Reporter Newspaper 120

Reporter The Costa Calida

ESTABLISHED 2004

ISSUE NO. 120

LOCAL NEWS FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

5TH JUNE 2009

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The Reporter Evolves!

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

THE REPORTER EVOLVES! - Continued from front page One of our biggest front page stories is our announcement that The Reporter is going internet-based.

As a business, we have a responsibility to satisfy the needs of both our readers and our advertisers. Considering that activity on our website has increased hugely over the past few months, changing the emphasis of our newspaper is a natural progression and in line with the technological revolution that is underway globally.

The massive increase in internet connections in the home is no doubt one of the reasons for the increased traffic to our website and we believe this trend is going to continue. Online shopping, booking flights, banking and accessing news and current affairs, articles and info are all quite normal activities these days.

Of course, we realise that people without the internet, unless they use an internet café (as many do) will not be able to access The Reporter.

And for this reason, making the change has been a very difficult decision to make.

However, the sheer volume of home internet users far outweighs those without it and, for this reason we have decided to embrace the internet revolution.

Like many free newspapers, Credit Crunch or not, the fact that we would never be able to print enough copies to ensure everyone gets a copy is frustrating. As times become more difficult, you will see newspapers getting thinner and, with the struggle to sell advertising at normal prices, some publications are already cutting back on local news and cramming in cheaper advertising to make ends meet. By being internet-based our capacity for bringing you interesting

and varied content will be virtually unlimited!

As a newspaper that has focused on keeping itself fresh and varied month in and month out since its conception, we would not be doing any justice for our readers and advertisers if we failed to listen to what they are telling us.

By going on-line we remove completely the boundaries of our newspaper, both information and geographywise.

In addition, given the need for us to have environmental considerations foremost in our business activities, internet-based publishing is far more env i ronmenta lly-f r iend ly than printed paper which is wasteful and consumes scarce resources.

Just imagine, no more waiting for print day only to miss out on your copy, no more getting news that is up to two weeks old, and now The Reporter can give you even more advertisers’ information.

When you see an advert you are interested in, simply link to their website or information page and see more details of their services or products. You can even contact them online without time restrictions.

Over the coming weeks and months we will be developing w w w.repor t er newspaper. com with the aim of offering a super interesting, informative and interactive site for this area of Spain.

Log on today, take a look and add us to your favourites!

For everything from finding your local duty chemist to placing a classified advert, finding out what’s on telly to finding something to do at the weekend, and much much more – remember: www.reporternewspaper.com From an advertiser’s

We would like to take this opportunity to wish The Reporter Online good luck for the future. Changing to a website-based newspaper, in our opinion, is indeed the way forward especially for a company with its finger on the button.

Compared with a few years ago when we received only a few web-based enquiries, the majority of our new business now comes from the internet and the Reporter website is no exception. Whenever we have embarked upon a project, the experience of the Reporter team combined with the loyal Reporter readers and clickers has always proven a great success for us.

perspective, The Reporter Online now represents greater value for money. We are no longer a newspaper that has a website, we are a fast-moving, up-to-date online news, information and entertainment site.

Businesses can promote their products and services to local people and even reach out to those who only live here part of the year but like to keep up with everything going on in Spain. Even for those people thinking about a move, we know that internet research is the most popular method utilised by expats of the future.

If you are looking to promote your business why not give us a call and take advantage of our special launch offers.

Web advertising really does work out very good value for money when compared with print advertising and it could just be the help your business needs to survive this tough time.

Having received so much positive feedback and comments about the change to our newspaper, we are completely sure we are fulfilling our commitment in providing a quality service to the people who have supported us so loyally during the last few years.

We would like to say a huge thank you to all our regular readers, contributors and advertisers alike for their continued support - it is these people who have helped to shape the newspaper in the past and, who steer us as we move forward into a brighter, better, somewhat more technological future.

Any comments or suggestions as to what you would like to see on our site would be welcomed Call: 902 907 324 or email: info@reporternewspaper.com www.reporternewspaper.com

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Reporter The Costa Calida

Postal address.

The Reporter Newspaper, Apdo. de Correos 395, La Manga Club, 30389 Cartagena, (Murcia)

Advertising Sales & Enquiries.

Telephone. 618 549 283 Fax. 968 163 626 Email. info@reporternewspaper.com Web. www.reporternewspaper.com ® THE REPORTER NEWS PUBLICATION Printed in Spain. Published fortnightly.

Published by. Clare Smith (X-4440081-T) Deposito Legal. V-4291-2004

All rights reserved. No paragraph or other parts of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means including photocopying and recording, without the written permission of the Publishers. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the publication, the Publishers cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

The Publisher accepts no liability in respect of any loss or damage occasioned directly or indirectly as a result of publication of any advertisement, advertorial or article or any loss or damage occasioned directly or indirectly by any total or partial failure (however caused) of publication of any advertisement, advertorial or article scheduled to appear.

The Publishers take no responsibility whatsoever on behalf of advertisers and individuals with regard to any claims made by, opinions expressed or information given in advertisements, advertorials, editorials or articles contained within this publication.

The Publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors as a result of poor quality artwork, logos or images supplied by the advertiser.

Advertisements designed by the Publishers remain the property of the Publisher. No adverts may be copied or reproduced for other publications without the Publisher’s permission. Failure to do so may result in legal proceedings.

Just imagine, no more fighting the tourists for our copy of this quality paper during summer and no more battling the high winds and rain we are becoming accustomed to, in the winter. We shop online, we book flights on-line, why wouldn’t we read the paper on-line?

Citrus Red will continue to support The Reporter for as long as they want us and, anyone experiencing a disappointing return for their advertising efforts should consider freshening up their advertising.

In our experience, it is not about getting the cheapest possible price for our tired, stale adverts; there is no skill in that whatsoever.

Continuing with advertising that doesn’t work simply because you are paying less for it is no solution. Most of the new enquiries we receive are from people wanting to use the internet, people of all ages and in all areas.

Don’t limit all of your efforts to printed advertising, not in this day and age. Give The Reporter a call, it may make all the difference and help your company survive the crisis.

David Rook Direct Marketing for Citrus Red SL

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Cartagena Wins Another Blue Flag

With the granting of the blue flag award to Playa Cavanna in La Manga we now have seven such awards in the Cartagena area, a number that is only matched by Fuengirola, throughout the Mediterranean, and which are in addition to the ten Q awards which the municipality already has.

The Association of Environmental Education and the Consumer (ADEAC) has awarded a new blue flag to Cartagena, specifically Playa Cavanna, this being based on criteria such as the quality of the water, accessibility, and the respect given to coastal and environmental legislation, amongst other factors.

Including this latest addition, the municipality of Cartagena boasts seven beaches with the prestigious blue flag, and these are Playa de Levante in Cabo de Palos, Mar de Cristal, Islas Menores, Playa Honda and Cala del Pino in the Mar Menor; Cala Cortina in Cartagena and Playa Cavanna in La Manga.

In the whole of the Murcian coast fifteen blue flags will fly this summer, 7 in the Cartagena area, another 6 on the beaches of Águilas and 2 in Mazarrón.

The general director of the Municipal Institute of Coastal Services, Gabriel Ruiz, has indicated that to obtain a distinction such as the blue flag is of great value but not the only criteria since there are other systems of qualification whose criteria are much more stringent such as the Q of Quality on beaches, for which Cartagena is the first municipality in the whole of Spain to qualify for ten such awards.

What A Load Of Rubbish!

THE cleaning of beaches that was carried out last weekend in La Manga resulted in a big success both in the number of people participating as well as the amount of rubbish collected from the seabed in the area of Veneziola and the Isla del Cierva, as reported by the Councillor of the Environment of the Town Hall of San Javier, José Luis Espinosa.

This action, organized by the BalkySub Dive

School of La Manga in collaboration with the Environmental Department of the Town Council of San Javier, included 74 volunteers who managed to remove from the sea 89 gigantic bags of rubbish and more than 1,500 kilograms of residues.

The Environment Department initiated a program of activities that has continued throughout this last week.

On Tuesday,

the president of ANSE in Cartagena, Pedro Garcia inaugurated an elaborate exhibition on the environmental value of the sand dunes of La Manga, that will be on show until June 12 in the Parque Almansa community centre in San Javier.

Activities have also been carried out in schools throughout the past days.

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

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On Their Bikes in San Javier THE Town Hall of San Javier has put in place a testing period for the bicycle loan system. This will operate via five points or stations from which users can collect and leave the bikes, and these are operated via a system of telephone messaging. Those interested in utilizing the service should be registered previously by presenting a photocopy of their identity card, in the Tourist Offices of Santiago de la Ribera or La Manga, and in the Tourist Information Centre of the Town Hall of San Javier, where they will be given a password, and an explanatory pamphlet on how the service operates.

Once the user has obtained the personal code, he or she will be able to make use of the bicycles parked in the stations of Santiago de la Ribera, in the Barnuevo explanade, and in the Faculty

of Sciences of the Sport, in San Javier in Parque Almansa, next to the Conservatory, in Roda, next to community centre, and in La Manga in Playa Mistral.

Via a mobile phone message the padlocks of the bicycles will be opened or closed to take or leave the bike. In principle a maximum duration of 4 hours has been decided for the length of time that each loan can be utilised and this will be operating from Monday to Sunday from 9:00 to the 21:00h in the summer time, and until 18:00h in winter.

Any person can sign up for this service, including minors, but they must have obtained patental authorisation. So far since the inception of the scheme 65 people have already been registered and have begun to use the service “San Javier En Bici”.

According to the Councilor of

Tourism, Jesus Montesinos “for the time being it is functioning well, although this period of testing allows us to identify possible problems and allows us to optimise the service”.

Councilor Montesinos added that the tourism department of the town council is already working to increase the number of bike parks and bicycles in the town.

Ultimately the service will be able to provide more points from where the bikes can be accessed and this will allow the service to be used by more people.

Subsidy For Murcian Arts THE Murcian Executive has approved a subsidy of 100,000 euros to be awarded to the Foundation Agency for the Promotion of Culture & Arts of the Region of Murcia to assist with the expenses of artists in relation to promoting activities associated with the arts in the region, both at national and international level.

One of the fundamental objectives of this Agency is to promote the framework of external activities that will be carried out in order to obtain outlets and organise activities to promote Murcian artists so that their talents can be supported and promoted in institutions and foundations outside as well as within the Region and help to publicise their talents.

Don't forget Tuesday 9th June is a bank holiday - Day of the Region of Murcia

www.carsupermarket.es

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Iberbrit Legal are located on La Manga Strip at: Gran Via s/n – Km 1.5, Edificio Monterrey – Iberbrit Legal office, – 30380 La Manga – Cartagena. Tel. +34 968 337 392 Fax. +34 968 563 224 Email: info@iberbrit.com Website:

PO BOX No. 163 www.iberbrit.com

by Daniel Codes Llamas, Chartered Accountant and senior partner of IBERBRIT LEGAL.

If there is a particular topic you would like to see addressed, send your query to: info@reporternewspaper.com, with LEGAL as the subject.

Should You Make a Spanish Will?

If you are a foreigner who owns property in Spain it is highly recommended that you make a Spanish will. To do so is very simple and we suggest that you contact your fiscal representative in Spain in order to arrange an appointment with a Notary.

In the event of death most married British couples prefer to leave the whole of their estate to their spouse alone, as permitted

by British law. However, without a Spanish will in place this would not be possible should the deceased have children or parents still alive.

According to Spanish law a person is only entirely free to do as they wish with their estate (patrimonio) if they have no children or parent still alive. This law is always applicable unless it is overridden by the existence of a will in the

deceased’s own country.

If you want to ensure that your estate is distributed as you would wish, it is imperative to have a will in place in your own country.

Having said that, it is a good idea to have a Spanish will in place to simplify dealings with your Spanish estate. This will save time and money and avoid the costs of official translation and legalization of your British will.

We acted in the administration of the estate of a British client who died leaving a British will but no Spanish will. He owned a house in Spain equally with his wife. The expenses (translations, professional fees in both the UK and Spain, taxes) totaled around €12,000 and it took about 2 years to complete the process. It could have been even longer but fortunately

there were no conflicts of interest between his wife and children who could have contested his British will under the laws of Spain. Had their been a Spanish will in place, the cost of the whole process would not have exceeded €2,500 and the administration of the estate could have been done in not more than 20 working days after the date of death.

When deciding whether to make a Spanish will you need to take into account that it is not compulsory but highly recommended. There is no problem in the Spanish authorities recognising the validity of a British will. However, the existence of a Spanish will will greatly reduce the time and cost involved in the administration of the estate.

Murcians Get More Pioneering info system for the sea Help To Buy Cars THE Councillor of Agriculture and Water has presented the System of Oceanographic Information of Murcia (SIOM), which is the result of an elaborate two-year study involving the coasts of the region.

This service enables the prediction of the maritime climate, which allows the creation of warning systems, and will improve the management of fishing and aquaculture, and promote a wider knowledge of the waters of the Mar Menor.

The Councillor of Agriculture and Water, Antonio Cerdá, last week presented the System of Oceanographic Information of Murcia (SIOM), that qualifies as "a useful tool that will offer information brought up-to-date via the Internet to improve the management of the Murcian coast in diverse environments".

Cerdá explained that this system is going to enable realtime prediction of the maritime climate, to create caution and warning systems, to improve the management of fishing and aquaculture, and to provide a greater knowledge of the state of the water of the Mar Menor.

The Councillor of Agriculture emphasized that this service "will offer precise information of the physical behaviour of the water and the direction and intensity of marine currents at different depths".

He underlined that this tool "will facilitate the work of the sports, fishing and maritime transportation sectors", since it will enable them to access in real-time the climatic state of the sea, such as swell, current, and the temperature and salinity of the water.

In addition, from the forecast of the currents and swell, they will be able to create services whereby they can warn the public and others so that decisons can be made to deal with possible events such as contamination, jellyfish

invasions and the influx of other species, and improve the system of underwater management of invading species, such as the jellyfish”.

This system will also improve management of underwater activities and will determine the most appropriate areas for bathing and other water based activities.

The other reason for this new system is to assist in the management of the fishing grounds, so that "the interesting facts concerning the size of the catches of fish can be ascertained”.

In addition, information regarding the number and intensity of the cultivation of different species will help to decide on what protection various areas and species require to ensure a healthy and productive marine population”, according to the Councillor.

He explained also that "the Regional Administration now has a very valid tool with which to manage the Mar Menor”, since, as he has said, "this work has permitted an improvement in the knowledge of the hydrodynamics that regulate it".

Cerdá underlined that "thanks to this application we will have access to predictions of the atmospheric and maritime climate in a similar way to that of the weather forecast". He added also that this work "is the fruit of an elaborate two year study along the coast of the region and emanates from the different European regulations".

The Region of Murcia is one of the few Spanish autonomous regions that possess an oceanographic database that can be consulted via the Internet and that is updated automatically. This information provides information of interest to different agencies, private enterprises and institutions, concerning management, investigation and assessment of the marine environment.

THE Department of Industry is joining with the Plan Renove of Industrial Vehicles of the Region and the Regional Executive in expanding the subsidies available for the purchase of vehicles with the support of the vehicle sector.

The autonomous region of Murcia was a national pioneer in supporting the acquisition of industrial vehicles, and the expansion of the scheme shouold benefit both the public and the vehicle trading sector.

Murcians will be able to take advantage of a subsidy of 2,000 euros towards the purchase of a vehicle subject to the necessary stipulations. Thus the Government Counsel agreed last week to go ahead having received the agreement to assist from the Central Government to the Plan Renove of Industrial Vehicles of the Region of Murcia. In this way, the Regional Government hs increased the concession of assistance for family cars, and already underway is the subsidy for the renewal of commercial fleets for small and medium sized businesses and self employed

people, to which the assistance to purchase family cars will be additional and welcome.

This measure has come to fruition, once more, with the co-operation of the car sector of the Region of Murcia and co- operation from sections of the Industrial Plan and the measures set in motion by the Murcian Executive for the economic stimulation of productive sectors within the Murcian economy.

The Councilor of Universities, Business and Investigation, Salvador Marín, explained that "the Regional Government is carrying out a new economic push to stimulate regional production and to re-energise society overall". Likewise, he stated that "we have undertaken an important exercise to responsibly maintain the unity of a sector that had been threatened by the attitude of the Central Government".

As a result, any citizen, small business or self-employed person in Murcia who acquires a vehicle, will receive an aid of 500 euros from the Regional

Government, 1,000 euros from the manufacturer and 500 euros from the Central Administration. This subsidy is applied by the dealers on the sale price. To these benefits would be added any additional discounts that each manufacturer agrees voluntarily.

The forecast is that the finacial assistance will result in the acquisition of 1,000 vehicles.

The Regional Government also has in motion additional subsidies, with a budget of 300,000 euros, to acquire hybrid cars, within the plan to respect and protect the environment.

Salvador Marín underlined that "the Region of Murcia was a pioneer in Spain in providing assistance in the acquisition of industrial vehicles arrived at by agreement with the regional automobile sector" and recalled that "the limit of the vehicles has been set by the central Government at 200,000 vehicles". "We will have to see how this figure corresponds with the needs of the autonomous Region of Murcia", he concluded.

Bono Libro Gets A Boost THE Government Counsel has approved a covenant between the Department of Education, Training and Employment and the Ministry of Education as a result of which a total amount of 16,736,649 euros will be forthcoming for the financing of books and school equipment during the 2009-2010 academic year.

Of this figure, the Community of Murcia is contributing 12.5 million euro, to which will be added 4.236.649 euros by the Ministry of Education.

This covenant is intended to support the financing of the ‘BonoLibro’, that will benefit a total of 118,220 students in the next school year, of which 67,740 are

of Primary Education age and 50,480 of Secondary. In definitive terms, it will benefit the students in the first, second, third and fourth years of primary, and the first, second and third years of secondary schooling in public and subsidised schools in the Region.

The agreement will enable 34,220 more students than last year to benefit and also newly put in place this year, students in the fourth grade of primary and third year of secondary will also be able to take advantage of the scheme.

This has been made been possible thanks to the increase of almost 50 percent in the funds that are being provided for the Community to support this programe, that last

year included an endowment via the regional Administration of 8,525,000 euros.

In actual fact, the aid offered through the ‘Bono-Libro’ will be 100 euros for each student in Primary Education and 150 euros for those in Obligatory Secondary Education (ESO), with which they will be able to acquire textbooks and school equipment in the network of bookstores and other authorized establishments, to help them with their academic studies.

Parents will be able to request this aid directly in the schools by completing the forms that will be provided by the Department of Education, Training and Employment.

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Amazing Credit Crunch Premiums on Your Health Insurance!

We are in the middle of an economic downturn and we all have to watch the pennies.

