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SolTimes issue 266
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21 - 27 FEBRUARY
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Camposol Celebrate New Mayor
Ex-pats in the Camposol Urbanisation have cause to celebrate after the election of a new pedania Mayor. The previous pedania Mayor resigned mid-way through her 4 year term, and a new Mayor was elected for the Saladillo pedanía, which includes Camposol. The new Mayor, José Andrés Navarro Yepes, who was born and has lived in Mazarrón all his life, is a long-term volunteer with the Camposol Residents Association and speaks fluent English. He has already pledged to work to resolve some of the issues facing Camposol. One of these issues, he said, was the lack of communication between residents, the great majority of whom did not speak Spanish, and the Town Hall. He felt that as a lifelong resident of Mazarrón and a member of the Camposol Residents Association he was ideally placed to iron out problems between the Town Hall and the residents. He emphasised the importance of the Camposol Urbanisation to the local economy of Mazarrón, both through its resident population and the holiday visitors that these residents brought to the area, without which local businesses would at best be struggling. He promised to work to seek a resolution to the infrastructural problems due to the defaulting of the original developer, Masa, who had left much of the infrastructure incomplete. He commented on the fact that problems with the necessary paperwork which had allegedly been undertaken by the previous administration had proved impossible to resolve, partly because of the lack of understanding between the council and the residents, leading to a situation of conflict and mutual misunderstanding. He believes that as a fluent English speaker who is well aware of the problems faced by both sides he will be an effective intermediary. Both the Committee of the Camposol Residents Association and the Mayor of Mazarrón, Ginés Campillo, have announced that they are pleased with the appointment of José, and they look forward with optimism to a period of forward progress in the muddled and frustrating affairs of the Urbanisation.
Sport
sponsored walk to raise money for horse-riding therapy for disabled The Asociacion Murciana de Terapias Ecuestres, which provides horse-riding therapy for disabled or handicapped people, is holding a Sponsored Walk on March 2nd. The 10k walk will start from the Mirador de Gebas in Sierra Espuña at 11 am and participants are asked to pay a 5€ fee, though it is hoped that the amount raised will be far in excess of this amount! It is being organised by Lisi from Meta Riding Stables, and for more details ring her on 600 871 628, or contact Meta Stables on 636 172 198 or go to meta@meta.nom.es
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Los Buenos
Firemen from the Consorcio de Extinción de Incendios y Salvamento de la Región de Murcia were called to an abandoned farmhouse in the Los Buenos area, where a man, believed to be a Moroccan, had fallen down an 8 metre deep well. The Health Service, Policía Local and Guardia Civil also attended, and the man was brought to the surface after about one hour. He was taken to the Los Arcos del Mar Hospital in San Javier, but is not thought to be seriously injured.
San Pedro del Pinatar’s Carnival Brings In the Crowds - despite cold weather!
The cold and windy weather did not deter the crowds at San Pedro del Pinatar’s Carnival Parade – there where at least a dozen bands from all around the area and floats with scantily clad and doubtless very chilly participants! The ex-pat fraternity was represented by the ‘Jolly Chefs’, a group from the ADAPT Association, formed to encourage British-Spanish integration. They certainly succeeded in making the crowd laugh with their rumbustious pantomime style act, during which no cakes got made at all! ADAPT meets on a regular basis, their next meeting is at the Pensionista Hogar on 2nd March. The aim of the group is to encourage ex-pats to join in with activities with likeminded people, and to form new intercultural friendships. For more details contact E Winskill on 966 189 402, or go the ADAPT website.
Cehegin Gets Facelift! Cehegín has been receiving a facelift - the viewpoint at El Cabazo is being given a thorough make-over. Over the last few years the area has been a dumping ground for all manner of rubbish and refuse. However, at a cost of 14,000 Euros the rubbish has been cleared, the ground has been prepared and treated, and plants, benches, lights, walls and fences have been installed, and a walkway put
in with access stairs. The Ayuntamiento has achieved this with a relatively small outlay, through using a local contractor backed up by a Municipal workforce. This has proved economically sound and has given much needed employment to local people; it offers a way forward which could be copied by other cash-strapped Ayuntamientos who would like to carry out improvement works in these difficult times.
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APPEAL to repossession victims
photo: www.elconfidencial.com/
“Don’t commit suicide, join us and fight”:
A PRESSURE group campaigning to change property ownership laws and fighting to save residents from repossession has called for those facing the loss of their homes to stop committing suicide. Stop Desahucios (‘Stop Evictions’) says: “There are many, many things you can do instead – protesting, getting out on the street to denounce repossessions, clamouring for your rights and shouting. Suicide is not something you should resort to in order to solve this social problem.” ThinkSpain reports a spokesman for the group’s Alicante branch, Julián Jiménez, stated politics and
economic powers ‘are pushing lots of people to killing themselves’. “Taking your own life is the last thing you should do,” he stresses. Yesterday, the fifth person in under a week killed himself when he was facing eviction – a 55-year-old man from Alicante city, who was found hanging on the day he was due to be thrown out of his home. In his case, the eviction was due to non-payment of rent, his having run up a debt of 24,000 euros. Less than 24 hours previously, a retired couple aged 67 and 68 in Calvià (Mallorca) died after taking massive overdoses on the eve of the repossession of their home when they found they could not pay their mortgage. And on the same day, a 56-year-old man left behind two daughters when he threw himself out of his apartment window in Basauri (Vizcaya province, in the Basque Country) just as his lenders were about to foreclose. At the weekend, a 36-year-old father in Córdoba committed suicide after finding out that his mortgage lenders were going to repossess his home. Three others, all in their 50s, including a man from Granada who hung himself and a woman from Barakaldo (Vizcaya) who leapt out of a third-floor window have taken their own lives since October as a result of finding out they were to lose their homes through mortgage non-payment. Speaking of the most recent victim, the first in the province of Alicante and the eighth in four months,
Mother and teenage daughter found dead in Murcia home
A 30-year-old woman and her daughter, aged 15 have been found dead in their home near Murcia. According to the report by ThinkSpain, it is thought a fuel-leak may have been the cause, since the deceased woman’s husband and father of the teenager reported a strong smell of gas when he found the bodies in the family home in Sangonera la Seca, just outside the city. Emergency services were called out just before 18.00hrs on Sunday, at which point the father and husband thought his wife and daughter were merely unconscious and had managed to move them outside. The house, on C/ Pintor Pablo Picasso, was said to be well-ventilated and firefighters could not find any problems with the gas heater, despite the strong smell. A post-mortem will be carried out to confirm the cause of death
Mother Of Three Sets Herself Alight In Front Of Mortgage Lenders’ Branch
A woman set herself on fire in front of a branch of the CaixaAlmassora bank at noon yesterday after dousing herself with flammable liquid. It is thought she may have fallen behind with her mortgage and been unable to negotiate with the lender, leading her to desperate measures. The victim, a 47-year-old woman from Almassora (Castellón) was heard screaming, “you’ve taken everything from me, I’ve lost everything because of you!” before pouring petrol over herself and setting herself on fire. Those who know her say she is separated from her spouse and has three dependent children, and that the bank was about to foreclose on her mortgage. She is said to be a lottery-ticket seller, possibly for the ONCE, the Spanish national lottery in aid of the blind. Emergency services took her to Valencia’s La Fe hospital, where she is in a critical condition after suffering at least 48 per cent burns, mainly to her head, legs and face.
Jiménez said: “It’s a pity we didn’t know about his situation, since we have managed to stop a few evictions for non-payment of rent in the past.” Several left-wing political parties in the city of Alicante have put pressure on the mayoress, Sonia Castedo, to set up helpdesks and arbitration services for struggling mortgage-holders trying to fight off their banks – something which was approved in a council meeting in November and has not yet been set up. Esquerra Unida (‘united left’) said it was ‘a terrible shame’ that the epidemic of home repossession had ‘claimed another life’, and called for the central government to establish a moratorium on any mortgage- or rent-related evictions until the planned new legislation was in force, incorporating the People’s Legislative Initiative (PLI) launched by over 1.4 million members of the public. And spokesman for the Compromís party in Alicante, Tomàs Mestre, called the latest suicide ‘a new victim of bank fraud’, and ‘another example of how the ordinary citizen is having to bear the full weight of the country’s economic troubles’. Mestre says his party ‘is not going to tolerate a single step in reverse’ in its fight against repossessions and evictions, and that its priority is to ‘rescue the people, not the banks’, alluding to massive EU bail-out funds applied for by Spain to keep ailing financial entities alive – funds that will, ultimately, have to be paid back out of the taxpayer’s pocket.
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Pensioners are more likely to get fined for speeding than younger drivers, says a surprise report by the Royal Automobile Club of Spain (RACE) and Liberty Insurance. More drivers aged 65 and over get killed on the roads because of driving too fast, and people of this agegroup much prefer their cars to public transport. But they tend to leave their vehicles at home when the weather is bad or when they know there will be a lot of traffic on the roads, and avoid driving at night. In general they were said to become more cautious as drivers with age but also more set in their ways, and inclined to get lost more easily en route. The 65-75 age-group sees 500 deaths a year on the road as a result of speeding, one of the highest in the country and a long way ahead of the 75-85 agegroup, which accounts for 108 fatalities. Over-65s account for 17 per cent of the population of Spain, 12 per cent of its drivers, and yet 23 per cent of its motor accident deaths. This said, of the total figure for road traffic fatalities among the 65and-over age-group, only 14 per cent were drivers – another 25 per cent were
Sport
Restaurant worker in custody for allegedly poisoning 14 colleagues
survey indicates Drivers over 65 are ‘speed-merchants’
passengers, and 55 per cent were pedestrians run over. According to the research, over two-thirds of drivers over 65 take regular medication and a third of these had no idea whether their drugs had any effect on their driving, and when asked how authorities can help them in their driving once they hit pensionable age, they say they want access to refresher courses to get them familiar with updated road traffic rules and new technology – one in three said they knew little or nothing about how ABS braking, ESP or satellite navigators worked. They also want to see much clearer road
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markings and signs, more widespread streetlighting – in Spain, several motorways connecting major cities have no lighting whatsoever – and awareness campaigns so that other drivers respect middle-aged and elderly motorists more. Pedestrians want to see more time allowed for crossing roads – as in, for the ‘little green man’ to stay lit for longer – as well as more and better zebra crossings, and a clampdown on people riding bikes on the pavement. The over-80s in particular said they would much prefer to carry on driving than to have to use public transport.
Meteor injures hundreds in Russia... A meteor crashing to earth in Russia’s Ural mountains injures at least 500 people, as the shockwave blows out windows, Russian officials say.
Pistorius weeps at murder charge... South African athlete Oscar Pistorius shot his girlfriend through a bathroom door, prosecutors tell a court, as the victim’s family hold a funeral.
‘Gigantic’ diamond heist in Brussels Armed robbers escape with a massive haul of diamonds after a daring raid at Brussels Airport, police say
A kitchen assistant and waiter has been arrested on suspicion of trying to poison his 14 work colleagues and possibly his late boss. The 55-year-old has worked at a restaurant in Gijón (Asturias) since early 2005, and came under suspicion when fellow employees noticed he and his partner were the only ones who were not suffering unpleasant symptoms that included fever, sweating, splitting headaches and a very fast heartbeat. They said they had been getting these for as many as six or seven years. When they investigated further, they found a bottle in the kitchen containing a medicine known as Colme – Calcium Cyanamid - which is given to alcoholics to provoke a reaction that makes them very ill if they drink, as part of their
detoxifying therapy. In large quantities and given to the wrong person, it can be very dangerous. Their suspicions have been further compounded by the fact that the previous boss of the restaurant died suddenly of a heart attack in May 2011. He did not have a post-mortem and has been cremated, but it is only now that investigators are questioning whether his death had some relation to the alleged poisoning. The motive seems to be the fact that the accused did not get along with his colleagues and there was often conflict and arguments. Since his arrest, the accused has refused to comment on the case. (article: www.thinkspain.com)
Louvre Museum Returns Nazi-looted Artwork
Seven paintings taken from their Jewish owners in the 1930s are being returned to their surviving relatives as part of an ongoing French effort to give back looted, stolen or appropriated art. The works include four paintings that currently hang in the Louvre in Paris. Six of the pieces were owned by Richard Neumann, an Austrian Jew who sold off his collection at a fraction of its value in order to leave France. The seventh was stolen in Prague from Josef Wiener, a Jewish banker. All seven were destined for display in an art gallery that Adolf Hitler wanted to build in Linz, the Austrian city in which he grew up. The gallery was to have been filled with artworks looted across Europe by the Nazis from museums and private collections, many of them Jewish. The claims of the families involved were validated by the French government in 2012 after years spent researching the works’ provenance. The six works from the Neumann collection are to be restored to his grandson Tom Selldorff, now 82 and a resident of the US.
Pope Benedict Hints He Will Retire Into Seclusion
The outgoing head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI, has hinted he will withdraw into seclusion after stepping down at the end of this month. “Even if I am withdrawing into prayer, I will always be close to all of you... even if I remain hidden to the world,” he told a meeting of Roman priests. The pontiff, 85, shocked the world’s biggest Christian Church on Monday when he announced his resignation. He cited his advanced age as the reason for resigning. According to the Vatican’s semi-official newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, the Pope took the decision to resign after his trip to Mexico and Cuba in 2012. The Vatican confirmed on Thursday that Pope Benedict had hit his head during the March trip to Mexico, but denied the accident had any role in his decision. According to a report in Italy’s La Stampa newspaper, the Pope was lightly injured after getting up in the middle of the night in an unfamiliar bedroom during the trip, with blood staining his hair and sheets. Earlier this week, the Vatican said for the first time that Pope Benedict had a pacemaker, and that he had undergone surgery to replace the batteries three months ago. The Pope appears to be planning a complete retreat from the public eye, the BBC’s Alan Johnston reports from the Vatican. However, he is expected to spend his retirement in a monastery at the Vatican and his relationship with his successor as pope is bound to be an endless source of speculation, our correspondent adds. A new pope is expected to be elected by cardinals before Easter, which falls on 31 March this year.
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New ‘transparency law’ to stem political corruption
Severe penalties for politicians who fail to comply
Spain is set to launch a new ‘anticorruption’ law in an attempt to prevent scandals such as the gürtel case or the bárcenas slush-fund allegations. According to the Global Right to Information Rating, 93 countries in the world have transparency laws in place, but Spain is not one of these. A draft text for a new transparency law was approved in Parliament in March last year, but has undergone numerous amendments after being consulted by experts and members of the public. The part of the law which comes under the heading of
the Good Governing Code will become effective as soon as it is approved, but the section on transparency has a deadline of a year. This law was one of Rajoy’s electoral campaign promises, and also one of the previous socialist government’s intentions when the country was run by José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero. It has always been aimed at public administrations, meaning the Royal household could be exempt, and even the central government was expected to be – although an about-turn by Rajoy’s cabinet means it will apply to them all, even heads of State. The transparency law will force the government to reveal a full breakdown of public expenditure online, as well as the salaries and job contracts of all politicians in the public eye, audit reports, end-of-year tax declarations and final accounts, full details on contracts awarded to companies for public works and other services – even small ones – and budget information, and will allow any resident of any standing or capacity to request further details, which they must be granted. A set table of politicians’ pay, from mayors of small villages right up to the presidents of the central and regional governments, will be published – mayors will get paid according to the number of inhabitants in the town they run, and salaries will be capped so that no politician can be earning a higher salary than one at a superior level.
