ISSUE 637 • 18th - 24th May 2018
EST 2005
Give a dog a home EXCLUSIVE Jose Artur AN Almeria animal charity has launched a desperate plea for help. The Amethyst Dog Rescue in San Juan de l o s Te r r e r o s h a s s i n c e last year been working to help animals from the municipal pound in Baza, Granada. The town hosts an annual horse breeders’ championship, and having heard rumours that dogs were being euthanised to make
way for the event each y e a r, A u d r e y Vo l l a n s decided to act. Speaking exclusively to the Sol Times, she said: “We started with foster homes and since we’ve been involved not a single dog has been put down. “ We w o r k c l o s e l y with Spanish volunteers, but what we really need is more foster homes and donations, since we’re currently paying around €1,500 per month to keep some
POLICE raids in Almeria and Malaga have seen five Irish expatriates and 170 kilogrammes of cannabis bound for Ireland seized. The drugs were found hidden in a 20-tonne consignment of lettuces after a lorr y was pulled over on the A-45 motorway linking the Costa del Sol and inland
PAWS FOR THOUGHT: Iris, left, and Molly are two of 12 puppies saved with their mum at two weeks old and are still seeking their forever homes. near Malaga. Some of the gang members identified were traced to Spain where they were found to be preparing the shipment. It took officers five hours to unearth the well-concealed stash, while the lettuces have been donated to food banks in Cordoba City and Lucena.
Tip of the iceberg city of Cordoba. It comes in the wake of a month-long probe sparked when the Gardai (Irish police) contacted their Spanish counterparts to warn of a trafficking gang operating out of Alhaurin de la Torre
of the dogs in kennels. She added: “At the moment we’re stuck in a financial crisis.” A u d r e y, o r i g i n a l l y from Guildford in Surrey, has been working with rescue animals since moving to Spain 16 years ago, but the plight of the Baza dogs convinced her to set up what is now an official charity. “ We a l s o h e l p w i t h dogs elsewhere and even have a coordinator in the UK, Babs Williams, who with secretary Anne Parker and treasurer Gillian Hassaine does so much
good work,” said Audrey, who is president. “People can donate via our website on the donate page or set up regular payments, just €5 a m o n t h f r o m 2 5 0 people would help us to cover some of our residence costs. “And if any local businesses are able to take our collection tins we’d really appreciate it.” Full details are available on the website w w w. a m e t h y s t d o g r e s cue.org, which has links to social media, or email amdrspain@ gmail.com.
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News
18th -24th May 2018
TERMINATOR IN TOWN: Locals are hoping to catch a sight of the actor (inset).
Arnie’s back! By Francis Peach A FISHING village will reportedly host a shoot for the new Terminator film. There has been a lot of movement in Nijar’s Isleta de Moro peninsular in the last few weeks, according to local reports. Wo r k e r s h a v e b e e n busily tr ying to erect a series of huts on Del Rin-
concillo beach in time for filming. Security guards are all over the sets and those involved are under strict instructions to keep things hush-hush. But locals are hoping to catch a glance of movie megastar and exgovernor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger. And it would not be the veteran action star’s first visit to Almeria.
In 2014 he visited its capital to collect Almeria’s coveted ‘Tierra el Cine’ prize and to uncover his name engraved in the city’s walk of fame. He will on this occasion be joined by American actress Linda Hamilton in the film directed by compatriot Tim Miller. Filming will reportedly begin on May 29 and last two days.
NEWS BITES
Recycled remedies THERE has been a 10.67 per cent increase in recycled medicines in the province at 331 Sigre pharmacies in a scheme which began 16 years ago, according to the most recent figures.
Bully claim A CHILD in Huercal de Almeria who claims to have been harassed by several students at the Cerro Milano de Alhama School in the town has gone to the Guardia Civil to report the allegations.
Sent down A DENTAL technician found guilty of advertising for business without having the necessary paperwork and qualifications in Roquetas de Mar has been sentenced to serve six months in prison by Almeria’s Criminal Court.
News
18th -24th May 2018
Meet and Crete MORE than 1,500 dancers came together to take part in the annual dance convention Levantate y Baila in Mojacar, organised by Hotel Servigroup. It is an event that draws in both professionals and amateurs of bachata and salsa every year from all over Spain and it has become one of the most attractive diar y dates across Europe for this type of dance, when Mojacar becomes the capital of Latin rhythms. The ongoing success of the weekend is borne out by the high number of participants after it was fully booked within a month, plus the presence of well-known dancers such as Versy and Rodrigo, Mambologia and Afro Flow, among others. For those attending, it was an exciting time of non-stop music, dance, concerts, performances
Photo credit Ayuntamiento de Mojacar
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GODLIKE MOVES: The event lit up the village. and competitions with workshops given by the on-site professionals, all taking place in the unbeatable facilities of the Marina Mar Hotel. The Servigroup chain started the event eight years ago, and this is the four th time it has been held in Mojacar. This year’s theme was Ancient Greece, with the spectacle
including impressive acrobats and fire shows that transported ever yone back to the time of myths and legends.
Poison trail INVESTIGATORS have seized illegal poisons and hunting equipment during raids in Almeria. The swoops in Albox, Dalias and El Alquian, near the city airpor t, come in the wake of a probe after eight dogs and a fox were found dead across the three sites. A total of 28 kilos of prohibited herbicides capable of killing animals were seized alongside traps, cages and other unlawful items, the Guardia Civil said in a statement. Detectives have now launched a probe to trace the owners after three air guns were also found at one of the locations.
News
18th - 24th May 2018
By Francis Peach GUARDIA CIVIL officers aboard an emergency chopper have rescued a man who fell onto his head while climbing in Almeria. The climber was out in the Sierra de Gador mountains with his partner and had set off on a solo lead climb when a rock became dislodged, according to sources. It sent him plummeting onto rocks four metres beneath and struck his head. His climbing buddy alerted emergency services who instructed him to keep the injured man warm and awake. The Guardia Civil then coordinated an emergency response team including emergency medics and fire-
PHOTO CREDITS GUARDIA CIVIL
Chopper rescue
HORROR FALL: The climber fell when a rock came loose. fighters and boarded a helicopter to the scene. And the aircraft flew over the area and found the injured man and his partner 120 metres above the ground on a rocky outcrop. Emergency crew were abseiled down onto the pair while the helicopter hovered 30 metres above. Rescuers found the man in a semi-conscious state with head and hand in-
juries, as well as severe hip pain. They secured the climber in a stretcher before he was lifted up onto the chopper by cables with one accompanying officer. He was then flown to Almeria’s Hospital Torrecardenas for treatment. The climber’s partner was later returned to Almeria by firefighters who were at the scene providing backup.
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News
18th -24th May 2018
€330 million plea THE centre-left PSOE party is asking for €330 million to reverse the rural exodus from Almeria. And part of the cash would go towards installing broadband internet, the party announced. Population decline affects 37 out of 103 municipalities, said PSOE’s provincial leader Jose Luis Sanchez Teruel said. The European Union classes an area with less than 12.5 inhabitants per kilometre squared as a ‘serious problem.’ The most affected areas are la Alpujarra Almeriense, Nacimiento, el Campo de Tabernas (Filabres-Alhamilla) and Los Velez. The first two have less than 12 inhabitants per kilometre squared and the second two only 10.