To get through the crisis, we all try to save money where we can. Be prudent, when you decide which expenses you can save on, and which ones are essential to secure your chances to “ride out the storm”. To really save money, it is advisable to look further than your nose-tip and secure that the expenses you weed-out do not represent long-term savings.

Make sure it will not be like soiling your underwear – it is a relief and feels nice and warm to begin with, but very soon turns uncomfortable and cold! Pardon the comparison!

If you are without any major health problems right now, it is very tempting to save on health

Health And Beauty On The Agenda THE general manager of Tourist Promotion, Ángel Campos, last week presented the new Bonosalud 2009/2010, which is a unique pass, activated by the Department of Culture and Tourism in conjunction with Viajes Cajamurcia, with which until May 1st 2010, clients can access the benefits of the 11 health and beauty centres integrated within the Consortium of Health Tourism of the Region of Murcia.

Campos underlined that "this initiative responds to the need to offer all Murcianos a specific product that permits them to enjoy, in an economical way, the best health and beauty centres in the Region". In addition, as he declared, "the bonosalud is a superb way to promote the inclusiveness of this sector in the regional market".

The voucher costs 49€, is valid for any day of the week and will permit the client to enjoy specific services that are offered by the participating centres. Among the possible services are facial massages, aromatherapy treatments, marine treatments and free access to thermal pools.

Campos thanked the efforts and input of this business sector "by endowing the Murcian tourist establishments with the highest levels of quality" and, said that the diversity of activities available to tourists in the Region of Murcia is its main distinguishing element.

The Consortium of Health Tourism of the Region of Murcia was established in 1997 to maintain, develop and improve therapeutic use of the thermal and marine waters in the region. At present, the eleven centres that are adhering to this are the Balneario of Archena, the Balneario of Leana, Sensol Resort Balneario/ Spa, Vital Aguas Salinas health centre, the Hotel Lodomar, Thalasia H. & Talaos Center, Hotel Entremares, Spa of the Hotel Mangalán, La Manga Club Spa, Spa of the Intercontinental Mar Menor and the Spa of the Hotel Don Juan.

Remember to visit www.reporternewspaper.com

Advertorial

insurance. As none of us have a guarantee that we will stay without any kinds of health problems in the future, that item is probably the worst one you could chose to eliminate, when looking into your finances.

A couple of examples! Terrible if you should contract cancer – but if you at the same time as dealing with the stress and fear of the disease have to deal with financial problems because treatment represents an outgoing of more than €10,000 – would you still feel that you had made a wise choice in skipping health insurance? To suffer a stroke is not that uncommon. Would you still feel good that you saved on health insurance, when you receive an invoice of €1-2,000 from the hospital when you come home?

Going back to Britain? Not an option! If you spend more than 6 months of the year in Spain (do not have to be consecutive), you are resident, and Britain will charge you as a visitor.

They will never find out! Oh yes they will!

Communication between the public departments in Spain (supply companies are passing information on to the tax department etc.), and between the EU Member States, is increasing. The “Good Old Days”, when you could hide in Spain, has long gone with the implementation of technology and its use within the public administration.

ASSSA Insurance has always been on the same side of the fence as our clients. We have therefore evaluated how we can help future clients so they can afford securing their health costs.

The result in an unequalled “credit crunch” discount scheme, sharing “the pain” of the economic downturn with our clients.

Staggering discounts from 9 to 50% have been applied to our insurances.

Did you say that no company would do that? Well ASSSA has done it!

Respecting that the newspaper has other news to communicate to their readers, it is impossible in this article to go into details of this sensational discount scheme.

Best advice is to contact us to learn more about our Credit Crunch Discounts. That service is discounted with 100%, so you have nothing to lose by soliciting further information.

ASSSA Insurance is your local insurance company with offices here in Murcia, and once a month we are giving consultations in both Cehegín and Los Belones.

ASSSA Insurance, real insurances for real people!

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

New Rescue Facilities for Summer THIS year will see 233 people manning the one hundred safety posts located in the coasts of the Region Plan Copla 2009, will this year have 7 new rescue vehicles and rescue craft added to the resources of the beach rescue teams, with which the total number of rescue vehicles rises to 69, set against the 62 available last year.

With respect to the available vehicles in 2008 they now have in addition one more beach rescue vehicle, one more maritime rescue craft, two quads and another rescue motorbike.

The team now has a total of of 23 rescue vehicles on the beaches, eight rescue boats, 15 rescue canoes, 14 aquajets and 9 quads.

The technical items now include 28 chairs for the use of people with disabilities, an increase of 2.

During the months of June to September, the Plan will mobilise a total of 233 people per day, including rescue workers, senior staff and sanitary technicians in the one hundred guard posts, three more than in 2008, located all along the coast of the Region and in the ‘river beaches’ located in Calasparra and Mula.

Of the three new guard posts, two are located in Playa del Estacio in San Javier, and one in the river beach of Mula.

The guard posts are distributed as follows: 26 in Cartagena; 14 in Mazarrón; 13 in Águilas, San Javier and San Pedro of

the Pinatar; 8 in La Unión; 7 in Los Alcázares; 3 in Lorca; 2 in Calasparra and 1 in Mula. Of all these, 54 are fixed, 26 collapsible and the other 20 are chair watchtowers.

In the team of Plan Copla 2009 the participants are the Regional Administration, the coastal town halls and those of the interior with river beaches, Red Cross, the security forces, the State Company of Maritime Rescue (Sasemar), Maritime Headquarters and the State Agency Of Meteorology.

Also assisting are yacht clubs, sailing schools and the marinas, among others.

The Plan Copla is in operation all year round, but due to the high numbers of people using the beaches, the months of June and September are considered medium danger and the months of July and August, high danger.

In the presentation of the Plan Copla of this year, the Councillor of Presidency and Public Administrations, María Pedro Reverte, emphasized the "maturity and consolidation" of it, after 21 years of operation and the "high level of efficiency reached, although they continue to increase and improve the service".

The global budget of Plan Copla 2009 is 2.5 million euros, of which the autonomous region is contributing 853,300 euros distributed, chiefly among the participating town halls and the Red Cross

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It’s Tax Time Again!

UNTIL August 5th is the deadline for the voluntary payment which will amount to over 47 million euros from a total of 205,577 receipts.

The City Hall of Cartagena expects to collect a total of 205,577 receipts of diverse taxes.

The payments include those for urban, rustic and special characteristic property taxes, rates for rubbish collection and sewage of La Manga and the Mar Menor, as well as a couple of other municipal taxes which are payable by various businesses types.

Most of these receipts - 185,085 correspond to urban property tax, expected to raise 46.435.508,53 euros. Among these receipts, 670 receipts have been subsidized as being habitual dwellings belonging to “familias numerosas” (large families).

Property taxes of rustic properties total 3,132 receipts.

As a new introduction, this year payment of the IBI can be split into two payments. This

measure was originally approved by the government team to be set in motion next year, but given the economic situation and that many citizens have asked whether the payment can be split this year, the City Hall has made an effort and those interested in this system of payment will be able to request it until June 15.

The time limit for payment of the above-mentioned division will be: First payment of 50% of the amount: July 2 2009.

Second payment of remaining 50%: November 2 2009.

The form to request split payment can be collected from the OAGRC offices (calle Caballero nº 7, Cartagena) or can be downloaded in PDF format from the OAGRC webpage at www. oagrc.com.

Payment in banks, via cash machines, on the internet Sources of the Autonomous Agency of Management Recaudatoria of the City Hall

of Cartagena (OAGRC) have explained that 47 percent of these receipts will be collected by direct debit. For some time the agency has been carrying out campaigns to promote the use of direct debit for these payments, what has contributed to an increase in that method of 4 percent.

The remainder of the receipts, that are sent by mail to the homes of the taxpayers, can be paid at banks, cash machines and via the tax payment services of the City Hall on the Internet of the collaborating companies: Cajamurcia, CAM, La Caixa and Cajamar. Utilize the web page of the OAGRC to access them: www. oagrc.com To pay via cash machines, the taxpayers should introduce the codes that are printed on the receipts. Some cash machines have bar code readers that facilitate considerably the work and avoid errors.

Remember –the last day for payment is August 5th.

Prom Improvements in Santiago de la Ribera The construction work of the retaining wall that is being carried out by municipal operatives on the promenade of Santiago de la Ribera will be finished at the end of this month according to the Councillor of Works and Services, Pedro Muñoz.

The wall of 70 centimeters in height is intended to keep back the sand and to serve as a bench for pedestrians

all the way along the paseo from the Barnuevo Esplanade to Ciudad del Aire.

Pedro Muñoz has explained that the works “that are very necessary” began once the Demarcation of Coasts gave the go ahead for this scheme that will solve the problem of sand loss due to the new design of the paseo being on the same level as the beach.

Last summer the new promenade of Santiago de la Ribera was subject to a scheme to improve lighting with 26 new points of light with four columns to each one. This cost 183,000 euros, and along with the already existing lighting, solved the problem of insufficient lighting in the area at night.

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Nosmo Gets The Wind!

OVER 30 members and guests of the Nosmo Club, Los Alcazares, recently enjoyed a tour of the windmills of Torre Pacheco with the assistance of official guide, Maria Jose.

At the flour mill Molina de Pasico the group were introduced to Pepe, the miller, who demonstrated how flour was ground using the 1000kg grinding wheel rotated by the 8 sail windmill. The angle of the sails can be adjusted by turning the roof of the windmill to obtain maximum wind power depending on wind direction.

The second mill visited was the Hortichuela Molina which is a restored water mill that extracts irrigation water from the depths of the sub-soil by means of an endless rope to which is fixed terracotta pots.

The tour provided a remarkable insight into the farming past of the area.

The group enjoyed an outstanding lunch at Restaurante Athabasca to complete a memorable outing.

Chairperson David Aldous said “ This popular event is typical of the days out that our committee arrange. We have regular weekly meetings when we hold quizes, American Dominos, card bingo, petanca etc and monthly menu del dias or evening meals”.

Details and booking for the Windmill Tours can be obtained from: Ayuntamiento de Torre Pacheco, 968 57 99 37 The Nosmo Club meets most Wednesdays at La Roda Village Social Club from 7.00pm.

Program and club details can be obtained from 968 54 68 17.

Raquel Peña Spanish Dance Company Donates €2000 To Help Vega Baja THE Raquel Peña Spanish Dance Company presented to Jean Thomas, Vice President of HELP Vega Baja a very generous donation of €2000 from their Rojales Capitol Theatre Show last May 24th. This very popular Spanish dance company

always supports an officially registered charity for their major concerts and and have donated over €50,000 to many of the local charities in this area. Raquel Peña has announced that from now on the company will do their spring concert on the Alicante

side and in the late fall another concert on the Murcia side. The Fall 2009 Concert will be for Help Murcia Mar Menor with details to be announced shortly.

For any further information please contact the company on 630 689 431.

Coro Pilar Golf Competition

ON a sunny day in May Coro Pilar, which is an international choir based in El Pinar de Campoverde, held its first golf competition as part of its new social scene.

The competition was organised by Annette Braun from Germany, who sings in the choir and her husband Manfred and was held at “La Tercia” golf

club on the Costa Cálida.

As the temperatures soared, so did the competition. After some hard fought games three prizes were presented. The first prize for the ladies went to Kerstin Hollander from Sweden with Margaret Odell from the UK in second position. The men’s prize was awarded to Ron Odell, also from the UK.

At the end of the competition drinks and tapas were provided

by Annette and Manfred who have stated that this will be the first of many golf competitions.

Anyone who is interested in joining Coro Pilar should contact John (English) - 96 676 3446, Kerstin (Swedish, German, Spanish) - 96 676 2846

Compeition Winner John Harvey Takes To The Skies with Flight Fantastic...

John Harvey thoroughly enjoyed his aerobatic flight with Flight Fantastic at Los Martinez.

His wife Andrea said 'I was so shocked when I found out we had won, we are never usually lucky like that' Andrea watched from the ground as John experienced a combination of loops and rolls After the flight John said his experience 'was unreal' he said he just couldn't find the words to describe the thrill. (www.flightfantastic.biz)

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Help Murcia Mar Menor HELP MURCIA MAR MENOR has been registered for 6 years as a voluntary and charitable association with over 250 members. We offer help to anyone of any age and nationality and offer a 24 hour helpline for any time that you find you have no-one or nowhere else to call.

We can supply you with temporary orthopaedic aids and electric scooters for a small donation. We supply up to date fact and information sheets about medical services, sudden deaths, and how and where to obtain residencias and padrons.

We have a hospital visiting group, at present covering Los Arcos Hospital.

We also can provide drivers when needed for medical appointments.

We have other on-going groups; Diabetic Support, Friendship, Fund Raising & Cancer Support who make appointments for cervical, breast and prostate screening in the Murcia area, please ring 680 393 257. We are entirely dependent upon volunteers, funds raised from charity sales at the

Auto-Cine Car Park in San Javier on Wednesdays & Saturdays, sometimes Sundays, at special events throughout the year and of course, donations.

We do need to recruit new volunteers urgently being so busy.

The office, which we rent, is based at Calle Conde Campillo 15 Bajo, 30720 Santiago de la Ribera, and is open Mon-Fri. 10-1.30 with disabled parking outside. We hold a General Meeting on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at La Biblioteca, CISSMU, Los Narejos (except in August & December) at 12pm followed by lunch in adjoining restaurant El Torreon at 1.30. Our AGM is held in March each year. Yearly membership is only 10€. PLEASE FEEL WELCOME TO COME ALONG & JOIN. HELP MURCIA MAR MENOR can be reached by post, telephone 968 570059, e-mail: info@helpmurciamarmenor. org and our website is: info@ helpmurciamarmenor.org

You Are Lovely People THANK YOU, you are lovely people, for you gave of your time on Friday 29th May to come along to the MABS, Mazarrón Table Top Sale outside Trevi’s bar on Camposol B, Mazarrón.

THANK YOU for your generosity of gifts, nearly-new clothing, bric-a-brac and much more that we were able to sell so that our supporters can reach out

with a friendly hand to help the cancer patients we support.

THANK YOU for your thoughtfulness in helping us to allay fears and concerns that may occur during and after cancer treatment with the money you have given from events and donations.

THANK YOU to all who helped make this day special. I am sure that one

39 11

A New Scam A resident in La Siesta near Torrevieja has his house up for sale and about 8pm on Tuesday night 3 Africans arrived saying that they might be interested in buying his house.

He allowed them in and they said that before they could decide whether the house was suitable they would check with their wives and come back later.

They did come back at about 10pm and said they would pay cash, with no banks involved.

One of the three said they needed to make the purchase because he was returning to Johannesburg the next day.

He produced a box loaded with Euro notes and said that they could be checked for authenticity by using an ultra violet torch he had with him. He took out what looked like a thick wad of €500 notes and proceeded to show the top one and the bottom one under the UV light which as far as could be seen indicated that they were genuine, however, the others were not checked.

man has lost his vocation as he expertly sweeps with his brush. I reckon it was a bad move on his part, because his wife was watching his hands expertly move so that all was clean. He only has himself to blame if he is called upon to sweep their villa and garden in the near future!

The Table Top Sale raised 653€ THANK YOU Our next event is PAULINE’S COFFEE MORNING on Wednesday 17th June at 9 Calle Baza, Camposol

The owner told them that he was not happy to make a sale without banks and lawyers being involved, and so they left.

Although the householder thought the notes may have all been genuine the whole scenario was very dubious and so he contacted NHW so that others may be made aware of this possible scam.

This is a scam where thieves will look to prey on people urgently needing to sell their property. Please do as this gentleman did and make sure banks and lawyers and a translator are involved in any sale of property.

Should you be approached by anyone trying to pull what you suspect is a scam firmly and politely say no and inform the police and Neighbourhood Watch of the details, especially description of the person(s) involved and any vehicle details you can note down.

Ray Marsh NHW Press Officer

D26 from 11am till 3pm. Tea, coffee plus little bites, sausage rolls, scones and cream. Next to new clothes, Bob’s Quiz with prizes, darts for those with keen eyes and tombola. Pauline even has the facility in her garden for a quick game of petanca but needs someone to organise this event.

Call or text. 663 308 584 to become a Friend of MABS Mazarrón or email mazmabs@hotmail.com and we will get back to you.

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

4.7 million euros to improve water quality

Would you like to HELP?

THE Government Counsel has authorised the contracting of works included in the development project of treatment in the sewage plants of Totana and Blanca, with budgets of 2,408,906 euros and 2,304,393 euros, respectively.

As a result of these two projects, the Department of Agriculture and Water intends to reach the highest standard in the quality of the treated water and by this means the degree of purification will be superior to that established by the

I have enjoyed being a MABS Mazarron volunteer driver for two years, having driven Cancer Patients for different types of treatment to Hospitals and Clinics in Murcia, Cartagena and Alicante.

On my first drive to Naval Hospital, Cartagena I had enjoyable banter, if fact we all did for, as well as the driver, a MABS Mazarron escort/support comes along if needed, with the lovely lady who was having treatment for breast cancer.

If it is a morning trip I always make sure that we have time for coffee and tostada with tomatoes or marmalade in the hospital cafeteria.

Okay, it may mean getting up a little early.

I did that for years and it was called WORK, this means much more. Sometimes it isn’t possible for the patient to eat, who maybe having a test where they must fast, but there is usually time later.

The trip to Alicante involved a fifteen minute treatment for the patient, later she and her friend wanted to go shopping in a nearby shopping centre, which was fun after a Menu del Día. It gave all of us time to stretch our legs before the journey back.

I have met people from different parts of the UK and other countries, who are very friendly and they even manage to laugh at my jokes, so I must be doing something right!

If a translator is needed they come along as well, so that there is never a worry about not understanding what is being said. With subsequent treatments a translator is usually unnecessary.

I have never become lost and if there is any problem with the direction of the hospital the escort/support volunteer can use the Sat Nav in the MABS Mazarron car.

community regulations.

The works projected in both municipalities consist of the construction of a large regulating deposit, pumps, filtration systems with sand, and a system for disinfecting utilising ultraviolet disinfection, among others.

Murcia, leader in purified water The Region of Murcia is the leading community in Spain when it comes to recycling of

water. All the municipalities have water-treatment systems, that produce more than 100 cubic hectameters of water per year, for use in agriculture. The Region of Murcia is a model of efficiency in the purification of water and modernization of irrigation systems.

The priority of the Department of Agriculture and Water, once the new water systems are built is to provide the highest quality reused water for subsequent reuse.

Cabo de Palos Set To Attempt a Guiness Record THE Department of Culture and Tourism, along with the Estacion Nautica del Mar Menor is preparing an event from the 10th to 12th of October to try to beat the record of 958 divers which is the current record held

by The Maldives.

