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it’s beginning to feel ‘a bit’ like christmas PAGE 15

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

...local news update Vélez Blanco/Rubio

Officers of the Guardia Civil of Vélez Blanco have arrested A. G. M., 29 years old, of Vélez Rubio for falsely reporting a crime, concealment of assets and fraud.

The arrest is the result of the investigation by the Guardia Civil after learning, through a complaint filed in Vélez Blanco, of the theft of two DAF trucks in Montijos (Badajoz), while they were parked up.

The Guardia Civil launched an investigation to locate the trucks, correlating all the information obtained and maintaining several lines of investigation, including the false report.

As a result of this investigation, they located the trucks in Poland. The owners were able to prove that they had legitimately bought them from the alleged victim in July 2009.

With the information gained the officers reinterviewed A. G. M., who admitted to selling a total of four trucks; these two, and two others, which were reported stolen from Molina de Segura (Murcia). The proceedings initiated by the Guardia Civil have been submitted to the Magistrate’s Court of Purchena.

Adra

From 21 to 25 January 2013 the Concejalía de Juventud del Ayuntamiento de Adra is holding a course for tourist representatives.

Organised by the Ayuntamiento de Adra under the heading ‘Celebritas’, the course is aimed at young people, aged over 16, who want to train as ‘animators’ in tourist establishments.

The course will cover the origins and the concept of tourist activities, the why and wherefore of tourist entertainment and the leisure hotel business.

It will also cover headings such as: The entertainer, the type of clientele, interdepartmental relations and the structures of hotel management, the animation department, staff, customer service and public relations, the day to day life of a tourist representative, animation programs, clubs and activities, children’s entertainment, clients of the future, and the best practices of a tourist representative.

The course will be held at the Centro Cultural de Adra in the evenings from 5:00 to 21:00, and will run for a total of 20 hours.

The registration period has already started and those interested can reserve a place by going to the Área de Juventud del Ayuntamiento de Adra, in the Museo del Mar or by calling 677 942 005.

Arboleas

The full Council of the Ayuntamiento de Arboleas has finally approved, in an extraordinary session, ‘Innovation number 13’, by which 1,683 homes on un-consolidated urban land will be regularised.

With this final approval the legal vacuum in which these houses existed - where no license or authorisation could be granted - has been resolved.

According to the Alcalde, Cristóbal García, the urban situation the Equipo de Gobierno found when they commenced government was

‘really and truly an anomalous paralysis’ because ‘his hands were tied’ in all matters relating to licensing in these areas.

‘What we’ve done is to relate the plans to the physical reality of these villages, which have all the services, and therefore deserve the legal classification of consolidated urban centres.’

He also stressed the importance of the adoption of the Innovation 13, since in the ground surface data of consolidated urban development declared represents 73 percent of the housing stock of the town.

The Alcalde also lamented the misunderstandings of this issue in the press, explaining that Innovation 13 had nothing to do with Decree 2/2012 of the Junta de Andalucía.

All the Government team expressed satisfaction with the resolution of this ‘loophole’, which had put a brake on the development of the municipality. ‘It’s just another step forward for Arboleas to conform to the Normas Urbanísticas, which provide solutions to the problems that have arisen. The next step is to complete the partial revision of the Plan General del Ordenación Urbana del municipio, which will provide a solution to housing which is outside the núcleos de población, but which are within the environs of the town.’ Explained Cristóbal García.

Finally, the Alcalde and his team expressed their thanks for the servicio de urbanismo de la Delegación Provincial de Almería de la Consejería de Agricultura, Pesca y Medio Ambiente for their co-operation.

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On the morning of the 12th December the ‘marea verde’ (green tide) will be holding a Day of Action in Albox.

It will be entitled ‘Día provincial de lucha contra los recortes y para defensa de la Educación Pública’ (Provincial Day of Action Against the Cuts, and in Defence of Public Education.)

It will take place in several schools, with ‘wear a green top to school’ the forming of a human chain and a demonstration in break time to express dissatisfaction with the cuts.

In the afternoon the main event of the day will be a march in Albox. From the various villages of the Almanzora area coaches decorated with green balloons, banners, etc. will arrive in Albox.

The march will take place on foot along a non-asphalted path, a symbolic statement representing the cuts, followed by an act of protest against a bank which is considered to be the main, though not the only, bank responsible for the current crisis.

The day will end in a playful nature with music and other activities.

To prepare for this day of action, each Centre will take advantage of the Día de la Constitución to organise meetings with families to encourage them to participate.

Also each Centre will use the previous few days to make banners, posters and bags with which to perform the symbolic action of complaint against the bank.

The action is being coordinated by the Provincial Assembly of Teachers.

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Constitution Day: “Healthcare Should Be A Basic Right,” Says Rubalcaba

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Their carer apparently called out the emergency services at around 19.00hrs on Thursday after she found their bodies in the ground-floor apartment on C/ Gabriel Pastor when she went round to see to them that day.

Local Police and the Guardia Civil attended the scene, along with medics to certify the two people’s death.

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Rubalcaba’s idea, and some – such as the regional president of Andalucía, a PSOE member – have even suggested that the current government is using the recession as an excuse to cut funding in the areas that most affect the country’s population, such as healthcare, education and social services.

They say these and the labour reform, together with other measures brought in by the PP central government, are effectively going against the Spanish Constitution, which was drawn up to ensure the rights of everyone living in Spain were protected.

Overall, however, they believe that the Constitution works well if it is adhered to, but does need a few ‘tweaks’ to bring it up to date - as was the case in 2005 when the text was altered to allow any first-born, irrespective of gender, to be directly in succession to the throne.

This was effected when Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia gave birth to their first child, Leonor, to ensure that she would be next in line for the throne after her father even if she later got a baby brother.

But the amendment turned out to be even more relevant when, in 2007, her sister Sofía was born.

The bodies of a man and a woman in their 80s have been found in a house in Santiago de la Ribera, near San Javier (Murcia).

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As Spain took a day off work today to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution, opposition leader Alfredo Pérez Rubalcaba said he wants to see this amended to ensure free healthcare is a basic right for all residents in Spain, irrespective of whether they pay social security or have a valid visa if they are non-EU citizens.

The socialist head says healthcare should be on a par with education, as in it should be a right and not a privilege.

At present, the Constitution mentions medical attention as being a right of all residents in an ‘advisory’ manner only.

In answer to president Mariano Rajoy’s comments about how the number of people paying social security in Spain has plummeted, Rubalcaba reminded him that the total figure is at least 20 million workers.

But he warned that for every single person claiming a Spanish State retirement pension, there are only two workers.

Paradoxically, in 1996 the total number of residents in Spain who were working was 12.5 million, compared to 17 million today – although the population has rapidly increased in the last 16 or 17 years.

All other socialist members said they fully supported

It has not been revealed whether they are a couple, nor whether they lived in the apartment they were discovered in.

Relatives of the victims have already attended the property,, including their son who works as a painter in the town.

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As yet the cause of death is unknown, but police are treating the incident as a murder.

Madrid’s Christmas lights have been switched on – albeita week later than usual due to the city holding an official period of mourning for the fifth victim of the Hallowe’en tragedy, María Teresa Alonso, who passed away in hospital last week after suffering serious brain damage due to lack of oxygen from being crushed in the stampede.

The lights will only be on in the main commercial areas of the city, to draw attention to those and boost business, and also to save money on electricity.

City council sources say they expect to spend nearly 28 per cent less this Christmas on lights – an expense which will fall to 1.9 million – by using energy-saving lightbulbs and switching them off earlier in the evening.

The traditional nativity scene, or belén – the Spanish translation of ‘Bethlehem’, which is also used to describe an ornamental Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus in the stable – has been set up in Cibeles Palace and is open to the public free of charge.

It measures an impressive 100 square metres – the size of a large apartment or half the size of an average villa – and has 600 figurines, human and animal in equal numbers.

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Spain, Greece and other countries with high youth unemployment may be obliged to set up a scheme which guarantees that the under-26s are placed in formal study, training, paid work experience or a ‘proper’ job within a maximum of four months of either finishing their education or being left unemployed.

Similar schemes have been set up in Finland and Sweden, whereby 83 and 68 per cent respectively were working within just 90 days.

Head of employment for the European Commission, Láslő Andor, says it will be up to each country involved to work out how they will put the programme into action and to finance it, although cash from the European Social Fund (FSE) will normally be available.

Whilst the move will be supervised at all times by the EU, the individual governments will be responsible for the details since ‘Sweden does not have the same needs and industrial makeup as Portugal’, as Andor recalls.

He says the level of unemployment in the European Union is ‘intolerable’, with Spain and Greece being the worst offenders at 25 per cent jobless and rising to 55 per cent among young adults.

Current rates of unemployment in the 27 member States is costing the EU – and therefore the countries within it – a total of 153 billion euros a year, both in loss of tax and social security income and in having to pay out dole money.

Doctors stage lock-in at Cardiology Institute to prevent its closure

At least 60 junior doctors and 120 permanent staff members have spent the last month staging a lock-in at the Cardiology Institute in Madrid where they work in protest over its pending closure.

This is one of numerous lockins that have taken place over the course of this year to prevent closures and cutbacks.

In March, several supply teachers facing job loss finally let themselves out of Sevilla Cathedral after shutting themselves inside for five months in protest, and in June, around 20 people locked themselves inside the primary school in Puente de Vadillos (Cuenca province) to stop it from being closed down.

The Cardiology Institute has been practising for 65 years in Madrid; the capital’s only hospital which specialises entirely in heart complaints, particularly complex ones, will be axed to save money.

All the junior doctors will be made redundant and the fixed employees are waiting to be transferred to another hospital.

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Sick Valencia boy who wrote to the King gets a reply King Juan Carlos has read the letter sent to him by a six-yearold Valencia boy asking for an operation for Christmas, and says he has asked for help to ensure he gets it.

Edu Pinto suffers from Guillain-Barré Syndrome, which has a life-expectancy of just three years – he has already had it since age four – and which affects the nerves and muscle functions as well as leading to curvature of the spine.

The child, who is wheelchair-bound, has also just got over leukaemia.

Medics at Valencia’s La Fe hospital do not want to operate, because of the very limited probability of Edu’s survival, but the family are convinced that their only hope is surgery.

A week ago, Edu wrote to the King of Spain, who has just come out of hospital himself following a hip replacement.

He said, “If you think I have been a good boy this year and behaved myself, I don’t want toys or games for Christmas, just an operation.”

The boy said his only wish is to live, and that he hoped the King would understand, having just been in hospital himself.

Having read the letter, the Monarch has written back to Edu, praising him for his ‘admirable strength’.

He said he has written to the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality and to the regional health authorities to ask for their help!

Strikes are set to hit the tourism industry hard over this festive season with workers from rail board RENFE, airline Iberia and public sectorowned hotels known as paradores downing tools.

Iberia has already announced a continuous strike starting this Friday, December 14 for a whole week, with services resuming only for the first weekend.

Pickets were due to take place this Monday and, this week, on national rail lines run by RENFE, Adif and FEVE strikes have been called off but rescheduled for Thursday and Friday instead.

Strikes are currently plaguing the metro line in Valencia, with only 40 to 50 per cent of trains running, although the line from the city centre to the airport appears to be functioning normally.

In Madrid, 12 days of partial strikes on the metro between this coming Thursday and New Year’s Eve will take place, and Barcelona’s bus service employees will down tools for the whole of next week from Monday, December 17 through to Friday, December 21.

Already, paradores have staged a strike for the bank holiday weekend – Thursday, December 6 and Saturday, December 8 were public holidays, meaning many people would also take the Friday off work to go away for a few days – and they will do so again over New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. These strikes relate to restructure plans and redundancies in all the above-cited sectors, and will coincide in many cases with protest marches over government funding cuts in education and healthcare and closures of pharmacies due to non-payment by regional governments of the costs of medication they have to

incur.

Iberia recently announced that 4,500 jobs would go as part of the company restructure, and salaries of remaining staff would be cut due to the airline reducing its operations by 15 per cent in the coming year.

Spain’s government is complaining that the strikes will create a ‘poor image’ of the country outside its borders, and could mean millions of people planning to go away for Christmas or the New Year, or who have to travel to be with their families, will be left stranded.

Extensive delays and cancellations of flights and trains could result, and anyone due to travel is advised to contact their transport company for further information.

During the previous parador strike over the October bank holiday period, the sector lost millions of euros as guests cancelled their bookings, fearing that there would be nobody to attend to them and basic services such as cleaning or catering unavailable.

With the loss of profits likely to arise from the strikes, the government says staff are creating even more financial difficulties for their employers and that their actions could therefore be counterproductive, putting even more jobs in jeopardy.

photo: http://s1.reutersmedia.net

Transport, airline and hotel strikes could blight Christmas and New Year for travellers

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Degrees Offered Entirely In English At Five Universities In Valencia Region

University degrees taught, assessed and examined entirely in English are due to be introduced gradually in the Comunidad Valenciana from the start of the next academic year.

Regional education authorities say it is the ‘ideal opportunity’ for students to become fluent in English, both in terms of speaking and written expression, and technical knowledge of their chosen subject matter.

The move is aimed at making graduates more employable.

Members of the regional government’s education department are currently examining each syllabus for all degrees offered by universities in the Comunidad Valenciana in order to adapt them to suit

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their plans.

These include the Jaume I University in Castellón; Valencia University; Alicante University; Valencia Polytechnic College and the Miguel Hernández University in Elche (Alicante).

For the academic year 2010-2011, students considered to be high achievers were selected to complete part or all of their degrees in English.

They had to have a level of the language equivalent to the European B2 stage, or intermediate level.

A total of 23 degree subjects in the five universities in the region are offered in English to these high achievers.

EU collects Nobel Peace Prize

The presidents of the EU’s three main institutions have collected the Nobel Peace Prize in Norway’s capital Oslo. The EU was awarded the prize for its role in uniting the continent after two world wars.

According to a report by the BBC, at the ceremony there was applause when the leaders of France and Germany stood up, holding hands.

Critics say the award is inappropriate. They point out that the eurozone crisis has exposed deep divisions in the 27-nation bloc.

Most of Europe’s national leaders were at the event, but not the UK’s David Cameron.The British prime minister’s deputy, Nick Clegg - a longstanding advocate of the European project - represented the UK at the ceremony.

Nobel committee chairman Thorbjoern Jagland told the audience that in the current economic crisis “the political framework in which the union is rooted is more important than ever”.

“We must stand together, we have collective

responsibility,” he said, warning of a risk of new nationalism in Europe.

The prize was received jointly by European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso and European Parliament President Martin Schulz. In his acceptance speech, Mr Van Rompuy paid tribute to the post-war leaders of France and Germany who had forged the EU by uniting their economic interests. He praised “the EU’s secret weapon - an unrivalled way of binding our interests so tightly that war becomes impossible”.

“It is better to fight around the table than on a battlefield,” he said, quoting Jean Monnet, one of the EU’s founders.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel sat next to French President Francois Hollande at the ceremony in Oslo City Hall.

Mr Van Rompuy said the economic crisis was fuelling “the return of longforgotten faultlines and stereotypes”, but added: “Even such tensions don’t take us back to the darkness of the past.” He ended by adapting the famous “Ich

bin ein Berliner” quote from the late US President John F Kennedy during the Cold War. He said he hoped future generations would “say with pride ‘Ich bin ein Europaer’, ‘Je suis fier d’etre Europeen’, ‘I’m proud to be European’”.

Four young Europeans, selected through an open EU competition, were in the delegation with equal status alongside the politicians.

The European Commission, which drafts EU laws, says the Nobel Prize money - about 930,000 euros (£755,000; $1.2m) - “will be allocated to children that are most in need”.

The BBC’s Europe correspondent Chris Morris says there has been a barrage of criticism from Eurosceptics, peace activists and former winners of the prize.

Many of them question whether the EU should be given such an honour at a time when record unemployment and tough austerity policies, supported by European institutions, are causing serious social tensions in several member states.

Expanish passports:

The Latest National Protest Group

Passports bearing the nationality Expañola (‘Expanish’) being part of the ‘Exuropean Union’ have been issued by the national protest group 15-M, named after the day they first occupied the Puerta del Sol square in Madrid on May 15 last year.

The declaration on their website says: “If Spain is Rajoy, Ana Botella [mayoress of Madrid], Julián Muñoz and Isabel Pantoja [two of the main suspects in the Marbella-based corruption case uncovered in 2007], then stop the country because we want to get off.

“If Spain is a country where there is no respect for or value placed on education, where they stop immigrants getting healthcare, where bank managers get reprieved and ordinary citizens are persecuted, either we will swallow our national identity cards or we’ll die of shame.”

They have set up a website called exlandia.net, where anyone can ‘apply’ for an ‘Expanish’ passport and immediately become a ‘citizen of Expain’.

According to the website, “Expain is a country where ordinary citizens stop people’s homes being repossessed, help immigrants, inform themselves personally by internet and lose their fear.”

They say other European countries have set up an eXgreece, eXportugal and within Spain itself, an eXgalicia, eXandalucía, an eXcatalunya, an eXfuenlabrada and an eXgijón, as well as, further afield an United eXtates.

This is the latest in a series of national protest groups and slogans which include the indignados (‘indignants’), the 15-M movement and Occupy the Congress.

Five In Custody Over Motorway Service Station ‘Distraction’ Thefts Guardia Civil officers have arrested three men and two women said to be behind at least 17 robberies from drivers in motorway service stations along the east coast.

The accused parties, all from Eastern Europe, are believed to haveuseddeceptiontechniques such as asking directions, puncturing tyres and stealing bags when the occupant of the cars were distracted checking their wheels, and at times even employed force and violence.

Some of them would patrol the A-7 in the provinces of Murcia, Alicante, Valencia and Castellón looking for potential victims, who were normally

tourists in hire cars or foreignregistered vehicles.

Investigations started some months ago and revealed that the suspects had links to other, similar gangs and carried out enough regular thefts that they were able to maintain a high standard of living off the proceeds.

Police raided a flat in the city of Alicante and confiscated numerous stolen goods such as suitcases, keys, mobile telephones, credit cards and various documents including passports and driving licences.

They believe more arrests could be in the pipeline.

SabadellCAM takeover finalised

Over 300 branches of the SabadellCAM have been closed down this week in order to meet with ‘consolidation’ requirements of the European Union.

Offices of the Sabadell Atlántico will undergo a change of image in the next few days in the Comunidad Valenciana and Murcia Region.

Additionally, at the end of the year, the CAM bank will pass details of all its customers to the Sabadell, which will finalise the full merger of the two financial entities. Account numbers will remain the same but customers have been sent new cards for internet banking – although they will not be able to update their bank books in cashpoints until after this weekend.Withdrawing cash from ATM machines will operate as normal, say sources from the group.