POPULATION PLUNGE: Velez-Blanco in Los Velez. PSOE’s funds would come from the state budget. They have asked for €80 million to forward a state repopulation plan and another €150 million to action a sustainable rural development law. The party also wants to spend €100 million on installing broadband internet across the countr y, whether “it is profitable or
not,” Sanchez Teruel added. His party has criticised the ruling centre-right Popular Party’snational budget as the “worst in recent decades for Almería. “We are not even sure if the PP want these towns to stay,” Francisco Garcia, PSOE’s provincial small municipalities official said.
Feeling lucky? AGE SUPPORT ALMANZORA, which has a shop and welfare office in Albox, is fundraising for a domestic-type hospital bed to help carers with bed-ridden partners. To achieve this goal the charity needs to raise €2,000. Cathy, President of the charity, said. Fundraiser Maggie has organised a raffle to go towards the bed appeal. Tickets are €1 each or five for €4 - on sale at the Age Support shop, Bar Lepanto, Total Entertainment and Harrisons - all in the Avenido Lepanto area of Albox. Maggie is delighted that volunteers
and local businesses have donated prizes including a food hamper, fish and chips for two at Bar Lepanto, gift voucher for SOL yoga centre and a classic manicure or facial. Call into the shop on the corner opposite the Peugeot garage near the Mercadona roundabout to view the prizes, buy a ticket and pick up some bargains. The volunteers will be delighted to receive other prizes at the shop or nearby Spanish Property Choice. Cash donations are also accepted. The raffle draw will take place on Saturday June 16, so you have plenty of time to get those tickets!
Take your praise AN International Praise Party is taking place on the Recinto Ferial (fair ground) in Albox this Saturday. Kicking off at 6pm, it will be an ideal way to spend the late afternoon in the wake of the Royal Wedding. Entry is free, with more information available by calling 631 529 452, 634 361 852 or emailing outlookesp@gmail.com.
News SHUTTERSTOCK/GUARDIA CIVIL
18th - 24th May 2018
Call to action THE President of the Cantabria regional parliament - Dolores Gorostiaga - has called for three men murdered by Guardia Civil officers in Almeria to be recognised as ‘victims of terrorism.’ She read her comments from a motion signed by 35 regional ministers yesterday (Thursday). It was part of an event to mark the 37th anniversary of the murders organised by the ‘desmemoriados’ campaign group. The bodies of Juan Mañas, Luis Cobo and Luis Montero were found ‘scorched, dismembered and with multiple bullet wounds’ on May 10, 1981, a Cantabria parliament institutional declaration claimed. Guardia Civil officers had allegedly mistaken the Cantabria residents for ETA terrorists. But the official account said the men were killed in a shoot-out after attempting to flee. Gorostiaga said the Spanish government should amend the law. She added all victims of terrorism, including at the hands of the police and far right, must be treated accordingly. Regional president Miguel Angel Revilla criticised the ‘rotten tricks’ used to cover up what happened. The Spanish government is yet to respond.
NEAR MISS: Couple approached by man waving ‘fake weapon’ while parked in their car.
‘Fake weapon’ shock A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of violently threatening a couple with a fake weapon as they sat in their car. The suspect, referred to only as LJMG, is said to have approached the parked vehicle head on, waving the hoax pistol and pointing it at the couple. “The person sat in the passenger seat left the car and ran inside a nearby property to ask for help while the driver got out and tried to calm the person down. He finally got into a nearby vehicle and sped off,” according to a Guardia Civil statement.
Police launched a search to find the suspect and car. They later found the man in a ‘very nervous state’ near the Gran Plaza shopping centre in Roquetas de Mar. But his vehicle and the suspected weapon had still not been found so investigators were sent to a nearby garage. They soon located the vehicle together with several rounds and a firearm magazine, with the weapon eventually recovered after the suspect threw it on the ground. The man is now being held in custody and awaiting trial.
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News
18th -24th May 2018
Comedy raises the roof By Chrissie Cremore WHAT does it take to entertain four packed audiences, create an amazing atmosphere of laughter, fun and frivolity and also raise an amazing amount of money for the animal charity PAWS-PATAS? The ingredients are: Shoestring Productions. They returned with the sequel ‘Return to Hotel La Resistance,’ performing four sell-out shows at Montmartre Bar-Restaurant on May 4, 5 and 6. However, this is not the end, since creator, writer and director James DaleGrey is wasting no time at putting pen to paper and is already planning another sequel which will bring even more surprises, giggles and joy. Shoestring Productions would like to thank all the
SIDE-SPLITTING: The cast of Return to Hotel La Resistance. people who came to support them and their cause. Proceeds from the play plus the raffles raised €811 which will go towards the fund to build a quarantine and isolation unit for the cats and dogs at the shelter. This vital building will help contain deadly viruses and allow the volunteers at the shelter to save these abandoned animals. To date €14,000 has been
raised towards the final cost of €25,000 required to build the structure. Recently The Rose Singers performed two concerts and raised €400 towards the PAWS-PATAS cat neutering programme. Next date for your diary is on Friday May 25 when The Incognito Singers will entertain with songs for everyone at The Ballroom Miraflores at Camping Los Gallardos. Just €6 entry
will provide the entertainment and allow you to also purchase their famous fish and chips. Tickets available from the PAWS-PATAS locales situated in Mojacar, Turre and Las Buganvillas. Proceeds from the concert will be donated to PAWSPATAS. For further information regarding volunteering and donating please visit the website www.paws-patas.org.
NEWS
18th -24th May 2018
Inspired by nature A NEW exhibition by British artist Laura Davies is drawing admiring glances. Inspired by flora and fauna around her ‘Earthship’ eco-friendly home built from recycled bottles, tyres, cans and even mud, she is raising funds for the Tiger Time Charity David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation. Laura attended the Berkshire College of Ar t and Design in Reading before moving to Spain in 2002. Speaking exclusively to Sol Times , she said: “For the main pieces in the exhibition I paint with watercolours onto tea bags then add to these using upcycled fabrics, hand embroidery, natural elements and antique lace. “I also use a process of positive intending - a bit like meditation with benefits - which I talked about at the opening. “As part of the exhibition at this venue there’s
Wonder women DAMES IN TURRE May Meeting will be held on Monday 28 at The Hostel Rural in Turre at 11am, where the speaker will be Christine Smith. Christine is the Author of A Tale of Two Villages, so please come along and listen to this talented lady. The Dames welcome guests so do come along. For information contact Membership Secretary Eileen McGill on 652 208 072 or President Lesley Barlow on 661 085 551.
ON TOUR: The exhibition is currently in Arboleas and will soon move to Mojacar.
also the chance to see a beautiful Indalo man weaving. “It was created by a group of local women, t h e w e a v i n g , s t o r y, agave loom and photos of its creation are well
worth a look.” The Art With Intention exhibition is at the Pedro Gilabert Museum in Arboleas until May 29, after which it will move to the El Fuente Gallery in Mojacar. Opening hours in Arboleas are Mon, Tue and Fri 10am-2pm, and Wed, Thu 4pm-8pm.