The Councillor for Culture and Tourism, Pedro Alberto Cruz, has presented an event that will be held in Calafría, Cabo de Palos, from October 10th to

12th to try and reach the figure of 1,300 divers in simultaneous immersion and beat the current Guiness Record.

It is also intended to thereby put Cabo de Palos on the map for all divers and to publicise the beautiful marine seabeds of the area.

As Cruz indicated, "this event, besides being original and fresh, has a great media dimension and could attract some 5,000 people, with the consequent

positive tourist impact for the area in a month such as October which is normally outside the usual tourist season".

Activities that will be included in the event will be both for the participants and for those attending to watch including a barbecue, an orchestra, children’s activities, and trials of sailing and diving.

School Books To Become Lighter THE Councillor for Education, Training and Employment, Constantino Sotoca, last week signed a covenant with the National Association of Book Publishers & Teaching Material (ANELE), to reduce the weight that students will carry in their backpacks. The objective is to split the textbooks of the main subjects into three volumes, one per term, so that the students only have the one appropriate volume to carry that term, thus reducing the weight they have to carry and reducing the risk of back strain.

Sotoca gave assurances that "the new format will ensure the weight that students carry will be reduced by two thirds since according to a study by the Kovacs Foundation, it should never exceed 10 percent of the student’s body weight".

He underlined that this initiative, "pioneering here in Murcia, will affect a total of 32,607 students of 5th and 6th grade of primary", although he intimated that "the covenant

leaves open the possibility of expanding the scheme to other grades of primary". As a result, the books for the main subjects will be divided and will be available in any bookstore with the price equivalent to the original ‘single’ book.

The motivation to apply this measure in 5th and 6th grade of primary is in response to the contents of the Constitutional Law of Education for the next academic year when the students will have to change books and this is the ideal time to put this new scheme into practice, according to the Councillor. The result should be that students will carry 2 kilos less.

Sotoca indicated that according to data from the Kovacs Foundation almost half of boys and 70 percent of girls have suffered some back pain before the age of 15 and that the weight of their backpacks has contributed to this. The scheme should ensure a reduction in this problem which has been highlighted by families teaching

staff and specialists, among others. Therefore the signing of this covenant for the new scheme will satisfy the demands of families and others to reduce the weight and the potential for injury.

The Councillor underlined "the efforts of the regional Government to establish healthy habits in the school, with innovative initiatives that improve the quality of life of students and that contribute to the acquisition of healthy habits" and made reference to other programs such as that of 'Fruit in Schools’ that has the same objective.

Finally, he thanked the ANELE for their willingness to participate in the project and added that "the covenant leaves the door open for possible future plans which may be of benefit to students and teachers and enable improvements in the quality of education which we all support".

Foreign Tourists Up 18.2% THE data on the number of foreign tourists to the region in April 2009 shows an increase over 2008 according to Frontur. They reveal that the number of visitors with respect to the same month of 2008 rose from 62,635 in April 2008 to 74,038 in April of this year. This shows that the Region’s figures have grown 18.2 percent, while the national average has decreased by 1.7 percent.

Accumulating the figures for the months from January to April of 2009, the Region Of Murcia also experienced a 9.2 percent increase in numbers in contrast to a decrease of almost 12 percent nationally. The number of visitors between January and April of 2008 was of 186,117, while in the same period of 2009, the figure reached the 203,272.

Sometimes it is necessary to use my own car but the first few visits I made were to hospitals, I or the escort knew.

Often the patient directs me when we are near the place for the appointment telling me an easier route or a place for parking. If you do not want to be a VOLUNTEER then perhaps, if not NOW but in the future when you feel you have a little more time when your family and friends have enjoyed their delightful visit to your villa over the summer you might consider becoming A Friend of MABS, Mazarron?

YOU as a friend would help with your thoughtfulness relieve the pressure on our current fundraising team, who also double up as patient supporters.

YOU would enjoy helping with different types of events like: - Table Top Sales; Boot Sales; Coffee Mornings; Dinner Dances and Fun Nights. YOU would be ONE of the FRIENDS of MABS Mazarrón and would be involved solely in the fundraising activities.

MABS Mazarrón is a registered charity and as such does not receive any funding from local or central government. All monies raised remains in the Mazarrón area and are used to help local people and their families who are affected by cancer. MABS Mazarrón is currently looking for more people to help them raise funds so their work within the community can be assured.

Call 663 308 584 to become a Friend of MABS, Mazarron or email mazmabs@hotmail.com.

Helpline No. 620 422 410 Web:www.mabsmazarron.com

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS FOUR-LETTER WORDS BONAPARTE - 67 WORDS Abet, aeon, ante, area, atop. Bane, bare, barn, bate, bean, bear, beat, bent, beta, boar, boat, bone, bore, bort, bran, brat.

Earn, ebon. Nape, neap, near, neat, note.

Open. Pane, pant, pare, part, pate, pear, peat, pent, peon, pern, pert, poet, pone, pore, port, proa. Rant, rape, rapt, rata, rate, reap, rent, roan, robe, rope, rota, rote. Tape, tare, tarn, tear, tern, tone, tope, tore, torn, trap.

LOST LETTERS SOLUTION

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS

SOLUTIONS Across 1 Slag, 4 Kebab, 7 Breach, 8 Lithe, 11 Shout, 12 Least, 13 Droll, 16 Entail, 17 Doyen, 18 Awed. Down 2 Lurcher, 3 Gradual, 4 Kohl, 5 Bait, 6 Bode, 9 Inertia, 10 Hospice, 13 Dead, 14 Obey, 15 Lean.

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

13

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14

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

The Silly Old Sods Are At It Again…

MABS say,

There’s no stopping this lot, having passed the 500 euro mark, they’ve upped the stakes and are now fining members of the group for every infringement of group etiquette in a desperate bid to raise yet more money for the Camposol Fiesta.

After the presentation of a cheque for an astonishing 520 euros, the group resumed their habitual Friday afternoon joke telling sessions from the group headquarters in Kennellys Bar on Camposol Sector B, adding to the total of pints consumed since August last year.

Passing punters are invited to contribute a euro to the fiesta fundraising efforts by guessing how many pints the group have drunk between them during the regular Friday afternoon meetings, the winner receiving 5 tickets for the grand car draw which will see one lucky person walking away with a beautiful brand new car.

There are now just a few tickets remaining, which can be purchased from the foyer of Consum in the mornings, or at selected bars on the Camposol Commercial Centre. With the odds at only 1500 to 1, the tickets, which are priced at 10 euros each, are well worth a little flutter.

The final run-up to the fiesta is now well under way, with the programme confirmed, the food ordered and the stands for the fete area all constructed.

The Silly old Sods have made a whole range of traditional fairground booths, including a Coconut Shy, Aunt Sally and Hoop La, we’ve just got to hope that they don’t start telling us any of their awful jokes whilst we’re aiming for that coconut or they may find themselves with a very large pile left over at the end of the fiesta!

If you fancy having a guess at the total pint consumption during the last year, head for Kennellys Bar on a Friday afternoon, where you’ll be persuaded to part with a euro , but be warned, turning up without a Silly Old Sods shirt is a 1 euro fine, telling a bad joke is a 1 euro fine, and telling the best joke of the day could land you with the honour of buying the next round….

let them eat cake……

Tea and cakes are an essential component of the English country fete, and although it will be difficult to guarantee a torrential downpour just as the vicar gets out his scissors to cut the ribbon for the beginning of the afternoon’s festivities, one thing the Camposol fiesta can ensure is that there’ll be plenty of cake for all, thanks to the ladies at MABS. MABS have offered to run a cake stall, and anyone feeling the urge to whip out an apron and conjure up some culinary magic, is invited to donate something cakey for the stall, all the proceeds of which will be going to support MABS in their cancer support scheme.

The other essential component of an English summer event is the fierce rivalry over who can make the best sponge cake or iced bun in the village, so in honour of this great tradition, members of Simply Business, the local business networking group, are sponsoring a competition to find the best cake and bread makers in the area, with invitations to everyone to enter and raise money in support of MABS. Quicksave on Camposol Commercial Sector B have offered to provide a hamper

of cake making goodies for the winner of the best family cake category, Gusto Catering/Rainbow Satellites will be providing a lovely prize for the best bread and sponsors are being sought for the children’s best decorated small cake and the Men’s, “so you girls think you can cook “ category. In addition, Laurence from Simply Networking will be entering the Lions Den by offering to judge the best sponge cake on offer and donating a big pile of plants for prizes.

Entry forms are available in Quicksave, Camposol Commercial Sector B and Trevis Bar or entries can be registered online through the contact us page on www.simplynetworking.es Please state which category you would like to enter, and give a name, contact number and preferably an email address so that you can be notified of the winners if you are unable to be present on the day. The judging will take place on the Saturday morning, and all entries need to be in the marquee for 10.30. Anyone unable to deliver the entry on the Saturday morning can deliver the cakes to Trevis Bar on the Friday evening.

Categories Best family cake, anything suitable for a family. Could be a fruit cake, ginger cake, farmhouse, seed cake, chocolate cake, whatever your family like best.

Best bread. Poppy seed, sunflower bread, olive or sundried tomato, brown bread, white crusty loaf, rolls or baps.

Best Sponge cake. Laurence’s favourite.

Calories compulsory.

Best decorated small cakes, children’s category. Gingerbread men, cookies, iced cup cakes, let your artistic imagination run wild. 3 small cakes per entry.

“So you girls think you can cook.” Best Men’s cake. Absolutely no cheating allowed!!!

All entries will be sold by MABS once judging is complete.

Top Country and Western Artist Phil Brady in Mazarrón This Weekend On Saturday June 6th, The Lions are hosting an evening of Country and Western music at Rumours Bar, Camposol Commercial Sector B. The evening features Phil Brady, supported by the Croonin Country Disco.

The evening starts at 7.30pm.

Phil Brady is a BCMA Country Music Award winner, and has an amazing pedigree as a country and western artist.

Like many adolescents raised in the south of Liverpool, Brady learned about country music from the seamen returning from the USA. Encouraged by Hank Walters' Black Cat Club, he formed his own band, The Ranchers, in 1962, including Frank Peters on steel guitar, and they built a reputation in the north-west despite the fierce competition from beat

music. They were featured on Decca's 1965 album, Liverpool Goes Country, and Brady recorded the first single ("An American Sailor At The Cavern") for the Cavern Club's own label.

Because the Cavern went into liquidation, most copies went to the official receiver, and it is the UK's most collectable British country single. Phil Brady And The Ranchers became nationally popular through the BBC programme Country Meets Folk.

He went to Nashville in 1968, played Grand Ole Opry, and recorded Songs Of Nashville on his return. They toured

the UK with Buck Owens and Slim Whitman, and their instrumental, A Little Bit Country, was recorded at Joe Brown's studio with Brown on fiddle. The tear-jerking "Little Rosa" is his most requested number, and other

popular singles include "The Exeter Bypass" and "Let The Whole World Sing It With Me". Brady now works solo.

Tickets are available from Diane on 968 431 521 / 678 375 509.

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

15

Positive Action Bridging Religion, Race and Communities

in the aisle of a level supermarket, this has led to one or two difficult situations, with boxes and trolleys parting company, so the volunteers at Caritas are delighted by the arrival of a new Sack Barrow, donated by local English-run business, Kevins Fly Screens.

Kevin, who is a member of the local business group, Simply Business, heard about the problems of the ladies of Caritas at the last business meeting and immediately purchased a new sackbarrow to make their lives easier. He hopes that this will eliminate incidences of trolley rage in the basement and minimize the risk of a shopping trolley full of lentils careering into one of the volunteers!

What a melting pot. We have English Christians helping Spanish Catholic volunteers who are feeding Muslims and Ecuadorian families with the aid of local English-run businesses in the Murcian region of Spain.

It’s hard to believe that in this beautiful region of Spain, which for many of us is a dream retirement destination, that there are people here who are forced to live on handouts from a local church and can’t afford to feed their own families. You’d think that if the breadwinner of a family was unable to work, or lost their employment through no fault of their own, that they’d be entitled to money from the state to help them through a difficult period of their lives, and that being evicted from their homes wouldn’t happen in a beautiful place like this, but happen it does.

This economic crisis is deeper than many understand, unemployment at record levels, and the low paid unskilled, those who graft in the fields at 40 degrees, are the ones who have been put on short term contracts which give them no financial support when they inevitably are the first to go in the cutbacks, and who have no entitlement to support from the Spanish government.

The windows have been boarded up at the social security office in Mazarrón. The English shop next door shake their heads in disbelief at the daily scenes of anger and tears, as desperate families are denied help, and the locksmith called on to change the locks as these families are turned out onto the street finds it hard to believe that this could be happening to human beings like ourselves, who, like us, have come to Spain to seek a better standard of living for

themselves and their families, but are trapped, being unable to afford the tickets to return home to their country of birth.

The 95,000 euros recently given by the council to help improve the integration of immigrants into the Mazarrón Community went to organizations such as the Mazarrón Tae Kwondo Association, the Mazarrón basketball team, and other associations which aim to prevent domestic abuse, teach Spanish to immigrant families and offer training in improvement of employability skills, which, although they probably do much to improve the morale of those families who have employment in the area, do little to help those who fall out of the system.

This lot falls to Caritas, a charity run out of the basement of the church of San Jose in Mazarrón, who give clothes and food to those in this difficult situation, but who currently find themselves desperately short of food to distribute, due to the sheer number of families asking for help.

Several English volunteers, including Bert, Jim and Amanda work at the church alongside the Spanish volunteers, sorting donations of clothing, and bagging up the food into mixed bags for distribution.

Amanda D’arcy Nassau, who has been working on the voluntary project for the last 18 months, collects unwanted clothing from Camposol and surrounding areas and takes it down to Caritas, where it is graded into clothing that can be distributed immediately or sent to Murcia for recycling.

She is always desperately short of practical men’s clothes, and childrenswear, clothing that can be used on a daily basis.

She currently has a surplus of women’s items, so plans are afoot

to begin a clothes swap scheme, whereby members of the public will be offered the opportunity to obtain high quality ladies brands in exchange for the basic foodstuffs needed desperately

by Caritas. The details for the scheme will be posted on the Simply Networking website in the coming weeks.

To bridge the gap, collections will begin next week, just one morning a week, at some of the local supermarkets for basic foodstuffs, such as rice, pasta, flour, sugar, milk cartons, jars or packs of lentils and beans as well as cooking oil or tinned tomatoes or fish.

The food will all be basic, practical, everyday items that are all low cost, and can be stored easily, as Caritas has very little storage space and needs to distribute the food the same week it is collected. Although it is uncomfortable to have to ask the general public to help, there seems very little option given the lack of state funding for projects like this. Caritas in Lorca have recently been forced to suspend their own food distribution scheme due to the withdrawal of funding by the local council there who have staggering debts of over 100 million euros, and can no longer afford to help local charities..

Another problem the volunteers in Caritas have to face is the practicality of lugging boxes of clothing and crates of heavy foodstuffs around.

Most of the storage is downstairs, and the volunteers, many of whom are well into their seventies, have been balancing boxes precariously on top of shopping trolleys, then trying to hold them in place whilst going down a ramp to the basement.

As most shopping trolleys are uncontrollable when loaded even

If anyone has any clothing that they would like to donate, Amanda, who lives on Camposol, would love to hear from you. She can be contacted on 678 598 677.

If anyone is interested in helping out with the collections, which will take place one morning a week around the Mazarrón area, please contact Zoe at Simply networking on www.simplynetworking.es or call 968 971 824. www.simplynetworking.es Bringing people together.

16

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

What's On

Free Concert in Mazarrón Friday 5th June 2009 The 5th of June is Worldwide Environment Day, and Mazarron council are marking the day with a free concert in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Mazarrón, which is the square in front of the main Mazarrón Town Hall at 6pm, given by the musical association Maestro Eugenio Calderon .

Free Concert of Renaissance Music Friday 5th June 2009 There's an interesting concert in Lorca on the 5th June in the Palacio de Guevara, given by the ensemble La Danserye, as part of the Ecos cycle of concerts.

La Danserye comprises 6 musicians, 4 of whom are brothers, and they have made their own instruments, reproductions of original instruments from the period of the Renaissance.

In this programme of music from France, Italy, The Netherlands, Germany and Spain, they interpret dances, formal and informal music of the flamboyant and revolutionary age of the Renaissance.

The concert begins at 9pm and entrance is free.

Symphonic Orchestra of Vienna, Haydn and Mahler Auditorium Victor Villegas, Murcia.

Sunday 7th June 2009, 8.30 pm Symphonic Orchestra of Vienna Haydn - Symphony number 87, The Bear Mahler – Symphony number 4 Mojca Erdmann, Soprano, Fabio Luisi, Director Information about the Auditorium Victor Villegas, Murcia.

The auditorium hosts a wide range of musical and dance performances by top worldwide artists. Ticket prices are fairly steep compared to many other performances in the region, but the performances are all absolutely top class and the facilities are superb.

Ticket sales Telephone 968 34 30 80 Opening times Monday to Friday from 10am to 1pm and 5pm to 8pm Saturdays from 10am to 1pm Saturdays and performance days, the box office is open 2 hours before the performance for ticket collections and sales.

Sundays closed.

To buy tickets online and to see the full programme of events go to www.auditoriomurcia. org. The Auditorium Victor Villegas is situated in the Avenida Primer de Mayo, which is one of the principle arteries of Murcia, directly off the Ronda Sur, the main southern ring road.

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Mazarron Bowls Club Draw at Home to Emerald Isle Mazarron maintained their good performance in inter-club matches but with only a draw this time against Emerald Isle Bowls Club at home.

Mazarron shared the plaudits 4 matches to 4 in this most recent triples encounter and yet still protecting the overall record in inter-club matches of 4 wins, 3 losses and now a single draw. This latest test was led by a best performance win of 21-9 from Brian Shakespeare, Wendy Reynolds and skip Terry Franklin and good wins 20-13 from John Whyte, Jack White and skip John Allaker and 22-15 by Barbara Tottey, Gordon Tottey and skip John Smith. Johnny Sparrow, Nick Ford and skip Jim Tarrant came from behind to snatch their victory by the mere margin of 16-15. Overall a satisfactory performance and everybody keen to face up to next opponents Indalo Bowls Club at home.

In the months ahead there will be quite a schedule of inter-club matches and imminently it looks as though we will be having a visit of inspection from the CBBA (Costa Blanca Bowls Association) following on the recent visit from the SABA (South Alicante Bowls Alliance). It will be important to do well in the matches. The statistics on past match results yield quite interesting analyses on a number of aspects and including team selection. From the records available the Club has fielded at least 20 different skips covering only six matches and from a Membership of approximately 120! Does the Club really have that number of competent skips? There has been no repeat at all from one match to another of any team combination whether winning or losing.

Does this contribute to consistent team performance?

