hotel accommodation and much more. Check their website www.bintercanarias.com for more information. Islas Airways links La Palma, Tenerife North, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. For more information and current promotions, go to www.islasairways.com.

Whether you travel by sea or air, a holiday on one of the other islands means little travelling time, great value for money, and most of all, gives you the opportunity to see how very individual each of the Islands are. If you still prefer ferries and would like to go a bit further afield, Naviera Armas not only connects all the Canary Islands, but Madeira and Portugal as well. More information on www.navieraarmas.com. www.bintercanarias.com www.islasair ways.com www.navieraarmas.com

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EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

CANARY ISLANDS

HOTLINE EXTENSION

Cures and crisis

Benefit cheats beware “WE’RE CLOSING IN ON BENEFIT THIEVES IN SPAIN” The UK Department for Work and Pensions has extended its successful benefit cheats hotline to the Canar y Islands and the Costa del Sol following its launch in Alicante in September 2008.

Minister Tony McNulty says the UK government is determined to stamp out benefit fraud

Residents here and in the Spanish peninsula can report suspected British benefit thieves to a local number and their concerns will be passed on by the operator of the hotline to a team of investigators in the UK. Britain’s Employment and Welfare Reform Minister Tony McNulty said “we are absolutely determined to stop benefit thieves stealing from the British taxpayer. Our commitment extends beyond the borders of the UK. Even in sunny Spain, we’re closing in on benefit fraud.”

The total cost of benefit fraud committed by UK benefit recipients living in or travelling to countries abroad is an estimated £63 million a year. It involves a range of scams such as people on means-tested benefits going abroad but failing to declare their absence, and individuals working while claiming sickness benefits.

This initiative is part of a growing relationship between Spain and the UK on social security issues that already includes agreements to data-match and share death notifications. The Spanish benefit fraud hotline number is 900 554 440. It is free and confidential and operates from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. You can also report someone online by visiting https://secure.dwp.gov.uk/ benefitfraud/

EDUCATION

Canarian drop outs According to Pilar Teresa Díaz Luís, the Canar y Islands continues to be the Spanish region with the highest number of early school leavers.

Speaking at the recent Adeje Careers Trade Fair, the director general of the regional department

of education said that almost 35 per cent of Canarian school goers leave full time education before completing their schooling, as opposed to a national level of just under 30 per cent – still unacceptably high. Her depar tment is putting into place the Canarian

Plan for Education for the Family, which aims to improve communication between schools and parents and look at the strategies needed to meet the new challenges facing the region’s young people.

Días Luís also said that there were up to 284 pro-

grammes now available working to either dissuade students from dropping out of school or offering resources for those who wished to rejoin the education fold.

She said the depar tment’s objective was that no one should be leaving school until they had at

least completed their basic secondary education.

Spain continues to register one of the highest levels of early school leavers within the EU, who have set a benchmark figure of just 10 per cent by 2010!

MELÉNDEZ STAFF SLAM FORMER BOSS Fo r m e r e m p l o y e e s of biochemist Enrique Meléndez have accused their ex-boss of underhand tactics to get rid of them after sales of his miraculous cures plummeted due to the economic crisis.

The controversial scientist told workers at his research institute in Tenerife at the beginning of the year that they would have to leave because he had no choice but to comply with instructions to close the facility after a losing a legal battle against the health authorities. However, fourteen employees who have taken him to court over the dismissals say the real reason was the downturn in the hugely profitable business, which in previous years had brought massive profits to the university professor.

According to the ex-employees, patients stopped buying his secret formulations, known as factor one and factor two, due to the crisis and Meléndez, who had ignored closure orders several times previously, changed tactics and announced he was shutting the premises. “He is still raking in the money from different businesses he has set up recently but he says he cannot pay us compensation for our sackings” say the fourteen, whose court case against their former employer is scheduled for mid-May.

Petition

Granadilla supports port, says PP

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People in Granadilla are behind the new port, according to the town’s branch of the Popular Party, which plans to extend a petition to other parts of the island given the support already expressed for the controversial facility.

The petition was organised during a 20-day period and

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received almost 6,000 signatures (a fifth of the local population), a figure which the PP says contradicts opponents’ statements that nobody in the area wants the port. “We hope that the signatures here and in other towns will help remove the current obstacle to the construction of the port” said a PP spokesman. The petition campaign

included the distribution of thousands of pro-port flyers and posters in shop windows in the town.

The party says it launched the initiative after receiving a flood of requests from locals to do something to counter the anti-por t movement, which has succeeded in having the work halted by the courts.

Gran Canaria transport

Buses for sale Las Palmas council approved the sale of 49 per cent of the public bus company Guaguas Municipales recently.

The idea is to bring private capital into the service

which has been hard hit financially and struggling for several years. The council wants to clear the company’s debts and guarantee the future of public transport in the capital. Members of

the conser vative opposition want the company to remain in public hands and are preparing a proposal to the island council that they should buy the shares in the bus company.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

CANARY ISLANDS

7

FAMILY HOLIDAYS

Bring the kids THE CANARY ISLANDS MAY BE THE PERFECT GET AWAY FOR YOUNG COUPLES OR 20-SOMETHINGS ON A BIT OF A WILD BREAK, BUT ITS ALSO A MORE THAN IDEAL DESTINATION FOR A FAMILY BREAK. Thats the message that regional tourism minister Rita Martín has been touting during April and May under the Islas Canarias, Destino de Familias banner.

The islands were well represented at the familybased trade fair, Con mis Hijos (With my kids) in Madrid, alongside a publicity drive in national papers El País and El Mundo; and a series of promotional visits in Spain, Poland and London’s Regent Street.

Madrid Zoo also saw some activity with visits of four mascots representing different natural resources of the islands such as volcanoes and the sun and sea as well as t-shirts and head scar ves for visiting kids and adults.

On average a tourist holidaying with their family will spend €100 per person per day, with Denmark being the country that sends most families our way, followed by the UK, Finland, France, Spain and Germany. A third of families will stay in five star aparthotels, a quarter in a four star aparthotel, with another quarter opting for privately rented accommodation.

The promotional drive in Poland is ongoing until May 24th and based in Warsaw, Gdansk and Krakow via travel agencies and shop-

ping centres. On May 31st London’s Regent Street will be the site for a huge Canarian display with face painters, balloon artists, clowns and magicians, aimed at attracting children and families to learn more about holidaying on the islands. Martín told press that her department was working to meet the demands of a market that was becoming increasingly segmented.

“We are looking to create ‘product clubs’ created to satisfy the needs of tourists interested in this kind of offer”.

She added that she was also looking at the creation of zones within tourist boroughs, or specialist resorts, developed specifically with the family in mind.

“When a client is having difficulties choosing between a number of different destinations and competitive offers...a banner associating the destination with a particular image can become a determining factor in the final decision”.

According to the minister up to 30 establishments have already agreed to work under the new Family Destination scheme, and their inclusion will also mean a guarantee to the visitor that they offer a certain quality of product and service. In the hotel sector

participation in the scheme will be valued in the area of room standards – beds and furniture – protection and security, communal areas, spor ting and enter tainment activities, closeness to the beach, pedestrian zones, playgrounds, supermarkets and pharmacies among other things.

The destination itself will have to offer special family prices at any of their tourist attractions, make tourist routes accessible to children, offer security, extra child-friendly facilities, ensure cars for rent have child seats, buses are fitted with ramps for buggy access, restaurants have high chairs and baby changing areas as well as cups, plates and cutler y suitable for younger diners and drinkers. Ease of locating family doctors will also be a priority as well as encouraging street theatre, children’s playgrounds, beach-based activities and shows for younger sunseekers and sporting offers for kids.

Family based tourism is considered the ‘third niche’ in Spain and represents about 20 per cent of the overall market, but one which, according to the minister, represents a segment with huge potential in both the medium and long term.

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JEWELLERS SINCE 1989 Scorpio Jewellers, C.C. El Duque. C/ Bruselas, 1 . Tel. 922 719 124 Scorpio Jewellers, C.C. San Eugenio, L. 28, 29, 30. Tel. 922 714 206 Scorpio Jewellers, C.C. San Telmo, Playa Los Cristianos, L. 18/19. Tel. 922 794 565 Diamonds International, C.C. Hotel Esmeralda, 1. Tel. 922 715 701 Diamonds International, C.C. San Eugenio, L. 51. Tel. 922 714 125

8

7 Islands

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Lanzarote

Fuerteventura

Puerto del Carmen

Charity begins at home

By Ian White

AN ENGLISH WOMAN’S DREAM OF SETTING UP A HOMELESS CHARITY IN LUXURIOUS LANZAROTE IS FINALLY FULFILLED, FOLLOWING PUBLICITY IN ISLAND CONNECTIONS. Debbie SellwoodBrown, 45, of Puerto del Car men, is now president of the newlyformed The Last Resort (La Última Opción), which was granted registration in record time because of the gravity of the situation. She told us, “since the article in your newspaper over Christmas it’s been all systems go. We received our full registration back from Las Palmas in Gran Canaria within a week of our provisional paperwork being issued in April. Normally it would take months, but social ser vices have said it’s obviously because they realise there’s a desperate need for it.”

The primar y concept of the project is to assist homeless/cashless people stranded on the island to return home. Debbie has helped do this twice in recent months - an Englishman who turned up with little money thinking he could still walk into a job as he did a few years ago and ended up sleeping by a satellite dish on the roof of a bar and an Italian chef now back in Scotland after ‘escaping’ to Lanzarote following a relationship break-up. Debbie is gradually introducing her blue/

yellow/white (deliberately chosen colours of the Canarian flag) collection tins in the bars, clubs and shops of Puerto del Carmen. They can be spotted by the distinctive yellow butterfly logo. “We chose a butterfly as it represents transformation. Just as a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly, we are in the business of transforming lives. So many charities here are for animals or for people elsewhere but we can miss what’s on our very doorstep.”

Debbie, whose par tner Gar y Timms is the charity’s secretary, said they also wanted to give people the option of sorting their lives out on the island if they wished to remain here. She’s busy meeting representatives of bodies dealing with drug/alcohol abuse and domestic violence and in finding a base for a “much needed” secondhand charity shop.

Meantime, Debbie is delighted that the Tías Ayuntamiento has developed her vision of a ‘soup kitchen’. “They think it’s a great idea and have made it bigger. What they want to open is a communal dining room incorporating such things as sofas and televisions.” A threeday fund-raising gala has already been arranged to be staged on the roof patio area of the El Fondeadero restaurant college in Calle Teide, old town Puerto del Carmen, from May 16-18th.

Anyone wanting to help in any way - including sponsoring collection tins - can contact Debbie on 679 736 451 or Gary on 636 399 885.

La Oliva

Music festival go ahead

The festival takes place in July in El Cotillo

La Oliva council has promised to do its best to ensure Fuer teventura’s music festival goes ahead this summer, despite problems with the usual site.

The assurance was made after it emerged that the owners of the land used for the July festival in El Cotillo had refused permission for the event. The island’s Cabildo had initially contemplated cancelling the festival due to the hitch but it appears that pressure from the business

community in El Cotillo has secured a change of heart and alternatives are being sought.

Local business representatives have also met with the council to enlist its suppor t to maintain the event and mayor Rosa Fernández promised to do all she could to support it, although she insisted that the corporation’s contribution was limited to providing support infrastructure and keeping the area clean.

No details have been released of the line-up for the festival, which was headlined last year by Brazilian Carlinhos Brown.

Puerto del Rosario

Dog jab campaign The Puerto del Rosario council is in the midst of a campaign to vaccinate dogs against rabies and provide them with microchips, to conform with current laws. Dog owners who can prove that they live in the municipality by producing a residency certificate or DNI can get their pooches vaccinated

against rabies for only five euros, and microchipped for an additional 17 euros. In this way, the dogs will be listed in the municipal canine census, again complying with current legislation. The campaign will run until 6th June in various towns and villages in the municipality. Check local notices for details of dates and times.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna

World Heritage Cultural Site Free guided tours in English, German and French.

Tourist Information Office Casa de los Capitanes Call to book tour: 922 631 194 Fax: 922 608 974 . E-Mail: turismo.laguna@cabtfe.es Mondays to Sundays from 9am to 5pm

Tourist Information Office Los Rodeos Call to book tour: 922 825 046 Fax: 922 608 974 . E-Mail: turismo.laguna@cabtfe.es Mondays to Sundays from 9am to 5pm

7 Islands

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

9

La Gomera

La Palma

San Marcos

Observatory

Fire jumping in Agulo

History Channel presentation

By Barbara Belt

LA GOMERA’S PRESENT SOCIAL CALENDAR REMAINS AS FIRMLY BASED ON SAINTS’ DAYS AND CHURCH CELEBRATIONS AS IT WAS A HUNDRED YEARS AGO. St. Mark’s day in late April is one such day and was, until this year, one of the island’s best kept secrets. The recent bid by Agulo’s council to have the fiesta declared ‘of cultural interest to tourists’ has obviously done much to put it on the map. Although, thankfully, there was no great influx of tourists given that this is ver y much the low season, there was a marked increase in the press presence. A battery of cameras and microphones positioned itself between the crowd and the unlit fires. As always, in pursuit of the perfect picture for those at home, their presence prevented those who were there from seeing. But we panicked not. The fires were still unlit.

This unique fire jumping fiesta in the street around the church bearing his name, in the northern village of Agulo, did draw a bigger crowd than ever this St. Mark’s feast. The event took place, as always, on the ‘vispera’ of (night before) the saint’s day, which is on the twenty-fifth of March every year and this year, the vispera fell on a Friday night for the first time in many years, ensuring good attendance.

Ten years ago, many islanders had never been to Agulo for this event. It was not well known. Now, largely due to the island’s T.V. EIMA channel, most islanders at least know of its existence, even if

they have never been there.

Whilst there may have been a desire to go, making the drive across the island to Agulo on tortuous roads for a couple of hours one midweek night is not an attractive prospect.

At the subsequent fiesta in the little square beside the church, the people of Agulo, and the other northern towns Vallehermoso and Hermigua, usually have the square to themselves, as the few islanders from other towns leave after the jumping.

Setting off in relaxed fashion on a Friday evening for a bout of serious adventure and a great spectacle, followed by dancing till the early hours and a gentle meander home at day break, is a completely different matter. Hence the crowds.

The event, as always, was the main feature of a week of celebrations to mark the date. St. Mark is the patron saint of the little town and his anniversary is made much of.

Various sporting and cultural events took place during the lead up to his day, with the collection of stored juniper wood from nearby mountains starting early on The Day. In the afternoon, a line of small bonfires was built along the cobbled main street next to the church and square, the town centre having previously been cleared of traffic.

Small ‘kioscos’ (mobile fiesta bars) were erected next to the church and were duly stocked

Younger men jumped first

and the crowds began to arrive before dusk.

Agulo is a very pretty little town, full of old, Canarian houses along cobbled streets and it looked especially attractive with the typical San Marcos decorations this year.

Whilst the older generation crowded into the church to hear the special mass, the town’s young men gathered at one end of the main street to wait for mass to finish.

Meanwhile, both sides of the narrow street filled with onlookers anxious to find a good place to see everything and the waiting jumpers took up the chant, ‘fuego, fuego’ (fire.)

When the church service finished, the bells crashed and rang, St Mark’s statue was carried out to do a turn around the church, there was

a burst of sound from tambores and chacaras (drums and castanets) and the fires were lit.

The first jumpers started to run down towards the bonfires and San Marcos 2009 was properly under way. This year’s fires, according to the experts, were -as always - bigger and better than ever and none of the frequently experienced difficulties in lighting them were experienced.

The younger men jumped first, with the flames still dangerously fierce. Older men, boys and girls followed suit as the fires died down.

When they had burnt down and the jumping was over, the popular practice of collecting ash from the fires took place.

Sprinkling the ash on crops produces bumper crops, according to tradition.

The Roque de Los Muchachos obser vator y was recently the scene of much action by the History Channel when La Palma was chosen for the presentation of the channel’s third season of the superproduction El Universo.

The unprecendented tour of cosmic phenomena and life in space, featuring the most significant scientific installation in the northern hemisphere, the Gran Telescopio Canario (Grantecan), will be televised in 138 countries worldwide on May 15th.

The Histor y Channel will also be broadcasting a publicity spot for the island in Spain and Portugal, which is the result of the support given by the island’s tourism department for this project, and which promotes La Palma as an astronomy related tourist destination. The island cabildo’s councillor for tourism and transport, Beatriz Páez commented, “this is a way to reach large numbers of people, it is also a great platform to reach a niche of the market as important

as astronomy”, adding that, “the Roque de Los Muchachos observatory is of scientific and cultural significance on a local, national and international level, and puts La Palma in the spotlight”.

A group of specialist scientific repor ters arrived from Spain and Portugal to learn more about the specific conditions of fered by the island which facilitate astronomic observation, including its geographic location, atmosphere and clarity of its skies.

The Observatory’s administrator Juan Carlos Pérez Arencibia, who was extremely satisfied with the presentation, took advantage of the occasion to emphasise some of their scientific finds including the discovery of 22 new planets, the first of which will bear the name of Garafía, as well as the four-hour study using one of the 14 telescopes at El Roque, of the meteorite which fell in Somalia in March 2007.

In this year which commemorates 400 years since Galileo Galilei first observed the skies, the History Channel will be offering 12 episodes which show high definition images of how stars were born and their disappearance into black holes.

10

Gran Canaria

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Jesus Christ Superstar

TEATRO CUYÁS

The Teatro Cuyás in Las Palmas will be hosting 18 performances of the musical Jesus Christ Superstar, in Spanish, between June 6 and 20.

This is a unique opportunity and the last chance to see this musical which rocked Broadway and the rest of the world in the seventies, and which has provoked magnificent applauses across Spain, as Las Palmas is the last stop on the tour.

According to Gonzalo Ubani, artistic director of the Cabildo’s theatres, this musical is, “together with Cabaret, the best in history”.

He went on to say that he had seen the show in Madrid that the voices bordered on operatic, and the perform-

Hells Angels arrested Several Hells Angels members from Las Palmas are among almost 30 members of the bikers’ organisation detained in swoops by police across the country recently.

The raids, the third major operation against the Angels in the past decade, were ordered after a lengthy investigation into alleged criminal activities, including drug-trafficking, possession of weapons

and extortion. Most of the arrests were made in Barcelona, although a small number of Hells Angels were also detained in Gran Canaria in the early-morning swoops.

The Spanish authorities have expressed growing concern in recent times at the activities of the organisation, which has regrouped and increased its membership since the last major operation to disband it in 2007.

Alfredo Kraus

Tenor honoured Sandra Criada (centre) plays Mary

ance was convincing and full of energy. The show consists of 70 people and five trailers which will be brought to the island. Sandra Criada was chosen to play the part of Mary Magdalene at auditions which took place during the 2008 series of Operación

Triunfo and which were televised countr y-wide. Of Mary Magdalene, she said, “she was a strong woman who, despite her shady past, stayed at Jesus’ side until the end. There are many Mary Magdalenes in the world, who decide to take a step forward

and face the ultimate consequences of their decisions”.

She commented, “This is the musical of the musicals”, based on the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and the lyrics of Tim Rice, and that, “it is performed with great respect for the original score”.

BORON ALERT

Water refund sought Households in Las Palmas want local water company Emalsa to give them a refund to of fset the cost of buying bottled water due to the ongoing boron alert.

In addition to being angry at the apparently deliberate concealment of information on the dangerous levels of the substance in the water, residents are adamant that they should not have to bear the additional expense of buying safe water for drinking and cooking. According to initial

Raids

forecasts, homes in the city may be affected for several weeks and the company is under increasing pressure to alleviate the situation by offering bill refunds dating back to December, when it seems the high boron levels were first detected. One consumer group has already announced it is to take legal action against the company and the city authorities for endangering public health by delaying the issuing of instructions not to drink tap water.

Update your current affairs ow knowhow Read the online edition of s’ Island Connections’ newspaper daily

The instruction not to drink tap water was delayed

One of Gran Canaria’s most internationally known sons was honoured in Germany recently.

To mark the tenth anniversary of the death of tenor, Alfredo Kraus, there was a concert in the Staatsoper in Berlin.

The act was organised by the society for the promotion of Canarian Culture in Europe in conjunction with the Canarian Government, the International Alfredo Kraus foundation and the Spanish Embassy

in Berlin. The society’s president and Las Palmas mayor, Jerónimo Saavedra, and the Canarian Minister for Culture, Milagros Luis Brito, were both present at the event. The concert in the Sala Apolo was a complete sell out and echoed with long applause from the public to honour the memory of Kraus.

Berlin was chosen for the event as it also hosted his last public concert in April 1999 just a few months before his death.

Budget

Council cutbacks The budget for the island capital for 2009 has been cut by 43 million euros.

Council spending is to be cut from 352 million euros to 309, a reduction of over 12 per cent. The vote approving the decrease was carried by the ruling group’s majority despite the conservative opposition’s vote against. They claimed that the budget cuts were, “unreal”.

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Island Connections Media Group C/ Francisco Feo Rodríguez, 6 Las Chafiras · San Miguel de Abona Tel. 922 750 609 · Fax 922 795 810 info@ic-news.com

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Santa Cruz

The international competition to create the best poster to announce the 2010 Carnaval in Santa Cruz is now under way.

The councillor for fiestas in Santa Cruz, Maribel Oñate explained that artists have until May 24 to submit their entries for the poster which is needed as soon as possible so that the council can begin a promotion campaign for Carnaval and for the city.

The opening of the competition was announced in the Official Bulletin of the province recently and more information can be found online at www.santacruzmas.com and www.sctfe. es. There will be a prize of 3,000 euros for the creator of the chosen poster which must be original and be based on the theme of Carnaval 2010 which is the History of Humanity.

11

LIONS CLUB INTERNATIONAL

Sweet Lucy Appeal

Carnaval poster

POSTER COMP OPENS

TENERIFE

SEVEN YEAR-OLD LUCY COOK FACES LIFE WITH A SERIES OF DISABILITIES.

A

t the age of two, her parents realised that she had a problem with walking.

Later on, Lucy severed a finger without showing any sign of pain or distress. Various medical tests confirmed that she suffered from a disorder known as Sensory Ataxic Neuropathy which means that the gene which affects her nerves and coordination is missing. The sense which should tell her where parts of our body are without having to look simply isn’t there and she suffers a loss of sensation in parts of her body. Lucy cannot walk without thinking, for her it is a conscious effort as she has to use her eyes.

Her legs eventually become tired and give way beneath her.

Lucy also has problems with her eyes which are extremely sensitive to bright light, eczema and asthma which are

really needs an electric wheelchair. Rachel says, “the future for Lucy is unknown, she is slowly getting worse and will eventually need to use a wheelchair all the time”.

The future for Lucy is unknown

all controlled by medication.

Recently, splints have been made for her to support her ankles, especially when she falls, as her walking is getting worse. Her mother Rachel told Island Connections, “she needs a new pair of splints ever y year as she grows,

and her walker which we brought here from the UK is now three years old. These are all ongoing costs”. Lucy has a manual wheelchair to help her move about, but someone has to push her all the time. To give her some independence, she

At the moment Lucy attends a normal school and has a full-time carer. She has lots of friends and is bright and happy. Rachel told us that Lucy is a clever girl and is one of the top children in her class, although like everyone, she has her bad days.

The family moved to Tenerife nearly two years ago because the climate here is a great help with Lucy’s condition. She is under medical super vision, is about to

begin physiotherapy and tests are always being undertaken, but her condition will never improve. Her parents have to watch and monitor her, and are trying to make plans for that uncertain future which lies ahead. Even though the Spanish government pays a proportion of her medical bills, there are many other costs involved.

For this reason, the Lions Club International of Santiago del Teide has set up the Sweet Lucy Appeal which is intended to enable Lucy to have some form of independence and to lead, as far as possible, a normal child’s life. Any donations, no matter how big or small, will help her to have an electric wheelchair, new leg splints, a walker, and the medication and treatment that she needs.

If you can help, donations can be paid into the Lions Club International account at Banca March, account number 0061 0215 140119520111.

12

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

TENERIFE

ARONA BEACHES

News in Brief

Ban it or bin it?

ABSURD, DICTATORIAL, RIDICULOUS – JUST SOME OF THE TERMS THAT SPRANG TO THE LIPS OF MANY AT THE NEWS OF ARONA’S PROPOSED BAN ON SMOKING AND DRINKING ON THE BOROUGH’S BEACHES.

WIN A HOUSE

A family that wants to migrate to Canada has set up a lottery to sell their home in Tahiche, Lanzarote.

A beautiful four bedroom, two bathroom villa with two living rooms a terrace, private swimming pool and sea views valued at over 400,000 euros can be yours for just 99 euros. There are 7,499 tickets on sale which the organisers claim gives you better odds than winning the big prize in the ‘gordo’ Spanish Christmas lottery. More information on: www.villa-raffle-lanzarote.com/

The information, published in local Spanish papers, quoting the borough’s environmental councillor Antonio Sosa on the issue, seemed to take many political opponents and local business representatives by surprise, despite Sosa’s subsequent protests that the information had been contained in draft proposals published by the council late last year.

However take them by surprise it would appear to have done.

The proposals, to be put to a council vote on April 30th, would have seen a total ban on smoking and drinking alcohol on all of Arona’s beaches, as well as a prohibition on the elaboration of sand structures for public view (sand castles?) without a municipal licence, massages and bodily decorations – which, it is assumes, meant tattoos, body piercing and probably hair braiding. The reason behind the new bylaws, as explained by Sosa, is, in the case of smoking, to eliminate the contamination caused by cigarette butts, and in the case of alcohol to stamp out the ‘botellón’ – where people, mostly under age drinkers, get together in public places to drink alcohol.

However, no matter what the intention, the reality of such an imposition could see a family outing spoilt,

Tahiche

Yulisa Pérez

STEPFATHER GETS 20 YEARS with the kids forbidden from building sand castles and their parents banned from enjoying a can or two of beer with their picnic lunch, whether they smoke or not.

The likelihood is that they would opt for a beach in another part of the island.

“Disproportionate”, was the initial reaction of socialist opposition spokesperson Francisco Santamaría, who saw the measures as impractical and inapplicable adding that there were many environmental matters of much greater impor tance that needed attention, including the issue of sewage running

directly into the sea. He added that this should not be a priority for the council. CAN’s Manuel Barrios added that the council really needed to apply their might to other more pressing matters, such as the current economic crisis, not aided by the drop in tourists – many of whom, no doubt, like to smoke on the beach.

The president of Ashotel (the province’s hotel federation), while happy to see the elimination of the botellón (though is this not already outlawed under local ordinance?), was not supportive of a move to ban smoking on

the beach, but said instead there should be more effort made to encourage people to clean up after themselves, and provide beach ashtrays.

His allusion to the continuing lack of showers, rubbish bins, and a general level of cleanliness on many of the beaches in Arona and Adeje spoke for itself in terms of where the environmental pressure should be placed.

Stronger words were forthcoming from Juan Francisco Reverón, president of the El Mojón plan, who told the Diario de Avisos that the move was “dictatorial”.

Maria Rosales, president of

local tourism body CIT Sur said the idea was “absurd..it was as if Franco had risen from his grave”.

By the time the day for the proposal to actually make it to the council chambers arrived the level of antagonism had obviously become too much for Sosa and the ruling CC party, who enjoy a healthy majority in the town hall, and the motion was withdrawn from the agenda.

Whether there is now to be a ban on politicians opening their mouths before they place their foot in them has yet to be decided.

the third most important in Spain, to be known as a national and international reference point for complete quality. Despite this, Santos warned that in the tourist business, renovation is essential. “You have to bring yourselves up to date because you are thinking of the tourist of the eighties, and not for today’s clients who are much more discerning in every respect”.

Referring to the taxi sector, Santos said that this is the key. “When a person visits the district, the first and last contact that he or she makes with it is by taxi.

It is essential then, that the taxi drivers be the first and last example of quality tourism”. Of the hotels, Santos said that Costa Adeje can boast that it has the best supply of accommodation

in the whole country and he encouraged the representatives to continue preparing themselves to compete, from the quality point of view, with new and emerging holiday destinations.

He went on to outline the investments made by different authorities on improvements to the Adeje coastline, including renovation of beaches and promenades, indicating that Sicted is a work method based on examples of excellency of proven efficiency which encourage collective improvement projects such as these.

Members are assessed for good work practices and quality service, and apart from self evaluation, information and experiences can be exchanged with other tourist destinations of similar characteristics.

ADEJE

The stepfather of a teenage girl strangled in Lanzarote in November 2007 has been handed the maximum 20-year jail term by a Las Palmas court.

Yulisa Pérez was killed by her mother’s boyfriend after a row over her involvement with a local Jehovah’s Witness branch. Her killer buried her body and then assisted with the search for her until he was arrested after DNA evidence linked him to the scene. He was convicted by a jury and subsequently sentenced to twenty years.

Prison letter

Companies receive quality awards Adeje councillor for tourism, health, consumption, institutional relations and external resources Miguel Ángel Santos recently presented the first certificates under the integral quality tourism system to representatives of 47 private companies and one public organisation. The certificates state that they have passed the audits needed under this system (Sicted) of which Adeje

is pioneer in the Canaries.

It is backed by the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (Femp) and financed by the Secretary General for Tourism.