Mojacar Royal British Legion June Diary • Friday 1. 7pm Fish ‘n chip Night with quiz at Oasis Bar, Palomares. C o n t a c t B a r b a r a 622 207 774. • Thursday 7. 11.15am Artisan Centre. Branch Meeting. • Thursday 21. 11.15am Branch social/Coffee morning. Scotty’s, Mojacar Playa. All welcome. • S a t u r d a y 3 0 . 7 p m A r m e d F o r c e s D a y. Bistro at The Colosseum, Los Gallardos. Threecourse meal. Entertainment by The Silhouettes from the UK. Fancy dress optional with €30 of which €5 will be donated to the Poppy Appeal. Contact the Bistro on 950 132 022.
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Party of the year Ed. 637
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By Richard B Tolman ALONGSIDE 70 friends and supporters, FACE (Fundraising in Arboleas, Caring for Everyone) celebrated its 10th birthday on Saturday May 12 at Bar Kubatin, underneath the Hostel Meson in Arboleas. Guests were welcomed with glasses of orange juice, Bucks Fizz or Cava before sitting down to a meal starting with fresh salad, a choice of second and third courses and finishing off with a tasty dessert and a choice of wines on the table. Entertainment throughout the evening was provided by Barrington Dubois known for soul, motown and reggae, but he can sing all genres of music - who travelled down from the Va-
THE FACE COMMITTEE PLUS BARRINGTON: From left, Pete Martin, Lynne Dobie, Barrington Dubois, Pauline Marshall, Gilly Elliott-Binns (vice president), Carrie Ann Earl (president), Adele Wrigglesworth (founder) and Richard Tolman. lencia Region especially for this event and soon had everyone up dancing. A large, unique, cake was also baked for the occasion featuring the FACE logo and this was sliced up and shared by all present. A small aside of the
evening was a raffle of 10 prizes, some donated by sponsors of FACE, which helped to raise the charity’s coffers by €233. Through this anniversary year FACE would like to organise at least a minimum of 10 fundraising events of
which four have already been achieved. For further information contact the charity by calling 634 306 727 or via their Facebook page, Twitter account @FACECharity or the website www.face-chari ty.com.
18th - 24th May 2018
Weekender
Health & Beauty
Page 20 - 21
Tasty spears
Casa Vicens
Page 14
Page 16
Olive oil Page 18
Pain for Spain Page 30
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Feature
18th -24th May 2018
Pause for power I WELL remember the mixed emotions of apprehension and excitement when on the morning of my 17th birthday my father attached the ‘L’ plates to his car and handed me the keys, accompanying me on my first attempt at driving. The power of this 1947 Morris 8 seemed awesome - and in spite of the fact that my father was somewhat nervously keeping his hand on the handbrake, it was I that actually had command of this power. Within seconds I was utterly hooked, and have loved driving ever since. And whilst neither particularly fast nor luxurious, I still have affection for cars of that era as anyone who’s seen me driving my 1953 Riley around Albox can testify. There’s no power assistance so the braking effect is directly proportional to the amount of ‘welly’ applied to the pedal. Even starting it requires dexterous use of choke and the advance/retard lever, whilst the albeit somewhat limited power available is direct, with no computers intervening for safety; no electronic ignition or fuel
injection, no ABS or traction control, but the satisfaction gained from driving it and personally managing the controls, outweighs any pleasure a modern car might yield. And whilst most of us do like to feel in control and have power at our fingertips, few of us actually take advantage of the incredible resources available to us through the Christian faith. For one of the most amazing facets of Christianity is that we don’t merely worship the Almighty God, but that in the form of the Holy Spirit, He actually lives within us, giving us access to His immeasurable power. So now as we approach Pentecost, or Whit Sunday, we remind ourselves of how Jesus bequeathed this power to his early followers, who shortly after his ascension became changed people as they were filled with the Holy Spirit, which transformed them from inadequate, fearful and inarticulate followers into being fearless, dynamic and outspoken proponents of their new-found faith in their risen and ascended Lord.
Duncan Burr is Licensed Lay Reader for the Anglican Chaplaincy of Costa Almeria and Costa Cálida (further details available at www.mojacarchurch.org) and may be contacted at djburr@avired.com
Disaster #2 By Jos Biggs
THE die had been cast - I had defrosted a chicken breast, so I had to cook it today, and as the microwave was out of sorts I would have to cook it the old-fashioned way. With heroic courage I steeled myself to cook a proper meal - properly! I would cook the chicken. I would chop and cook the cabbage. I would peel, chop and cook the potato - no I won’t! I can get away with cooking rice, much simpler! I began to assemble the main ingredients, plus all the little extras such as stock, salt and pepper, without which apparently it is impossible to create an edible meal. I routed out the utensils needed for this feast, and never before had I realised how many saucepans I possessed - there were saucepans here,
there were saucepans there, in fact there were saucepans over almost every square inch of worktop! Then it dawned on me that I had no idea how long each component part would take to cook. Should I start with the rice? Or the cabbage? And how long will the chicken take? At this point my Guardian Angel, who had already broken out into a sweat, felt a headache coming on. He reached for a celestial Paracetamol, and whispered ‘Keith Floyd’ in my ear. Acting under the Keith Floyd influence I poured myself a glass of red wine, and stuck everything on at the same time at different settings and on different rings. And, like a good orchestra, it all finished together, and was tasty!
josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk
Feature
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18th - 24th May 2018
Advertising Feature
How does your insurance company value your car after a total loss? GOD forbid this should happen to you but if your vehicle is treated as a total loss (also known as a ‘writeoff’) it is because the cost of the repair is higher than 75 per cent of the cash value of the vehicle or it has sustained so much damage it’s unsafe and not roadworthy. We really hope you won’t ever be involved in this situation but it is best to be aware of some important aspects and to be really clued up. For example, Liberty Seguros recommends having third-party with theft, fire and total loss, because in cases where the client has third-party cover only and it is their fault, you will have no right to compensation. However, in the event that the loss is due to the fault of another person, you would be entitled to compensa-
WRITEOFFS: Know what can happen to the value of your car. tion for total loss, even if you have only got third party cover. Most insurance companies compensate the total loss with the sale value of the vehicle but bear in mind that after three years of your car’s life, depending on the car, it may have depreciated by up to 50 per cent or more, so your compen-
sation won’t be that good! On the other hand, choosing the right insurer can make a big difference. In the case of Liberty Seguros, within the first two years after buying your new vehicle, you will be compensated with the value of your car as if it was new. And from that point on:
• If the vehicle is up to three years old: you will be compensated with 80 per cent of the value of your car when it was new. • If the vehicle is up to four years old: you will be compensated with 70 per cent of the value of your car when it was new. • If the vehicle is more than four years old: you will be compensated with the cash value, plus 30 per cent. What’s more, in the case of total loss, Liberty Seguros does not deduct any type of excess. Although no one wants to lose their car due to an accident, it’s always better to think about what different insurance companies can offer you, especially if you have just bought a new car!
Liberty Seguros has an extensive network of over 300 brokers and agents that are dedicated to providing unbiased, friendly and expert advice. Speaking your own language too, these brokers are available to discuss your needs, face-to-face, which is the best cover to suit you. With insurance, not only for car and home, but also life, pet, business, commercial, leisure, public liability and personal injury, today Liberty Seguros is considered by far, the expat’s number one choice in Spain. To find out more or to receive a no obligation quote, visit www.lib ertyexpatriates.es or to find out the location of your nearest broker, simply call 913 422 549.