Is this unavoidable due to availabilities or does

there need to be a more select pool for selection of skips, and perhaps of leads and seconds as well, and generally a better defined selection policy? We know that the Captain and Vice-captain are giving thought to these matters and how things might be improved and it could be that perhaps a selection sub-committee might be desirable. Above all, however, it is important that Members’ enthusiasm to play in inter-club matches is kept alive and not discouraged as the strength of the opposition hots up.

Apart from all that the domestic Triples League competition continues apace and is now approaching the half-way stage in the current series. Former champions “Better Late than Never” (Tottey, Allaker, Franklin, Scarfe and Logue) have recovered somewhat from an early setback and look to be ominous again. Meanwhile a new combination of “The Young Ones“ is maintaining a strong lead at the top of the table and with a somewhat remarkable score count which could be critical in the final stages.

Having made these observations, the leaders will be well aware that “Ballykiss Angels” (Richard and Rose Smith, Johnny Sparrow and David Green) are

ominously poised to upset the applecart being only one point off the pace but with a game in hand. Last week’s match against current second place holders “Good, Bad and Ugly” (Tarrant, Ford and Godfrey) demonstrated the “Angel’s” determination when they held out to take the match 15-13. There is a way to go yet with a good climax developing.

On the personnel front we can report that President Brian Tokely is convalescing with progress after his triple by-pass operation and that the everoptimistic Paul Morriss is now back home and doing well after leaving significant spare pieces behind on the surgeon’s table. Keith Salter tells us he is now in a lot less pain from his back although the further outlook is yet to be decided. We wish each of these gentlemen continued good progress to full recoveries.

The club will be pleased to welcome newcomers to Hacienda at any time although only Tuesdays and Thursdays are regular Club Days at the moment.

Anyone interested to make contact should contact Richard Cooper on 968 13 619 or refer to the club’s website at www.mazarronbowlsclub.webs.com

San Javier Golf Society Wednesday 20th May

Aguillon Golf Course Report by Bob Gallard Something different for this visit to Aguillon. A better ball competition on a course which none of us had played before, on a day which proved to be one of the hottest so far. Most of us met up at Los Alcazares and made a convoy of cars down the new motorway to arrive only 1 hour and 15 minutes later at the course. The directions from the motorway were easy to follow, however some players came from a different direction and couldn’t find the course signs, but a phone call put them back on track and they arrived in plenty of time for the first tee time. On our arrival we had time for a drink and practice but the practice facilities unfortunately were rather poor. There is no driving range just a warm up net and the putting green across the road is too small when you have 20 or more players trying to practice.

We were advised that the course was difficult to walk and everyone rode in a buggy, the other advice we were given was watch out for the barancas and take plenty of golf balls with us. Well that was sound advice for more than

a few members as there seemed to be barancas everywhere and balls were disappearing with great regularity. The course was in superb condition apart from the bunkers, but the management had made a local rule and playing out of them was a lot easier. The views from the course are spectacular and the design of the course is very tight, it is very much a thinker’s course and players would benefit from walking the course before trying to master it. There are 5 par 3's on there and we had a nearest the pin prize on each of them, some of them were difficult playing over a baranca or water to small greens, but members managed it and they were all hit with the prizes going to Hole 4 Roy Herbert, Hole 8 Paul Matthews, Hole 10 Geoff Green, Hole 12 Dave Allin and Hole 17 Richard Wale.

The overall competition was a better ball and partners were picked out of the hat with 1 low and 1 high handicapper, this was to make it even for everyone. Well the captain triumphed again as he was drawn with Roy Herbert and they came home with the better ball score of 45 points. In second place was the pairing of Paul Richards and John Hillier who managed a very creditable 42 points.

Finally third place went to Darren Hancock and Dave Allin with 41 points.

Most of the society were impressed with the course, a few vowed never to return and some

said they would come again when they had saved up enough money for a few dozen golf balls.

My overall assessment is that it is a difficult course, one for the mid to low handicapper, well designed and great value for money. They have the right idea at Aguillon, they are very friendly, accommodating and charge a realistic green fee. If they could just make some better practice facilities then I am sure this course even being an hour away from San Javier will attract a few more people there.

For more information on the society go to www. sanjaviergolfsociety.co.uk

Open Better Ball Competition Saturday 23rd May 2009.

Report by Bob Gallard

This was the first of many hopefully and 28 players attended from far and wide as well as from the local community.

The day began with breakfast at the Lakeview Bar, well, a bacon sandwich and a cup of coffee whilst the preparations for the comp were made. The first tee was at 10 a.m. and the weather looked set for being a scorcher. Some players had turned up expecting heavy rain and cool conditions and others had cried off after receiving a misleading weather forecast but with Stewart our Marshall on the first tee we were off and running on time.

Sierra is only a 9 hole course at present so it was decided that we would play off the yellow tees on the first 9 and the white tees the second time around. In hindsight this was probably the wrong way round but it did make a huge difference to how the course played. Very quickly the temperature rose and it was a welcome sight to see Stewart and Hollie from the Lakeview Bar with cool drinks around the course.

As I said we had quite a few players who had never played or even heard of Sierra Golf before in the competition so it was an opportunity to get some feedback on what they thought of the course. Another great advantage was that our greenkeeper Ruven also played the course for the first time and was able to see at first hand how the course plays.

The course is very young and the greens are coming on, they were slow to putt on but true. The fairways are not too bad but being in the “desert” it’s difficult enough to grow grass anyway. The bunkers are a problem and a local rule allows players to drop in the bottom of them at the moment until the remedial work has been completed.

After the game everyone retired to the Lakeview bar for drinks and the prize giving, once the scores had been calculated and checked. The prizes were awarded for first, second and third places along with 4 nearest the pins and a longest drive. Following this there was a draw for a number of golfing prizes which was well received. Overall comments on the day were that everyone had enjoyed the competition and was looking forward to the next event.

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

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Jane Burton, a qualified practising Feng Shui Consultant in the UK and Spain for 7 years. Jane has also written articles for magazines in the USA, UK, Asia, Zambia and Spain for 7 years on Feng Shui. She features monthly in the Costa Blanca's Female Focus and the Costa del Sol's Key to Mijas magazines. Once a month on a Thursday morning she appears on Onda Cero International Radio Costa Blanca discussing aspects of Feng Shui with Pauline McGough. She has a successful Feng Shui Consultancy, established 7 years and can give advice on site but also by phone or email too. Jane and her team run weekend workshops/retreats on Feng Shui and other subjects in a stunning venue in the Jalon Valley. More information. http.//www.fengshui-solutions.co.uk or call. 96 648 2636

Feng Shui Misunderstandings & Myths - Part 2 In the last article I outlined and explained some of the coded phrases from Feng Shui, now below I have given 5 of the most common myths I have come across that some believe to be actual Feng Shui remedies. There are many many more but I do not have the space to fit them all in. If you want advice on Feng Shui it is always best to go to a qualified recommended Feng Shui Consultant.

1. Pictures of fish or real fish bring prosperity. Myth.

People have assumed that the fish is the symbol of prosperity, when in actuality it is the water which can help attract wealth. The fish swimming keeps the water moving around in the same way a water pump can in an aquarium or fountain. It is the moving water which generates the prosperity, not the fish themselves.

need to be used very carefully, when a moving metal remedy is called for, but not in every situation.

3. Painting your front door red will make you lucky.

Myth.

To the Chinese, the colour red has many positive associations, but energetically it is the fire element. Large amounts of red, such as doors and walls, can be very negative when used in the wrong situation.

4. Having antiques in your house is negative Feng Shui.

Myth. This is a New-Age spin on what it means to have things that are second hand.

The Chinese like all of us love to have things passed down to keep the memory of loved ones and ancestors alive.

5. Pictures of red peonies and love birds will bring romance to a single person.

Myth. Again, this is an example of how

psychological impressions, cultural symbolism, or wishful thinking can be mistaken for authentic Feng Shui remedies.

If you want advice on Feng Shui it is always best to go to a qualified recommended Feng Shui Consultant and don't be afraid to ask to see the qualifications - if they have studied hard to gain

2. Wind chimes keep negative spirits away. Myth. They

them they will be more than happy to show them off!

Also I am always available for Feng Shui Consultations and Tarot Readings both private and group bookings call me on 96 648 2636 or visit my website at: www.janeburton.com.

Jane Burton, a qualified Astrologer, recognised by the Astrological Society of Great Britain. Jane has written horoscopes for magazines in the USA, UK, Asia, Zambia and Spain for 7 years. She features monthly in the Costa Blanca's Female Focus and the Costa del Sol's Key to Mijas magazines. Every Thursday morning she appears on Onda Cero International Radio Costa Blanca with weekly horoscopes. She has a successful worldwide Tarot Reading Consultancy, established 12 years, by phone or email. Jane and her team run weekend workshops/retreats on Astrology, Tarot, Feng Shui and Mediumship in a stunning venue in the Jalon Valley. Recently Jane has been advising as Astrological Technical Advisor to a US film producer on an Astrological fantasy movie "Paths of Destiny", Jeff Goldblum is ready to sign for a leading role. More information. http.//www.janeburton.com or call. 96 648 2636

ARIES (March 21-April 19).

Hold ups on the work front will call on all your expert juggling skills to keep everyone happy Aries. You're a breath of fresh air and others will be on side and a good job too as you need this support to achieve your goals now.

CANCER (June 21-July 22). You are being pulled in two different directions by work mates and loved ones. Don't let them overpower you and try to avoid tricky situations due to your own impulsive actions especially around the full moon on the 7th.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22). Onwards and upwards Libra, you are in the mood to make changes so start negotiating a better deal as far as joint finances or earnings are concerned, it may be slow but don't worry you will get there in the end.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). A busy schedule Capricorn, you'll need to be fit, eating well and relaxing when you can grab a minute. Your engine will be stalling with Saturn and Uranus until around mid month so stay focused and don't veer off your path.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20).

There will be no stopping you now due to a great aspect from Mars, delays and frustrations of late will disappear now and you will be forging ahead. Venus in your own sign on the 6th makes relationships a focus now.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You are forcing yourself on others, making demands in a very authoritarian way as only Leo's can, its just a good job those around you are flexible enough to bend to your ways now but don't push it too much now hey!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21). A very spiritual time Scorpio, changes are occurring in a very subtle way but they are happening now, there is also a need for you to delve much deeper into yourself and assess your life and where it’s going.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Time to knuckle down and get on with a bit of spring cleaning in the home, OK so it’s a little late but better late than never hey! There will be fun distractions for you to let loose and unwind along the way now.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20). You're on a go slow now, one thing after another getting in the way slowing you down and frustrating you no end, even loved ones aren't playing ball, just bite your tongue and smile nicely as it will not last too long.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Time to get out of that rut you have found yourself stuck in just lately. You have Mars in Taurus egging you on and giving you the confidence to speak your mind, ask for what you want especially around the 6th and 7th of June.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21).

A time of extreme hard work, and don't expect much thanks for your efforts either but try to be happy with what you have achieved and pat yourself on the back for a job well done. You will reap the rewards but not just yet.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Whizzing round like a mad one, getting the jobs done in double quick time.

You're not in the mood to for delays, slow people or other's mistakes easily. Hold your tongue, if you haven't got anything nice to say!

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Out & About A Visit to Santa Barbara Castle, Alicante Coming on holiday as a family can be expensive but what people forget is the free attractions available including local parks and monuments, one example being, The Santa Barbara Castle Alicante, which is one of the largest in the Mediterranean region and from its position on Mount Benacantil, at a height of 166m, provides panoramic views over Alicante and the surrounding area.

Don’t expect tourist type gift shops and guides as the Castle is a low key attraction where you can take your time, enjoy the sun and the breeze or a coffee in one of snack bars with open seating or perhaps bring your own picnic amongst the pine trees.

Due to some steep slopes and uneven surfaces not all the areas are suitable for people with walking difficulties and because of the low level walls, young children should be supervised.

The restoration work which is ongoing really started in 1963 when the castle was opened to the public and in the same year, two lifts with an ascent and descent of 142.70 metres were installed inside the mountain giving the visitors easy access. These lifts are reached through a 204.83m tunnel with an entrance in Avenida Jovellanos, opposite Postiguet Beach, allowing you to combine a visit to The Castle with one to the vibrant area of Alicante Harbour with its beach, shops, bars and restaurants.

There’s really something here to suit all ages as every level of the castle offers amazing views with the east wall looks down to the beach. The mediaeval sentry boxes, attractions in themselves, watch over the Alicante Marina, while the cannons, always a big hit with the children, look out from the south wall’s little gaps to the stunning city below so bring your camera.

The present fortress is Muslim in origin and dates from the end of the 9th century. Between 1562 and 1580, in the time of Philip II, extensive reformations were carried out by Antonelli and Palearo.

The castle has three clearly differentiated areas with the highest part containing the oldest remains dating back to the 11th to 13th century, where you will find The Baluarte de los Ingleses (Rampart of the English), the Sala Noble (Hall of Nobles) and the Governor's House.

The middle level consists mainly of buildings that were constructed in the 16th century, including the Room of Philip II, the Cuerpo de Guardia (Guard's Wing), the Baluarte de la Reina (Queen's Rampart), and the Patio de Armas (the garrison courtyard), along with the ruins of the ancient hermitage of St. Barbara.

The third part of the Castle was added in the 18th century and here you will find the Revellín de Bon

Repós (an angular embankment) and the monument to the famous soldier from Alicante, Félix Berenguer de Marquina, who was a Captain-General in the Philippines and a Viceroy of New Mexico. This is where you will find the access road to the small car park and entrance to the lift. Also here you’ll find the exhibitions by local artists.

Getting there:

The Castle opens all day but the exhibition closes at lunchtimes.

Winter: 10 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm Summer: 10 am to 2 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm.

Sundays: 10 am to 3 pm.

For more details Phone: 965 15 29 69 Entrance to the castle is free and there is a small car park, to get there by car take the road opposite Hotel Maya in the Plá-Carolinas district. If you are feeling energetic you can park at the bottom of the hill and walk up the steep paths through the park.

To take the lift the entrance is located Opposite Postiguet Beach and the charge is 2.40€ but free for pensioners from the EU and children under 5.

This review is just one of the many included in the Our Property Guide rental welcome pack and for help with renting your property visit www.ourpropertyguide.com or call +34 965 319 743

Reporter The Costa Calida

Clubs

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

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RELIGIOUS SERVICES CHRIST IN YOU-THE HOPE OF GLORY CHURCH warmly invites you to join us for Bible based Evangelical Christian worship, celebration and fellowship every Sunday morning at 10.30. We meet at the Europa Building, Avenida del Pino, Pinar de Campoverde. (From Pilar de la Horadada take the CV 925 towards Orihuela. When entering Campoverde, cross the 1st roundabout and at the 2nd roundabout the building is just on the right). Everyone is most welcome-we are multi-national and there is Spanish translation. We also have dedicated Sunday School teachers, Youth Groups and Home Groups. Just come along or if you would like to know more please contact Pastor Joseph on 96 818 3984 or e-mail to info@christinyouministry.org or visit our website www. christinyouministry.org (Church registered in Spain as number 1456SG) LOS NIETOS COMMUNITY CHURCH Friendly, Informal, Evangelical Christian Church.

Services in English 10am each Sunday.

Alpha Centre, Avenida del Progreso 19, Los Nietos Viejos (Nr, La Manga Club) See www.aqua-adicta.co.uk/ alphacentre for more details and directions or call Miguel on 968 133 724.

LA SIESTA EVANGELICAL CHURCH is an ecumenical English speaking congregation of Baptist, Methodist, United Reform, Church of Scotland, Presbyterian Church in Ireland etc. We share the Church building at La Siesta, Torrevieja with three other denominations, holding services on the second, fourth and fifth (where applicable) Sundays of the month at 11.15am. Our Church belongs to the Iglesia Evangélica Española or Spanish Evangelical Church. Our ministers are Joel René González García MA and his wife Mayra Gómez Soto de González MA. Contact us by calling 96 670 0131 or visit our website www. lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org TORREVIEJA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP (TCF).

Lively services in English: Sunday 10:30am at the Asturias Restaurant, Orihuela Costa and Wed 6pm (Bible Study Service) at Calle San Luis 20, Torrevieja, Costa Blanca. More info: Web: www.tcf-spain.org WELLSPRING VICTORY CHURCH (part of Worldwide Victory Churches Int) 11am Sunday and Midweek Bible Study Wed 7pm at Apt Nati Bolnuevo. Join us for lively worship, sound Bible teaching, friendship and fellowship. More info Pastor Andrew/Wendy 968358750 or Duncan 607382033 /968130530 www.wellspringvictorychurch.com FULL GOSPEL BUSINESS MEN’S FELLOWSHIP INTERNATIONAL We are a Christian organization with a difference. Breakfast meetings for men each month including a testimony time, & time to ask questions for those who seek answers. Info: Stuart 968 575 417 or 664 673 863 FULL GOSPEL BUSINESS MEN’S FELLOWSHIP INTERNATIONAL (Torrevieja area). We are Christian organisation with a difference. More info: Stuart on 664673863.

ANGLICAN CHAPLAINCY OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, TORREVIEJA Serving the area from La Marina, south of Alicante, to La Manga near Cartagena. Chaplain:- All enquiries to - 966925905 Hon. Assistant Clergy: Rev. G Talbot, 968956536.

Canon T Sampson, 677237496 Rev. J Littlewood, 966763933 (All authorised for wedding blessings, baptisms and funerals – please phone 966925205 or secretary re costs involved) Chaplaincy Wardens:Annette Beagrie, 966722100. Joan Berry, 968193117 (also secretary) Church web-site:- www.c-of-e-torrevieja.com Lago Jardin – every Saturday at 6pm.

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Societies SEND YOUR DETAILS TO. info@reporternewspaper.com FAX. 968 163626

(closed August) Tel. Annette Beagrie, 966722100 Los Balcones – (and Sunday School) – every Sunday at 10.30am. (July/ August at 11am with no Sunday School) Tel. Casandra Hopkins, 965720673 La Marina - held in the RC Church at San Fulgencio,– every Sunday at 10.15am.

(July/August at 11.15am). Tel. Rita Bryan, 966795535 La Siesta – 1st and 3rd Sunday of month at 11.15am. Tel. Karen Miller, 965070197 Campoverde - 1st and 3rd Sunday of month at 6pm. Tel. Jill Dorsett, 966762715 La Manga, St. Teresa’s - 2nd and 4th Sunday of month at 6pm. Tel. Derek King, 968546866 OLIVE BRANCH CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. An invitation to join us at 11 am on Sundays in ‘The Centro Social Mercadillo’ at Cañadas del Romero for morning service and communion. A warm and friendly welcome is extended to all. Take the M603 past Camposol towards Murcia turn left towards Totana. As you enter Cañadas del Romero carry on for approx. 1 km, turn right for ‘Centro Social Mercadillo’, follow the road round to the right passing the white church. On left is the modern red brick building where we meet, ‘Centro Municipal Polivalente Cañadas del Romero’. For more information please contact pastor Ralph Locke or his wife Margaret on 968 199 622 or 618 720 181.