In the commercial sector, the San Eugenio shopping centre, and in the transport sector the Adeje taxi association, were the first two entities to join this new self evaluation system which promotes quality service and the use of good business practices. The

Troya I and II beaches, the Troya tourist information office, the Iberostar and Adrián hotels in the district, and the Fonda Central rural hotel are also members.

Santos, who congratulated all those awarded, commented that the presentation of the diploma and distinction must not be understood as the end of the project, but as the first stage in obtaining the desired results, and for Costa Adeje and the complete district,

CASE SOLVED

A letter by a prisoner in Las Palmas jail has helped solve the 14year disappearance of a local man.

In the letter, an inmate threatened to spill the beans over the case unless his exgirlfriend agreed to meet him. The letter prompted a reopening of the case of a 42-year-old man from Agüimes who was last seen in 1995. Under questioning, the woman confessed to having helped her ex-boyfriend kill the man and bury his body under a greenhouse. The remains were dug and DNA tests are being conducted to confirm the identity of the victim.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Air-Europa Tenerife-Maimi

US DIRECT

As we reported recently, the new Air Europe Tenerife-Miami link will begin operating in June of this year.

There will be one weekly flight on Saturdays from Miami International Airport to Tenerife’s North Airport, or Tenerife Norte, aboard a 299passenger Airbus A330-200 aircraft, with 24 Business Class seats and 275 seats in Economy Class.

The Air Europa flight UX 096 will depart Miami International Airport at 5:00 PM, arriving in Tenerife the next day at 7:35 AM. The return flight, Air Europa UX 095, will depart Tenerife at 1:50 PM, arriving back in Miami at 4:50 PM the same day. Tenerife tourism officials have declared themselves delighted at the news as it will bring more visitors to the islands. Some 300,000 Floridians are of Canary Island descent, and it is hoped that many of them, as well as thousands more US travellers, will avail of the new service. “Up until now it was difficult for Americans to get to the Canary Islands,” explained Javier Piñanes, director of the Tourist Office of Spain in New York. “This new service will open up a new warmweather destination for Americans, particularly those from the southeastern U.S.,” he added.

TENERIFE

13

ANTI-CRISIS

Exceptional measures needed

ARONA MAYOR JOSÉ ALBERTO GONZÁLEZ REVERÓN RECENTLY PRESIDED OVER THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF ANTI-CRISIS MEETINGS IN THE LOS CRISTIANOS CULTURAL CENTRE. Attendees at the meeting included representatives from the worlds of business and politics as well as those working in social ser vices, neighbourhood associations, hoteliers and trade unions and local chambers of commerce. The mayor said the aim of the forum was to encourage open debate about the current economic crisis as well as looking at a series of proposals which could contribute to alleviating the actual financial problems being experienced by people today. “The main problem facing us is one of uncertainty as a result of the economic crisis... and as a direct result of the destruction of an average of 500 jobs monthly in Arona, according to the

Representatives from all walks of Arona life attended the forum

statistics available to us”.

He also referred to the low levels of qualifications and the disproportionate population growth in the borough as contributory factors to the growth in unemployment there, and the meeting recognised the integral relationship

between education and broader employment opportunities. Looking ahead, González Reverón told the meeting that it was time to move the local economy from a dependence on the construction industr y and look for a new socio-economic

base that would guarantee a long-term level of stability. “We are living through exceptional times which require exceptional measures, and the actions taken by public bodies are very important” he said, adding that the council were working to address

the problem on two levels, increasing the budget for social ser vices to help those in danger of falling below the poverty line, and underlining the importance of investment in public works as a means of reactivating employment.

The meeting agreed that the overall and continued growth of the borough, in line with the general plans already agreed, was essential and seen as “in indispensable tool for the development of the area”. The tourism industr y was also addressed, as was the need for “strong and imaginative promotional activities” to work towards maintaining occupation levels in Arona in face of competition from emerging markets.

14

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

TENERIFE

LA OROTAVA

La Laguna

Tribute to eternal mayor HOMAGE FOR HIS THIRTY YEARS OF PUBLIC SERVICE.

Traditions

Guanche for a day or two The council in San Juan de la Rambla has organised the first ever Guanche festival to be held between 6th and 8th May.

Ignoring the historical fact that most island inhabitants descend from the Iberian Peninsula, as nationalists have been inclined to do in recent years, the mayor said he wanted to use the festival to transmit to the younger generations where they came from, in other words from aboriginal stock.

Nevertheless islanders are naturally proud of the Guanche past and the festival, with examples of aboriginal traditions, crafts and games, should serve to bring cheer and a bit of fun to a downcast, crisis-dominated population. After all, obligatory dress, for politicians as well, was to depict the typical stone-age attire of the defeated but proud Guanche.

Isaac Valencia, the often controversial mayor of La Orotava, had something to cheer about towards the end of April when friends and supporters organised a party to pay him a warm tribute for his thirty years of public ser vice.

His supporters, principally from the upper and originally poorer regions of La Orotava, consider he played a major part in transforming parts of the Orotava Valley, bringing prosperity to all. They remember how he originally stepped into politics in 1978 precisely to try to have third world-like regions modernised so as to have even the most basic of services pro-

Another council in the red There is no secret about the fact that most town councils in Spain are heavily in debt.

The current economic crisis has merely exacerbated the situation as councils fail to pay suppliers and some of these, clearly dependent on work done for the authorities, go bust. The

New boat for virgin virgin for a ride on the sea between 1957 and 1997. Tens of thousands gather to accompany the virgin from her church to the waterside and to watch the colourful annual marine pilgrimage that kicks off from the tiny fishing port. A day of celebration and feasting is rounded off by a huge firework display.

Santa Cruz 515 anniversary

Say it with flowers Tenerife capital Santa Cruz commemorated the 515th anniversary of its creation on May 3rd with a massive floral celebration.

The city was bedecked in flowers of all types for the event, which coincided for the first time in many years with Mother’s Day, causing shortages in local florists. As every

council in Puerto de la Cruz has revealed it has a debt of over 27 million euros in bank loans and unpaid invoices. This amounts to 60 per cent of the total budget for 2008 and does not make the future for public spending or for the completion of existing projects look very bright despite central gov-

ernment’s recent promises to pump cash into councils to help them pay bills and start public building projects.

The council owes five million euros to different suppliers, 14 million euros to Aqualia, the company contracted to maintain the water supplies and sewer network and a further six million euros in

loans taken out to build the new sports stadium which hasn’t even begun to be developed.

Nevertheless, in keeping with tradition, the ruling group are blaming the previous administration for the financial mess at the Town Hall.

ARONA

July fiestas

La Virgen del Carmen, the patron saint to whom the inhabitants and fishermen in Puerto de la Cruz are devoted, now has a brand new boat on which to make her annual religious voyage out into the bay during the July fiestas.

The new boat, La Nueva San Ramón, takes over from its predecessor, San Ramón, which carried out the duty of taking the

centre, he has been elected as mayor on five consecutive occasions, and three times with an overall majority. However nobody can deny that he

PUBLIC DEBT

Puerto de la Cruz

A homage to Isaac Valencia for 30 years service

vided, like electricity and drinking water. Much to the dismay of his detractors, especially middle class merchants in the old town

has modernised La Orotava and helped attract a certain amount of cultural tourism to the town centre by spending money on gardens, parks and especially the traditional old buildings. His fiercely criticised development policies, which include the creation of housing estates and permitting the establishment of giant commercial centres where there were once banana plantations, reflect his dream to turn La Orotava into a city. In fact he recently suggested he would be willing to retire if only he could witness the creation of a university in La Orotava or, in his own words, “when the people and God wish me to go”.

year, the main event saw hundreds of floral crosses prepared across the capital, honouring the city’s name (Holy Cross). Mayor Miguel Zerolo and the island’s Bishop led the solemn evening procession from the Church of the Conception to bring the anniversary to a close.

Tasty tapas route Until May 10, tourists and residents alike have the opportunity to follow the I Ruta G a s t ro n ó m i c a E l Almácigo, an initiative undertaken by the Arona council’s economic promotion and employment department which is led by Dácil García Marcelino, together with the chamber of commerce and the Arona business owners and professionals association.

A total of 18 restaurants in various mid-altitude towns and villages are taking part, each offering customers a maximum of three differ-

ent tapas at a price of three euros for each one, including a drink, between 7pm and 10pm. According to Dácil, one of the main objectives of this initiative is to, “stimulate the restaurant sector and promote the treasures of Canarian cuisine”. At the same time, it allows both residents and tourists to, “ follow the route and get to know the restaurants and tascas in some of Arona’s villages”, opting for quality and professionalism, with incentives awarded for creative cuisine.

The participating restaurants which are all offering extremely tasty tapas of ingenious design are:

Arona town centre: Pastelería Café

Aroma and Bar Mejora

Buzanada: Cafetería La Clave, Cafetería La Jícara, Finca-Restaurante Las Gangarras and Restaurante Casa Genaro Cabo Blanco: Bar Restaurante Jorge y Familia and Restaurante San Martín La Camella: Restaurante El Cerro de la Luna and Restaurante Verna’s

Valle San Lorenzo: Tasca Villa de Candelaria, Bar Cafeteria Alex Café, Restaurante Casa Mario, Bar Restaurante El Valle, Restaurante El Puchero, Cafetería Guajara, Tasca Kejartá and Restaurante Pizzería Dolcetto.

Enjoy your meal - buen provecho!

TENERIFE

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

15

BUDDHIST NEW YEAR

Oriental celebrations CELEBRATION OF THE START OF THE BUDDHIST NEW YEAR, 2552.

W

ith their customar y attention to detail the Kiessling family celebrated the start of the Buddhist New Year, 2552, with typical Thai arts and sports in Siam Park, Loro Parque and the Hotel Botánico and with a special guest, the Thai Ambassador to Spain, Atchara Seriputra.

The Buddhist New Year, Songkran, begins with the new solar year on April 13th, the hottest day of the year in Thailand, so the celebrations were a little late, but nonetheless colourful and exquisite. Guests and visitors to all the installations were treated to representations of Thai contact martial arts, dancing, exhibitions of fruit and vegetable carving, parasol painting and some authentic Thai food that the embassy chefs taught the parks and hotel staff how to prepare.

In Thailand, Songkran is celebrated by throwing or sprinkling water over each other, so where better to celebrate it than Siam Park’s water kingdom? The water thrown is a symbol of purification and cleanliness and is a blessing and brings good luck for the coming year. With the joyous unselfconsciousness and almost childlike inner happiness

that is so typical of the Thai people, her Excellency, Atchara Seriputra, joined in the fun with a water pistol dousing all within her reach. Although she has only been in Spain for a year and a half, this is the Ambassador’s fourth visit to Tenerife and Siam Park which with its Thai architecture and statuary feels like, “a home from home”. Guests were garlanded with necklaces of the, “flower of love,” and given corsages of orchids symbolising, “we love you as much as the sky”. Her Excellency was, “very impressed with Loro Parque and Siam Park and all the Thai architecture and sculpture”. Her joy in the surroundings at Siam Park was even more obvious during the dancing. Whilst the rest of the guests watched the artists, the Ambassador turned the other way and observed with great glee as the people slid down the Tower of Power.

During her last visit here, she accompanied the royal princess to the opening of the park. The royals have a nightly news programme so that the Thai people know what they have been doing and all over Thailand people tuned in to the amazing spectacle of Thailand in Tenerife, Siam Park. The report caused a

storm in the country and the Ambassador said that the Thai people now want to come to Tenerife to see it for themselves.

Never forgetting her role, she told us that Thai Airways is very interested in bring-

ing Thai people to Tenerife and that Spanish residents should go to Thailand. The combination of the political situation and the financial crisis means as far as she is concerned that it is an even better time to travel to Thailand than ever. Airport landing fees have been sliced, as have air fares and hotel and restaurant prices and, “you get a lot more for your Euro. We have to bring

back the confidence in our tourism.”

Referring to the recent events in Thailand, with the red shirts demonstrating on the streets of Bangkok, the Ambassador affirmed, “last week you might have watched the television with the fighting between the people of Thailand. This is because we fight for our democracy, it doesn’t affect the tourists. We all welcome the tourists and we all welcome them smiling as I am smiling to you now.

“I think many countries have overreacted. They warn people not to go to Thailand on their travel pages, but actually the fight-

ing is only between the Thai people and very localised.

It does not affect the rest of the people or the tourists.

The airport will never be closed again. The Thai government and the Thai people will never allow that to happen again. All the taxis, buses etc. all drive around the trouble, it is not necessary to go near it.

The country is still working.

People go to restaurants, the theatre and cinema.

People are going out, there is no curfew. This is for the military to sort out, the people of law and order, it does not affect the rest of us and it does not affect the tourists,” she asserted.

16

T

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

TENERIFE

he British ViceConsul was settling in to his regular afternoon game of bowls at the British Games Club when a message was sent down saying there was an urgent matter for him to attend to.

In fact the office driver, Andres, was waiting for him in the car park. He handed over a small brown envelope with the consular seal on it. Inside was a concise message from the Consul in Santa Cruz which said, “it seems we are getting Franco. Please keep your ears to the ground”.

He had heard about the troubles in Madrid where the head of the armed forces, General Franco, had tried to put pressure on the provisional government to annul the election results and to declare martial law.

But the latest information received by the Foreign Office, and passed on to him by the Consul, was interesting and possibly bad.

It meant the islands were being sent a source of mischief. Nevertheless, these were troubled times and the ideological battles going on in Madrid with a little help from the communists in Russia were also being carefully monitored by British Intelligence sources.

Earlier that month Franco had sent a communiqué to all his militar y chiefs saying that they were now in a state of war. What he meant was that, for the good of Spain, they ought to prevent the red rot taking hold. In other words he was suggesting they should par ticipate in a militar y coup. It failed because the Guardia Civil refused to be a part of it. Shortly afterwards Manuel Azaña was sworn in as president of the new Republic and, fully aware of the plot, decided to move the conspiring generals away from sensitive military regions like Zaragoza, Valencia and Oviedo. The information from British Intelligence suggested that General Franco was being sent to the Canary Islands as Commander General of the forces in the islands.

Having lost his position as Chief of Staff and upon receiving his orders to part for the Canary Islands immediately the General naturally understood he was being exiled. He therefore quickly arranged for a secret meeting with other generals, including Mola and Goded. They agreed that they should prepare a coup d’état to be captained, as soon as everything was prepared, by General Sanjurjo, at the time himself exiled in Portugal.

By all accounts General Franco played his cards very close to his chest and then

FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE HILLS

News in Brief

The other passenger

Free parking

COUNCIL PERKS

By John Young

It was late February in 1936, there was a damp north westerly breeze blowing into Puerto de la Cruz and it promised more rains.

Franco’s meeting at El Peñon golf club took place just hours before the civil war began

appeared almost too cautious from his headquarters in the Canar y Islands. Without ruling out playing a part in future conspiracies, Franco would not commit himself.

The British Vice Consul in Puerto de la Cruz, connected to ordinary civilians by means of his business and with the wealthy and aristocratic through local club members and excellent friendships made over the years, reported nothing unusual in the coming weeks. Folk on the street appeared oblivious of high manoeuvres, as peaceful as ever, but hopeful of better conditions promised by the new government.

But by the end of June the coup was practically ready and General Franco must have been convinced because British Intelligence reported that high level, secret negotiations had taken place for the hire of an aircraft which would be used to clandestinely fly Franco across to Morocco, from where the coup would be launched. The London correspondent for ABC, the right wing Spanish journal, had been instructed to hire an aeroplane, a de Havilland DH 89 Dragon Rapide which had in fact belonged to a member of the Royal Family.

The twin engine aeroplane

would be flown to Biarritz from where it would hop over to Lisbon and then stop over at Casablanca before heading for the Canar y Islands. So as not to raise any suspicion on its arrival at Gando Airport in Las Palmas the plane would be carrying

Galicia salutes France three passengers, a retired British mayor, his daughter and a friend. In return for taking the risk and for passing on an obscure message, “Galicia salutes France” to a local doctor, they were offered a free holiday in Puerto de la Cruz.

It appears, however, that there might have been another passenger on the plane. Early in July 1936, just five months after receiving that initial brief note from the Consul concerning Franco’s transfer to the islands, the British Vice Consul in Puerto may have received other instructions, this time not through the usual consu-

lar channels. It is possible he was requested to provide temporary accommodation for the other passenger and to ask no questions. From then on everything occurred ver y quickly. A Spanish looking gentleman with an English name arrived carrying a good size brown leather over-night bag and was shown to his room. It was late evening on 15th July. The Dragon Rapide had arrived at Las Palmas on the 14th, the same day on which leading monarchist politician, José Calvo Sotelo, was assassinated in Madrid, prompting a more determined and hasty attempt for a military coup. On the morning of the 16th the guest departed early, soon after being served breakfast and even before the ViceConsul’s wife took her early morning stroll through the rose garden. Leaving his over-night bag at the foot of the bed he told the lady of the house that he was going to play golf at the Peñon Golf Club in Tacoronte and that of course he would be delighted to dine with them that evening.

The other passenger, presumably the Spanish looking gentleman with the English name, never returned for dinner. In fact he simply disappeared. A few months later, if it hadn’t been for the brown leather over-night bag which the Vice-Consul’s wife had stored in one of the out rooms, it was almost as if the other passenger had never existed and had just been a figment of someone’s imagination. Nobody ever enquired about him and the Vice-Consul carried out his instructions to the letter. He asked no questions. Nevertheless, there was great deal of excitement, especially when the militar y rebellion began, and he heard rumours of an incident involving General Franco at the golf club on the very day the other passenger was supposed to be playing golf.

More conflicting r umours, which were never confirmed, suggested that the general had held a high level meeting with civilians

and other militar y commanders behind closed doors at El Peñon. During the meeting it was revealed that Franco would be depar ting immediately for Las Palmas to attend the funeral of General Amado Balmes, who had been shot in the stomach. In fact it is believed the future dictator used that as an excuse to go to Las Palmas in order to board the de Havilland Dragon Rapide which would fly him to Morocco for the start of the coup. The meeting at the golf club had been ordered to put the final regional touches to the conspiracy. It had been interrupted briefly by a noisy episode involving a gentleman suspected of being a foreign spy. The official word was that they believed, quite wrongly, that the man had been acting on behalf of the Republicans.

In fact, if he was the same Spanish looking gentleman with the English name and the brown leather over-night bag, he had most probably been sent to keep a very close eye on proceedings

by British Intelligence. How he was found out, if indeed he was, nobody will ever know . He must have made an error. Ever yone was on edge and anyone in the wrong place at the wrong time was immediately suspected of belonging to the other side. He would have been detained, taken away and possibly shot.

The Spanish Civil War began on the ver y next afternoon when the military revolt was proclaimed in Africa. Rumours that the conspiring generals were about to be arrested had forced them to act in haste.

General Franco, awaiting news in Las Palmas, was awakened in the early hours of the 18th July to be told the uprising had been a success and that the North African colony barracks at Tetuán, Ceuta and Melilla were his. He immediately put his wife and daughter on a ship bound for France and then himself got onto the Dragon Rapide which took him to North Africa to lead the revolt.

Those hard pressed councillors and workers at the Cabildo and Santa Cruz council have a new incentive, free parking.

Although the new area under the Plaza de España will not be able to cater for all of them, 10 new parking places are reserved for the Santa Cruz council and 111 for the Cabildo. In their generosity, the Cabildo have not ruled out the possibility that a small number of places may be reserved for members of the public who have to visit the Cabildo offices for permits etc.

Bicycle hire

ROUND

SUCCESS

The hire of bicycles in the Parque García Sanabria has been so successful that they are going to amplify the service.

Bikes will now be on hire from noon every weekend until 8.00 pm. The cost is just one euro an hour and the park is a lovely place to visit whether by bike or on foot. During the first year of the service 1,800 people have enjoyed fun and gentle exercise on the cycles.

Desperate measures

KIDNEY FOR SALE

A Tenerife resident is among around 30 people in Spain being investigated by the authorities for offering an organ for sale.

The tinerfeñan has offered a kidney for auction on the Internet for 120,000 euros.

She has declared her economic situation as, “desperate” and says she needs the money to emmigrate to another country with her family and start a new life. The move is totally illegal in Spain and specialists insist that the only way full safety can be guaranteed for the donor and recipient is via the legal channels.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

TENERIFE

17

PUERTO POLITICS

Tenerife Sur Lions

Don’t bully the mayor

Lion President Prakash and his wife Jyoti join the dancers

MARCOS BRITO, PUTS THE BLAME ON MAYOR LOLA PADRÓN According to the opposition leader, if the mayor of Puerto de la Cruz continues along this road, the best thing she can do for the town is to resign.

Despite over whelming evidence that the current economic crisis is putting almost every government and council in a fix, that recently was the main opposition party’s advice to the ruling group in Puerto.

The opposition’s leader and exmayor, Marcos Brito, puts the blame entirely on mayor Lola

Curry charity Tenerife Sur Lions Club held an Indian Curry Lunch recently at the newly opened Peshawri Restaurant in Palm Mar. 70 Lions, supporters and friends enjoyed a fantastic menu with lots of liquid lubrication and after the meal were entertained by the all girl Madhuri Bollywood Dancers in their traditional dress. The Lions are currently hosting 33 under-privileged children and their carers from the UK who are here for a two week holiday. If you want information about what they will be doing or where they will be going each day speak with Jim Hunter on 669 444 617.

El Sauzal

Marcos Brito suggested the mayor should resign

put the blame for the recently reported debt with Aqualia, the water company, on the nationalists, when in fact it was Marcos Brito who had to sort out the financial mess left by the previous socialist council. In other words the nationalist CC government of 1995 to 1999 was dumped with a debt of 15 million old pesetas. When they handed over to the socialist PSOE party she claims they left the council in a fairly healthy financial situation.

FAMOUS SCIENTIST

Recognition for President

Tribute to Charles Darwin This year’s international book fair in La Orotava at the end of April paid tribute to Charles Dar win with an exhibition of his life and works.

The book fair included marquees, book stands on the main square, workshops for students and school children and street theatre shows and there was a special section dedicated to Dar win with illustrations from a private collection and examples of 19th century English publications. Tenerife had been on

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Darwin’s mind since his days as a student at Cambridge and numerous letters reveal his desire to study the unique nature of the island’s plant life of which he had heard so much about in the works of famous German scientist, Alexander von Humboldt.

One of his first destinations aboard H.M.S. Beagle would have been Tenerife in 1832.

Unfortunately, the local authorities suspected there was an outbreak of cholera on the Beagle and all Darwin could do was to contemplate Ten-

erife and Mount Teide from the anchored ship which soon parted to cross the Atlantic.

As Moorhead admitted in his book, The Voyage of the Beagle, Darwin was bitterly disappointed not to have been able to witness what had so impressed Humboldt, the beauty of the Orotava Valley before man’s progress began to devastate it towards the end of the 20th century. His absence was also a blow for the island’s own scientific community, as recorded by the island press of the time,

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Darwin was very disappointed that he couldn’t land on Tenerife

which said that they had been denied the visit of one of the greatest scientists of all time.

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Paulino Rivero, the Canary Islands President, was reminded of his 28 years as mayor of the northern town of El Sauzal on 24th April during an emotional tribute paid to him at the indoor sports hall at Ravelo.

Before he took the step up to become a senior member of the regional government a decade ago he had been the youngest mayor in Spain and his period at the helm in El Sauzal has often been recognised, even by opponents, as a period of growth and stability.

From humble backgrounds he had the spirit and combative nature, as he himself suggested, to bring change to the town. Rivero received a special tribute from Ricardo Melchior, President of the Cabildo, who referred to him as an exemplary Canarian and a good friend with qualities hard to find in these times of crisis.

So

Padrón, the first ever woman at the helm, for the current state of apparent paralysis in almost every project and policy. He was backed up by his economics spokeswoman, Sandra Rodriguez. Retaliating to recent socialist claims that the reported vast council debts had been inherited in fact from their predecessors in power, the nationalists, she said that in just two years Padrón had wiped out all the council’s savings. How dare the socialists, she continued,

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18

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

TENERIFE

TENERIFE

Gardens

Volcano controversy reignites A WARNING OF VOLCANIC ACTIVITY IN TENERIFE BY A SENIOR SCIENTIST HAS REIGNITED THE CONTROVERSY OVER THE THREAT OF FRESH ERUPTIONS ON THE ISLAND. The row broke out when Alicia García, who works for the Spanish Research Council in Madrid, gave a media interview in which she said that the scientific community was concerned at the level of seismic activity and at Tenerife’s vulnerability in the event of an eruption of one of its volcanoes.

Her views prompted a formal protest by the head of the Tenerife Cabildo, Ricardo Melchior, who took the unusual step of writing to her bosses to complain at the alarm generated by the “unfounded statement”.

The Cabildo subsequently issued a statement, “Mount Teide is a dormant volcano and shows no signs of volcanic activity according to ITER; (the institute that manages volcanic surveillance and which is a member of WOVO, World Organisation of Volcanic Observatories).

“In addition, neither the Scientific Volcanic Evaluation and Monitor Committee (Comite Cientifico de Evaluacion y Seguimiento de Fenomenos Volcanicos), a national commission that

Mount Teide is a dormant volcano and is likely to stay that way for the foreseeable future

evaluates volcanic activity in Spain, nor the IGN (National Geographic Institute), a public organisation responsible for the observation, surveillance and communication of volcanic activity, have sent a warning of volcanic activity in Teide to the authorities responsible for civil protection on the island. We therefore must highlight that the volcanic situation

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in Tenerife remains normal, as there is no indication of any volcanic risk.”

The statement adds that president Ricardo Melchior has submitted a written complaint to the Superior Council of Scientific Investigation regarding “the contradictory and incorrect information released by certain scientists of this organisation”, which could

lead the public to believe that there is a risk of volcanic activity in Tenerife.

The Cabildo stress that Tenerife remains a safe destination, not only because there is currently no evidence of any risk of volcanic activity, but also because the island is equipped to deal with any volcanic risk situation (evacuation, volcanic surveillance and

monitoring programme, etc.) that may arise. They also used the controversy to reiterate their calls for Spain to create a formal body in the Canaries to monitor the volcanoes. The latest row coincides with the 100th anniversar y of the last major eruption of Tenerife’s Chinyero volcano in November 1909.

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GROW YOUR OWN

Getting the plot Schoolchildren in Tenerife are to be given the chance to learn how to grow their own vegetables under the Department of Education’s latest green initiative.

Teachers from a number of schools on the island recently attended a course in Tegueste delivered by one of the biggest names in market-garden planning, Majorca-based Gaspar Caballero, and it is hoped they will soon pass on their newly-acquired knowledge to pupils.

The idea is to turn parts of school grounds into vegetable plots which will be tended by the pupils directly, under the supervision of their teachers. However, growing food is not the only aim pursued: the pupils will also be encouraged to propose ideas to manage the plots economically and seek outlets for the produce grown.

The Department says it also wants to use the interest in the plots to encourage children to think about natural resource use and to perform their own mathematical calculations to work out how much water and other materials are needed for the day-to-day running of the gardens.

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ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

TENERIFE

19

CAREERS TRADE FAIR

Adeje

Looking to the future

Adeje centre

Music, jobs and Plaza España At a number of local meetings with students, teachers, business representatives and residents of Adeje, the borough’s mayor José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, and the councillor for municipal works Gonzalo Delgado Díaz presented details of the plans for the new music school, the restructuring of the Plaza España and the expansion of the town’s cultural centre.

THE FIRST CAREERS TRADE FAIR IN SOUTH TENERIFE TOOK PLACE RECENTLY WITH THE ADEJE CULTURAL CENTRE AS THE HUB OF THE MANY ACTIVITIES.

The two town representatives visited different centres within Adeje to present the plans, the realisation of which will be funded by the State, and should also, according to the mayor, create over 400 jobs, at least half of these to come from within the borough who are officially registered as unemployed. As well as creating employment, the developments will also see movement of funds within Adeje, with an undertaking that 30 per cent of materials earmarked for the projects are to be purchased in the zone, and, as was pointed out, the work itself will see movement within the local economy in the areas of transport, service providers, restaurants and bars, etc.

The new music school will be located in the Las Torres part of Adeje, in front of the new police station, and should be complete in just over a year’s time. The design of the new school meets all of the requirements of an education facility of this nature with sound-proofed classrooms as well as a large auditorium (with a separate entrance) within the three storey building.

Adeje mayor Rodríguez Fraga visits one of the stands at the Careers Trade Fair

Created in response to a demand from secondary schools in Adeje, the fair, which lasted three days, saw thousands of students, teachers and parents from all over South Tenerife visit stands and spend time with professionals from a whole range of trades.

And given the current economic climate, and the most recent unemployment statistics from the region showing a dispropor tionately high number of unemployed peo

The plans for the Plaza España, will see an increase in size from 700 to 3,000 square metres and the incorporation of a viewing area which will also double as a stage during local fiestas. A second phase will also see the construction of a museum. Work on this part of the town’s renovation should be completed within 10 months. The streets in the same zone will be widened and a parking zone with space for up to 200 cars on the Calle Los Molinos is also envisaged.

ple are without primary level qualifications, it was perhaps not too surprising to see a high interest from those attending in professional training and education.