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

‘Working Together to Make a Difference’

Two of Almeria’s leading charities, PAWS Animal Rescue and MACS Cancer Support, are joining forces to stage a big fundraising event in January. It gives the lie to the belief held by some that in these tough economic times charities are scrapping among themselves for dwindling support from the public.

The event came out of a meeting over coffee between Elaine Brown, founder of MACS, and two of PAWS main fundraisers Janet Franklin and Siobahn Tattan.

The two organisations share more than a common location – a couple of PAWS volunteers gave Elaine support in getting MACS off the ground five years ago, since when MACS has helped several PAWS supporters going through difficult times battling cancer.

The outcome will be a concert by ABBA ELITE, Spain’s leading ABBA tribute band at Turre’s Hostal Rural on Saturday 26th January. Well-known local personalities Tony Justice and Lady Ellen will host the event. Tickets, costing €10 and limited to Hostal Rural’s capacity of 400, have only recently gone on sale but are already selling very fast.

It is being staged under the slogan “Working together to make a difference” and seven local businesses are sponsoring the event – Euro Weekly News, Spectrum FM, Costa Coches, Coles of Andalucia, Lifestyle Enclosures, Greg & Co. & Post Black.

Elaine Brown of MACS addressed the “rivalry” question directly: “MACS have never wished to be seen as rivals to any genuine charity, and as an animal lover (with three dogs!) PAWS has always been one dear to my heart. Our greatest consolation is that we do see at first hand how MACS is helping to make a difference just as PAWS does.”

And PAWS’ Janet Franklin added: “We are hoping that by pooling resources to create a really great event, both charities can gain substantial rewards. We come across MACS fundraisers all the time, and we’re often attending each others’ events, so it just seemed like common sense not to get in each others’ way. There will be a raffle and an auction, and with both fundraising teams contributing we’re hoping for really good results.”

The team is looking for more auction and raffle prizes to go with the one-week holiday in a 7 Bedroom Villa that has already been donated for auction by Wayne Stafford.

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The concert is a one-off event because both charities want see how it works out and assess the results before deciding if similar ventures could be undertaken in future. But it reaffirms a principle about charity volunteering voiced in a recent editorial in the sadly now-defunct Levante Lifestyle Magazine, that it gives those who do it “a chance to see a caring and unselfish side to their fellow humankind.”

Assistance with Personal Hygiene

Tickets can be purchased at both the MACS Shop in Turre, The PAWS shop on Mojácar Playa, and several other outlets.

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Vera & Surrounding Areas email: carefusion@live.co.uk

call Elle on 674 509 382

7

8

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

new owners

sian & frank would like to welcome customers old & new

Fully Qualified Stylist Required

zumba party a great success!

Part Time

Must have minimum of 10 years Experience + good people skills

Gelish nails Only 15€ istmas r h c a set or have t vouchers

gif Soak Off - only 5€ av a i l a b l e fabulous christmas offers Luxury one-hour facial only 29€ FULL SET OF GEL NAILS only 25€ Fingers + Toes for ONLY 25€

Calle Malaga - Albox (100m from Mercadona)

Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm Saturday 9.30am - 3pm. No siesta

Call for an appointment

950 633 086

Prices are subject to change without notification. Please confirm on booking. We reserve the right to withdraw offers at any time.

BBC viewing figures went into decline last Saturday night as Mojácar’s regular armchair Strictly viewers literally voted with their feet for the real thing!

The town’s Artisan Centre was jumping as The Julie Bruce Academy gave a dance performance that would have defied Craig’s acerbic wit, whilst the other camp one would have been on his feet gesticulating like a football referee at the Milan derby.

Brucie’s catchphrase “Keep Dancing” was the theme as the audience joined in. For the fifty-something’s going on seventeen, Zumba is the ideal way to kick back the years and the instructors lived up to their mantra “Ditch the Workout - Join the Party!”

The leader board at the end of the evening showed jointwinners; both the AECC cancer charity and the Vera Flood Victims Appeal Fund were tied in the public’s affections, as the audience voted them a massive €500 and €200 respectively.

Zumba, the Columbian inspired dance fitness craze so popular in Britain, has a firmly-established base in Mojácar with attendance at classes on the increase.

Mojácar’s hectic party scene will be further enhanced throughout next summer when UK Zumba classes re-locate to the town for a week-end of fun and instruction.

For more information on the Zumba scene in your area or to discuss a bespoke fitness programme, call Alison Bramwell on 637 465 487 or visit her web site getfitmojacar@gmail. com. (Story and photos by AIM - Almeria International Marketing)

30 Daily Lenses FOR ONLY

18.90€

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With prices starting at just 2995 € and IVA FREE, less does equal more. Therefore it makes so much sense to protect your loved ones by investing in a guaranteed funeral plan from Iberian.

Visit www.iberianfuneralplans.com or simply contact our offices on 952595691 (Malaga) or 965993498 (Benijpfar-Alicante) Also located in The UK, Portugal, Canary Islands and Balearics

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no need to return to the uk for your glasses we have it covered IVA ON SUNGLASSES has increased to 21% but our prices are stayng the same!

Avda. Guillermo Reyna

mercadona salas opticos

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lidl

Just look at the facts:

Designer Sunglasses

hospital

The cost of dying has got a lot more expensive – Or has it??

From 1st September the rate of IVA (vat) charged by Funeral Directors rose from 8% to 21% so an average funeral cost here in Spain will be in the region of 4840 €.

With an Iberian Funeral Plan you fix the cost of the funeral at today’s price and it is fixed forever, irrespective of how much funeral expenses rise in the future.

With guaranteed Plan prices starting from just 2995 €. Do you need to look elsewhere for total peace of mind?

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www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

vivadent centro dental

9

COMPLETE DENTAL CARE English Spoken

Vera & District Lions Club Craft FaYre

On Sunday the 2nd December the Vera and District Lions club got the Christmas season offer to a roaring start, by holding a Christmas Craft Fair in the Ballroom of the Vera Hotel in Vera.

Visitors to the fair had the opportunity to view and buy from a wide variety of stalls offering, jewellery, cakes & pies, pottery, clothing and of course seasonal goods. The Vera & District Lions Club stalls included guess the weight of the cake, catch the ducks, a very grand raffle with prizes kindly donated by the stall holders. The other major Lions stall was offering seasonal treats such as mince pies, mulled wine a hot chestnuts. This was the ideal way to get into the festive spirit? The total monies raised on the day were 738.40euros. The Members on the Vera & District Lions Club would like to give a big thank you to everybody that supported this event.

Earlier this year the Vera & District Lions Club donated some very much needed specialist medical software and books to the St Agustin Children’s refuge in Vera. The monies raised at the craft fare will go a long way to providing the refuge with a specialist consultant ensuring the children get the best treatment and education to stabilise their future.

Lions Clubs are all about helping those people in need in our local communities. If you are aware of somebody that needs help, please email veralions@mail.com or call the Vera & District Lions Help Line on 634 338 733 - we may be able to assist.

invitation to join us on Friday 14th December 2012 hour 17.00 hrs

for the opening of our Arboleas Funeral Home English style chapel and family viewing room Arroyo Accituno Road, Arboleas (Next to the Cemetery)

Note: Free beer and wine

ALTERNATIVES TO AMALGAM FILLING

By Dr. Juan Cremades, chief surgeon at the Vivadent Centre

Amalgam, or “black” fillings, have been around since the 1800´s. Easy to mold and inexpensive to obtain, the amalgam fillings were at first an international hit. However, the first links to mercury intoxication created doubts on the safety of the material as far back as 1860.

The metallic-grey concoction is produced by mixing 50% liquid mercury with a mineral powder containing tin, copper, and silver. Mercury, in its metallic form, is not considered toxic in small doses. Nonetheless, a single gram of pure mercury is lethal if injected directly. Seven amalgam fillings translate to approximately 2 grams of “pure” mercury. In western Europe, the average adult citizen has twelve fillings; that translates to three or four grams of mercury in their bodies, if they’ve been treated with the traditional amalgam fillings.

Our bodies absorb and dissolve the amalgam over time, but many side effects have been associated

with amalgam, including fatigue, depression, irritability, vertigo, amnesia, inflammation of the mouth, diarrhea, and chronic “colds”.

Alternatives: White composite fillings. This “plastic” alternative has been around for decades, and has proven to be as durable as the amalgam, and much more aesthetic.

Inlays. They can be composed of gold, porcelain, or white composite. The gold is actually mixed with other “noble” metals to increase its durability. As the inlay usually requires impressions and the cooperation of a dental technician, it is a more expensive option.

Whichever alternative, the patient should know that the removal of amalgam is more complex than a simple filling replacement. The patient may need to wait months before permanently substituting a mercurybased filling. For more information, contact your dentist.

Specialising in:

• Implants • Cosmetic Dentistry • Prosthetics • Orthodontics C/Alfarero S. Hernández 10, Vera. Opposite Health Centre

Tel: 950 390 655

Monday to Friday: 10am - 2pm & 5pm - 8.30pm opening Saturdays (from January 2013)

10

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES NOVEMBER 2012

On the 1 Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me... st

2 Turtle Doves

S

Jacqui & April of

l Supermercado

Wish all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! we may not sell partridges but we sell everything else!

Tel: 950 43 00 43

Crystal Man of Almeria

What’s Your Lucky Charm This Christmas? ۞ Crystal Angels ۞ Energy Stones ۞ Jewellery ۞ Birth Stones ۞ Hanging Crystals

Perfect For Special Presents Or Stocking Fillers!

Email: solsupermercadoalbox@gmail.com

3 French Hens Tel: 617 699 624

A Partridge in a pear tree

5 Gold Rings

4 Calling Birds

Computer feeling under the weather?

Call Now to have your Computer diagnosed and cured Tel: 644 125 615 or 950 523 214 www.phoenixespana.com

Phoenix computers

7 Swans a Swimming POOL SHOP Frank & Dianne would like to say a big thank you to all our customers for your continued support

We hope your christmas and new year go

“swimmingly”

Shop: 950 104 345 or Maintenance: 637 582 696

10 Lords a Leaping

8 Maids a Milking C/ MAYOR 35, PALOMARES

BEAUTY by Denise • • • •

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Menu de la Noche-as Menu del Dia plus cut & Blow dry, 49.50€

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CRAZY FIT VIBRATION PLATES now in - 4€ a session or 10 for 25€ Tues - Fri, 9.30am-5pm; Sat, 9.30am-3pm

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11 Pipers Piping

official gas installers to Spanish Regs IG II

Tel: 627 279 584

6 Geese a laying

~ Verduras ~ Hortalizas ~ Carne ~ Charcuteria ~ We offer the best fruit selection for Christmas at excellent prices. If you don’t know what present to get for Christmas, Los Rizos is preparing special arrangements of fruits for any type of event. In the shop you will find our presentation packs to choose from. Also order your meat for Christmas now from our Butchery Department. Turkey, Chicken, Duck, Gammon, Chipolatas, Pork, Beef & much more.

Avda Lepanto, Esquina c/Malaga - ALBOX TEL. 950 121 379 / 616 740 638 E: los_rizos@hotmail.com

9 Ladies Dancing

Menu del Dia of Beauty Treatments - 35€

DUSTY BOOTS CARRIE JACKS BAR 7.15 - 8pm First steps into Line Dancing 8pm onwards mixture of improvers & intermediates

pork joints Fresh Turkey Goose fat Frozen ducks Christmas Puds Gammon Joints Quality street tins Turkey Crowns Pigs in blankets Christmas Turkey breasts Cakes Topside beef to order mince pies Call 697 243 181 or pop into Chill out deli on Avda Almanzora, Arboleas

LADIES DAYS AVAILABLE

SMITH PLUMBING SL

We dance to all types of music

Orders being taken now for Christmas Meat

PAMPERED

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New Installations Safety Checks Gas Boletins Issued Fully Insured 19 years experience in this area

Tel: 950 468 041

Stylish clothes, fun jewellery, pretty scarves

Ladies a perfect treat for yourself Gents a perfect Christmas gift for your Lady

Gift vouchers available

12 Drummers Drumming LICENSED POZO/CESSPIT EMPTYING

• Installation of fibreglass septic tanks • Blocked Toilets, Sinks, Baths & Drains • CCTV Surveys • Drain Tracing • Turbine Root Cutting • Blocked Cesspits

 950 091 109 or 648 768 587

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES NOVEMBER 2012

11

By Bill Blevins, Financial Correspondent, Blevins Franks

UK To Demand More Tax Information From Crown Dependencies

There is a move towards automatic exchange of information as the new global standard in international tax co-operation, with the US leading the way with its groundbreaking Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA).

The UK has now also opened negotiations with its offshore territories, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey, British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands, which are likely to herald in a new era of automatic exchange of information between the islands and the UK. It is likely that once agreement has been reached, other European countries will expect similar deals.

FATCA was introduced by President Obama in 2010, and should start in 2014. It obliges foreign financial institutions over the world to provide information on US citizens to the US tax authority, or pay a withholding

penalty of 30% of the payments made to them. Offshore centres are keen to sign up to avoid the penalties, which could damage their finance industry.

This would mean that the Crown Dependencies exchange more tax related information with the US than they do with the UK, so it is therefore not surprising that the UK Treasury is now seeking to impose its own version on its territories.

On 23rd November International Tax Review reported that its journalists had seen a leaked copy of a draft government document detailing how a UK scheme would work. It said it would “deal an almost fatal blow to tax evasion through the UK’s tax havens”.

According to the report, the agreement would require the automatic exchange of information for each reportable account of each reporting financial

institution. This would include full details of all beneficial owners of the account, including those whose identities might otherwise be hidden by trusts or companies.

On 30th November Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man governments confirmed that they had attended an explanatory meeting with Treasury officials about the possibility of extending the principles behind FATCA to “an exchange of information” with Britain.

For advice on legitimate tax planning in Spain, speak to an experienced advisory firm like Blevins Franks.

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

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...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

lo ok g o o d feel grea T healthy eating only reliable way to lose weight!

Forget about the diet - just cut down on the fat, claim scientists.

Trimming back on butter and cheese, cutting out biscuits, cakes and crisps and swapping to low-fat milk and yoghurt could help you lose three and a half pounds, says a new study.

It shows that people can get slimmer without going on a diet in as little as six months - and the more fat you stop eating, the more weight is lost.

New research from the University of East Anglia

Wendy is UK trained & qualified to NVQ levels II & III Fully legal & insured to work in Spain Treatments available in: Arboleas, Styles in Turre & Room 97 La Alfoquia

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(UEA) found that exchanging fatty foods for lower fat alternatives results in weight loss, slimmer waistlines and a drop in levels of bad cholesterol.

The results prove for the first time that weight loss is possible simply by choosing foods lower in fat despite a plethora of recent publicity extolling the benefits of low-carbohydrate and no-carb diets.

The study, which pooled results from 33 clinical trials involving 74,000 people, is published in the British Medical Journal (must credit) Dr Lee Hooper from UEA’s Norwich Medical School, who led the study, said the regime led to consistent lower weight for at least seven years.

She said ‘The weight reduction that we found when people ate less fat was remarkably consistent - we saw it in almost every trial. Those who cut down more on fat, lost more weight.

‘The effect isn’t dramatic, like going on a diet. The research specifically looked at people who were cutting down on fat, but didn’t aim to lose weight - so they were continuing to consume a normal amount of food. ‘ W h a t surprised us was that they did lose weight, their Body Mass Index decreased and their

Enrique Arias, N.D, D.O

Tel. 629 289 385

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Health Care For Adults and Children

35.50

• Emergency Home Visits • English • Spanish • French • German • 20 Year’s Serving the community

34.50

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We would like to thank all our lovely existing clients & invite new by inviting you to join us for cava & mince pies on wednesday 12th december 4-6pm You can ask us any questions you may have on any hair & beauty needs!

UK Registered - Treating

Sciatica - Back Pain - Sports Injuries Digestive and Cardiovascular Disorders Headaches - Arthritis - Skin Conditions Centro Cueva Del Lobo Paseo Mediterraneo 10, Mojacar Beach Centro Medico Indalo C/ Manuel Azaña, Almeria

waists became slimmer. On top of this, they kept their weight down over at least seven years.’

‘There isn’t a specific goal, the more fat you cut down, the more your weight falls.’

The systematic review included results from 33 randomised controlled trials, lasting six months to eight years, involving 73,589 men, women and children with varying states of health.

Comparisons were made between those eating less fat than usual and those eating their usual amount of fat which ranged from a quarter to half of everyday calories.

The effect on Body Mass Index (BMI) a score showing whether people are overweight or obese - and waistline was measured after at least six months.

The results show that eating less fat reduces body weight by 1.6kg (three and a half pounds), cuts BMI scores and waist circumference by 0.5cm (0.2 ins).

All these effects were in trials in which weight loss was not the intended outcome, suggesting that they occur in people with normal diets. The weight loss happened quickly and was maintained over at least seven years.

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www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Sweet remedy

Chocolate may be a remedy for the common cough, according to new research, writes Roger Dobson.

A compound in cocoa has been shown to reduce symptoms of both acute and chronic coughs.

About 300 people with a persistent cough are taking part in a clinical trial at 13 NHS hospitals where they are being given the naturally occurring chemical theobromine, derived from the raw ingredient of chocolate, twice a day for 14 days.

Early indicators are that 60 per cent of patients experience some measure of relief.

Researchers say a daily bar of dark chocolate may contain enough of the active compound to have an effect

on a chronic cough.

However, it is not a cure – symptoms did return once treatment was ended.

An earlier study at the National Heart and Lung Institute showed that theobromine appears to block the action of the sensory nerves, which in turn halts the cough reflex. It was found to be more effective than widely used codeine.

Everyone suffers a cough from time to time, but one in 12 Britons has a cough that interferes with activities of daily living on at least a weekly basis.

The amount of the theobromine used in the trial was a single dose of 1,000mg.

Unsweetened dark chocolate has about

450mg per ounce, sweet dark chocolate around 150mg and milk chocolate about 60mg.

Principal investigator Professor Alyn Morice, head of the Hull Cough Clinic, says: ‘This new capsule we are using seems very effective.

‘Eating a bar of dark

chocolate a day which has high levels of the compound may also be effective for people with diagnosed persistent cough, although eating chocolate on a daily basis may have other unwanted effects, including weight gain and so on.’

13

hair & beauty

A CHRISTMAS WISH

GIFT VOUCHERS

FROM DONNA’S HAIR & BEAUTY

for all your Hair and Beauty needs for the Party season call now for an appointment Donna, Liza, Heidi and staff would like to wish all their customer’s a very Merry Christmas

Mon: 9.30am-3pm Tue-Fri: 9.30am-5pm Sat: 10am-2pm

950 930 167 or 628 669 456 located opposite Pricebusters

elax evive

ejuvenate retreat elax El Cucador

Holistic Massage Melissa 626 144 680

Beauty Therapy

elissa, who is UK fully-qualified with over M 10 years experience, offers a range of relaxing massage treatments: from a simple Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage to Hot Stone treatments.