MID WEEK BIBLE STUDY. Every Wednesday at 7pm meeting at the TEA POT next to Mercadona Puerto de Mazarrón. Join us for lively discussion as we study the word of God followed by prayer and worship. Phone Pastor Andrew on 968358750 or 620599270 or www.wellspringvictorychurch.com ST NICHOLAS ECUMENICAL CHURCH, CAMPOSOL. Services held every Sunday at 10.30am at Calle Andalucia 9, Camposol A. For information contact Len Eaton on 968 138 952. The Church choir rehearse every Tuesday at 5.30. New members welcome. Contact Stuart Burnley 618 869 376. The German speaking branch of St.Nicholas Ecumenical Church meets at San Jose church in Puerto de Mazarron twice monthly. Webiste. www.st-nicholaschurchcamposol.com.

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY, Evangelical English Speaking Church,Calle San Miguel de Salinas 2, Corner of Santomera, Torrevieja. Sunday Service 6.30pm; Wed. Ladies’ Meeting 11am; Thur.

Prayer/Bible Study 6.30pm. All welcome. Contact Rev. Rafael Restrepo 660 127 276/ Info: 968 282 049 Pilar Christian Community Church Service Sunday at 11am, and Thursday at 5pm for Prayer meeting at Pilar de la Horadada at Calle Integración 7 (just off Avda de la Libertad, up the Ramble on the Terrapilar side). Home groups meet during the week. All welcome, from any church background or none. for further information contact us on 966763725 or 968575417 or by e.mail: PilarChristian. communityChurch@gmail.com CATHOLIC MASS Mazarrón area (Murcia) MASS IN ENGLISH is celebrated at the Catholic chapel of Pastrana. approximately 10 km. from Mazarrón. Directions. Take the Mazarrón/Aguilas road (N-332); pass the tunnel “Sierra de las Moreras”, arrive to a roundabout, 8 kms. from Mazarrón, and follow sign to Ramonete.

After roundabout go two more kms -you will pass the restaurant Los Cazadores on the left and you will see a sign to Pastrana on the right. Those from further a field are welcome, there is an excellent link now to Mazarrón via the new AP-7 motorway, from Cartagena and Torrevieja beyond!

Schedule of Masses. Saturdays, at 4.30 PM Schedule of Confessions.

Saturdays, at 4.00 PM For more information. Phone. 968 - 424386 or 676-219445, Shoreless Lake School, American School of Totana. (ask for Fr. Peter Escribano or Fr. Octavio Carpena) AGLOW INTERNATIONAL. For the BUDDHISM IN CARTAGENA. Contact Laura Sanchez on 636002034 after 7pm. Meeting every Thursday at 8.30pm. www.diamondway.org THE HOPE OF GLORY CHURCH (Church registered in Spain under the number 1456 - SG) Bible based

Evangelical Christian worship and celebration every Sunday morning from 10am to 12 noon at the town hall meeting room, Plaza Florida, Pinar de Campoverde, Pilar de la Horadada (behind the Sunday market and along the walkway from the Deutsche Bank and Peta’s Bar). 96 818 3984 or 96 676 3962, or by email. botwgo@yahoo. co.uk.

CHARITIES HELP MURCIA MAR MENOR has been operating for 6 years as a voluntary and charitable Association with over 300 members. We offer help to anyone of any age and nationality and offer a 24 hour helpline for any time that you find you have no-one or nowhere else to call. We can supply you with temporary orthopaedic aids and electric scooters for a small donation.

We supply up to date Fact and Information sheets about medical services, sudden deaths, and how and where to obtain residencias and padrons. We have a hospital visiting team, at present covering Los Arcos Hospital. We also can provide drivers when needed for medical appointments.

We have a number of on-going groups; Diabetic Support, Cancer Support, Friendship and Fund Raising, besides an active research Access group pertaining to everyday barriers throughout the area, such as high kerbs and bad crossings etc. which has Council backing. We are entirely dependent on volunteers, funds raised from charity sales at the EuroCine Car Park in San Javier on Weds. & Sats. and at special events throughout the year and ofcourse , donations. We do need to recruit new volunteers urgently as we are so busy. The office, which we rent, is based at Calle Conde Campillo 15 Bajo, 30720 Santiago de la Ribera, and is open Mon-Fri. 10-1.30 with disabled parking outside. We hold a General Meeting on the 2nd Tues. of every month at La Biblioteca, CISSMU, Los Narejos (except in Aug. & Dec.) at 12pm followed by lunch in adjoining restaurant El Torreon at 1.30. Our AGM is held in March each year.

Yearly membership is only 10€.

PLEASE FEEL WELCOME TO COME ALONG & JOIN. HELP MURCIA MAR MENOR can be reached by post, telephone 968 570059, e-mail: info@helpmurciamarmenor.org and our website is: info@ helpmurciamarmenor.org AECC PILAR DE LA HORADADA BRANCH (CAMPOVERDE). We are an English speaking group in Pinar de Campoverde with a Help Desk open every Wednesday morning 1000 hrs – 1200 hrs (except Fiestas) at the Una Europa building situated on the second roundabout entrance to Campoverde, approximately 6 Km from Pilar.

Annual membership of €15 entitles you to free tests to detect symptoms of cancer for men and women. Please call in for more information or advice in the strictest confidence. Also visit the AECC charity stall on alternate Sundays at the Campoverde Sunday Market held in Plaza Florida.

MABS CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MAZARRÓN) - We are a group of people dedicated to giving help and support to all those with the illness. Information leaflets on all types of cancer & treatment involved are available. We provide volunteer drivers to take cancer patients to and from hospital/clinic appointments (we can also provide a patient escort if needed). We have several reliable, translators available. We endeavour to help allay any fears and concerns that may occur during and after treatment.

Emotional support and befriending is also available to patients and their families. If you are suffering from cancer and need our help please ring CANCER SUPPORT LINE 620 422 410. For any other information or queries please ring GENERAL ENQUIRIES 620 582 418 between 11am - 4pm Or visit our website www. mabsmazarron.com P.A.L.S. (Protection And LifeSaving) PALS is a registered charity raising funds for additional medical and lifesaving equipment for the medical services in the Mazarron area.

Come to Rumours Bar, Camposol, 11.30 am on the second Monday of the month for the

Committee Meeting. For information on PALS events go to www.pals.com.es or call President Ken (626 460 465) or V-P Pat (628 879 284).

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Fuente Alamo. Alcoholics Anonymous, an English speaking meeting Thursdays 7.30pm at Fuente Alamo. If you have a drinking problem and seek a solution come and join us. Contact 646 29 04 20 for details.

ALCHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Cabo de Palos; English speaking meeting every Friday, 7.30 p.m. If you are affected by alcohol and wish to seek help, contact 679 385105 for details.

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR. Help and support is just a phone call away Tel. 693 275 779 or 968 432 525 THE LIONS CLUB OF MAZARRON BAHIA. Meet first Monday of each month at ‘Rumours’, on Camposol ‘B’ at 8.00pm. For further details of these meetings and a variety of other functions, Please call Diane on 968 431 521, or Andrew on 968 597 554

SOCIAL CLUBS EX-SERVICEMEN'S ASSOCIATION OF MAZARRÓN District [ESAMD] Registered in the Community of Murcia with the number 8.694-1a The Ex Servicemen's Association of Mazarron will be holding their third Anniversary Dinner/Dance at the Hotel Bahia - Puerto de Mazarron, Thursday 28th May 2009 cost will be €18 for members and €20 for guests, entertainment will be provided by Lucinda. Times are as follows: 7.30pmfor 8.15pm. Entry is by ticket only, which are available from committee members.

Please contact either Bryan on 637 140 179 or Bill on 626209419 SACRED HEARTS SUPPORT GROUP - MAZARRON COUNTRY CLUB. We meet every Thursday morning, 11am – 1pm to read & discuss ‘Mind, Body & Spirit’ Books! The morning begins sharing our ‘life stories’ and enjoying a drink, then we dive into the book of the moment which you can guarantee always repeats what we’ve just been talking about! SPOOKY or SYNCHRONICITY! We then discuss what it all really means to us...and how we can put it into practice in our daily life!

We end our sacred time together taking GODDESS/HEALING cards...and enjoying a quiet MEDITATION! We have a couple of places for ‘likeminded’ friends to join us...Please contact Barbara Franken...Tel: 650796579 or Email: info@sacredheartsretreat.com http://www.sacredheartsretreat.com/ ADAPT. Clubs within a club! Would you like to have fun while integrating with the Spanish community? We are open to English speaking and Spanish speaking people from any area. We have cycling, walking and camera clubs. Try the skittles, that’s really good fun. The Singles Friendship club is a wonderful support group and is great if you fancy a Sunday lunch and occasionally a day or night out. Also we have a very good and active Environmental club. There are lots of exciting projects in the pipeline including the San Pedro Carnival. We meet at 11 o clock at the Casino Restaurant in the centre of San Pedro on the first Saturday of the month. For only 2 euros you can just sit in and see if you would like to join us. If you do, and we’d love to have you, that will be just 10€ for the year.

PILAR SOL CLUB Lo Monte Hotel.

N332. Torre de la Horadada. Programme of events: Computer group on Monday pm's starting at 3 pm, Whist on Mon Evening commencing at 7.30. Tuesday pm Spanish lessons. Tues evening is the Bridge Group at 7.30. Wed eve. is our 'club night' when we have Bingo alternating with Quiz, doors open 7.30.

Thursday Line Dancing starts at 7.30.

Friday 2 pm Art Classes. Once a month we organise a dance/social evening. At our functions there is a bar available or your can bring your own drinks and nibbles.

New members are welcome for only €5 per annum membership fee.

Tickets for dances are available from Thelma, Tel No. 965 720 984.

For any further information please ring our President, Trevor, on 966 769 655 WELCOME GROUP. Meetings are held at Mariano´s Restaurant, Camposol, Mazarron on the first Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. All welcome, no membership.

The Entertainment programme is available from Dragontours Office and Costa Calida Properties Office, Camposol. For info. on the Group please contact 620 105 179 between the hours of

11 a.m. - 7 p.m. (Mon- Sats).

LOS AMIGOS DE MAZARRON CF meet every Thursday afternoon at the Saladillo Vista Bar on Camposol A. Why not support your local team? More details at www.losamigosdemazarroncf.com, or call Mick, Tony or Steve on either 649285257, 634054419 or 650346611 PUERTO DE MAZARRON LADIES CIRCLE Meets every Thursday afternoon at the Hotel Playa Grande, doors open 1.30pm. Visitors and new member welcome. For information ring Anne on 669338885 or Linda on 616112879 THE NOSMO CLUB OF THE MAR MENOR normally meets every Wednesday at Roda Social Club at 7.00pm. We welcome you to join us in any of our non-smoking events which includes walks, daytrips, petange, tenpin bowling, restaurant visits, quizzes and dominoes.

We are a very friendly group with a wide range of social activities as requested by members, so come along and make new friends. For further information and directions email: nosmomarmenor@ hotmail.com or call 968 54 68 17.

THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL CLUB, TORREVIEJA. meets every Friday at 8.00pm at Los Arcos Rest., Avda Baleares, Torrevieja for an evening of friendship and fun including Bingo, Dancing to Simon Morton and a Bumper raffle. New members always welcome phone George on 966 784 376 or Tony 966 775 029.

MAZARRON FRIENDSHIP GROUP Are you lonely, do you live on your own?

Would you like to meet new friends? Why not join our friendship group and get out to meet new friends for organised days and evenings out and see new places of interest. The Mazarron group is Camposol based. If you are interested or need more information about the group please contact Len on 689 113 494. We are a sister group to a Cartagena group and we go out and about with them visiting places of interest all around Cartagena and Murcia ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, TORREVIEJA meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the Month at 12.30 in La Marina Bar, Torreta II. More Information and directions are available on our website, www.torreviejalegion.info.

Welfare enquiries should be made on 676141309 and for any other information Call Gill on 638512056. Visiting Members welcome.

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, LA MANGA meets at Julian’s Bar, Playa Honda, at 19.00 hours every 1st Tuesday of the month except July and August.

New and visiting members always welcome every Tuesday at Julian’s Bar 20.00 hours onwards. Car boot sale 1st Sat of the month at Playa Paraiso. Booters 5€ from 8.30am. See our website www. lamangarbl.com for directions and upcoming events, or telephone 691 98 27 24.

THE ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA BRANCH 1359 The Costa Blanca branch of the RAFA meets monthly on the third Tuesday at the Social Club at Cuidad de los Comunicaciones in San Miguel. Social events are also held on the second & forth Thursdays each month. Anyone interested from any air forces are welcome to join us for social and general meetings. For information please call; Noel Cork MBE (Chairman), Tel 966723451. or Walter Shatford (Secretary), Tel 686859441 or check out our Web Site. rafacostablanca. mysite.orange.uk ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION, TORREVIEJA. The Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at:- EL PARAISO BAR/RESTAURANT, AVDA. DE LAS ALONDRAS, BECISA LOS ANGELES, TORREVIEJA. AT 1730 hours. For further details, contact the Branch Chairman, Mike Wright on 966 722 450 or Secretary, Gillian Burden on 966 111 154

22

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Clubs

&

U3A TORREVIEJA Meets the third Thursday of the month at Los Arcos Restaurant Torrevieja. Learning and friendship for the retired providing educational, recreational and leisure activities for its members. Look at our web site www.u3atorrevieja.com or telephone Lyn Howarth 965329953 Penny Godrey 966116526 or David Evans 966723909 FRIENDS AND BUDDIES This is a social Club for people who find themselves living on their own in Spain, offering friendship and support.

We meet at EL Saladillo bar on sector A at Camposol on Tuesdays at 8pm except the 2nd Tuesday of the month when we meet at Los Galayos in Port Mazarron at 8pm.We also arrange trips and outings so if you are on your own why not come and join us. If you would like more information contact Ann Lambert on 968163758 or 628153329 or e-mail friendsandbuddies07@hotmail.com.

LABOUR INTERNATIONAL COSTA BLANCA SOUTH If you look at life from a left wing point of view and would like to meet others similar for information, discussion on UK and Spanish politics as well as social events contact Christine 966 784 720 or Alan 966 925 5059. Formal meetings 1st Thursday of every month at Casa del Pueblo, Calle La Paz, Torrevieja.

EXCHANGE MEET-UP IN CARAVACA - Programme for Saturday 30th of May 2009: 10.00 Welcome at Plaza Tuzla in Caravaca. 11.00 Discovery of the castle. 12.30 Guided visit at the "Fiesta museum". 14.00 Generous meal at local restaurant. 16.00 Promenade "Fuentes del Marquez". For more information and inscriptions encuentroslinguisticos@gmail.comor or contact Tobias on 676 422 158.

SPORT & LEISURE SCUBA DIVING DAILY, PADI Courses, beginners to Master Scuba Divers, Dive Club membership available, Tel: 645 657 094, www. divinginmazarron.com KRAV MAGA SELF DEFENCE CLASSES. Learn to defend against armed or unarmed attackers. Qualified instructor, classes held every Wednesday 6.30 to 7.30 in the Centro Municipal Las Claras. Cost 8€ per session.contactkravmagalosalcazares@ gmail.com LOS ALCAZARES DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB moves back to it´s summer venue at the Costa Narejos Hotel from Thursday 26th March. Play Starts at 6.30 pm every Thursday and caters for all abilities. For more information contact Margaret & Ron Odell 968575760 or romar.odell@ yahoo.co.uk.

BADMINTON. A group of English players play Badminton in Totana on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 - 8 PM and are looking for more intermediate to advanced players. For further information contact Ric on 680782076 BADMINTON in San Pedro. We play on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Pabellon Principe de Asturias, Ave. Antolinos, next to the new swimming pool, from 10.00 to 13.00 hours.

Beginners with plastic shuttles (informal coaching available), intermediate and advanced players with feathers. For further information call 651 483 809.

FLYING Club/Group forming in the Costa Calida region. Looking for group members, pilots and enthusiasts for flying and social events. PPL revalidation possible. Contact. Hans Beckler, info@flightfantastic.biz. Tel 671 90 29 29 FUENTE OLD GUARD GOLF SOCIETY If you are interested in playing golf at different courses and don’t want to pay ridiculous green fee amounts why not find out more about our society. Most of our members are retired and live around the Fuente Alamo area in Murcia. Contact the secretary Bob Daffon tel. 968598540 or e-mail chrisandbobinspain@hotmail. com.

MAZARRON BOWLS CLUB. The Club has its home green at the Sports Complex at Hacienda del Alamo Golf Resort – Exit 21 from the RM2 (A30) Alhama to Cartagena motorway or signposted from Fuente Alamo (2 Kms). The club is open from 10.am to 11pm weekdays with organised Club Days on Tuesdays and Thursdays and also on Sunday mornings for open rollups, coaching and other events. The club organises formal competitions and leagues, Club Championships, inter-

Societies SEND YOUR DETAILS TO. info@reporternewspaper.com FAX. 968 163626

club matches, charity and novelty events, and social activities. Hire equipment including bowls is available.

Further information and Membership information is available from the Secretary on 968 131 619 or from the website www.mazarronbowlsclub. webs.com.

CAMPOSOL BRIDGE CLUB The Bridge Club meets to play Duplicate Acol Bridge at The Pizzeria Trevi, Camposol Shoppng Centre, Mazarron on Monday 4-7 pm; Wednesday & Fridays 09.45-12.45. Info. from Barry 609925497 or Norma 650418887 RUBBER BRIDGE PLAYERS (Los Alcazares) required for a small circle of players meeting afternoons and weekends for Bridge at a reasonable level, 5 card Major players are particularly welcome. Please call 968 170 986 or 66 11 383 36 THE ART GROUP meets every Monday at 11.00am at Los Canovas in the Casa Cultura. The group is open to all abilities. For more information please contact Chris Leiper tel. 968 199 418.

EXPLORING ART at Los Amigos in Tallante. This is an established group happy to accept new members who are interested in experimenting with different media and looking at new styles of working. It is a 2 hour session (10 until 12), with participants bringing their own basic materials. Phone Annette for more details on 968 163 640 or 649 647 467.

SAN MIGUEL COMPUTER CLUB Meets on Wednesday’s 14.00 till 16.00, The Rendezvous Bar/Restaurant, Pueblo Principe, next to Villamartin’s Archway near the new Mercadona. For details and directions please visit www.jenter-group.com/smcc or call 966 791 656.

LOS ALCÁZARES DIGITAL CAMERA CLUB meets at 10.30am on the first Monday of every month at the CISSMU building in Los Narejos (Los Alcázares). Training workshops follow the meeting and photographic field trips are made to places of interest on the third Thursday of each month.