Information was on offer regarding a huge range of careers – nursing, mechanical engineering, information technology, sports education, gardening, security and life saving, cooker y, hostelr y, marketing, business administration – and the event offered,

in the words of Adeje’s education councillor Epifanio Díaz Hernández, “a dynamic and modern meeting point which allowed students to see at first hand the world of work”, but also let them explore the resources available and the work offers on the table.

According to mayor Rodríguez Fraga given the large number of young people living in South Tenerife, this was of particular benefit to them.

The event, as well as showing

interested students the type of training they could pursue for their chosen profession, was also designed to stimulate a healthy curiosity and a desire for further education among the learning population.

It was also an ideal meeting point for teachers and professionals, who were able to talk shop and look at the balance between experience and demand within the work place as it relates to courses on offer.

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20

Business NEWS

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

UNEMPLOYMENT

Business in Brief >

Canaries fares worst

DRIVING

Fewer cars

The latest unemployment figures in Spain are disastrous with over four million now looking for work and the Canar y Islands heads the list of unemployed with 26.1 per cent of the population on the dole.

It is the first time in Spanish history that unemployment has topped four million and as the president asks for patience whilst the measures set in place begin to take effect, the opposition parties are in full cry with their usual messages of doom and gloom. There are now 280,600 people looking for work in the Canaries and the Tenerife Chamber of Commerce has warned that if there is not an immediate action plan put into effect, up to 30 per cent of Canarian residents could end up on the dole queue.

Particularly worrying are the figures relating to the under 25s. At a national average of 35.66 per cent, almost two in five of the Spanish unemployed fall into this age bracket and the Canaries once again heads the list of unemployed in this sector with a frightening 47 per cent out of work in the first quarter according to the latest active population questionnaire.

Organisations like Caritas, who help those in desperate straits, are over whelmed with demand and a new report from a Canarian peace movement has warned that one in three Canarian residents will be living under the poverty line by the end of 2009.

The professor of applied economics at the University of La Laguna, JosĂŠ Luis Rivero, cautioned that one of the

Credit:Ian White

THE CANARY ISLANDS HEADS THE LIST OF UNEMPLOYMENT

MORE FLIGHTS

French connections The number of people under the poverty line is increasing

reasons for the increase in the number of people under the poverty line is that to begin with 16 per cent were living on, or only just above that line.

With thousands coming to the end of their right to collect unemployment benefit every month, the situation is not expected to

improve in the short term.

The new finance minister, Elena Salgado, admitted that the first quarter’s unemployment figures are, “bad and worse than expected� but showed confidence that from April there would be a clear change and the rate at which people joined the

SPECIAL SUPPORT NEEDED

Family businesses A financial expert has pleaded for special assistance from the authorities for family businesses.

According to the professor of Economy and Business Management from Las Palmas University, MarĂ­a Katiuska Cabrera, family firms are facing the same economic setbacks as the rest of the businesses, with reduction of credit lines, a

downturn in their client’s confidence and therefore demand and in addition, “they have to face other aspects which are a result of their organisation as a family business, which affect them in a particular way and make the development of the business more difficult�.

Her solution is that the companies concerned use the slowdown as a time to make plans for the future,

to analyse the plans long term and make the company more professional, and weigh up the businesses from the perspective of new strategies. It is a particularly important time to concentrate more on the clients and their needs, on the evolution of the markets, practice financial prudence and avoid getting into debt unless you have absolute certainty that your invest-

ment will be profitable.

Juan Fuentes, Managing Director of Atlantis CommunicaciĂłn announced that it was a shame that some families lived for the company and some live of f the company, “the second type ruins the business and in the end has a short future. Family firms only share out 25 per cent of their yearly profits, the rest is churned back into

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A third of drivers no longer use their car every day in efforts to save money.

The Spanish foundation for safe driving carried out a study called Spanish drivers facing the crisis and found that 28 per cent of those interviewed especially young people and women, admit that they now use the car less frequently and make fewer journeys. Car sharing is 16 per cent more popular and less is being spent on petrol and maintenance.

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unemployment queue would decelerate. She firmly ruled out suggestions that the number of unemployed would reach five million, but it has to be said that so far the economic forecasts of this government over the crisis have not been very accurate.

the company to ensure the lasting profitability of the company for the maximum number of generations,� he explained.

The president of the association of family businesses in the Canaries, Antonio FernĂĄndez LĂłpez, underlined the lack of administration support for these companies and asked that not all businesses be treated alike. The continued restriction of credit to these companies which provide 70 per cent of the employment and 26 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product could be fatal he warned.

The fusion of Clickair with Vueling has opened promising prospects for the Islands.

Despite the crisis, Vueling’s president, Josep PiquĂŠ, announced that they, “could still do plenty of things and from the point of view of the Canaries, manyâ€?. Their current ight programme is to be maintained and they are looking at establishing new routes, “if the numbers come out right,â€? with European capitals and in particular with Paris.

COPYRIGHT

Internet charges The president of Spain’s authors’ rights society, Eduardo Bautista, has suggested that companies who supply access to Internet should pay them part of the fee to cover the artists’ part of music and ďŹ lms that are downloaded from the Web. “The telephone companies are the ones who know the amount of our material that Internet users download so it is logical that they should be the ones to charge the fee agreed for copyright,â€? claimed Bautista. The income of the copyright society fell 11.5 per cent last year to 334 million euros.

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ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

BUSINESS

GLOBAL OVERVIEW

The world economy JOHN BRUTON, THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION’S AMBASSADOR TO THE UNITED STATES AND EX IRISH PRIME MINISTER RECENTLY ATTENDED A PRESENTATION BY CARMINE DI NOIA

J

ohn Bruton, the European Commission’s Ambassador to the United States and ex Irish Prime Minister who was oversaw the beginnings of the development of the Celtic Tiger (the rapid and vast growth in the Irish economy) recently attended a presentation

by Carmine Di Noia, an Italian economist to the EU and US lawmakers.

He claims that the evidence in Di Noia’s paper suggests that the present crisis was both predictable, and predicted. Bruton explains, “three well-known factors foreshadowed the problem – global financial imbalances, unduly high stock values relative to earnings, and high levels of debt”.

John Bruton, European Commission’s Ambassador to the United States with George Bush

markets in the countries that were willing to borrow the surplus funds.”

Global financial imbalances

High stock values relative to earnings

“Some countries spent more abroad than they were earning, while others built up huge pools of surplus savings. These imbalances became a factor of instability in global finance. They have been known and written about for years. The surplus savings had to find a home and they contributed to bubbles in both the stock and housing

“If prices are very high relative to earnings, as they were in recent years, that is a clear sign that a bubble economy is in the making. In December 1999, the Standard and Poor’s shares index showed that the shares quoted in that index were selling at 44 times their yearly earnings, the highest ever price that shares were making

relative to earnings. There has been a decline in share values since 1999 but Carmine Di Noia added that, notwithstanding the recent fall in the market, share values are still now as high relative to earnings as the value of shares were prior to the 1929 crash.”

High debt levels “Meanwhile, personal and corporate indebtedness grew to unprecedentedly high levels in some countries. For example, US debts (mainly private) surpassed 350 per cent of GDP (Gross Domestic

Product), and UK debts (also mainly private) topped 450 per cent of GDP. “So, as Di Noia put it, the decision to let Lehman Brothers go bankrupt ‘detonated a banking crisis that had in all likelihood become inevitable’. A herd instinct, generated by conventional wisdom, had prevented most people from seeing the evidence that was in front of their eyes.

“As far as banks were concerned, he said that, ‘there is plenty of evidence that the dangers of excessive risk-taking were often spotted perfectly well by

risk-control managers, but their opinion was promptly swept under the carpet.’

And he went on to claim that national (banking super vision) authorities ‘closed both eyes’ to the accumulated imbalances in their own banks, in order to let them compete successfully on the world stage.

Increasing market share became more important than anything else.

“My own sense is that the present readjustment of borrowing and consumption patterns in the western world is both necessary and inevitable. Painful as it is, it is actually better that it is happening now, rather than in five years time, and it would have been much less painful if we had made the adjustment three or four years ago!

“Dr. Di Noia was skeptical about the need to have detailed Government regulation of every type of financial activity. The essential thing, in his view, was to ensure that banks, that are deemed to be ‘too big to fail’ or which enjoy actual or implicit state guarantees of their deposits, are prevented from using their depositors’ money to take capital risks on the markets, and are encouraged instead to use it to make what he called ‘boring, but safer,

21

commercial loans’. In other words, bankers should get back to basics, and let others do the speculative activity on the markets. Dr. Di Noia also urged that the risk management people in a bank (the people whose job it is to say ‘No’ to certain high risk deals) should be made completely independent of the rest of the top management in the bank.”

These issues are also covered in the Global Financial Stability Report issued by the International Monetar y Fund recently.

Bruton rounds up the report as expressing, “the fear that Governments may be reluctant to allocate enough resources to putting their banking system back on a sound footing because of political resistance to “bailing out bankers”. And uncertainty about political reactions may in turn make private investors reluctant to put their money in.”

He explains that, “the IMF calls for early action to distinguish viable from non-viable banks, with a view to enabling the non-viable banks to be merged or wound down in an orderly way. If non-viable banks continue to absorb resources without resolving their basic problems, that will postpone the economic recovery.”

Br uton believes that, “close attention should be paid to what the IMF now says. It has been willing, in the past, to say the things that people did not want to hear. For example, I looked up their August 2003 report on Ireland, a country that now has difficulties arising from a housing bubble. Almost six years ago, the IMF was warning Ireland that ‘the spectacular increase in house prices and credit to households inevitably raises the risk that prices may unwind, possibly abruptly’.

It drew attention to the fact that house prices were outstripping rents. The IMF thus foresaw, five years ago, what unfolded last year.”

22

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

BUSINESS

AIR PASSENGER DUTY

Financial upturn?

Travel costs Senior members of the travel industr y reacted badly after the UK government failed to cancel plans for a rise in Air Passenger Duty.

The British Chancellor, Alistair Darling, made no mention of the travel tax in his recent Budget announcements but travel agents, ABTA, airlines and other sectors of the industry had urged him to scrap the tax altogether or at least cancel the rises due this November and in 2010.

They have produced what they believe to be irrefutable evidence to show the negative impact the tax has caused the tourism industry but the UK Government has refused to back down.

Mark Tanzer, ABTA chief executive, announced, “this unfair tax already costs air travellers from the UK two billion pounds and covers its environmental costs. This holiday tax represents a heavy and growing burden on families at a time when they are being forced to reconsider whether they can afford to take a wellearned break. As one of the few successful sectors in the UK economy, the Government has targeted

the travel industr y to plunder, without regard to the damaging impact to jobs.” He confirmed that ABTA will continue to challenge the tax and the inconsistencies. “The rise in APD to destinations such as the Caribbean, dependent on tourism, will be as much as 87 per cent, equating to a tax bill of £600 for a family of four travelling to the Caribbean in premium economy in 2010 compared with today’s £160. A survey by one of the UK’s largest tour operators shows that 22 per cent of passengers travelling to the Caribbean have a household income of less than £25,000.”

Toby Nicol, easyJet’s communications director complained, “last year the Chancellor bottled the planned reform of Air Passenger Duty which would have made it a fairer, greener tax and instead simply announced a huge tax raid on hard-working families while continuing to exempt private jets and cargo planes”.

The APD for flights into Europe will go up by 10 per cent increasing to £11 this year and £12 in 2010. The UK’s key tourism market,

the USA, will see the tax rise up to £60 by next year and will also of course affect those of us who use the UK as a springboard for USA holidays. Long haul flights of over 6,000 miles will see a rise from £40 to £85 per flight by 2010 and business trips will be severely penalised with taxes on flights above economy rising up to £170 from 2010.

The Chancellor’s silence on plans over the APD were aggravated several days later when plans to triple the industr y levy for the ATOL passenger protection scheme were revealed. The industr y is likely to call for a reform of the whole scheme in the wake of the

Confidence improves Civil Aviation Authority’s announcement. As far as the Canaries is concerned, none of the proposed increases are good news in an archipelago with tourism as its main industr y and which relies almost 100 per cent on flights to bring in that tourism, especially from the UK which remains the major market. More empty seats or fewer flights could well be the result.

UK taxes could cause more empty seats

New business

Investment opportunities A new forum is to be set up to put prospective investors in touch with new projects which need finance.

Run jointly by the Canarian Government, the University of La Laguna and the Chamber of Commerce, the idea is that individuals and groups of investors should step in where the banks now fear to tread and fund new projects. The new projects need funds to grow and investors are looking at ways of getting good returns, the new forum will put one group in direct contact with the other. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce on 922 100 400 or email aflores@camaratenerife.com.

Mortgages

IRPF

Tax returns The bor rador or rough draft of Spanish residents’ tax returns has become the most important way of fulfilling our tax obligations.

In just six years the confirmation of the tax office’s draft accounts for four out of five of the tax returns in Spain. However it does need checking as

After 18 months of continuous falls, confidence among the business sector in the Canaries is showing signs of improvement, although it is too early to predict a sustained upturn in fortunes, say experts.

The Chambers of Commerce in Tenerife and Las Palmas say the improved outlook expressed by companies in the islands may be a sign that the crisis has bottomed out, although the perception differs markedly between the two provinces, with Las Palmas recording a higher level of confidence.

Pilar Alcaine, a senior figure at the Las Palmas Chamber, welcomed the findings of the latest confidence survey but stressed that, “we will need to wait for a few more months to see if the trend consolidates, in which case we might be seeing an end to the tunnel”. Her counterpart in Tenerife, Vicente Dorta, stressed that a nationwide survey of businesses revealed that 78 per cent were still experiencing difficulties in securing financing from banks.

there are many mistakes and some allowances which can only be confirmed by the individuals. Many of those who confirmed the draft will already have received their tax rebate by the time the rest of the country are able to submit their tax returns on May 4th.

Novelties this year include the abolition of the wealth

tax. Patrimony still has to be declared but the tax is zero. Those who didn’t receive the 400 euros back in lower tax payments in the second half of last year have to apply for it via their tax return. In addition to the tax back from the Canaries for those in rented accommodation, the state has also set up a rebate for those with a tax base below a certain level. Those with a tax base of 12,000 euros or less receive a deduction of 10.05 per cent on rent of up to 9,015 euros. The

percentage drops the higher the income and disappears at 24,021 euros.

In addition the Canarian Government has added an extra deduction for those of us suffering from the increases in the interbank lending rate last year.

As a general r ule, it is better to make a joint declaration if one of the partners doesn’t work and doesn’t earn more than the personal or family minimum.

In most other cases it is more beneficial to make individual tax returns.

Fairer conditions The Spanish Government has done away with what they considered an abusive rule in mortgage conditions.

Until the change, if a client got a more attractive offer from another bank they could not move their mortgage if their existing bank argued that they, “have the intention” of equalling the conditions.

On far too many occasions the bank didn’t come through with the ‘intended’ improvement and the client continued tied to the more expensive mortgage without the legal possibility of change. Now the move can only be denied if the existing bank can, “truly equal or better the conditions that the second body have offered”. They are also obliged to present the new offer within 10 days.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

I

n the run-up to the G20 summit, UK prime minister, Gordon Brown and US president, Barack Obama both made their feelings known that they were determined to bring tax havens into line and make them tax transparent. Prior to the summit there was a lot of advance warning that the crackdown on tax havens would be a priority.

Brown called for a multilateral exchange of information that would provide minimum standards for all.

He said that there would be a crackdown on tax havens to prevent the loss of sorely needed tax revenue.

“We have agreed tough standards and sanctions for use against those who don’t come into line in the future”.

The G20 leaders stated that “the era of banking secrecy is over” and called for a list of countries that fell short of international standards to be published.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) immediately issued a progress report on such jurisdictions.

The pressure being put on tax havens along with the

23

Banking secrecy and G20 ERA OF BANKING SECRECY IS ‘OVER’ AS TAX HAVENS BOW TO G20 PRESSURE Credit: www.kremlin.ru

By Bill Blevins, Financial Correspondent, Blevins Franks

Financial

By Bill Blevins

The G20 leaders stated that the era of banking secrecy was over

fear of being blacklisted and facing sanctions has caused many offshore financial jurisdictions to think again about compliance.

Some tax havens, including Switzerland, began to announce plans to conform even before the G20 summit took place. Since the G20 meeting, Swiss bank UBS

has issued a global travel ban for more than 1,000 of its US banking staff.

This follows a previous US court summons issued to UBS to hand over details of up to 17,000 US clients suspected of evading US tax. The ban will prevent UBS bankers from travelling to the US or elsewhere

Electricity supply

Monopoly ends From July 1st Canarian residents have a choice of electricity supplier.

The long monopoly held by Unelco comes to an end with the implementation of new legislation and new tariffs. There are already several companies registered to tempt households and businesses away from Unelco from mid summer including Iberdrola and Union Fenosa.

Also from this date, the government will

cease to set the prices of the electricity supply. It is to be hoped that the end of the monopoly will mean a better service and more competitive pricing.

The new pricing system will allow a wide range of companies to operate in the islands and allow consumers to choose the offer they consider most adapted to their needs. For electricity consumption of less than 10 kilowatts, the state will continue to set maximum and minimum levels but not the exact price.

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for fear of being involved in a tax evasion investigation. Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man now hold Tax Information Exchange Agreements (TIEAs) with many of their major economic partners.

Gibraltar has recently signed its first TIEA with the US and has been phasing out its ‘offshore’ regime.

Liechtenstein is ready to negotiate bilateral agreements with other countries. Monaco has agreed to negotiate exchange of information agreements with all countries that wish to do so.

World governments have been stepping up the pressure on tax havens over recent years.

The issue came to a head with the G20 summit and tax havens realised that they have to conform and are taking positive steps to do so.

The era of banking secrecy is indeed virtually over and soon there will be no financial jurisdiction where capital can be hidden from taxation. However, there are legitimate structures avail-

able where capital can be placed which can minimise your tax liability and where funds have the opportunity to grow. Capital can also be protected from the risks of holding it in a bank account whether onshore or offshore. Blevins Franks is an authorised and regulated financial adviser with over 30 years experience in these matters.

They will be able to answer all your questions on how to lower your tax bill through a legal of fshore arrangement and recommend a por tfolio tailor-made for your specific financial needs.

To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www. blevinsfranksinternational.com

24

Living & Lifestyle

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Beauty

Microcurrent

By Nicola Roberts

THROUGHOUT HISTORY, WOMEN HAVE STRIVED FOR ‘PERFECTION’ IN THE NAME OF BEAUTY.

As the phenomenon continues to gain pace, record numbers of women are asking for non-invasive ways to look younger. This has led to microcurrent treatments becoming more and more popular than ever.

Anti-ageing is big business and the past five years have seen an increase in

women’s spending of more than 30 per cent on trying to turn back the clock. Celebrities are constantly seen to be promoting particular treatments and products which in turn promote longer living, while succeeding and looking spectacular at the same time!

Many women now consider anti-ageing treatments to be as routine as leg waxing or manicure.

Microcurrent was discovered almost 30 years ago in the treating of postoperative scar tissue, as with many of the successful beauty and body treatments their worth was proven within the medical industry many years ago. Wounds heal quicker

Comp leme glass ntary cham of pagn e

thanks to increased blood circulation which is achieved with microcurrent. In terms of product penetration, electrical current allows the product to work at a deeper level in the skin. There are also the positive effects on post-surgery tissue, for example redness, irritation and inflammation can be reduced when treated with microcurrent, the build-up of hardened collagen that makes up scar tissue was also found to be reduced by three to five times in tissue treated with microcurrent.

This then gives microcurrent a definite place in the field of plastic surger y, any procedure will

have greater success if it is preceded by a course of microcurrent as muscle and tissue condition is improved, while treatment of stitches and sutures decreases the healing time and provides improved general healing ability of scar tissue.

How can this super technology support us in the battle against ageing? In simple terms, microcurrent reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improves the skin’s texture and general appearance and reduces the overall visual appearance of ageing. Microcurrent mimics the body’s natural electrical rhythms.

Our brain constantly sends

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n today’s modern world thankfully we can now turn to technology to regain and gain our fountain of youth. The microcurrent is the most significant breakthrough in the last few years and continues to prove itself in the vicious anti-ageing market.

messages and impulses to muscles and tissues, but as we age these signals become weaker as the body’s machinery slows down – the muscles start to age and skin begins to deteriorate. Microcurrent has the ability to speed up tissue and cell activity and help correct them.

tions are not too high. For example if you have been a heavy smoker for many years with deep lines, you will definitely not see the same results as your non-smoking friend of the same age who has taken better care of her skin and leads a healthier lifestyle.

It heals the tissues so that a visible result can be seen after just one treatment. The skin will tighten and lines and wrinkles will soften because all cellular activity has been stimulated.

It enhances the body’s own natural electrical rhythms so that in turn the ageing process is delayed.

Although the level of electrical current used in microcurrent devices is minimal, there are some contraindications to consider; pace makers, epilepsy, pregnancy, phlebitis, thrombosis and anybody who may be allergic to any of the products used alongside the treatment.

Muscle re-education is used for facial and body toning, and with the antiageing era, facial toning is extremely popular. There are 32 different muscles in the face that are manipulated during the average microcurrent facial treatment. Most microcurrent machines offer programmes to include cell regeneration and lymphatic drainage. With the right equipment and a good, well qualified therapist, cell regeneration can provide visible improvements. Usually, with any microcurrent therapy a course of 10 to 12 treatments is recommended, followed by a maintenance programme.

As mentioned, results should be seen after just one treatment, in many salons a trial consultation will be offered whereby only one half of the face will be treated so that the client will be able to see the dramatic results.

During the hour long treatment a device will be programmed to the client’s needs and requirements, the machine will be dedicated to the needs of the individual; combinations can include deep tissue muscle stimulation and penetration of products specifically formulated for each client’s requirements, needs and preferences. A programme of anti-ageing microcurrent treatments is cost effective and few risks are entailed, it offers a viable alternative to going under the knife, making it a very attractive option.

Usually, a probe or electric gloves will be used to physically move the muscle to the desired position to perform what is known as muscle re-education – the process of lengthening or shortening muscles.

Working from the centre of the muscle will have a lengthening effect to an area which has become increasingly contracted thanks to years of facial expressions. And working the muscle from its starting point inward will have a shortening effect on those that have been affected by age and gravity. These techniques are also used by facial massage therapists.

Therapists may recommend a change of lifestyle and this will probably be tactfully discussed during the initial consultation. It is important to ensure expecta-

The need for these types of treatments is increasing and the demand for the non-invasive approach has definitely found and established its place in the anti-ageing marketplace.

The fight against ageing is a seemingly never ending trend that is here to stay, consumer demand for a miracle non-surgical treatment that really succeeds in turning back the clock means that today’s salon can confidently offer the microcurrent treatment to clients and should not be underestimated as they can positively offer a significant difference in the role of ‘turning back the hands of time’.

*Nicola Roberts is the owner of Bellissima Hair and Beauty in Los Gigantes and San Eugenio Alto.

For information or appointments please call 922 867 343 or 922 719 355.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

LIVING & LIFESTYLE

25

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EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

LIVING & LIFESTYLE

House Calls with HouseCalls Dr. De La Flor healthytenerife@gmail.com

Dear Doctor My father had colon polyps, should I be scared?

RICHARD

Dear Richard, No. You should be attentive and proactive but not scared.

As you know, colon polyps are growths in your large intestine (colon). The cause of most colon polyps is not known, but they are common in adults. Most colon polyps are benign, not cancerous.

But some growths can turn into colon cancer. If a colon polyp is the kind that can turn into cancer, it usually takes many years for that to happen.

Experts recommend that ever yone age 50 or older have a screening test to look for colon polyps. Finding and removing colon polyps can

prevent colon cancer. They usually don’t cause symptoms and are usually found during routine screening tests for colon cancer. However if polyps get large, they can cause symptoms – you may have bleeding from your rectum or a change in your bowel habits. A change in bowel habits includes diarrhea, constipation, going

to the bathroom more often or less often than usual, or a change in the way your stool looks.

The screening tests for colon cancer are: fecal occult blood test, barium enema; the barium outlines the inside of the colon so that it can be seen on an X-ray, colonoscopy; doctors can

view and if necessary also remove polyps during this test and scan. It is true that you are more likely to have colon polyps if: you are over 50, colon polyps run in your family, or you inherited a certain gene that causes you to develop polyps.

Make sure you talk to your doctor about your need to be tested, as well as the need to gather a thorough family and personal history. A lot can be done because a great deal is under your control. Sound nutritional habits are at the very top. If you have certain digestive conditions, make sure your GP prepares you an easy-to-follow nutritional plan. The only exception is those that have a familiar gene where the cancer runs in the family - that type thank God, is rare.

Dear Doctor, I’ve never tried acupuncture, but am curious. Do you recommend acupunc-

ture for arthritis and other conditions?

Sincerely, VIVIAN

Dear Vivian, I strongly recommend whatever works for any patient. A patient is a person, and as such, brings with him/her a set of preferences, likes and dislikes, upbringing…. For some patients acupuncture works, and for others does not.

It is tr ue that to ease ar thritis pain, you do not necessarily have to rely solely on pain killers and steroids; there are a few alternative treatments that may help you find relief, one of them being acupuncture.

Acupuncture is thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of chemicals that block pain, called endorphins.

Many acu-points are near ner ves. When stimulated, these ner ves cause a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the muscle. The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central ner vous system, causing the release of endorphins.

Endorphins, along with other neurotransmitters (substances that car r y infor mation), block the message of pain from being delivered up to the brain.

SEVERAL HELPFUL TIPS: - Make your GP aware of the therapies you are using.

- Do n ’ t r e l y solely on acupuncture for treatment of chronic or serious illness.

- Find a knowledgeable and humble therapist.

- When it’s performed with disposable needles under clean, sterile conditions, it is highly unusual to have any complications.

For me, a benefit of acupuncture is that it is a drug-free way to minimise pain. With drugs, people often develop the need for an increased dosage to achieve the same required effect. However, this does not happen with acupuncture. In addition, acupuncture allows the doctor to immediately examine a person’s response to the treatment and adjust it if necessary.

Dr. De La Flor, G.P. is licensed in medicine & general surgery. He holds certificates in nutrition, medical exercise and human performance from the University of Berkeley in California, the American Council on Exercise and the U.S. National Strength & Conditioning Association.

He is a strong believer in work/life balance and spends much of his time outside of his surgery on the tennis court or chasing his four kids around the neighborhood.

HealthyLiving

By Adina Fraticelli

Small changes for big results THERE ARE COUNTLESS HEALTH BENEFITS THAT MAKE IT WORTHWHILE TO LIVE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE, BUT LET’S FACE IT, SOMETIMES THAT JUST ISN’T ENOUGH FOR US TO GET OURSELVES IN GEAR.

T

he reality is, even the most grounded of us will admit (if we’re really honest) that we are at least the tiniest bit vain.

While extra curves may make those jeans that we were filling out all winter look good, those same curves don’t look quite as alluring in a bikini.

Now’s the time to get a grip and get ready for all those summer clothes that reveal just a bit more skin. Small tweaks to the diet can result in major changes.

Keep things simple and make just one small change at a time. Breakfast is the perfect place to start. Sitting down to eat this important meal – if you don’t already – can be your first intervention.

Numerous studies have shown that as ironic as it seems, skipping breakfast is linked to overweight and obesity. If you already are in the habit of eating breakfast, the next change is even easier to implement. The next time

you are at the grocery store, head to the cereal aisle and start reading the labels. You should look for one that contains approximately five grams of fibre per serving.

Round out your bowl of cereal with fat-free milk and fruit.

Now you have a meal that takes about a minute to prepare yet delivers protein, complex carbohydrates, calcium, fibre and antioxidants. You couldn’t ask for an easier and more complete meal than that.

For lots of people, dinnertime is the place to cut back. Again, just the act of sitting down to eat this meal will signal your brain that you are filling up and not just snacking.

Eating while standing at the counter or in front of the television will always feel like snacking no matter how much food you consume, unlike purposely sitting at the table and being conscious about the meal in front of you.

Another small change that will lead to big results over time is regularly having a salad before eating your mail meal. Fill a big bowl with leafy green vegetables and toss in a couple of other types of vegetables and fruits before lightly drizzling it with olive oil and lemon juice. By the time you’re done with that, your appetite will be curbed

and you will be far less likely to overindulge. One area of the diet that many people don’t give much thought to is what we consume in liquid form.

Liquid calories can be a diet buster since beverages can really increase your daily caloric intake without much notice at all. A can of soda pop contains roughly 140

calories and a standard can of beer has 150 calories. When you consider that consuming an extra 3,500 calories will increase your weight by one pound, you realise just how easy it is to gain or lose weight by doing nothing more than watching your liquid intake.

For lasting success, the key is to make your changes A salad before your main meal will help curb your appetite

livable over the long-term.

Pick one area of your diet to change at a time and gradually make the adjustments. If you attempt to change too much, too quickly you risk not being able to stick with the changes and ending up right back where you started. What’s the use of all that effort, if you don’t end up with anything to show for it?

Adina Fraticelli is a certified Fitness Nutrition Coach and creates personalized diet plans.

Unlike many dieticians and nutritionists who view healthy eating in a purely pragmatic manner, Adina loves good food and encourages a balanced approach to enjoying the pleasures of sensible eating.