SEISMIC THOUGHTS
rEPORT BY rOB bARNES
It would seem that Graham Knight, Director, Oficina de Atencio’n de Residents International, Ayuntamiento of Torrevieja, has taken a pointer from the motto of H.M. Royal Observer Corps., now sadly, no longer an active unit in the United Kingdom, with the Torrevieja Earthquake Protocol, for, as the R.O.C. were proud to say, for many years, “Forewarned is Forearmed”. The Ayuntamiento of Torrevieja, along with the regional government and emergency services, are very soon to present an “Action plan”, in case an earthquake hits the area, specifically, in Torrevieja. The plan has been put together with valuable input from various experts, with the benefit of previous experience and studies. The police, ambulance, fire brigade, military, municipal technicians, engineers, architects and of course, the Cruz Roja. School heads will also become involved. During March, there will be a real-life “Simulation”, to test out the plans so far. An integral part of the “Earthquake Action Plan”, is the deployment of a number of authorised volunteers, who would provide “Up to the moment” intelligence through reconnaissance in various areas of the town of Torrevieja. In putting the plan together, Neighbourhood Watch Associations will provide volunteers, and co-ordinate their participation. The idea is that N.H.W. appointed volunteers, would, following this natural disaster, check out the area where they live, feeding back information to a central control point. Members would visit their neighbours to ensure there is no immediate emergency, and if there is, ensure that help is called for. A second wave of “Volunteers”, who have skills in first aid, fire fighting, and police work, would be called on to offer a more “Hands on” type of assistance. Whilst the N.H.W. Association (Vecinos Co-opererando) will co-ordinate the list of volunteers, and participate in the protocol, it is likely that there may not be sufficient members to cover all areas of Torrevieja (The plan is thought to require around 100 volunteers). Before the end of February, it is hoped that potential volunteers will be asked to attend a meeting, to discuss their duties. Anyone willing to become involved in this important voluntary initiative, is asked to contact the secretary of Neighbourhood Watch, Paula Welsh, on nhwintorrevieja@yahoo. com It should be stated, that although at this time, it is very much a Torrevieja initiative, names will be dropped onto a list, and contact made, should the Earthquake Watch / Report Team scheme be rolled out into surrounding areas. Rob Barnes moved to live in Spain, 7 years ago. In the UK, amongst other things, he was the Chair of the Midlands Regions, Independent Television Commission. His hobbies include Industrial Archaeology, Mine exploration and photography (Sierra Minera) and is on a quest to get a quality cast conditioned real ale here in Spain! Email Rob at garfieldglencroft@hotmail.com
Failure on the part of any government member to comply with the new transparency law in full will be considered either a breach of financial and budgetary management; a conflict of interest, or a disciplinary matter – and a ‘serious breach’ can mean the politician in question is immediately removed from his or her post and banned from holding public office for between five and 10 years. At worst, a public figurehead who does not adhere to the terms of the new law could face between one and four years in prison. Less serious offences can still lead to the offender losing his or her public pension and severance pay or being forced to refund the misused public funds in question or tax which has been avoided, plus interest. Breaches can involve concealment of invoices or contracts, failure to supply the requisite financial documentation requested by tax authorities and the courts, or straying outside the limits of the permitted public funding deficit. Research shows that reports of corruption in Spain are damaging its international image, although Rajoy and other top-flight members of the PP party all deny receiving cash in envelopes as ‘off-the-books’ wage top-ups from former treasurer and senator, Luis Bárcenas, who is currently under arrest for this and alleged money-laundering offences relating to multi-million-euro accounts held in Swiss banks.
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Valentine’s Lunch Presentation
A presentation was made by the Chairperson Mrs Gill Burden, to Mrs Anne Macrae-Clifton for her long and dedicated service to the Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch No 3456, Anne along with her late husband who was a Past President, were founder members 15 years ago, and Anne still supports us as she always has. Anne served in the Royal Navy, (W.R.E.N.s), God Bless you Anne
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New Lion Members swell with pride
Lions Club President Janette Bennett welcomed two new members to The Torrevieja Costa Lions Club at the start of the February Business meeting. Tom and Sylvia Antrobus from Atalaya Park near Quesada have been attending Lions events since the Duck Race took place in Formentera last September and having attended the requisite number of events and meetings, were invited to become full members. The induction procedure which is relatively simple was duly fulfilled and both Tom and Sylvia are looking forward to their new roles within the Club. The Club meets in Hotel Cabo Cervera, La Mata on the second Thursday of every month. November to March at 1700 hrs. April to October at 1930hrs. The Lions are keen to bring in suitable members to their Club. If you would like to be considered for membership contact Membership Director Dave on davedanie@gmail.com. For more information go to www.torreviejacostalions.org
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Black and White Sixties Night was hosted by Anita and Dave Patrick owners of Quesada Country Club and once again they continue to help raise money for The Children’s Home in Elche. Eighty people sat down to a very special three course meal, Cyn Chew who was eighty herself that day celebrated her birthday in style - with 26 of the guests being her friends she also made a few more on the night. Over €300 was raised during the evening for the Children’s Home in Elche and this included a generous donation from a gentleman in England. The Fantastic Band PDQ added to the fun of the evening with a great competiton to guess who wrote and first recorded “Every Time You Walk In The Room” Many thanks go to all of our sponsors and local businesses who donated raffle prizes. Pictured here are just some of our very generous sponsors, Pepe Barcelo was yet again our main sponsor and kindly donated all of the Black and White Balloons, he is represented by Antonio Javier Lopez and Julio Casas and kind donations were made from Katie Turbefield from Panache Hair and Beauty and Cheryl Simmons from Diamond Flores who inflated 30 Balloons! Cheryl also donated a plant and the beautiful bouquet for the winner of the competition and patiently untangled 30 balloons after bringing them in on a windy afternoon! More businesses who kindly donated
raffle prizes were: Quesada Gold Centre, GM Events, One Stroke Art, Hair OTT, The Vestry, Aero Autos and Let’s Eat and Unique Hairdressers, many thanks to all of you. Quesada Country Club is all about fun and they are great fundraisers the competition was a “Ladies Only” competition and Pete from PDQ told me straight away the song “Every Time You Walk In The Room” was written and first recorded by Jackie DeShannon in 1963 the winner was presented with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a voucher to have a full body massage at Panache Hair and Beauty in Quesada. Graeme Mykal provided even more magic on the night with table magic and also a fabulous stage show. There will be a repeat performance soon and the only changes will be a different menu and perhaps a different colour theme! Susan Reader one of the guests said: “This is a great place to hold charity events. Anita and Dave and all of their staff are so helpful and nothing is ever too much trouble. Cyn and Alan Chew have been friends of ours for many years and I was able to celebrate her 70’s birthday with her and Alan here in Spain and now I am delighted that she chose to celebrate her 80th not only with me but also to help raise money for charity! Well done Cyn shall I start planning for your ninetieth now? Or shall we concentrate on a Summer Ball first?
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Samaritans in Spain Things - they are a changing!
With the start of the New Year, Samaritans in Spain are seeing some major changes and expanding their service. Steven Ashley, the founding father of the organisation here in Spain is stepping down after being its President since its inception over 5 years ago. His energy and knowledge will be sorely missed, but he has promised that the organisation can call on his support and backup whenever needed. Chris Sumter takes over as President, bringing with her a long history of support, therapy and counseling spanning over 40 years in the UK, Singapore, Thailand and now Spain. She is taking on and leading a dynamic and vibrant team of volunteers into a new phase of its life. In addition, three new Trustees have been appointed to further stimulate and develop the organisation. The most important change is that Samaritans in Spain are expanding their contact time from its current 4 hours nightly to a full 24 hours service, with immediate effect. This has already been successfully piloted over the past three months, and can be facilitated by the growing number of volunteers coming forward. There is still a need for more volunteers however, and if you have some spare time you would like to donate to this worthy cause please see their website at www.costablancasamaritans. com or contact joinus@costablancasamaritans.com. To ensure a very high standard of support for the callers, all volunteers undergo a full four days training followed by 40 hours mentored listening, this follows the guidelines set up by Samaritans UK. There follows continued training to develop skills to more fully assist the callers. The next major change is the opening of a multi-purpose centre at Punta Marina on the border of Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa. This will open fully in March 2013 and will incorporate a charity shop where you can find all kinds of treasures to purchase, or where donations to be offered in the shop may be left; a drop in centre which is secluded and private where an individual wanting to speak face to face with a
support volunteer is very welcome and finally the call centre. Life sometimes can be a very lonely place, no matter how many family and friends you have around you, and it can be very helpful to be able to speak to someone not directly linked to your issues. This is where the Samaritans in Spain can help. If you need support at any time there are a variety of ways of getting that support from our well trained and professional, though voluntary, supporters. You can: • call 902 88 35 35 open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year • drop into the charity shop at Punta Marina between 10am and 2pm Monday to Saturday for a chat, or • email pat@costablancasamaritans.com. . Whichever route you take, you can rest assured that you will receive a listening ear from a well trained volunteer, and that it will take place in the strictest confidence. You do not need to leave any details, not even your name, and conversations and phone numbers are not recorded.
Welcome GO SATELLITE! Getting British TV here in Spain can be a confusing and daunting task and finding a reliable and informative company is vital. Welcome GO SATELLITE! GO SATELLITE was set up 8 years ago by husband and wife team Ian and Deborah. Ian has more than 20 years experience, having spent 10 years with SKY In Home Services in the UK, where he worked on the specialist heights team as well as SKY´S Prestigious VIP Team which caters for the “stars”, therefore the quality of his workmanship is extremely high! After leaving SKY, Ian set up his own business in the UK and ran this very successfully for 5 years before moving to Spain.
WHERE ARE WE? GO SATELLITE is based in Ciudad Quesada and covers most of the Costa Blanca. SATISFIED CUSTOMERS! Over the past 8 years the company has installed hundreds of satellite TV systems for individuals, companies and communities. The Go Satellite system uses highest quality
Portuguesemanufactured dishes and r e q u i r e s NO monthly payments. Packages are available to suit everybody´s requirements and budget. GO SATELLITE offer expertise, reassurance and a proven track record, which can be backed up by many a satisfied customer. WHY ARE WE DIFFERENT?
Ian said “Being a small company has its advantages. We offer a personal service and get to know all our customers by name. It’s important to us that people fully understand and are happy with the service we are providing.
We realise that the technology involved can be confusing but we are happy to spend time with our customers to ensure that they get the best system for their needs”. CUSTOMER SERVICE Any concerns or queries are dealt with in a clear and professional manner and clients can call Ian at any point if they have any queries. This ensures that all of their customers have complete peace of mind throughout the lifetime of the service. Added to that is the fact that GO SATELLITE is a fully legal, Spanish registered business that provides individual, company and community installations with a free no obligation site survey. Go Satellite is going from strength to strength! COME AND MEET US!
They have now opened a new office in the Business Centre Calle Los Arcos No7 Ciudad Quesada. So you can now come and meet us and we will endeavour to help you with all of
your TV queries.
OTHER SERVICES Go Satellite not only provide television but are also able to provide internet and telephone services. Packages are available to suit all with a switch on/off service available for non residents. DISH ISSUES? Here at Go Satellite, we use only Top Quality Portugese dishes and Invacom LNB’s. Sky Packages are also available: Full HD Package 20€ per month (which includes Sports & Movies). If you do not have room or do not wish to have a dish, give us a call as we have a solution! At Go Satellite, we will endeavour, to provide TV for everyone. So, if you are fed up of missing your favourite programs or you have lost your TV signal and do not want to lose out any more, then call Ian or Deborah on 965 725 670 or 646 645 579 or call into our office to find out more about GO SATELLITE and its services. Alternatively check out the website: www.freetvspain.com
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Getting British TV here in Spain can be a confusing and daunting task and finding a reliable and informative company is vital.