For more information call Trevor on 968 57 48 77 or Mike on 968 58 22 17 and visit our website at www. ladigitalcafe.webeden.co.uk 1 METRE RADIO CONTROL SAILING CLUB, we our now into our 2009 racing season, every Sunday from 11 am to 1pm at C.A.R. sports College in Los Alcázares. We now have 10 boats and want to expand so new members are welcome. Also ladies please come along and have a coffee with the other wives. We are also looking for a volunteer race officer, for more information call David on 968 170 870 or Richard 965 325 009, e-mail davidlees66@hotmail.com.

SHOESTRING DINGHY SAILING SHARE GROUP MAR MENOR, we operate out of the C.A.R dinghy park in Los Alcázares, and meet every Friday for a group day, with sailing throughout the week. While the membership is currently full we do have a waiting list and any experienced dinghy sailors interested in knowing more should, contact Brian Blackburn on 966 718 021, David Lees 968 170 870 or view the S.a.m.m w e b s i t e at. www. sailingmarmenor.com MAR MENOR SAILING ASSOCIATION MURCIA, welcomes new members. We meet monthly, the second Wednesday in the month at 11am in CISSMU, Los Narejos. Our activities cover boat owners needing crews, shared boat ownership, improvement of sailing skills including Spanish sailing tests and social events. See our website www.sailingmarmenor.com for more details. Contacts : Commodore Mike Wright sammcommodore@hotmail. com, Membership Brian Blackburn sammmembersec@hotmail.com, Webmaster michael.phillips@ sailingmarmenor GUIDING & SCOUTING, 5 – 14year olds, based in South Murcia. For more info either call 608 174 485 or email info@murciasur.org

MUSIC & DANCE COME DANCING at the Olympia Restaurant, Mil Palmeras, in Airconditioned comfort on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Wednesday's Modern Sequence and Social Sequence - non-stop from 8pm, teaching at 7.30 of one of the new dances.

Friday's Modern Ballroom, Latin American and Social Sequence - non stop from 8pm - visitors always welcome at all our dances.

Note:- No dancing during July and August - Contact Michael on 965 350 762 or 610 981 795 LATIN LINE DANCE sessions are held at Trevi’s Bar, Camposol from 11.30 till 12.30. This is a class where you do not need a partner and concentrates on great Latin music and basic Latin moves to improve fitness and have fun. Phone Annette on 968 163 640 for more details or to book a place.

NEW TAP CLASS – 10 week Beginners Tap Class for adults starts at Centro Polivalente, Canadas del Romero on Thursday 16th April from 8 until 9 p.m.

Phone Annette on 968 163 640 for more details or to book a place.

SEVILLANAS CLUB Sevillanas club meets last Sunday of each month in the Orihuela Costa Resort (La Zenia). Open to anyone who enjoys Spanish culture and wants to know more about flamenco and Spain in general. A social afternoon, integrated with mini shows from students of Raquel Peñas’s Flamenco Dance School, and a chance to watch or dance Sevillanas. For more information call 630 689 431.

LINEDANCE UNLIMITED. New beginners class Thurs 19.00pm at the Lo Monte Hotel,Pilar.Learn to dance and make new friends. Followed by improvers 20.00 and intermediates 21.00pm.

Further details and info on other venues, contact Gerry and Sally, 600362044 MIL PALMERAS JAZZ! JAZZ, JAZZ, Jazz fans meet every Monday night at 8pm in the Jazz Club at Mil Palmeras, held in the El Pescadito, for ‘live’ jazz of every style, played by top local band “Jazz Greats”. Experienced jazz musicians and singers are welcome to sit-in. A special ‘jazz supper’ is available! Details from Roger on 96676 2308.

THE ICENI DANCERS. We are a dance group who perform locally for charity and welcome anyone with a dance background to join us. We rehearse twice weekly and cover all forms of theatre dance. Info. Joy 966787918 or Jacqui 965323673.

ENGLISH FOLK MUSIC CLUB Our new home is the ROCAJUNA BAR at Las Barcas 1 Urbanisation, near Punta Prima. We still meet every Tuesday at 8.30pm and we still welcome anyone who wants to sing, play or just listen. Entry is free. We look forward to your company.

For more info contact Ian or Carol on.

968186656 or 676566090 Email. divesmith@hotmail.com CRESCENDO INTERNATIONAL CHOIR We meet every Wednesday at 6-00pm at Bar Oasis in Torreta 111, Torrevieja. Mr Lawrence Gee 966261663.

The sixty strong Choir is always happy to consider requests to perform its enormously varied repertoire of quality music at social or charity events anywhere – ‘Have Music, will Travel!’. Please contact our Concert Manager Sue Woodward, Tel. 96 678 4108. Both the membership and the music we perform are truly international and we would be most pleased to hear from prospective choristers of any nationality. The ability to read music is not essential, commitment, dedication and application are! If you are not sure to which voice group you belong, we will tell you. For further information contact Chairman David Snaith Tel. 650 841 736. We find great pleasure in making good music.

Why not share it, in harmony with us?

JUST BRASS. Rehearses Thurs 4.007.00pm at The Social Centre San Miguel (opposite the Post Office). Come listen or play along with us any time. Available for concerts, garden parties, etc to play traditional brass band music. Info: John Bawden 966 706 959/Tony Murray 966 789 965 www.justbrass.info “VELVETONES” TORREVIEJA LADIES BARBERSHOP CHORUS Meet at the Cabo Cervera Hotel, La Mata every Wednesday, visitors are always welcome at our rehearsals and we are still available to entertain at Garden Parties, Dinners, Shows, etc. Further information please telephone Elizabeth 96 572 7034 or Maggie 96 678 4139. Visit our website. www.velvetones.org SPANGLES. Have fun, make friends, make music! Ladies Barbershop Harmony Chorus Meet every Thursday from 11am at Centro Las Claras, Los Alcazares. Call for more information Anthea 968 334 527 or Lyn 968 432 525 or visit the website www.spangleschorus.com WEDNESDAY’S Modern Sequence and Social Sequence - non-stop from 8pm, teaching at 7.30 of one of the new dances.

Friday’s Modern Ballroom, Latin American and Social Sequence - non stop from 8pm - visitors always welcome at all our dances. Contact nos. 965 350 762 or 610 981 795

Following are the activities carried out in Centro Municipal Las Claras, Calle Helena 177, Urb. Oasis, Los Alcázares, CLAQUÉ (TAP DANCING)

DANCE FOR CHILDREN

Mondays and Thursdays 10:30 to 11:10

Fridays from 17:30 to 18:30

AEROBICS (DANCERSIZE)

Mondays and Thursdays from 12:00 to 13:00 Wednesdays from 11:00 to 12:00

PATCHWORK

TAI CHI

Tuesdays from 11:00 to 12:00

Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 to 11:30

CONVERSATION GROUP Wednesdays 17.30 to 19.30 English & Spanish

SPANISH CLASSES

YOGA

Tuesdays to Fridays from 9:00

PAINTING

SPANGLES (CHORAL SINGING)

Thursdays from 18:00 to 19:30 Wednesdays from 17:00 to 19:00

Thursdays from 10:30 to 13:00

Phone 968 170 085 / 334 560

CAÑADAS del ROMERO

Under the auspices of the Asociación de Vecinos All classes require an initial payment of 4 weeks on enrolment.

SPANISH - Tel: Antonio 680 753 819 Beginners: Tuesday Afternoons 15.00 – 16.00 or 16.00 – 17.00 or 17.00 – 18.00. Lower Intermediate & Intermediate: Thursday P.M. Conversation & Revision: Friday Afternoons. NEW Spanish for Business: GENEALOGY – Tel: 660 384 778 A block of four 1.5 hours classes - times to be negotiated.

SPANISH COOKING – Tel: 660 384 778 Two courses cooked by a local Spanish Housewife & eaten afterwards with bread & wine.

Husbands & wives welcome!!!!!.

Wednesday 12.00 - 13.30 “Not Strictly – Ballroom” NEW ADULT DANCE CLASS Tel: 655 421 120 Simple routines to suit the basic rhythms of the social dance scene. Learn how to whisk your partner round the floor gracefully. Non dancers welcome. Choreographed for easy enjoyment by a qualified instructress. Thursday 16.00 – 17.00 ART CLASSES - Tel: George 664 150 222 Tuesday 10.00 - 12.00 or 13.30 – 15.30 YOGA & PILATES - Tel: Wendy 630 288 978. Monday 18.15 - 19.45 Wednesday 9.45 – 11.15 Friday 10.00 – 11.25 & 11.30 – 12.55 PILATES & CIRCUITS - Tel: Wendy 630 288 978. Wednesday 18.30 – 19.30 PATCHWORH, CROSS STITCH & EMBROIDERY – Tel: Penny 968 130 866. Monday 11.15 - 13.15 Stitch something different.

GUITAR CLASS - Tel: John 628 232 936. Thursday 13.00 – 14.30 DOG TRAINING CLASSES @ the Social Centre 6 weeks basic training (over 6 months old) Puppy socialization (up to 6 months old). Fully Qualified behaviourist. Adele: 619 807 388 or Lisa 650 221 846 DRAWING CLASS - Saturday 10.00 – 13.00. Explore a variety of techniques & approaches to drawing through a variety of mediums & subjects.

Qualified Instructor. Tel: George 664 150 222 SEVILLANAS: Friday 20.30 – 21.30 8 classes with three Ladies from the Village. Taking Names & Numbers Tel: 660 384 778 The following short classes will run regularly.

GARDEN CLASS: One session of 2 hours on a Thursday Afternoon.

SPANISH HISTORY: Two sessions of 2 hours on a Thursday Afternoon covering the local area & includes visits to local areas.

GEOGRAPHY of SPAIN: One session of 2 hours on a Thursday Afternoon.

Looking at Life, Climate & Nature of the Area.

SUPERSTITIONS of THE REGION One session of 2 hours on a Thursday Afternoon. Traditional Issues surrounding religion & superstitions.

Plus places of Interest to Visit.

Tel: Antonio 680 753 819 to book your place on the above four courses.

MURCIA DANCE COLLEGE – Tel: Louise 655 421 120 Tuesdays Boyz Urban Dance17.00 – 18.00, Tuesday 18.00 – 19.00 age 5 – 10 years, Tuesday 19.00 – 20.00 age 11+, Thursday BBO Ballet 18.00 – 19.00 age 5 - 8 LADIES SELF DEFENCE CLASS Keep fit & learn how to defend yourself. Tel: Lloyd 666 201 379 to reserve your place.

NEW GARDEN CLUB Swap plants, seeds, mags. etc.

Contact Zoe 968 971 824 or 686 680 565 BEGINNERS ADULT TAP DANCE 10 week course every Thursday 8 – 9 p.m. Tel: Annette 968 163 640 or 649 647 467 SPECIAL SUMMER ACTIVITIES Louise´s Dance Workshops for Children & Adults, Antonio´s Special Local Interest Course, Wendy´s Summer Pilates & Yoga Course SOCIAL CENTRE & RESTAURANTE Now under new Management – come & try the menu, Meals, tapas,drinks & Al la Carte. Monday to Sunday Menu del Dia. To book Tel: 968 429 145 FIESTAS de SAN JUAN BAUTISTA Come & participate in our local village Spanish Fiesta.

Saturday 20th June Free Paella at 2.00p.m. followed by a Children´s Dance Display. Bingo @ 8.00p.m.

Dance & Disco afterwards.

Sunday 21st June Mercadillo in the morning followed by Children´s Games at 6.00p.m. & a Children´s Dance Display @ 8.00p.m. followed by Dancing & Free Garlic Potatoes & Michirones.

Wednesday 24th June 8.30 Mass in Honour of our Patron with Floral tributes. Dance & Disco in the evening.

The committee reserves the right to alter the programme & times – please check at the Social Centre.

SPANISH MERCADILLO (CAR BOOT) NOW RUNNING EVERY WEEK Proceeds go back into the Community. Organized parking 7.30a.m. start. No unloading before 7.00a.m. No trading before 7.30 a.m.

No overnight parking. Tel: Dave 660 550 022 PETANCA/BOULES CLUB - Tuesday Morning 10.30, St Nicolas Church.

Contact: 636 658 965 OLIVE BRANCH CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Sunday 10.00a.m.

Rev. Ralph & Margaret Locke Tel: 968 199 622 For up to date information http://CanadasdelRomero.blogspot.com or www.CanadasdelRomero.es

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

23

Food For Thought...

By Drew Ryder

The weather is warmer, the sun is shining and all of a sudden life appears more exciting!! Well for some it does. The weather can often play an important part in how some people feel. It can affect their emotions. (Or rather they allow it to affect their emotions.) For instance, how many times have you either said, or heard someone say, “It’s a horrible day” when it happens to be raining? Usually this sort of comment is passed when it is raining on awakening first thing in the morning, and or, if it has rained all day. This then leads the person who made the comment to have a generally miserable day. Why? Because of their attitude!

We often hear people moaning and groaning about all sorts of things, such as: the ‘current economic crisis’; about not being able to sell their property; about not being able to go out because of a ‘cut’ in their pensions; about not being as fit as they used to be; the list goes on……. I too have moaned at some point or another.

However, just as quickly as I have moaned, I have just as quickly stopped moaning and given thanks for what ever it was I was moaning about. Why? Simply because I do not like being on a negative downward spiral!

By now, most of you will be aware that I consider positivity and optimism as two of life’s great virtues.

Well there is a third. Gratitude. Adopt the attitude of gratitude and see how your life changes.

To explain using the examples above, rather than complain because it is raining and therefore adopting a miserable or negative attitude, give thanks for the rain – we need it to nourish the earth from which we feed – even in Spain vegetable and salad crops need rain!! By expressing gratitude we instantly change our emotive state, from a potential negative one to that of a positive one. It enables us to deal with all sorts of things in a positive and therefore beneficial manner. Consider the ‘current economic climate’, yes it has affected a lot of people, millions throughout the world, some negatively and some positively. “How come positively?” you might well ask! Now then, I’ll do my best to explain.

Imagine if you will a business man whose business has taken a slight or even not so slight downturn because of current economics. He has two choices (there are always choices in life). He could whinge and moan about how bad business is, and watch his business get worse (as he gets himself and his business into a negative downward spiral), or he can do something about it. Let’s suppose he decides to adopt a position of gratitude, by this I mean he actually realises how grateful he is to still be in business when other similar business have closed. On realising this, he ‘give thanks’, (expresses his gratitude and appreciation), for the fact that he is still in business.

This immediately allows him to feel good, by that I mean about himself and his business, which consequently enables him to see things more positively and thus adopts a better mood. From this positive state he can then look at ways in which to improve his business and therefore move his business forward. Even if he is not able to actually move his business forward at this time, he would be able to find ways of perhaps adopting a damage limitation strategy, rather than just ‘go down’ as it were.

Gratitude, thankfulness, or appreciation therefore is a positive emotion or attitude in recognition of a benefit that one has received or will receive. The business man’s benefit is that he is still in business.

Similarly, there are a lot of people who have chosen to live or to enjoy their retirement here in Spain. Initially

the pound sterling to euro currency exchange rate was for the majority of retirees beneficial in that the pound generated up to 1.70 euros in return. This over the last six to seven years has dropped to an almost one for one situation. Now in the main, people seem to have taken this on and adopted the meaning or attitude of ‘having pensions cut’. However this is not the case. The reality is that the euro has always been the euro in Europe and its value has not changed. Unfortunately for those who receive an income from the UK and because of a change in exchange rates, they suddenly appear to be worse off.

What has actually happened is that a level playing field has been created, in that the euro is just that – a euro.

Now if everyone who has experienced this happening was to express gratitude for the years/months in which they received a higher return, then the current feeling of gloom and doom within our ex-pat community would shift. It would shift to a more positive state in that there would be an awareness of ‘the good times’. It also opens up other avenues within life to be grateful for, such as; having ones health, a roof over your head, food to eat, clothes to wear, living in a country where the weather is better than in the UK, friends, family, free newspapers etc.

On the subject of free newspapers you are probably aware by now that things are changing with The Reporter Newspaper. This I understand is to be the last printed edition of The Reporter. However, all the news, features, everything else that we have grown to love, and more will be available online. Fantastic!! The very first article I wrote for this newspaper was about ‘change’. It is the only constant in life because things are constantly changing. My initial reaction was one of mixed emotions, until I stopped and gave thanks for the opportunity to not only have written this column but also to have advertised my restaurant business. (All this happened in a ‘split second’). Giving thanks or expressing gratitude immediately changed my state/ emotion of despair to one of excitement! Why? Because as a friend pointed out to me only a few weeks ago, the internet is the way of communication and information.

It is the way forward. How exciting is that?

Imagine my excitement when I realised that I could still continue to write this column and to advertise my restaurant business whilst reaching more people. Prior to the change I believe that the newspaper’s website has been attracting circa 30,000 ‘hits’ per month, a figure set to increase over the coming months given the great content that is going to be on offer. What a fantastic way of reaching a wider audience. What a fantastic way of moving the newspaper forward!!

What a fantastic opportunity for all the newspaper’s current avid readers to be ensured of receiving news, articles and information from their favourite newspaper – delivered via the internet directly into their homes!!

No more remembering to stop off somewhere to pick one up, no more getting there to find out they have all gone!

Added to which the news information contained therein will be completely up to date as there is no need ‘to wait to go to print’. The news can be brought to you daily as opposed to fortnightly. Now that is something to be grateful for, surely? “But I do not have internet access or even a computer,” I hear you cry!! All is not lost!! As I have said on numerous occasions, life is all about change. The key to accepting change is how you react to it. Be thankful you are a part of this life and are able to experience such change. My mum has said that in her

seventy years she has seen history in the making and advancing at such a fast rate because of change, that she doubts whether things will change as quickly over the next seventy years. Who knows?

Be a part of this exciting period of time and embrace the change, be thankful that you are a part of it, become part of it and learn to use the internet via the many internet cafes that are available. You never know you may end up having a computer of your own after all!!

Think of the infinite possibilities this would open up for you! – communicate more frequently with your family in the UK or even around the world. Accept the change and give thanks for it. Indeed take time to reflect on your life and give thanks for everything you have had, achieved or wanted. Yes wanted. Because if you had absolutely everything in your life what would you have to look forward too? So, “who do you give thanks to?”

The short answer is anybody or everybody you think deserves it. You might want to give thanks to God, to the Universe, The Virgin Mary, or the planet Mars that, really is your choice.

If you do not have any idea who or what to give thanks for, perhaps the following may be of help:

Be Thankful Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire, If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.

During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary Because it means you’ve made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.