Reflexolgy with therapist Melissa

UK

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1 hour session or discounts for a course of 6 sessions. 626 144 680

Melissa 626 144 680 Sandra 661 858 949 Our UK fully-qualified therapists are available on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 9am to 1.30pm to pamper you… We offer a full range of Facials plus Waxing, Tinting, Manicure, Pedicure or a set of Gelish Nails from 15€! sandra

Christmas Offers with Sandra

Luxury Treatments Christmas Beauty & Holistic Treatments with Melissa

RELAX PACKAGE 25€

Hot Stone Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage & Express Facial

REJUVENATE PACKAGE 38€ Reflexology & Luxury Pedicure

REVIVE PACKAGE 65€ Holistic Total Body Care, Luxury Pedicure & Manicure

Gift Vouchers Now Available

Package 1 Delux Elemis Facial & Delux Pedicure 44€ Package 2 Kaeso Facial & Gel Polish 30€ Package 3 Mini Facial & File Polish (Toes) 18€ Shiatsu Therapy – Wendy

o you suffer with: Back/Neck problems, Stress/ D Insomnia, Headache/Migraine?

Shiatsu will help. Shiatsu therapy is very much hands-on, which promotes normal healing for general wellbeing. The recipient is treated fullyclothed. Wendy, fully-qualified in the UK, is available from 3pm.

We are a self-contained private suite of rooms on the right hand side of La Vida Cucador, with its own entrance, plus disabled access and good parking

If you are a fully-qualified therapist and want to know more about us or to book a room, email retreatcucador@gmail.com Become a friend on Facebook & see our monthly Special Offers!

ICE WHITE PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING

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kim clark benefits consultancy

■ if you suffer from... ■ or you need...

• mobility problems •h elp with washing/ • pain/breathlessness dressing • falls/stumbles • supervision rule changes mean that you could now be entitled to extra income by claiming UK Sickness/Disability Benefits while living in Spain For advice or to book a consultation call 950 169 729 or 663 297 568 www.ukbenefitsinspain.com kimos28@hotmail.com

FAALAAS AAS

25 The Post Shop, Albox, Stall 71 Los Llanos market

TEL: EL: 634 3117 4922

Home Accessories Scented candles, tea lights and holders Dried, silk & foam flowers Giftware Bathware Beautiful home accessories Stockists of Landon Tyler products Home parties available - view our range with your friends in the comfort of your own home

14

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES NOVEMBER 2012

A T N A S O T R E T T LE Dear Santa, I have a few problems this Christmas and I was wondering if you could help me out...

I have just opened a brand new business, it is not going so well.

I need to let as many people as possible know about the fabulous product range that I have and the amazing special offers that are available.

The problem is that I have used most of my money setting the business up, so cash is a little tight. Who should I contact for help?

Also I do not know if you have had the same problem but where have all these blessed flies come from? My visitors arrive for Christmas next week and I just cannot open my windows and doors. I really miss the feeling of a nice fresh breeze blowing through the open window – Oh those pesky flies. Please help!

On top of that it’s Christmas Eve, my guests have arrived and my hot water boiler has packed up. Cold showers, mucky plates and not even a hot bath to relax in. No one will come out to fix on Christmas Eve. What am I going to do?

In the meantime I still need to make myself look beautiful for the Christmas party season that is upon us, as you know it is important for us ladies to shimmer, shine and look our best during this festive time an my make – up is a little tired, my perfume a little old, so any thoughts where I can go to renew them?

With all this going on I have only just realised that my phone is not working. You know how important it is at this time of the year to be able to speak to family and friends, both here and in the UK. HELP!!!

I know that after Christmas we will all have over indulged with all the usual Christmas Fayre, turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings, not to mention the Christmas Pud!! What we really want is something different to tickle our taste buds maybe something spicey. Where can you suggest?

Yours faithfully, Troubled at Christmas

Coastal Mosquitos

Mosquito Screens for Windows & Doors For a free estimate call us on 610 000 700 City & Guilds & ACS qualifications, CORGI registered with 10 years experience

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OFFICIAL HITS AGENTS IN ALBOX

WE HAVE THE FULL RANGE OF HITS PHONES & SIM CARDS IN STOCK

last post date to Uk 1st class 18th December & 2nd class 15th Deacember Avda America, opposite Pricebusters, Albox

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cosmetics

Enclosures / Conservatories Convert your patio area into a sunroom or a mosquito free area with glass or mesh

The new delhi Indian Restaurant

Dear Trouble d at Christm as , Don’t worr y Help is at hand I have put together a list below of tried and tes ted compan ies th at can help w ith your problem s, contact the m today and fee l your trouble s float away. E njoy a carefre e Christmas.

Love Santa x xxxx

Contact us now on: Tel: 950 064 584 | Mob: 654 590 258 Email: info@solymarspain.com | Web: www.solymarspain.com We also offer all major mobile top ups from our office

avonfromclaire@yahoo.es

SOLTIMES Low Cost Effective Advertising reaching over 25,000 readers

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www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

decorate your home

15

eat like royalty this christmas

Next time you curse at the price of Marks and Spencer’s turkey joints, remind yourself that there’s a Christmas dinner out there that costs a staggering £125,000!

Luxury website, VeryFirstTo.com, has enlisted the services of top chef, Ben Spalding, to whip up the world’s most expensive Christmas dinner.

Once you’ve handed over your credit card, Ben and his team will create your four course Christmas feast and deliver it to your door on the big day.

So, you’re dying to know what’s on the menu right?

Well, instead of turkey you’ll be presented with a pristine cut of beef wrapped in £6,000 worth of edible 50-carat gold leaf, If you are hosting Christmas sprinkled with Akbari pistachios that cost a cool £5,000. lunch, with a week to go You’ll also find dry ice, caviar, truffles, a £37,000 bottle of its wor th ringing family and Champagne that pre-dates World War One served in diamondfriends to double check studded champagne flutes, a limited edition Japanese watermelon costing £2,600 and beans of coffee berries their attendance and find excreted by the Asian Palm Civet cat. out about any possible Yes, that’s a posh description used to describe cat poo! dietary requirements or Anyone who is rich enough to purchase this fabulous meal food allergies. for four will be pleased to know that all the proceeds will go to charity.

For anyone who’s still in shock about the price, here’s a list of the ingredients used and what they cost....

Diva Vodka: £2,000 - Piper Heidsieck 1907 Champagne: £37,000 - Dry ice: £180 - Pata Negra Iberico jambon: £600 - Birds Nest: £100 - Almas Caviar: £5,000 - 150 year old balsamic: £1,030 - Whole White Alba truffle: £3,500 - Pullet If you are ordering online, de bresse’s for stock: £2,500 - Saffron stock: £500 - Yubari ensure you check their order King melon: £2,500 - Dodine of rare breed turkey: £500 deadlines for delivery to Spain!

Wagyu beef: £4,500 - Gold leaf : £6,000 - Periogord truffles: £900 - Akbari pistachios: £5,000 - Kopi Luwak: £3,000 Some people like surprises Amadei chocolate: £150 - Densuke watermelon: £2,600 while others don't.

- Gold Ugandan vanilla plate: £1,500 - 1949 Cheval Blanc: If you find coming up with £4,680 - 1988 Corton-Charlemagne, Coche-Dury: £1,390 - 1959 La Tache: £5,400 - 1976 Chateau d’Yquem: £990 inspiration for gifts difficult, why Hhhhmmm, we think we’ll stick to turkey and a dollop of not invite close members of stuffing. Article courtesy of handbag.com your family to draw up a list of

Every family will have a time in Dec ember when they like to decorate their home.

Whenever you choose to do it, it's fun to involve the whole family.

check the guest list

Christmas n w o d t n u o C

ur cake marzipan yoroll ing out pastry. You need to

gift shopping

five different things they'd like to receive? Even when asked for suggestions it can take some people ages to get back to you with ideas so ask them early to give yourself as much time as possible for shopping.

Formula for perfect Christmas tree discovered

It may seem artificial but the formula for decorating the perfect Christmas tree has been cracked. like Getting the correct ratio of lights and tinsel is also Covering a cake in marzipan is just icing sugar otherwise it will stick ugh eno g usin out it roll crucial to lighting up your life, say students at Sheffield make sure you one for marzipan-ed it needs to be left University’s maths society. to your counter. After the cake is was and allows the marzipan to dry out Their calculations suggest the tree-topping angel or week before you ice it; this simply moisture from the stop to es cak iced l star should be precisely one tenth the size of the roya with e traditionally don If you are ner vous it. ning stai and tree. The number of lights required is found by g icin the ugh cake seeping thro for read y-rolled... opt not multiplying the mathematical constant Pi (3.14) by why n zipa mar r you out about rolling the height of the tree in centimetres.

For example, a 183cm (6ft) tree needs 574cm of Put the ground almonds into a large bowl.

Add s: nt lights (183 x 3.14) or 18ft 9in. But perfection is only ie ed Ingr the caster sugar, the golden icing sugar and the obtainable with 37 baubles and 920cm (30ft) of 300g ground almonds lemon zest. Use a wooden spoon to stir everything together. Add the ar tinsel.

200g golden caster sug almond extract and the egg whites. Mix everything together well to make a firm paste, then use your hands to ed sift ar, ‘The formulas took us about two hours to sug g icin n knead lightly until smooth.

Shape the mixture into a round.

Wrap in clingfilm and chill for at least 1hr.

Don't worry lde 200g go complete,’ said formula creators Nicole Wrightham if the paste feels a little sticky it will firm up and dry out once it's been chilled. s on Zest of 2 lem and Alex Craig, both 20. ‘We hope they’ll play a To make the glaze put 3tbsp apricot jam into a small pan with 2tsp cold water. Heat gently, then sieve into a t rac 1tsp almond ext bowl. Peel off the greaseproof lining from the cake, then use a sharp knife to level off the top. Turn it over and part in making Christmas a bit easier for everyone.’ put on a cake board. Brush the sieved jam all over the top and sides of the cake.

2 medium egg whites The work was commissioned by department Take two A4 clear-plastic wallets and cut along the shortest edge of each one. Open them out and put the 3tbsp apricot jam store Debenhams. marzipan round onto one of them. Put the other opened-out wallet on top and roll out the marzipan to make llet s 2 x A4 clear-plastic wa Christmas decorations buyer Sarah Theobold said: a 33cm (13in) round.

‘The formula is so versatile it will work for a tree How to get the paste on in one piece…Take off the top wallet, flip the paste onto the cake and peel away the other wallet. Press down marzipan over top and sides, so it fits snugly. Trim away excess with a sharp knife. Lift cake large enough for the Royal Family at Balmoral but onto a serving plate and cover with crumpled greaseproof paper. Leave to dry out for at least one day. also on trees small enough for modest homes.’

Home-made marzipan

Article courtesy of metro.co.uk

tailor made

16

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Gold buying centre G&C Bullion Turn your old broken or unwanted gold and silver into cash immediately Free valuation. No obligation to sell.

Please bring ID English Bullion Dealer Looks to buy gold or silver in any condition from Jewellers. Shops And Dealers

For further information or to arrange a valuation please call

tel: 637 226 973

Palomino Kennels

Exclusive Boarding Kennels/Cattery Glad t me to hey sent Pa Kenne ls whi lomino back t e they wen o t wet En cold & gland !

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All Diet Requirements Catered for.

Daily Exercise in 10 Acre Estate, Vet on 24/7 standby.

(25 years Experience).

Call 662 668 423 or 950 067 051 www.palominokennels.com

LEGAL CORNER WITH MICHAEL DAVIES, ABOGADO/SOLICITOR

If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic, please e-mail info@daviessolicitors.com

BUYING A HOME IN SPAIN

If you have decided to buy a home in Spain, follows some information regarding the legal aspects of the purchase...

Buyers of property in Spain naturally find the formalities and procedures involved, strange and confusing and this is often compounded by problems of language and difficulty in obtaining local professional advice that they can understand.

Some purchaser, seem only too happy to sign and pay as and when asked, sometimes with unfortunate results.

The wise thing to do is to take on the services of a qualified abogado (Spanish solicitor) of which there are many in all the tourist-orientated resorts who speak good English or who at least have English-speaking secretaries.

The Law Society in each province controls the work of Spanish solicitor.

Here is a very general outline of the work that goes on behind the scene, so that you have a rough idea of what to expect.

1. R equest of the copy of the seller’s escritura. A study of the first notarial copy of the sellers Escritura de Compraventa will indicate whether all the tax and registration procedures have been completed on the previous transfer. The registration details entered on the Escritura will enable the lawyer to do a complete search in the Register, and therefore make sure that the seller has a proper title and ensure there are no hidden charges or encumbrances affecting the property.

2. Make sure there are no outstanding bills.

3. It is normal for a deposit to be handed over to reserve the property until the signing of the Escritura de Propiedad can take place. When the deposit is handed over your lawyer will draw up a solid contract to secure both parties until the day of the signing. .

4. I f you are a non-resident the Spanish Ministry of interior requires you to obtain a certificate of non residency (which in turn determines your fiscal number) so that you can sign the escritura. It will also be required later on by the Tax Authorities. This is known as the NIE number.

5. I f you buy from a non resident you must hold back 3% of the price stipulated on the escritura which your Abogado will then pay to the Tax Authority on behalf of the sellers capital gains tax. (The abogado will not be able to register your property until he has obtained the receipt from the tax office for this money,). If he is accustomed to dealing with foreigners, he will point this out, if he does not, watch out.

6. W hen deciding where, when and how you are going to pay for your house in Spain it is very important that you seek advice on your particular case, because the Spanish Law concerning foreign investment does not permit the payment to be made in any old way. If your lawyer is used to foreign conveyance, he will automatically point out the correct way of handling this.

7. Your lawyer will draw up a rough draft for the notary to prepare the title deed. (By contrast to England, in Spain each time a transaction takes place a new title deed is drawn up).

8. W hen the escritura is signed there are taxes and fees to be paid, which your lawyer will do for you, on receiving appropriate funding.

9. Order the property register to inscribe your title deed.

10. Approx. One month from the signing of the escritura you will receive your escritura with the registers stamp on it, and receipts for all the payments made on your behalf. (I recommend you staple them to your title deed forever, because when you go to sell they can be used as deductions against capital gains.)

Congratulations, you now have your final title deed.

I want to take the opportunity to say that even though all this sounds complicated, the Spanish legal system in what concerns the buying of property when used properly, gives both the seller and the buyer total safety.

Michael Davies is a Spanish Abogado and has been practicing law in Almería since 1993. He is member of the Law societies of Almería and Madrid and has offices in Mojacar and Almeria High Street.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

property group Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria

Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563

www.veritashomes.co.uk info@veritashomes.co.uk You can find us on Cortijo Grande

€39,950

Mojacar playa

€75,000

Mojacar playa

€80,000

Mojacar playa Villaricos

€80,000 €85,000

reduced

Bargain! 1 bed / 1 bath 1 st floor Apartment.

Build 50 m².New fitted kitchen. 5 minutes drive to all amenities. Ref. 1019

2 bed / 2 bath 1st floor Apartment with terrace & underground parking place. Air con. Fully fitted kitchen. Communal pool. Ref. 1123

1 bed / 1 bath fully furnished Apartment with amazing sea views and private garage. Terrace of 36 m². Ref. 1398

2 bed / 2 bath Apartment near the promenade, beach and amenities. Store room. Underground parking. Lift. Ref. 1171

Antas reduced

Mojácar Playa

Almanzora valley €100,000

Mojacar Playa

2 bed / 1 bath fully furnished Apartment in Marina de la Torre Golf. Terrace with sea views & back patio. Ref. 1176

16 rooms renovated House in the charming village of Urracal close to amenities & municipal pool. Build 360 m². Ref. 1142

2 bed / 1 bath fully furnished ground floor Apartment. Communal gardens & pool. Terrace 23 m². Build 70 m². Ref. 1359

mojacar playa

mojacar playa

mojacar playa reduced

€90,000

3 bed / 2 bath charming village House close to all amenities. Build 89 m². Fire place & solarium with mountains views. Ref. 1114

mojacar playa

€125,000

2 bed / 2 bath sea facing Apartment within 2 minutes walk to the beach. 2 terraces.

Communal Pool. Ref. 1018

Mojacar Playa

€150,000

€99,000

€129,950

€150,000

3 bed / 2 bath Bungalow near the beach and amenities. Walled plot of 225 m². South orientation, light and airy. Ref. 1138

2 bed / 1 bath semi-detached Villa on plot of 246 m². Living dining room with fireplace. Roof solarium with sea views. Ref. 1052

mojacar playa

mojacar playa reduced

Mojacar Playa reduced

€165,000

€195,000

2 bed / 2 bath Townhouse. Private underground garage, terrace & solarium. Small complex with pool near the beach. Ref 1009

3 bed / 2 bath linked Villa with Plot of 100 m² within walking distance to commercial centre.

Communal pool. Ref 1044

Mojacar playa

Vera

Mojacar

3 bed / 2 bath spacious Townhouse with private garage within 200 m to sea. Communal pool & landscaped gardens. Ref 1333

€135,000

3 bed / 2 bath large Apartment with terrace and sea views. Build 125 m². Fully furnished and equipped. Communal pool. Ref. 1207

2 bed / 2 bath frontline Penthouse apartment. underground garage in front of the promenade.

Sea views terrace of 19 m². Ref. 1160

€210,000

€110,000

€299,000

4 bed / 2 bath Villa with independent garage, solarium and pool a few minutes to town. Plot 5,000 m². Build 202 m². Ref 1017

€199,950

3 bed / 3 bath nice Villa with garage in La Parata close to the club. Plot 400 m². Terrace, solarium & utility area. Ref 1010

€299,950

3 bed / 2 bath charming House with garage on plot of 7,000 m² in La Huerta. Terrace with views & gardens. Ref 1196

Please visit our office or refer to our website for more “bargains”. Vendors: If you are seriously considering selling your property please visit our office to discuss effective ways of achieving your goal.

As per decree 218/2005 the “Documento de Información Abreviada” (D.I.A) for any property sold

by Veritas Homes is available at our office.

17

18

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Do Not iss M The Final Weekend at the Pink House

Massive Reductions on all items

Crazy Crazy Prices Has to be seen to be believed open every day

Dining Tables

Paintings

20€

15€

Print Room Prints

4€

Hand Chairs Sofas

25€ Cars

Carpets

20€

25€

Coffee Shop EVERYTHING

1€

per portion

We are closer that you think!