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...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
music with mark The Four Tops are an American vocal quartet, whose repertoire has included doo-wop, jazz, soul, R&B, disco, adult contemporary, and show tunes. Founded in Detroit, Michigan as The Four Aims, lead singer Levi Stubbs (born Levi Stubbles, a cousin of singer Jackie Wilson) and group mates Abdul “Duke” Fakir, Renaldo “Obie” Benson and Lawrence Payton remained together for over four decades, having gone from 1953 until 1997 without a single change in personnel. Among a number of groups who helped define the Motown Sound of the 1960s, including The Miracles, The Marvelettes, Martha and the Vandellas, The Temptations, and The Supremes, the Four Tops were notable for having Stubbs, a baritone, as their lead singer; most groups of the time were fronted by a tenor. In 1964, Motown’s main songwriting/ production team of Holland-Dozier-Holland created a complete instrumental track without any idea of what to do with it. They decided to craft the song as a more mainstream pop song for the Four Tops, and proceeded to create “Baby I Need Your Loving” from the lyric-less instrumental track. Upon its mid-1964 release, “Baby I Need Your Loving” made it to number 11 on the United States Billboard pop charts. However, the song proved to be much more
popular on trend-setting radio stations in key U.S. markets; Baby I Need Your Loving was a strong top 10 hit on both WMCA in New York, and WKNR in Detroit—stations listened to by radio people all over the country because these stations broke new artists and songs. After the single’s success The Tops were pulled away from their jazz material and began recording more material in the vein of “Baby I Need Your Loving.” The first follow-up single, “Without the One You Love (Life’s Not Worth While)”, missed both the pop and R&B Top 40 charts by only thirty positions but the next single “Ask the Lonely”, released early in 1965, was a Top 30 pop hit and a Top Ten R&B hit, and the from there, the Tops’ fortunes began to improve. After scoring their first number 1 hit the often-recorded and revived “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)” in June 1965, the Four Tops began a long series of successful hit singles. Among the first wave of these hits were the Top 10 “It’s the Same Old Song”, “Something About You”, “Shake Me, Wake Me (When It’s Over)”, and “Loving You is Sweeter Than Ever”. Four Tops records often represented the epitome of the Motown Sound: simple distinctive melodies and rhymes, call-and-response lyrics, and the musical contributions of The Funk Brothers. Holland-Dozier-Holland wrote most of Levi Stubbs’ vocals in a tenor range, near the top
You can listen to Mark Davies on Costa Calida International Radio, Mon, Wed and Fri evenings 7.00 till 9.00 on 90 and 100 FM or www.costacalidaradio.com
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of his range, in order to get a sense of strained urgency in his gospel preacher-inspired leads. In addition, H-D-H used additional background vocals from female background vocalists The Andantes on many of these songs, to add a high end to the low-voiced harmony of The Tops, with “Loving You Is Sweeter than Ever” being one of the few exceptions..... August 1966 brought the release of the Four Tops’ alltime biggest hit, and one of the most popular Motown songs ever: “Reach Out I’ll Be There”, which hit number 1 on the U.S. pop charts and soon became The Tops’ signature song. It was almost immediately followed by the similar sounding “Standing in the Shadows of Love”; its depictions of heartbreak reflected the polar opposite of the optimism expressed in “Reach Out”. It was another Top 10 hit for the Tops. The Top 10 U.S. hit “Bernadette” centered around a man’s all-consuming obsession with his lover, continued the Four Tops’ successful run into April 1967, followed by the Top 20 hits “7-Rooms of Gloom”, and “You Keep Running Away”. By now, The Tops were the most successful male Motown act in the United Kingdom (in the United States, they were second to The Temptations), and began experimenting with more mainstream pop hits. They scored hits with their versions of Tim Hardin’s “If I Were a Carpenter” in late 1967 (mid-1968 in the U.S.) and the Left Banke’s “Walk Away Renée” in early 1968. These singles and the original “I’m In a Different World” were their last hits produced by Holland-Dozier-Holland, who left Motown in 1967 after disputes with Berry Gordy over royalties and ownership of company shares. Without Holland-Dozier-Holland, the quality of the Four Tops’ output, like that of most of Motown, began to decline, and hits became less frequent. The group worked with a wide array of Motown producers during the late1960s, including Ivy Hunter, Nicholas Ashford & Valerie Simpson, Norman Whitfield, and Johnny Bristol, without significant chart success. Their first major hit in a long time came in the form of 1970’s “It’s All in the Game”, a pop Top 30/R&B Top Ten hit produced by Frank Wilson. Wilson and The Tops began working on a number of innovative tracks and albums together, echoing Whitfield’s psychedelic soul work with The Temptations. Their 1970 album Still Waters Run Deep was an early ancestor to the concept album. It also served as an inspiration for Marvin Gaye’s 1971 classic album What’s Going On, the title track of which was co-written by The Tops’ Obie Benson. In addition to their own albums, The Tops were paired with The Supremes, who had just replaced lead singer Diana Ross with Jean Terrell, for a series of albums billed under the joint title “The Magnificent Seven”: The Magnificent Seven in 1970, and The Return of the Magnificent Seven and Dynamite! In 1971. While the albums themselves did not do well on the charts, The Magnificent Seven featured a Top 20 version of Ike & Tina Turner’s “River Deep - Mountain High”, produced by Ashford & Simpson. The 1971 single “A Simple Game” featured backing vocals from members of The Moody Blues. The song did not fare well on the U.S. charts, but reached number 3 on the UK charts. In the late-1980s, the Four Tops focused on touring and live performances, only recording one album, 1995’s Christmas Here With You,
The Four Tops released on Motown. On June 20, 1997, 59year-old Lawrence Payton died as a result of liver cancer, after singing for 44 years with the Four Tops who, unlike many Motown groups, never had a single lineup change until then. At first, Levi Stubbs, Obie Benson, and Duke Fakir toured as a trio called The Tops. In 1998 they recruited former Temptation Theo Peoples to join the act to restore the group to a quartet. By the turn of the century, Stubbs had become ill from cancer; Ronnie McNair was recruited to fill in the Lawrence Payton position, and Peoples stepped into Stubbs’ shoes as lead singer (Stubbs died on October 17, 2008, at his home in Detroit). The group was featured in several television specials during this time, including Motown 45, and several by PBS, including a 50th anniversary concert dedicated to the group (available on DVD). The concert turned out to be bittersweet; it featured a brief appearance of the wheelchairbound Levi Stubbs, and a memorial to Lawrence Payton, announced by Obie Benson. Benson appeared on one more PBS special and died on July 1, 2005, from lung cancer. The final PBS special, titled Motown: The Early Years, featured a message of Benson’s passing following the credits. Lawrence Payton’s son Roquel (real name Lawrence Payton, Jr.) replaced Benson as the new bass (Roquel could be seen in the pledge break interviews of Motown: The Early Years). Theo Peoples left the group recently as well and was replaced by Spike Deleon. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, and into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1999. In 2004, Rolling Stone Magazine ranked them number 79 on their list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. In 2005, The Four Tops were inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame. In 2009, the group’s first big hit, “Baby I Need Your Loving”, was voted a Legendary Michigan Song. The group’s first number 1 hit, “I Can’t Help Myself”, was voted a Legendary Michigan Song in 2011. After similar releases in the Motown “Definitive DVD” series on The Miracles, The Temptations, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops’ Motown Definitive DVD, “Reach Out,” was finally released on November 11, 2008. The Four Tops received The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award as part of the 51st Annual Grammy Awards. Along with The Temptations, The Four Tops were and are still my favourite Motown artists. Their songs are timeless classics which will be played, listened to and loved by people for many more years to come.
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Donation from Sierra Espuna Lodge 136
On Tuesday 22nd January IPM Roger Wilkins from the Sierra Espuna Lodge 136, Province of Murcia very kindly donated a cheque for €2000 to members of FAST during one of their training sessions. The gift was the result of money raised during Roger’s year as Worshipful Master. This contribution will go towards the funding of Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and Oxygen Administration training March/April of this year which is vital for the First Aid Responders to perform their duties as members of FAST.
Rosemary and John and the bingo group at Tels Bar have once again donated 150 euros to FAST. This monthly donation is by and large used to replenish our oxygen supplies and maintain the equipment. Can we all at FAST thank you very much for helping to make Camposol a safer place.
Camposolers Community Group Website Camposolers Yahoo is a group website whose membership is restricted to Home Owners in the Camposol Urbanisation. It celebrated its tenth year on the 10th February 2013. Membership of Camposolers includes a simple click of the mouse for Membership of its sister site Camposolers 2003 which provides access to the Camposol Council
Office. If you are a home Owner in Camposol and wish to be a part of Camposol’s Community Group please e-mail reg_ rogers@rocketmail.com for an application to join Camposolers Reg Rogers Owner of Camposolers and Camposolers 2003
LOS PALACIOS GARDEN MEETING Here we are will into 2013 , on the 4 February, we held our first meeting of the year, of the LOS PALACIOS GARDEN GROUP, It was good and encouraging to see so many people there. The new chairman Edward Roberts, conveyed his and the groups thanks and appreciation to the outgoing chairman, David Peak, for all the good work he has done. When the meeting then got off to a start, the discussion opened with the suggestion that a LOS PALACIOS, sign should be placed at each end of current sector A entrances and this should be a key target for 2013, It was then pointed out that the bench at the entrance of LOS PALACIOS, had gone walkies. The feeling of the meeting was that the bus company should be contacted, and a request for a bus shelter to be erected. It was then inevitable the two subjects that concern most voluntary groups that of Money and Helpers on the first subject it was pointed out that we have book shop, that is open every Friday morning, and has an excellent selection,
of hard and soft backs, DVD,s and box puzzles. At the moment this is the main source of our income and the people of LOS PALACIOS, and the surrounding areas should be encouraged to use it. Then another source put forward, was possibly of dances, diners, etc, with this in mind a small entertainment committee was formed. Most people make new years resolutions. Get fitter, go out more, meet new people, what could be more perfect, than to join the garden group, you don’t have to be an Alan Titchmarsh, and you meet people who just want to do something to improve the environment they live in “ every little bit helps “ Let me leave you with this thought, “Because MASA, left us in a mess, does not mean that we have to live in a mess”. The date, time and location of the next meeting: 4th March, 2013 11.00am The Vista Bar Los palacios. All are welcome, come along see what’s happening.
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300 YEARS BETWEEN THEM
The usual monthly lunch held by the Costa Blanca Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association was a special Valentines affair, held at the El Prado restaurant in San Miguel on Valentines day. However, as well as celebrating Valentines day, over forty members helped four ‘Aquarians’ celebrate their 75th birthdays for which a special cake was made. Although a little disappointing, with ‘Health & Safety’ in mind, the number of candles on the cake were restricted to just a few because of the fire risk! and although the birthday boys were a little more confused than normal because the cake was adorned with 70 not 75. However, this little test did not detract from everyone enjoying a slice. Added to the enjoyment and in keeping with the valentines theme, all the ladies were presented with a box of luxurious chocolates. Although there were only five chocolates in the box, it was the thought that counts? Another successful lunch in happy and convivial company. A theme that From left to right Graham Distin, Brian Bourdon, runs throughout the Norman Scotting and Bruce Heath. monthly lunches. If you like what you read and would like to join us why not contact the Secretary, Pat Distin, 966786635 for details. You do not have to be an ex RAF person to join , just accept the ethos of the Association. Thanks Bruce Heath The Birthday Cake President/Publicity
The
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Bowling ∙ Snooker ∙ Darts Quiz Nights Pool Table Social Dancing Comedy & Entertainment Nights
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Late licence (3.30am) if needed T he Cadillacs 4.30pm to 6.15pm , Entry 5€
tuesday Ballroom Dancing 8pm -10pm Thursdays FUN QUIZ 8.30pm Friday Closed from 6pm for private parties.
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Saturdays See guide below
SATURDAY 23rd febRuary
lennon & mccartney tribute 2 course meal + show 8pm 10€. Show only 9.30pm 3€
SATURDAY 2nd march
CHER TRIBUTE plus SANTANA + DJ HELEN 2 course meal + show 8pm 10€, show only 9.30PM 3€
SATURDAY 9th march
STATUS QUO TRIBUTE + DJ HELEN 2 COURSE MEAL + SHOW 8PM 10€ Show only 9.30pm 3€
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FUN NIGHT AT THE RACES
Calle El Pino esq. Calle Abedul, Ciudad Quesada theclubatquesada@gmail.com www.theclubquesada.com
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
fast mazarron donation
Mara Dog rehoming
Fenris is our wolf dog, when we found Fenris he was very ill, he has Leishmania but has made a full recovery and now only needs Alopurinol for one week a month. Fenris needs a very special owner, he needs someone who has patience, and time to invest in him. Ideally he will need to go to someone who does not have other male dogs or small children. He favours women over men but with time and patience he learns to trust men. He loves to play catch and he loves his tummy rubbed. He is not happy in the kennels and likes a home environment. He loves his walks on the lead. If you think that you are that special person for this very special dog, then please contact Keith on 628 811 187 or if you would like to come and meet him with a view to fostering or adopting then call us for more information.
Jane Salter of Mazarron Bowling Club donated 90 euros to FAST at our training session from a collection made after they decided not to send Christmas cards last Christmas. Pictured left to right Gerry Bradshaw Fast Coordinator and Jane Salter
“Future Events for 2013”
July BBQ & Western Theme Night,
2nd & 4th Friday every month
Camposol Golf Club, ‘C’ Date to be confirmed
F.A.S.T Bookstall is back – Camposol ‘B’ Commercial Centre
October Oktoberfest, Beer & Wine
Saturday 23rd March F.A.S.T Easter Fayre, Marianos, Camposol 11am - 3pm
Festival, Camposol Golf Club Date to be confirmed
Sunday 31st March Sponsored Fun
Saturday 23rd November F.A.S.T
Walk and Easter Bonnet Parade (prize for best Bonnet). Sponsorship forms available from FAST bookstall.
April Cabaret Night – Camposol Golf
Club, ‘C’ Sector Date to be confirmed
Saturday 25th May F.A.S.T Spring Ball & Second Anniversary – Amapola Restaurant Bolnuevo - €25
Saturday 15th June Camposol
Fiesta – F.A.S.T Tombola Stall & CPR Demonstration Stall
Christmas Fayre – Marianos Camposol ‘A’ 11am – 3pm Event tickets will be on sale from the bookstall Camposol ‘B’ Commercial Centre 2nd & 4th Fridays each month. Keep watching the press for updates and new events. For information about F.A.S.T please call: 634 314 386 or 626 465 847 or 634 327 730
Valentine’s Lunch
The first event of HELP MURCIA MAR MENOR’s new Luncheon Club was on Valentine’s Day, when a well-attended lunch was held at Diamante’s restaurant, El Mojon. Paul Allen entertained with his romantic ballads and ended up with songs to dance to. HELP raised €84 but the main purpose was to have a good time with such excellent food, good company and wonderful entertainment. Diamante’s will be hosting a lunch for HELP every third Thursday in the month at 1.30 for 2 p.m. start at a cost of €10.50. If you don’t like going out in the dark, this is an opportunity to enjoy yourself during daylight hours. Ring Joan Mitchell 868 185 685 or 678 135 467, Janice Clark on 968 134355 or the office 968570059 for details.