A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles and they can become your blessings. ~ Author Unknown ~ Practise gratitude everyday, adopt the attitude of gratitude and see your life change. Right now I give thanks to Clare for bringing us The Reporter Newspaper, the printed copy, and for the opportunity to continue to read, advertise in and to write for an innovative news and information site that will be available on the ‘web’. I ask you to give thanks too, to express your gratitude, if only for the trees that will be saved!.................

Written and compiled by Drew Ryder BSc. Hons.

Drew is the owner and chef at Restaurante Los Amigos, in Tallante and is also a fully qualified Holistic Therapist (IHHT trained and registered) and an NLP practitioner.

24

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

GARDENER'S CORNER The Red Palm Weevil At the May meeting of Simply Gardening, Jonathan Pickles, a specialist tree surgeon working in the area, talked about the growing problem of the Red Palm Weevil , how to recognize the symptoms, and, more importantly, how to treat it.

Although a problem in many other countries, the weevil has only made its presence felt in the last 10 years, and although councils have fought hard to control it, is now spreading at a frightening rate across the region.

There are two main reasons why the weevil is taking such a hold – one, the symptoms of infestation can take three months to show, and secondly the speed of reproduction.

The Spanish climate encourages rapid reproduction, with a single female capable of laying between three to four hundred eggs every three to four months. This alone could lead to a rapid increase in population, but this is compounded by the fact that an insect reaches sexual maturity within 4 months, so the explosion in population can be phenomenal, given the right breeding conditions.

Several generations can co-exist in the same tree, with weevils in all stages of the reproductive cycle, leading to massive damage at high speed, and as the adults are capable of flying for several kilometers without stopping, their spread can be rapid and devastating.

One of the strongest messages to come out of the talk was the urgent need for immediate action, as one infested tree could lead to the loss of every other tree within the immediate area.

Councils are struggling to keep up with the number of incoming calls, and have stopped compensating tree owners for the loss of trees, diverting the funds into prevention, and the public are urged to contact the authorities immediately if they suspect a tree is affected.

So what are the symptoms?

A tree can be infested for several months before the symptoms start to show, making it difficult to diagnose infestation.

What do they look like?

The major damage is caused by larvae when feeding inside the palm tree. Females lay their eggs in between the bases of the leaves, or in the shoots. The emerging larvae attack these areas in particular and many of the most visible symptoms are leaf related.

• Straw coloured central leaves.

• Fallen external leaves.

• Foliage can appear to have been cut, as if by scissors • The leaves detach very easily, and there can be a strong smell and red secretion.

Palm leaves are impossible to detach by hand, so any looseness is a sure sign of Palm Weevil.

• Presence of fibrous masses – these are caused by the activity of the larvae, building cocoons.

• Generally heavy appearance of crown leaves.

The eggs are very small, and are hard to see, being only 1-2mm long, but once the larvae hatch, which are ivory coloured and pear shaped, they can grow to 5cm in length, although are rarely seen, living inside the trunk and at the base of leaves.

What to do if you suspect a tree is infested

Contact the Local Town Hall or Medio Ambiente offices immediately and tell them you have a problem with Picudo Rojo. They will either remove or treat the tree.

A second port of call is the a lady called Ma Carmen on 968 36 54 39 or 648 16 52 08. She speaks English and will register your problem.

The most sensible thing to do is immediately treat all palm trees around the infested specimen or trap- net it to prevent the pest spreading further.

Jonathan himself has many years experience working worldwide with palm trees and offers a full service to trap-net and spray surrounding trees, but anyone wishing to treat the trees themselves can purchase the chemicals via agricultural suppliers.

What forms do treatments take?

Trees are sprayed to eliminate insects housed in the crown of the tree and injected to kill the larvae and adult insects that are feeding inside the tree and at the leaf bases.

Spraying

Treatments should be administered every 6 weeks from the beginning of March to the end of November. Trees should be well showered, approximately 20 litres of liquid per palm tree is required. Jonathan recommends PUXIS, alternated with PROVADO JARDIN. He adds a little paraffin oil to improve adherence.

Injections.

Two injections are required, with 20 to 30 days between each treatment.

Dosage will vary, according to the diameter of the trunk, as well as the positioning of the injections. Trees need to be treated in spring and again in autumn.

Once injections have been completed, the capsules are removed, and the holes capped off with silicone to prevent re-infection. Injection requires experience and expertise, and it is wise to use the services of a professional to administer them.

Is there any way of preventing infestation?

Pruning sends out a very strong smell to the insect world and Weevils are attracted by the pheromones given off by a fresh cut.

It is recommended to spray the fresh wound with insecticide, and only prune trees that are being protected. There is no time scale recommended for pruning, trees can be pruned at any time of the year, but it is recommended that pruning be done once, and thoroughly, rather than cutting off an odd branch from time to time, as each cut made is likely to attract weevil to the area.

Council workers will only ever remove leaves that have gone brown, and will not cut unnecessarily.

Does the weevil infest all palm trees?

No. It is mainly attracted to the Phoenixes, these being the Canary Island Palm and the Date Palms. Rare reports have been made of Washingtonias being attacked, but these are rare occasions.

Our thanks to Jonathan Pickles for all the information provided during the talk. Jonathan can be contacted on 650 911 755 if anyone is concerned that their tree may be infested.

The adults are red, with black striped wings, a pointed head and vary in length from 2-5cm

Once full size is reached, the larvae weave themselves cocoons from the palm fibres, emerging as adult weevils. Evidence of this activity taking place are the fibrous masses seen in the crown of the tree.

Reporter The Costa Calida

The significance of palm trees in Spanish culture Did you know that a palm tree in the middle of nowhere signifies the presence of water, or that palm trees at the entrance of a house show that the inhabiting family are of Moorish descent?

We are so fortunate to have Antonio as a member of our group.

He brings local knowledge and a personal blend of history, folklore, custom and tradition to our midst, as well as a lifetime of knowledge and love of plants and agriculture.

He explained that the trees planted near to a house are the symbol of the origins of the family within.

This region if Spain is irrevocably linked with Africa, successive invasions and population movements defining the culture and crops of the inhabitants. We owe the terracing of hillsides, irrigation sytems, palm trees, pomegranates and figs to the Moorish inhabitants, yet once Spain became a Christian country, they were banned from practicing their religion, forced to change their names, and forbidden to produce the valuable crop of palm oil, as this was considered unchristian.

This area fell into disuse, lying between Andalucia and Almeria, anyone living here being forced to pay taxes to both areas, and it wasn’t until 300 years ago that an amnesty was declared and Fuente Álamo was created, land being given away free to anyone prepared to move here and farm in the region.

Families took up residence in the area and declared their ancestry by the trees they planted by their homes, palms for Moorish descent (but practicing Christians now), olives for Jewish descent (but practicing Christians now) and pines or cypress for the new Christian faith.

Palms are irrevocably linked to the Moorish religion, and this explains why there are never palms in cemetries or by religious centres.

Antonio runs wonderful courses to help English integrate into the Spanish community, as well as teaching local history, customs and Spanish. If anyone would like to know more about his courses, he can be contacted on 680 753 819.

Simply Gardening News.

The next meeting of Simply Gardening is on Saturday 6th June, at 4pm.

Please note that the time has been changed to accommodate another local organization who normally meet on the first week of the month. This is a special one-off meeting, with a UK horticulturalist talking about all the little tricks Mediterranean plants use to survive the extremes of summer heat, torrential autumn rains and the devastating hot winds that can cause so much damage to plants.

Another date for your diaries is Sunday the 19th July. The RHS have invited all affiliated societies to share a meal together in celebration of the spirit of community gardening. We’ve got something special planned for all those wonderful people who have taken part in the community gardening schemes that have spread throughout our community, so keep an eye on the website at www.simplynetworking.es for the details as they emerge, and put the evening of the 19th July in your diaries NOW. Simply Gardening is a friendly, local gardening group who come together monthly for a cup of tea and a bit of cake, and to swap plants, seeds and cuttings, share knowledge and learn about gardening in the Spanish climate.

Each month members receive an e-mag full of hints and tips about gardening in Spain, and have access to discounts in local garden centres, the RHS members advisory service and the members only information on the Simply Gardening area of our website. We work together in local community projects and run free workshops to teach basic propagation techniques to community gardeners and arrange sponsorship for community areas.

All articles supplied by Simply Gardening

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

25

26

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

TRAVEL

Almeria

Gateway to Africa

By Sylvia Anne Grant Almeria – Andalucia’s easternmost province, is its sunniest with over 3000 hours of sunshine a year. It’s also the most parched area of Spain, with large expanses of rocky desert, particularly east of Almeria city. Its bizarre landscape a little way inland has been the location for dozens of “Spaghetti Westerns” such as “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” in the 1960’s and 1970’s, as well as for the film “Laurence of Arabia”.

Devastated by an earthquake in 1522, Almeria only began to recover in the nineteenth century. (I have recently learned that during the nineteenth century many people from Almeria flocked to La Union to work in the mining industry). Isolated and for a long time impoverished and forgotten, the province has used its main natural resource – sunshine - to stage a bit of a comeback in recent decades, partly through tourism and partly through intensive cultivation of vegetables, fruit and flowers.

Almeria is a city of light open to the Mediterranean, whose recent growth has not taken anything away from the local colour of its older quarters nor from the flavour of nearby Africa. Abdal Rahman III founded the city of Almeria during the Caliph period (tenth century). It was the chief port and later became wealthy on the textile industry which wove silk from the silkworms of the Alpujarras. At the present day ferry port there are regular sailings to Melilla and Nador (Morocco).

Our first “port of call” was to the very helpful Tourist Office situated at the Parque Nicholas Salmeron. Armed with maps, brochures and useful tips, we set forth to explore the city. First stop was the colossal Alcazabar, the large fort dominating the city and the chief reminder of Almeria’s distant heyday. Dating from A.D. 995, it was the largest fortress built by the Moors in Spain. In the eleventh century Almeria was an independent kingdom and the wealthiest and most commercially active in Spain. Entrance to the Alcazabar is free on production of your European passport. Open all week except Mondays.

The Alcazabar consists of three compounds. The lowest, the Premier Recinto, is mainly gardens which originally served as a military camp and a refuge for the population in times of seige.

The Segunda Recinto was the heart of the Alcazabar. By the wall at the east is the San Juan Chapel which was converted from a mosque by the Catholics who took Almeria in 1489. On the north is the Muslim rulers’ palace, the Palacio de Almotaci.

The Ventana de Odalisia (Concubine’s window) gets its name from a slave girl, who, according to legend, jumped to her death after her Christian prison lover had been thrown from the window when caught trying to escape. The Tercer Recinto, at the northwest end of the Alcazabar, is a fortress added by the Catholic Monarchs. It is in much better shape than the rest of the Alcazabar probably because its sturdy stone walls proved more earthquake resistant. Right by the Alcazabar is La Chanca, which is the old gypsy and fishermen’s quarter.

Next the Cathedral in the heart of the old part of the City.

After Almeria’s main mosque was wrecked by the earthquake of 1522, work on the present building began in 1524 under the direction of Diego de Siloé, who designed the nave and the high altar in Gothic style. The Renaissance façade and the carved walnut choir stalls are by Juan de Orea. The Cathedral with its four towers, thick walls and small windows, is open Monday to Friday 1000 – 1630 and Saturday 1000 – 1330. Other places of interest are the Aljibes Arabes (an underground rainwater collection system), the Museum of Art and the Olive Oil Museum. Wander through archways to the Plaza Vieja, an attractive seventeenth century arcaded square, to see the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) with its cream and pink façade, which was built in 1899, then take a look at the beautiful old railway station constructed in 1902, which is

Mini Hollywood now closed as adjacent is the new Estacion Mondal which is a combined railway and bus station. Whilst in that area you will see the Cable Ingles, the old mineral loading dock. The fairly new Museo Arqueologico contains a good collection of important artifaxes from the prehistoric site at Los Millares, which is about 17 kilometres north of Almeria near Gádor and is one of Europe’s most important examples of a Copper Age Settlement.

All in all, a lot to see in the city of Almeria. The centre is smart, teeming with fashionably dressed and well-heeled people.

There are plenty of restaurants and also many tapas bars situated in the old quarter of La Musalla where you can savour the local specialities such as habas con jamon (beans with ham), patatas bravas (potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce) and Jibia en salse (cuttlefish in sauce) and many more. We had a splendid lunch at the Club de Mar overlooking the harbour, although feeling a little scruffy in our jeans and tee-shirts amongst the smart Spanish Friday luncheon set!

Alcazabar

Tourist Office: Parque Nicholas

Salmeron Tel: 950 274 355 www.andalucia.org Hotels: AM Tarreluz Plaza Flores 5, 950 234 955

Campsite:

Hotel La Perla Plaze del Carmen 7, 950 238 877 Roquetas, Ctra. Los Parrales 950 343 809

Restaurants: Club de Mar, Playa de la Almadra Billas 1

(Seafood specialites) Rincon de Juan Pedro C/Federio Castro 2 Famous for tapas Golf:

Golf Almerimar Tel: 950 497454 Golf Playa Serena Tel: 950 333055 Golf Cortijo Grande Tel: 950 479164 Golf La Envia, Vicar Tel: 950 343419

Almeria Harbour

(We played at Playa Serena, a pleasant parkland course with nine lakes, seven of which have natural vegetation and birdlife, and then had an excellent lunch at the Clubhouse.)

Places to visit: Mojácar, Mini Hollywood at

Tabernas. Parque Natural

de Cabo de Gata Los Millares,

Tel: 677 993 404

Cable Ingles Copyright 2009 Sylvia Anne Grant

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

27

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ENTERTAINMENT Ancient Cartagena Walking Tours – 650 017 327 or 968 351 018 Flamenco La Tona 968 684 194 / 637 279 587 www.la-tona.info Pilar's English Cinema 696 632 098 www.cinemapilar.com

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28

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

Coffee Break

Solutions page 12

Crossword

Clues Across 1 Waste from coal mining (4) 4 Meat grilled on skewers (5) 7 A severance (6) 8 Supple (5) 11 To yell (5) 12 The smallest amount (5) 13 Laughable (5) 16 To impose by necessity (6) 17 The senior member of a group (5) 18 Filled with wonder (4)

Clues Down 2 A crossbred hunting dog (7) 3 Advancing by degrees (7) 4 A black cosmetic powder (4) 5 An allurement (4) 6 To augur (4) 9 Resistance to change (7) 10 A home of refuge (7) 13 Inanimate (4) 14 To act as instructed (4) 15 Unproductive (4)

Lost letters In each of these puzzles a famous or popular quotation fills the grid. The individual letters remain in their correct column, but have fallen out and are out of order. Reinsert them in the correct order to find the answer. Any punctuation is given in its own square.

This quotation is from Aesop.

FOUR-LETTER WORDS See how many four-letter words you can make using the letters in the name

BONAPARTE Each letter may be used once only in each word. NOT admissible are abbreviations; prefixes; proper names; poetic short forms; plural and verb forms ending in ‘s’; foreign and dialectal words not in common English use; slang terms; and words that might make Granny blush.

Today’s pass mark is 67 words: five beginning with A, 16 with B, two with E, five with N, one with O, 16 with P, 12 with R and 10 with T. Can you find them?

Word Search Coronation Street Characters

CLARE PEACOCK

LLOYD MULLANEY

DANNY BALDWIN

NATHAN COOPER

DAVID PLATT

NORRIS COLE

DEIRDRE BARLOW

PHIL NAIL

EILEEN GRIMSHAW

RITA SULLIVAN

FRED ELLIOT

ROSIE WEBSTER

HAYLEY CROPPER

SHELLEY UNWIN

KEITH APPLEYARD

STEVE MCDONALD

KELLY CRABTREE

SUNITA ALAHAN

KIRK SUTHERLAND

VERA DUCKWORTH

Sudoku Place a number from 1 to 9 in each empty cell so that each 3x3 block, column, and full row includes each of the numbers from 1 to 9 only once.

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

On Spanish soil...

by Dawn Llewellyn-Price

‘Every silver lining has its dark cloud.’ Sophie Levinson

Possessing a wild imagination can be a curse.

It must have come from somewhere; -maybe those teenage days when ‘borrowing’ the latest ‘Reader’s Digest book of the Month’ from my parents to read surreptitiously beneath the duvet with torch, whilst simultaneously listening to Emperor Roscoe on Radio Luxembourg. Often that book would be a Dennis Wheatley such as the ‘Black Magic Omnibus’- a three for one with such mind benders as the ‘Devil Rides Out’, ‘To the Devil a Daughter’ and the exotic ‘Strange Conflict’. How easy to be swept away by his descriptive prose and dangerous edicts inside the covers to; ‘Beware of becoming involved in the black arts, there is a real and present danger’.

Or something along those lines.

Things haven’t improved much. With a later progression to spooky tomes by Phil Rickman and Dan Brown in similar if more modern vein, and with Angels and Demons (my favourite Dan Brown) hitting the cinemas as we hit the Bay of Biscay, my regret of the month was being unable to see it on the big screen in English before we left the UK. Tom Hanks dubbed in Spanish would not be Tom Hanks. I had hoped the ‘Pride of Bilbao’ with its two cinemas would have it on offer, or at the very least Star Trek, but no luck.

That’s where the vivid imagination kicked in. The day we left for Portsmouth and the two nights crossing to Spain, the UK’s Swine Fever booklet arrived. With the urgent need to finish loading the car, it remained unread until reaching English soil, over the bridge.

I perused whilst Virgo-man drove, digesting all the info the government feels we need. We had it in Welsh, too.

Nothing like choice, is there? Flip it over and read it backwards. Hardly a lengthy expose, but best kept handy in the passenger door, just in case.

We made Portsmouth with ease, no traffic, sat-nag working. The pleasure of cascading overnight bags on the cabin beds was huge. If only the mattresses were thick enough to bounce on. No more work, except the clearance of Sahara dust and weeds, or the occasional pushing of a vacuum cleaner if the mood or visitors descended. Two days on the lounger, I had warned Virgo-man, don’t even expect me to wash a dish until the two days are up. Nada.

Fool. Yo soy tonta!

P&O’s Pride of Bilbao for those who haven’t sailed on her, is a fair old barco. Tough and due for retirement, she started life as the M S Olympia sailing for the Viking line in Scandinavian waters. Bearing a chequered history, with a freak wave once taking out the Bridge, including an undetected collision with a yacht involving three fatalities. But the ship offers entertainment, nightclub, bingo (the Foxy birds were on board), a couple of aforementioned cinemas, whale and dolphin watching, plus a Langan’s Brasserie and other restaurants, so there’s plenty to do before docking in the Basque Country. First stop is usually the duty free shop where time is spent on knees in abeyance to the reduced cosmetics placed at floor level and stocking up only with those deemed essential. Usually half a dozen.