REST. Balabona & Petrol Station

5 mins from Arboleas, Zurgena, Antas, Huercal Overa and 15 mins from mojacar, vera & albox

Tel: 679 207 545 681 095 096 or 636 411 540

opening hours Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat-Sun 10am-4pm

We are 3.5 kms on the right, from the exit of 543 of the E15 / A7 motorway. Direction La Concepcion You can’t miss us and you shouldn’t!!

Murcia

E15/A7 Motorway A lb 

ox

Vera/Mojacar EXIT 543

La Concepcion

We are here



300€

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year • Merry Christmas & Happy New Year • Merry Christmas & Happy New Year • Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year • Merry Christmas & Happy New Year • Merry Christmas & Happy New Year • Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year • Merry Christmas & Happy New Year • Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

property guide....

Almería Estate Agent Vision Vision Investment Investment Property Property Almeria Almeria

Open: Monday-Friday 10.00am-3.30pm

info@vipalmeria.com • www.vipalmeria.com

farmhouses & equestrian properties For Sale

Paseo del Mediterráneo, 22b Mojacar Playa 04638, Beside the Red Cross on the Beach front.

info@icasaspain.com

Spanish Office: (+34) 950472524 / 950102006 Fax / Tel: (+34) 950 950 231

Urgently required clients waiting to view

Restored, large Cortijo in Almanzora Valley with lovely mountain and valley views

• 3 Double Bedrooms • Spacious Kitchen/Dining Room • Roof Terrace 45m2 • Large Covered Front Porch • Garage • 1500 metres garden • Walled and gated • Fully legal • Mains water & electricity

English Tel: 0044 1952 246 476 Email: berniefinlay@hotmail.co.uk

www.olivehouse-es.com

OLV573

antas

Olive

A truly unique opportunity to purchase a village house for development located in one of the most sort after locations in the town of Antas. This 3 bedroom property is located in the main square opposite the Town Hall.

47,500€

villa for long-term rental a beautiful, private villa on mojacar playa

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, furnished 3 terraces, private pool, sea views private garage, air-con & log burner €125,000

O

Contact: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466 C/Llanos, Bedar (Next to the Miramar Restaurant)

19

only 695€ p.c.m (excludes bills)

call 677 874 852

private enquiries only

Many can do it well...

Some can do it very well... but only a few do it like us... always with the customer in mind Camposol Business centre sector a, camposol mazarron

www.anotherworld-properties.com sales@anotherworldproperties.net

TEL: 968 592 679

ALL TYPES OF SENSIBLY PRICED PROPERTIES

REQUIRED NOW!!!!

MUST BE LEGAL ALL AREAS considered

Contact: 950 431 624 or Paul: 693 969 800 www.almeriapropertyfinder.com info@almeriapropertyfinder.com

...CALL 902 750 190 OR 950 121 936 ~ EMAIL: SALES@SOLTIMES.COM

Tel: 950 930 900 / 968 969 962 w w w. c a r l o s s a l i e n t e . c o m

carlos.saliente@gmail.com

special offer!

Wood Burning Central Heating System All Concealed Pipework 12.5kw woodburner, 6 radiators (12 sections) based on a 3 bed, 2 bath 120m2 villa

d n d a n Ariston 200l Compact Solar Hot Water System roof mounted Supplied and fitted from €6,995

For more info or free no-obligation quote, call, email or pop in & see us!

Open Mon-Fri 10am-3pm. Cortijo Pipa, Avenida de Limaria, 1, Limaria, Arboleas (next to the Welcome Stranger) Zafra Energy & Heating appointed installer of renewable energy systems

www.zafra-energy.com www.carlossaliente.com carlos.saliente@gmail.com

indoor market Pre - Christmas SALE 20% off Perfumes etc.

50% off 3 Month Old Stock

30% off second-hand stock

UK – Spain Collections Last Chance To Book Before Christmas!

Open Mon-Sat 10am-3pm Thurs-Fri 6pm-8:30pm

Phone Eddy 637 184 625/634 368 430

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

SPOTLIGHT: Mo

Sundance Spa’s Pool Maintenance S.L.

Paseo del Mediterraneo 171, Local2, Mojacar Playa 04638

Telf: 950 472 845 Fax: 950 475 858 Email: poolman@telefonica.net

E L A S End of Summer Sale of Swimming Pool Accessories (poles, nets, thermometers, hoovers,brushes etc).

Sol Times would like to wish all of our customers in Mojacar a

d.match digital services S.L domestic & commercial installers

5 yr guarantee NEW 44% more efficient inverter units AIRCON/HEATING SYSTEMS FULLY INSTALLED

SKY BBC ITV

Having problems with BBC & ITV? Call us now for the BEST solution

FREESAT/HD with recordable hard drive (BBC, ITV, Ch4, Ch5) No Subscriptions

Worried about running costs? Fit a Euro Meter Want to learn Spanish? Come in & see 300 Tv & radio channels Have Spanish Digital installed aswell! 3d in action

Solar Panels from

200 to 300 litres

patio heaters & neater heaters

LCD & LED TV’s

in stock and on display All in stock and on display

Ventanas y Puertas

P. R. BUILDING SERVICES have been trading in Spain for over 4 years now and currently have a list of very satisfied customers, we cover all aspects of building from foundations to roof including the supplying and installation of kitchens and bathrooms, Air Contioning, plumbing and electrics.Having been in the Industry for over 18yrs there are no limitations to our service. For

SL.

Martinez-echevarria perez ferrero

Mon - Fri: 10-2 &4-7, Sat: 10-12 Guardia Vieja, Mojacar Playa

Tel:950 472 947 Fax: 950 475 390 Mobile: 670 084 438 dmatchdigital@gmail.com www.dmatchdigital.com

Windows & Doors

HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTRE

If you are looking to improve your home then visit us first in our Seafront Showroom to see our large varied display of

Windows & Doors

UPVC, Aluminium or Wood - all made for the Spanish climate & fully guaranteed

Bathrooms Great range of shower & 15% off Complete Kitchens for Limited Expertly designed & Period

fitted including tiling, electrics, plumbing & appliances

Mosquito Screens, Shutters & Rejas, Internal Window Blinds, Toldos - Sun Awnings, Solatubes, Garage Doors, Enclosures, Tiling & Joinery, All Construction Work & much, much, MORE!

We offer guaranteed expert fitting or supply Flood damage only & trade enquires are welcome. all insurance For your FREE QUOTATION or site survey, claims dealt with phone us now or call into our quickly, efficiently & Mojacar Playa showroom professionally

Paseo del Mediterrano, Mojacar Playa,

T: 950 473 104 M: 669 143 036 E: info@mojacarwindows.es www.mojacarwindows.es

Indago H. Sal Gym Marina

Caja Caja Mar Granada

H. Puerto MOJACAR Parque → Comercial ← Marina PLAYA Hotel Z-7 Playa We are Here

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year To All Our Customers

WACKY HAIRDRESSER. Ladies are look and a new you? The Wacky Hai service at new lower prices! Calling your hair cut at The WACKY BARBER – 5pm. We are near Los Arcos and Tel. 667 961 645.

D MATCH DIGITAL SERVICES w established in their TV showroom o Arriving in Mojacar over 25 years ag a business that could be run by the vans and five engineers are always and servicing satellite TV systems, a systems and Securitas alarms. In t

law offices

all legal services professionally undertaken, since 1983 Offices in 11 Countries, Largest Firm of Lawyers in Andulucia Tel: +34 950 268 438

fax: +34 950 261 398

New Mojacar Office, Parque Comercial, Local 52

bath screens, shower trays & cubicles.

Complete bathroom renovations undertaken

Kitchens

a friendly Professional Reliable Serv Richard on 662422170 references an arranged.

MOJACAR WINDOWS AND HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTRE, Ventanas y Puertas Mojacar S.L. invite you to our Home Improvement Centre showroom on Mojacar Playa. We are the area´s Official distributors for top quality HOCO Windows/Doors, who are a part of the HAAS Group, one of Europe´s leading Windows/Doors manufacturers. We give you top German quality, made to measure just for you and manufactured at our factory in Valencia, under the strictest quality control.

Our friendly and experienced English and Spanish speaking staff will see you through from your initial enquiry through to installation. Come and talk to us and discuss your requirements. We have a lot more to offer than you think. We are open Monday to Friday 09.30 till 14.00 and 16.30 till 18.00. You can call us on 950 473 104 – email us at info@mojacarwindows.es or alternatively call into our showroom Paseo del Mediterraneo, 04638 Mojacar Playa, Almeria.

mojacar playa

Cocktails- Copas - Vinos - Tapas

Sex in the city evening

december 7th @ 7.30pm a special evening of fashion, cocktails live music every sunday 5pm - 7pm with jazz - blues - pop paseo del meditarranio 135 - tel: 950 615 411 follow us on www.facebook.com/el sitio.mojacar

s ’ a m i De L

Local, National & international removals REMOVALS Quality Second hand & STORAGE furniture showroom

263 Paseo del Mediterraneo Mojacar Playa, Next to Sol Marina Hotel

Mon-Sat: 10am-2pm Call Marc on 647 006 183 or Jo on 600 344 565 or e-mail enquiries@delimas.biz

www.delimas.biz

HUGE 265m2 Showroom

fortnightly SERVICE TO & FROM UK FULL OR PART LOADS

photo: www.flickr.com/photos/ebyrne41/

20

fans and in the winter Neater Heat patio heaters.

SALE SALE SALE Sundance Sp Maintenance S.L on Mojacar Play an end of Summer Sale of Swimmi Accessories: Poles, Nets, Thermo Hoovers, Brushes etc. Come on do get yourself a bargain. Tel 950 472 8

At Bay Bistro the introduction of winter menu has proved popular w favourites like beef and vegetable st dumplings, all homemade by chef and Sandra from locally sourced ingredients. Their lunchtime me sandwich menu is also proving to b hit and having seen the size of the po is hardly surprising! Having recentl successful dinner dance with enterta

by Tony Justice, they are also p future events, so keep a look out f

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

ojacar

Merry Christmas to All Our Customers

PR Building Services All Aspects of building, construction & Carpentry

Landscaping, maintenance & Swimming Pools over 15yrs experience The highest standard of workmanship

a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

vice please don’t hesitate to contact nd viewing of previous works can be

e you looking for a new style, a new irdresser is offering the same great g all Males… Come on down and get RBER, open Monday – Friday, 9.30am K7 Estate agents on Mojacar Playa.

with its sister company have been on Mojacar Playa for over 18 years. go it was inevitable they would set up whole family. D match with its three s to be seen out and about installing air conditioning units, solar hot water the summer they also sell portable

the new with old tew with fs David d fresh ega deli be a big ortions it ly held a ainment planning for their

latest news in their advertising. Bay Bistro are at present taking bookings for their five course Christmas lunch, so if you want a fine dining experience in a relaxed atmosphere give them a call - we also have a piper to bring in the bells! Give them a call on 628 761 391.

Voila de Lima’s are a family run business with the resources and experience to cover all of your furniture removals, storage and even buying and selling. At Voila de Lima’s we are able to move furniture both locally and internationally using our fleet of sizeable vehicles.

Removals are not as simple as it may appear. It does not just mean lifting and shifting of furniture. These goods are your prized possessions, accumulated over many years of hard work. We at Voila de Lima’s, never forget this and treat all your items with care and attention. You can contact us on the telephone numbers in our advert or by email enquiries@delimas.biz. We look forward to hearing from you!

fully legal, professional & Reliable

ladies... a new style... a new look... a new you Same Great Service at New Lower Prices!!!

Monday - Friday 09.30 to 5.00

Tel:

667 961 645

Near Los Arcos and K7 Estate Agents Mojacar Playa

is calling all males too!

References Available Call Richard on 608 673 681 or 662 422 170

Bay ay b bistro istro B ALL NEW PRE-Christmas Menu Traditional Turkey Dinner With All The Trimmings - Available Lunchtimes & Evenings Until 24th Dec

New for Sunday!!!

Sunday del Dia Special

Bookings now being taken for Christmas Lunch

Bookings now being taken for traditional scottish new year celebrations Starring Tony Justice

3 courses ONLY 9.95€ Also available “A La Carte” and “Deli Sandwich” menu

Tel: 950 450628 199761 / 628 Tel: 391761 391

t: 950 472 154

ters and

pas Pool ya have ing Pool ometers, own and 845

21

s ’ a p i

P

LOCATED AT THE REAR OF THE PARQUE COMMERCIAL OVERLOOKING THE MOUNTAINS. 2ND FLOOR BETWEEN KODAK & VETS

ANITA’S RANGE OF AUTHENTIC INDIAN CURRIES MADE FROM RAW INGREDIENTS, NOT PASTE OR PREMADE, ARE BACK AND AS POPULAR AS EVER, CHOOSE FROM LAMB, CHICKEN OR BEEF

FRIDAY NIGHT CHIP SHOP

BATTERED COD, CHIPS & MUSHY PEAS 5.00€ BREADED HADDOCK CHIPS & PEAS 6.00€ SCAMPI, CHIPS & SALAD 7.50€

QUIZ NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY 7.00PM

FULL RANGE OF SNOWDONIA CHEESES PLUS WEST COUNTRY MATURE 200G BLOCKS @ 2.25€ ANITA’S RANGE OF HOME-BAKED TREATS. 3 OR 4 DIFFERENT QUICHES IN BOTH FAMILY & INDIVIDUAL SIZES, CORNISH PASTIES, TUNA WRAPS, SAUASAGE ROLLS, PORK PIES, SCOTCH EGGS, FRUIT PIES, INDIVIDUAL SPECIALITY TARTS, TAKE-AWAY VERSIONS OF LASAGNA, CHILLI, SHEPHERDS PIE AND HER EVER POPULAR RANGE OF MEAT PIES: IN STEAK, STEAK & KIDNEY & CHICKEN & MUSHROOM

legal motor property parque Commercial Mojacar Playa - Local 87 (2nd floor) 04638 Mojacar (Almeria)

950 479 613 - 634 322 827 Wills INHERITANCE CONVEYancING NOTARY

NIE & RESIdENCY LAND REGISTRY CATASTRO LIQUIDATIONS

CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP Re-Register your vehicle in Spain SPANISH D. LICENSE Cars, Motorbikes, Boats, Lorries...

Documents Renewal SPANISH NUMBER PLATES ITV (MOT) - ROAD TAX FREE ITV appointments ENGINEERING REPORTS info@mslegal.es - www.mslegal.es - SPANISH & ENGLISH spoken

22

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

OPEN for business

tel: 950 930 900 968 969 962 Solar Oil Gas Solid Fuel pellet

Solar Hot Water & Pool Heating Full Heating Installations Water Treatment Systems Water Deposits & Pumps

fully legal company with public liability insurance carlos.saliente@gmail.com • www.carlossaliente.com Cortijo Pipa, Avda de Limaria 1, Limaria, arboleas

Obama pushes tax-the-rich plan

US President Barack Obama has addressed Michigan car workers to build support for his plan to raise taxes on the rich and avert a looming “fiscal cliff”.

The visit follows faceto-face meetings with Republican House Speaker John Boehner at the White House on Sunday.

After their first private talks since Mr Obama won re-election, both sides said communication lines “remain open”.

Deep spending cuts and

tax rises due to take effect on 1 January threaten to derail US economic recovery.

Extended benefits for the long-term unemployed and a temporary cut to payroll taxes are also scheduled to expire at the same time.

International observers, such as Christine Lagarde, head of the International Monetary Fund, have warned that there would be ripple effects for the rest of the world if US lawmakers are not able to agree to a deal.

POOL SHOP

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Mr Obama’s appearance at a car factory outside Detroit was his latest public outreach effort to sell a plan that would increase taxes for the rich while extending Bush-era tax cuts for everyone else.

During Monday’s campaign-style event he told auto-workers that while he was prepared to negotiate on some issues, he “won’t compromise” on tax rises. He avoided criticising Republicans directly.

Mr Obama promised Democrats would “make some tough spending cuts on things that we don’t need” as part of his budget plans, but he did not mention any specific cuts by name.

Without action by Congress, the president said, middle-class families would see a $2,200 (£1,369) rise in taxes in 2013.

“That’s a hit you can’t afford to take,” he said,

Mr Obama also waded into the contentious issue of “right-to-work” laws in Michigan - a law backed by state lawmakers on Friday under which employees in a unionised workplace can refuse to join the union or pay union dues.

Proponents say the proposals will bring more jobs and economic benefits to Michigan, while opponents say the laws are designed to weaken unions and lead to lower wages.

On Monday, Mr Obama sided with the unions fighting right-to-work.

“These so-called ‘right to work’ laws, they don’t have to do with economics, they have everything to do with politics,” Mr Obama said.

“What they’re really talking about is giving you the right to work for less money.”

Continue reading the article at www.bbc.co.uk

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

HSBC to pay $1.9bn in US money laundering penalties

HSBC has confirmed it is to pay US authorities $1.9bn (£1.2bn) in a settlement over money laundering, the largest paid in such a case.

A US Senate investigation said the UK-based bank had been a conduit for “drug kingpins and rogue nations”.

Money laundering is the process of disguising the proceeds of crime so that the money cannot be linked to the wrongdoing.

HSBC admitted having poor money laundering controls and apologised.

“We accept responsibility for our past mistakes,” said HSBC group chief executive Stuart Gulliver in a statement.

“We have said we are profoundly sorry for them, and we do so again.”

The bank said it had spent $290m on improving its systems to prevent money laundering and clawed back some bonuses paid to senior executives in the past. It also said it expected to reach an agreement with the UK’s Financial Services Authority shortly.

Last month it announced it had set aside $1.5bn to cover the costs of any settlement or fines. The news followed the announcement of a similar but much smaller settlement with UKbased Standard Chartered bank, which will pay $300m in fines for violating US sanctions.

The cases are seen as part of a crackdown on money laundering and sanctions violations being led by federal government agencies and New York state authorities.

The settlement had been widely expected following a report by the US Senate, published earlier this year, that was heavily critical of HSBC’s money laundering controls.

The report alleged that: HSBC in the US had not treated its Mexican affiliate as high risk, despite the country’s money laundering and drug trafficking challenges

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The Mexican bank had transported $7bn in US bank notes to HSBC in the US, more than any other Mexican bank, but had not considered that to be suspicious It had circumvented US safeguards designed to block transactions involving terrorists drug lords and rogue states, including allowing 25,000 transactions over seven years without disclosing their links to Iran Providing US dollars and banking services to some banks in Saudi Arabia despite their links to terrorist financing In less than four years it had cleared $290m in “obviously suspicious” US travellers’ cheques for a Japanese bank, benefiting Russians who claimed to be in the used car business The report suggested HSBC accounts in Mexico and the US were being used by drug barons to launder money.