TIME FOR A SPRING CLEAN
Do you have bric a brac, furniture, household items and clothes that you don’t use and want to get rid of? Then HELP Murcia Mar Menor will help you out. We can arrange to collect them or you can bring items to our office at Calle Penélope 11, Los Narejos, (behind the Deutsche Bank) (Telephone 968 570 059). Alternatively you can bring them to our car boot stall, which is at the Autocine, Los Narejos on Sunday mornings from 9 a.m. till 1 p.m. We will be very grateful for any items donated as this is our main source of income to enable us to carry out our good work. HELP aims to provide a service to ALL • Mobility Equipment Loans • Hospital Visiting • Information on Living in Spain, • Support Groups • Interpreter details • Assisting and liaising with other charities • Listening Ear Team • Donations to good causes
PALS (Protection and Life Saving) PALS (Protection and Life Saving) announce with some degree of satisfaction that this week they have placed an order for additional medical equipment to the amount of 11250 Euros. This equipment is destined for the 112 and emergency services in Mazarron and includes 3 new defibrillators to be located in the municipality including at the new covered swimming pool. This brings to a total of 18 such machines located with various users in and around Mazarron that PALS have supplied and form part of the 188000Euros worth of equipment and assistance provided locally since 2000, when PALS was formed. It is in recognition in a way of our thanks to our Spanish hosts for allowing us the privilege of living in their beautiful country and the equipment that PALS provide is beyond the normal budgetary levels available to the emergency teams. Many of the local ambulances carry equipment provided by PALS there are two inshore rescue jet skis, two disaster tents and much other specialised equipment that would otherwise not have been available and PALS thank their supporters. Money from events, sponsorships and trips and holidays create a fund from which identified shortfalls call be identified. PALS had a leading role in the concert for the Earthquake in Lorca at which an additional 6400 Euros worth of life saving medical equipment was donated. This year PALS as the founding member of CAFÉ (Community Ambulance Fund Espana) have decided that until sufficient money is raised for the new ambulance to dedicate all monies raised this year to
the CAFÉ fund which currently stands at 45000.Euros negotiations are in hand with the 112 and Red Cross in Mazarron to establish the purchase and management of this Additional vehicle. If you wish to know more about PALS call 626460465 or see us on our website www.pals.sms4.biz Tickets for some really unusual Events are available but do tend to sell out quickly for it is PALS policy to offer value for money with quality and confidence . Please remember PALS DO IT 4 U. Upcoming events include a sell out 3 nights in Benidorm which was at an incredible 125 Euros full board, A trip to Mojacar market lunch in Bedar (included) and into ICELAND on 17th April for 25 Euros. The same price for a new venue in the middle of the Sierra Espunas at La Perdiz, with stops at Alhama de Murcia Market and a visit to the Roman baths in that beautiful town on 28th May. The Greek Island and Turkey Cruise is sold out but its always worth putting your name down for any cancellations. That’s at the end of April and June 24th sees PALS off to SALAMANCA, SEGOVIA and Avila for 3 nights at 210 Euros. October we have a really special treat. 5 nights in the North of Spain in the Basque country, full board 4 star Hotel excursions included every day 285 Euros (The first coach already full) Names and deposot6s being taken for second and demand is high.. Again PALS thank everyone for their support in these difficult times
PALS (Forthcoming events)
17th April Coach to Mojacar Market and town, lunch in Bedar and visit to ICELAND Coach from Puerto de Mazarron, CountrtyClub and Camposol 25 Euros 28th May Coach to Alhama de Murcia Market visit the Roman Baths then up and into the middle of the Sierra Espunas for lunch at the traditional La Perdiz. Same pick up points same price 25Euro 24th 4 places only left for three nights Salamanca, Segovioa and Avila 210 Euros 6th October the trip of the year 5 nights in the Basque country, full board, 4 star hotel excursions everyday included 285 Euros Details from 626 460465 or visit PALS on A Saturday on Camposol B at the Trevi from 11 till 1.30 or at SARALARAS in Puerto de Mazarron each Wednesday from 1 till 3 PALS DO IT 4 U, full details on www.pals.sm4.biz
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Los Amigos de Mazarron fc gala evening and dinner
Los Amigos de Mazarron FC are putting the final touches to preparations for their spectacular 4th Annual Gala Evening and Dinner to be held at the Hotel la Cumbre, Puerto de Mazarron on Tuesday 12th March. Celebrity soccer stars Steve Daley, Tony Currie and Mark Higgins will be flying in to Spain to spend a few days in Mazarron and to attend the various functions organised for them. Steve, the former Wolves and Manchester City star is the guest speaker at the dinner and will also take part in the Celebrity Golf Day with Tony Currie at the Sensol Golf Club on the day before the dinner. All the stars will attend a VIP reception for sponsors and VIP guests which will be held at Don Ricardo’s Bar & Restaurant, Puerto de Mazarron on Monday 11th March when a sumptuous hot buffet will be provided for the guests. Justin Sane will be the Master of Ceremonies at the Dinner which is sponsored by New Images and Ibex Insurance and he will again entertain the audience with his unique brand of comedy. Music will be provided by the Beagles and the many ladies present will be able to dance into the early hours to their fabulous sounds. A few tickets remain at 40€ each, which includes a five course meal with local beer, house wine and soft drinks during the serving of dinner. Please telephone Andy on 634 040 990, Dave on 626 465 847, email losamigosdemazarronfc@ hotmail.co.uk or call at the Trevi Bar, Sector B Camposol any Thursday between 3 pm and 4 pm. Dress code is collar and tie. Items for the auction of football and sporting memorabilia include autographed framed photographs of Wayne Rooney and Sir Garfield Sobers, a Queen’s Park Rangers autographed shirt, a Stoke City autographed shirt, two tickets for a Premier League Manchester City home game and other items from Manchester United and Manchester City. There are also some places left for the Celebrity Golf Day at the Sensol Hotel on Monday 11th March with Steve Daley and Tony Currie. The cost to play 18 holes with either Steve or Tony is 50€ which includes lunch afterwards or just to play 18 holes in the competition 32.50€ with the chance to have a drink with Steve and Tony in the bar afterwards. Please ring Dave on 600 631 956 for full details or email losamigosdemazarronfc@hotmail.co.uk
SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
ANOTHER SPECTACULAR NIGHT FOR ‘ADHOC’
Once again the folk at Ad Hoc Theatre Company staged a fund-raising night at ‘Restaurante Los Rosales’ recently, with top acts enthralling the audience.
Top of the bill was the fabulous PETER SAUL, who entertained with songs from the musicals. Peter, who has played Valjean in ‘Les Miserables’ in London’s West End, is about to recommence rehearsals for the hit show ‘ Burn The Floor,’ which opens at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London in March. He is currently resting, having toured the World with this show for over 2 years. What an amazing voice, and what a thoroughly nice person! The ever popular NICK GOLD, rushed from his radio show to perform on the night, and, as always, he didn’t disappoint with his rich, golden voice. RONNIE TAYLOR (‘Justin Sane’ & ‘Elton Ron’) opened the show with his comic routine, which resulted in a lot of laughter and a few titters. He also closed the show with his excellent tribute to Elton John. Peter Saul joined him on stage at the end when they sang the George Michael/Elton John version of ‘Don’t Let the Sun Go Down On Me’, to a standing ovation. What a fantastic night! Special thanks go to Nigel Weeks of Night Out Promotions, who provided and controlled the superb sound. All artistes gave their services freely to aid AD HOC raise money for various charities, and in addition the raffle money on this night went directly to Elche Childrens’ Home.
Supermotoland
brothers set for another fantastic year The Supermoto racing brothers from Murcia are busy training and making final preparations for the first round of this year’s Spanish Supermoto championships held in Seville on the 10th march. 2012 saw the two brothers right at the sharp end of the results with Mat Ford- Dunn finishing 2nd in the SM30 championship and his younger Brother Anthony finishing 4th in the Elite championship despite being injured for part of the season. The potential for great results this year is high, with Mat now one of the favourites to take the newly formed SM Masters 35 class and Anthony moving over to the highly competitive SM Road category that has Spain’s best Supermoto racers competing on an asphalt only circuit. The Supermotoland team have decided to continue with last year’s SML
450 supermoto bikes that are prepared and developed at the Teams base in Murcia. The Brothers have been busy testing alongside a selection of Moto 3 and Moto 2 riders from the motogp world championships to further hone their skills. The Murcia and UK based International removal company ‘Advance Moves’ will continue to be the teams Headline sponsor, but the team are continuing the search for additional sponsors to help the Brothers achieve their goals and benefit from the success and publicity that 2013 has to offer. Anyone interested in joining the team as a sponsor should visit the www. supermotoland.com website for further details and contact information. The website also contains race reports, videos and photos that will keep everyone up to date with the teams progress throughout the year.
THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION TORREVIEJA BRANCH 3456
Our Aim is To Help those who Need Help We Meet 2nd Friday of the Month 6.30pm for 7.00pm @ Casa Ventura Restaurant, San Luis for meeting and social after You would be very welcome to attend and see what we do, Ex Service or none Ex Service can become members Membership Secretary; (Pauline), 966 704 146 TRBL Torrevieja Website Public Relations Committee Member; (Rick) 966 790 441
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
EROSKI SAN JAVIER COLABORATING WITH “FLAMENCO FOR ALL”
What wonderful news in this crisis ridden era to get support and collaboration from a big Company as is Eroski San Javier. The non-profit Cultural Association FLAMENCO FOR ALL has been chosen by Eroski San Javier for the work it is doing in integrating many different nationalities using flamenco dance to introduce foreigners living in this area to the beauty of Spanish Culture. Raquel Peña, the President and Director has already been honoured with numerous awards for her work in this field, chosen Woman of the Year by the Orihuela Town Hall 2010, and named Teacher of the Year 2012 by the Coast Rider Pride of Spain Awards just to name a few. The Association always supports charities with performances, has a Sevillanas Social Club and encourages integration with over 10 nationalities that are members. Many exciting projects are being discussed and the first will be a series of free performances by the Flamenco For All Amateur Dance Group in the Dos Mares Commercial Centre with the first one held on February 9th and further dates to be announced.
AECC, The Torrevieja Stroke Group, HAH, to just name a few. AGM and Sevillanas Club on Sunday, February 24th, 8:00pm at Bulerias on the Cabo Roig round about. Important update on the Raquel Peña Professional Flamenco Dance Company. Reservations are now being accepted for their next performance at The Torrevieja Municipal Theatre on May 19th at 5:30pm, tickets €10 and €15. The elected charity for a €2500 donation is AFA(Friends of Alzheimers,Torreveija) and the program will include many new choreographies, by Raquel Peña with live musicians and a new luxury wardrobe designed by one of Spain’s leading designers. For reservations and information please call 630 689 431 or e-mail: info@ flamencoforall.com
The Flamenco For All Dance Group is having a very busy spring season with many performances, including the Torrevieja Municipal Theatre, shows for the Pink Ladies
Torrevieja Costa Lions Club
The Torrevieja Costa Lions Club is alive and well and needs your help and support. If you would like to join us at a monthly meeting then come along to the Cabo Cevera Hotel at La Mata near Torrevieja on the second Thursday of any month. Meetings start at 17.00 and we can be found in the room at the end of the reception desk. Come and join us as we try to raise money for charities and good causes in the local area and internationally across the world. For more information ring me on 617069064 or mail me on our web site membership@torreviejacostalions.org
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Vega Baja Garden Club A fascinating first meeting for 2013, a debut, a disease and passion! Val Duckworth welcomed members new and old to the February meeting, and reminded everyone of the many tasks to be undertaken in the garden this month, ranging from planting and sowing to pruning and spraying. She then introduced Jacqui Ford, a member, who spoke about her favourite plant “Dalechampia”, an exquisite purple flowering vine-like plant originating from Costa Rica. It grows very quickly, either in pots or in the ground, producing tendrils enabling it to climb well. It is evergreen, with attractive heart shaped leaves, and produces beautiful, large purple bracts with a complex inner, and serrated edge. They look very much like butterflies in flight and provide flowers all year round, weaving their way around the garden. Nobody in the room had one of these plants, and everyone was keen to know more! Anna van Dijk spoke next, about a problem that she first identified in one aloe species and which spread to others in her own extensive aloe collection. She has also seen affected plants in the countryside around Crevillente and Rojales, although she believes this to be a new infection in our area. The symptoms are misshapen, haphazard and deformed growth of flowering stem or leaf, which produce galls. This wind borne disease has the potential to cause rapidly spreading damage and is caused by microscopic arachnid mites. The mites live inside the plant, laying eggs and breeding, but it is their eating of the plant tissue which produces chemicals that cause the malformations, and eventually overwhelm the plant and cause its death. Anna offered several solutions to the problem, insecticides can work, hygienic disposal of affected plants or leaves is essential, and she advised that we should all be vigilant in our gardens. The final speaker was Val Duckworth. Val spoke about Pasiflora vines, better known to us as passion flowers. They originate
in the South American rain forests, and in the garden they grow quickly and freely, their tendrils allowing them to climb; in a smaller garden environment they usually need pruning. The intricate flower was used by Spanish missionaries to symbolise the Passion of Christ, hence the name. Flowers are in a variety of colours in the white, blue, red and purple spectrum. Some very attractive species are purely ornamental, producing flowers and small, inedible orange fruits. The edible variety, Pasiflora Egilis, produces a short lived flower, and a green fruit that will fall to the ground, and turn crinkly and brown without compromising its delicious contents. The aromatic seeds within can be pressed though a sieve to produce juice, or can be sprinkled on ice cream or other deserts, to the delight of all diners! There was then a general question and answer time, followed by the usual raffle of plants. The next meeting will be held on Monday 4th March, at 1.45 for a 2.00pm start, at Los Rosales Restaurant on the CV895 Lemon Tree Road, Campo de Gaurdamar. There will be talks on the subject of the bird of paradise plant, and another on the topic of indoor plants. If you are interested in gardening and would like to attend the meeting, you will be assured of a warm welcome. For further information, please contact Val Duckworth, tel. 966 716 527.
Speakers in the photo above, from left to right, Jacqui Ford, Val Duckworth, Anna van Dijk.
MIKE BRAIN entertains
Photos of drummer / singer MIKE BRAIN, playing at El Pescadito, Mil Palmeras with Christine and Roger Eames. On Monday 25th February at 8.30pm; this is a one-off visit from UK, Mike is well known to audiences here and is featured on two CDs. His jazz style reminds fans of the velvet tones of Mel Torme.
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Rock ‘n Roll Comes of Age
The “Pure Rock n Roll” Show is being held at Restaurante Los Rosales, Guardamar on Tuesday 26th of February. Starring the lively and talented Woody and the Peckers giving it their own brand of “get up and dance” Rock ‘n Roll. The 3 band members have packed houses in all the venues that they play in. Gary “Woody” Woodward will also be leading the band with the best Buddy Holly Tribute in Spain. The invited charity, who are holding their own raffle will be Age Concern. With the majority of Expats falling into the over 50’s bracket, Age Concern is a charity that we may all need to rely on at some stage. Formed in 1998, Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur depends on donations and sales from their charity shop to help their cause. Amongst the work they do is integrating the elderly with Spanish people and associations. Their Lifeline volunteers fulfil a very important role in welfare in the community. Their drop in centre in La Siesta has something interesting on everyday of the week to “help make life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience” . Tickets are 10 Euros for show and meal. Doors open at 7pm. On sale now from Restaurante Los Rosales, CV895. Cards and More La Marina, Card and Gift Shop Quesada, Hire Centre San Luis, Card Place Benimar and Punta Prima, and from Age Concern Drop in Centre San Luis. Or call 606 192 691 / 697 501 992. email losrosalesshows@gmail.com
Easter comes early in San Miguel
The season arrived on the 16th of this month in San Miguel, when a packed Casa de Cultura resounded to the well-known “Easter Hymn”. “Opera San Miguel” gave two performances of “Cavalleria Rusticana” in the annual opera workshop, which combined the talents of local singers with some imported from the UK. Written back in 1890, the opera is short enough often to be combined with Leoncallo’s “Pagliacci” - hence affectionate references to “Cav and Pav”. Both works are being performed all over the world as we speak. This stand-alone version brought Mascagni some forty curtaincalls when it was first performed; the Anglo-Spanish audience here was equally delighted (- good to see programmes in both languages available). Thanks also to the Mayor and Ayuntamiento, and Da.Inmaculada Hernandez Valero and D. Abraham Rodriguez Lopez for their help in facilitating the week’s rehearsals and the two performances. The Principals (Paulina Rossi, Mary Coffield, Melanie Roberts, Alan Phelps and Bill Lewis) together with accompanist Jean Hancock, brought the whole thing off magnificently, with the support of the company, under the direction of Katy Pargeter and her Musical Director-husband Tom. San Miguel is lucky to have these two gifted devotees living there (albeit part- time) to initiate and fulfil such high-standard glorious cultural events
Euro Leisure helps Alzeimer’s and Stroke Support Group
Once again the Alzeimer’s Association of Torrevieja was invited to a meeting of the members of Euro Leisure Club held at The Coopers’ Arms in Quesada.