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Weekender
Lifestyle
18th - 24th May 2018
Budget bird feeding THERE is perhaps nothing more relaxing than sitting out in your back garden with a good book and a cup of tea, taking in the sun and listening to the sounds of the birds. However, bird food can be expensive. Luckily, there are a variety of economical alternatives for those who don’t want to spend a fortune to keep their little bird buddies satisfied. First of all, remember to always include fresh water. This can be sup-
plied in numerous ways although an elegant birdbath makes a welcome addition to any garden. When it comes to food, black-oil sunflower seeds are one of the best options. Almost every bird will eat sunflower seeds, and they can be mixed with other kinds of seeds and fruits. Another option is cracked corn. Cracked
TITS FOR TAT: There’s no need to splash out on bird food.
corn is cheap and high in carbohydrates and fat, whereas calcium and grit supplements are also essential for a bird’s health. These can even be offered up in crushed oyster shells or egg shells. If you want to go one step further, build your own birdhouse! There are many types of birdhouses, ranging from elaborate ones to simple ones that can be constructed with only a few basic materials.
Making your own detergent SO you want your clothes to be smelling fresh and clean but you don’t want to waste money on store-bought detergent? Or perhaps you’re wary of the chemicals that come along with store-bought brands? Well you’re in luck, because making your own detergent is a piece of cake. First, grab a bar of soap. Using a cheese grater or food processor, grate the soap and then put it into a pan with a litre or two of water and heat it, stirring until the soap has dissolved in the water. Put 15-20 litres of piping hot water in a big bucket. Add one cup of borax and a cup of washing soda, and stir well. Then add the mixture from the pan and give it another whirl. Cover the bucket and let it sit overnight and then pry it open and have a look. It may need to be shaken or stirred until the consistency is correct. Then you’ll have detergent for weeks and months to come! Use half a cup to a cup depending on the size of the laundry load.
Asparagus is absolutely fabulous ASPARAGUS is one of the few In the second year, harvest the asparaperennial vegetables out there, gus when the spears are about ½ an so once you get a good batch inch in diameter, but only do this going, you’ll have harvests for two weeks. for year to come, and Cut or break off the spears you’ll barely even have to at about the seven to ninedo anything. inch mark with the tips The first year that you tightly closed. plant it, allow asparagus In subsequent years, harto grow completely and vest the asparagus for don’t even bother to harsomewhere between five vest it. Just enjoy looking at and eight weeks, then wait those green beauties knowfor the shoots to become ferny ing they’ll be all yours for so that the roots are sturdier and SPEARS OF DESTINY: Grow your own the taking the next time stronger when the following year’s asparagus. around. crop comes in.
Weekender
Property
18th - 24th May 2018
Dublin Property Expo A PROPERTY expo aimed at potential Irish buyers will be held in Dublin from October 19-21. According to the organisers, the Irish economy is ‘booming and Irish property buyers, both investors and those seeking somewhere for their retirement, are coming out to play again.’ They add that the event offers an excellent opportunity for property vendors on the Coast to ‘tap into the buoyant Irish economy.’ The Expo will be part of the ‘hugely successful 50 Plus Expo which attracts around 18,000 visitors over its three days.’ If you are interested and want more details, contact the organisers, S&L Promotions Ltd., at +35 31 496 9028 or email: info@slp.ie.
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Right move WORLD-FAMOUS Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s first residential building is now open to the public. Six of the modernist’s designs are already listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, and one, Casa Vicens, can be visited for the first time since it was built in 1885. Fans regard the property, located on Carrer de les Carolines in the Gracia neighbourhood of Barcelona, as his first masterpiece. Constructed as a summer residence for the well-heeled Vicens family, it is described as a ‘laboratory in which Gaudi developed the vocabulary of decorative motifs and symbols he would use in his later works.’ The then 30-year-old was handed a blank canvas to design the house, and it is filled with wildly colourful nature-inspired forms that became a sig-
PHOTO CREDIT CASA VICENS
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OH MY GAUD: The stunning Casa Vicens. nature of his style. It has been lovingly restored with a modern staircase and lift installed to improve accessibility, and can be considered a must-visit for visitors to the capital of the northern region.
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Weekender
Food & Drink
18th - 24th May 2018
Five-a-day? EATING your ‘five-a-day’ may not be as beneficial as you think. Scientists say we all metabolise fruit and vegetables differently which means some of us benefit more from them and their protective effect against diseases. Researchers will investigate whether gender, age, gut bacteria or genes have an effect on how individuals absorb the goodness.
Miracle berry changes it all TRUTH is often stranger than fiction. A small berry has the ability to make beer taste like chocolate and vinegar like apple juice. Known as the miracle fruit, the bizarre unchains a series of reactions in people’s taste buds and turns sour food into sweet. The berry, officially named Synsepalum dulcificum, was first introduced in Europe at the beginning of the 18th century by French explorers who brought it from Africa. Its pulp contains miraculin, a natural sugar substitute that completely masks acid and sour flavours for a period of between 30 minutes to two hours after it is eaten. This way, eating a simple and plain lemon can turn into an exciting experience with no trace of sourness whatsoever. Food establishments in New York organise ‘flavour trips’ at $15 (€12.70) per trip. In these food tasting events, partici-
STRANGE FRUIT: Synsepalum dulcificum. pants try several dishes after eating the miracle fruit to put their taste buds to the limit. Synsepalum dulcificum is sold in the form of freeze-dried granules, tablets or the actual berry, often frozen due to its high perishability.
Grease is the word COOKING OIL is a common kitchen product that is almost never disposed of correctly. It should never be poured down the sink as it can cause blocked sewers, with build-ups dubbed fatbergs. One found under Whitechapel in London earlier this year was 250 metres long and weighed 130 tonnes. Instead, first let it cool down, put it in the fridge if you are in a rush, then transfer it into a sealable container and throw it in the bin. Or if you prefer, collect it in a larger container and take it to a recycling centre.