“The banks became very overextended, not just in lending on property, which we all know about, but in this case, for example, buying businesses in Mexico about which, it turned out, they knew too little,” Sir John Gieve, former deputy governor of the Bank of England told the BBC. The Senate report also said HSBC regularly circumvented restrictions on dealings with Iran, North Korea, and other states subject to US sanctions.

BBC business editor Robert Peston said that as big as the $1.9bn penalty looks, it could have been much worse.

“HSBC has signed a Deferred Prosecution Agreement for breaches of the US Bank Secrecy Act, the Trading with the Enemy Act and assorted money laundering offences. This is in effect putting the bank on probation,” he said.

“But if HSBC had been indicted for these offences, that would have meant that the US government and others could no longer have conducted business with it, which would have been humiliating and highly damaging.”

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...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

25

THE SPAINIAC | El Albaicín | Candice Parsons It was 42 degrees.

On a hill, which my map indicated as somewhere above Cuesta de Chapiz, I’d found a bench under a leafy tree to lie back and rest my legs on. As I stared into the hazy and faded blue sky, the thick layer of heat from the scorching Spanish sun seeped through the branches above, wafting down on to me.

I was sure I’d severely sprained or inflamed a muscle in my left ankle hours ago, but had continued exploring whilst the injury exacerbated. The el-cheapo Primark summer sandals I’d brought were not suited for this cobblestoned wonderland.

A maze of narrow winding streets lined with homes of secluded gardens and white-washed walls hung with ivies and bougainvilleas, made up the spectacular panorama view of the Albaicín below me. I’d lost myself down there; walking, wandering and exploring up and down countless steep hills and paths for around six hours straight, yet still felt I hadn’t covered all there was to see in this ancient enchanting neighbourhood.

At this point, I was fathoming the reality of soon having to face the long, twisty maze again with an injured ankle, and hobble my way back down to Gran Via de Colόn - a main road of central Granada (I soon after discovered a shuttle bus that took me down for one euro).

Translating to ‘quarter of the falconers’, whilst historians prefer ‘quarter of the people of Baeza’, Albaicín was the old Moorish quarter of Granada during the thirteenth century.

After eight centuries of Moorish occupation here, only few medieval Arabic houses, mosques and baths remain intact. Various Christian churches and relics within the district, divulge the struggle Andalucía faced during its Islam to Christianity transition.

Today, the Albaicín is a UNESCO World Heritage site along with the Alhambra.

Dizzy, dehydrated and famished; I hadn’t eaten since

8AM and it was now almost 5PM. My stomach felt like it was eating itself, and I’d left my bottle of water back at the famous Mirador San Nicolás viewpoint. It was siesta and everything was closed, so I couldn’t find any food or drink to buy around this area either.

I was alone in Spain and not a living soul was in sight on this hill. I sunk deep into thought, absorbing exactly where I was in this beautiful and insane world, and felt an incredible sense of thrill, fortuity and happiness to be right there where I was in Spain, on that bench in Granada.

I recalled on the rows of little markets I’d seen that morning whilst meandering my way up the steep hill that led into the Albaicín. With various delicacies, teas, trinkets, and clothes being sold amongst the sweet fumes of flavoured shisha and other Arabic sweets and street food, I took great pleasure in seeing the familiar resemblance of the traditional ‘souks’ (markets) that I’d often walked through during my visit to Morocco.

It was admirable to see such raw culture still alive and appreciated in this once religiously conflicted city of southern Spain.

Perhaps the lack of food and water together with the heat and pain from my ankle had caused a slight delirium. Nevertheless, it’s not often we stop and take the time to appreciate where we actually are or what we have personally achieved for ourselves, and whether slightly delirious or not, this is what I was doing.

I lay in complete tranquillity, whilst the sounds of soft breeze, birds chirping and children playing in the distant Albaicín and Sacromonte neighbourhoods surrounded as a background melody to my thoughts. Indeed a description that sounds too surreal to have been true, but also felt as such too.

Candice Parsons is a writer and avid Spain and Spanish culture lover from Melbourne, Australia: follow her on Twitter @MiLlamoCandi

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

coffee break STANDARD CROSSWORD

down

2 Pertaining to insurance risks and premiums (9) 3 Type of vine (5) 4 Ruthless (9) 5 Pertaining to Scandinavia (5) 6 Conducts business (9) 7 Sea (5) 8 Methods, schemes, procedures (7) 9 Banquets (6) 15 Amount by which something decreases (9) 17 Prediction (9) 18 A nearby galaxy (9) 19 Ball-shaped (7) 21 Anything having existence (6) 23 Pork strips (5) 24 Piling (5) 26 Sound (5)

5 Loud, drunken Elsa? It’s not true! (5) 6 Hunger caused by a first-rate tax - one in operation after ‘The Way’ (10) 7 Covering many things, or just one person? (8) 13 Customs almost swap it with particles (10) 15 They hear ears (9) 17 Gets ready for quiet fixes, we hear (8) 19 Heavy with number (7) 22 One with not a friend outside might be this (6) 23 A lot of burdens (5) 26 Quiet number returning to vessel (4)

Down 1 Go over new furrow (6) 2 Turn little Benjamin with daughter! (4) 3 Blokes for Spooner’s crazy Jenny (9) 4 Stroked a good man, OK, getting embarassed on the outside! (7)

Very Hard!

CRYPTIC crossword

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

8 Most short beers fit when drunk! (8) 9 Mutu turning up in a new fall (6) 10 Circumstances of 100 vegetables taking the turning tide (almost) (10) 11 Uncommon for run-time to be over (4) 12 The Free-Ad production having plumage! (9) 14 Comes down by 9 seconds (5) 16 One talking at the top with hesitation, after stuttering at first (7) 18 Affected Mrs Ali and I alike (7) 20 Start to live on drink! (5) 21 Reportedly ruined fish shape (9) 24 A mode of transport, thanks to a football team? (4) 25 Instrument is in final song for orchestration (10) 27 Some clean edifices are slanted! (6) 28 Mostly, Bill and Terry produce awfully! (8)

SUDOKU PUZZLE

Sudoku is a placement puzzle. Enter the numbers 1 to 9 in each row and column of a grid, made up of 3 x 3 subgrids. The catch is that each row, column and grid must contain only one instance of each number or letter.

1 Delusions (14) 10 Additional (5) 11 Menaces (9) 12 Chief sun god (Assyrian mythology) (7) 13 The central theme (7) 14 Glided over snow (5) 16 People in authority (9) 19 Lawyer (9) 20 Move sideways (5) 22 Israelites (7) 25 Harbor (7) 27 Moving up quickly (9) 28 Inhabited (5) 29 In accordance with fundamental law (14)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

HARD SUDOKU

Across

Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment. Buddha

STANDARD SUDOKU

26

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

The makingofAChristmasCarol Probably the most popular story for and festival christmas carols for the

this time of year, A Christmas Carol,

by Charles Dickens, is in rehearsals, in preparation for the performances at the New Kimrick Theatre after Christmas. Otfried Laux, the Director of this production follows on from the success of Oliver, adding a few more tricks to this timeless classic.

As usual there are many special effects included in his productions and for this Otfried has a team of experienced and multi talented people working behind the scenes in order to realise his ideas. Otfried has his own individual style of Directing and has used improvisation workshops to define the characters and their roles within the play. The original script was revised and rewritten for the present day by MarianMay and the actors are encouraged to follow the new script, whilst also making further changes when necessary as their roles are developed further. The actors then begin the rehearsals and the behind the scenes work begins.

The music and sound effects are very important in order to create the correct atmosphere and link the scenes together and Steve Fear from Bay Radio, has once again provided all the appropriate sounds effects for this. It is a long and arduous task for him, as he has to search for the right sounds from archives of thousands.

He then has to download, order and slot them into the correct time frame.

He uses a mixture of modern music

happier moments in the play. Harps, street sounds, cathedral chimes, school bell, bird sounds, winds and whispering voices provide for every mood, crossing over the scenes and creating the correct atmosphere for each moment, as the story unfolds, cleverly matching the music and sounds to the words spoken by the characters.

Tony Vasey, Wardrobe manager for the Indalo Players has worked hard utilising many of the costumes in stock, sorting , labelling and making sure that they are in good condition providing the mix of modern and period designs required for the story.

When all this comes together music,lighting, costume and acting, we will have another fabulous production and then all we need is you, the audience to make it all worthwhile - The ideal Christmas present for all the family.

The performance will be held at the New Kimrick Theatre from Friday 18th to Monday 21st January at 8pm with a matinee at 3.30pm on both Saturday and Sunday. A seating plan for the theatre can be seen on the Indalo web site by clicking on: www. facebook.com/pages/Indalo-PlayersEl-Teatro-Mojacar Tickets are on sale as from Monday 17th December

By Marian May

V

La

Cucador

idaRestaurant&Venue THIS SATURDAY 15 th Decem ber

christmas eve wist6h€JC

christmas dinner & d with j&J mance usic 7

ticket

hicken & includes c hilli & rice c r o s ip h c

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o course call for m meal 10.95 enu details

h n from eac 1€ donatio to vera ticket sale orphanage

christmas lunchtime PARTY menu

christmas day lunch

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UNTIL 21st december 12.:30-4pm

6 courses

Rob, Chrissie & all the team at La Vida, would like to wish you a Merry Christmas & thank you for your custom during 2012

live music

call or email for gs menu details & bookin !

ONLY A FEW TABLES LEFT

A Big ‘Doggy’ Thank You!

Fritz, Fifi, Ben and Ginger, the almost human dogs who appeared in the Almanzora Charitable Theatre production of “It’s a Dogs Life” by Pam Valentine would like to express their thanks to the real human audience who came to see them perform. They are tremendously pleased that the performance at “La Parilla” in Albox on the 30th November raised 502.00 euros for APSA and at “The Tennis Club” in Huercal Overa 165 euros was raised for “The Doghouse.” This, of course, will help to feed hungry puppies such as “Ginger” and might even get Fifi a good trim.

Those who came to see the play might like to know that Fritz has been kept well away from children and is believed to be patrolling the perimeter of camp Bastian in Afghanistan and is completely at home with the searchlights and barbed wire. Fifi has been adopted by a local panaderia/bolleria owner so “titbits” are in plentiful supply.

Ginger is still chewing slippers but sits and begs perfectly. Ben was laid to rest next to his owner.

It could not have been a better outcome - money for the dogs and good homes. Finally, the director, Ron Makin and the cast would like to thank everyone concerned for making the production a great success. If anyone would like to know more about our drama group please call Lorraine on 950 064 484 or 687 569 113.

If you would like to help APSA in any way you can contact them on 663 762 642 and The Doghouse on 626 766 073

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28

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

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indulge in ‘egg nog!’

Egg nog has been around for ages: it was most likely invented back in the days when America was still a British colony. The name “egg nog” would in this case stem from “egg grog” – grog was the name the colonists used for rum. Not everyone agrees, though; some historians claim the drink originated in Europe, and was later exported to

Y A D L L A N E P O MONDAY Traditional christmas lunch 5 Courses ONLY 35€ pp (booking essential)

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the future United States. As per this explanation, the term “nog” would derive from “noggin”, a wooden cup in which drinks were served. The drink itself would be an evolution of “dry sack posset”, a mixture of sherry and milk.

What is certain though is that egg nog is traditionally made with eggs, milk and sugar – and usually a generous dose of some sort of alcohol, most commonly rum, whiskey, brandy or cognac.

Egg nog can be ‘personalized’ to suit your own taste by adding spices (nutmeg and cinnamon are the most popular) and by adding cream, to make the drink thicker and richer.

Egg nog has become popular all over the world: the Mexicans, for example, call it “rompope”.

Rompope is your basic egg nog with plenty of Mexican cinnamon, ground almonds and rum stirred in. It is traditionally drunk cold from little glasses.

In Puerto Rico, egg nog is made with coconut milk instead of regular cow’s milk, which gives it a particularly exotic flavour.

And if all this talk about egg nog has given you a taste for the stuff, here’s a recipe, so you can get started straight away! Enjoy…

Space is still available for

CHRISTMAS LUNCH

Ingredients:

6 eggs, 1 cup of sugar, ½ tsp of vanilla extract, , ¼ tsp of ground nutmeg ¾ cup of brandy, 1/3 cup of rum (preferably 2 dark), 2 cups of milk, . cups of cream

Preparation:

Chill all the liquids . Beat the eggs un till they become fro thy. Gradually be at in the sugar, vanilla and nutmeg. St ir in the milk, cream, brandy and rum .

Chill before serving.

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Under New Management

29

Traditional Takeaway Fish & Chips

Opening Hours 12:30-9pm Tues-Sat Opposite Iceland Car Park,Vera

Tel: 667 333 361 www.thechippyvera.com

Saturday Night Meal Deals

2 x Cod or Haddock & Chips Only 10€ Bar Internacional has re-opened under new management with Andrea & Fernando

Open 9:30am til’ late, situated on the Albox-Baza Road (A334), adjacent to the Saturday Car Boot site, Bar Internacional Diner offers a great range of food and drink in a family-friendly atmosphere...warm yourself by the cosy log fire, or on warmer days, enjoy the large outside terrace...

Andrea & Fernando are working towards creating an authentic diner style eating experience, offering Spanish, English & international cuisine.

2 x Pie & Chips Only 7€

2 x Sausage or Savaloy or Chicken Nuggets or Fish Cakes & Chips - only 5€

COME AND MEET ANDREA FERNAND& IN THEIR O DINER-STNEW YLE BAR/RES TAURANT

More offers Available: Please Come In & See Us for Details

Great Food at Great Prices Tel: 633 684 855

With an all-day ‘Menu del Dia’ option, food is served until 9pm.

They also offer a Kid’s Menu which includes Nuggets, Burgers & Pizza’s as well as dessert & fruit options.

The Diner can also be booked to celebrate a birthday or anniversary.

Andrea & Fernando want to hear from you if you would like to host a Bingo or Quiz night at the Diner; why not hold your Darts or Pool competition there too?

Hugo Formerly of Cafe Bar International La Alfoquia, Plaza Santa Ana (Opposite the Old Station)

Open Everyday 9.30am - 11pm (except Monday) Kitchen open 9.30am - 4pm, 7 - 11pm

now showing all champions league & la liga games

Sunday Lunch

~ FORTHCOMING EVENTS ~

Served 2 - 6pm

Choose from Beef, Pork or Chicken with all the trimmings!

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY NIGHT (INCL. BUFFET) TICKETS: 12€ IN ADVANCE - 15€ ON THE DOOR

Kentucky

HOG ROAST - 5TH JANUARY 2013 ~ DANCE CLASSES - Time/date To Be Confirmed

Pizzas

Fried Chicken eat in or take away

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL

ANDREA ON 690 828 520 OR FERNANDO ON 646 690 111

From €4,95

Eat in or Take Away Tuesday - Sunday from 7pm

now serving GuiNness & strongbow

 barinternacionaldiner@gmail.com or keep up to date on Facebook: Bar Internacional Diner

FREE

fORMERLY rUMORES

MENU DEL DIA

onl y served 12 - 3 except Fri & Sun €

2 Courses

5

traditional paella (min2 people)

ALBOX

Cod ‘n’ Chip fridayS Beer-battered Atlantic Cod, Homemade Chips, Mushy or Garden Peas…

Fridays & Saturdays 12 - 9pm

Bar Menu, Snacks & Home-made puddings Including Burgers, Lasagne, Omelettes, chilli

from

All Day Breakfast from 9am

traditional served 12.30 - 5pm SUNDAY LUNCH

Delicious & Home-cooked

Topside of beef & Yorkshire pudding roast Pork with crackling and apple sauce tender roast TURKEY with stuffing local grown potatoes , seasonal vegetables glass of house wine, tubo of beer or a coffee

starters, puddings 2€

onl y 6.95€

5.95€

Includes FREE Tea or Coffee

each

Friday & Saturday Evenings Restaurant Open 6pm-9pm

Menu From 5.95€ SUNDAY BREAKFAST

to include a FREE Drink

SERVED 10AM-12PM

ALBOX

•••

← ARBOLEAS BAZA → Av•••AL . L BOX ep an to → jacksalbox@gmail.com

OPEN 9AM-LATE MON-SAT 10-6 SUN

@

BP Garage

950 120 718 / 610 641 567

30

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

FRANKIE’S bar Hotel Street, Vera Playa

Sky Sports and ESPN HD Sports

sunday 23rd December

Christmas Lunch 3 courses €15 per person

christmas eve New years eve disco party disco party with

with

steve king free buffet 9.30 - late

steve king free buffet

cava & grapes at midnight

Tel: 662 47 48 61

showbar & restaurant

The Irish Rover

Your No1 Entertainment Venue in Mojacar for All the Family

Bee Gees tribute thursday 29th november

Tickets 15€ includes carvery Ticket only €8.50

eve New yearsthe Playa

The IRISH ROVER on Mojacar Playa serves the Full English Breakfast from 10am – 1pm. 8 items €4.95 or 14 items €6.95! includes tea, coffee or orange juice on a large sunny terrace with fantastic views over the sea. Sundays is the Famous Irish Rover carvery, 3 meats, 7 fresh veg served 1 – 5pm plus a fun quiz. Get that Friday Feeling and come along to the Irish Rover and enjoy Fresh Cod & Chips for a fantastic price of just 4.95€ Bookings are now being taken for Christmas Day Lunch, 3 course carvery lunch at the fantastic price of €20 per person and just €12.50 for children up to 10 years old. Call in for our Christmas lunch menu and for reservations call 950 473 135.

The Crazy Cow Bar / Cafe on Mojacar Playa have a New Menu available. Serving old favourites such as Fishcakes, Smoked fish in cream sauce and Cottage pie as well as newcomers are Mixed seafood spaghetti, Vegetarian rice and Chicken and mushroom bake, most of our menu is gluten free. You wont be disappointed ...

Just ask your friends. FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CALL 697 465 620 . Great venue for Private Functions.

Beachcomber Mojacar Entertainment for Wednesday 5th December will be a Tribute night to the.60’s & 70’s with a load of ‘Rock n Roll’ from The Everly Brothers, Elvis, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, to Dire Straits…and loads more! We can organise taxis for you, it is always safer to book in advance and we can do this if you wish, both ways if you like. We can even

free wifi

The best party on

help you book a hotel. On Wednesday 19th December sees ‘Rough Justice’ at The Beachcomber with tributes to Dire Straits, Chris Rae & Carlos Santana. And a load of ‘Blues and Light Rock’ (First time at the Beachcomber).

We are now taking bookings for New Years Eve at the Beachcomber featuring Darren Antony with live music from 9.15pm until 1am. Check out the menu on www. beachcombermojacar.com Call now to reserve your table on 950 473 099.