If you think you’ve tried every diet plan out there to no avail, you owe it to yourself to call.

Adina can coach you through the process of reaching and maintaining your ideal weight.

Consultations can be scheduled at 637-245-270.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Shiatsu

Health Directory Hospitals HOSPITAL LA CANDELARIA Carretera Del Rosario 145 Santa Cruz de Tenerife 922 602 000 hospitaldelacandelaria. com HOSPITAL UNIVERSITARIO DE CANARIAS Carretera Cuesta-Taco San Cristobal de La Laguna (Tenerife), 922 678 000 huc.es

DIAL 112 Emergency Doctor DOCTOR DE LA FLOR Calle Tinerfe El Grande 9, Adeje 697 888 666 (Doctor), 637 245 270 Family medicine, home or hotel visits

Health SHIATSU Tel: 636 239940 T r eatment for poor circulation, pain, aches and cramps www.me-reliefnews.com

COSTA ADEJE HOSPITAL Urb. San Eugenio.

Edif Garajonay Adeje Tel.: 922 752 626 Fax: 922 753 636 HOSPITEN SUR Playa de Las Américas Arona-Tenerife Tel.: 922 75 00 22.

Fax: 922 79 36 18 HOSPITEN BELLEVUE C/ Alemania, 6 Urb. San Fernando.

Puerto de la Cruz Tel.: 922 38 35 51 Fax: 922 37 03 12

ORTOPEDIA tel: 922 812 807 Ctra. Gral, Orotava-Icod 41 bajo, Las Mancha, Icod de Los Vinos Specialist shop for or thopaedic needs.

English spoken BELLISIMA Sports Centre, Los Gigantes. Tel: 922 719355 Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm. Osteopathy, acupuncture, Reiki, reflexology, chiropody and holistic massage

Dentist

Gran Canaria

DENTAL CLINIC FAÑABE PLAZA CC Fañabe Plaza, Avda. Bruselas 2nd floor, Playa Fañabé Tel: 922 714225 All treatments pain free, white fillings, implants and whitening with laser

HOSPITAL DR. NEGRÍN

CLINICA ESTETICA DENTAL Urb. Miraverde, HLS Center, 1ª Planta Derecha, Costa Adeje Tel: 922 715307 General denistry, implantology specialists, laser technology, multilingual team GERMAN CLINIC BUZANADA Tel: 922 767166

Emergency

080 092 091 062

27

HEALTH DIRECTORY

FIRE BRIGADE LOCAL POLICE NATIONAL POLICE GUARDIA CIVIL

C/. Barranco de la Ballena, s/n. 35020 Las Palmas.

Tel. 928 450 000 Fax: 928 449 100 HOSPITAL INSULAR

Plaza Doctor Pasteur 35020 Las Palmas.

Tel. 928 313 033 MATERNO-INSULAR

Avda Maritima del Sur 35016 Las Palmas.

Tel: 928 444 500 Fax 928 444 288 CLÍNICA SAN ROQUE – SUR

Mar de Siberia 1 Urb. Meloneras 35100 MaspalomasMeloneras Tel: 928 063 600 CLÍNICA ROCA

C/ Buganvillas 1 35100 San Agustín Las Palmas.

Tel. (0034) 928 76 90 04 Fax: (0034) 928 76 12 48 CLÍNICA SALUS LAS PALMERAS

Avda. de Tenerife, 24 Centro Comercial Kasbah Playa del Inglés Tel: 928 762 992

with Michael Clark

Michael is recognised as one of the top Shiatsu practitioners in the Western World.

He was Japanese trained and has been practising for over 25 years. During this time, Michael has unbelievably taken over 400 people out of wheelchairs.

If you suffer from poor circulation, causing pain, aches or cramps – you have these problems unnecessarily.

One treatment of four and a half hours with Michael is specially designed to help with these problems and will last for years.

'Life is for living – not for getting a stroke or thrombosis'.

Michael is based in Ocean View Apts., San Eugenio Alto

Give Michael a call anytime on his mob: 636 239 940 www.me-reliefnews.com

Hair · Beauty · Nails · B Osteopathy · Acupuncture · · Chiropody E Reiki &· Reflexology Holistic Massage · · Indian Head L Aromatherapy Massage · Sports Injury · Electrolysis L Sports Centre Los Gigantes Tel / Fax 922 867 343 I San Eugenio Alto (next to Roy’s Pizzas) Tel / Fax 922 719 355 S Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm m S Health Advice midwifery, I TUE & FRI nursing care M A MARY COHR PARIS

© IC/574/08

Nursing TENERIFE NURSING & CARE Coral Mar Square, Costa del Silencio Tel: 922 396 388 Mob 639 977 334 www. tenerifenursingandcare. com

DOCTOR De La Flor

FAMILY MEDICINE / G.P. 10 years of experience in the USA

Keep smiling, fforget the crisis!

HOME / HOTEL VISITS

Best prices, honesty & €30 / €50 professionalism GUARANTEED Tinerfe El Grande, 9. ADEJE (next to Postal Office)

00 34 697 888 666 for Doctor 00 34 637 245 270 for diet advice

Each filling from

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Offer valid until 31.03.2009

>> Hearing aids assessments without obligation >> Name brand hearing aids >> English speaking personnel >> Prices 40% lower than the UK

Call C Ca a & save 922 767 166 German Dental Clinic Buzanada

All of our hearing aids come with a 30-day, money-back guarantee

Specialist shop for your orthopaedic needs

Hearing aids consultants Founded over 100 years ago

We speak English

Los Cristianos: Policlínica Spreafico Edificio Simón, local 1. Tel: 922 79 05 63 Santa Cruz: Clínica Barajas C/ Pérez de Rozas, 8. Tel: 922 27 54 88

Carretera Gral. Orotava-Icod, 41 bajo. La Mancha (38430) Icod de Los Vinos ©IC/550/2007

Tel. 922 812 807 / 121 804 Fax: 922 812 911

Clínica Estética Dental High standard dentistry in a comfortable environment with the most advanced technology

• General Dentistry • Specialist in Implantology since 1980 • One of the founder members of German Society of Implantology (DGI) • Dental laser technology

A professional multiling ual teuam awaits yo

Tel / Fax 922 71 53 07

Urb. Miraverde, HLS HLLS - Center, 1ª Plan Planta Derecha, Costa Adeje

28

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

LIVING & LIFESTYLE

STOP THE CLOCK!

Eternal youth EVEN THE OLDEST KNOWN CIVILISATIONS HAVE SEARCHED TIRELESSLY FOR THE SECRET OF ETERNAL YOUTH, WITHOUT SUCCESS.

Summer Special Gym offer: Free enrollment

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Coupons must be presented in reception. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

UA CLUB TERMAL BALNEARIO-SPA

Torviscas Alto. COSTA ADEJE ©IC/589/09

Tel. 922 71 65 55 · C/ Galicia s/n. Torviscas Alto, Costa Adeje comercial@aquaclubtermal.com · www.aquaclubtermal.com

H o w e v e r, two Spanish scientists from the Superior Council of Scientific Investigations (CSIC) may have found the formula. At least this is how they have presented resveratrol, an antioxidant substance extracted from grapes which has the same benefits as eating 45 kilos of the fruit, and equivalent to 45 bottles of wine.

The effects of these red capsules called Revidox were discovered by chance when scientists Juan Carlos Espín and Francisco Tomás were attempting to improve the quality of fruits.

The technique is based on ultraviolet light and increases 2,000-fold the benefits of resveratrol.

Exposing grapes to rays of ultraviolet light caused them to respond by producing more resveratrol as a defence mechanism.

Resveratrol is capable of stimulating the response of some proteins which are intimately related to cellular survival.

The scientists explained, “the prolongation of this cellular life doesn’t just mean rejuvenation of the skin,

but the rejuvenation of all the organs including the brain, liver, cardiovascular and digestive systems”.

Espino confirmed that tests have been made with rodents and that they have seen the longevity genes speeded up by three times as well as a general improvement in health. “We are now undertaking a study using pigs as well as clinical trials involving 150 people who are at evident cardiovascular risk”, confirmed Rosa Tristán.

The product which is now being made at pharmaceutical laboratory Actafarma, is presented as a natural food supplement and not as a medicine, meaning that it is not subject to so many controls. However, the scientists did confirm that the product has passed an endless list of tests by the

scientific community and health authorities.

How many capsules do you need to take to reach this state of eternal youth?

According to the CSIC scientists, you must take one capsule daily for the rest of your life. Each capsule costs just over one euro and they are sold in packs of 30.

According to its discoverers, Revidox has no side effects and has no contraindications whatsoever other than it should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women and babies.

With Revidox you can’t turn back the clock, but you can stop it right now!

It’s available online at www. parafarmaciasolocosmetica. com and other internet health outlets.

DENTAL HYGIENE

Sparkling Canarian smiles The population of the Canary Islands, together with those of Asturias and Cantabria, are the most accustomed to brushing their teeth after ever y meal.

According to a survey on dental hygiene habits undertaken by Vital Dent clinics across Spain in which 26,175 people took part, the population of the Canary Islands, together with those of Asturias and Cantabria, are the most accustomed to brushing their teeth after ever y meal. The sur vey also revealed that 67.2 per cent of Canarians visited their

dentist for regular checkups even though they were not receiving any specific dental treatment at the time, whereas 40 per cent of the Spanish population only visit a dentist when they have a specific problem.

In general, women and under thirties take more care of their teeth than

men and older people. The sur vey did reveal an increasing awareness of the importance of prevention to avoid dental problems, and that one of the basic principles for maintaining healthy teeth and a sparkling smile is to brush your teeth after each meal.

Pets corner

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Autopista

Pets Portrait

SIRIUS

Good humans needed

Royal road

According to María Luisa Risueño, president of animal protection group Sirius, the authorities lack awareness and sensitivity regarding the treatment of animals, and they fail to take into account how this influences the Canarian economy, because tourists view the Canaries as ‘third world’ islands in this respect.

Autopista, the only dog allowed to wander in Siam Park.

Arona

300 animals abandoned in 2008 The animal protection association Live Arico, working with the Arona council’s health department, has rescued a total of 315 animals in the district during 2008, of which 255 were dogs, and this figure includes dogs which were found dead on the streets.

There were also 43 cats, two parrots, four iguanas and 11 tortoises.

The Arona council is due to sign an agreement with an animal protection association for the collection of abandoned dogs. Other items under consideration for inclusion in this agreement are the encouragement of adoption of these animals and the creation of a public awareness campaign. Control will also be established over colonies of cats which live in the most populated areas and which do not appear to have human owners.

Council representatives explained that finding the owners of lost animals which have not been microchipped is a complicated matter. According to the health department, they calculate that there are some 11,000 pets in

the district but that only 1,300 are officially listed. It would appear that owners choose not to do so.

Animals which are found dead in the street, mostly dogs, are collected by the rubbish service and those found alive are taken to Live Arico which provides refuge for some 180 animals. There the dogs are observed 24 hours a day and the association works closely with veterinar y clinics. Last year, of 255 dogs, only 28 were returned to their owners so it is assumed that the level of abandonment is high.

The worst areas are Cabo Blanco, El Fraile and Costa del Silencio. The owner of Live Arico, Eugenio Damomio, commented that if an animal was microchipped, its owner could be found, but these are the minority.

The refuge has to wait 20 days before allowing adoption by another person. He also stated that the Arona council wants to create a protocol between the local police force and the health department for the protection of animals with fines for abandonment and keeping potentially dangerous breeds. Under this protocol, abandonment will be considered a serious offence punishable with fines ranging from 1,500 to 15,000 euros. Also considered an of fence would be the organisation of cock fights or maltreatment of animals.

29

Sirius is a Tenerife based association which provides shelter for some 56 dogs and 30 cats which have been abandoned. María Luisa asks how it can be possible that the local councils fail to comply with laws and regulations relating to the protection of animals, and that nothing is done about it. She specifically accuses the councils of failing to comply with their legal obligation to collect, care for and protect abandoned animals. The councils are also responsible for starting proceedings against those who abandon or maltreat animals, and she says, “they neither have the staff nor the inclination to do so. How can it be that they don’t create

campaigns and get people involved, while tourists view maltreatment and such total disinterest towards animals as despicable?” she asks.

She points out that tourists are often disgusted by things which Canarians find quite normal, such as dogs tied up all day with very little food and water.

Although there have been improvements in some local councils and the Cabildo contributes towards the sterilisation of stray cats and dogs, the work moves ahead very slowly and within nongovernmental organisations animal protection is the most thankless task. Members are asked why they dedicate themselves to dogs and cats and not to children.

Sirius has been operating for six years although some of its founders have been involved for over twenty years.

One member keeps 30 cats on a private finca where they are cared for but have the benefit of living in the open.

Many of the people who call on Sirius are foreigners who want to return to their own countries, but cannot take their animals with them.

Sami

Sara

Canela

To avoid overcrowding the association tries to find new homes for animals before they are abandoned and to ensure that the prospective new owners are suitable. All types of animals are abandoned including snakes, iguanas and exotic breeds.

To raise awareness, Sirius has begun a campaign in schools and colleges, and for the chat sessions a guest is brought along – Brake, a

white one-year old dog who was knocked down by a vehicle and suffered multiple fractures. With much care and attention Brake recovered, he remains lame but, “he runs like a hare”, says María.

Sirius have many sad and happy tales to tell, but most of all they want to find homes for these lovely Canarian animals. There are so many just waiting for someone like you to remind them what its like to have a home and be loved.

Find out more on www. siriuscanarias.com

K9

From Wingate with love Congratulations and thanks were the order of the day when the Junior Department of Wingate School, after a whirlwind of fun events and frolics, were able to present a cheque for €2,794.15 to Elsie Clinton-Leslie, president of animal charity K9.

The cheque was presented

by Wingate headmaster Chris Green, and the total far exceeded everyone’s expectations and is a record breaking amount raised by the Junior school children for the char-

Elsie Clinton-Leslie accepts the cheque from Chris Green in the presence of the young fund raisers

ity. This year the children really pulled out all the stops and came up with some very

Do you want to make your pet a star or find him or her a partner? Maybe you’re looking for good homes for your pets’ offspring or a lost or abandoned animal, or need help looking for a missing animal. Send us a photograph and all the relevant information for our Pet’s Portrait. (Unfortunately photographs cannot be returned and please note that e-mails need to be accompanied by photos in JPEG or GIF format.)

innovative ideas to raise some much needed funds. Aside from an impressive amount

in excess of €1,800 raised by the sponsored ‘Spanish Spell’, there was over €130 made in personal donations by the children. Surplus tuck sales raised over €120 and over €45 was raised selling home grown broccoli and oranges.

Mini massage proved popular with pupils, raising over €50 and fun bingo and Mufti (non school uniform) day raised in excess of €260. Well done to all the pupils and staff for their fantastic efforts!

Digs 4 Dogs Professional dog care at our purpose built

KENNELS 6 mins from San Isidro Only 10 € per day • Collection and return Service • Quarantine & UK return Service For rates and availability phone Allen or Lesley on 680 278 254 or 922 772051

30

Food FOR THOUGHT

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

MAKING THE MOST OF SEASONAL FOOD

Glorious garlic THE ISLANDS’ GARLIC CROP HAS JUST COME ON THE MARKET.

I

sn’t mother nature wonderful. Just as the change in temperatures starts to cause the typical snuffles of the season, she provides us with a perfect natural antidote as well as a tasty addition to our dishes.

Glorious on its own, garlic is often coupled with onion, tomato and ginger. The relatively inedible skin is usually removed before cooking, but sometimes whole heads are sliced in half, dipped in oil and roasted alongside a Sunday joint for example, to provide an additional accompaniment as well as adding flavour to the basting juices and any gravy made from them. Garlic can be cooked whole, in cloves,

sliced, chopped or crushed, generally the smaller the pieces the stronger the flavour.

Garlic can be pickled, dried or frozen, but don’t keep fresh heads of garlic in the fridge without treatment, it will sprout and go bitter. If garlic is just stored in oil, there is a possibility of botulism developing. To avoid this try covering the peeled cloves in vinegar for 12 to 24 hours, the vinegar can then be used in salad dressings as garlic flavoured vinegar. Cover the cloves with olive oil, refrigerate and use within three months. Pickled garlic is on sale ready-made in many supermarkets and is a great standby for busy

chefs. Under the Trades Description Act, our recipe should really be called bread soup as it contains more bread than garlic. It is a traditional Spanish soup, made to a very old recipe and is part of the simple, practical, nutritive and economical cooking typical of central and northern Spain. It is a particular favourite during the Easter period after an evening procession. Some chefs claim that keeping the mixture on the boil continually is the secret of a great garlic soup.

On the Spanish peninsula it is normal to see ‘pan de quarto’ on sale, a small loaf that supposedly weighs 250g, but here you may have to substitute it with ‘pan de leña’

bread cooked in a wood burning oven which tends to be firmer than the regular bread.

Mother’s Pride or similar will not work. The Serrano ham that is used is the end of the joint which is sold still on the bone, in tacos (cubed) or in a lump and is considerably cheaper than the sliced variety.

Our bunch of fresh Islands’ garlic cost just six euros and provided enough for a few months of family cooking.

The local product has smaller cloves, is firm and creamy and quite a bit more pungent.

Available in mercadillos del agricultor (farmers’ markets) and roadside stalls all over the Canaries.

(for 6)

Sopa de Ajo Ingredients • 2 ½ litres water or chicken or vegetable stock • ¼ bread from the previous day • 1 cup of olive oil • Eight cloves of garlic • One heaped teaspoonful of paprika (pimentón dulce) • 100g Serrano ham cut into tiny cubes • Six eggs • Salt and pepper • A sprig of mint or bay leaf

Preparation

CROQUANT British Bakery & Coffee Shop

Put 2½ litres of liquid to boil with a pinch of salt.

sauc

Cut the bread into slices one cm thick and fry lightly in the oil.

Pizza - Pasta - Brasa

Sandwiches, sausage rolls, pasties, etc.

Fresh homemade Pasta Pizzas - Fresh Fish Meat Eat in or take away

Homemade desserts Great Range of Spanish and Italian wines

Wed - Mon 1pm - 4pm / 7pm - 11pm

Special cakes for special occasions

Calle la Gaviota. Playa de la Arena, Puerto Santiago On the main road between Hotel ‘Barceló Varadero’ and Mercadona

The Apolo Centre - Los Cristianos Avda. Gral. Franco - Los Cristianos Mon - Sun 8am - 5.30pm Tel: 922 798 133

©IC/572/08

Tel. 922 860 744

Slice garlic and fry with ham until golden brown. Remove from the heat and when cold add the paprika and stir well.

When the water boils, add the bread gradually and the garlic and ham mixture with any remaining oil and the herbs. Bring back to the boil and boil for five to 10 minutes.

At this point some would advise whisking all the eggs and adding to them soup, continuing to simmer for a couple of minutes until cooked, but we prefer breaking the eggs individually into the soup bowls, covering with the soup and cooking through for two minutes in the microwave.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Competitions Prize draw

WIN 100,000 EUROS

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

31

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Wok International CHECK THE INCREDIBLE VARIETY ON OFFER AT THE RESTAURANTE WOK INTERNATIONAL.

Probably the most famous milk producer in Spain, Central Lechera Asturiana, is offering a prize of 100,000 euros per month throughout 2009. The lush pastures of Asturias are the perfect grazing grounds for the herds of cows that populate them and the quality can be tasted in the milk they produce. Central Lechera Asturiana are promoting their product via a free prize draw and entry is very simple.

By mail: All you have to do is send two barcodes from any Central Lechera Asturiana product together with your personal details (name, surname/s, address, telephone and DNI or national identity number) to Apdo. De Correos, 100.103, 33080, Oviedo.

By mobile: Look for the special packs marked with the promotion information and find the 13 digit code that is printed on them next to the sell-by date. Send an SMS message in the following format to 5626 – ASTURIANA (space) code (space) code – for example: ASTURIANA 00291425309GK 17491715158LZ

Competitions Brussels

SEAFOOD FAIR Canarian companies took part in one of the most important fish and shellfish exhibitions in Europe recently.

The Seafood fair in Brussels is a four day event that showcases all classes of products from the sea whether fresh, tinned, frozen or pre-prepared. The agricultural and fisheries department of the Canarian Government organised a 256 square metres stand within the Spanish pavilion for the ten islands companies that took part. The objective of the fair was to increase the amount of export of Canarian produced goods especially within Europe.

Competitions Wine and furniture

TASTEFUL TASTINGS Combining the best in Tenerife wines and international furniture is the idea behind a new initiative whereby the bodegas under the Tacoronte-Acentejo umbrella have been holding a series of tastings at the BoConcept store.

This exclusive furniture store, just off the TF-1 by the CC Carrefour, has already hosted tastings for the Bodegas Domínguez Cuarta Generación, Bodegas La Palmera, Bodegas El Lomo and Bodegas Monje.

The evenings are open to the public and begin at 7pm.

Furthermore those attending are entered into a draw to win a visit for two people to the Tacoronte-Acentejo Ruta del Vino, a trip which includes lunch.

BoConcept has over 220 shops worldwide and sells furniture and home interior accessories designed exclusively for their clientele.

I

magine a mar vellous variety of Sushi and your favourite styles of Asian cooking, combine them with the finest of fresh meat, fish and shellfish and you will begin to have an idea of the incredible variety on offer at the Restaurante Wok International.

Owner Mr Chen already had several Chinese restaurants, but he wanted to of fer much more, something different from the rest.

With his Restaurante Wok International, one of the first restaurants of its kind, he is able to delight all his guests from anywhere in the world. Whether you choose Chinese or Spanish cuisine, or Japanese sushi, the staff can provide you with your heart’s desire and the good news is that you can help yourself to as much as you want to eat at their hot and cold buffets.

If five or more people go along in the evening for a bir thday celebration, the person whose birthday it is only pays for his or her drinks, Mr Chen invites him or her for a spectacular feast, absolutely free. This offer is also available the day before or the day after the birthday too, just present your ID card or passport as proof that it

Opposite Valdés Centre Los Cristianos OPEN DAILY :: 1.30pm - 4.30pm 6pm - 11.30pm TABLE RESERVATIONS : 922 797 168

really is your birthday.

The atmosphere is instantly welcoming with the mixture of the traditional Chinese decor, modern furnishing and friendly, efficient staff. Service is swift and excellent.

Once you have chosen from the excellent prime materials on offer, you take the raw food over to the wok and griddle section, choose one of the sauces on offer and you can stay and watch the spectacle of your food being prepared.

Alternatively, one of the team will bring it to your table. There is also a huge buffet selection for starters, main courses and desserts, leaving you totally spoilt for choice.

There is space for up to 250 people and if you or a guest have mobility difficulties, the whole building has been designed to be wheelchair friendly. The truly amazing choices on of fer have to be seen and tasted to be believed. Fresh pork, lamb, beef, the best and freshest fish that can be found in the market, prawns, crayfish, mussels, clams and even oysters. Try it for yourselves!

For superb choice and excellent value for money, check out the Restaurante Wok International at Boulevard Chayofe 10, Los Cristianos (between OfiPapel and the BP petrol station, opposite the Valdés Centre).

Open Monday to Sunday, 1.30pm to 4.30pm and 6.30pm to 11.30pm. Mr Chen and his team look for ward to welcoming you.

32

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Taking a look at Spanish cheeses

FoodIDEAS

Cooking with cheese A SERIES OF RECIPES CREATED BY THE BEST OF TODAY’S SPANISH CHEFS

Goat cheese squares with spicy tomato and orange

HEART FONDUE

For chocolate lovers everywhere. www.crazyaboutgadgets.com

By Pepe Rodríguez, El Bolío (www.elbohio.com)

Ingredients:

Ladybird timer Spot on cooking times. www.vitrinamagica.es

• 100gr. Toledo goats’ cheese • Breadcrumbs • Beaten egg • oil (for frying) • 4 small tomatoes • Salt • Sugar • 2 oranges • Black olive paste • Tabasco sauce • Salad greens • Edible flowers

PREP TAXI

Chopping board to pan the professional way. www.cheftools.com

Preparation: Make a cut in each tomato and add a bit of salt, sugar and Tabasco sauce, then place in oven at 80ºC for four hours.

Peel the oranges and cut the peel into small pieces. Add fruit and peel to 100 gr. of sugar and cook slowly until you get marmalade.

Cut the goat cheese into small squares weighing approximately 25 gr. each. Dip cubes of cheese in a little beaten egg, roll in breadcrumbs and fry.

BACON GENIE

Reduces fat in microwaved bacon. www.freshfinds.com

Presentation:

Information and images from España y sus quesos (in Spanish, English and French) by José Manuel Escorial, ISBN 84-611-2686-6 (around 60 euros). With the kind permission of the national federation of milk industries, FeNIL and the Spanish Institute for External Commerce, ICEX.

As

Asiaticoo Asiatic Buffet Libre As

Japanese, Thai and Chinese Cuisine Choose your sauce and our chef’s will prepare your Wok, Grill & BBQ in front of you.

A variety of Asian snacks, fresh meat & seafood

EAT WHATEVER AND HOWEVER MUCH YOU LIKE We invite you to eat whatever and however much you like from our wide variety of cold and hot dishes, desserts and ice-creams of all kinds.

All day buffet

7,99€ ONLY

Tel. 922 797 168 • Fax 922 795 618 Lunchtime 1 pm – 4.30 pm Evenings 6.30 pm – 11.30 pm B Blvd. Chajofe 10 • Los Cristianos (Formerly Mercedes-Benz)

sushi

Dribble the marmalade on the plate and intersperse with the olive paste, add cheese and tomato pulp and decorate with salad greens and edible flowers.

TWO IN ONE

Flip or pick up with these spatula tongs.

Restaurante

La Romántica International cuisine, flambées a speciality Superb food, stylish service, a touch of class in Callao Salvaje

Tel. 922 741 518 Open daily 12 midday - 11pm

El Ancla, nº 21. C/ El Jable Callao Salvaje, Adeje

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

By Gerald Ruben

WineGUIDEE

33

The restaurant that does not want a Michelin Star S

ituated beside the beautiful bay which runs along part of La Caleta, the Rosso sul Mare restaurant stands out as a beacon to all lovers of Italian food.

Opened in July 2006, it has acquired an envious reputation as one of the finest restaurants in Tenerife. Managed by husband and wife team Lomani and Giorgia, it has attracted all those who enjoy the better things in life. Giorgia who was responsible for the interior dĂŠcor, has produced an ambiance which is both classic yet casual and relaxing, the club type atmosphere that greets you has all the warm colours that you would expect from a Mediterranean restaurant of this standard.

I met with Lomani the day after Vivienne and I had had dinner there, I was interested in his business policy and how he kept such a high standard

of food and service in such a changing business environment as Tenerife. Lomani explained that since the day they opened they had only lost two of the twenty one staff they employ, one for personal reasons and the other person wished to return to Lanzarote.

This meant that the original team stayed together, were happy in what they did and understood that the customers’ wishes must always come first. The team were the backbone of the business and it was their attitudes and application which ensured that the restaurant maintained its reputation. Nothing was left to chance as it was essential that from the moment the customer walked in the door, he or she was made to feel important and that they would leave at the end of their meal satisfied with every detail of their eating experience.

Why no Michelin star?

Well, Lomani has a view that once this star has been granted to a restaurant there can

(L -R) Francesco Zinno, Lomani Seddiki (manager) and Walter Lunardi

be a tendency to relax and not necessarily try as hard. He feels it is better to produce the best they can all the time and then strive to do a little better.

On the evening that Vivienne and I went there, we received a warm greeting from our waiter and were shown to a table which was beautifully laid, menus were immediately brought, and after a lengthy discussion about the wine list, we received a basket of interesting breads along with

the water and our wine. We chose to share an Ensalada Francese as a starter, with Ravioli de Pescado con Salsa de Langostinas y Curry as Vivienne’s choice and Ravioli de Espinacas y Racotta alla Sorento for myself.

All three dishes were superb and beautifully presented, all of them creating the most glorious explosion of taste in the mouth. The service was excellent with the water and wine glasses being

topped up and enquiries by the waiter as to whether we were enjoying the food and needed anything else. The wine we chose was from the cellars of Marchesi de Barolo and was a Gavi 2008, and as it turned out an excellent choice for the food we had chosen.

This winery is located in the village of Barolo (close to Turin) and incorporates the castle of the Marquis Faletti.

It is very much a family business and since 2006 it has been under the direction of the family of Ernesto Abbona which, with more than 60 per cent of the shares, has a majority control. Marchesi de Baroli can be considered a medium-sized winery. It controls approximately 110 hectares of vineyards from which it produces approximately 1,500,000 bottles of wine. The winery has planted a large variety of local vines and is constantly acquiring other vineyards as it continues with its expansion programme. I for one will

cer tainly tr y other wines from this winery as it seems to have struck just the right level between quality and price. The wine we had with our meal was clear with just a tinge of lemon, complemented the pasta dishes and was a pleasure to drink.

The restaurant changes its menu once a year along with some of the wines on the list. Wine can be bought by the glass, and this applies to Champagne as well. Having invested over 10,000 euros in a temperature controlled wine dispensary, Lomani is justly proud of the range and quality of the wines on offer.