Food & Drink
18th - 24th May 2018
Weekender 19
Olive Oil – Part one
LIVING in Spain offers the opportunity to not only enjoy local olive oils, but to grow your own olive trees and have your own oil pressed from the fruits, as we do here at Olive Tree Farm. I think you must agree, that there is nothing more simple for a tasty breakfast or snack, than a drizzle of olive oil over a slab of crusty bread, a few ripe tomatoes and a few slivers of tasty cheese. It’s not just us either, so many dishes feature olive oil in the menus these days and the TV chefs love to use it. There are many different types of trees grown throughout Italy, France, Spain and also Australia and the USA, all producing different flavours. Some are pepper y, some have a hint of apple, others fruity with a hint of grass and leaves, some described as mellow and sweet and the competitions to be awarded for producing the best oil in the world is big business! Most experts say that the cultivated tree dates back to around 6000 BC and originated in Asia Minor and apparently it has even been found in Egyptian tombs, including Tutankhamun. In Italy the cultivation of the trees is thought to have started around the 7th centur y and Roman taxes were often paid in the form of oil tributes and sent to the imperial city. Spain came in quite late. It wasn’t until after 1050
vegetables 2 shallots finely chopped One bunch of mint finely chopped 6 tablespoon of Balsamic vinegar 4 tablespoons of olive oil Salt and pepper
OLIVE OIL: Perfect for making marinades. own oil. We always have more than 500kg of fruit which means the oil we get back is actually our own. It is quite a thrill tasting it when we get it back from the press. I would describe ours as smooth and peppery. BC that the olive trees were introduced by the Arabs. The trees were their own varieties and were initially grown in southern Spain. The Spanish words aceituna (olive), and aceite (oil) do have Arabic roots. The health benefits of olive oil are also good. A lot of research has gone into it over the years and studies have even linked olive oil to a lower risk of breast cancer. It has also got anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and clot-preventing qualities. There are actually many other health benefits, so if you get the chance take a look online and see what you can find. As I mentioned earlier, we are lucky to have our own trees and press our
Olive Oil recipes Healthy Chips! Simply take four unpeeled large potatoes, slice lengthways into eighths and place on a roasting tin. Drizzle them with four tablespoons of olive oil and plenty of salt and pepper and roast at 200 deg C for around 45 minutes until crisp. Give them a bit of a shake every 15 minutes or so. You can even sprinkle with a bit of chilli powder if you want it hot! Marinades Marinades are perfect to tenderise meats and add extra flavours to meat, fish and vegetables. Simply mix everything together and put whatever you are cooking with into a plastic
food bag. Leave in the fridge for at least two hours to catch all the flavours prior to cooking. Balsamic Mint Marinade – Good with lamb and
Spanish style marinade – Good with lamb and pork 2 tsp smoked paprika Handful of crushed fresh thyme 4 garlic cloves chopped 8 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons sherr y vinegar Salt and pepper Next week I will provide a few more olive oil ideas including dressings and side dishes.
OLIVE TREE FARM was set up about four years ago with the intention of achieving a level of self sufficiency. We have poultr y for meat and eggs, goats for milk, rabbits and small pigs for meat and harvest our 70 olive trees each year for oil. We also grow a variety of fruits and vegetables.
20
Weekender
Health & beauty
18th - 24th May 2018
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PHYSIOTHERAPY is being promoted as a boost to help patients with diabetes. The Professional Association of Physiotherapists of the Community of Madrid (CPFCM), said physiotherapy can both prevent diabetes and by improving musculoskeletal and neurological well-being in people suffering from the disease, can increase their quality of life. Type two diabetes accounts for 90 per cent of global cases. It appears in adulthood and is largely due to being overweight and physical inactivity.
DIABETES BOOST: Spanish medics are working on it.
Therefore, the general secretary of CPFCM, Jose Santos, said that physiotherapists can help prevent disease by “helping people with diabetes to plan a personalised exercise pro-
gramme to maintain good glycemic control and achieve ideal weight.” Complications can cause ulcers, hypertension, diabetic vascular disease or cerebrovascular dis-
ease, all which can be treated with physiotherapy techniques. According to the CPFCM, most people with diabetes suffer from musculoskeletal complications such as shoulder pain, back pain or osteoarthritis and it can lead to a loss of feeling in the feet and legs. In addition, many people with poorly controlled type one diabetes develop a syndrome that limits the mobility of their joints. Santos said: “In all these conditions, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in returning a normal level of health for people.”
Number one for RECENT figures from the UK’s Office of National Statistics confirm that Spain is the top choice for British pensioners looking for a new life in Europe. There were no surprises among the main reasons given, which included some Spanish delights such as the sun, sea, sand and… healthy Mediterranean diet. Other reasons included the outdoor lifestyle and access to leisure facilities, including the many golf courses and swimming pools. There are just under 300,000 British citizens registered as living in Spain, a staggering 37
per cent of the total threequarters of a million Brits who live in EU member countries. And of this figure living in Spain, 41 per cent are over the age of 65. Of course, the true fig-
ure could actually be much higher as not all Brits who live here go to the trouble of registering with their local authority. If you’re lucky enough to live in Spain, but unlucky enough to need the
Health & beauty
Drinking on the up AN increasing amount of women are suffering from what experts are calling ‘drinkorexia’ where they are substituting food with alcohol. Psychologists say that labels detailing the calories in bottles of alcoholic drinks are encouraging people with eating disorders to swap food for drink. Those obsessed with calorie counting will often not eat to be able to drink. It is said more people are drinking on an empty stomach, maximising the effects of the alcohol and whilst advertising calorie content can be beneficial it can also be harmful for those with eating problems.
Brits THE GOLDEN YEARS: Most Brits abroad in Europe choose to live in Spain.
suppor t of Spain’s healthcare ser vices, then never fear. Spain has a highquality health service which, for Brits, is free at the point of delivery. And with the availability of reasonably cheap accommodation which is suitable for British pensioners, there’s really nothing to stop you from saying ‘Hasta Luego’ to Blighty.
18th - 24th May 2018
Eat well to beat the pressure
FLAXSEED: Just a few tablespoons a day can reduce blood pressure readings. HIGH blood pressure, or hypertension, is known to affect 25 per cent of the UK population, but you can help keep it under control by eating the following: Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, spring greens and watercress, should be eaten daily with a serving classed around half a cup. Spring greens; kale, young salad greens, sorrel, spinach, Swiss chard. Two servings a day is the pre-
ferred amount to keep blood pressure lower. A serving is one cup raw or half a cup cooked. Try eating two portions a day of asparagus, beetroot, peppers, carrots, corn, courgettes, garlic, mushrooms, okra, onions, pumpkin, sugar snap peas, squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and a serving (half a cup) of berries such as grapes, raisins, blackberries, cherries, raspberries and strawberries. Flaxseeds and nuts are al-
so ideal to snack on during the day. One study found eating a few tablespoons of ground flaxseeds a day resulted in a falling of blood pressure readings.
Weekender 21
22
Weekender
Leisure
18th -24th May 2018
Film & TV Guide
Cumberbatch to play Vote Leave supremo in Brexit drama PHOTO CREDIT CHANNEL 4
OUR PICK OF THIS WEEK’S MUST-SEE
Richard Shanley
Dishing the Dirt
Harry and Meghan: The Royal Wedding BBC1, 9am-2pm, Saturday
BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH is to play the man who masterminded the Vote Leave campaign during the Brexit referendum in a new Channel 4 docudrama. The actor will play Vote Leave’s campaign director Dominic Cummings. The two-hour drama, with a working title of Brexit, has been written by political dramatist James Graham. Channel 4 said it would “explore the myriad tactics employed to swing one of the most surprising referendum results in living memory.” Vote Leave was the official ‘out’ campaign during the 2016 EU referendum and was backed by cabinet ministers including Boris Johnson and Michael Gove. Most of the drama’s action will take place during the build-up to the vote and “will explore the anatomy of a modern data-driven election campaign, and the divisive figures driving it from the shadows,” Channel 4 said.