The Food Crazy cow Cafe cooked with love

Downstairs on the sea front next to the Irish Rover Look out for our live entertainment evenings

All food freshly cooked to order You will not be disappointed!

NEW MENU With all your old favourites Kitchen Open From 12 noon to 6.30pm Winter Opening Times Mon - Sat 11am - late Closed Sunday PRIVATE PARTIES CATERED FOR

sunday Roast menu of the day

Whitney Houston Tribute

tickets 35€

inc hot & cold buffet. Cava & grapes at midnight. Disco till the early hours telephone: 950 473 135

. . .

T U O B A & T OU

mojacar playa between Lua & Moma Beach Open 10am till late

3 courses €10 3 course - €10.50 main course - €7.50 menu of the night

Bar open 10am - LATE Food served all day from 10.30am Last orders 4pm

3 courses €11.50

regular TRIBUTE SHOWS see website for details

WE ARE OPPOSITE PLAYA BLANCA, MOJACAR PLAYA SEE YOU THERE XX Tel: 697 465 620 Email: crazycowcafe@yahoo.com thecrazycowcafe

tel: 950 473 099 www.beachcombermojacar.com

ANNOUNCING A CHRISTMAS GALA AT THE LOS LLANOS MARKET   WE WILL BE OPEN FROM 9am until 6pm on saturday 15th december & 9am until 2pm on sunday 16th december

henna

tattoo’s

HAPPY HOUR BETWEEN

3.3O - 5.00PM ON SATURDAY WITH GREAT DEALS ON FOOD & DRINK

COME & BUY

  

BRING THE CHILDREN TO MEET 

YOUR

FATHER CHRISTMAS BETWEEN

S T F I G S A M T S I R CH A VARIETY OF STALLS

FROM LINGERIE, , E M U F R E P SELLING ELLERY, W E J , Y R E T T O P NY MORE A M & S T F A HANDICR THE USUAL G IN L L E S S L L STA ITEMS...

3.30PM & 5.30PM ON SATURDAY 15TH

THEY CAN ALSO EN JOY A CHRISTMAS TREASURE HUNT, PLAY ON THE BOUNCY CASTLE , EXPERIENCE FACE PAINTING OR LEARN POTTERY SKILLS WHILST THE GROWN UPS CAN ENJOY A DRINK & SOME GREAT FOOD AT THE MAIN LOS LLANOS BAR



Regency Snooker

de Arboleas

HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE!

Los Llanos

Bar Rosaleda

Albox Road from Arboleas

Amigos Bowling

Bar Internacional

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIME DECEMBER 2012

31

COMMUNITY NEWS Living Water Church Mojacar....

HUERCAL OVERA CLUB DE FUTBOL FINAL HOME GAME OF THE YEAR Saturday 15th December at 16:30 Huercal Overa CF Vs C.D Bullense Doors open at 15:30 The club will also be collecting Christmas Gifts for the less fortunate Children of Huercal Overa at the Entrance of the stadium between 15:30 and kick off!

If you would like to donate a gift to make a child smile this Christmas please bring along to the stadium in Huercal Overa.

For more information contact Lee on 671509116 or email: lee@r-gconsultants.com www.huercaloveracf.com

extend a warm welcome to all as we celebrate this Christmas time. Carol Service Wednesday 19th at 6.00pm followed by a hot meal. Christmas Sunday Service for the family on the 23rd at 11.00am. Christmas Communion Tuesday 25th at 11.00am For more information phone Margaret on 950477063 Opposite Red Cross Centre on Mojacar Playa

After-school Activity Group

Dames in Turre.............................

Starts Friday 11th Jan 2013

have a few places left on their visit to Granada from the 8th to the 10th January.130€ per person staying at the 4 star Hotel Carmen in the centre of Granada .The cost includes coach travel, Half Board in the Hotel and lunch on the way home. All are welcome to join us....please telephone Lesley 950478633 or email lesleiom@yahoo.co.uk

Every Friday 3.30pm – 6pm.

Indigo Gym, Mojacar Playa.

Children 4yrs – 9yrs. €10 per child or €15 for 2, which includes a drink & snack.

Fun and games including, Bomba, Pirates, Tug-o-War, & fun exercises.

(English & Spanish).

Traditional candlelit carol service........................................... followed by mulled wine and mince pies at 7pm on Friday December 14. Turre Evangelical Church right at the end if the main road, Avenida de Turre past the gym and the vets. 950 617 549. Christmas Day service 11.30am12.30pm.

Call 664 291 793 or 646 844 708 now to reserve your childs place.

The Anglican Church

(Mojacar) held its Christmas Fair last Friday at a new venue.

The weather was rather cold, this not stop people coming to see if they could get a bargain.

Thanks must go to all the stallholders(some dressed the part) and other church members who helped to make it a good day. Raised €3700. Thanks also go to Mojacar council for the help. also to Chris and Mick for organising this event.

This sadly was the last Church Fair our Priest Hugh Broad will be at and he called the winning ticket at the raffle( thanks to those who donated prizes)

The Dames in Turre Christmas Market

was held in brilliant sunshine on Saturday morning. This was the 10th year the market was celebrated and the best yet ; a total of more than 2500€ was raised for local charities. A variety of stalls sold Christmas gifts, paintings and festive food. The Fundraiser shop in Turre provided a Santa Claus Grotto for local children and Bay radio entertained with festive music. The Dames would like to thank all those who contributed prizes for the Draw which helped to make the day such a great success.

CHRISTMAS FUN QUIz.....................

at The Arriba bar/restaurant, Mojacar Playa on Thursday 20th December. Food available from 7pm.... question-master Tony Matthews

Paws Shop......................................

The Shop will be closed from 25th December and re-open on 7th January. We would like to thank all newspapers, radio, volunteers and most of all the public for all their support during 2012. Merry Christmas to each and every one!

The Universal Wonderful Street Academy Fundraising Lunch Sunday 16th December at the New Kimrick Restaurant, Mojácar Playa

…includes a presentation of the NGO, sales of African Crafts & Arts, Raffle and much more!!

HOW CAN YOU HELP...

By becoming a MEMBER, monthly membership Junior

La

V

QUIRKY idaVenue QUIZZES Monday

5€, Senior 10€...By SPONSORING A CHILD with a monthly contribution of 15€...You can make a SINGLE CONTRIBUTION according to your possibilities...You can VISIT US IN GHANA. We will arrange the travel for you and will make sure you experience the african culture in full...You can participate in our VOLUNTEERING PROGRAMS...Your COMPANY can SPONSOR any of our charity fundraising events...PERSONAL CONTRIBUTION, you decide how much and how often you want to support...EVEN A SMALL DONATION CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE TO THE CHIDREN WE ARE SUPPORTING.!! Thank You! For further information please contact Beatriz: 617 182 154 or Marta 610 378 348 Or email: info@universalwonderfulstreetacademy.org Or visit: www.universalwonderfulstreetacademy.org NGO supporting street children in Africa.

Registration Nº: CG027972012 TIN: C000114829X

we’ve managed to unearth ~ which might even be considered an art form by some ~ the word is VACCIMULGENCE. So you will need to establish what it means, and once you’ve found it, it will score your team a point in next week’s La Vida quiz!

Bring your friends ~ Beat your neighbours

evenings - 7.30 for 8.00 pM Just 1.50€ to enter

sEE OUR MAIN AD ON PG 27 for directions

CA$H BINGO WITH GED PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT CASH PRIZES SPOT PRIZES CASH ROLLOVER JACKPOT ALL WELCOME TUESDAYS 7.30 - 8PM EYES DOWN

Irene

Unmissable offer!

Free Bottle

of La Mancha Red or white wine per couple to take away with any of our night menus

Valid only with this voucher Mon - Sat: 19.00 - 22.00

Workshops

Cucador

This week we have another odd word that

Mesón de

#

The idea was born after four Spanish friends from Mojácar and Granada had visited the country to participate in a volunteering program with a local organization and found out that there was a huge number of children who lived in extreme poverty and were left to fend for themselves most of them living in James Town a very poor and illiterate community area of Accra.

Our key objectives are to provide free basic education to max. 100 children, eventually to facilitate them access to formal education or vocational training school; to provide a nutritionally complete balanced daily meal for each child and to provide a Health Card for each child, ensuring him/her of medical treatment under Ghana´s State health care programme.

The Academy is lacking in resources. As it is a non-profit organization, it depends on sporadic donations coming from companies, individuals and volunteers.

fORMERLY rUMORES

ALBOX

new quirky quiz on tuesdays 7.30 - 8pm WITH chERRY

Carrying on from Mondays @ La Vida

All Welcome

Cash winner & wooden spoon

Bingo

Wednesday 2.30pm

cash prizes & roll-over jackpot

WITH GED eyes down &

play your cards right CHRISTMAS BINGO - 19TH DECEMBER LOTS OF CHRISTMAS SPOT SURPRISES

sculpturing

by Maria van Enckevort Talleres de escultura Where? In Los Alamos in MI CORAZON When? On Tuesdays & Fridays from 10.00 till 14.00

On Thurdays from 17.00 till 21.00

150€ for a course of 10 sessions incl. use of tools, coffee or tea. Various stones for 1,50€ per kilo ?Donde? En Los Alamos en MI CORAZON ?Cuando? Martes y Viernes de 10.00 hasta 13.00

Jueves de 17.00 hasta 20.00

150€ por un curso de 10 clases incl. materiales, y bebidas. Diferente piedras a 1,50 euro de kilo

m.vanenckevort@gmail.com Call: 950 064 669

32

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

SOL CLASSIFIEDS Airport services

Airport services Airport, social & shopping run.

Telelephone 663 429 521

www.AAparking.es Tel: 639 081 067

Cheap

25 years sole experience in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

not a jack of all trades

For all your installation or service MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L offers requirements including our latest info@md-aircon.com telephone 950 432 110 / 607 364 917

607 364 917 or 950 432 110 email: info@md-aircon.com

md_aircon@mobileemail.vodafone.es

alternative energy Solar Wind Power Solutions.

Always offers on Solar panels, Over 15 years installation ex p e r i e n c e Call Phil for competitive prices 636 261 240 email:info@ s un e r g ya l m e r i a . com www.sunergy almeria.com

Everything for

the visiting baby Car seats,high chairs, stair gates, cots etc

Tel: 950 436 581 or 666 375 688 expectingababy@hotmail.co.uk INTERNAL & EXTERNAL BLINDS SHADING SPAIN, WITH...

Call Justin at Sol Shaders for a free no obligation quote Tel: 627 907 207 www.solshaders.net Email: solshaders@live.co.uk

beauty

avon

cosmetics

claire

Tel: 691 987 454 avonfromclaire@ yahoo.es

business opportunity To rent. Small Bar/Restaurant on the beach, Roquetas Marina. Includes all fixtures and fittings. 1,000€ per month plus IVA. Tel: 663 426 921

chimney sweep SAMMY SWEEP Chimney Sweep Service available covering all areas call paul on 619 070 839

computers Steve Hayes Informatica

Pc’s, Laptops, Printers etc.

Sales & Repairs on-site callout / tuition.

Consumables Albox, Almeria

Tel: 950 120 900

potty finca services professional tree felling & pruning, including all types of palm trees

Mat Murray 647 841 750 matmurrayes@gmail.com established in spain for 14 years

fully legal

Constructions

Martinez moreno cb (Rambla de Oria) All types of building work undertaken inc plumbing & electrics

strimming of overgrown gardens & hedge cutting spanish registered. logs available ring john on 616 855 294 or 950 163 930

Baths & Drains • CCTV Surveys • Drain Tracing • Turbine Root Cutting • Blocked Cesspits

950 091 109 or 648 768 587 Cleaning of Septic Tanks • Emptying of Septic Tanks & Cesspits, with high pressure cleaning Only • Small unblockages of 100€ pipes & drainage Pool Cleaning & Water Tanks

Contact: 675 838 808

Drainage

neater heater See our main ad on the news pages Carlos (Saliente) plumbing & heating services. If it involves water, we can help! www.carlossaliente.com Tel: 968 969 962

house clearances

Call Cash & Carry Clearances Tel: 618 725 567 or 619 773 582

cashandcarry54@yahoo.co.uk

THE HOUSE CLEARING SPECIALIST

Immediate Cash. Quick decision. * We cover all areas * We turn up, give cash & carry * We buy almost anything – The Highest Cash Prices Paid **ONLY serious & immediate sellers should call please**

Tel: 679 207 545 or 636 411 540

hobby/craft

interpretor

E l a i n e ’ s Wools quality UK wool & accessories. Come & view my display Also available at Camposol, Mazarron Call 667 273 889 elaines wools@gmail.com

T r a n s l at o r English, Spanish French, Swedish Documents, Notary, Court, Legal Tel: 646 844 708 www.4way connections.webs. com

insurance

“we have grea offers on lifet insurance”

Solutions

• Emergency Drain Cleaning • High Pressure Water Jetting • CCTV Surveys • Drainage Repairs • Location of Cesspits • Qualified Engineer • Expert Reports

Established 7 years in spain

Tel: 616 531 283 or 670 088 966 electrical Knowles & Abbott

no.1 for electrics and plumbing. Re-wires, free to air UK satellite systems.

950 137 208 638 010 691

for sale

For more articles for sale visit www.soltimes.com under the business directories section

Westminster Chimes Mantel Clock 40€ Tel: 666 201 910 Gas Heater Infrared on casters.

Delonghi 4.2kw 3 settings 60€ Tel: 666 201 910 Folding Fire Guard.

Grass

Effect Finish 10€ 2 semi industrial Fagor Tel: 666 201 910 6 Patio Chairs, tumble dryers, only used for 3 months.

High back (White) Paid 2,500€ each.

30€ Tel: 666 201 Will accept 250€ 910 each or nearest S a l o m a n offer.

Telephone black ski boots, 666 717 742 size 37, 25€ ono christmas Tel: 603 209 177

shopping

heating

cash payment waiting for tel: 609 421 734 (Spanish) all your unwanted goods, also business stock tel: 696 052 044 (English) liquidations carried out

c a r l o s s a l i e n t e & plumbing heating for solar drainage pool heating, solar hot water installations and repairs. call 950 930 900 or 968 LICENSED POZO/CESSPIT EMPTYING 969 962, email • Installation of fibreglass septic tanks carlos.saliente@ • Blocked Toilets, Sinks, gmail.com

baby hire

blinds

construction

Servicing / Repairs

City & Guilds Fully Qualified F-Gas Certified

MD S.L

gardening

Airport Parking

MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L.

Classified box from 9€. lineage only 45 cents per word Deadline 5pm Friday Contact Paulette on 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 ext 332

construction

Alicante Almeria Murcia New

Air-con

trade Businesses can advertise in the classified section

glenn & jayne Formerly of Knights Insurance, C / Malaga, Albox ... are now exclusive agents for Liberty Seguros

same people - same great service - differeent name

Tel: 950 121 943

infoalbox.libertyseguros@gmail.com

iron/metal works

metal works

Gates, rejas, fabriction welding reliable service Telephone

950 069 208 or 638 449 944 adwelds@yahoo.com

The Metal works Grills, railings, gates of all types, security/sliding/ roller, rejas, concertina doors etc.

Tel: Keith Wood on

638 900 949

Now exhibiting at Los Llanos market, Arboleas every Saturday Tel: 950 120 077 Mob: 625 435 050 / 615 396 056 iron/metal works T & T Metals For all quality metal works, including gates, railings, rejas, staircases, gazebos & chainlink fencing - Tel: 950 431 738

locksmith Phil the Pick Locksmith 24 hours.

Locked Out? Locks fitted/ upgraded house safes. Arboleas & surrounding area.

Special weekend rates. Tel: 697 243 181

legal Need help with NIE / Residencias, Cadastre, Property Conveyancing, New Building Declarations, Notary, Wills etc Tel: 646 844 708 www.4way connections.webs.com

logs load of small or big Olive logs, no roots €160 load of mixed Olive some roots €140 load of eucalyptus, no roots €150 all loads 2 tonnes Arboleas & surrounding areas Call Lee on 636 092 632 eliteplanthire@hotmail.co.uk

Phil Delivers

Logs

gravel & all building materials

Albox & Surrounding areas

tel: 634 328 779

logs logs logs logs logs logs logs

willow logs for sale

grade a olive - Olive Mix - Eucalyptus wood chopped to size for log burners

FREE DELIVERY Albox & surrounding areas ALL AREAS COVEReD

unbeatable

prices

Tel: 658 588 430 All construction materials delivered

logs logs logs logs logs logs logs

50% off selected boxes or Christmas cards Home Sweet Home Tel: 950 479 487 20% off Tom Smith Crackers Home Sweet Home Tel: 950 479 487 20% off Selected Christmas Trees Home Sweet Home Tel: 950 479 487 Christmas Foods & Chocolates Home Sweet Home Tel: 950 479 487

wanted D i s a b l e d pensioner is looking for a partial return to normal existence and requires Two Specialist Services 1 - Specialist taxi service which is capable of loading person and wheelchair to take to bars and restaurants and return home 2 - Aids in home for pensioner that can not walk more than two feet without falling Please call Victor on Landline 0034 950 513 215 Mobile 0034 628 661 075 Or Vicmac00@ gmail.com

WANTED

JCB’s, Mini-Diggers (All Makes), Tractors, Trailers & all other types of plant machinery.

Any age, any condition.

Cash buyer All 4x4 vehicles buyer of all caravans, any condition, value from 200€ to 20,000€

Urgently Required

ALL Mitsubishi Shogun Monteo Pajero Landrover & all other makes

collect from anywhere

Tel: 645 094 339 or 950 064 763

www.soltimes.com legal cont...

If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic in our regular space on pg 16, please email info@daviessolicitors.com NUMBER PLATES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

personal

“Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the advertisments in this section offensive”

VERA PLAYA YOUNG PRETTY GIRLS

with barbie bodies 90-60-90 french, brunettes & columbians

24 HOURS • STRIPTEASE tEL: 687 891 515

property for rent & SALE

SPAIN UK SPAIN

For just 10€ per week!

Friendly Reliable Service Fully Legal Special deals from UK - Spain Office: 968 564 298 Mobile: 696 621 884 marmenorremovals@hotmail.com

WITH SOLTIMES

Your property will appear as shown opposite and be seen by almost

E

Don’t take a chance!

Don’t break the Law! Let us take the hassle away from you and re-register your vehicle on to Spanish plates WE PROMISE TO BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTATION For a full service contact:

634 612 828 pets section palomino kennels exclusive boarding kennels/cattery tel: 950 067 051 good home needed for big mixed breed dog. very good with children. excellent guard dog. 10 years old. please ring 666 717 742 for more details woodhouse boarding kennels & cattery

opticians

arboleas Small friendly kennels, 24hr vets service, pet transporting arranged, welcome to view

Optica Albox All your optical needs, eye tests, hearing tests, contact lenses Tel: 950 121 991

Tracy Mobile 650 211 952

Alan 662 249 159

www.replatematecostablanca.com

ministry approved

No need for kennels or cattery, Pet sitting in your own home, Arboleas & surrounding areas.