Their President Pauline made a donation of 500 euros on behalf of the members to Judy and Jennie of the Alzeimer’s Association (AFA). Judy told the members that there are three things that we all find we need support with as we get older, social contact and friendship, which they find at Euro Leisure, the after effects of a Stroke, which they can access from The Stroke Support Group and perhaps the most frightening and as yet not fully understood, that of dementia, Alzeimer’s disease being the most common. Donations such as these are so very much needed and appreciated as both organisations totally depend of public funding to enable the continuation of the professional care and support they give to so many people. Jenny reminded members that a good way they can continue their support is to watch for notices of events organised in aid of Alzeimer’s and Stroke Support, and to make sure those are the ones they chose.
THE HELP ASSOCIATION OF VEGA BAJA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting for members of the HELP Association of Vega Baja is to be held on: TUESDAY 26th FEBRUARY 2013 10.00 for 10.30 am At the RESTAURANTE PIZZERIA ASTURIAS(next to water tower) CARRETERA TORREVIEJA CARTAGENA A current membership card will be required for admission to the meeting.
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Toddler swallowed 42 fridge magnets
pause for thought
Lent, which this year started on February 13th, is the season when we Christians have opportunity to reflect on our lives, our priorities and temptations, as we recall the time that Jesus spent alone, being tempted by Satan. And with that in mind I felt the following poem, written by Lois Blanchard Eades and read at our Church on the Sunday before Lent, may prove helpful to any who find such reflection difficult. If Jesus came to your house to spend a day or two But gave no prior warning, I wonder what you’d do. I know you’d give your nicest room to such an honoured Guest, And all the food you’d serve to Him would be the very best, And you would keep assuring Him you’re glad to have him there That serving Him in your own home was joy beyond compare. But when you saw Him coming, would you meet Him at the door With arms outstretched in welcome to your heavenly Visitor? Or would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in? Or hide some magazines and put the Bible where they’d been? Would you turn off the radio and hope He hadn’t heard? And wish you hadn’t uttered that last, loud, hasty word? Would you hide your worldly music and put some hymn books out? Could you let Jesus walk right in, or would you rush about? And I wonder - if the Saviour spent a day or two with you, Would you go right on doing the things you always do? Would you go right on saying the things you always say? Would life for you continue as it does from day to day? Would your family conversation keep up it’s usual pace? And would you find it hard each meal to say a table grace? Would you sing the songs you always sing, and read the books you read, And let Him know the things on which your mind and spirit feed? Would you take Jesus with you everywhere you’d planned to go? Or would you, maybe, change your plans for just a day or so? Would you be glad to have Him meet your very closest friends? Or would you hope they’d stay away until His visit ends? Would you be glad to have Him stay forever on and on? Or would you sigh with great relief when He at last was gone? It might be interesting to know the things that you would do If Jesus Christ in person came to spend some time with you.
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
I have just tried to read the previous article in your favourite paper and give up! It was an overview of how the processor works. Towards the end I said. “I have written a simple exercise for anyone who might be interested in understanding how the computer follows instructions but having run out of space today …. How Prophetic was that? Knowing that space would be short! I also do Tarot Card readings or a Tuesday under the pen name Zelda! (Just joking!). So now, with a little luck, everything will be made clear and might have a little fun doing the exercise.” Lets continue with “The Knowledge” and get on asking a simple question! Who likes Tea? While at University, when I was doing my Teaching Degree, the tutor asked us all to write down the instructions on how to make a cup of tea. So, I am going to do the same to you. Get a pen and paper and write down every step in the process and then compare it to mine (mine might not be totally accurate, but the exercise is to get you thinking like a simple processor). Done? Good. Here is my version of making tea. 1. Search for kettle. 2. Pick up kettle. 3. If not enough water, fill it with more. 4. Place it on the heat source. 5. Start heat source. 6. Find cup 7. find tea container. 8. Open tea container. 9. Take out measure portion of tea. 10. Move tea to cup. 11. Put tea into cup 12. Find Milk and Sugar. 13. Wait for kettle to boil. 14. When boiling remove from heat source and turn off if needed. 15.Pour in to cup. 16. Wait for infusion to take place. 17. Put Milk and Sugar in cup it desired. Now come on, that must have been easy! Or was it? I have not included the motor control and Hand / Eye coordination skills of selecting, holding and manipulating objects. These are the skills that we learned as a baby. When you include these other steps the counter goes from 17 steps to between 65 and 100 steps depending on just how accurate you wish top be! This is how your processor works! Very simply but with only one advantage – It is VERY fast! It really doesn’t matter how fast the processor is it can only work as fast as the slowest components! To get around this problem EVERYTHING is timed and this is the task of the timing circuit and that is all it does, telling everything when it can move about. Easy isn’t it? From here on, most of the sub components are MUCH simpler and should be cover in the next couple of articles. If there is anything that we have covered or you have a subject or question involving computer related technology, that you are having trouble with, drop me a line at the email address below. Good Luck and have a lovely weekend. See you next week. For further information or advice on computing, contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk
Il Duce - part II
Mussolini and Hitler both believed that when Germany invaded Poland, Britain and other countries would remain neutral. Mussolini also thought that Britain and France were finished as players on the world stage and that any war would be short lived with Germany victorious. Britain wanted Italy to side with the Allies, France also tried secretly to get Mussolini to join them but Mussolini refused to talk to them. Italy was massively under prepared for war so when Hitler generously suggested that Mussolini invade Yugoslavia he declined the kind offer. Italy stayed neutral when Hitler invaded Poland but then Germany invaded France and Mussolini joined the Germans. Italy controlled much of southern France including Nice for most of the ensuing war. In the autumn of 1940 with a million soldiers in North Africa, Mussolini attacked the tiny 36,000 British soldiers in Egypt, Sudan and Kenya in East Africa with huge success. Luckily the Italians stopped short of taking the Suez Canal at a place called Mersa Matruh as they had run out of supplies. This was all about controlling the oil supplies coming from the Arabian oilfields and although massively outnumbered the British courageously fought back. The Italians were pushed back nearly 1000kms and in June 1941 lost the port of Tobruk in Libya which had been their many supply route from Italy. Hitler saved the Italians pancetta by sending Rommel and his Afrika Korps to fight the British for the next 3 years. Mussolini’s grand plan for the New Roman Empire inspired him to declare war on Greece at the same time as battling the British in Africa. Greece fought back with great success and the Germans again sent reinforcements leaving Greece under Axis occupation. The book Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is loosely based on this. Slovenia was next and Mussolini deported Slovenians to concentration camps, his plan was to move Italians there instead. The Slovenia campaign was easily the most despicable act by Mussolini and
Surgeons in Russia had to operate after a 12-month-old toddler swallowed more than 40 fridge magnets. The tot’s mum panicked when she noticed that all of the magnets from the family’s fridge had gone missing. The woman, whose name has not been released, rushed her son to hospital near her home in Chelyabinsk. “The child had been in the room alone with the magnets and now they were gone. She thought he must have swallowed them,” said a clinic spokesman. Surgeons confirmed her fears when ultrasound scans found 42 magnets in the tot’s digestive system. Chief paediatric surgeon Nikolay Rostovtsev - who performed the op - said: “Over the years, I had to take a variety of foreign bodies including magnets from young patients. “Once I removed about 20 of them, but this incident of our little patient has broken all records.”
Toy makers defend bank robbery game
Makers of a bank robbery toy set - aimed at children aged from four to ten - say it helps teach youngsters ‘right from wrong’. German manufacturs Playmobil have been slammed by the anti-gun lobby for their £35 ‘Bank and Safe’ toy pack. It comes with everything needed to simulate a bank robbery, including armed robbers and a safe full of gold. Danny Bryan of Communities Against Gun and Knife Crime, said: “We don’t want to be encouraging young people to look at these sorts of things. “I think it is horrendous that young people are given all these images to shape them. It is sending out the wrong message.” But Playmobil marketing manager Jamie Dickinson responded: “We have been producing police play sets for 35 years... “One thing our customer feedback tells us is that it is important that children can be taught, through play, the importance of recognising good from evil and ‘baddies’ from ‘goodies’. “Our ‘cops’ and ‘robbers’, in the guise of policemen, police cars, criminals and jails, enable these scenarios to be created. We fully support creating a safe environment for all children and would hope that in their own small way our sets deliver this in a secure, but believable, way.” thousands were murdered or interned. The remains of the Risiera de San Sabba concentration camp are in northern Italy where tens of thousands were tortured and up to 5000 people were gassed with their bodies burnt. The ovens were blown up by the Germans at the end of the war to try and cover up the war crimes. Another camp at Rab saw thousands killed. Mussolini then supported the Germans in their invasion of the Soviet Union but the Italian army suffered huge casualties and the campaign was massively unpopular with ordinary Italians. This was the beginning of the end and when the Allies invaded Italy in1943, The Italian Grand Fascist Council issued a vote of non-confidence against Mussolini and King Victor had Mussolini arrested and imprisoned. The Germans had other ideas though as they rightly feared the Italians would capitulate and throw their lot in with the Allies. In September 1943 German paratroopers rescued Mussolini without a shot being fired at a place called Gran Sasso. Mussolini greeted his rescuers with the words ‘I knew my friend (Hitler) would not forsake me!’ The Germans set up Mussolini in northern Italy as the ruler of a puppet stated called the Italian Socialist Republic. As the Allies advanced north they took Monte Cassino where there were 75,000 casualties. The end was nigh, a disguised Mussolini attempted to flee Italy to Switzerland in April 1945 along with his mistress Clara in a German convoy but they were both recognised at a checkpoint at Lake Como and shot. Their bodies were taken to Milan and strung up from a lamppost as proof of the dictators’ demise. In 2003 Mussolini’s admirer Silvio Berlusconi made his now infamous comments that Mussolini had only ever sent people on vacation!
Enjoy Stephens musings? Pop over to http://findmeahomeinspain.wordpress.com as the articles are posted on there too...and they’re a bit longer too! Findmeahome are always looking for quality homes for their sales and rental portfolios, please contact Stephen for a valuation: stephen@findmeahome.es Telephone: 636 266 641
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IES CARRUS VISIT EASY HORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE
This month we have had several educational visits from the pupils of IES CARRUS in Elche. They visited the centre in Rojales, to meet some of our rescued residents and get an understanding of
what the aims of the rescue centre are and all the things that we have to consider when running the Centre. From raising money for food, water, vets bills to feeding the horses and cleaning up after them. The pupils enjoyed meeting Cruz, Dexter, Dolores, and the others and saw just how well they are doing since their rescues. Some of the pupils also got to work mucking out and feed some of the horses. It was real pleasure to have such well-behaved children at the rescue centre; they are a credit to IES Carrus. We look forward to seeing more pupils over the next few weeks when they will be visiting us. We would also like to thank all the pupils of IES Carrus for all their fundraising events to help us raise some much needed funds towards a new tractor.
We would love to take this opportunity to invite pupils from other schools in the area to come to visit our Rescue Centre. If your school, class or club wish to visit the rescue centre please contact us as we are currently taking provisional bookings for the forthcoming year. We will be offering afternoons tours,
AECC VALENTINES NIGHT AT THE FOREST BAR
A super time was had by all at the Forest Bar in Dona Pepa on Valentines night. Chefs Kevin and Hayley put on a very seductive menu and Sue and matt decorated the bar so that it had a very romantic and intimate aura. Ricardo provided the music so everyone could work off a few calories (home-made Bailey’s cheesecake has got to be loaded with them) by dancing the night away. But the highlight of the evening was the 156€ raised from a raffle in aid of the AECC (for the early detection of breast, cervical and prostate cancer). The main prize was a meal voucher for 40€ which Sue the landlady donated and was won by regulars Andy and June who were unfortunately in England. The second prize was a hamper full of valentines goodies such as body lotions, perfumes, cava, chocs etc and was won by Sheila Byrne pictured here and the third prize was another hamper which was won by Maureen Barrie who was lucky enough to win the New years hamper as well. With 110€ raised on New Year and the 156€ raised that’s a grand total of 266€ which for a small bar is fantastic. The regular customers not only bought lots of tickets but also donated a lot of the items for the hampers. If you have a business in or around the Quesada area and would like to hold a charity event to raise money for the AECC please contact Debbie Weedon on 966 719847
to schools and other organisations. We can provide lunch facilities for packed lunches and we also have a snack bar.
All that we ask in return is that the children enjoy their day and hopefully take back with them a new love and respect for the animals around them. As we feel that to educate the young on how to behave towards animals at a young age turns them into well rounded individuals in later life. We look forward to hearing for you. To volunteer or to book your school trip - please contact Sue on 652021980 or email rescue@easyhorsecare.net Show your love and support for our beautiful equines by helping EHCRC Foundation: • Visiting our Beauties on Sundays 1pm-4pm • Donate or Buy Items from our Charity Shops • Become an EHCRC Member and Give Them a Voice • Become a Volunteer • Hold a Charity Event on their behalf • Add us to your Face Book • Share our site with your friends www.easyhorsecare.net
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Look Good Feel Great
feel better today! and absolutely brilliant tomorrow
LIFE AFTER STROKE
Torrevieja Stroke Support registered charity firmly believes in this, and as they continue to expand, more volunteers are needed particularly someone (or two) with some knowledge or willingness to acquire some knowledge of stroke, and preferably with some organizing experience or committee skills. The group already have a good dedicated volunteer team, but would like to add extra capacity. Your help is needed to be a part of this interesting team. For more information please contact Louie on 96 671 8964 or Margaret on 96 507 7331. Email: strokesupportgroup@hotmail.com www.torreviejastrokesupport.com
• Wide range of beauty & holistic treatments • toning tables • vibration plates • semi-permanent make-up • teeth whitening • permanent hair removal & photo rejuvenation • Acrylic & Gel Nail Extensions
Tel: 966 719 067
Avda Del mar, 1 bajo,Pueblo Bravo, Ciudad Quesada, Rojales, 03170 Alicante
thebeautyandwellnesscentre@hotmail.com
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
Darren the barber The Barbershop at Quesada Country Club
Cuts from
Modern & Traditional Gents Hairdressing
5€
Tel: 616 592 887
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am- 5pm OUT OF HOURS BY REQUEST Drive through Quesada Arches up main street, take left fork at Caja Murcia Bank. Continue to Consum sign and turn right onto Avenida Costa Azul, continue uphill and take right turn onto Calle Toledo. Country Club / Barber is 200mtrs on right - Look for Childrens Play Area.