PHOTO CREDIT SHUTTERSTOCK/KENSINGTON PALACE/TWITTER
OF EUROPA DIGITAL
BREXIT ON THE BOX: The Sherlock star has been cast as Dominic Cummings. The broadcaster said the drama would set out “not to be an analysis of who was right and who was wrong, but rather is the story of how it happened, and why.” During the campaign, Cumberbatch signed a letter saying Brexit would ‘damage’ the creative industry. Mr Cummings was one of the referendum’s leading strategists, and has said the ‘out’ campaign probably would not have won without the famous bus pledging an extra £350m a week for the NHS. He hasn’t commented on Channel 4’s plans, but he has been at loggerheads with Channel 4 News over their re-
porting of Vote Leave’s spending during the referendum. The group’s spending is currently being investigated by the Electoral Commission. Vote Leave has come under scrutiny for its Facebook campaign after it enlisted a data firm that may have improperly received users’ data. Vote Leave has denied any wrongdoing. Mr Cummings has been summoned to appear in front of the House of Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee on Tuesday to answer questions about Vote Leave's spending, use of personal data and co-ordination with other pro-Brexit groups.
If you would like me to answer any questions you may have on satellite TV or to expand on anything I have written about please call me on 678 332 815 or email richard@europadigital.com. I look forward to your comments and questions. Don’t forget to listen to my radio show every weekday from 10am on Spectrum 96.1 and 106.8FM, now covering almost 3,000sq kms of Costa Almeria and Calida or listen online at costaalmeria.spectrumfm.net for the latest news and views from the world of satellite television.
WEDDING BELLS: The nuptials vows will be exchanged at St George’s Chapel and (inset) the happy couple. THE big day is finally here. Kirsty Young, Huw Edwards and Dermot O’Leary present live coverage of the most-anticipated TV event of the year, which takes place at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. Kirsty and Dermot will be on the moat by the castle, with Huw on the Guard Room roof as thousands descend on Berkshire. Special guests will share memories of the lovebirds, while royal and fashion experts will be interviewed during the build-up. Following the service, the newlyweds will begin their celebrations with a carriage procession around the streets of Windsor, accompanied by soldiers from the Mounted Regiment of the Household Cavalry, where thou
sands will cheer them on. Tina Daheley, Alex Jones, Ore Oduba and Anita Rani will be on hand to capture all the stories on a day of national celebration. Although not a public holiday, the 2018 Royal Wedding will see pubs up and down the UK stay open until 1am for an extra two hours of partying, while the BBC will waive the licence fee for local communities, allowing the public to watch at special events. And a global audience of millions will be hoping Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby avoids dropping the ring during the service after admitting he fears the worst.
PETS
18th - 24th May 2018
Weekender 23
Claws for concern: caring for older cats AS your pet cat gets older, there are cer tain symptoms you need to look out for in order to keep your kitty in top shape. Cats are considered old or senior at 10 years of age and thought of as geriatric when they reach 12-15 years. If you notice weight loss in your cat, it could be down to a decreased sense of smell and taste. Digestion is also more difficult as they age and it may be better to feed them much smaller meals more frequently. However, weight loss can also signal disease so you may want to consult a vet.
A SPANISH YouTuber has come under fire for feeding her pet fox a vegan diet. Animal rights activist and blogger Sonia Sae, from Barcelona, says she rescued her fennec fox a desert species preying on insects, birds and small mammals - from a breeder four years ago. But she claims she has fed the animal, named Jumanji, on vegan cat food since she adopted him.
FELINE THE SQUEEZE: Ageing cats need special attention.
Fox trot Recent video posts reveal that he has suffered a slew of health complaints, including loss of hair, semi-blindness and weight loss. And animal rights’ activists are blaming his diet. Specialist website Foxes and Friends said that a domesticated fennec fox’s diet should “reflect their natural wild diet,” and
therefore should include “high quality meat-rich
Just like humans, older cats tend to be less active but this can contribute to stif fening joints. In the cold weather they are more sensitive to cold and you may notice that their coats are not in a healthy condition. Dehydration is another danger as they become less thirsty, so be aware of their water intake as this could also signal kidney disease or diabetes. In order to combat diseases from old age, you need to make sure they have more regular health checks, making sure they have annual blood pressure tests and urine analysis.
dog food, wild canine food brands, cat food, meats, insects, mealworms, custom dietar y mixtures, or any combination.”
WELL KEPT PETS: Birds need to be kept cool in summer.
Tips on summer bird-care CAGE birds need particular attention in the summer. Just as it is dangerous for pets to be left in a hot car, closed sunny rooms can cause problems for pets, especially birds. You can use air conditioning and fans to make it cooler, as long as birds are not facing the air flow directly. Another option is to move them to the basement, but you will need a light timer to make sure they maintain their natural light schedule. Birds lose less heat when the temperature is warmer and humid air slows the process down too. In order to avoid heat stress, lower the temperature via air conditioning or gently spraying the bird with water. Also, move the cage elsewhere. If your birds opens its mouth and pumps its throat or sits on the bottom of the cage, it may be a sign that it is already suffering heat stress. It is essential that you take immediate action, following the steps above. If in doubt, seek advice from a vet. Remember to change water (for drinking and bathing) and food frequently in hot weather, making sure water is cool.
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Weekender
Puzzles
18th - 24th May 2018
Wordsearch Toy Story
Boggled How many English words can you find in the Boggled grid, according to the following rules? The letters must be adjoining in a ‘chain’. They can be adjacent horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Words must contain at least four letters and may include singular and plural or other derived forms. No letter may be used more than once within a single word, unless it appears twice. No vulgarities or proper nouns are permitted.
TARGET:
REX SPACE RANGER SLINKY BUZZ JESSIE
WOODY ALIENS BARBIE PIXAR STINKY PETE
TOY COWBOY POTATO HEAD LIGHTYEAR ZURG
ANDY HAMM STORY BO PEEP
Quick
Across 1 Marked by distress (7) 5 Treaties (5) 8 Take without the owner’s consent (5) 9 Duplicate (7) 10 Day immediately before today (9) 12 Short sleep (3) 13 Pleasantly odd (6) 14 Come into view (6) 17 Large Australian flightless bird (3) 18 Inclined to drowsiness (9) 20 Request information about (7) 21 Not elaborate or elaborated (5) 23 Small, lightly-sweetened cake (5) 24 Liable to sudden unpredictable change (7)
Down 1 Overcrowded or cluttered with detail (5) 2 Chopping tool (3) 3 Large sailing vessel (7) 4 Speech of violent denunciation (6) 5 Young dog (5) 6 Customers collectively (9) 7 Flee (7) 11 Existing state of affairs (6,3) 13 Asks for information (7) 15 Succeed in material terms (7) 16 Block passage through (6) 18 Grab hold of (5) 19 Loose fitting garment (5) 22 Fitting (3)
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
• Average: 15
• Very good: 30
• Good: 21
• Excellent: 38
gent geed ghee dent dept deed deep ended eggs edda heed hued huts hues endue endued endues exude exuded exudate exudates duet duets dues date dates adept axed eats efts feud feuded feta fest feat feats
SCORING: • 4 letters: 1 point • 5 letters: 2 points • 6 letters: 3 points • 7 letters: 4 points • 8 or more letters: 11 points
Cryptic
Across 1 After time the ceremony becomes commonplace (5) 4 Damages found around oriental women's quarters (6) 9 Lose hope when praised by mistake (7) 10 Hard to falsify ID (5) 11 Neckwear connections (4) 12 Eve rang about score (7) 13 Address that's somewhat undesirable (3) 14 Be against tuba coming back (4) 16 Bob's the head and Don’s upset (4) 18 Mark is hiding in the torpedo tube (3) 20 Lack of sailor ruined scene (7) 21 I would have the French not working (4) 24 Part of a similar variety of grub (5) 25 Gland is real and damaged (7) 26 Cleaned up the fire residue within a day (6) 27 A political group get together (5)
Down 1 Up to now, Dorothy has come back and dined (2,4) 2 An edition for the children (5) 3 Biblical character in Roget's Thesaurus (4) 5 Proud of tarragon rum (8) 6 Part of UK named Glenda incorrectly (7) 7 Drenched lair is covered by grass (6) 8 Rider out to get less wet (5) 13 Goat seen running around, but that was a long time ago (5,3) 15 They write about street eateries (7) 17 Indulge in some Mountain Dew, all owned by me (6) 18 Hold up the Spanish about 24 hours (5) 19 Show again what happened about the act (6) 22 Princess ran up to get foreign currency (5) 23 Stumble when making a journey (4)
Puzzles
18th - 24th May 2018
IRREGULAR SUDOKU
SOLTIMES STAR QUIZ : POLICE MATTERS 1. Active from 1961 to 1986, what was the name of the notoriously brutal secret police formed by President François ‘Papa Doc’ Duvalier of Haiti? 2. Apart from bass player/singer Sting (Gordon Sumner), name either of the other two members of the English rock band The Police? 3. In which two-act Gilbert and Sullivan comic opera do the singers complain that ‘A policeman’s lot is not a happy one’? 4. Originally numbering just six men, what was the name of London’s first professional police force, which was founded in 1749 by the magistrate/author Henry Fielding? 5. The RCMP is both a federal and a national police force in which country? 6. What is the name of the forthright police officer character in the ‘Noddy’ children’s series by Enid Blyton?