Call Vanessa on 637 061 482 Not just cats & dogs, All other types of pets considered

friendly mare painter & decorator painter / decorator

over 25 years experience

give your property or business a fresh look this christmas

Tel: 649 186 107 or

email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

painting & decorating

• 35 years experience • Guaranteed to beat any quote • Quality work guaranteed

Tel Alan: 950 450 174 or 600 268 176

now covering mainland spain

commercial & major retail painter’s expert quality workmanship

visit our website for more info tntpainters@live.co.uk www.tntpaintersltd.co.uk

9 years old 14.3hh/1.50m

500€

telephone 678 838 547

Apartment to rent

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT

From a parcel to a small house move

Professional,Friendly & Caring Fully insured, scheduled monthly door to door service

uk@fmtransport.co.uk www.fmtransport.co.uk +44 (0) 1582 499 836 +44 (0) 7977 754 389

SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

satellite/television

A1 Sky Television Systems

in Los Menchones near Zurgena

ground floor, 1 bed, lounge, Satelitte TV, diningroom, suit couple or single 175€+ bills per month Tel: 950 449 074 or 634 368 071

Removals

UK - SPAIN - UK

OR 902 750 190 Ext 330

24 hours english spoken

removals cont...

SELL YOUR PROPERTY FAST

3 bed villa for sale 55,000 phone “RE-PLATE” Spanish • blonde now for details Sol Times readers! slim • curvy MATE Call ChristineTODAY on 966 719 647

GB

33

Satellite TV installations, alignment of dishes etc.

Also Spanish “freeview” systems supplied & installed

2 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM, pENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN VERA PLAYA ALL MOD CONS, BALCONY & ROOF TERRACE OFFERING FANTASTIC VIEWS cALL 663 977 230 EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com Vera Playa Apartment

for sale

plot of land of 800m2 & villa 125m2 brick built up to & inc roof Wonderful location & exceptional views Arboleas. First yet 5 mins to town with all amenities.

Fully legal with escritora must be floor flat overlooking viewed the rambla. Four

Bargain price 65,000€

bedrooms, lift access nice views, To view or for more details central location, part furnished.

300€ pcm long term for SALE massive detatched preferred. Available immediately 609 cortijo with 50m2 workshop 20mins from mojacar 199 394

Tel Dave: 628 607 778 solar power system

www.ecocorp.eu at ecocorp we do not just sell you a system we deliver, intall & guarantee everything for up to 10 years

Swimming Pool Heating

titanuim swimming pool heat pump For pools approx 8m by 4m 2495€ INC Installation This unit uses only 1.7kw input power!

Solar Power Systems

off grid systems for homes with no electricity 3kw systems from 6495€ 5kw systems from 7495€ 7kw systems from 8995€

Tel: 671 716 597

609 199 394

This is a unique spanish country cortijo with 4 beds, 2 bath, Open plan living areas, kitchen & dining room as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool. Mountain views. possible B& B

plasterer British plasterer All work guaranteed Tel Paul 634 327 201

plumbing

Hi my name is Trudy gas fast I am of mixed breed & Gas boiler & medium sized. plumbing repairs.

D.O.B 18/10/2011 Tel: 618 062 080 I have a quiet calm nature 7 I or 637 829 787 get on well with other dogs.

I would make a wonderful, Knowles & loving family pet.

Abbott Come meet me at The Dog no.1 for plumbing House. & electric. CH, To meet Trudy call Paul on 626766073 solar hot water and españolas enlace: Veronica 608858318 water deposits. e-mail thedoghse@hotmail.com Telephone Hi my name is Toffee 950 137 197 or D.O.B 03/04/08 606 807 797 I am of mixed breed, chipped & vaccinated.

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34

COLOUR PAGE AL SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

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...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

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I have no idea why I was put on this earth, but of one thing I am certain; I was not put on this earth to be a shining example of domesticity.

I clean when I see dirt, rather than anticipating its existence, and over the years I have learned that most dirt is traceable to a source, like paw or boot marks; some dirt seems to spring into being in a sort of immaculate conception, like fluff, while yet another type seems to self-generate.

Tinsel self-generates – no matter how deep the post-Christmas clean is, no matter how unstoppably the omnipotent Lawrence (our purple vacuum cleaner) and I patrol the house, there will be tinsel, right through until June.

I write this as a warning – I have discovered yet another type of self-generating detritus – shavings!

We have had a door fitted between the lounge and the kitchen in a bid to increase the house’s heatability. It was made off-site and came complete with two heavily jacketed lads one windy and freezing cold evening.

It all slotted together with a minimal amount josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk of planeing, and

By Jos Biggs

viewpoint

without the need for sharp intakes of breath, swearing, hammering or head-shaking.

As a final act before departing into the darkness the lads swept up a pan-full of shavings, which they left in the middle of the kitchen as visible proof that their mothers had brought them up to clean up their own mess, to a degree.

I disposed of the proffered pan, and swept up a panfull of my own, leaving the kitchen pristine.

Next morning’s daylight revealed a liberal coating of shavings rolling around on the floor, so I swept them up, being sure to go under all the fittings.

By lunchtime the kitchen once more resembled a sawmill, so I muttered a bit, then swept again, carefully and assiduously.

The following morning as I entered the kitchen I noticed that the floor was liberally dotted with happy little shavings, smiling in the morning sun. I grumbled as I vigorously condemned them to the dustpan, but by lunchtime a plethora of the little blighters had appeared from nowhere, so I swept again with diminishing good humour.

Then I noticed that the rest of the house was also sporting a carpet of grated wood - I gritted my teeth, grasped the brush and with murder in my soul I went forth and swept.

This is when it dawned on me that shavings are the third type of dirt – the self-generating sort.

But I will get them all. I will sweep them into oblivion. I will succeed, or perish in the attempt!

Something for the Weekend?

Following on from last week when I reminisced about the movies and picture houses from my days as a very young boy in Reading; it brought to mind that huge presence in the lives of many kids from the 50’s – Saturday Morning Picture’s.

The movie house that served the south of town where I lived was the Savoy, sitting between a small pickle factory and a butchers, its art deco facade was typical of most cinema architecture.

Hundreds of kids from the sprawling Whitley council estate would converge on the Savoy every Saturday morning, clutching their sixpence ticket money and another tanner to spend on sweets and drinks.

Our harassed mums were glad to get shot of us for a few hours while they got on with their housework or shopping.

Some, from the far flung outposts of the estate, arrived on the trolley bus that stopped outside the Savoy, but most of

us travelled on foot, even though many lived a mile or more away.

And although the most common mode of transport for kids then was the trusty push bike, we never risked using them in case our machines were half inched by the undesirable elements from the less than salubrious areas of Whitley.

The noise inside the cinema was unbelievable, with kids hollering at each other across the aisles - petty disputes on the ownership of cigarette cards and other schoolboy paraphernalia, and sometimes more serious altercations usually involving left over arguments from the school playground. And with sweet wrappers, paper planes and some individual’s article of clothing flying across the auditorium, the sour faced commissionaire and stewards had an impossible job of trying to keep things in order before the programme started. It must have been like dealing with a prison riot.

Finally at the appointed time, the lights dimmed, the curtains opened and the words of our ABC Minors club song appeared on the screen. Then a bouncy ball would trace the words as we all bellowed out the refrain: ‘We Are The Boys And Girls Well Known As, Minors Of The ABC . . .’

Naturally we all

By Colin Bird : badbirdnow@gmail.com

finished well ahead of the music anxious to get on with the business of the day, aka Flash Gordon -who got around in a rocket powered by a sparkler Abbot and Costello; Superman; Old Mother Riley; Tom and Jerry; Laurel and Hardy, Marvel Man and many others.

There was one particular part of the programme that was serialised and carried over until the following week and always ended on a cliff hanger with our hero about to get the chop and no possible way out of it. But then miraculously escaping at the start of the next episode.

Dick Tracy would be seen hurtling over a cliff in his car one week, but the next Saturday, the car would come to a shuddering halt just before the precipice and Dick would leg it without a scratch. This blatant cheating by the film makers happened week after week, but we still loved it.

Hopalong Cassidy, The Lone Ranger and Tom Mix were some of our cowboy favourites and you could spot the bad guys because they were always ugly, unshaven, wore black and walked bow legged. Whereas the goodies had white hats, freshly laundered shirts, rode white horses with coiffeured manes and were always heading somebody off at the pass.

Opposite the Savoy was Lester’s the barbers.

Mr Lester was the proud owner of a sleek Jag – and no wonder. His salon was the only one on the estate, which meant that he had a lucrative monopoly in the male shearing department and there was always a shop full of adults and lads of various ages.

It was a good idea therefore to kill two birds with one stone on a Saturday, when there would be a lengthy queue of small boys waiting for haircuts and all with the same strict instruction from their mums – short back and sides!

These were the days of the Boston, D.A. and Tony Curtis hairstyles, but they were reserved for the older youths whose parents had given in to the dictates of fashion. If a youngster under a certain age entered Mr Lester’s establishment and requested a Crew Cut, he was required to show a letter from his mum or dad.

Mr Cooper, one of the three resident barbers, always had a cigarette dangling from his lips as he terrorised his way through a multitude of youthful locks. He might as well have been using a strimmer for all the finesse he possessed. And after each session he would ask me the same question much to the amusement of his colleagues.

‘Something for the weekend sir?’

It was a year or two more before I understood what that meant!

A l que r ia E l S up r emo With Antonio Poyato and that other stalwart of democracy Blythe Gruntmore under lock and key, Rodriquez and his obnoxious sidekicks took total control of Alqueria. Manuela had slipped through the net but she was only a girl, hardly a threat to the new totalitarian regime.

The people of Alqueria having taken apathy to new and lofty heights didn’t notice the change in government. It soon became apparent however that something was ‘up’. Rodriquez, resplendent in new pseudo-military regalia appeared on a hastily built rostrum in the village plaza. As with all dictators and monarchs Rodriquez had immediately dressed himself in the most ridiculous and over-medalled uniform. He then surrounded himself with meaningless protocol putting the widest gap possible between himself and the ‘ordinary’ people of Alqueria.

Rodriquez’s ‘pronunciamento’ in the square left the villagers in no doubt about the coup d’état. Dozens of emergency controls were put in place. In the best traditions of Spain and the Spanish people these were totally ignored. The Remitroot crop however, and therefore the economy of Alqueria would be directly under Rodriquez’s control. To the more astute of the population this was worrying. During the lengthy speech his pomposity knew no bounds as he rambled on. In his attempt to portray himself as a wise and benevolent leader he only appeared as he really is. A megalomaniac with no more sense than a cuckoo. The old adage held true as it holds true with all monarchs and dictators, ‘A monkey dressed in silk is still a monkey’.

On the southern slopes of the Sierra Alhamilla overlooking Alqueria is old man Matas’s cave. Still believing the Civil War to be on he does what he can for the Second Republic. Manuela had found her way there by navigating the olive groves in total darkness. This was second nature to her, it was during the daylight hours that they presented a problem. Manuela’s arrival, breathless and desperate further strengthened the old man’s belief in his cause. To have company and female company in particular threw Matas into confusion. He wasn’t sure what was common courtesy and what was pent up but long forgotten desire.

Manuela let Matas believe the Civil War was still raging and set about exploiting his arsenal of old but numerous weapons in the cause of Alquerian freedom. Although in his nineties Matas became besotted with the raven haired Manuela.

He presented Manuela with a small bunch of wild flowers “They’re a bit wilted but it’s the thought that counts” Matas said with a lascivious grin.

“It’s the thought that worries me” mused Manuela as she oiled the bolt of an ancient Mauser.

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

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36

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

pause for thought

So Christmas is almost upon us; the time when we celebrate the birth 2000 years ago of that very special child, who we Christians believe was God Himself, born to give his life as payment for our wrongdoings. Yet in spite of that anticipated destiny, there always seems considerable romance surrounding our portrayals of that occasion. The lovely, neat crib; the attentive and well groomed animals; the three immaculately dressed kings with their valuable gifts; the slightly less immaculate shepherds; the beautifully dressed and smiling parents, and the amazing star illuminating this 5-star stable residence.

But the reality of that night, as most of us are aware, was anything but romantic. No one would have had time to clean or prepare the stable, which was the only, and very makeshift shelter, available. The animals, with whom the family shared this shelter would have been much like those in Andalucean farms, doubtless fairly grubby and with their own special perfume. The crib was a hastily prepared feeding trough and the parents, exhausted after their long journey were almost certainly penniless, hungry and extremely frightened, as they learnt that the local ruler wanted their child dead.

The reality is of course a salutary reminder to us, particularly at this time of year, of God’s love and care for all, and especially for the poor. And amazing though it may seem, this message is becoming especially relevant right now, here in Spain, where many, it seems are today going hungry. So it is that a number of Churches and other organisations in this region are giving packets or tins of non-perishable food, such as rice, pasta, oil, flour, milk, tuna, or tins of tomatoes to Turre Evangelical Church in support of their food bank, which is used to provide food for the many destitute (mainly Spanish) of this area. So this Christmas, as so many of us celebrate, could I suggest that we remember the needy on our doorstep and give some practical help via Turre (www.turrechurch.com), the Anglican Church or perhaps by dropping off some food at Wavelengths in Albox.

Further information about the Anglican Church and details of forthcoming events may be seen on the web site www. mojacarchurch.org Duncan Burr is Licensed Lay Reader for the Anglican Chaplaincy of Costa Almeria and Costa Cálida and may be contacted at djburr@avired.com

As a young boy in the early 1970s I watched M*A*S*H which was set in the Korean War that raged from1950 until 1953. Jolly funny it was too and only years later did I realise that my childhood laughs were based on the deaths of three million people.

National Service was in force in the UK and 100,000 young British men were involved in what is seen as the ‘forgotten war.’

Hugely relevant today as Kenyan survivors have taken the British Government to court over torture claims, the Mau Mau Rebellion in 1953 left over 20,000 dead. This was Britains’ darkest hour of its colonial rule. Over a million Kenyans were either sent to huge reserves or concentration camps. Torture including rape and castration were commonplace and also capital punishment was meted out on a routine basis. The Mau Mau themselves were also brutal against settlers and their own people. Disgustingly even though the survivors won their court case very recently, the British Foreign Office has refused to apologise.

In 1954 Algeria started its fight for independence from France, it lasted 8 years and cost 400,000 lives. President De Gaulle knew the fight was winnable but was political suicide for France fresh after its defeat in Vietnam, another of its former colonies. He almost paid for the decision to negotiate a withdrawal with his life as the French military failed in a coup attempt and tried to assassinate him.

In1958 Chairman Mao started ‘The great leap forward’ which he hoped would catapult the economy in front of the United States. It actually was a great leap backwards as the Chinese economy shrank, incidentally killing between 20 and 30 million from starvation or state brutality.

In 1961 The Kurds started a rebellion against Iraq which rumbled on and off for 42 years killing 200,000 people in the process.

Nick Ut/AP - The running girl - Vietnam June 1972

Oh what a lovely war part II Their fight involved them siding with Iran in the Iran-Iraq war in1980 in which half a million people died with no side gaining victory. Saddam Hussein was instrumental in ordering chemical weapons to be used against the Kurds and Iranians.

The Kurds also played a prominent role in Desert Storm in 1990/1 helping Allied forces.

My middle school in Guildford had a fantastic library and Time Life and other periodicals were available for us kids to read. In 1964 the Vietnam War had started and did not finish until The United States defeat in 1973. My dad had the Telegraph delivered every day but being a short-arse as a child meant the paper was simply too enormous for me to read.

So Time Life was an easier choice. I vividly recall seeing the now infamous photo of the ‘running girl’ in 1972 and being shocked as I had no idea there was this horrific war being waged on the other side of the world.

Phan Thi Kim Phuc was sheltering in the temple at Trang Bang village when a plane dropped napalm on the village as it mistook the villagers as enemy soldiers. Kim’s clothes were burnt off her body and she and other survivors ran for their lives. Associated Press photographer Nick Ut took this and other harrowing shots that certainly help turn world opinion against the war. Not however before three million people died, many of them innocent civilians from the indiscriminate use of deadly chemical weapons. The photo still brings tears to my eyes every time I see it, oh the futility of war!

Stephen Amore has lived in Almeria since July 2006 and owns Findmeahome estate agency. Writing on a variety of topics close to his heart such as environmental issues, animal welfare, food and drink, music and travel, as well as commenting on the absurdities of living in Spain! email: stephen@findmeahome.es - www.facebook.com/stephen.amore

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TEST DRIVE: Volvo XC90

Since its launch in 2002 it has won a loyal following.

Even American actress Jennifer Garner, the wife of Ben Affleck, has an XC90.

The top-of-the-range test model has smatterings of chrome on the wing mirrors and grille as well as black alloy wheels making it look like a SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) vehicle as used in US TV series 24. It definitely looks the part.

On first acquaintance

37

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

I sit in the driver’s seat perplexed as to how to remove the parking brake.

I eventually realise that there is a footbrake on the left of the footwell as you can see in the video at testdrives.biz. Logic suggests depressing it with my foot. This I do, only to press it further down. After much head scratching I resort to reading the manual only to find that the footbrake is released by pulling a handle on the

right of the dashboard.

Turn the ignition and the rattle of the 2.4-litre diesel is audible from inside. This is quickly lost when on the move and under excessive exertion the resulting grunt adds to the overall driving experience of this all-roader.

The six-speed geartronic auto can also be used as a five-speed manual.

On reversing, a pop up screen appears on the dash displaying the helpful

camera view. The XC90 is a large brute, capable of transporting seven adults.

Unsurprisingly it can feel a little cumbersome, especially when pulling out at roundabouts when there is a delayed response. But this is easily remedied by kicking the accelerator to the floor.

The high up position of this vehicle makes it an entertaining vehicle for safely overtaking on Broads; drivers can perform

manoeuvres they would rarely consider even in faster vehicles, because of its height. Inside is comfortable and luxurious, even the air conditioning can be confined to rear occupants or the whole vehicle. The soft suspension soaks up even the worst potholes.

Parkers, the car experts, writes: “The Volvo XC90 was the firm’s first real offroader. It may not be as agile to drive as alternatives like the BMW X5, but the XC90 is strong in other areas - most notable its refined ride which makes it ideal for long motorway journeys. It was revised in 2007 with minor exterior tweaks, a more luxurious interior and new engines.