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Tension headache
Today: Obviously, you could pop a painkiller. Alternatively, you could tuck into a nice piece of watermelon; it’s rich in magnesium, which boosts circulation and acts as a muscle relaxant - plus it can quash dehydration, another major cause of headaches. Tomorrow: Aim to drink around 1.5 litres of water per day. Regular headache sufferers found their symptoms were reduced considerably - and quality of life had improved - after they’d sipped around seven glasses of water daily for three months, according to a recent study at the University of Maastricht.
Common cold
Today: Feeling a bit sniffly? Make yourself some onion and garlic soup! Both have antibacterial and antiseptic properties, so a soup containing about six onions and a whole garlic can really zap those symptoms before they start to take hold. Tomorrow: Take three doses of herbal remedy echinacea daily: it contains active substances that fight viruses and boost immunity. A recent study from Cardiff University Common Cold Centre found that three daily doses helped reduce the number of recurrent colds by 60%. And when people did succumb to a cold, the length of their illness was cut by an average 26% if they’d taken echinacea.
Insomnia
Today: Can’t drop off or get back to sleep? Try to still your mind. ‘Slow down your internal dialogue,’ says clinical hypnotherapist Dominic Knight. ‘Focus on sleeping blissfully to the exclusion of any other thought. If you fixate on not being able to sleep, it will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.’ Tomorrow: If you suffer from long-term insomnia, consult your GP. Research shows that the most effective treatment for sleep problems is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which aims to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours that may be contributing to insomnia. For more information go to: www.babcp.com
Aching legs
Today: Run yourself a nice warm bath - but add one or two packets of Epsom salts to the water; the active ingredient - magnesium sulphate - is a proven muscle relaxant that will soothe those aches and pains instantly. Tomorrow: Strengthen - and lengthen - your leg muscles by building a quick stretch into your daily routine. The perfect time to do this is after your bath or shower when your muscles are at their warmest. Stand with your hands on your hips. Cross your left foot in front of the right one, ensuring your left leg is slightly bent with heel raised. As you inhale, raise your right arm towards the ceiling. Exhale and lean slightly to your left. Hold for 10 seconds then repeat on the other side.
Constipation
Today: Try a natural laxative. Add 2 dessertspoons of ground flaxseeds to prune juice - a good way to get the bowels moving. Flaxseeds are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for all-round good health too! Tomorrow: ‘Insoluble fibre is important for the formation and easy passage of stools, as it bulks up the stool and speeds up digestion,’ says Jackie Lynch. ‘So make sure you eat plenty of wholegrains, vegetables, nuts and seeds throughout the day to boost your insoluble fibre. And drink plenty of water to ease the fibre through your system.’
Diarrhoea
Today: First and foremost, it’s important to avoid dehydration - so drink plenty of water. Eating soluble fibre can help here, too, as it stays in the gut for longer and can relieve symptoms - increase your intake of brown rice, oatcakes, porridge, beans and apples. Tomorrow: To avoid further bouts of diarrhoea and keep your gut healthy, a daily dose of natural yoghurt will boost the ‘friendly’ bacteria in your stomach. Prebiotic foods - such as garlic, onions and leeks - can also help.
Hot flushes
Today: Opt for cool, layered cotton clothing or nightwear; drink plenty of water; breathe deeply and slowly; and if possible, jump under a cold shower. If you’re suffering at night, it may also be worth popping your pillowcase in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes to cool you down when you rest your head on it. Tomorrow: Clinical hypnosis has proved very successful in the treatment of menopausal hot flushes, according to a recent study from Baylor University in the US. Researchers found that hypnotic relaxation therapy reduced flushes by as much as 80% over a fiveweek period.
Anxiety
Today: Stop fretting and picture the perfect outcome in your mind. Around 95% of what we feel is based on the thoughts that run through our minds, so if your thoughts are negative and based on failing, you’ll set yourself up to fail - and be miserable in the meantime. Remember, anxiety is simply another word for “fear”: it’s an anticipation of things going wrong and not being able to cope. Tomorrow: Conquer long-term anxiety by focusing on your goals. We all seek happiness; what will make you happy is the pursuit and realisation of a worthy goal or ideal, whatever it may be.
Hangover
Today: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and - if you can face it - rustle up some scrambled eggs for breakfast. Cysteine - the amino acid found in eggs - counteracts the toxic effects of acetaldehyde, the chemical produced by the body as it metabolises alcohol. Egg protein can also help us stay more awake and alert during the working day, according to recent research from Cambridge University. Tomorrow: We can’t tell you to stop drinking alcohol, but try avoiding dark-coloured alcoholic drinks as they contain natural chemicals - called congeners which irritate the blood vessels and brain tissue, so can make a hangover much worse. Also try alternating your alholic drinks with water or soft drinks, avoiding fizzy soft drinks as they speed up the absorption of alcohol!
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
19
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20
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Liz Steward Counselling and Therapy Services Individual Talking Therapy and Counselling Sessions
What are Talking Therapies?
Being able to share your thoughts and feelings that are having a negative effect on your life can, help you look at things in a different way. Talking to someone who is not connected to any of your worries or issues could help you explore, and explain, these thoughts and feelings in a way that you can understand. Speaking to a therapist who can recognise and see problems that you describe by talking about what is going on in your head, can help you see patterns that emerge when certain thoughts and feelings are explored. A therapist can help you work through negative thoughts and feelings help you understand where they come from and why you have them. Talking Therapies can help improve your self-image and confidence by helping you make positive changes through acting and thinking differently.
Why is there a stigma attached!
Many people feel that admitting you are seeing a therapist makes you a weak person! It takes a very strong person to admit that there is something wrong, it takes an even stronger person to do something about it. So, even when things seem at their lowest, you may feel that you have no control or power left, deciding to talk to someone independent is a start to reclaiming the control back into your life.
What are we dealing with?
It is very difficult to be helpful in all situations; I have decided to concentrate mainly on mental health issues. I support people with the following issues. If you take medication for any mental health disorder and have stopped taking your medication due to the new charges in the farmacias, please, contact me, we will try and find support for you. Do not suffer with any Mental Health Issues, there is help here.
Depression Low self-esteem Eating disorders Addiction to Alcohol Borderline Personality disorder Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder
Are you dependent on alcohol? Do you drink more than others? Are you living your life around your next drink? Would you like to change this? Sessions in talking therapies to put your disorders in order, come and see how together we can change the way you control the Mental Health Issue that is running your life, take control of your life and put your life back in order.
Individual sessions are for 1 hour, charged at 25€ per hour. First session is
FREE
Come and see how we could work together. Please contact on:
Liz Steward 633161555 liziesteward@hotmail.com
The Quesada Business Centre & Centro de Bienestar Hondon de los Frailes
dancing on ice Week 7
By Lyn Aspden of ‘Strictly Dance’ For Class Info & Venues 635 584 431
With just 3 weeks to go until the final, things are really hotting up as the challenges just keep getting tougher each week. This week saw the team challenge with team leaders Matt & Beth, chosen because they had the top average scores since week 1. With each of the 3 team winners to gain a double judges score, it was always going to be all guns blazing! Opening the show for the solo event were Keith & Olga skating to 20th Century Boy, with Keith portraying a rock star?!! As ever Keith gave a very entertaining performance as he is always totally committed and he is still improving every week although for me he is now struggling slightly to keep up with the others. I awarded him a 6.5 and the judges 25.0 and his best score to date. Next up were Luke & Jenna skating to Drive By. Again Luke is gaining in confidence and skills every week but for me is still lacking upper body and core posture which prevents him from presenting as well as he could. I gave him 6.5 and judges awarded 24.5 and again his best score to date. Following were Beth & Dan performing to That Man. This number had a charleston theme and Beth had been given some tips by a dance couple which really paid off in the quality of performance tonight. She gave a confident performance with great skating skills full of tricks. The judges awarded 30.5 and I gave her 8.0. Matt & Brianne then came out skating to A Change Has Gotta Come and I was delighted to say that Matt was back! He came out with a sultry, sexy simmeringly hot performance! His musicality and body shaping in this number were fantastic and you couldn’t tell who the pro skater was. I gave him 9.0 and he received a series top score of 35.5 from the judges. Gareth & Robyn followed with Turn Around. This was a technically difficult programme but I felt that Gareth struggled after a couple of slips on the ice and he was chasing the music from about half way through the routine. Not up to his usual standard, I gave him 7.0 and the judges 29.5. Closing this part of the
show were Samia & Sylvain skating to Barbie Girl which suited Samia to a T. This week she managed to perform some solo steps but still was happier with Sylvain (who wouldn’t be!) I gave her 6.5 and the judges 27.0. So after the first part of the show the standings were: 1st Matt & Brianne with 35.5 Position after Team Challenge 70.0 - 1st 2nd Beth & Dan with 30.5 Position after Team Challenge 30.5 - 4th 3rd Gareth & Robyn on 29.0 Position after Team Challenge 58.0 - 2nd 4th Samia & Sylvain on 27.0 Position after Team Challenge 27.0 - 5th 5th Keith & Olga with 25.0 Position after Team Challenge 25.0 - 6th 6th Luke & Jenna with 24.5 Position after Team Challenge 49.0 - 3rd Then came the team challenge and on Matt’s team Gareth & Luke dancing to You Can’t Touch This. Noting that Luke was by far the weakest team member I have to say that I didn’t notice it at all. It was a great team effort with some difficult choreography and tricks, good fun and full of energy. Next was Team Beth with Samia & Keith by far a much weaker skating team. However they performed to Gangnam Style which I’m sure you’ve all heard of! It was a really fun performance but I did keep seeing Keith as a weak link which marred it a little for me but enjoyable nevertheless. With a 3 to 1 judges score Team Matt won the challenge and therefore all skaters on his team got the judges score from the first half doubled which changed some of the positions as listed above. The judges bottom 2 were Keith & Samia and the public bottom 2 were the same. It was a great skate off and this was Keith’s 4th time in the bottom. I would have kept Keith in this week but with a vote of 3 to 1 Samia survived and Keith unfortunately had to leave. Next week is props week so anything can and does usually happen. Until next weeks exciting installment, enjoy and Keep Dancing!
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Preservativas
viewpoint
walking capabilities of a toddler on Christmas morning – a sequence of precarious stumbles interspersed There was no queue as I stepped into with inevitable crashes. the little Farmacia, just the usual air of While I vacillated in search of a friendly competence and a sprucely more original answer than ‘A little’ dressed gentleman sitting patiently he launched into an explanation of waiting. the item that his friend needed, but We communicated by smile and an which he didn’t feel up to ordering inclination of the head – an indication that I should go ahead to be served in a foreign chemist’s shop staffed exclusively by women. ‘He doesn’t first – I didn’t want to queue-barge. In no time the pretty young lady speak Spanish, you see.’ ‘It’s not for me’ he assured me, ‘it’s assistant had sorted my request, and after a short chat about the weather I for my friend, but he doesn’t know the word for it in Spanish.’ turned to leave. ‘Excuse me, do you speak Spanish?’ I racked my brain, riffling through enquired the sprucely dressed the mental filing system until right at gentleman as I neared the door. the back I found the word for which I That question was searching. Quickly, before it could always fills me with sink once more without trace into the trepidation. My primal ooze that is my brain, I told linguistic skill is about him. the same as the But that was only half a solution it still had to be asked for, and the same pretty young lady was still josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk hovering behind the counter, aware
By Jos Biggs
My Tackle is Gathering Dust! With one exception, I cannot remember the last time I slipped on my wellies; packed up my corned beef sandwiches and maggots and went off for a day’s fishing - although it was somewhere around the tail end of the 60’s. That one exception was fifteen years ago, when my eldest grandson expressed an interest in angling and using this as an excuse, I took him quickly off to the local tackle shop and purchased some basic gear. A good quality rod and fixed spool reel and all the other bits and pieces necessary to get him started. It helped that a farmer friend had offered us access to his private lake that was set well off the beaten track and screened by a thick cover of trees. He had given permission for the angling society from the local
Highpoint prison – composed of officers, not cons – to use this little oasis free of charge, on condition that they kept the undergrowth in check, maintained the banks and generally ensured that this picturesque spot was always left clean and tidy. It was a good arrangement for him because although he had no interest in the sport himself, he was happy in the knowledge that in order to keep him sweet, the prison officers club would make absolutely sure that this part of his land would be well looked after and moreover act as water bailiffs and evict anyone not authorised to fish. And because their society was a small one, there was never a danger of over fishing, with not even a solitary angler in evidence on most days – which was the case on the August day that my grandson and I arrived at the lake. We enjoyed our time in that tranquil setting and having caught some small tench, spotted several carp and some outsize golden orfe, it gave him the bug and he became a keen angler thereafter. For my part, I have not picked up a fishing rod since and my tackle resides in the garage gathering dust.
By Colin Bird : badbirdnow@gmail.com
that more trade was coming her way. Still spruce, but ever so slightly ruffled, the gentleman hesitated midway to the counter. I appreciated his dilemma, and in the spirit of Christian fellowship I offered to ask for it on his behalf. I may have a brass neck, but I like to think that I have a kind heart, and I hate to see a fellow human struggle. I stepped up to the counter and put in the request. The young lady arched a quizzical eyebrow at me. ‘For you?’ ‘No’ I replied. ‘For the gentleman over there.’ She glanced in his direction and the eyebrow continued its interrogation. ‘For his friend.’ I explained. ‘Ah, for his friend.’ She turned and homed in unerringly on the complete range, and with the practice borne of experience selected and handed me the object of desire, which I passed to its intended recipient. Mission accomplished, we parted, and went our various ways.
I have been mildly tempted once or twice since coming to Spain, but having been informed about the bureaucratic hoops that have to be jumped through in order to obtain a licence, I decided against it. That may or may not be true and if I was as keen as I once was of course, then I would not allow that to stand in my way. The fact is, my memories of the English river bank are the ones that I hold dear and I find everything else less inspiring. As a young angler, my mentor and greatest influence, was Bernard Venables who regarded himself as a naturalist first and foremost, with angling an important adjunct to that and through his writings and art, taught me to observe and love the wonderful world of nature in our countryside. I was fortunate to have the river Kennet on my doorstep and during the summer months, I would often be out of bed on a Sunday morning well before sun up and while the blackbirds were still snoring and having wormy dreams, I would make my way to the river with my own supply of the slimy little blighters – the small red variety being a particular favourite of the hungry early-morning tench. As the mist cleared and the sun began to show its face, it revealed the most glorious setting and was my favourite part of the day. With one eye on my stationary float, waiting
for that tell tale rise and dip before sliding away as a fish made a run for it with my bait, my other attentive eye would be scanning the far bank for signs of water voles. My cross eyes are not my best feature. These comical little rodents are an endangered species today, but back then were a common sight as they busily patrolled their territory scavenging for food. And as the sun climbed higher in the sky, the surrounding trees and meadows would burst into life – birds found their voices and competed for the avian equivalent of a GRAMMY, as legions of insects droned and buzzed into activity. Then, as if a gigantic artists brush had swept across the landscape, the countryside exploded into vibrant colour. I was lucky to have all of this in my back yard and when I wasn’t idling away those summer days there, I would be fishing from a boat on the achingly beautiful Blenheim Palace Lake or studying the waters of the Hampshire Avon or Dorset Stour, searching for signs of that elusive king barbel. Yes, fishing was much more to me than just catching fish and when describing the river bank, that greatest of all anglers Izaac Walton once wrote -“The quietest and fittest place for contemplation.”