A full day ahead at sea, reading, chilling, listening to the singer/pianist in the Posh Bar, hiding from the saleswoman in the handbag shop as she pounces hoping I’m going to buy yet another ‘Guess’ creation, (great memory but not this year, thanks) before a hearty shower, hair wash and twenty minutes upside-down under the hand-drier in the public loo; no hairdryer in the cabin, mine left in car. No return to vehicles after sailing.

Result? Spectacular. Compliments abound.

Note to self; must get hand drier installed at home.

Then ‘To the trough’.

The Carvery, for little more than fifteen quid a mouth seldom disappoints, depending on sea-state, and whether or not we are still speaking. Following this, we are usually ready for bed, exhausted, after all, it is 10 p.m. and we leave carousing till dawn to those with tattoos and 800 fags tucked under arms, partaking of the mini-cruise.

It all began with Virgo-man and that strange cough, followed by vomiting in the early hours. Force 6, both.

He swore it wasn’t seasickness, but I’m not convinced.

By the time we are rudely awakened by the First Officer telling us that all passengers should get-the-hellup-we-dock-at-08:00, he’s not feeling so good. Coffee and a walk on deck means he can drive us onto rainy Spanish soil and head for the first pit-stop two hours out of Bilbao, where we swap seats (and tales with fellow Brits on the same mission) and pray for a decent drive down, unlike last year’s lorry-striking-divertedinto-Madrid-without-a-map stresscapade.

We arrive to sunny Murcia skies at 6.20 p.m. Quick stop at the supermercado for essentials and it’s time to rattle the chains on the gates, overthrow Fort Knox fortifications, peel back the creepers and eject any earwig rallies.

It’s a day later that I begin to feel ill. Imagination ratchets up a notch. For two days I am Vampyre, shrouded in black nightdress, black dressing gown, despising sunlight, asleep in coffin-dark bedroom, watching deep, dark videos (Frasier, Veronica’s Closet) with only my minion serving me. As I retreat into my Gothica, visions swirl. Men in shiny suits with breathing apparatus patrol the terrace; I am swabbed and tested; I am victim. Dracula eyes dream of savaging pork chops, while my mind eviscerates the evidence.

Virgo-man has flown home in a metal tube with 50 people plus germs from Scotland, land of the first confirmed cases. He landed at Heathrow, along with thousands of people from the virus ridden far flung corners of the Earth, and has walked amongst them; drifting through their infested auras, entered another tube with further carriers, headed for Paddington station and a connection to Wales taking at least two and a half hours entombed in a fresh-air-free environment. Sitting among the damned; breathing their manifestations, welcoming their harbingers.

Donating them to me. I am doomed, doomed…

Then Enrique’s concert three days later. 5,000+ voices spraying their hearts out in a boiling auditorium, the perfect temperature for speedy infection. Could it be Enrique himself, had his tour taken in Mexico? The imagination ran riot. As Lloyd Grossman oft said; ‘Let’s look at the clues’.

The Swine Flu booklet; the article on ‘Death in Spain’ in the magazine found in our cabin; the ‘Russia Today’ programme advising its citizens to avoid Spain; It was all inter-linked, a web of warnings. Six steps from Kevin Bacon. Who should I call? Ghostbusters? UK helpline? The Association of Pig Farmers? Should I get Oinkment? Would I have it for WEEEEks? Trouble was, Virgo-man was fine.

Slight cough, but up and at it; de-weeding, shopping, providing succour for the sick and generally waltzing about the place smiling as the sun shone on his world.

By day three my demons were fading slightly and the four horsemen had stopped circling and retreated to a far corner of the room, muttering amongst themselves, sipping claret from goblets while their horses pawed the tiles with boredom. The guy in the dark cloak with scythe had mucked in a bit and was helping Virgo-man tackle the ground cover plant out back.

Marginally better, I phoned a friend.

‘It’s the drive, you know, the crossing, the packing, the closing up at home, it takes it out of you. All the men do is put petrol in the car. I was on the sofa for a week after we arrived’.

Wise words. I delved back into last year. Exact same scenario; two days in bed with box of panuelos and dark glasses, henceforth known as ‘Hitting the wall’.

Overnight bag in cabin = total collapse. Only one solution, give in and grab a book. First one to hand?

Ah, that’ll be an unopened, freshly donated Phil Rickman.

Title?

‘To Dream of the Dead.’

Hasta pronto indeed…..

Aurora Copyright 2009 Dawn Llewellyn-Price

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Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

The Journey to La Huerta

Southwest Scotland to sunny Spain

by Liz Edmiston Continuing our story of one family’s relocation to Murcia.

Liz Edmiston is a freelance writer and also runs 2 businesses here in Spain. VillaFinders Costa Calida, offer property search and relocation services for clients moving from the UK to the Costa Calida. OwnersAway offer property management, rental and letting services in the region. For details on all these services, call Liz on 691977107 or check out the websites www.villafinderscostacalida.com and www.ownersaway.com

But inevitably, we have also shared in each others problems, whether weighty matters or otherwise, offering advice and support through difficult moments.

And so I’m going to use this column to say a big well done to all those who have passed through the doors and achieved their personal goals, and a huge thank you to my lovely team of helpers who made the meeting run smoothly and professionally with me each week.

Aurora, Pat, Jan, Jean... you have been invaluable members of the team and I certainly couldn’t have done it without you! And let’s not forget those “hidden heroes”, the husbands, who have carried boxes and trekked up and down stairs in an effort to save our lovely legs!

This edition of the paper sees a special column for me, and a departure from our normal tall tales of life in Totana.

This week, on June 3rd, I hung up my scales as a Weight Watchers Leader after a year in the job, mainly so that I can focus more energy into my growing property rentals and management business.

But what a tough decision to make! And the reason?

My lovely members, who travel from far and wide to attend their meeting each Wednesday, and who have made the job a real pleasure.

Along the way we have shared a lot of laughs and shed a fair few tears. Mainly tears of joy, I hasten to add, as we share in the success of those who have reached their goal weight and achieved their dreams of being slimmer and healthier than before.

I can’t possibly mention all the people who have succeeded since we opened the meeting doors last June, but you all know who you are.. so well done, keep up the good work and I wish you all continued success in achieving your goals.

As for me, well, stocking up with fruit and veg at the weekly market will once more be on the cards, time permitting.. and I have to confess that this is the only job that I have ever done that left me 10kg lighter when I quit!!

Next time: A hole in my shoe..

OwnersAway Property Rentals New Properties for May 3 bed, 2 bath duplex in Bolnuevo. Secure gated complex with communal pool & gardens. Short term from 200€ pw. Long term considered from 600 pcm plus utilities. 5 mins from beach.

New 3 bed, 2 bath villa on Res Espuña, Totana.

Garden with 8m x 4m pool.Fully fitted kitchen Short term from 200€ per week low season, long term around 600 pcm plus utilities.

Country finca near Librilla, 3 bed, 2 bath sleeps 6. Tastefully renovated, lovely pool & terraces. Close to local amenities.Contact us for short term rates, longer lets considered.

TENANTS: Call us for more information on our rental properties or check out the full range on www.ownersaway.com OWNERS: We currently need more good quality, short term rental properties with pools. If you’d like better exposure for YOUR rental property, call us for an informal discussion. We cover the Mazarrón area, Country Club, Camposol, Condado de Alhama and Inland Murcia.

Contact Liz on 691977107 or send us an email at: info@ownersaway.com

Recipes from La Huerta Liz Edmiston is a keen cook with a special interest in healthy food for children. For comments and feedback, or to request recipes (vegetarian, special diets, etc) for future columns, please email Liz on. info@ villafinderscostacalida.com

Almond Toast This unusual recipe is great for a mid morning snack, or a sweet suppertime treat.

Use wholemeal bread if you prefer, or a nutty multi-grain loaf for more texture and flavour.

Ingredients (serves 2) 4 thick slices of bread 50g ground almonds 35g icing sugar 1 egg white, lightly beaten 1 tbsp rum (optional)

Method 1) Toast the bread on one side only.

2) Combine the almonds and icing sugar in a bowl and stir together.

3) Add the egg white and mix into a smooth paste.

4) Spread the almond paste onto the untoasted side of the bread and then lightly toast until crips and brown.

5) Enjoy with a cup of tea!

The best bread to use is a crusty, unsliced loaf. That way you can make the slices thick and chunky, around 1cm thick. The rum is optional, so this sweet snack is suitable for the kids too, but it is fairly high in calories and sugar, so it’s best saved for an occasional treat.

Reporter The Costa Calida

5th June 2009 • www.reporternewspaper.com

31

To advertise your property or car with The Reporter Online call 902 907 324 today!

PROPERTIES & MOTORS STILL TRYING TO SELL YOUR PROPERTY OR CAR? FOR SALE extensive family home for sale or development on

a plot of 1379 sqms. 184 sqm detached village house. 5 bed, 1 bath, & 2 wet rooms. Las Canovas, Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain. Lounge, dining room, kitchen. 81 sqm walled courtyard, hot &cold air con, separate garage & off road parking for 4-5 cars. 20 mins drive to new airport at Corvera (opening 2010) Mains water & electric & land line phone. €335,000, sensible offers only, plus tax. Further details call 0034 656-332-448 Further details www.reporternewspaper.com FOR SALE. Quad Bungalow, 2 bed, 1 bath, drive, pretty matured garden, large solarium, close to beaches of Cabo Roig, Campoamor, Playa Flamenca and La Zenia, 3 golf courses/ Torrevieja nearby. New urbanisation Lomas de Cabo Roig, Orihuela Costa. 20 mins Murcia airport, one hr to Alicante airport. Shops, bars etc on site, communal pool nearby, sea 1/2 a mile. Price €148,000 or near offer. For further details Tel: 966 116 760 or mobile (0034) 637 897 097. Further details www.reporternewspaper.com. Ref: 01-220509

FOR SALE/FOR LONG TERM RENT. Lovely country house, near Tallante (between Cartagena/Mazarrón). Character & impressive scale set in almond and olive trees. 5 bed/2 bath, huge sitting room - log burner. Alarm system, oil fired central heating throughout. Landline telephone and ADSL connected, mains electricity & water. 8x4 pool. Outbuildings. Make wonderful family home/be converted to small rural hotel.

330,000€. Rental 850€ per month + bills. Tel. 606 814 279.

Further details www.reporternewspaper.com RF03-220509

FOR RENT. Apartment situated in Hacienda Golf

Resort close to Sucina. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, underground parking, air-conditioning and a very large corner terrace with views of a fantastic swimming pool and golf course. Nicely furnished, basically brand new. Long term let available, 500€ including bills. Telephone 678 094 393. Further details

www.reporternewspaper.com.

Ref: 01-220509

FOR SALE. First floor 2 bed apartment on Polaris World Condado de Alhama Resort. Full size solarium, communal pool and surrounded by mountain views.

Easy walking distance to golf, shops and sports facilities.

Furnishings and fittings of highest quality, included in price of €128,000. Tel: 680553903 Further details www.reporternewspaper.com. Ref: 01-270309

FOR SALE. El Alamillo, Puerto de Mazarrón 2 bedroom

ground floor apartment, approximately 25 minutes walk from Puerto de Mazarron. It is part of a complex of 24 properties surrounding a swimming pool. Beach is 5 minutes walk. Front and back terrace. Allocated parking. Fully furnished. Offers of around 120,000 euros are invited. Tel: 0044 1623 551 054. Further details

www.reporternewspaper.com.

Ref: 02-270309

FOR SALE. La Manga del Mar Menor. Spacious furnished

apartment finished to a very high standard, situated on the second floor of the Las Gondolas Complex, with views of Mar Menor and the Mediterranean. 3 beds, 1&1/2 baths, lounge/dining room, kitchen and utility room. Balcony, swimming pool. White goods included. Price: 140,000 €. Tel. Spain 664 69 20 25 - UK - + 44 790 503 9951 Further details www.reporternewspaper.com Ref: 01-240409

FOR LET. South Brittany, France. 4/5 bed holiday cottage/gite short/long stays –ideal stopover driving to/from UK - Spain. 2 bedrms & shower room/WC. Traditional Breton living room, fitted kitchen, dining area, lounge - wood-burning stove, TV/ video/DVD. Garden, a 7-metre pool in the summer, views. 30 mins from the Gulf of Morbihan, close to historic town, beaches, forts, forests & lakes. From UK: 01273 252108 or 07973 621637, in France on 0033(0)2 97 46 740 or +33 (0)631 721 760 Further details www.reporternewspaper.com RF02-240409

MITSUBISHI CHALLENGER. 1996, 2.8 Turbo Diesel 4x4. Automatic UK plates (RHD) MOT Nov 09 120,000 km Alarm, ABS, CD player Black & gold colour 2,750€ Tel. 966 199 589 Mob. 634 147 636 CITROEN PICASSO SXTOP 2.0l diesel.

First registered in September 2005.

62,000 km.

Full Citroen service history.

Excellent condition.

7,995€.

Tel: +44 7702 588547

FOR SALE. A lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home set in a peaceful location, this property is south facing and has mountain views. Conservatory, summer kitchen, bodega, plunge pool, barbeque. Plot size 780 sqm. Mains electric and water supply, also an agricultural water supply. The property is located midway between Murcia city and Cartegena, 6kms from Fuente Alamo. 250,000€.

Tel. 00 44 7784 342230. Further details www.reporternewspaper.com. Ref: 01-130309

FOR SALE: Luxury house in Mar Menor, Santiago de la Ribera. Residential area.

345 sqm garden, courtyard ideal for dining, 4 bedrooms, 1 service bedroom, 2 bathrooms, chimney. Everything within walking distance. This house makes a great holiday or retirement home in the sun. 440,000€. Tel. 639 633 758.

Further details www.reporternewspaper.com. Ref: 02-130309 For Rent. La Torre Golf Resort Apartment. Room: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 shower room, 1 WC. Central heating, Air conditioning, TV, Video player, CD player, Telephone, Satellite TV, Wi-fi available. Balcony / Terrace, Shared outdoor pool (unheated), Private garden, BBQ, Shared tennis court on site, Childrens pool, Climbing frame, Swing set. FROM £150 pr week. Tel. 34 663 727 931. Further details www.reporternewspaper.com. Ref: 02-270209 For Sale. La Torre Golf Resort Apartment. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 shower room, 1 WC. Central heating, Air conditioning, TV, Video player, CD player, Telephone, Satellite TV, Wi-fi available. Balcony / Terrace, Shared outdoor pool (unheated), Private garden, BBQ, Shared tennis court on site, Childrens pool, Climbing frame, Swing set. £121,995 REDUCED. Tel. 663 727 931. Further details www.reporternewspaper.com. Ref: 04-270209 For Sale. 2 Bedroom Semi-Detached Home, Sucina, Murcia, Spain.

Surrounded by five 18 hole golf courses and just 2 minutes walk to the local shops, banks and bars this bungalow makes a great holiday or retirement home in the sun. The Lounge Diner: Air Conditioning / Heating, Integral Window Blinds, Bug Blind. The Bedrooms: Built-In Wardrobes, Winter Heaters, Blackout Blinds, Bug Blinds. Swimming Pool, Grill Bar, village shops & banks all within walking distance. Offers around 125,000€ Tel. 968 371 216. Further details: www.reporternewspaper.com Ref: 01-270209 For Sale. 2 bed, 2 bath apartment, due for completion June 2009.

Area: Albatera, sits on the banks of the River Segura, a beautiful spot with stunning views of the surrounding Sierra de Crevillent mountains.

The Church is famed for its impressive baroque doorway, intricately carved in stone. Has town plaza and Parque de la Huerta with fountain.

Price €127,907 inclusive of IVA. Tel: 680 787 277. Further details www.reporternewspaper.com Ref: 03-270209 For Sale. Los Canovas, Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain. Duplex, 140sqm. 3 Bed, 2 Bath, Lounge/Diner, Kitchen, upstairs sitting room with access to balcony. Air/ con and log burner, with ceiling fans in all rooms. All white goods and some furniture included. 2 mins from RM2 motorway junction, hence, Cartagena 30 mins, Mazarron 20 mins, Murcia airport 35 mins, Beach 20 mins. Views to mountains from both the front and rear of house. Price: 160,000€ e-mail: adogliketrixie@yahoo.co.uk Further details www.reporternewspaper.com Ref: 06130209

For Sale. LA APARECIDA, MURCIA, SPAIN. A 2 bed, 1 shower room detached villa in La Aparecida overlooking the park area. Open plan lounge/dining area & kitchen with a ‘living flame’ gas fire, A/C in the lounge. White goods are included in the price. A/C unit in the master bedroom. Domestic water is heated by a very energy efficient solar power system. Off road parking for 2 cars, pergolas to the rear. Land line telephone and English/Spanish TV are installed. There is a large communal pool. Price: 160,000.00 Euros Tel: 968 165 664. Further details www.reporternewspaper.com Ref: 01-130209 For Sale/For Rent. 2 bedroom Bungalow in Mazarrón Country Club, Price: €144,995. End terrace bungalow on a 215m2 corner plot in a quiet cul-desac. Fully furnished and all the white goods with dishwasher. TV. broadband, telephone, hot and cold air conditioning. Garden is gravelled - driveway big enough for a caravan and car. There is also a large rear courtyard ideal for dining. Rental is €350 pcm plus bills. Tel: 649 353 478 Further details www. reporternewspaper.com Ref: 01-300109 For Sale. TOTANA, MURCIA, SPAIN. Exchange considered UK. Fully furnished 1 year old villa high standard build on select quiet development. 3 beds, 2 bathrooms, 9x3 pool. Countryside views. Extra features including full airconditioning, central heating, alarm system, individual entry phone, TV satellite system, landscaped garden with auto watering system. All main services. Price: 273,000€ Tel. 968 429 965 Further details www.reporternewspaper.com Ref: 02-130209

For Sale. Lux. house on the seafront at San Pietro in Bevagna - Manduria - Italy.

200m to beach. 400m2 garden. Approx. 120m2 build + small apartment. 3 bed, includes white goods, bathroom with massage shower. 1 entrance terrace covered 30 square meters (ocean side). 1 terrace apartment. 1 60m2 courtyard with stone grill. Location close to amenities. Summer kitchen (part covered).

Bari airport 150 km away. Brindisi airport 50 km away (with Ryanair to all English/ Irish airports). Price: 220,000 euros. Tel. 968 58 27 97 or 654 56 82 58 Further details www.reporternewspaper.com Ref: 03-130209 For Sale. COUNTRY FINCA, MAR MENOR, MURCIA, SPAIN. The last of its kind. 3000m2 plot. Overlooking Mar Menor & La Manga. Views all around. Small community of about 20 properties. Fully reformed house and newly built self-contained guest accommodation separate from house. Electric gates. Air conditioning. ADSL. Completely walled and private. Price: 290,000€ Tel. 699 170 065 Further details www.reporternewspaper.com Ref: 04-130209

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