The food and wines are all priced realistically, which makes a change from some of the restaurants operating on the Island. To reserve a table, call 661339390. They are open every day from 11am until late. There is a large terrace with tables facing out to La Gomera or if you prefer to eat indoors, there is a spacious area inside.

34

WHAT’S ON

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

What’s On Gran Canaria MUSEUMS & CULTURAL EVENTS [ Tenerife ]

Auditorium Tenerife www.auditoriodetenerife. com

Av. Constitución, 1 38003 Santa Cruz phone 902 31 73 27

Guimerá Theatre www.teatroguimera.es

Plaza Isla de la Madera, 2- 38001 Santa Cruz phone 902 36 46 03

FIESTAS May 9, 5.30 pm, Romería Santisima Trinidad, El Tablero, Maspalomas May 16, 7 pm, Romería San Isidro Labrador, Cardones, Arucas To May 17, San José de la Montaña, Arucas (Trapiche).

Sports, music and dancing with the traditional Romería on May 9th To May 30, San José Obrero 2009, Agüimes (Cruce de Arinaga) with a benefit concert for Carítas on May 8th, tickets 5 euros

CONCERTS May 16, 10 pm, Los Secretos (Dorada en Vivo), Las Palmas

CajaCanarias Cultural Centre www.canarynet.com

Pl. el Patriotismo, 1 38002 Santa Cruz phone 922 471 000

Museum of Science & Space (MCC) www.museosdetenerife. org

C/ Vía Láctea, s/n 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna phone 922 315 265

Museum of Nature & Archaeology (MNH) www.museosdetenerife. org

C/ Fuente Morales, s/n 38003 Santa Cruz phone 922 535 128

Tenerife History Museum (MHAT) www.museosdetenerife. org

C/ San Agustín, 20/22 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna phone 922 825 949/43

OTHER EVENTS Gay Pride, Maspalomas To May 10, Street entertainment, discos, pool parties, variety shows, parades and other events for both gays and lesbians at the Yumbo Centre, Playa del Inglés.

Fireworks on Saturday 9th.

VI Festival Tensamba May 9, 8 pm, Adriana Calcanhotto +2, Sala Sinfónica, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, Las Palmas May 9, 10.30 pm, Wilson Das Neves, Sala San Borondon, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, Las Palmas

MUSIC May 15, 10.30 pm, Jean-Michel Pilc Trio.

Rincón de Jazz. Sala San Borondon, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, Las Palmas May 17, 7.30 pm, May 19 and 22, 8.30 pm, Elektra 2009 Opera Festival, Teatro Pérez Galdos, Las Palmas

Tenerife Anthropology Museum

THEATRE

www.museosdetenerife. org

May 8, 9, 8.30 pm and May 10,

C/ Vino, 44 38270 Valle de Guerra (La Laguna) phone 922 546 300 [ Gran Canaria ]

Cuyás Theatre

7 pm, Metamorphoses National Ballet of Marseilles.

Contemporary dance. Teatro Cuyás, Las Palmas May 15, 8.30 pm, May 16 and 17, 12 noon and 6.30 pm, Rain.

Como lluvia en tus ojos. Cirque Éloize. Family circus. Teatro Cuyás, Las Palmas

www.teatrocuyas.com

Pérez Galdós Theatre www.teatroperezgaldos.es

EXHIBITIONS Until June 9, Temáticas Atlánticas by Antonio Sánchez

Hotel Neptuno, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, 10 am to 10 pm.

Until June, sculpture by Agoney Santana Saulo Torón square, Las Canteras, Las Palmas Until June, Un mar de Vergüenzas Saulo Torón Square in Las Canteras Until June 13, Lanzarote Now 2009

by Eberhard Bosslet, Amalia Barboza and Luis Villalba. Taller de Arte, Tías, Lanzarote Until June 19, Soutoura photographic exhibition by Ángel Luis Aldai, Casa Africa, Las Palmas

Tenerife FIESTAS May 9, 10 pm, Baile de Magos Plaza de la Iglesia, Valle San Lorenzo May 17, Romería de Fátima, following mass at Valle San Lorenzo To May 31, Fiestas de Mayo, Santa Cruz.

Religious processions and romerías, gastronomic and sporting competitions, livestock displays and traditional sports

Machado. Parque Cesar Manrique de La Postura, Adeje

Hispano-Canarian cultural event Cultural Centre, Los Cristianos May 21, 7 pm, Inauguration and musical performance May 22, 9 pm, Troveros de Asieta and Fabiola Socas (classical music performance)

Children’s activities Workshops about the Canaries.

SPORT & NATURE May 7 to 10, Beach Volleyball European Championship Tour, Playa del Inglés May 10, Auto Slalom, Bahía de El Pajar. La Cantera-Ctra.

Cercados Espino Trekking: Local councils in various areas of the island organise guided treks and other open-air activities. For more information, call UPNature, Guanarteme 928 270084 or 928 473265, Arucas 928 621754, Maspalomas 928 764201, Tablero 928 140640, Mogán 928 158805, Aldea de San Nicolás de Tolentino 928.891.252 or www.alberguelaaldea.com, or Valleseco 928 618740.

Archaeology Guided visits to the principal digs in the island: Bentayga (Tejeda), Cenobio de Valerón (Guía) etc. For more information 928 219 229.

MARKETS Sundays: Telde 8 am to 2pm.

Ramblas de Jinámar, Santa Brígida, 8 am to 2 pm.

Near the Borough Park San Mateo, 8 am to 3 pm. Town centre; Valsequillo, 8 am to 2 pm.

C/ Isla de la Gomera; Teror, 8 am to 2 pm.

Near the Basílica of Nuestra Señora del Pino Moya, 8 am to 2 pm.

Bus station; Valleseco, 8 am to 2 pm.

Town centre San Bartolomé de Tirajana, 8 am to 2 pm.

San Fernando & La Vegueta, Las Palmas, 11 am to 3 pm.

Flowers, children’s area, art and crafts, with popular Canarian dancing, music and food

MUSIC To July 12, IV edition, Los Caprichos Musicales de La Isla Baja (Musical Whims 2009) Cine-Teatro Municipal, Buenavista del Norte May 9, 8.30 pm, Duo Curbelo piano recital, works by Bizzet, Mendelssohn, Díaz, Pestano, de Falla and Ravel.

May 16, 8.30 pm, Marta Zabaleta piano recital, the Iberia Suite by Isaac Albéniz

Arona Jazz Festival Plaza de la Iglesia, Los Cristianos May 8, 9 pm, Guitar Juice, funkfarria May 9, 9 pm, Manolo Rodríguez, jazz guitar and Anne Peters, nu-groove

Arona Springtime Music Clarinet and saxophone group from the Arona municipal music and dance school: May 10, 8 pm, Cultural Centre, Las Galletas May 16, 8 pm, Cultural Centre, Los Cristianos May 17, 8 pm, Javier Díaz de La Rosa (guitar), José Antonio Marichal (trumpet) and Teresa Roque (piano). Cultural Centre, Los Cristianos

CULTURE Book Fair May 8, 9, 10, Adeje Book Fair dedicated to the writer Antonio

Storytelling, Guanche legends and games.

May 8, 5.30 pm, Plaza de Guaza May 15, 5.30 pm, Residents’ Association, Flor del Sur, Guargacho May 22, 5.30 pm, Plaza de Arona

Arona Plant and Flower Fair 2009 Ramblas, Las Galletas Exhibition and sale of plants and flowers. Workshops for flower arranging and salad making (10.30 am), infusions, Canarian remedies and aromas (5.15 pm).

Children’s play area with crêche service, early evening live music and photographic marathon.

More information 922 757 006.

May 22, 5 pm to 8.30 pm May 23 & 24, 10 am to 8.30 pm

OTHER EVENTS & FESTIVALS VI Festival Tensamba May 8, 9 pm, Adriana Calcanhotto +2, Teatro Leal, La Laguna May 9, 12 noon, Marcos Suzano, percussion workshop in the rehearsals hall, Teatro Leal, La Laguna May 9, 9 pm, Hamilton de Hollanda and Marcos Suzano, Teatro Leal, La Laguna May 13, 9 pm, Paulinho Lêmos, Casino, Santa Cruz May 14, 8 pm, Carlos Brunetto, chat: the heat and colour of the

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

WHAT’S ON

Brazilian samba, Centro de Estudios Hispanicos, Puerto de la Cruz May 15, 9 pm, Brazilian Night, food, music and videos.

Balcón del Valle, La Orotava May 16, 9 pm, María Rita, Auditorio de Tenerife, Santa Cruz

Guided trails for the general public:

Terror in Icod May 8, 9, 15, 16 and 22, 9

MISCELLANEOUS

pm, Casa del Terror.

La noche llega a Icod. Convento de San Francisco, Icod de los Vinos. Various events aimed at over 16s. Not for those of a nervous disposition. Tickets 3 euros, reduced fees for groups

La Baranda Wine Museum

The National Park’s interpretation service offers guided tours free of charge. You need to book in advance with the National Park Office (Tel. 922 290 129/922 290 183).

A renovated 17th century Canary Island hacienda used by the Island Cabildo to promote local quality wines. Autopista Gral. del Norte. Km 21, (El Sauzal exit), 38360 El Sauzal, Tel.: 922 572 535 Tuesday to Saturday from 11 am to 8 pm. Wine tasting and shop until 10 pm, Sunday and Bank Holidays from 11 am to 6 pm, closed Monday.

Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009 May 14 to 17, midday to 10 pm, Santa Cruz welcomes the tall ships before they set off for Bermuda. This is a spectacular odyssey around the North Atlantic Ocean of more than 7,000 nautical miles following the traditional route taken by sailing ships of a bygone age.

CONCERTS May 30, 8 pm, Tiembla Tenerife por una Buena Causa Football Stadium, Playa de las Américas, Arona. MClan, El Sueño de Morfeo, Brinsley Forde (Aswad), Alex Ubago and more. A benefit concert in aid of Canarian families who find themselves in a desperate situation for medical reasons. Tickets in advance, 30 euros from www. ticktackticket.com

EXHIBITIONS Cultural Centre, Cho-Parque de la Reina: Until May 15, Photos by Gervasio Arroyo May 15 to June 5, Photos from the shop window dressing competition

Cultural Centre, Adeje Until May 11, Movile Photographs by Vicky Delgado

Cultural Centre, Los Cristianos Until May 19, Sergio Linares Paintings

Until May 19, Entre el ayer y hoy (between yesterday and today). Photos from the Ansina project.

May 21 to June 3, Addishiwot Photographs May 21 to June 13, Hispano-Canarian plastic arts

Cultural Centre, Valle San Lorenzo: May 8 to June 5, Naxos, drawings

Castles Tours: Tenerife History Museum offers guided tours around the island’s castles for schools and groups. More information on 922 825 949

Masonic Meetings in the Cultural Centre, Las Galletas: May 12 to June 10, Juan Abreu Sculptures

Civic Centre, Cabo Blanco: May 15 to June 10, paintings collection

Arona Town Hall: May 19 to June 30, Sonia Delgado Paintings

Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, Santa Cruz, Sala C Until May 24, Mirar de Reojo, Roland Penrose and surrealism

Espacio Cultural CajaCanarias, Santa Cruz Until May 31, El Bodegón español en El Prado Monday to Friday 11am to 1pm and 5pm to 9pm, Saturdays 11am to 2pm and 5pm to 8pm

The Convent, Granadilla de Abona

May 15 to June 8, En busca del gran blanco (in search of the great white whale). Photographic exhibition

by Juanmi Alemany

SPORT & NATURE Kayak Tours by kayak for all abilities which may be combined with snorkelling, hiking, climbing or potholing. More info on 922 127 938.

Surfing Learn surfing and body boarding.

North: Escuela de Surf y Body Board OAD La Laguna, for those aged 12 years and over.

More information on 922 256

244 or wwwoadlaguna.com South: Escuela Oficial de la Federación Canaria de Surf K16 (Playa de las Américas). Groups or individual training for those aged 7 years or over. More information on 922 798 480 or www.k16surf.com

Hiking: May 17, Ponte las Botas.

Chinyero volcano-Las Manchas (Santiago del Teide). Duration 3 hours. Difficulty medium.

Holders of Carné Joven and Carné Mayores from Adeje, 5 euros, Adeje residents (empadronados) 8 euros, non-residents 12 euros. More information, Casa de Juventud de Adeje, El Galeon. 922 78 18 08 or www.adejoven.es

May 9, Santiago del Teide-Cruz de Gala. Cumbres de MascaPalmar Buenavista. Distance 10km, duration 4 to 5 hours.

Difficulty: medium May 23, Cruz del CarmenChinamada-Punta del Hidalgo.

Distance 11km. Duration 5 to 6 hours. Difficulty: medium to high. More information 922 725 180

south of Tenerife. Visitors always welcome. Tenerife Craft, Chapter, Mark. For more information phone 922 794 502 or 922 732 386.

Ciudadanos Europeos (European Citizens Group).

For more information contact the Secretary, Chris Stanyer on 922 751507 or the President, Harry Davies, on 922 781905. e-mail: ceten@fsmail.net

K9 Pleasure Island in Playa de las Américas, just behind Lineker’s bar in Starco, now hosts the K9 and San Francisco charities for animals car boot sale. All proceeds go to the charities.

Stallholders are very welcome but booking is advised, enquiries and reservations can be made by calling Pat the Cat on 608 121081. Open from 8am to midday, great for bargain hunters and those who love a good rummage.

English Library

Discover Arona. More

Calle Irlanda, Parque Taoro, Puerto de la Cruz: Monday 3pm to 5.30pm, Wednesday 10am to 12 noon, Friday from 4pm to 6pm and Saturday 11am to 1pm.

Information: Julia Gaskell 922 37 25 79

information about trekking routes. 922 725 180 or www. arona.org

Alcoholics Anonymous

All year round, guided walks for groups through the most emblematic buildings of the lovely northern town of Los Silos. Contact Oscar in their information office on 922 841 086.

Barranco del Infierno (Adeje): Mondays to Sundays from 8.30 am till 5.30 pm. No access allowed after 4 pm. Price: 3 euros.

Max. 200 people a day. Free entrance on Sundays. Information and reservations on 922 782 885.

(AA) meetings in the South: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 5.45pm, Friday at 11.45am. 1st Floor Apolo Centre, Los Cristianos (next to bus terminal). For more information call 630 478 448 (24 hrs).

35

Church Services: Living Spring Pentecostal Church Guaza Calle Almorejo 2, beside the Guaza sports complex.

Rev. and Pastor (Mrs) Nelson Olajide Tel: 609 505 915. livingspring75@hotmail.com The Anglican Parish of All Saints Puerto de la Cruz Sunday services 9.30am and 11am 29 Carretera Taoro. Parish Priest: David Jenkins. Tel: 922 384 038 www.allsaintstenerife.com Saint Francis Anglican Chaplaincy Tenerife South Chaplain Fr. Keith Gordon, phone 679660277 or 922742045 Christian Fellowship Los Cristianos 1st floor of Apolo Shopping Centre Pastor Adrian McBride.

Tel: 922 790 007.

Costa del Silencio Coral Mar. Sunday Services 11am-6pm. Mothers & Toddlers group Tue.10.30 to 12 noon.

Counselling and info: Pastor Bill Jeffrey Tel: 617291751. www. silenciochurch.com Calvary Assembly International Church Buzanada Sunday 11.00am, Wednesday 7.30pm Nursery is provided during the Sunday morning service as well as Sunday School for children under 12.

For more information, for counselling, or for information about the International Bible Institute, call: Missionary / Pastor Mark G. Baumgartner 628 107 316.

Catholic Mass Puerto de la Cruz International service Sundays (almost always in English) in the Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia parish church Los Gigantes Daily mass in English in the Espíritu Santo church St. Sebastian’s Inclusive Church Mogán, Gran Canaria Sundays 7pm at Cordial Mogán Playa Chapel

Canarian C-Days www.diasc.com/diasc/ Travel between the islands to cultural events is 50 per cent cheaper on certain days and for selected events with Fred Olsen, Islas Airways and Binter.

Discounts on hotels and car hire are also available.

MUSEUMS Casa Lercaro C. San Agustín, 20-22 La Laguna Phone 922 82 59 49

Casa de Carta Tacoronte to Valle de Guerra, Phone 922 546 300

You will need to book by telephone 902 292 999, Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm or via the web

Make sure you know the full price of the ticket (including Canarian residents’ reduction) to ensure you receive the full discount.

36

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

THE SPIN

The Film :

SpinNews

Showbizz

By Barbara Law

British Cheerleading Association

Jumping for joy State of play CINE GRANSUR Director: Kevin Macdonald Genre: Political thriller Based on: The BBC miniseries created

by Paul Abbott

The Concert :

The Vamos a Bailar/ Let’s Dance studio in Callao Salvaje is hosting a series of cheerleading workshops from May 25th.

The workshops will be given by top coaches from the British Cheerleading Association who will be here for six days. The workshops, which will take place on Monday May 25th, Wednesday May 27th and Thursday May 28th, from 5.30pm to 8pm, are open to anyone from eight to 30 years of age. If you wish to attend any of the workshops, please contact Vamos a Bailar as soon as possible to reserve a place.

For more details, visit the website www.vamosabailarletsdance.com and go to the Cheerleading section.

GOLF COSTA ADEJE MAY 16TH, 9PM If you think he’s sexy you’ve already got your tickets. Booking through www.islandconnections. eu, click on the banner.

Spain top 10 SOURCE: PROMUSICAE

1. C. Baute/Marta S. Colgando en tus manos 2. Gurú Josh Project Infinity 2008 3. Amy Macdonald This is the life 4. Encarnita Polo Paco, Paco, Paco 5. Macaco Moving 6. Kiko & Shara Y yo queria 7. Lady GaGa/Colby’O Just dance 8. La Quinta Estacion Que te queria 9.Luis Fonsi/David Bisbal Aqui estoy yo 10. Malu A esto le llamas amor

Cheering Tenerife style

Eurovision Song Contest 2009

Douze points With just over a week to go to the night of nights for fans of glam rock, European kitch, ooohhh soo independent televoting and fab costume changes, Nor way is the clear favourite to win the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest, being held in Moscow.

A bit like the Grand National in years gone by, when being favourite was a guarantee of falling at the first hurdle, this might not have been welcome news in the past.

However Russia defied the odds by winning last year, having been the front runner in the weeks up to the contest, and with the change in voting procedures hopefully off-setting regional pattern voting, young Alexander Rybak, with what is actually a very good entry, could well see Norway win their third title.

Voting, for the record, will now be both be televoting and a jury,

www.

Will the night be for her and Spain?

each to carry 50 per cent weight in the country’s final allocation of their 12, 10, etc points, the former taking precedence in the event of a tie. As is now the norm, there will be two semi-finals, on Tuesday 12th May and on Thursday 14th May, at 9pm, both televised live, as, of course, is the final on May 16th.

The top ten countries from each semi-final go through to the final and join host country and last year’s winner Russia as well as the Big Four, the UK, France, Germany and Spain. These four qualify automatically, not on artistic merit, but as the biggest financial contributors

Tucked away around the corner from The Travel Shop in Los Cristianos is a new friendly bar called The Swan Inn.

The very lovely Linda Day

Eurovision

Rod Stewart

Linda Day

to the EBU (the European Broadcasting Union).

Spain have worked so hard to win this in recent years – who could forget the huge build up around Rosa, the first Operación Triunfo winner, and the massive street par ties surrounding the event itself. When she didn’t win it was a huge blow for all those first time Eurovisioners who thought it was a given – though us hardy hacks knew better. This year’s entry, La Noche Es Para Mí (The Night Is For Me is sung by Soraya, who is a great performer and should see Spain finish in the top ten.

The owner is a popular, talented and well known face in Tenerife; Linda Day. Having been on the island for twenty years, she has made her first venture into owning a bar.

Linda has always been popular playing keyboards and singing throughout Las Americas and Los Cristianos, and that experience is evident as she creates a friendly atmosphere from the moment you walk into her bar.

Linda is from Wales, and as a child was introduced to the Welsh club circuit by her musician parents, who ran a concert party, so you can see she’s an experienced, all round entertainer.

Before arriving in Tenerife, Linda appeared in summer seasons, cruises and big band work. An excellent keyboard player, she has worked to Tenerife holiday audiences always in residencies, which she prefers.

Year after year, fans always find out where she’s working, and if she’s moved on to a new venue, they call and say hello.

Jazz is her first love, and what better way to be introduced to it than listening and working on the QE2 with the Count Basie band - who she says were wonderful to her. She’s also worked at the Edinburgh Jazz Festival, but there are more strings to this lady’s bow, as she tackles blues, soul and pop in her own particular style and her customers love her. Residents and holiday makers from around the world enjoy their night at The Swan Inn so don’t miss this opportunity while you’re here.

If you’re into the Karaoke scene, you’ll be more than pleased with the large amount of tracks Linda has available and everyone is given the opportunity to step on stage and be a star for the night.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Letters

Traffic Management Madness Dear Editor

W

hat a missed oppor tunity! The new Guaza motor way junction and bypass nears completion and all it seems to have done is create a longer slip road and a car park around Guaza to put vehicles whilst they queue to get to their destination.

As the project was progressing it appeared that a raised bridge link would be constr ucted to take traffic unhindered off the northbound motorway onto the ring road, so avoiding a pinch point at the roundabout for traf fic from Buzanada and Los Cristianos direction.

But no, all traffic goes to the roundabout, with a slip road off the motorway that suddenly descends, leaving a blind brow prior to the give way line at the roundabout which until last week was an

LEISURE & CULTURE

Chinese Horoscope

editorial@ic-news.com

accident waiting to happen.

This resulted in a six car shunt as a stationary vehicle out of sight over the brow was hit from behind, and then followed the knock-on effect of the others colliding with the vehicles in front of them. This situation is compounded as traffic from Buzanada wishing to leave the roundabout to travel towards Los Cristianos on the back road has to pass very close to the slip road give-way line and the view to the left from the slip road is restricted considerably.

At the Palm Mar end of the Guaza bypass is another roundabout where normal give way procedures make it so traffic entering it from the centre of Guaza have priority, therefore creating a tailback on the bypass which, at busy times, stretches back to the motorway roundabout and then gridlock ensues as vehicles travelling in the opposite direction wanting to access the southbound motor way are prevented from crossing traffic from Buzanada as the queue builds up along that road, in part because no-one leaves a gap at the crossover point. The traffic on the motorway roundabout is then at a standstill.

So, it seems nothing has been achieved by this new

layout, other than to create the same queues. All this could have been avoided by a raised link to the bypass and a further slip road through at the Palm Mar end of Guaza.

It would be interesting to find out whether this was the original intention and the money ran out, making it so such a compromise had to be reached. Is a link planned for the future? Who knows?

Sincerely A FRUSTATED COMMUTER

A matter of fact?

Dear Editor According to the front page of one of the other English language newspapers in Tenerife, the tragedy of 9/11 happened just a week after the death of Princess Diana, both occurring, so we are informed, in 1997. I have heard of re-writing history, but surely this is something of a record.

Yours in confusion KATHLEEN WHELAN Adeje

37

Beach football 1956 Dear Editor

A

ttached is a photo of a group of youngsters who let me join in their football kick-about in Las Palmas in 1956. I am of course the young man at the back.

At that time I was a quartermaster on the S.S. Stirling Castle and we always docked in Las Palmas on our voyage from Cape Town to Southampton. Las Palmas was a pleasant town in those days before the influx of the tourist trade. My hope is that some of the youngsters will recognise themselves and, who knows that, that may be the only photo of them at that age.

By Daniela Herzberg & Roger Keller daniela@5-elementos.com / Tel. +34 650 830 506 / www.5-elementos.com

Daniela Herzberg & Roger Keller are based in the southwest of Tenerife. They both are certified Feng Shui and Chinese Astrology consultants and Cosmic Healers and work and teach in Tenerife and Germany. Their comprehensive knowledge about Feng Shui, Chinese Astrology and the five elements is a result of their work with Derek Walters, one of the most respected Feng Shui masters in the world.

They have published several books about Chinese Astrology and how to increase your health and vitality with the five elements, with recipes from all over the world.

Rat (1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008) You should be more careful when making new contacts: So-called friends may prove not to be so now. Good time to reframe your life and change direction.

Ox (1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009) Favourable influences may help you to climb the career ladder now. Personal relationships may prosper as well – there may also be a new love interest showing up.

Tiger (1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998) Sometimes it is necessary to rely on third parties to resolve a problem. Do not try to fix everything alone, but ask for help if you need it.

Rabbit (1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999)

BILL DOUGAN

Personal relationships will reach a high point now, bringing joy and satisfaction, even if your new love is not approved by family and friends.

(If you do recognise yourself from the photo do get in touch with us. Ed)

Dragon (1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000) Business and career prospects show promise, so prepare yourself to take the necessary steps to keep things going as soon as you get the right signals.

Click Pastimes

Snake (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001) The snake can prosper in all spheres of life right now, though personal advancement and public recognition will be priorities.

Horse (1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002) Do not focus too much on leisure, but concentrate on hard work to make this time productive. There will still be enough time to enjoy life.

Sent by Bill Dougan

[ For Crossword and Sudoku solution see classifieds section ]

Across

1 - collections (7) 4 - small children (5) 7 - move forward (5) 8 - working together (7) 9 - immobilise (4) 10 - shelter (3) 11 - this place (4) 15 - under water (9) 17 - zero (4) 19 - Mediterranean tree (3) 20 - sailors (4) 24 - portable computers (7) 25 - cooks (5) 26 - role; office (5) 27 - reading (7)

Down

1 - fasteners (5) 2 - languages (7) 3 - dyes (4) 4 - attach together (4) 5 - boat (5) 6 - legume (7) 8 - reminders (9) 12 - fall back (3) 13 - pride (3) 14 - light givers (7) 16 - softens (7) 18 - pause (5) 21 - hood (5) 22 - congregation (4) 23 - blemish (4)

Sheep (1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003) Why not be a little more adventurous? You may as well move from the cloistered confines of the circle of family and friends and try to achieve something on your own.

Monkey (1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004) There are so many things that you want to do, and so many ways for your ambitions to be thwarted. Look out for help to remain on the road to success.

Rooster (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005) Perfect time ahead for any rooster with the will to succeed. Strong partnerships are indicated, which can lead to better career prospects.

Dog (1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006) Reliability is hard to find for you at the moment.

To cope with the situation it is recommendable to have more than one solution to any problem.

Pig (1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007) Take special care of your health now to avoid setbacks. Do not take on more responsibility at work than you can manage.

The Chinese solar year starts around the February 4. If your birthday is in January or at the beginning of February your Chinese animal sign belongs to the year before. Example 27.1. 1967 still belongs to the year of the horse.

38

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Opinion: Tenerife ring road

“A destructive and unnecessary building work” BY: PLATAFORMA ICODENSE CONTRA EL ANILLO INSULAR AND BEN MAGECECOLOGISTAS EN ACCIÓN The insular ring is a new road, now in construction, that crosses the midlands of the north of Tenerife: a rural landscape of strong agricultural tradition and beautiful scenery thanks to its natural appeal. The road by-passes Los Silos through a tunnel and comes out in Santiago del Teide, on the southwest of the island.

The justifications by politicians and promoters who are defending the work is that it aims to be an answer to the saturation and difficulties of traffic on the regional TF-82 road as well as on those roads that pass by the neighbourhoods of the midlands of Icod, which are used daily by people who drive to the south of the island.

However, this building work has given rise to protest among people who do not wish to witness the loss of the values that form the iden-

tity of their neighbourhoods and the disappearance of an architectural, cultural and environmental landscape which will never be recovered.

Among the matters detrimental to people affected will be the destruction of 110 homes, more than 775 families directly af fected, not to mention the fall in the quality of life for many

more due to the noise, the insecurity and the loss of the values that are linked to their rural environment.

This will be compounded by the disappearance of long standing traditions like the processions of El Poleo and Los Hachitos and the loss of several ancient paths.

Environmental disasters will include the impact on

Costa Adeje

Joy to the world ADEJE HOSTED THE FIRST EVER DIVINE ILLUMINATION CEREMONY The Playa de la Enramada in Adeje recently hosted the first ever Divine Illumination ceremony to be performed in Europe, organised by president Carlos Mirpuri and vice president Jagdish Fabiani of the Tenerife South Hindu Association and the festival director, Ramesh Nar yani.

This is normally a daily event referred to by Hindus as their happy hour, which takes place on the banks of the sacred River Ganges.

On the evening of May 3rd, Tenerife’s Hindu population, wearing their most colourful saris and robes, proudly welcomed one of India’s most significant and well known spiritual leaders, H.H. Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji to give the traditional blessing at this Festival for Peace.

But this event was not only for the Hindu population, ever yone was invited, regardless of their nationality or religion, and it was clear

from the sheer numbers in attendance that it was indeed of interest to all.

Clouds which had dominated the day disappeared to give a sunny evening so that everyone could enjoy celestial music and dance, followed by a play expertly performed by children from the Hindu community which described in perfect detail

the legend of how the River Ganges came to the Earth from Heaven in response to prayers by a descendant of an ancient ruler who had been told that the waters of the river would miraculously purify the ashes of his ancestors and bring them back to life. Speeches followed, during which His Highness thanked the mayor, José

Miguel Rodríguez Fraga and his cultural depar tment for agreeing to host this event in Adeje, and told the public that he has already invited the mayor to the next international yoga festival in India which will be attended by people from 100 countries around the world, and that the mayor should be responsible for

the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. At sunset everyone made their way down to the shore, flames were lit, and the air was full of smoke as they faced the sea and called upon the power of the sacred River Ganges to help the whole world to survive the current crisis and to live in peace and harmony.