21
alqueria - The space programme John MacDon ald
(El Sordo) - ww
w.caratacus .eu
A large wooden crate measuring some three metres by three metres arrived at Alqueria’s border with Spain. Addressed to Antonio Poyato and with a custom’s declaration stating ‘one pair of dress cufflinks, value £13.50’. The ‘From’ label read ‘East Anglian Aviation Museum, Suffolk, UK’. Since Poyato accidentally discovered the incredible burn rate of his Remitroot Liquor, losing his eyebrows in the process he had searched for an application. The idea of using it as rocket fuel occurred to him while at the Bar La Casa Devante and partially intoxicated. It’s amazing the inspiration one gets while in this state. The contents of the crate were spread over the floor of Poyato’s patio. A bewildering array of tubes, valves, piping and aerodynamic fins. The instructions however were in English. ‘Thank you for purchasing the Bristol Bloodhound anti-aircraft missile, correctly assembled it will bring hours of fun and pleasure’. Read Blythe Gruntmore as he thumbed through the manual. It was an old museum exhibit bought cheap by Poyato after the Museum closed. The British MOD had commandeered everything else that could fly to create the impression it was investing heavily in the country’s armed forces. Blythe Gruntmore worked solidly for three days and nights assembling the missile. Eating countless sausage sandwiches and unfortunately consuming gallons of Newcastle Brown Ale he worked on. His first attempt looked rather like a garden shed with wings. Poyato turned the assembly drawings the right way up, confiscated his Brown Ale and set him to work again. The completed missile pointed skyward at last, finished just as Gruntmore collapsed from exhaustion and Brown Ale withdrawal. It was a splendid contraption all tubes, guidance fins and nose cones. The whole village turned out to see it. Very few comprehended its use however, some thinking it was the new septic tank promised by the sanitary department. Poyato spent the next week pumping Remitroot Liquor into the missile’s boosters. A car battery and a light switch formed the basis of the ignition system. Manuela, being Minister of Culture prepared a scroll with a message addressed to ‘Whom it may concern’. This was placed in the nose cone. The actual message was known only to Manuela however. When launch day arrived and after the usual pompous speeches the count-down began. Rodriquez shouted the diminishing count aloud to all. Poyato who hated the obese Rodriquez launched the missile when the count was still at ‘5’. With a tremendous roar the Bloodhound took off covering the whole village with a cloud of Remitroot vapour. Highly intoxicating and as the only true aphrodisiac the population spent the next three days engaged in activities worthy of Tiberius himself. Where the Bloodhound went is a mystery as is Manuela’s message secured in the nose cone. The content of the message and of any alien response is perhaps something we shouldn’t ponder on for too long.
22
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
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THE SPAINIAC | Las Fallas | Candice Parsons
The sound of firecrackers ripping through the streets and the sight of various effigies burning brightly is only a mere insight to
how wild Spain’s parties are. Listed as one of the nation’s best festivals of the year, Las Fallas lasts four days long between
March 15th to March 19th within the city of Valencia. Filling up the streets of Valencia from early morning till late into the
night, both national and international voyeurs and party-goers gather for what is, in essence, a carnivalesque giant puppet show. The festival name derives from the Valencian word “falla”, which translates to fire. Therefore, Las Fallas, ‘The Fires’ or ‘The Torches’, conveys the main highlight of this festival – building and destoying the ‘ninots’. The giant and colourful puppets or sculptures that are created from either paper-mâché, styrofoam, wax, wood, or cardboard, can measure up to 30 metres high. Local Valencian’s of the different neighbourhoods in the city create these ninots, which often take the entire previous year to craft together and even cost up to US $75, 000. As they attract and entertain the crowds of visitors whilst parading around the different neighbourhoods of
Valencia, the ninots are usually crafted as satirically humorous and mocking of celebrities, politicians and distinctive media figures, depicting a whimsical and entertaining parody of the world. Alongside the ninots parading around the city, other street parties and activities, such as paellacooking competitions, bullfights, concerts and parades are available throughout the various barrios and plazas of Valencia. Locals take over and disperse around the city, flaunting traditional Valencian costumes amongst the culturally festive atmosphere. The grand finale of Las Fallas takes place exactly
at midnight on the last day of the festival (19th). Fireworks are lit whilst each of the fallas are blown up to create a large fiery explosion and burn them down into ash. For this reason, the festival is often compared to Guy Fawkes day in United Kingdom, which also traditionally involves lighting fires. Historically said to have originated in the late 15th century from pagan celebrations of the spring equinox, plus almost being banned by a number of governments during the 20th century due to the civil war; Las Fallas stands as a day in honour of Saint Joseph from Spain’s Catholic church roots.
Candice Parsons is a writer and avid Spain and Spanish culture lover from Melbourne, Australia. ‘Like’ my Facebook page: www.facebook. com/pandemicrhapsody and follow me on Twitter @MiLlamoCandi
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
Q: DO I NEED A SPANISH WILL
A:YES...and here’s why... 1. Your estate will be left to the people of your choice and not to those determined by law 2.You can mitigate inheritance tax by planning the distribution of your estate. A will can be the single most cost-effective document you will sign during your lifetime. 3. You will have the peace of mind of knowing that things are in order for your heirs and that your heirs will not end up dealing with a complicated and costly procedure in a foreign country. I like the challenge of complicated inheritance work but we will never stop insisting that all our clients should make a Spanish will. Since setting up office in 1993, I have been surprised by the amount of people who have come to ask whether it is convenient to make a will in Spain concerning their Spanish assets. The answer to this is most definitely yes. In England if you do not make a will, then the law has rules, which will determine the distribution of your assets. These rules could mean that your assets are distributed in a way very different from what you would have liked. In Spain the situation is the same, with an additional factor. Your heirs will have to deal with a foreign language and legal system. All the more reasons to leave everything as organised as possible. Some people include their Spanish assets in their English will. This is legally binding, but to obtain probate in Spain, it will be necessary for the will to be translated and legalised. This is a long and costly procedure. My advice on the subject is to have two separate wills, one in England for your English assets and one in Spain for your Spanish assets. Drawing up a will in Spain does not take long and is not expensive, and will definitely save your heirs a lot of time, problems and money. Your Lawyer will draw up a rough draft, and then he will make an appointment at the notary to sign the final document. One copy is sent by the notary to the central register in Madrid. He will hold on to the original copy. You will be given a copy that I suggest you inform your heirs and lawyer in England about, and then put it in the bottom drawer, with the peace of mind of knowing that everything is taken care of. At Davies Solicitors we will listen to your wishes and advise you on the most tax efficient way of dealing with your Spanish estate. We will explain in detail the tax implications of your decisions for your heirs and ways to deal with it.We will prepare a will in both English and Spanish for signature and in general we will provide you the peace of mind of knowing that everything has been left organized for your heirs. Please call or email us for an appointment 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 FEBRUARY2013
Di de Di Holiday Fun
Come and enjoy an evening with the staff and campers at Craplin’s Holiday Camp. The year is 1959 and the aging staff are now catering to the older camper. All the activities have been designed to enable the campers to fully enjoy The Pensioner Specials, but the guest have mixed reactions. The staff group still consists of hopeful Bluecoats and jaded entertainers. Partridge is getting more grumpy and bad tempered with age, the dancers continue to snipe at each other and Ted still needs Spike to bail him out of his self inflicted difficulties. Peggy may be getting on in years, but she still hopes to get her promotion before she receives her Old Age Pension. However, the Craplin Debonaires provide excellent nightly entertainment in the Hawaiian Ballroom. Come and enjoy a fun filled night of staff and camper antics and enjoy the cabaret shows by the splendid Craplin Debonaires. To be performed at the Casa de Cultura San Miguel on Friday 15th, Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th March. Tickets can be purchased at Bargain Books, San Miguel, The Panderia Campoverde Tuesday and Thursday mornings, Portobello Sunday 1pm - 3pm or phone Colin on 96 677 4127.
Maria Wilson and The Pink Ladies
Maria Wilson and The Pink Ladies held their third St. Valentine’s Ball a day earlier than 14th February, but still managed to attract 172 people to the party, making it the most successful yet. The event took place at Las Ramblas Golf Club and the evening raised over €1900 for AECC, mainly to be used for its cancerscreening programme.
Entertainment for the evening was provided by Dan Davy, “Neil Diamond” AKA Geoff Watts and table magician Grahame Mykal, who manages to baffle people with his tricks just inches away from their eyes. The raffle was a great success, raising over €1000 on the evening, amazing generosity from both ticket buyers and also the local businesses and individuals that provided the great prizes. Maria wishes to thank everyone concerned with
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the fund-raising event, The Pink Ladies; the entertainers previously mentioned; the raffle-prize donors Euronics - El Galan, Treasure Chest, Hugh Graham, Ann Bissett, Sophia Wellness Centre, Zest Hair & Beauty - Citrus Centre, Rannis Indian Restaurant, Spain Property Shop, Suzi4Fitz, Adam Dumbreck, Medaesthetics - Punta Prima, La Zenia Boulevard, Sheila Chinnock, La Zenia Boulevard, Square Restaurant - Villamartin, Evolution - La Fuente and Viajes - Playa Flamenca and all those that attended and made the event so successful.
24
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Algorfa has the perfect mix of rural beauty and city convenience near to hand, all in an all-year-round sunny climate and you may be surprised by the number of English-speaking businesses in the town.
La Vista Deli Cafe Bar The Deli with a Difference!! Fresh foods & drinks served daily
Great Prices! Great Service! Friendly Atmosphere! FREE WiFi, TV & Kids corner, disabled facilities FREE Parking, FREE Entertainment, Buffet nights and much much more...............
Saturday 23rd February 2013
Party Night / entertainment / Karaoke Free Buffet & Nibbles Eat, Drink and be Merry
L/C9 La Finca Golf, Algorfa, 03169
www.lavistalafinca.com
Telf: 634 331 098
Although archeologists have found artifacts and human remains around Algorfa that date back to the early Iberian times of Spain, but they have been unable to prove that there has ever been a village in the area before the 14th century. In 1328 Algorfa was first seen as a settlement within the Valencian Kingdom. The then king, Alfonso the second, gave the village autonomous status. This privilege was reliant on the building of 15 farms whose owners had to ensure the inhabitation of these by at least 15 families. In 1714, after the wars for succession, the government changed and Algorfa’s privilege was revoked by Felipe the Fifth, and it became a part of the new Spanish Kingdom. However, it was given its own parish in 1755, and in 1790 it was re-instated as autonomous by Carlos the Fourth, after intervention by the Marquesse. Since the 14th century it has primarily been an agricultural village. The first settlers took advantage of the rich fertile land close to Segura and soon developed their small simple farms to large fields that provided a variety of harvests, and the cultivation of citrus fruits on the plains near the Segura River gave it important agricultural status. At present, the municipality of Algorfa is divided into two parts, half of which falls in the Almoradi area while the other half remains in Algorfa. It still maintains the Spanish culture and traditions, due to its small size, agriculture, warm hearted people and beautiful picturesque setting – lying on the banks on the River Segura, amongst lush and fertile countryside with a beautiful mountainous backdrop and wonderful panoramic views to the coast. Yet it is less than one hour’s drive from Alicante Airport!
ichheess SSaannddwwic & s o it & d s a t o n it o d a M t , n s o BBooccaaddilillolos, M AVAILABLE FULL MENU ALSO
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www.tabernaalgorfa.co.uk C/Practicante Alberto, Berenguer No.1 (Algorfa Main Square) 966 729 620
We have a great variety of Wines and Liquors Wines sold in bulk from Jumilla Nuts, Items for Wine and much much more....... Time: Mon-Fri 9-14h and 17-21h Saturday from 10-14h and 17-20h Sunday from 11-14h
Ctra. Almoradi - Los Montesinos 34 Algorfa 03169 Tel: 687 16 89 93 Bodega-Algorfa
The area is relaxed and friendly with a typi Spanish way of life, yet the modern convenie at hand - blue flag beaches at Santa Pola and nature reserves or La Pedrera, a recreation mountain bike and walking trails, barbecue an areas. Just outside the village is an unusual neo-got from the beginning of the nineteenth century, Day is Sunday. And don’t forget La Finca Golf - as well as if you turn uphill at the main junction in Algorf the top of the hill La Finca Golf Course, Hotel, Commercial Centre with additional English spe
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Algorfa
25
CAFE
El Badulake
ically laid-back ences are all d Torrevieja, n area with nd camping
thic church and Market
the town itself fa you will find at Urbanisation and a eaking businesses.
Tel: 659 565 485
el chirin guit Traditional spanish open air cafe/bar between football pitch and swimming pool SPORTS PARK Juan Carlos I, Algorfa
Photos by www.andywilson photographer.com
Mark’s Pla ce FISH & CHIPS
Open daily from noon
CLASSIC MEAL DEAL Prime Cod, Chips & Mushy Peas, Bread & Butter
6.50€
La Finca Golf, Algorfa Phone Pre-Orders - 966 849 706
Where do you eat yours? Join in the fun - send us pictures of where you’re eating your takeaway
Spanish Tapas Televised Sport everyday on main Square, Plaza Espana, 26 03169 ALGORFA, (Alicante)
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
HOME & GARDEN...
CAMPO LIFE WITH JENNI.......