7. What is the name of the New York Police Department officer whose beat includes ‘Top Cat’s’ gang’s alley? 8. What was the name of the insanely incompetent police force, dressed in ill-fitting, unkempt uniforms that appeared regularly in Mack Sennett’s silent film slapstick farces from 1914 to the early 1920s? 9. Which 19th century British Home Secretary (later Prime Minister) reformed and liberalised the criminal law and created the modern police force? 10. Which Beatles’ song, first released in 1967, contains the line ‘Mister City Policeman sitting, pretty little policemen in a row’? Not a lot of people know that... the world’s first traffic light was erected outside the House of Commons in 1868. It blew up the following year, injuring the policeman who was operating it
Kakuro
Answers 1. TONTON MACOUTE, 2. ANDY SUMMERS (guitarist) and STEWART COPELAND (drummer), 3. THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE (or The Slave of Duty), 4. BOW STREET RUNNERS, 5. CANADA (Royal Canadian Mounted Police), 6. PC (later Officer) Bill PLOD, 7. Charlie DIBBLE, 8. KEYSTONE COPS (KOPS), 9. ROBERT PEEL, 10. I AM THE WALRUS
SUDOKU
Weekender 25
Fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the ‘clue’ on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
CrosswordSolutions from last week Quick
Cryptic
Sudoku
Irregular Sudoku
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Weekender
Feature
18th - 24th May 2018
Was that a Brief Encounter too? by Sandy Shore ELTON JOHN says it for me: “I regard all pop music as irrelevant in the sense that people in 200 years won‘t be listening to what is being written and played today. I think they will be listening to Beethoven.” Music we leave for the enjoyment of future generations will likely be compilations from the movies? Often, more money is taken from soundtracks than is taken at the box office. The story behind these compositions can be as interesting as the movie. One of the 20th century’s most poignant melodies was Lara’s Theme that featured in Doctor Zhivago. This haunting melody was not David Lean’s first choice. Unable to ascertain rights to a preferred Russian ballad, the film director turned to the composer Maurice Jarre. “Go up into the mountains and take your girlfriend with you. Write the music, not for the movie but for her.” Lara’s Theme was the outcome but
CLASSIC SOUNDTRACKS: Doctor Zhivago (left) and Brief Encounter. begs the question, who was the real Lara? A similar mystery lies behind Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. Voted the most romantic music ever composed it was the musical score for the award winning movie Brief Encounter. The 1945 film tells the heart-wrenching story of a middle-class English wife and mum. Fate brings her to a brief encounter (hence the movie’s title) with a doctor travelling on the same train. The tender romance between these two
strangers begins when Laura Jesson (Celia Johnson) suffers a little grit in her eye whilst returning home from her weekly shop. A sympathetic Alec Harvey (Trevor Howard), a local doctor comes to her aid and removes the irritation. The action or rather the lack of it, for the dalliance remains unconsummated, takes place at an urban railway station during the closing months of the Second World War. A triumph for David Lean, the movie captured the mood of a sombre nation.
The film came second in a British Film Institute poll (1999) of Top British films. Why Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto was chosen as the movie’s theme music remains a mystery. Once a matter of hypothesis is what inspired the Russian composer to write this touching keyboard melody. Depressed after the failure of his first concerto the musician was referred to neurologist and amateur musician Dr Nikolai Dahl. Only after four months of remedial sessions did Rachmaninoff’s creativity return and his Second Concerto was the result. Howard Shelley, an expert on Rachmaninoff, reveals the true inspiration behind it: “One member of Rachmaninoff’s family suggested to me that rather than Dr Nikolai Dahl’s hypnotherapy having been responsible for Rachmaninoff’s miraculous recovery, it was actually his interest in Dahl’s highly attractive daughter that got him composing again. Was that a brief encounter too?”
Behind THE MUSIC Carole King Tapestry V L James vljamesinfo@gmail.com Facebook: @vljamesinfo IN 1960, having just turned 17, Carole King had her first No 1 hit as a songwriter. Will You Love Me Tomorrow by The Shirelles was just one of over 60 charting songs that King wrote in the 60’s (many with her husband Gerry Goffin). In the late 60’s King’s friend, singer/songwriter James Taylor persuaded her to perform her own songs. In 1971 King released Tapestry. It was a collection of songs that she had written over the years, many of which had been hits for other people in the 60’s. Songs like (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, You’ve Got A Friend, I Feel The Earth Move were recorded in a raw and natural way with producer Lou Adler making sure the album could not be
accused of being over-produced. It received four Grammy awards in 1972, including Album of the Year. Joni Mitchell and James Taylor both feature on the album, along with an array of the best musicians of the time. The album remained on the Billboard Charts for 313 weeks and Carole King is rightly acclaimed as probably the most influential female songwriter of all time.
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CARS WANTED CARS WANTED for Cash. Classic Cars & Land Rovers, Range Rovers, Defenders & Discoveries. Please call: 659 685 133 (253556)
Mediumship on Sunday 20th May tbc. The Evening of Mediumship on Tuesday 22nd May, will be taken by Corina Talbot. The Divine Service with Mediumship on Sunday, 27th May will be taken by Annette Rogers. Contact Wendy on 965323028. www.spiri tualistcentrebenijofar.com New email is phoenixchurch23@g mail.com or info@spiri tualistcentrebenijofar.comIdentifica cion Fiscal G54713789.