All Volvo XC90s come with seven seats, arranged in a 2-3-2 format that means most owners tend to run it as a five-seater with a simply huge boot. When you do need those extra seats, or fancy using it as a six-seater where everyone gets a bit more elbow

room, it’s a doddle to flip up the rear seats from their flat stowed position in the boot floor.”

A fabulous vehicle that will appeal to a whole plethora of purchasers from tall businessmen with large families (Peter Jones take note) through to property developers and leisure entrepreneurs.

specification Volvo XC90 2.4 D5 (200bhp) SE Lux 5d Geartronic New price range: £35,695 - £44,845 Economy: 34mpg Engine: 2.4-litre 0-60mph: 10secs Top speed: 127mph Power: 197bhp Watch the video at: www. testdrives.biz

Advanced motorist Tim Saunders is the former Business and Motoring Editor of the Bournemouth Daily Echo.

His regular test reports appear in numerous newspapers, magazines and websites throughout the UK, Ireland & Gibraltar - and now here in Spain! For more information contact Tim on: timasaunders@tiscali.co.uk

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38

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

angels

To all the people who made the effort to come and see me at “La Vida” last Thursday just to find that I wasn’t there, I would like to apologise. It appears that I had been double booked with Zelda the tarot card reader, who could have possibly predicted that? You also missed my Christmas gift of half price on all work to your machines. Such is the way of things.

Will a computer replace the psychic, card / tea-leaf reader and the vast array of not-as-yet acknowledged mind science practitioners? Did you realise that for most of the specialist skills that these lovely people were demonstrating, there is also a computer program that might be just as accurate? I did say “might”! Take Tarot reading as a simple example. There are as many interpretations as there are card combinations. The major drawback of the logical binary answers given by the computer is that the death card next to the tower will always mean “sudden violent and irrevocable change”. A gifted reader will always be able to offer a personal interpretation that is far more accurate. Now consider the “Crystal Reader” who was either born with, or has developed, the ability to access the “other realm” (left hemisphere of brain, akasha library or astral light dependant on your belief system). These people truly are the “seer’s” of Arthurian legend, equally, the real ones are few and widely distributed.

Where the computer gets a “leg up” is with pseudo sciences such as numerology, astrology and biorhythms, where well defined rules are enforced. For example, with numerology your birth name; common name and date of birth are converted into numbers. These are then added and reduced to single digits with a few rare exceptions. These numbers supposedly have a correlation with the skills given at birth, your personality as reflected within your name and common name, and the interaction between the 2. To some, including myself, the results are quite astounding! Whereas Astrology works, or not depending upon your belief system, is due to the interdependency of all things from galaxies to grains of sand. Many people believe that the calculations of planetary and star orbits and the interrelationship to one another and to you, good reader, are well defined. Finally, Biorhythms are exceptionally personal cycles that indicate reactions to events depending upon your physical, emotional and mental stage within the individual cycles. The laws of Karma state that every action creates a reaction and therefore change your reality (future)! So knowing that your on a short fuse help you not kill your ill-mannered boss! A useful skill :-) These things, with their finite results are the “bread and butter” of the digital world and are therefore perfect for your computerised buddy. Where can you get these Über wonderful programs for free (oops! Did I say “for free” again :-) Only 13 days to get your computer / laptop cleaned and tuned before Christmas! So call me on 689 892 745 or email me canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk. Have a lovely and productive week and see you next week.

References: Numerology Freeware: www.2near.com/edge/numerology/ Biorhythm Freeware: www.whitestranger.com/downloads.htm Astrology Freeware www.astrolog.org/astrolog.htm Further reading: https://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Numerology

For further information or advice on computing, contact Trevor on canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk

sport

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

sport shorts

ongratulations to the world’s greatest C footballer Lionel Messi.

On Sunday at 9.27pm in Sevilla, the superstar broke the record set in 1972

by German striker Gerd Muller for most goals scored in a calendar year.

At that precise time the Argentinian netted his and Barcelona’s second goal of the night in a 2-1 win over Real Betis to take his tally in 2012 to an incredible 86 in only 66 games.

Well played little man, you’re a pure genius.

•O n Sunday (live on TV at 8.30pm) you can find out who will be crowned as the BBCs ‘Sports Personality of the Year.’ I’m going for Bradley Wiggins, but Mo Farah, Jessica Ennis and Andy Murray must be in with a shout. This is a great programme to watch – if you like sport!

• After last week’s action in Europe, the FA Cup and League Cup, it’s back to the bread and butter of domestic football this weekend and the top Premiership fixtures are Chelsea (3rd) v Southampton (a rehearsal for next month’s 3rd round FA Cup-tie), Manchester United (top) v Sunderland, Newcastle v Manchester City (2nd), Reading v Arsenal (remember 7-5 LC clash?) and Spurs v Swansea •C hampionship leaders Cardiff play Peterborough (bottom), Crystal Palace (2nd) visit Birmingham, Middlesbrough (3rd) meet Wolves.

In FL1, it’s Tranmere (top) v Sheffield United while in FL2, pace-setters Gillingham play Fleetwood. And in the SPL leaders Celtic entertain St Mirren.

• Arsenal, Celtic and Manchester United are still in the Champions League but Chelsea and Manchester City are out.

• Also through to the knockout stage are AC Milan, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Galatasary, Juventus, Malaga, PSG, Porto, Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donestk, Schalke and Valencia.

•D espite defeating Nordsjaelland 6-1, Chelsea became the first holders of the trophy to exit at the group stage after Juventus beat Shahktar Doneskt to finish second above the Blues.

And those seven goals at Stamford Bridge last mid-week came in just 27 minutes, which I believe is a record for ‘rapid scoring’ in the competition which began in 1955.

•C eltic who defeated Spartak Moscow 2-1 courtesy of Kris Commons’ penalty went through thanks to Benfica’s draw in Barcelona.

•M anchester City finished bottom of group D and therefore missed out on the consolation of a Europa League place, leaving Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle and Spurs as England’s representatives in this competition.

Last night Bradford City met Arsenal and Norwich played Aston Villa in the quarter-finals of the LC. Tonight Swansea take on Middlesbrough while Chelsea, who are currently in the FIFA World Club Cup in Japan, play their tie at Leeds on 19 December.

•W est Ham have been named as the ‘preferred bidders’ to take over the Olympic Stadium.

•D avid Beckham has been asked by two American clubs if he wants to become an ‘owner.’

• Lionel Messi is still on course to beat Gerd Muller’s record of 85 in a calendar year. Barcelona met Real Betis last weekend, played Cordoba in a quickly-arranged 1st leg Copa del Rey Cup-tie last night, and take on Atletico Madrid on the 16th. After

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this they play Cordoba in the second leg and take on Vallodolid three days before Christmas.

• Last Saturday, Father Christmas (dressed as a referee) arrived early at the Emirates and awarded Arsenal two penalties (v WBA) and Sunderland slipped into the drop-zone by losing 3-1 to Chelsea.

Twenty-four hours later, United beat City 3-2 in the 165th Manchester derby, Robin van Persie scoring a dramatic 92nd minute winner. United lead the PL by six points; Everton scored twice late on to beat Spurs 2-1 and improving Liverpool won 3-2 at West Ham. •C helsea’s John Mikel Obi has been fined £60,000 and banned for three matches after threatening referee Mark Clattenburg after the Manchester United match in October.

• Alastair Cook scored a recordbreaking 23rd century and became the youngest-ever batsman to reach 7,000 Test runs as England beat India by seven wickets to go 2-1 up in the four-match series. The last Test is in Nagpur.

• The French HRA has banned Frankie Dettori has been banned for six months for drug abuse.

•G olfer Rory McIlroy has been voted the 2012 PGA ‘Player of the Year’.

• Mark Selby won the 2012 UK snooker championship in York.

•O xford beat Cambridge 26-19 in the annual varsity rugby match.

• And Azerbaijan will host the 2015 European Olympic Games.

Boxers GS - Roda 4th December Badgers Golf Society...........

Captain Derek Leonard’s enticing title of the Roda ‘Grip it and rip it’ challenge lured a good company of Boxers members to take on the always challenging Murcia course.

Cloud cover for much of the day made the brisk winds sharper and, with recent fine hollow-tyning and subsequent dressing of many of the greens, this helped to make for a low-scoring day.

Results. !st division: Overall winner Tony Harwin (36) - Martin Fisk (34) Steve Gilmore 33 2nd Division: Adrian Ball (36) - Henry Becket (35) - Roy Lewis (32)

3rd Division: John Kinch (27) - Martin (Mark) Allen (26) NTP: Dave France - Tony Harwin. NTP in 2: Martin Fisk 2’s: Derek Leonard - Martin Fisk.

Boxers next meeting will be at Alboran 17th December for a ‘Turkey Trot’. Why not come and join the other turkeys to compete for a fine line-up of festive prizes.

Guests and new members are always welcome and Alboran is playing really well in its winter coat.

For details of this event or membership please contact Brian Mayhew on 649 282198

Hot and Cold On Wednesday 5th Dec Badgers visited Macenas for their weekly competition.

With a bit of a nip in the air expectations of good golf were not high. With the temperature warming, so did the golf.

Top score of the day went to Roger Whitehead with a great 42 pts (losing 2.4 off his handicap in the process), in 2nd with 38pts was Lynn Sefton and Paul Adams rounding off the top 3 with 37pts.

Nearest the pins went to Dave Wright, Barbara Goff and two to Richard Jones Saturday 8th Dec Badgers

were at Macenas. Top player of the day was Dave Wright, taking the honours on countback with 34pts from Rod Goff.

Badgers are at Valle de Este on Wednesday 12th, and then at Macenas on Saturday 15th and Wednesday 19th Badgers Golf are holding a Boxing Day competition at Macenas Golf, with visitors welcome to join. To enter, please contact Richard at Badgers on 950478525.

Guests are welcome to join the society on both Wed and Sat comps and can book in either at Badgers Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or by phone on 950478525

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

sport TAEKWONDO MOJACAR.............................................

9TH ANNIVERSARY INTER-CLUB COMPETITION

On Saturday 8th December, Taekwondo Mojacar celebrated its 9th anniversary by organizing an inter-club competition.

Taekwondo practitioners of all ages competed against one another in various disciplines: combat sparring, patterns, jumping kicks and board-breaking.

The club instructor Mr Serge Dewrée, together with the president of the Global Taekwondo Federation in Spain, Mr Michael Williams and the assistant instructor Mr Ossian Guerrero-Green judged this very successful event.

As always, the Taekwondo Mojacar students demonstrated excellent skills in all categories and a showed very high sense of companionship and respect of which they can be proud.

For more info on class times and events, visit our website www.tkdspain.webs.com or follow our facebook page “Taekwondo Mojacar”

19th Hole Golf Society. Cucador.....................

Tuesday 4th December and the 19th Hole Golf Society commenced battle with the beautiful Aguilon Golf Course at Pulpi. Arriving at 9.30 our brave terriers trekked toward the Club House arriving at the same time as the wind.

From being a quiet pleasant morning at 9.25am it turned into almost a re-run of our previous abandoned visit.

This time our determined group decided to fight the elements and all safely teed off in this Individual Stableford Competition.

The wind stayed steady for a couple of hours but when the majority of our players were attacking the back nine the it really started to blow.

Although the balls were not moving on the greens the wind played havoc with balls that were airborne. It was noted

that no one complained about Roger (The Dodger) Kaye•s balls having any consistent bias.

Whilst on the subject of Roger, he and his wife Sylvia along with Zeta Denyer had a pretty tough time around this demanding course finding as many bunkers between them as was possible, at times it reminded me of a re-run of Wilson Kepple and Betty’s Sand Dance.

Terry Caddick had another steady consistent round taking 3rd place with 27 points , just behind Keith Kingdom on count back. This is by far the best performance

by Keith since playing with The 19th Hole G/S, very well done Keith.

Our winner of the day by a mile was the ever consistent Mark Danson, Mark scored 34

points playing off a handicap of 3, and took both Nearest the Pin awards a really great performance beating even the wind into submission.

Results.

1st Mark Danson 34 points (03) 2nd Keith Kingdom 27 points (27) on Count Back 3rd Terry Caddick 27 points (15) Twos; Nearest The Pin: Hole No 4 Mark Danson, Hole No 17 Mark Danson The 19th hole G/S is now arranging weekly games at various courses in the area, our home course, which we play fortnightly, is Aguilon.

If you are interested in joining the 19th hole give the secretary a ring on 610340653.

Or email gs19thhole@hotmail. co.uk

ALBOX DARTS LEAGUE...............................................

Highlights Paul from La Cinta 1 - 112 checkout Jon Hilson from El Cordobes - 102 checkout Peter from Bar El Frax - 174 Results for Week 10 Division 1 Tue 04 Dec La Cinta 1 7 Tue 04 Dec Cafe-Bar Oasis 4 Tue 04 Dec Corner Bar 5 Tue 04 Dec Bar El Frax 4 Results for Week 10 Division 2 Tue 04 Dec The Travellers 4 Tue 04 Dec El Local 2 Tue 04 Dec El Molino 6

Sunday 9th December 012 and a big day for Cortijo Grande members.

The Almazara Trophy sponsored

by Antonio and family at the Almazara restaurant. We are so lucky to have the support of this lovely Spanish family,

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1 Bar Flora 4 El Cordobes 3 Carrillos Bar 4 Pablos

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CORTIJO GRANDE.......................................................

Wednesday 5th December 012 and our winner with 35 Frank McGovern from Peter Jackson 34 points and Mike Picken 34 points We had three ball sweep winners Julie Oliver Peter Jackson and John Wardley

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who allow us to use their facilities as our club house.

We are so gratefull .

The winner of the trophy for 2012 was Ursula Lade with 38 points in second with 37 points David Hardy and in third with 35 points Greg Ward. Our first division winner with 34 points Juan Ramon Rubio second with 32 Mike Picken and third with 31 John Wardley. Second division winner with 31 Juan Pedro Fernandez second with 30 points Bonifacio Gonzalez and third with 29 Pedro

Rodriguez. Our third division winner with 35 points Robina Dore second with 33 Pat Hill and third with 32 Barbara Wardley. Ball sweep winners Brian Paxton Colin Stacey.

My thanks to all our members for the support and good turnout . we welcome old members and guests at Cortijo Gtande where you get the taste of Spain as well as golf. Enjoy your golf at Cortijo Grande MP

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40 SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

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Urcal Golf Society 8th December at Aguilon Despite the low numbers on the day due to holidays and other engagements a good day’s golf was had by all.

The weather was fantastic barmy 25dgs and the course was in very good condition especially the greens which were very fast.

The comp for the day was a pairs match that saw Maggie Nichol and Barry Kilby edging

out Tony Cook and Tony Hinds on countback with scores of 53.the winner of longest drive went to Derek Phillips and nearest the pin was Tony Cook.our next game on 22nd December is the Urcal Challenge Trophy.

Anybody interested in joining our friendly society should contact tony hinds email torab55@yahoo.com

Valle Del Este Golf Society........

Tuesday 4th Dec Members Played A Texas Scramble And The Winners Were Harry Wilson (Capt) Byran Brown And Alan Hewitt ( Next Time Sign The Card)

Friday 7th And Our Monthly Medal Comp The Overall Winner Was A Regular Visitor Keith Moorhouse Gross 86 (Hcp16) Nett 70 2nd Place Robin Hawkins Gross 93 (Hcp20) Nett 73, 3rd Place

Sue Hull Gross 108 (Hcp33) Nett 75.

Nearest The Pins Were Bob Mearing & John Haydon. In Matchplay Quote For The Week; I Look Into Their Eyes, Shake Their Hand,Pat Their Back, And Wish Them Luck, But I Am Thinking, Iam Going To Bury You; Enjoy Your Golf At Valle Del Este.

Shore Fishing.

‘London Bill’ fished Garrucha beach by the lady statue and caught dorada and striped bream but none over a pound.

Bill says one day when there were a lot of dolphins at the mouth of the harbour and he was pulling out small fish two and three at a time and thinks the dolphins may have pushed shoals of small fish closer to shore and into the mouth of the port.

Boat Fishing.

‘Chef Jeremy’ and I fished with ‘Orca Steve’ and it was a hard day’s angling. We trolled (Got two hits that didn’t amount to anything) and bottom fished, drifting, over ten or so different areas.

We couldn’t stop catching weavers even when over hard ground (They like sand) and had at least twenty over a pound. Lots more were caught plus the tiniest red snappers I’ve ever seen and could only differentiate them from pandoras by the former having teeth. We also had a few pandoras and one only comber, the first I’ve seen since the storms and river

mud covered our inshore fishing grounds.

‘Captain Cuba’ was also out on the day and was joined by a few mates including ‘Mike the Watch’. They had a similar day but managed a lone triggerfish also.

Although we haven’t had any dorados (Maui Maui or dolphin fish) around Garrucha and Mojacar, friends have been catching some off Villaricos and maybe this is because this is North of the area where the rivers brought us havoc.

Some Spanish lads have been catching dentex bream too around Villaricos and so by the time you read this report, weather permitting, Jeremy, Mike and I may have made the trip on Steve’s boat, trolling no doubt, to Villaricos to see if we can get a few dorados and dentex for ourselves.

See photo of lads from the Albox Fishing Club with a catch of triggerfish from last week.

Coarse Fishing.

Two Murcia matches both held on the River Segura resulted in top weights of 39lbs and

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42lbs and one included a carp of 9.3/4lbs.

The Albox fishing club meets every two weeks or so at Bar Wassy. For details of the next meeting tel Sid 634 313 650.

New license information: I have some good news about Andalucian coarse fishing licenses and we have a new loophole. Not easy to do by any means, the main problem is a trip (In person) to Malaga. Although most of the paperwork can be done on the internet an appointment must be attended in Malaga.

It is not clear at this time if the license issued will cover fishing in other regions. No NIE number is necessary if proof of where one lives in the UK is produced and an English rod license will be required plus passport. The cost as far as I can work out is €91.00. It doesn’t say how long the license is for though and something else we will have to find out.

I’m told there is a new rule in Andalucia that tourists without an NIE number can fish Andalucian shores (And sea fishing from a boat)

without licenses but until I actually see the piece of paper I suggest you presume otherwise and use our other beach and boat fishing NIE loophole.

There is a loophole for those wanting beach and boat fishing licenses for Andalucia who don’t have NIE documents, only a passport number is required, see me for more details.

I’m pleased to report the Beachcomber’s three web cams are working again and the other good news is they work on both 32 and 64 bit systems and on any browser so checkout Mojacar’s weather and Mediterranean Sea conditions here. www. beachcombermojacar.com/ beachcomber-webcam/ For further information on any of the above or to find out about beach, boat or coarse fishing licenses, see me at the Beachcomber Bar Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or tel 950 473 099.

Tight lines, John.

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