In a truly uplifting experience, Fraga was true to his commitment to a peaceful co-existence between the many different cultures living in the borough of Adeje, donning garlands to join in with the ceremony.

The event also served as a platform for the inauguration of the book called Peace, written by H.H. Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji and now translated into Spanish.

Everyone who attended was give a free copy in their chosen language before leaving the beach. More photos can be seen on our website, www. islandconnections.eu.

areas of first rate geological interest such as the cave of El Viento, the lava flow of El Chinyero (legal protection for which has been removed), the Protected Landscape of of La Culata cliffs (with its associated flora and fauna) or the expected destr uction of the aquiferous layer that supplies water to Las Furnias, a thermophilous laurel forest located within the aforementioned natural protected area. The work will also damage protected species of the Canarian flora and fauna, like Bolle’s laurel pigeon and the blue chaffinch, as well as certain habitats of importance to the European Community. As to the cultural heritage, this infrastructure will cut and divide numerous paths, some ancient royal roads, houses that have been classified as Places of Cultural Interest, and historic elements of the agricultural past, such as threshing floors and wine presses.

Economically, a great part of the area of agricultural use of Icod will be dealt a ‘death blow’, 800 water assets will be lost, and small and medium size firms will be less competitive compared to the large shopping centres to which the public will now have better access. The economic development of the north shall be held back in favour of an economic system in serious crisis, based on the excessive growth of the south; always linked to the building sector.

Tourism will also lose one of its main assets: the landscape and originality of a culture linked to a mountainous and volcanic island.

All this is done to build a completely unnecessar y motor road that, besides all this, breaches European and national laws, and whose administrative process has been plagued with irregularities.

The reports that have been issued by the Government, as well as being scarce and badly furnished with accurate information, inexistent or with too many technical terms, have given rise to confusion among the general public as well as among those who are directly affected.

The public needs a study and evaluation of this infrastructure that is reliable and consistent with the physical geography and population of the area, and also with the real communication needs of the north of the island; one that considers the restoration of the existing road as a real alternative and therefore discards the projected route.

The opinions expressed in the above article are those of the authors, are independent and do not necessarily reflect the views of Island Connections. We welcome opinion pieces on matters relevant to the Canaries.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Flypa

SPORT PROMOTION

39

Sports Programme Visitors watched open mouthed

Business support for Adeje sport The Adeje councillor for sport, Marcos Barrera was fulsome in his praise of the 23 businesses who are contributing to the municipal spor ts of fer despite the crisis.

The presentation took place in the classy Plaza del Duque shopping centre and ten newcomers to the cooperation scheme were presented with certificates to display in their premises to show how, “the business class shows solidarity with the public and has a sense of social responsibility”. This is the second year the scheme has been running and Barrera hopes it is only the early days of a long relationship.

The businesses each offer financial aid or support in kind to the council’s sports department and in turn they are given public recognition and their company logo appears on all the posters advertising the event.

Dropping in Siam Park’s fabulous white sand beach found a new use recently as a landing pad for a top parachutists.

The B.A.S.E. jumper for Red Bull, Juan Ventura, was visiting Tenerife to take part in the Los Realejos Flypa 2009 competition and was one of the jumpers to dive from a great height at over 120 km to land in Siam Park.

B.A.S.E jumpers use no emergency chute which means the parachutist has no margin for error. Park visitors watched open-mouthed as parachutists came in over the most spectacular water park in Europe.

Marcos Barrera (centre) with members of his team and representatives of the sponsoring businesses

There are now 65 sports clubs and 6,000 people taking part regularly in sport in Adeje but the council would like to see double that number involved this year. That is why their programme is so wide-ranging to attract not only sportsmen and women but those who’ve not yet

decided what they want to do. The council also produce a magazine, Grada, listing the companies taking part in the scheme and all the sports events and facilities in Adeje. Upcoming events include a skating tournament on May 24th, a game between a local club and a team from

the ACB, courses for padel monitors, and a squash championship. Check out the sports department section on the council’s web page, www.adeje.es, on a regular basis to see the amazing offer for all ages and talents, from classic car rallies to capoeira and hockey to hacking.

XIV Rotary Golf Charity Tournament

Come and see us Golf and giving me and see

Tina Pazera being presented with her prize in the Ladies category

WINNERS

Bowen, 2nd Alejandro Reyes de Paz, 3rd Danny McTigue Ladies categor y: 1st Tina Pazera, 2nd Marina Elizaguirre Aracena, 3rd Catherine O’Connor Longest drive (men) Claudio Francioni, (women) Catherine O’Connor Nearest to pin: Francisco Rodriguez Castro

Male categor y 1: 1st Gary England, 2nd Claudio Francioni, 3rd Clive Bruckshaw Male categor y 2: 1st Keith

The day’s sporting activities over, everyone enjoyed a superb buffet lunch as well as a very well stocked raffle for all

Over 80 golfers took part in the recent Rotary Golf charity tournament in Costa Adeje Golf, mostly ex-pat British and Irish residents from the south of Tenerife.

the players with trips to most of the islands with weekend stays at hotels, transfers etc, digital cameras, green fees to most of the courses of the island, and many other prizes.

The proceed of this charity event, which came up to over €20,000 will go entirely to the borough of Adeje, Arona and San Miguel to buy food and household items for families in need due the recent crisis.

These will be handed over in a separate ceremony later in the month.

Puerto de la Cruz Markets

Open every Sunday from 9am - 2pm, in Urb La Paz, beside Supermercado 2000

Information 922 713 246

40

CLASSIFIEDS / PROMOTION

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Island Connections Media Group Karen Swift Classifieds Manager

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM – 5PM

01.

Situations Vacant

CLASSIFIED’S DEADLINE The deadline for edition 591, which is published on 22nd May, is Thursday 14th May at 5pm.

No classified’s will be taken after this date.

Las Chafiras Calle Francisco Feo Rodríguez 6º- first floor. Pol. Industrial Las Chafiras 38620 San Miguel de Abona.

Tel. 922 750 609 Fax: 922 795 810 To Cho - Guargacho - Las

Galletas

ITV

To Golf MERCADONA del Sur

Promotions company with more than 10 years experience is selling attractive, high quality products in Tenerife at markets, 5* hotels and superstores, is looking for open minded full/parttime promoters, which like to present and sell in a

TF-1 to Los Cristianos Las Américas To San Miguel TF-1 To Airport Santa Cruz

High pay structure To Los Abrigos

Royal Palm

World’s Los Cristianos. leading Calle El Rodeo. timeshare Apt. Royal Palm Reception. company Tel. 922 750 609 Los Alisios start Immediate Castle Harbour · · ·Paradise Park

Acomodation CC Passarella Cristian Oasis Sur Available Beverly Hill Steve Atlántida Reverón 600 372 514 Victoria ROYAL Court

Mar

PALM

y after Jardines Sol4pm SUNDAY MARKET

Canarios

Rates Lineage classifieds: From 15.75 € Boxed Ads: Black& White 57.75€ Coloured 68.25€ Long Term: Ask for our special rates Island Connections Newspaper http://www.ic-news.com

If you are between 18 and 30 years old, female, and you have all it takes to convert yourself into one of our models and do NOT possess a contract with any model agency, please e-mail us with the following information:

to marketing@tenerifepearl.net

Sales staff wanted FIRE STATION

Tenerife Pearl / Perla Canaria is looking for models for its campaigns

• 3 photos (face, profile, body) • Personal info (full name, date and place of birth, phone nº, city, e-mail) • Measurements (height, breast, waist, hip, weight, eye and hair colour)

Collection Points

ISLAND CONNECTIONS LAS CHAFIRAS

CLASSIFIEDS / SITUATIONS VACANT

live promotion. No selling experience is required!

Contract + Social Security + Fixed Salary + Commission is guaranteed. Feel free to contact us for further information. Office: 922 78 15 48 Fax: 922 78 15 48 Mobile: 629 493799.

Succeed At The Highest Level Even in the current economic climate we need extra help in order to fulfil our customers needs... We require the best in the marketplace. Have you got what it takes?

Our media group has traditionally led the field and will continue to do so by hiring the best and remunerating them accordingly.

Advertising Consultants (Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera)

Night Owl (Sales person) (Tenerife)

Daily News Site http://www.newscanarias.net Tenerife Office Tel: 922 750 609 Mob: 609 581 632 Fax: 922 795 810 Classifieds Section: classifieds@ic-news.com Sales Department: sales@ic-news.com Gran Canaria Office Tel: 928 353 279/ Fax: 928 359 744 grancanaria@ic-news.com

Class. Info For personal and professional help in placing your classified in Island Connections all you need to do is pop along to our new offices in Las Chafiras and speak to Karen.

Not only is Island Connections here to ensure that your advertisement reaches it’s target market, we will also advise on sizing requirements for maximum exposure, with prices to suit your pocket.

Circulation controlled by:

Do you possess: Positive attitude and strong character. Self discipline and sales experience.

Spanish or German language to negotiation level. Self motivation and team skills. Teachability and 100% integrity. Trustworthiness and references.

If so then you could be what we are looking for. Media experience would be an advantage, but not essential as training will be given.

Distribución Gratuita

Publisher & Proprietor Tina Straub, Joe Schacher

Island Connections S.L. C.I.F: B-38748315 Printed by Artes Gráficas del Atlántico S.A. Dep. Legal: TF-287/93

If you would like to apply for any of the above positions, send your CV, two references, an up-to-date photo and covering letter to director@ic-news.com • henrycruz@ic-news.com • Fax: 922 79 58 10

41

To advertise in this space

Ring

922 750 609 Telephone sales staff required - English speaking -

Tel. 629 613 119

42

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

CLASSIFIEDS / MOTORING / CONTACTS

Jaguar X-type 2.0D CLA 2Litres. Kms: 83000kms. Year: 2003. Diesel. Doors: 2. Price: 16500€. Tel: 685501440 Ford Puma 1.4Litres.

Kms: 150000kms. Year: 2001.

Petrol. Doors: 2. Price: 4700€.

Tel: 661451338

02.

Motoring Automotive Technicians UK trained technicians Diagnostics and automatic gearbox specialists Full service reports supplied Guaranteed agreed price servicing Services carried out at your work, home or at our workshop We carry out Pre-ITV checks and take your car for the ITC

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Long term Car lease or purchase from 200 euros per month, full insurance, no excess, we come to you.

Tel 634 028892 For the best car hire around ring

Niza Cars on 922 792 919 or Fax 922 793868

CARS TO RENT LONG TERM 250€ - 300€ PER MONTH INCL. INSURANCE Phone Terry on 661 264 080 Email: terrybury@gmail.com The family friendly car hire company

Chrysler PT Cruiser 2Litres.

Kms: 136000kms. Year: 2001.

Petrol. Doors: 4. Price: 6900€.

Mercedes Benz, SEL Tel: 646369907 600 V12 400cv, 5p, 1993, 180,000 km, black, automatic, BMW X5 3.0 D 3Litres. Kms: ABS, four airbags, traction 85000kms. Year: 2003. Diesel. control, ESP, speed limiter. Doors: 4. Price: 25500€. Tel: Leather grey inner with 651826200 walnut wood, air-con, heating system, adjustable setas with Ford Mustang Cnvrtbl electronic memory. Central 4Litres. Kms: 165000kms. locking, double crystal lamps, Year: 1998. Petrol. Convertible sun roof, electronic rear view mirrors, nearly new Doors: 2. Price: 15000€. Tel: wheels. Just passed ITC, 922743578 fully equipped, ver y good condition, 16,000 euros, tel Ford Focus 1.8Litres.

Kms: 100000kms. Year: 2002.

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Suzuki Jimny 1.5D, 2004, Tel: 634239960 52,000 kms, air con, alarm, fender, hardtop, 8.800 euros, Opel Astra 1.6Litres. Kms:.

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Kms: 180000kms. Year: 2000. Mercedes-Benz Case Petrol. Doors: 2. Price: 7800€. 40XT Minip 2.5Litres. Kms: Tel: 606552281 5100kms. Year: 2002. Diesel.

Doors: 2. Price: 19650€. Tel: Opel Astra G Caravan 678239156 1.7Litres. Kms: 172000kms.

Year: 2000. Diesel. Doors: Suzuki Samuray 1.3Litres.

2 . P r i c e : 3 8 0 0 € . T e l : Kms: 218000kms. Year: 1992.

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Kms: 150000kms. Petrol. Ford ka edicion limi Doors: 2. Price: 1400€. Tel: 1.3Litres. Kms: 85000kms.

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Rover RT 1.6 1.6Litres. Year: 1997. Petrol. Doors: Kms: 77000kms. Year: 1997. 2 . P r i c e : 4 0 0 0 € . T e l : Petrol. Doors: 4. Price: 1800€. 922580035 Tel: 625692869 Mini Cooper 1.6Litres.

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Kms:. Year: 2006. Petrol.

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Poul's Auto – your car-hire company in South West Tenerife Mon-Fri, 8.30am – 12 midday, 5pm – 7pm / Sat 8.30am – 12 midday / Sun 10am – 12 midday

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Volkswagen golf III 1.8Litres. Kms: 188000kms.

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Tel: 666158980 Honda shadow 600 vt 600CC. Horsepower: 44HP. Year: 1997 Kms: 20000kms. Price: 3600€. Tel: 922956178 Lanvertti mini buggy 49cc Quad 49CC. Price: 525€. Tel: 922636211 Lanvertti mini trial 49CC. Price: 330€. Tel: 922636211 Lanvertti mini moto cross 49CC. Price: 270€.

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ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

CLASSIFIEDS / GENERAL SERVICES

Conveyancing • Criminal law • Wills

P.J ELECTRICAL SERVICES

04.

General Services

Employment law • Family law • Personal injury

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HOMESTYLEDIRECT Quality Furniture Importers.

Pol.Industrial Las Chafiras. Tenerife South 922 736 849

Hair ¡ Beauty ¡ Nails ¡ B Osteopathy ¡ Acupuncture ¡ ¡ Chiropody E Reiki &¡ Reflexology Holistic Massage ¡ ¡ Indian Head L Aromatherapy Massage ¡ Sports Injury ¡ Electrolysis L Sports Centre Los Gigantes Tel / Fax 922 867 343 I San Eugenio Alto (next to Roy’s Pizzas) Tel / Fax 922 719 355 S m Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm S Health Advice midwifery, I TUE & FRI nursing care M A M A RY COHR PARIS

Š IC/574/08

43

I listen to what you want and make sure you get the best.

I can replace that faulty tap or renovate your home.

Over 30 year’s experience. UK qualiďŹ ed to advanced skills status.

Call any time 922 814 073 / 605 469 352 rjmcalees@yahoo.com

Video tapes copied.

Super 8 and VHS to DVD. Make it safe for the next generation.

Phone 922 797 104

Pro-Tile

A professional all inclusive tiling service. • No obligation design consultation. • Comprehensive quotation, separating tradesman, labourer and materials. • Ceramic, porcelanico, marble, granite, or natural stone. • All associated works such as terrace bases, drainage, bathroom fitting, plumbling and kitchen fitting carried out.

All work fully guaranteed and insured.

Tel: 600 328 561

FREE, no obligation survey & quotation

Polígono Industrial Las Chafiras III, C. Caracas Nave 4 - 38639 S. Miguel de Abona ¡ Tenerife Tel: +34 922 736738 Fax: +34 922 735 123 Email: info@canariesbritish.com ¡ web: www.cbas.eu

Canaries & British Aluminium Systems S.L. A British owned company - Established in Tenerife 1992 VISIT OUR COMPREHENSIVE SHOWROOM "See the best display in Tenerife" We manufacture, supply and fit: All types of doors and window systems, insect screens, mirrored wardrobes, balcony screens and partitions. All types and sizes of gates, electric, manual and telephone entry etc.

Garage doors, louvered shutters, fixed or adjustable louvers, pergolas, balustrades, cupboards, roofing, mobile roofs (manual or electric),extensions, conservatories, shower screens and cubicles, tiling, building. All types of glass mirrors.

Security shutters, high security locks and glass. Take advantage of our free security survey.

NEW - GLASS CURTAINS 'Why spoil the view" *Frameless folding glass doors and windows* Ideal for balcony/terrace enclosures and for existing patio areas See all the above in our showroom and watch the manufacturing process.

WE ONLY SELL WHAT WE MAKE - WE ARE NOT MIDDLE MEN. Directions: With Iceland on your right, take the second turn left after the ITV station and we are on your left behind Autos Tenerife.

44

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

CLASSIFIEDS / GENERAL SERVICES

CLIMATE CONTROL

04.

CHOOSE FROM AIR CONDITIONING, FAN HEATING OR DEHUMIDIFYING TO BE COMFORTABLE WHATEVER THE WEATHER !

General Services

from

â‚Ź585

*Illustration purposes only

Items For Sale:

FITTED

SPECIAL OFFER!!!

Real Bargain!!

Computer for sale Compaq Presario PENTIUM 4 (2007) with Printer/Scanner HP Photosmart C6180

SPECIAL DISCOUNTS ON PURCHASES OF 2 OR MORE MACHINES

POOL HEATING

500â‚Ź

Make the most of your pool ALL YEAR ROUND Affordable Pool Heating 10 Year from less than 1 euro / day Guarantee! from â‚Ź4,499 fitted

Tel. 677 799 475

Masonic Meetings:

Invest in the Best, with AC Direct - Established Professionals YOU CAN TRUST!

MASONIC MEETINGS

Domestic, Commercial & Industrial, with good after sales service.

A C DIRECT 902 789 189 www.acdairconditioning.com

AIRES L Solar systems Sanitation systems

Tony the Welder • Security Grilles

Swimming pools Air conditioning

• Gates • Railings • Steel Fabrication • On-site Welding

Thomas Dolz has a German engineering diploma and is an expert on sanitation, heating and air conditioning systems

www.airesol.net

Fully Qualified Legal Craftsman 27 years experience, 14 years Tenerife

Tel: 659 489 690 AIRESOL CANARIAS, S.L. Plaza de Venezuela, 1. 38670 Adeje (Behind the bus stop - between the Post Office and the Health Centre) Tel.: 922 79 28 39 - 922 79 44 93. Fax: 922 75 06 02. Mob: 630 410 011

Reformas

Drawn to the world of beauty? are recruiting; Beauty consultants Free training

Would you like to change your house or apartment into a beautiful & cosy home? Or maybe all you need is a small renovation job? All with top quality ďŹ nishing?

Refurbishment

ŠIC/534/2007

FULL RENOVATION WORK

922 127 679 or cv to MarcelCluny@gmail.com

tel: 677 799 475

For the best car hire around ring

COMPUTER SALES AND SERVICE

-BQUPQT GSPN Ŏ p #BTJD TZTUFNT GSPN Ŏ 3FQBJST BMM DPOTVNBCMFT GPS ZPVS 1$ *OTUBMMBUJPOT p ZFBST FYQFSJFODF ŠIC/576/08

4QBOJTI 7JTUB MBQUPQT VQHSBEFE UP &OHMJTI 1 0 " 4VFĂ’P "[VM MPDBM $BMMBP 4BMWBKF "EFKF 1IPOF p .PCJMF & NBJM JOGP!FB[ZQD UFOFSJGF DPN

Property Secured, Quality Assured

Niza Cars on 922 792 919 or Fax 922 793868

of Houses and Apartments ¡ Painting and Decoration ¡ ¡ Tiling ¡ ¡ Plumbing ¡ ¡ Electric installations ¡ ¡ Complete bathrooms ¡ Fully QualiďŹ ed Legal Craftsman with more than 15 years experience. Located in the South of Tenerife.

Tel.

637 293 176

LODGE AVE FENIX MEET REGULARLY ON TUESDAY EVENINGS IN THEIR OWN NEW TEMPLE AT LOS CRISTIANOS ................

Please contact the Secretary John Donaldson on Tel. 922 17 91 74 e-mail: donaldsonjh@yahoo.co.uk

ALL WELCOME

LODGE TEIDE meets in Puerto de la Cruz on Wednesday evenings contact John Hughes on 922 38 22 29 email taffy007naeve@ yahoo.com

Horse sharing!

I am offering horse sharing for my 5 year old gelding. He is a very quiet horse and enjoys rides.

Interested?

Please call 609 929 278

Furniture : HOMESTYLE DIRECT S.L.

SKIP HIRE & BUILDING MATERIALS DELIVERY (&/&3"- 53"/41035"5*0/ 0' "-- #6*-%*/( ."5&3*"-4 4BOE p #BMMBTU p $FNFOU p #SJDLT p #MPDLT

$BMM

QUALITY FURNITURE IMPORTERS

HOMESTYLEDIRECT Quality Furniture Importers.

Pol.Industrial Las Chafiras. Tenerife South 922 736 849

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BRIGID (OTHERWISE BRIDGET) FAY, DECEASED LATE OF 102 RAFTERS ROAD, DRIMNAGH, DUBLIN 12 IN THE CITY OF DUBLIN Would Joseph Fay, born the 19th day of March 1949, last heard of in Dublin approximately 1990 and believed to have since emigrated to the United Kingdom and/or to the Canary Islands (or his children if any) please contact Cullen & Co Solicitors in relation to claiming his share in the Estate of his mother Brigid (otherwise Bridget) Fay (deceased), late of 102 Rafters Road, Drimnagh, Dublin 12 on or before the 8th of May 2009.

Insurance :

LINEA DIRECTA Your direct line to cheaper home insurance Call 902 123 738

Rent :

Please contact: CULLEN & CO SOLICITORS 86-88 TYRCONNELL ROAD, INCHICORE, DUBLIN 8, IRELAND Tel: 00 353 1 453 6114 enquiries@cullencosolicitors.com

Wanted :

05.

Property Business Opps : For lease restaurant, working with good client base Beautiful local with a family feel, ample parking Tel 637 560 700

Lovely dance studio for rent in Callao Salvaje Air conditioned, wood floor, mirrors and barres.

Shower, wc. Kitchen, music system and TV and video, telephone the studio on 922 743639

Desperate to sell your property ? We will buy your house or apar tment for Cash, and complete within 28 Days. We are not Agents. Call (0034) 922 720222 or visit www. tenerifehomebuyers.com

Rent : Available to rent – local with large terrace in prime position in Los Cristianos.

Ideal for Hairdressers, office or similar. Tel 629 911338 Studios, 1 and 2 bed apartments from 400€ for rent to mature-minded people in south Tenerife. UK TV channels. For details, phone Nadine: 922 715 162 Beautiful duplex to rent in La Paz (Puerto de la Cruz), 200m2, 100m2 garden, 2 big terraces, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, fully equipped and garage, 800 euros per month, tel 670 817821

Have you had to close your business?

Have you been left with 100's or even 1000's of euros worth of stock?

In Playa de Fañabé, apt, 3 bed, 2 bath, fully furnished, independent kitchen, terrace 35m 2, community pool and playground, excellent location, close to commercial centres and 800 metres from the beach. Price: €875/month.

Tel. 629 244 958 2 bedroom rustic apartment, fantastic views, Callao Salvaje. Kitchen, lounge, dining room, bath/ shower, bidet. Private terrace, views over La Gomera. wwthedataweb.co.uk 725 euros per month plus bills, non smokers/pets. Tel 628 109274 Los Cristianos by the sea. Lovely apartment, one bedroom, living room, kitchen etc. TV, washing machine, sea views from 550 euors per month, tel 922 752759 / 608 425426 Golf del Sur, attractive villa, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms in exceptional position surrounded by lakes, golf course, gardens and sea views. Heated pool. Parking by front door, no pets. 850 euros per month. Tel 627 219001 Chayofa, La Finca, 2 bedroom , 2 bathroom apartment, fully furnished and equipped, large patio and gardens, secure large garage, no pets, 720 euros inclusive, tel 630 343632 Chayofa, La Finca, 3 bed town house, unfurnished, garage included, 800 euros per month plus bills. Tel 610 753675 To w n h o u s e , 3 b e d (double), 2 bath (I en-suite) 1 toilet, 2 terraces, storeroom, partly or fully furnished, 750 euros per month. Lalano del Camello (Las Chafiras), tel 636 636680 Apartment. Corralejo.

Location: central. Views: sea. 60.00m2. 1 room. 600€.

Phone: 629401634

Turn that stock into cash.

You can reach over 2000 new customers every week. No long term commitments, low rents.

Don't look at it sell it! Join Tenerife's busiest marketplace!

Telephone George on

922 752 300

Studio. Puerto de la Cruz.

Location: central. Views: sea. 35.00m2. 400€. Phone: 670242080

CLASSIFIEDS / PROPERTY

mountain 30.00m2. 550€.

Phone: 670242080

50.00m2. 450€. Phone: 922273239

980.00m2. 3044€. Phone: 678353414

Studio. Puerto de la Cruz.

Location: central. 30.00m2.

450€. Phone: 670242080

Apartment. Tabaiba Baja.

Location: outskirts. Views: sea. 50.00m2. 1 room. 400€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Bajada al Pris 59.00m2. 2 rooms. 450€.

Phone: 670242080

Unknown. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

200.00m2. 4 rooms. 1200€.

Phone: 922273239 Industrial. La Laguna.

Location: outskir ts 1050.00m2. 6000€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

170.00m2. 4 rooms. 800€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Puerto de la Cruz. Location: central. Views: mountain 60.00m2. 1 room.

550€. Phone: 670242080 Chalet. Caleta Fuste.

Location: central. Views: sea. 156.00m2. 3 rooms. 750€.

Phone: 605781981 Apartment. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

75.00m2. 2 rooms. 550€.

Phone: 922273239 Unknown. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

130.00m2. 950€. Phone: 922273239

Premises. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

130.00m2. 3 rooms. 1000€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Adeje.

Location: central. 100.00m2.

4 rooms. 750€. Phone: 622026210 Apartment.Los Cristianos.

Location: central. Views: sea. 90.00m2. 3 rooms. 660€.

Phone: 622026210 Apartment.Los Cristianos.

Location: central. 55.00m2.

1 room. 530€. Phone: 622026210 Apartment. Buzanada.

Location: central. 65.00m2.

2 rooms. 540€. Phone: 622026210 Apartment.Los Cristianos.

Location: central. Views: mountain 90.00m2. 2 rooms.

800€. Phone: 622026210

Apartment. Urb. paraiso 52.00m2. 1 room. 650€. Phone: 670242080 Studio. 36.00m2. 450€.

Phone: 670242080 Studio. 36.00m2. 450€.

Phone: 670242080 Terraced house. Durazno 166.00m2. 3 rooms. 800€.

Phone: 670242080 A p a r t m e n t . 0.00m2.

3 rooms. 750€. Phone: 670242080 Apartment. 44.00m2.

1 room. 650€. Phone: 670242080 Studio. 0.00m2. 400€.

Phone: 670242080 Studio. 35.00m2. 480€.

Phone: 670242080 Chalet. Las Candias 100.00m2. 2 rooms. 1000€.

Phone: 670242080

Unknown. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

60.00m2. 2 rooms. 550€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

130.00m2. 4 rooms. 750€.

Phone: 922273239 Unknown. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

130.00m2. 700€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

Views: sea. 60.00m2. 2 rooms.

800€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Minilla 125.00m2. 4 rooms. 850€.

Phone: 600253788 Studio. 29 de Abril 40.00m2. 1 room. 400€.

Phone: 600253788 Unknown. Alcaravaneras 60.00m2. 2 rooms. 650€.

Phone: 600253788 Apartment. Torviscas Alto. Location: outskir ts 45.00m2. 1 room. 550€.

Phone: 922751064 Apartment. -Fañabe.

Location: outskirts 0.00m2.

2 rooms. 795€. Phone: 922751064 Apartment. Valle San Lorenzo. Location: central.

60.00m2. 2 rooms. 495€.

Phone: 922751064

Apartment. Carretera G e n e ra l C 8 2 0 . V i e w s : mountain 80.00m2. 2 rooms.

500€. Phone: 922371495 Apartment. La Laguna.

Location: central. 60.00m2.

2 rooms. 550€. Phone: 922273239 P r e m i s e s . G á l d a r.

Location: central. 200.00m2.

5 rooms. 1500€. Phone: 686955971 Chalet. Playa de Sardina.

Location: central. Views: sea.

135.00m2. 3 rooms. 600€.

Phone: 686955971 Apartment. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

60.00m2. 2 rooms. 550€.

Phone: 922273239 Premises. Vistabella.

Location: central.

80.00m2. 1200€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

Views: sea. 1000.00m2. 3 rooms. 1200€. Phone: 922273239

Unknown. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

55.00m2. 2 rooms. 380€.

Phone: 922273239

Premises. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

0.00m2. 2000€. Phone: 922273239

Studio. Puerto de la Cruz.

Location: central. 36.00m2.

420€. Phone: 670242080

Apartment. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: outskirts 250.00m2. 700€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Las Chafiras.

Location: central. Views: mountain 80.00m2. 3 rooms.

550€. Phone: 622026210

Studio. Puerto de la Cruz.

Location: outskirts. Views:

Premises. Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

Premises. Urb.Ind.El Goro. Location: outskir ts

Studio. Puerto de la Cruz.