CHARITIES/CHURCHES GIRASOL COMMUNITY CENTRE. Mosaic Classes, Art Classes, Karate, Yoga, Thai Chi, Pilates, Health Screening every 6 weeks. For Hire 5.00€ per hour. Tel 639 089 170
THE SPIRITUALIST CENTRE, Benijofar meets at Hamilton´s Bake House, 62 Calle Vicente, Blasco Ibañez, Benijofar 03178. We hold a Sunday Service at 11.30 a.m., a Tuesday Evening of Mediumship at 7 p.m. Spiritual healing is available every Sunday and Tuesday after the service. The Divine Service, with
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Classifieds
18th -24th May 2018
DRAINAGE
FOR SALE
ALBOX/MOJACAR INSURANCE, Award winning Agent for ALL your insurance needs. ALBOX OFFICE: 950 121 943. Mojacar office: 634 323 399
13 PIECE dining suite. Solid Oak unmarked as new. 1150€ ovno. Tel: 678 289 194 (276771)
HEALTH & BEAUTY GIRASOL HEALTH FOOD SHOP, Calle Malaga, Albox. For all your dietary needs, health foods, organic foods, supplements, super food powders, organic eggs and veggie box scheme. Est 2006. Tel 639 089 170
HOME MAINTENANCE
FOR SALE
INSURANCE
MARKS Home Maintenance services. Painting General Maintenance. Kitchen Unit Renovation. References available. 634 908 475 (259695)
CHURCH SERVICES
MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 902 123 309, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 902 123 309 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)
INTERNET GET YOUR business noticed online! Make sure that expats in Spain can find your product, service, restaurant, bar or shop. Contact Spain’s newest and brightest online directory TODAY. Call 951 386 161 or email mark.w@euroweeklyne ws.com for more details.
LOCKSMITH PHILL THE PICK, LOCKSMITH-24hr. Locked Out? Locks fitted/upgraded, house safes. Arboleas and surrounding. Special Weekend Rate. Tel 697 243 181 (257799)
MOTORING WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 902 123 309. (200726)
REMOVALS/STORAGE FULLY Insured UK/Spain Removals & Storage, UK Trading Standards Approved www.indalotransport.c om 634 33 64 68 or Freephone UK 0800 999 33 68 (253596)
DRAINAGE
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SOLAR ENERGY SOLAR WIND POWER SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@sunergyalmeria.c om (276705)
Services
18th -24th May 2018
BABY EQUIPMENT HIRE
BUILDERS
BUILDERS
DRAINS
REMOVALS & STORAGE
SERVICES
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Sport
18th - 24th May 2018
Aguilon Golf update A LOT of work is going on around the golf course, the new driving range is taking shape and with the grass now growing, the manicuring of the course is underway. Wednesday May 2 – Monthly Medal It sounds like a broken record ‘but when is this wind going to give us a break?’ Another round fighting the wind with most of the players struggling and two over par was a winning score, with a four way tie for second decided on a card count back. 1st Derek Manning 86-13 = 73 2nd Norman Ridgway 86-12= 74 on a card play off 3rd Ann Miles 91-17 = 74 on a card play off Twos: Dave Sharp 8th, Ann Holder 12th
STABLEFORD VICTOR: Rich Hull. MEDAL WINNER: Derek Manning.
Wednesday May 9 – Individual Stableford Highlight of the day was John Holder recording his first ever hole in one on the 12th hole using a trusty eight iron, while most of the field also enjoyed the day in benign conditions, with four players tying for second place, and many other players at par or better. 1st Rich Hull 39 pts 2nd Bob Tagg 38 pts on a card play off 3rd Chris Tyler 38 pts on a card play off Twos: Chris Tyler 3rd, Dave Wilson 8th, Louis Long 12th, Rich Hull, Glyn Ombler 14th, Dave Gray, Ann Holder, Dave Sharp 17th For further information log on to our website at www.aguilon membersclub.com.
Pain for Spain as Russia qualify RUSSIA have qualified for next year’s Rugby World Cup after Spain, Belgium and Romania were sanctioned for fielding ineligible players. Spain had hoped for a reprieve after an investigation into their defeat by Belgium, which had meant Romania qualified. But the panel ruled that all three countries broke eligibility rules, and they have been deducted points as a result. Russia therefore join Ireland, Scotland and hosts Japan in Pool A, while Germany meet Portugal in a play-off. The winners of that go into a Europe/Oceania playoff against Samoa for the chance to complete Pool A
WINNING TEAM: AD Los Gallardos.
FIGHT CLUBS: A fracas broke out after Spain’s controversial defeat to Belgium. at next year’s global showpiece. The rugby unions of Spain, Romania and Belgium have a 14-day window in which to appeal against the ruling. Romania have already lodged theirs, claiming they took all appropriate steps to determine the availability of Sione Faka’osilea, who
has been judged ineligible after previously representing the Tongan seven’s team. “The Romanian Rugby Federation cannot accept a decision in which teams that knowingly violate regulations are treated identically to those who comply with all procedural steps required,” a statement read.
Up for the cup SUNDAY afternoon saw Next Stop Almeria-sponsored AD Los Gallardos progress to the final of the Copa Federacion Almeria. With the largest crowd of the season the match went in favour of the hosts then to Comarca Rio Nacimiento CF and back again several times. Starting with a 1-0 lead for Los Gallardos from the first leg, the
match drew level on aggregate score at half-time meaning that if the score remained as it was the visitors would go through on away goal advantage. The second half brought four more goals and a 4-3 win for Los Gallardos (aggregate 5-3 win). The final is being played this Sunday at Campo Colonizacion, San Isidro at 8pm.
Motoring
18th - 24th May 2018
Rough diamond Rolls-Royce reveals luxury SUV LUXURY carmaker RollsRoyce has unveiled its first off-road vehicle. Named the Cullinan - after the largest diamond ever found - the €270,000 SUV will go on sale later this year. Based on the brand’s new lightweight aluminium production platform used in the latest generation Rolls-Royce Phantom, the car retains the company’s iconic grille and Spirit of Ecstasy bonnet ornament. Chief designer Giles Taylor said the bodywork, with design elements derived from the Phantom and Ghost saloons, took five years to develop. “We didn’t want to be shy, we wanted a functional aesthetic look with no apology,” he added. Much of the opulent interior is also plundered from the new Phantom, including the digital instrument panel and sloping centre console. The steering wheel and all seats are heated, with the rear pair separated by a unit housing whisky glasses, a decanter, Champagne flutes, and a fridge. Safety features include night vision cameras and active cruise control, while customers can choose extras from a glass partition sealing off the boot to customisable ‘recreation modules’ that plug into the back of the vehicle, one of which consists of two rear-facing leather chairs and a cocktail table which glide electrically out of the tailgate at
BASE jumping and drone racing.’ Rolls-Royce says the 22-cubic feet of storage space is enough to stow a ‘Mark Rothko from the art gallery or a newly discovered artefact from an archaeological dig.’ The all-wheel drive system is powered by a 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 engine that delivers HIGH ROLLER: The Cullinan stands six feet off the ground. 563bhp and 850Nm of torque serving up a the touch of a button. photography, rock climb- brisk top speed of 250kph. Pre-orders for the CulliOther options include ing, snowboarding, parasmodules for ‘fly fishing, cending, kite boarding, nan are open now.
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