Location: central. Views: sea. 30.00m2. 420€. Phone: 670242080

45

Premises. avenida generalísimo 183.00m2. 1500€.

Phone: 670242080 Studio. 38.00m2. 480€.

Phone: 670242080 Studio. San Fernando 33.00m2. 400€. Phone: 670242080 Studio. avenida generalísimo 0.00m2. 400€.

Phone: 670242080 Apartment. Armeñime 77.00m2. 3 rooms. 500€.

Phone: 670242080 Apartment. Maritim 80.00m2. 1 room. 800€.

Phone: 670242080 Duplex. Maritim 80.00m2.

1 room. 800€. Phone: 670242080 Apartment. 61.48m2.

2 rooms. 600€. Phone: 670242080 Apartment. avenida generalísimo 60.00m2. 1 room.

550€. Phone: 670242080 Apartment. avenida generalísimo 36.00m2. 1 room.

450€. Phone: 670242080 Studio. 32.00m2. 450€.

Phone: 670242080 Apartment. Armeñime 49.00m2. 1 room. 380€.

Phone: 670242080 Studio. 32.00m2. 450€.

Phone: 670242080 Apartment. 50.00m2.

1 room. 350€. Phone: 670242080

46

CLASSIFIEDS / PROPERTY

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

05.

Property For sale town house in San Isidro

1 room. 75000€. Phone: 670804067 Rustic Land. La Hoya.

Location: outskirts. Views: mountain 12000.00m 2 . 2 rooms. 300507€. Phone: 670804067 Terraced house. Masca.

Location: countr yside 70.00m2. 2 rooms. 120000€.

Phone: 659038027

4 bedrooms, lounge, dining room, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, w.c. downstairs, garage for 6 cars.

With commercial use, fully furnished, all this for €220,000. No time wasters please.

Tel. 619 866 849 / 609 101 401

Sale : El Médano, dir ectly from the owner!!! New, precious detached house, 3 bedrooms, 2 moder n bathrooms, indep. kitchen, 3 terraces,bbq, luxury complex with 2 swimming pools, 42m2 closed garage, very exclusive furnished. Quiet zone, Price: 330.000 euros, Tel: 650 792 742 Torviscas Alto/ Resid.

Casablanca, directly from the owner!!! Very beautiful apartment (53m2) in the most exclusive zone of Tenerife, 1 bedroom and an small officeroom, ver y big bathroom, 35m2 terrace with precious views, luxury complex with swimming pool and gardens.

Garage and store-room. Only 6 months old!!! Price: 183.000 euros, Tel: 650.792.742 Detached Villa in Callao Salvaje. Quiet cu de sac facing a barranco.

5 bedrooms,5 bathrooms, lounge,dining room,kitchen, utility and study.Garden, courtyard, heated swimming pool plus store rooms. Sea and mountain views. Can be

Villa Tagoro San Eugenio Alto

divided into 2 apartments.

Plot 400sq m. € 650,000. tel 607310854 Urgently to sell in Los Cristianos, by the sea, one bedroom apartment, living room, bathroom and kitchen, big balcony, garage, pool, panoramic view etc. 99.000 euros (no agents), 922 752759 / 608425426

Excellent opportunity in Costa del Silencio

Apartment, 73m2, 2 bed, 1 bath, American kitchen, fitted wardrobes. Terrace, 40m2 with views over Teide and the complex.

2 community pools, one heated and one salt water, playground and other services.

Price €82,000.

Tel. 629 244 958 Los Cristianos, by the sea, idea for wheelchair, 2 bedroom apartment, sun and fantastic view, garage, pool, 128,000 euros (no agents) 922 752759 Los Critianos, near the sea, 2 bed, 2 bath, 100m2, splendid views and sun, 56m2 terrace and balcony, 325.000 euros (no agents) 922 752759 / 608 425426

New 3 bedroom luxury villa 750,000€ Tel. (0034) 655 914 691 (0034) 922 71 33 56

To w n h o u s e , 3 b e d (double), 2 bath (I en-suite) 1 toilet, 2 terraces, storeroom, par tly or fully furnished, 200,000 euros. Lalano del Camello (Las Chafiras), tel 636 636680 Studio. Costa del Silencio. Location: central.

Views: mountain 45.00mc.

Room. Callao Salvaje.

Location: outskirts. Views: m o u n t a i n 2 8 0 . 0 0 m 2. 5 rooms. 850000€. Phone: 610732040 Apartment. Santa Úrsula.

Location: central. Views: sea 207.00m2. 3 rooms. 227000€.

Phone: 629711982 Apartment. S/C de Tenerife. Location: outskirts.

V iews: sea 102.00m 2 . 3 rooms. 162300€. Phone: 610745290

Apartment. Valle Tabares.

Location: central 47.00m2.

1 room. 4644€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 77.00m2. 2 rooms. 218000€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 60.00m2. 1 room. 198334€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. La Gallega.

Location: outskirts. Views: sea 73.00m2. 2 rooms. 158475€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

Views: mountain 45.00m2.

1 room. 210000€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. La Laguna.

Location: outskirts. Views: sea 80.00m2. 2 rooms. 168283€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Taco.

Location: central 49.00m2.

1 room. 104619€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. La Laguna.

Location: central 60.00m2.

2 rooms. 178000€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Finca España.

Location: outskirts 65.00m2.

2 rooms. 141237€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Taco.

Location: outskirts 77.00m2.

2 rooms. 147858€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Tabaiba Media. Location: central.

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

Views: mountain 87.00m2.

3 rooms. 234395€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

V iews: sea 100.00m2. 3 rooms. 297500€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Los Majuelos.

Location: outskirts. Views: sea 90.00m2. 3 rooms. 216364€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 157.00m2. 3 rooms. 320000€.

Phone: 922273239

Excellent opportunity

Apartment. Las Galletas. Location: central 38.00m 2 . 95000€. Phone: 617878616

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: outskirts 180.00m2. 3 rooms. 194000€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: outskirts 50.00m2. 1 room. 150000€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Santa Cruz De Tener. Location: central 45.00m2. 1 room. 185712€.

Phone: 922273239

Parking. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 0.00m2. 100€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Santa Cruz De Tenerf. Location: central 260.00m2. 4 rooms. 1081821€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Maria Jimenez. Location: outskirts 95.00m2. 3 rooms. 216500€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 135.00m2. 4 rooms. 456769€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment.Ifara.Location: central. Views: sea 179.00m2.

4 rooms. 390657€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. El Poris.

Location: central. Views: sea 70.00m2. 2 rooms. 170000€.

Phone: 922273239

Chalet. La Esperanza 0.00m2. 3 rooms. 263000€.

Phone: 647402749

Apartment. El Médano.

Location: central. Views: sea 80.00m2. 2 rooms. 234000€.

Phone: 679158954

Apartment. El Sauzal.

Location: central 125.00m2.

4 rooms. 249420€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: outskirts.

V iews: sea 115.00m2. 4 rooms. 220000€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Agua Dulce.

Location: outskirts. Views: sea 83.00m2. 3 rooms. 150000€.

Phone: 646650370

Apartment. Santa Cruz.

Location: central. Views: sea 106.00m2. 4 rooms. 252500€.

Phone: 649801275

Apartment. Tome Cano.

Location: central 50.00m2.

1 room. 150000€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Tenerife.

Location: central 179.00m2.

4 rooms. 390657€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. La Laguna.

Location: outskirts. Views: m o u n t a i n 1 4 9 . 0 0 m 2. 4 rooms. 285000€. Phone: 629262735

Chalet. Valle de San Lorenzo. Location: central.

V iews: sea 100.00m2. 3 rooms. 231000€. Phone: 922720551

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 231.00m2. 4 rooms. 619100€.

Phone: 922273239

C h a l e t . Ta c o r o n t e .

Location: central 320.00m2.

4 rooms. 515000€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. Urb. San Miguel.

Location: central. Views: sea 425.00m2. 4 rooms. 730000€.

Phone: 686020267

Terraced house. Caletillas.

Location: central. Views: sea 126.00m2. 3 rooms. 255000€.

Phone: 652431156

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central.

V iews: sea 184.00m2. 3 rooms. 781315€. Phone: 922273239

Frontline studio apartment for sale, partly furnished in a superb position with views of La Gomera. Recently refurbished.

Superb holiday or residential home; quiet zone, near to shops and restaurants.

Contact C. O’Flynn, 686 586 519 V iews: sea 60.00m2. 2 rooms. 148350€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Barranco Grande. Location: central 80.00m2. 2 rooms. 154500€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 100.00m2. 3 rooms. 216664€.

Phone: 922273239

Chalet.Tegueste. Location: outskir ts. Views: sea 118.00m2. 2 rooms. 200000€.

Phone: 922273239 Chalet.Tegueste. Location: outskir ts. Views: sea 118.00m2. 3 rooms. 210000€.

Phone: 922273239 Chalet.Tegueste. Location: outskir ts. Views: sea 150.00m2. 4 rooms. 280000€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. La Gallega.

Location: outskirts 84.00m2.

3 rooms. 141238€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Finca España.

Location: outskirts 51.00m2.

2 rooms. 132222€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 90.00m2. 3 rooms. 156273€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Finca España.

Location: central 61.00m2.

2 rooms. 150000€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment.Valle Tabares.

Location: outskirts 65.00m2.

2 rooms. 106000€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 80.00m2. 3 rooms. 252405€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. La Laguna.

Location: central 100.00m2.

3 rooms. 298132€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Los Majuelos.

Location: outskirts 50.00m2.

2 rooms. 125519€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Valle Tabares.

Location: outskirts 98.00m2.

3 rooms. 155000€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. La Laguna.

Location: outskirts 110.00m2.

3 rooms. 285000€. Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 90.00m2. 2 rooms. 238902€.

Phone: 922273239

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Residencial

La Duquesa Playa Fañabé

3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, front and back garden, comunity pool. €425,000 Tel. 629 244 958 Apartment. La Orotava.

Location: central 130.00m2.

3 rooms. 309521€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 0.00m2. 2 rooms. 270456€.

Phone: 922273239 Chalet. Radazul Bajo.

Location: central. Views: sea 175.00m2. 3 rooms. 500000€.

Phone: 922273239

C h a l e t . Ta c o r o n t e .

Location: central. Views: sea 140.00m2. 3 rooms. 282500€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment.Los Cristianos.

Location: central. Views: sea 60.00m2. 2 rooms. 165€.

Phone: 662318990

Apartment. La Laguna.

Location: central 57.00m2.

2 rooms. 129367€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. Barranco Hondo.

Location: central. Views: sea 180.00m2. 3 rooms. 390657€.

Phone: 922273239

Chalet. La Laguna.

Location: outskirts 150.00m2.

3 rooms. 353395€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. Araya. Location: central. Views: sea 250.00m2.

3 rooms. 525885€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. La Laguna.

Location: outskirts 150.00m2.

3 rooms. 290393€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. El Pris. Location: central. Views: sea 147.00m2.

3 rooms. 427139€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. La Laguna.

Location: outskirts 90.00m2.

2 rooms. 189000€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. Araya. Location: central. Views: sea 250.00m2.

3 rooms. 525885€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. La Laguna.

Location: outskirts 110.00m2.

4 rooms. 227182€. Phone: 922273239

U r b a n L a n d . A d e j e.

Location: central. Views: sea 600.00m2. 330000€. Phone: 607903292

C h a l e t . Ta c o r o n t e .

Location: outskirts 197.00m2.

3 rooms. 535000€. Phone: 922273239

Chalet. Radazul Bajo.

Location: central. Views: sea 400.00m2. 4 rooms. 660000€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Barrio De La Salud. Location: outskirts 150.00m2. 4 rooms. 216000€.

Phone: 922273239

Apartment. Arona / Valle San Lorenzo. Location: central. Views: mountain 85.00m2. 2 rooms. 120000€.

Phone: 627180081

Apartment. La Camella.

Location: central 75.00m2.

3 rooms. 137000€. Phone: 607555725

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 90.00m2. 3 rooms. 229587€.

Phone: 922273239

Chalet. Radazul Bajo.

Location: central. Views: sea 220.00m2. 4 rooms. 298700€.

Phone: 922273239

Duplex. Las Palmas de G.C.. Location: central.

V iews: sea 116.00m2. 3 rooms. 198333€. Phone: 686951819 Apartment. La Laguna.

Location: outskirts. Views: sea 55.00m2. 2 rooms. 180303€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Los Majuelos.

Location: outskirts 71.00m2.

3 rooms. 150000€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 135.00m2. 3 rooms. 276465€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Las Palmas de Gran C. Location: central.

V iews: sea 45.00m2. 2 rooms. 180000€. Phone: 637837372 Terraced house. Barrio La Salud Alto. Location: outskir ts 120.00m2. 3 rooms. 132000€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Ofra. Location: outskirts. Views: sea 90.00m2.

3 rooms. 144500€. Phone: 922273239 Rustic Land. La Esperanza.

Location: countr yside 0.00m2. 180303€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 60.00m2. 2 rooms. 144200€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Cruz Del Señor. Location: outskirts 58.00m2. 2 rooms. 168283€.

Phone: 922273239

CLASSIFIEDS / PROPERTY

FOR SALE Flourishing freehold business established 6 years in the up and coming area of Alcalá with high reputation throughout the south west coast and beyond.

Sales of quality second hand furniture, household goods, removals and hire service of cots, car seats, fold up beds and high chairs, Room for expansion in all areas.

FREEHOLD shop area of 70m2.

With height for an upper level, Toyota truck regularly serviced, all stock kept to a high level between 6,000 to 8,000€ at no extra cost. REDUCED 190.000€ O.N.O or LEASEHOLD 70.000€.

Storage premises available with contract near to shop.

450€ per month if required.

Tel: 607 435 267 / 677 509 764 Email: maryelainet@hotmail.com

Urb. Oasis Dakota, Playa Fañabé 3 bed semi detached, toilet, complete bathroom, separate kitchen, totally equipped, furnished, 35m2 terrace, secure access to pool, infant park, good views, beside commerical centres, 800m from Playa Fañabe, community feees 30/month, 185,000 € Tel 629 244958

Chalet. La Matanza.

Location: central. Views: sea

240.00m2. 3 rooms. 440000€.

Phone: 922273239 Terraced house. Bco. grande. Location: outskirts 140.00m2. 4 rooms. 210354€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Radazul Bajo.

Location: central. Views: sea 200.00m2. 4 rooms. 540000€.

Phone: 922273239 Chalet. Barranco Hondo.

Location: central. Views: sea 180.00m2. 4 rooms. 402678€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Valleseco.

Location: central 75.00m2.

2 rooms. 160000€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. El Sobradillo.

Location: outskirts 110.00m2.

3 rooms. 200000€. Phone: 922273239 Premises. El Sobradillo.

Location: outskir ts 148.00m2. 300506€. Phone: 922273239 Chalet. El Portezuelo.

Location: outskirts. Views: mountain 180.00m2. 3 rooms. 300000€. Phone: 922273239

Urb. Arco Iris Playa Second line from the sea in Callao Salvaje. Duplex, totally furnished, 75m2, separate ktichen, totally equipped, toilet, dining room, complete bathroom, 2 bedrooms, SAT-TV, solarium 30m2 with views to Gomera and Teide, garage space, community areas with 2 pools, automatic gates, community fees 54/month, 145,000 euros

Tel 629 244 958

Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 110.00m2. 3 rooms. 147250€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 40.00m2. 1 room. 130000€.

Phone: 922273239 Premises. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 50.00m2. 450000€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. La Higuerita.

Location: outskirts 100.00m2.

3 rooms. 191580€. Phone: 922273239 Chalet. La Matanza.

Location: outskirts. Views: sea 270.00m2. 4 rooms. 330000€.

Phone: 922273239 Chalet. Santa Ursula.

Location: central 165.00m2.

3 rooms. 210354€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Maria Jimenez. Location: outskirts 60.00m2. 2 rooms. 180000€.

Phone: 922273239

47

511.00m2. 180300€. Phone: 922273239 Chalet. Tegueste.

Location: central 110.00m2.

3 rooms. 270455€. Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Maria Jimenez. Location: central 104.00m2. 3 rooms. 222490€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 100.00m2. 3 rooms. 216354€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Santa Cruz De Tenerife. Location: central 100.00m2. 3 rooms. 186313€.

Phone: 922273239 Apartment. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 80.00m2. 3 rooms. 204344€.

Phone: 922273239 Premises. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 165.00m2. 870000€. Phone: 922273239

Urban Land. Acoran.

Location: central. Views: sea

Premises. Sta Cruz de Tenerife. Location: central 167.00m2. 550000€. Phone: 922273239

Valle San Lorenzo Wonderful Villa with four seperate Living areas seaview, the second free plot is with building licence, 965m2, special offer, 550,000 euros for more information 667 387 459 / 922 765 446

3 bed, 2 bathroom duplex apartment for sale in Los Girasoles, El Madroñal Independent kitchen, downstairs toilet, office, living/dining room, 2 terraces approx 20m2 each.

For more information email ventasol@terra.es

48

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

CLASSIFIEDS / USEFUL NUMBERS

Post Office Prices

Useful Numbers

Tenerife

Lanzarote

DIAL 112 Emergency

Spain & Canary Islands 0.20 gr.

Normal 0.32 € / Urg. 2.33 € Large 0.39 € / Urg. 2.41 € 21-50 gr.

Normal 0.43 € / Urg. 2.46 €

EU 0.20 gr.

Normal 0.62 € / Urg. 2.76 € Large 1.07€ / Urg. 3.58 € 21-50 gr.

Normal 1.29 € / Urg. 3.79€

Rest of World 0.20 gr.

Normal 0.78 € / Urg. 3.00 € Large 1.38 € / Urg. 3.75€ 21-50 gr.

Normal 1.66€ / Urg. 4.15€

Opening hours Mon- Frid. 8.30am - 2.30pm Sat. 9.30 - 1pm S.Cruz Mon-Fri 8.30am - 8.30pm Sat 9.30am - 2pm Pto.Cruz Mon-Fri 8.30am - 8.30pm Sat 9.30am -1pm

Playa de las Américas: Pueblo Canario Los Cristianos: Edif. Arenal (Montaña Chica) – near Unelco Puerto de La Cruz: C/ Bethencourt.

Santa Cruz: Plaza España

Arrecife Av. General Franco, 8 Tf: 928 - 800 673 Mon-Fri 8.30am - 8.30pm Sat 9.30am - 1pm Pto. del Carmen Av. Juan Carlos Primero, s/n Tf: 928- 510381 Mon-Fri 8.30am - 2.30pm Sat 9.30am - 1pm

Fuerteventura Las Palmas Av. 1 de Mayo, 62 Tf: 928 - 362 115 Mon-Fri 8.30am - 8.30pm Sat 9.30am - 2pm El Corte Inglés 6ª floor. Mesa Y López, 18 Tf: 928 - 263 000 Mon-Fri 8.30am - 8.30pm Sat 9.30am - 2pm Maspalomas Av. De Tirajana, s/n Tf: 928 - 762 341 Mon-Fri 8.30am - 8pm Sat 9.30am 1pm

Puerto del Rosario Av. 1 de Mayo, 58 Tf: 928- 535 055 Mon-Fri 8.30am - 2.30pm Sat 9.30am - 1pm Gran Tarajal Pl. Candelaria Tf: 928 540 373 Monday – Friday Mon-Fri 8.30am - 2.30pm Sat 9.30am - 1pm Morrojable C/Buenavista, s/n Tf: 928- 540373 Mon-Fri 8.30am - 2.30pm Sat 9.30am - 1pm

Granadilla de Abona El Médano, Playa Tel: 922 773067

La Laguna turismo.laguna@cabtfe.es • C/ de la Carrera, nº 7 38201, La Laguna Tel.: 922 631 194 Fax: 922 608 974 • Torre de La Concepción Plaza de La Concepción, s/n.

• Tenerife North Airport Los Rodeos Airport Teléfono: 922 825 046 Fax: 922 608 974 Puerto de la Cruz Plaza de la Iglesia Tel: 922 386 000 Icod de los Vinos Casa de los Cáceres Tel: 922 81 44 36

Gran Canaria Las Palmas Parque Santa Catalina Tel: 928 264 623 Playa del Inglés Avda. de España, corner with Avda. Estados Unidos Tel: 928 771 550

Lanzarote Puerto Rico C.C Puerto Rico Tel: 928 560 029 Arrecife Parque Municipal, s/n Tel: 928 811 860

La Palma Santiago del Teide Avda. Paseo Marítimo s/n 38436 Santiago del Teide Tel: 922 110 348

Santa Cruz de la Palma C/ O’Daly, 22 Tel: 922 412 106

Playa de las Américas Plaza del City Centre Avda. Rafael Puig, Tel: 922 797 668 info-americas@arona.org

San Sebastián C/ Del Medio, 20 Tel: 922 140 147

La Gomera

Fuerteventura Puerto del Carmen Avda. Marítima de las Playas Tel: 928 813 792 Puerto del Rosario Avda. Primero de Mayo, 33 Tel: 928 851 024

National fiestas On the following days banks and shops will generally be closed, though resort supermarkets may still be open – best advice is to check in advance 1st JANUARY :: New Year´s Day 6th JANUARY :: The Epiphany, Day of the Kings is very important in Spain and is the day when presents are given.

9th & 10th APRIL :: Maundy Thursday and Good Friday ( Easter Monday is not a bank holiday in Spain)

TENERIFE

1st MAY :: May Day Bank Holiday 30th MAY :: Día de Canarias Celebrating Canarian Autonomy 15th AUGUST :: Assumption of the Virgin 12th OCTOBER :: National Spanish Holiday

Tenerife Airport Reina Sofia 922 759 200 Airport Los Rodeos 922 635 998 Emergencies Single emergency line 112 Fire Brigade Throughout the province 080 Sta.Cruz 922 606 080 Adeje 922 732 280 Arona 922 732 280 La Laguna 922 601 175 La Orotava 922 330 080 Santiago Teide 922 863 184 Local Police Sta.Cruz 092 / 922 606 092 Adeje 922 716 508 Arona 922 725 562 La Laguna 922 255 340 La Orotava 922 330 114 Santiago Teide 922 867 033 Pto. Cruz 922 378 448

Tenerife

Costa Adeje C/ Rafael Puig, (Troya) 38670 Adeje Tel: 922 750 633

Consulates

G.Canaria

Tourist Info points Sta. CruzTenerife Plaza de España s/n Tel: 922 239 592 Fax: 922 239 812 Calle del Castillo.

Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm Sat 10.30am – 1.30pm Free city guides every day (except Sunday) From the Plaza de España kiosk at 11am.

More information and group reservations on Tel: 922 531 107

British

1st NOVEMBER :: All Saints Day 6th DECEMBER :: Constitution Day 8th DECEMBER :: Feast of the Inmaculate Conception 25th DECEMBER :: Christmas Day

National Police Sta.Cruz 091 / 922 219300 Adeje 922 797 811 Las Américas 922 797811 La Laguna 922 255340 Pto. Cruz 922 381224 Guardia Civil Sta.Cruz 062 / 922 648 500 Adeje 922 710 003 Arona 922 791 414

Gran Canaria Gando airport 928 579 000 Emergencies Single emergency line 112 Fire Brigade Las Palmas 928 446 444 Maspalomas 928 762 671 Playa del Inglés / San Agustín / San Bartolomé de Tirajana 928762 671 Local Police Whole province 092 Las Palmas 928 446 400 Maspalomas 928 723 429 Mogán 928 569 000 San Bartolomé de Tirajana 928 723 429 National Police Whole Province 091 Las Palmas 928 304 600 Maspalomas 928 764 000 Guardia Civil Whole Province 062 Las Palmas 928 320 400 Maspalomas 928 762 898 Puerto Rico (Mogán) 928 736 817 San Bartolomé de Tirajana 928 750 222 Maritime Rescue and Safety 900 202 202 / 928 467 757

tenerife.enquiries@fco. gov.uk

GRAN CANARIA Edificio Cataluña C/Luís Morote 6, 3rd floor.

P.O. Bow 2020 - 35007 Las Palmas G.Canaria Mon - Fri: 8.30am -1.30pm Tel: 928 262 508 Fax: 928 267 774.

Emergencies out of hours (answering machine gives instructions): 928 26 25 08 www.ukinspain.com LAPAL-Commercial@fco. gov.uk LAPAL-Consular@fco.gov. uk

Cinema Original version Multicines Gran Sur www.ccgransur.com/ cinegransur.html

Tenerife Centro Comercial la Villa LA OROTAVA 922 32 40 86

GRAN CANARIA

Consulates Austria Avda. de Gran Canaria, 26, Playa del Inglés 928 762 500 Belgium C/. Gordillo 13- 3ºfloor Las Palmas Código Postal: 35008 Tel 928 461 718 Denmark C/Albareda 48, Las Palmas Tel: 928 264 764 Finland C/Franchy y Roco 5, Las Palmas Tel: 928 224 358 France C/Nestor de la Torre 12, Las Palmas Tel: 928 292 371 Germany C/. Albareda, 3 - 2º piso, Las Palmas Tel: 928 491 880 Holland C/. León y Castillo 42 - 5º A, Las Palmas Tel: 928 362 251 Ireland C/Leon de Escobedo 5 Las Palmas Tel: 928 297 728

Plaza Wyler No 8-1st floor, 38002. S. Cruz de Tenerife.

Mon - Fri: 8am - 3.30 pm: Tel.: 922 286 863 Fax: 922 289 903 Open to the public: 8.30 am-2pm Monday to Friday.

Emergencies out of hours (answering machine gives instructions): 922 28 68 63 Adeje Mondays + Thursdays everyday service by appointment www.ukinspain.com

Italy C/León y Castillo 281, Las Palmas Tel: 928 241 911 Luxemburg C/. Alejandro Hidalgo (Edif. Las Palmeras) 3 Las Palmas Tel: 928 309 650 Norway C/Luis Morote 6, Las Palmas Tel: 928 495 035 Portugal C/. Alejandro Hidalgo (Edif. Las Palmeras) 3 Tel: 928 309 650 Sweden C/. Luis Morote, 6 - 4º floor Las Palmas Tel: 928 261 751 Switzerland C/Domingo Rivero 2, Las Palmas Tel: 928 293 450 USA C/Los Martinez de Escobar 3 Las Palmas Tel: 928 222 552 Brazil C/Nicolás Estébanez,16 Tel: 928263 239

Gran Canaria C.C Atlántico Avda. del Atlántico VECINDARIO Santa Lucía de Tirajana 928 12 52 90

Temperature

Conversion Chart

Cº / F

Cº / F

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

52 54 55 57 59 61 63 64 66 68 70 72 73 75 77

79 81 82 84 86 88 90 91 93 95 97 99 100 102 104

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

CLASSIFIEDS / PROMOTION

www.islandconnections.eu

Update your current affairs knowhow Read the online edition of Island Connections’ newspaper daily

Constantly updated news Information & tourist guide Interviews & feature Yellow Y ll pages Newspaper archives Island Connections Media Group Calle Francisco Feo Rodríguez 6 38620 San Miguel de Abona

Tel. 922 750 609 Fax 922 795 810 info@ic-news.com

49

50

Motoring

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Kia Soul

SOUL IS SOMETHING WHICH IS VERY HARD TO DESCRIBE, BUT ANYONE WHO’S GOT SOUL KNOWS WHAT IT MEANS.

T

he new Soul is the latest small car from Kia, and it too is hard to describe. But if you’ve got soul, you’ll understand. It has personality, it’s emotional, iconic, self-confident, bold and all about freedom.

It stands out from the crowd with its unique design and offers the flexibility of a medium sized MPV or SUV while only occuping the space of a supermini.

Kia Soul is an urban crossover vehicle, small enough for town and city driving but very different from everyday small cars. It is desirable and rugged, sure to win the

hear ts of the young and young at heart. It has five doors, five seats and front wheel drive, is just over four metres long and is a hatchback. The 60/40 folding rear seats give a large and flat cargo area. It is Kia’s first car for which customers will check out the colours and accessories available before they look at the price.

Soul has a high bonnet and rounded body, bulging wheel arches and a wide track. It’s tough looking, with a determined expression. Its rectangular tailgate tells of its practicality, while the Kia badge doubles as

its handle. Just as fashion houses change their looks ever y season, Kia plan to change the looks, fabrics and colours of the Soul frequently. The two traditional models will be the LX and EX, with a choice of either a 1.6CWT 124hp petrol or 1.6 CRDi 128hp turbo diesel engine with prices star ting at 15,990 euros. Both engines give outstanding torque levels with excellent power for motor way use and superb fuel economy.

There will be lots of options available to personalise and customise your Soul, on top

of the already impressive specification. The objective is to ensure that every Soul can be as individual as the person who buys it.

With its long wheelbase and wide track, the Soul is stable and gives a comfortable ride. It has the same motor-driven electronic power assisted steering as the cee’d, where power assistance is supplied only when needed. The vehicle comes with ESP, ABS and EBD. Inside, it is compact and spor ty with a thickrimmed four-spoke steer-

ing wheel and a three-dial instrument cluster housed in a tightly curved cowling.

The centre stack houses the audio system, air conditioning controls, storage, and in

It is compact, well made, and well priced

some models a large speaker.

Every model has a high quality audio system delivering a clear and wholesome sound which can be linked to digital music players or other portable devices. It consists of a six-speaker RDS radio with CD player, MP3 compatibility and USB and AUX ports.

The Kia Soul definitely has something to say about the motor industry. It is compact, well made, and well priced.

Designed to appeal to your heart, and soul.

For more information, visit Autostil in Guaza, Tenerife (on the main road to Las Galletas), Arona, telephone 922 169464 or go online to www.kiacanarias.com.

Sport

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

Basketball course

SERGIO VENUE DECISION TRIGGERS ROW

LANZAROTE

Ironman 2009 THE DATE FOR THE 18TH EDITION OF THE IRONMAN TRIATHLON IN LANZAROTE IS SATURDAY 23RD MAY. Competitors registered for this international event come from all over the world as the Ironman Canarias Lanzarote Triathlon is an of ficial qualifying competition in Europe for the Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Hawaii.

Events are already taking place up until the big day in the form of an Ironman festival.

On the 23rd, the triathlon begins at 7am with a 3.8 kilometre swim. The focus of attention for the swim and the start and finish lines is the Avenida de las Playas on the seafront in Puerto del Carmen where thousands gather to watch the ironmen and ironwomen. You need to be there early to get a good

supported by the Canarian government and Lanzarote Cabildo, the race organisation and headquarters are located at Club La Santa on the opposite side of the island.

On the day before the main event, Friday 22nd May, youngsters can participate in the Ironkids race which begins at 4.30pm.

It really is a marvel to see these athletes completing a gruelling course and for this reason many people plan their holidays in Lanzarote to coincide with Ironman.

NBA player Sergio Rodríguez’s decision to hold his summer coaching course for teenagers in Gran Canaria has not gone down well in his native Tenerife.

The Portland Trail Blazer star, who reached the play-offs in the NBA for the first time this season, is believed to have made his choice under pressure from the basketball authorities in Gran Canaria in a bid to boost the chances of Las Palmas staging games in the 2014 World Championships if

the event is awarded to Spain. A delegation from governing body FIBA visited Gran Canaria a few weeks ago to check on progress on a new stadium planned for Las Palmas and Sergio Rodríguez’s endorsement in the form of a publicity-attracting course, which will feature Memphis Grizzlies centre Marc Gasol and other top names, is thought to be crucial in keeping up the momentum for the venue nomination. However, critics in Tenerife say the player should have kept to his original plan to hold his course in his native island.

Tee off

AGUAMARINA GOLF On Saturday May 16th the XI Aguamarina Golf Tournament takes place at Golf Del Sur, teeing off at 8am (with a Pitch & Putt tournament scheduled for the day before in Amarilla Golf).

If previous years are anything to go by this will be a very enjoyable and fun series of events, and will end with a lunch and cocktail at the Aguamarina golf complex, where the prize giving will also take place.

Interested golfers can sign up at the golf courses in question ( Golf del Sur: 922 73 89 99, Amarilla Golf: 922 73 03 19)or call the Hotel Aguamarina Golf on 922 73 89 99 for more information.

Photo credit: Club La Santa photos

Sergio Rodríguez (far right) at a previous coaching course in Tenerife

51

An ironwoman approaching the finish line

vantage point. The swim is followed by a 180km bike ride, taking the athletes around the whole island of Lanzarote through mountains and lava fields where more spectators

gather, returning to Puerto del Carmen to begin the 42.2 kilometre run. This course consists of four 10 kilometre loops along the coast and closes at midnight. Fully

To see the full schedule of events, course maps, lists of competitors and more information, visit www.ironmanlanzarote.com where, according to their slogan, anything is possible.

DERBY DOWNER

TV helicopter trouble Canarian TV’s coverage of the recent derby between Tenerife and Las Palmas landed the channel in hot water with the authorities over the use of a helicopter during a pre-game promotion.

The channel hired the helicopter to provide aerial shots and then make an impressive landing in the stadium in Santa Cruz as the chairmen of the two clubs got together with former stars, including Juan Antonio Pizzi (Tenerife) and Vinnie Samways (Las Palmas), on the pitch for a ceremony in the run-up to the fixture. It also intended to use the helicopter on match day

The helicopter was hired by the local television station

but the plans were scuppered by an official notice from the Interior Ministr y that the aircraft was not allowed to fly over cities. “Singleengine helicopters must not be used in the skies above cities with a population over 50,000, except in the event of an emergency to evacuate people in danger” warned the government, which is likely to slap a heavy fine on the TV company for breaking the law.

It appears that the intervention by the government came after air traffic control lodged a formal complaint at the hovering presence of the helicopter in the sky.

52

SPORT

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

Megabowl

TENERIFE

Compiled by Doreen Lemm

10 pin bowling league results

Tenerife 8 Ball RED LEAGUE TEAM 1. Target Bar A 2. The Palms Bar 3. Ten. Hammers A 4. Toscales Old Boys 5. The Cygnets 6. Trap Door B 7. Atlantis Bar 8. North & South A 9. Phoenix Potters 10. The Terrace Bar 11. Barracuda

YELLOW LEAGUE PL W D L P 18 18 18 18 18 19 17 18 18 18 17

13 12 12 11 9 8 7 7 4 0 0

2 4 2 2 6 2 4 3 3 3 1

3 2 4 5 3 9 6 8 11 15 16

41 40 38 35 33 26 25 24 15 3 1

TEAM

PL W D L P

1. The Swan 2. Delicias La Cana 3. The Brum Pub 4. Trap Door A 5. Ten. Hammers B 6. Rat Pack 7. Bar Nauta A 8. Legends 9. Lupain Properties 10. Bar Nauta B 11. Target Bar B

18 18 17 18 19 18 17 18 18 18 17

13 11 10 9 7 7 7 5 5 2 1

5 2 5 1 7 4 3 7 4 3 1

0 5 2 8 5 7 7 6 9 13 15

44 35 35 28 28 25 24 22 19 9 4

Ramón Calderón

Real Madrid elections turn nasty The r un-up to the elections to choose the next chair man of Real Madrid tur ned nasty with a stinging attack by Ramón Calderón on his rival Florentino Pérez.

Calderón, who was forced to step down in January after revelations that votes were rigged in his favour in the last General Meeting, is desperate to return to power and seems prepared to engage in a dirty war to discredit construction magnate Pérez, who is also a former chairman.

In a news interview with the Al Jazeera channel, he accused his rival of trying to get rid of iconic players Casillas and Raúl when he was in charge. Calderón also

Ramón Calderón, who hopes to be re-elected president of Real Madrid in June

attacked ex-coach Bernd Schuster, calling him a second-rate manager who would never have been given a chance by anyone else at a big club. He repeated previous claims that the signing of the “best player in the world”

Diving

Under the sea

Divers at the new centre will be able to enjoy a rich diversity of marine life and be part of an ongoing partnership to work on the preservation of aquatic life in the area. What the fish thought of the underwater enter tainment provided on the day is anybody’s guess!

(an allusion to Christian Ronaldo) is in the bag if he is elected chairman in June.

The unprecedented attacks have been interpreted as growing worry on Calderón’s par t that he will lose the elections on 14 June.

Tasquita Damián (2) Golf Costa Adeje (6) A 4, 7, 10 split for Sue (Megabowl Poppet).

Week 24 Jacquie Gibb (2) Allan Billing (6) Charlie Conner (4) Avril Taylor (4) No Player (0) Duncan Wallace (6) Forfeit Smudge (2) Dave Dixon (6) Jeff Lemm (6) No player (0) Forfeit

Week 25

Click

The inauguration of the new diving centre on the island of La Graciosa will see that island become one of of the main attractions for tourists in search underwater sights and adventures.

Tenerife Royale Estate Agents S.L. Tuesday Singles League

Allan Billing (2) Steve Carter (6) Margaret Conner (8) Chris Rose (0) Barry Smith (6) Smudge (0) Forfeit Duncan Wallace (6) Charlie Conner (2) Dave Dixon (8) No player (0) Forfeit Kevin Capper (0) Avril Taylor (8) Forfeit Jeff Lemm (8) No player (0) Forfeit A fine 207 for Steve and 202 for Dave Dixon. Duncan bowled the 6-7 big split!

Saturday Doubles league Week 20 Buccaneers (8) Happy Days (0) Troubleshooters (8) Los Inflamables (0) You’ll Never Bowl Alone (6) No Team (0) Forfeit Dave Stell had a superb 226 and 208

Week 21 No team (0) Buccaneer Bar (6) Forfeit Troubleshooters (3) Megabowlers (5) No team (0) The Arg’ylls (8) You’ll Never Bowl Alone (8) Happy Days (0) Smart as a Frog (4) Monkey Foreheads (4)

Saturday International League Doubles Canal Ocio Dayu Week 12 Tasquita Damián (0) Tasca de Tranvia (8) Megabowl Poppets (2) Delfin Computer San Isidro (6) Golf Costa Adeje (0) Canal Ocio Dayu (8) A fine 202 for Rafa (Canal Ocio Dayu).

Week 13 Canal Ocio Dayu (8) Megabowl Poppets (0) Tasca de Tranvia (2) Delfin Computer San Isidro (6)

Sunday Doubles League Week 20 U Bin Framed (2) Nothing But Trouble (6) Buccaneers (2) M + S (6) No team (0) Market Taverners (8) Forfeit A magnificent 246 in a make-up game for Michael (Nothing But Trouble). A 209 for Buccaneer, Dave Stell.

Week 21 Racketeers (2) Market Taverners (6) Pinseekers (8) No team (0) Nothing But Trouble (2) Buccaneers (6) U Bin Framed (4) M + S (4) A superb 242 with five consecutive strikes for Eliot (U Bin Framed). An excellent game for Pinseeker, Ron, with a 234 and 204 in a 598 series.

Michael (Nothing But Trouble) on form again with a 224 and Gordon (Market Taverners) bowled a 200.

Monday Fun League Week 5 Players Lounge (4) No team (0) Forfeit The Bears (8) Laurel + Hardy (0) Strike it rich (8) No team (0) Forfeit Dream Team (8) Dumb + Dumber (0) Mega Tramps (4) Strike it rich (4) Hit + Miss (4) Super Whites (4) An excellent middle game for Dream Team’s Grandad, 205 and similarly a fine 201 for Super Whites’ Andy.

Laurel + Hardy duo, Ash and Mike were unlucky to miss getting on the score sheet in their last game, losing by just three pins to the more experienced Bears team of Shippy + Danny. Players Lounge also missed out by just a couple of pins in two of their forfeit games (Darryl + Carl).

Monday Doubles League Week 4 Café Royale (0) Fisherman’s Bar (8) Tenerife Royale Estate Agents S.L. (4) Maurelly (4) Buccaneer Bar (6) F.C.U.K. ‘Em (3) Michael in great form again with a 234.

Great excitement from Shelly (Maurelly) with her first ever 200 plus - a fine 209.

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

I

n a world forever changing its tastes, no sport can quite match boxing for its drama, raw courage, fantastic legends, and ability to sur vive well over two thousand years of manto-man contact, and still remain an attraction for millions of people.

Over the years, an important heavyweight boxing bout would be a million pound spectacle and the surety of a packed stadium.

Going back to the 1920s, the likes of the great Jack Dempsey were pulling in over 100,000 fans in America with takings of more than a million dollars at the gate.

There’s been a spectacular glamour to the heavyweight fight parade as it has rolled through the years, the explosive violence that was the Manassa Mauler, Jack Dempsey, winning the world heavyweight title by a knockout over Jess Willard.

Dempsey punched out of the ring and being pushed back in to stop Luis Firpo in the wildest four minutes ever seen in boxing’s violent history. Joe Louis getting his quick, lethal revenge on the German, Max Schmeling. In ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson’s reign, the controversies, and then along came Lennox Lewis who became the only Englishborn heavyweight in over 100 years to be crowned the undisputed world heavyweight champion. Since then, there has been a lull in the heavyweight division with three or four major title belts being held by the two Klitschko brothers from Ukraine, Wladimir and Vitali.

With the USA out of the picture in the heavyweight scene, it has been left to our own David Haye, the former world cruiserweight champion, to challenge the formidable Klitschkos for their title belts. The jury is still out on whether Britain has found the heavyweight hero it has been missing since the days of Frank Bruno and Lennox Lewis, but we’ll soon find out when the Londoner tackles the younger brother Vladimir who is rated the world’s number one. The champion

By George Reed

Boxing

53

The bigger they are the harder they fall George Foreman, World Heavyweight Champion (1973) “Boxing is the sport to which all other sports aspire. As world champion, I consider myself a citizen of the whole world”. has been based in Germany for many years, which will be to his advantage as the fight will take place at FC Schalke in Gelsenkirchen, where a crowd of some 60,000 are expected to roar on the two heavies on June 29th.

Bob Fitzsimmons aka Ruby Robert

Maher didn’t know what had hit him With no American involved and the heavyweight division in a bit of a doldrum at the present time, it won’t be a financial bonanza, but will still make a few million with gate receipts and payper-view television. But it wasn’t always so, for at the end of the 19th century, two heavyweights who were contenders for the world title held by James J. Corbett, fought a ring battle which lasted less than three minutes, and was watched by just a handful of fans. Texas Rangers and the soldiers of two countries tried to stop that particular heavyweight contest taking place. It was way back in 1896 and Bob Fitzsimmons born in Helston, Cornwall, and the holder of the world middleweight title at the time, was matched with the Irish born

heavyweight Peter Maher, who the reigning champion Jim Corbett had arrogantly named as his successor, which was usually accepted in those days.

Fitzsimmons was something of a freak for, although he had powerful shoulders and an enormous chest, below the waist he had long, spindly legs and never weighed much more than eleven and a half stone. He was partially bald, with ginger hair, and his body was covered with red freckles which is why they named him ‘Ruby Robert’. When Fitzsimmons was asked how he dared to fight the much bigger Irishman, Maher, Bob remarked, “the bigger they are the harder they

fall”. A saying that I believe every boxing journalist has used at some time.

The fight itself was arranged to take place at Langtry, Texas on the afternoon of February 21st 1896, but as soon as the contest was arranged, things began to happen that made the Fitzsimmons-Maher encounter one of the strangest in fistic history. First of all, prize-fighting at the time was against the law in the territories of the West, which included Texas, and as soon as the State officials heard of the impending fight, a company of Texas Rangers was sent to stop it. However, the Federal authorities were not to be outdone either, for armed

forces stationed in New Mexico and Arizona were marched to the scene, with instructions to stop the fight even if they had to resor t to the use of arms.

The crafty promoter, on learning that the two armies were converging on them, arranged a little surprise. He quickly selected a new site for the contest. To evade the law of the United States, he discovered a small strip of land midway between Texas and Mexico along the Rio Grande river, so when the Texas Rangers and the US army arrived, they were stumped. The ring was now pitched on Mexican territor y and the handful of spectators had to walk across a little bridge some 500 yards from El Paso, Texas. The Federals and the Rangers, aimlessly toying with their loaded weapons, had no other option than to assemble on a high hill overlooking the ring and watch the fight. With the referee calling the two fighters to the centre of the ring for instructions, word got through that the Mexican government had dispatched soldiers to drive the Americanos off Mexican territory. So the promoter of the bout shouted to the fighters, “Make it quick, boys! The Mexican army is on its way to stop the fight!”

When Bob Fitzsimmons heard this, he decided that he would have to work fast, so he flew at his big opponent who stood between him and a shot at

the title. Maher didn’t know what had hit him as Fitzsimmons belted him around the ring, and finally laid him out cold on the canvas in just two minutes. Then, quickly, he helped Maher’s seconds revive their beaten fighter and along with the promoter and the handful of spectators, fled towards the little bridge to El Paso and American territory.

They were fleeing across the boundary between the two countries just as the Mexican soldiers came into view, shooting their rifles into the air. The US officers of the law didn’t interfere with them, in fact they permitted them to board a waiting train.

It was the ending of one of the strangest heavyweight fights in history – a ring battle which is now just a line in the musty record books, reading, “Bob Fitzsimmons knocked out Peter Maher in one round on February 21st 1896”. But behind that one line lies hidden a fantastic story of a heavyweight prize fight which lasted less than one round, yet a whole company of Texas Rangers and the soldiers of two countries tried to stop it.

The following year, Bob Fitzsimmons knocked out ‘Gentleman’ Jim Corbett in the four teenth round in Carson City, to become the heavyweight champion of the world. The fight is memorable because it was the first time that motion pictures were ever used to record a sporting event, and it must be the only time in history that an Englishman has beaten an Irishman on St. Patrick’s Day!

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54

EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

SPORT

Soccer Experience Sponsored by : Island Connections Media Group & www.windowsplus.co.uk

Living Room take

top spot,

Cyril’s Creations, who have been dogged by injuries.

Hoppy’s battling side came out of the blocks first playing great football and leading at the break after a couple of nice strikes from Joel.

But the window plus team wouldn’t lie down and with some great football from Greg Newall and the midfield battler Brian they bounced back taking the game 8-5.

MASTERS LEAGUE SUMMARY Harleys (team photo 2008) are improving

OPEN LEAGUE SUMMARY In their first season in the Soccer Experience open league big Christian Lee’s The Living Room team have hit the summit of the Open League, though not without having to work very hard.

The first game of the week saw Living Room take on the windowplus.co.uk misfits

side, in a fascinating encounter, end to end football that could have gone either way, but for the saves of Living Room’s new found Wayne Van der Sar. With a keeper on form and big Lee driving them forward and the odd dodgy referee decision, The Living Room stole the game at the death winning 5-4.

Next up saw Exiles Bar Silencio take on Morfitt Properties. In a very low scoring game for 7’s football Lee Morfitt’s side won the game 3-2. Big Rhodri and Tal’s Eclipse Café side, which has struggled of late and Pablo’s unpredictable España side faced each other next, with España taking a controlling

lead in the first half.

The second half saw Rhodri rally the troops and Eclipse Café dug deep and deservedly drew level ending the match 6-6.

The game of the second week was the eagerly awaited clash between The Living Room and the reigning champs Taylor’s Lounge.

This game turned out to be a bit of a grudge match; with some ‘meaty’ challenges.

At times though both sides played some great football with nothing to choose between them, with goals, yellow cards and penalties this game had it all, Living Room finally taking it 6-5: windowplus.co.uk took on Hoppy´s

The first game of the week saw undefeated Tenerife Warriors take on Harley’s American Restaurant.

Warriors have beaten all in front of them so far, but Harley’s have made massive improvements too and with the Balkan Battler Go-Go, Mr solid defender Andy Senior and the team’s ver y own

Puskas from Hungar y, to name a few, their fighting spirit shone through again and they won the game in the dying minutes. Next up saw Hoops bar take on Britannia FC. This game turned out to be a cracker and was end to end with great finishing from both sides, a draw, 7-7 at the end. Hole in the Wall took on Cold Flow in a tough and low scoring game with Cold Flow just winning 2-1. The last game of the week saw Morfitt Masters get back to winning ways, pushing to retain their title by beating new boys Dreamers. In the next week of play Morfitt Masters took on Hoops bar and with Hoops missing key players the Masters took home the laurels. The surprise game of the week saw a strong Taylor’s Masters take on Dreamer’s bar, but despite losing 5-1 Dreamer’s must take confidence as they dominated the second half. The last game of the week saw Tenerife Warriors take on Cold Flow with Warrior’s getting back to winning ways against a solid Cold Flow side winning 6-5.

NEW DIVISION COMING SOON Good news for all players not already involved in Soccer Experience 7s leagues: due to the growing demand and success of the Open and Masters Leagues – a new league is being planned.

The new division is for players who have not played for a while and want an easier league to get started with or maybe a group of friends in a bar that play 5-a-side and are not sure if they could jump up to a 7 a-side league. Bottom line is Soccer Experience objective is to make football available to all levels of adult footballs from the youngsters who are getting ready to leave school footballer or the slower pace gents who have not played since being a hat-trick hero in the school playground!

Anyone interested in playing in any of the leagues should contact Soccer Experience, 654200470 or 619962467 or email: rob@soccerexperience.com or for more info online: www.soccerexperience.com

Team Profile In the coming weeks we will feature one of the teams in the Soccer Experience leagues per edition.

This week we start with a new lively and entertaining team that plays in the Masters League!

Soccer Experience teams LOS CRISTIANOS

The Hoops Bar

SPRING 2009 OPEN LEAGUE TABLE: Teams 1. The Living Room 2. Exiles bar, Silencio 3. windowsplus.co.uk 4. Morfitt properties 5. Team España 6. Taylor’s Lounge 7. Eclipse Cafe, Callao 8. Cyril’s Creations

Played 4 7 7 5 7 6 6 6

W 4 4 3 3 3 3 2 0

D 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0

L 0 3 3 1 3 3 3 6

GF GA 27 38 42 29 37 42 39 28

Points

16 41 40 28 38 29 36 49

12 12 10 10 10 9 7 0

SPRING 2009 MASTERS LEAGUE TABLE: Teams

Played

1. TENERIFE WARRIORS 7 2. TAYLOR’S MASTERS 6 3. HARLEYS AMERICAN REST 7 4. MORFITT MASTERS 6 5. COLD FLOW 6 6. BRITANNIA F.C. 6 7. HOLE IN THE WALL 3 8. THE HOOPS BAR 7 9. PLANET FOOTBALL 5 10. DREAMERS BAR 7

W 6 5 5 4 2 2 2 1 1 0

D 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0

L 1 1 2 2 3 3 1 4 4 7

GF GA 51 45 36 39 27 33 22 33 26 23

28 18 25 25 32 45 9 54 49 51

Points 18 15 15 12 7 7 6 5 3 0

This team already has one of the best keepers in the league in Adam and with Hot shot Davie scoring some real ‘crackers’ slowly but surely week after week the team is getting more confident and fitter and will pick up a lot more points in the second half of the season. Their defence

has a good fighting spirit with Captain “Kade”, Ryan, Craig and Scouser Barry add spark to the midfield.

The squad is also helped by Tony, young Josh and the resident watch salesman “pele” is a tricky handful upfront!

Big Stevie is the back up keeper and his Hoops bar

are the main sponsors of the team, and even though Stevie and the boys are having a blast on a weekly basis in the league they have a main objective and dream to play against some ex Celtic Legends in this years Soccer Experience International masters tournament in November!

ISLAND CONNECTIONS :: EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009

CD Tenerife

Kome’s style continues to confound the opposition and delight the fans

NEWS

Second Division 04/05/2009 CLUB

PLD W

1. Xerez 2. Tenerife 3. Zaragoza 4. Hercules 5. Rayo Vallecano 6. Salamanca 7. Real Sociedad 8. Levante 9. Castellon 10. Gimnastic 11. Elche 12. Huesca 13. Albacete 14. Murcia 15. Girona 16. Las Palmas 17. Celta Vigo 18. Cordoba 19. Alaves 20. Alicante 21. Eibar 22. Sevilla Atletico

Destiny calling

By Spike Jones / Photos: Gary Hill

25/04/2009 CD Tenerife 2:0 UD Las Palmas You could hear a pin drop in the deser ted streets of towns and cities across the Canarian archipelago as football fans in their teeming thousands huddled around TVs and radios at home, in taxis, bars, restaurants and hotel lobbies glued to the most anticipated event of the year so far: The Canarian Derby.

24,000, including 1,000 from Gran Canaria, had the best view of all: in the Heliodoro itself. Most games involving Tenerife seem to be ‘crunch matches’ these days and this one was no exception. Las Palmas have always believed themselves to be the islands’ pre-eminent team, but this season they have suffered the indignity of seeing their deadly rivals gunning for promotion, while they themselves have hovered close to relegation. CD Tenerife’s away win at Las Palmas in November was a slap in the face for The Pios. That result derailed a mini-surge of hope for them and restored CD’s fortunes.

A further twist was that Las Palmas top gun, Marcos Márquez, who was unavailable for the first encounter, was back for this one. Was the inclusion of this goal ace going to give Las Palmas enough of an edge to upset the form book?

The game itself was not for the purists. Like with most derby games there was

plenty of incident but not much subtlety. Attempts at creating flowing football by either side were strangled at birth by close marking, and good passing movements were restricted as players were rushed into making

the UD box, but there was always a threat at the other end. Márquez, trying to kid a penalty on 38th minute, earned himself a caution for simulation instead. Luis García pulled off a stunning save on 44 minutes, and fans

nice triangle on 64 minutes, which lifted the crowd, and, on 66 minutes, Nino shot just high after a Kome cross.

Las Palmas retaliated, trying to regain the initiative, and although they continued to get into dangerous posi-

35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35

20 19 17 16 15 15 13 15 12 11 11 11 11 12 9 9 9 10 9 7 7 2

Nino. As Tenerife’s forwards charged towards UD’s goal on a break, Angel (on for Juanlu Hens) pinged a rapid ball out to Nino on the far right of the box. The league’s top striker then jinked the ball right, which lost his marker and set up a lateral shot on his favourite right foot. The shot, venomous and deadly accurate, evaded keeper Santamaria and nestled inside the right post. 2-0, and with CD now looking much more composed there was no way back for Las Palmas.

02/05/2009 Real Zaragoza 1 CD Tenerife 1

mistakes. Las Palmas had the better of the first half an hour. They certainly won more free kicks and corners, and a sharper Márquez would surely have buried his 19th minute chance. On 20 minutes Nino missed a difficult header chance from a Bertrán cross, but this Tenerife attack was a rarity as Las Palmas looked more like the home side while Tenerife acted the role of the nervous visitors.

Blanquiazul boss, Luis Oltra, was apoplectic with frustration as he implored his troops to keep the ball on the grass and play proper football. In the period leading up to half time, Tenerife did begin to find their stride and made some moves that penetrated

were delighted to get to half time on level terms.

CD’s players responded well to Oltra’s half-time talk.

With 23,000 screaming fans urging the team on, motivation wasn’t the problem. The side needed to establish some authority over UD on their own patch, and this they did.

On 55 minutes Juanlu Hens’s right cross found Richi in UD’s box. The flight of the ball was deceptive, as Kome seemed to dummy it. Anyway, Richi coolly side-footed it into UD’s net for 1-0. Kome then started to create some of his moves down the left, one from end to end, and it looked more like business as usual for Tenerife. Kome, Richi and Nino worked a

24,000 fans in the Heliodoro, the best view of all tions and create reasonable chances, they began to look toothless up front. On 78 minutes came the moment that truly demonstrated the difference between these sides, a goal of pure perfection by

55

Among the 35,000 attending this match were a vociferous 700 CD Tenerife fans who had made the trip to Aragón. In another crunch encounter Tenerife needed something from this game to keep up the promotion momentum.

With just three points separating the two, Real Zaragoza, of course, needed exactly the same thing.

Real started off in the best way possible, with a goal inside two minutes. Goalie García could only parr y a fierce close range shot directly to Herrera, who thumped it home. Both sides played attractive football, but it was Real who dominated the first 20 minutes or so.

Real are a default La Liga side on a sort of sabbatical in La Segunda, and for a while CD Tenerife were given a preview of the sort of quality they will have to face if they win promotion. As Real stroked it about like an embryo Barcelona, it looked like Tenerife could be on the end of a bloody good thumping. But they withstood the early storm well and the loss of the early goal seemed to

D

L

F

9 9 11 13 14 11 15 8 14 14 13 12 11 7 15 14 14 10 8 10 8 10

6 7 7 6 6 9 7 12 9 10 11 12 13 16 11 12 12 15 18 18 20 23

63 64 61 65 42 53 40 50 43 51 46 40 39 39 35 41 39 34 35 31 25 23

A 36 41 38 37 33 36 29 51 38 43 40 39 45 49 42 42 46 42 56 55 50 71

PTS 69 66 62 61 59 56 54 53 50 47 46 45 44 43 42 41 41 40 35 31 29 16

spur them on. By halfway through the first half the Zaragoza tide had ebbed a bit, and Tenerife started to make some serious headway with Kome penetrating on the right, and Nino making a real nuisance of himself with snap shots and headers. Tenerife also began to win more possession as Real lost some of their early composure. A blinding shot by Arizmendi on 38 minutes, saved beautifully

by García, was a reminder of the dangers still facing the blanquiazules, but in this period it was Tenerife who were on top.

On 43 minutes they got the well-deserved end result, another goal by the legend that is Nino. Kome fluffed a difficult volley from a corner, but the ball went to Juanlu Hens whose centre found Nino. His right foot shot from the right of the box was fierce, faultless and unstoppable.

Hot striker Ewerthon, only two behind Nino in the division’s goal race, came on for Real on 55 minutes and looked threatening even when off the ball. While Tenerife captain Ricardo was skying his chances, Ewerthon only needed five minutes to force a save from García. On 65 minutes Tenerife got a good measure of justice for November’s penalty when an Ewerthon effort was adjudged offside.

Real were unlucky here – the goal looked good on the replay. But it spurred them on, and CD again came under the cosh. Irritatingly, all the loose bounces, ricochets and rebounds seemed to go Real’s way while any Tenerife pass that wasn’t centimetre perfect was gobbled up by the opposition. But, to their great credit, Tenerife survived this final storm and took home a deserved point. It keeps a bit of distance between the sides in the table, and Tenerife’s destiny is still entirely in its own hands.

8 436012 301118

56

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EDITION 590 :: 08/05/2009 - 22/05/2009 :: ISLAND CONNECTIONS

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