Britannia
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Caught between years of political wrangling, lack of electricity and no way of discharging the waste water into the sea, here we sit, with an award-winning €300m, the largest European desalination plant in Torrevieja - lying idle! For how much longer, who knows? Always in the news, mostly for the wrong reasons both locally and worldwide, no one has a clear picture of when it will come on line. Headlines such as “Spain’s desalination dreams run dry” and ¨EU waste: Massive Spanish desalination plant lies idle¨ are just a few examples of how the world’s media view the ambitious project. Every now and then, you will get a status update, the most recent announcement being, that they would soon be testing the plant. Apparently it took place, last month in January. As with most things in Spain you do not know what to believe, but sooner or later it will be commissioned. This matter is of interest to me because the desalination water will pumped into the Embalse de la Pedrera, the reservoir that we border and overlook here at Casa la Pedrera to the tune of 80 hectometres of water annually and a daily output of 240,000 cubic metres, however the pipeline from the desalination plant to the reservoir was completed years ago and lies high and dry. When it was first announced in 2006 by the state owned water company Acumad, that the desalination plant would take just “ 23 months to be completed” mmmm slightly over schedule one would think! Well even if it does not work - yet - at least it is beautiful to look at, according to Engineers and officials. “It is a modern wonder” and a “marvellous plant” in the words of one construction manager, In 2007 it won a silver prize in the Global Water Intelligence for the “ Best Desalination Project of the year” and just recently, in November 2012 it was selected as one of the top one hundred of the “most innovative infrastructures in the world”. Much that has been written out this plant as I pointed out has been negative and that is because of the huge amount of money spent and of course the delays and the political battles, ie. the initial refusal of the opposition-run Valencian regional government to issue environmental permits, but even the government’s fiercest critics could not deny that the last seven years of Socialist administration in Spain, which ended in November, have revolutionised the country’s water supply situation. The former secretary of state for agriculture and water Josep Puxeu, claimed that “Spain’s historical water scarcity problem is no longer a problem for citizens, despite Spain’s dry climate,” He went on further to say, Sustained investment in desalination, in improved wastewater treatment quality and modernised irrigation techniques, have worked in parallel to end the water deficit which was causing “over-exploitation of aquifers, inefficient use and an inability to plan for medium and longterm economic development in the Mediterranean region”. This improved water supply has had a positive impact on Spain’s on Spain’s important horticultural industry and on the Spanish economy as
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a whole, especially in light of the credit crisis. Over a million hectares of farmland have modernised irrigation systems, fruit and vegetables to a value of €18 billion have been exported so far this year – accounting for almost 15% of total exports – and national cereal yields have quadrupled to 22 million tonnes per year. Another economic sector which felt the positive impact of generous public sector investment in water infrastructure is the Spanish desalination and wastewater reuse industry. Companies such as Acciona Agua, Sadyt and Befesa have benefitted from the multi-million € contracts and the technological demands of such programmes have resulted in that these companies are now leading the field at a global level in osmosis membrane desalination, and because of this and have secured new markets and projects in Australia, North Africa and India. Closer to home, Accoina have recently completed a project in Beckton, England which also won the Global Water Intelligence’s award for the most sustainable project. So it seems that not only is the technology to Spain´s benefit but to the UK as well. The Beckton Desalination Plant is the first on the river Thames to use the reverse osmosis technology and it is expected to deliver more than 150 millions of litres of potable water to more than 900 thousand of people. Whether the UK needs it or not with all the rain that it has had in the past year is another story. Perhaps those dreaded ¨Hose Pipe bans¨ may now become a thing of the past! Don´t forget our charity Lake challenge on March the 3rd and even if you can´t walk or cycle we have a fantastic line up of live musical entertainment on offer so you can simply enjoy the views with some refreshments from the bbq or perhaps even a cream tea on the Sunday afternoon. We are also open daily throughout the half term break for all our activities. Until next week then.... Jenni
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Tea Garden & Crafts are open daily from 11am – 4pm Actvities: Quad biking, Horse & Pony Rides, Canoeing, Fishing, Air Rifle & Archery. Events : Annual Lake Charity Challenge, Walk or cycle Sunday 3 March www.thingstodoinspain.info or 660 816 620 Jenni
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Vice President of the European Commission (EC) and head of Economic Affairs, Olli Rehn, said this week that Spain “must maintain the momentum” of the reforms undertaken in the economy in order to achieve stability and growth. In a press conference at the end of the Eurogroup meeting in Brussels, when asked about his opinion on the cases of corruption that have tainted Spanish politics, Rehn stated: “We are following the economic and political developments in Spain.” “I want to emphasise that there has been important progress made (in Spain) to calm the financial turmoil, thanks to decisions made with regard to fiscal consolidation and after the recent decisions of the European Central Bank (ECB) to purchase bonds in the secondary market,” said Rehn, in relation to the so-called direct monetary
transactions (OMT).
According to Diario Sur, the Spanish Economy Minister, Luis de Guindos, said on his arrival at the Eurogroup, that Spain “is a country where institutions function with a transparency which is unmatched.” The Spanish minister made this statement in response to questions about the alleged behaviour
De Guindos said, “at a time like this, the exemplary nature of all institutions is vital” and indicated that the Government “will remove all negative behaviours from a fiscal and employment point of view” and reiterated that “in Spain the law works and applies”. FOR ALL THE LATEST PROPERTY NEWS GO TO: WWW.KYERO.COM
We urgently require properties for sale or rent, Orihuela Costa & surrounding areas for waiting clients Please contact
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Spain Must Maintain Momentum of Reforms, Says Rehn
of the Vice President of the CEOE, Arturo Fernandez, who is accused of paying salaries in black money to employees of their companies.
27
Suicide Junction We are HERE
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Sol Insure A New Ray Of Light For Insurance
Looking Around for Insurance or Renewal Due?
LATEST SPANISH MORTGAGE REFORM WILL HAVE POSITIVE OUTCOME FOR HOME-OWNERS The last battery of mortgage law reforms in Spain will have a limited effect on guarantees for bond issues. This is according to the rating agency, Fitch, who says that the 30-year restriction on mortgages will only apply to new loans and, in the long run, will mean “better and more robust” cover. The agency stated: “After our discussions with the Ministry of Economy, we believe that this rule will only apply to new mortgages granted, so existing mortgages with maturities longer than 30 years will not be excluded from the eligible loans and thus banks will not be forced to buy back bonds to comply with legal constraints”. Fitch recognises, however, that the new measures introduced by the Government slightly weakens the creditor protection through the universal personal liability of the debtor, but believes that the number of mortgages that would be eligible to benefit from this relaxation of the rules “is small”, and therefore should have a limited effect on the banks. El Mundo reported that the agency considers that the impact of the new measures on the desire to return mortgage loans will be limited because the economic incentives to non-payment of housing are lower than the charges the unpaid debt and the need to find alternative housing would represent. “The disincentive to default on mortgages is strong in the first home, so it will be important to see whether the new laws and procedures will apply only to primary residences or to all mortgage loans,” the agency added. (www.kyero.com)
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s p i t g n i garden
29
...HOME & GARDEN
n1 Questio nts be Should my pla covered if it gets icy?
Installation & Maintenance
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The Mosquito Screen & Window Co Serving the Coast and Inland for over 10 Years
Answer 1
Question 2
If there is a danger of frost it is always advisable to protect any sensitive plants. Keep an eye on the local weather forecast and also listen to your instincts and if you think it may be a very cold night, cover as much as you can. Try a variety of items,for example, horticultural fleece, old net curtains and also newspaper - anything to keep that frost off. It is not advisable to leave this covering on the next day. Sometimes damp will accumulate underneath it and if the air cannot circulate properly around the plant it can rot.
I have heard that I ne ed a licence to have a bonfire. Surel y that isn’t correct if it is in my ow n garden?
Manufacturers & Installers of Insect Screens, Aluminium & UPVC Windows & Doors Tel: 966 716 329 or Spanish Mob: 722 763 055
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We have just taken delivery of quality English duvet sets and sheets which will brighten up your bedroom and see you through the cold nights. Based at the Moncayo Market every Saturday in cabin 222. Home Comfort Spain offer quality rugs, towels and homewares at affordable prices. Come along and see us between 09.00-14.00 in the retail village at Moncayo Market. Delivery service available upon request Also can be seen at Da Vincis Bistro at Lakeside, La Siesta, Torrevieja on a Tuesday morning from 11.00- 15.00. Visit our website at www.homecomfortspain.com or telephone Ian on 617 659 282.
fastcat
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Answer 1
Yes it is! It is hard to believe, when you see all the burning rubbish on the building sites and when the Spanish burn the prunings of their olive and almond trees. Recently I had to burn a lot of rubbish and went up to the Ayuntamiento to ask what the procedure was. The Secretary didn’t know - an indication of how often he is asked! He had to telephone the next village to find out! I faxed the completed application form through to the Junta De Almeria and they should have responded to let me know if the time requested was ok. I heard no more until the proposed morning of my fire, when the Vigilantes de Almeria called round to tell me where on my land to site the fire and how long it could burn before I had to douse it with water..... The concern with regard to fire is very understandable in this dry climate and it is pretty terrifying to see how rapidly a fire can get out of hand and spread. There is a hefty fine for an unauthorised fire especially between May and October, but for all that I doubt the Old Fellas around here bother with any licence!
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31
Easy Entertaining Quesada Fish and Chips
email your favourite recipes to editor@soltimes.com
kiwis make your skin glow
Is it possible to glow with health? If new research is to be believed, the answer is yes! Eating at least three portions persuade people to eat the of fruit and vegetables daily – recommended five portions of including carrots, cabbages and fruit and veg a day could use kiwi fruit – gives skin a ‘healthy’ the findings to promote the radiance akin to a tan after just idea that such products are not a few weeks, according to the only healthy, but make you more study. attractive. According to a report by Mail ‘Advertising the results of our Online (www.dailymail.co.uk), work could be persuasive in psychologists from the University motivating individuals to eschew of St Andrews analysed the the dangers of excess ultraviolet impact fruit and vegetable exposure in favour of improving consumption had on perception diet, which we show to be a of skin colour. more effective way of improving appearance,’ says Dr Ross Pictures were taken of men and women to analyse their skin tone Whitehead, who led the study. before and after the test period. ‘We found that skin colour Researchers found that associated with fruit and increased fruit and vegetable vegetable consumption consumption led to a deepening influences apparent health to a of natural red and yellow skin greater extent a tan.’ colouration. Carotenoids – the nutrients They calculated that 2.9 responsible for the colours in portions of fruit and veg a day foods, including carrots and over a six-week period are sweet potatoes – are thought to enough to make people look be responsible for the effects. more healthy, while 3.3 portions Carotenoids are also present in will boost attractiveness. all layers of human skin. In a second project, participants There are several hundred were asked to ‘judge’ the carotenoids, but beta-carotene pictures to rate how attractive and lycopene are among the the faces were. Those with the most studied and are associated ‘healthy glow’ were deemed with a number of health most desirable. benefits. Carotenoids in retinas, Campaigners struggling to for example, protect the eyes.
9 Item English Breakfast
3.70€
Served 9.30 till 5pm (Sunday till 12)
Traditional Homemade English Food here in Spain
Whether visiting Spain or a permanent resident you do not have to miss out on your favourite tastes from home. At Quesada Fish and Chips they have been serving Cod and Chips for over 5 years to countless customers, and due to its continued success have opened another restaurant in Villamartin Plaza for customers on the Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. The popular menu of the day includes Cod or Haddock, chips, peas, bread and butter costing €6.50 available from 12-5pm. Also at the original
North Staffordshire Oat Cakes are in Spain Visit Bill & Rita at Los Alcazares Market - Monday La Marina Market - Thursday Moncayo Market - Saturday El Zocco Market - Sunday
Tel: 676 527 348 Email billsinspain@hotmail.com
Manhattan
Quality HomeFood Restaurant
Choice of “The best kept secret in Cabo Roig” 25 MAIN COURSES Hidden Within La Rotonda Aparthotel Cabo Roig Choice of DESSERTS
20
Real Hand Cut Chips Delicious Homemade Pies Mouthwatering Steaks Fabulous Homemade Desserts Finest Teas & Coffee Homemade meals from €4.50
Perfect for a relaxing lunch shopping at
after
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Special Menu
€15.99 Serving from 9.30am to 9.30pm Mon - Sat Sunday 9.30am to 7.30pm
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Available till 9pm
Always fresh, always exciting, always incredible value!
Truly Fabulous Homemade food at pocket Friendly prices
y Zenia Boulevard 5 mins awa
We Are HERE
Quesada restaurant fish, chips and peas is served all day for only €5.50. In addition to the freshly battered and cooked fish and chips there is a wide and varied menu available to suit all tastes. The restaurant in Quesada is easy to find on Calle Los Arcos, just before the arches and is open seven days a week. Tel: 966 719 136. The restaurant in Villamartin is at the Villamartin Plaza open Monday to Saturday. Tel: 966 764 441.
www.manhattancaboroig.com
per person
Valentines Night
Thursday 14th February 2013 Sizzling Garlic Prawns Chilli and Cheese Nachos Fine Herb Pate Homemade Soup
Chicken and Bacon Carbonara Roast Duck Breast in Orange sauce FreshSalmon Fillet Rib Eye Steak
Medley of miniature homemade desserts Carafe of house wine per couple
Tel: 966 111 605
3 course HOMEMADE Menu del Dia €7.95 served 12 till 9pm
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Easy Entertaining For anyone trying to stick to a diet, carbohydrates are usually the enemy. But one type of rice is flying off the shelves, because it has virtually no calories. Slim Rice, a new British product, helps you feel full while barely registering on your waistline. There are 7.7 calories in a 100g serving, compared to 350 calories in the
NEW
same weight of white basmati rice. Regular boiled rice contains 64 per cent water. Slim Rice, which comes already cooked, is made up of 97 per cent water and the Asian root konjac. Some nutritionists claim that vegetable extract konjac – also known as Moyu – can stabilise blood-sugar levels and
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the ultimate diet carb! prevent hunger pangs and over-eating. The unusual product smells strongly of starch and needs to be rinsed at least twice under warm water to remove its distinctive odour. Advocates claim the rice, which is chewier than normal varieties, tricks your brain into thinking you have eaten a full meal. One portion can create
the sensation of being full for up to four hours. The Slim range – which includes Slim Pasta and Slim Noodles – is flavourless, allowing you to add a sauce of your choice. Made by company Eat Water, it is available from Holland & Barrett and independent food stores and costs £2.55 a packet. However, Tam Fry, from the National Obesity
CARVERY The inn at the green every sunday includes a glass of wine, small beer or water
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3 courses including glass of wine, beer or water. This weeks menu - Soup, Fish ‘n’ Chips, Ice-Cream
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Forum, said: ‘There are nasty side effects to konjac. It will make you feel fuller but doesn’t do much for you. ‘Konjac is an appetite suppressant and people will eat it thinking they will get slim but might not be aware they could be starving themselves of nutrients. ‘You don’t want to starve your body of things that it needs.’
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email your favourite recipes to editor@soltimes.com
Spring Green Vegetables With Soft- Cooked Eggs
33
...FOOD & ENTERTAINING main
Seared Spiced Tuna with Courget te
tER r a st INGREDIENTS For the vegetables: 1 vanilla pod, scraped out 2 cups snap peas, or sugar peas 16 green asparagus 4 leeks, white part only 2 tbsp sherry vinegar 6 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint Salt Crushed red peppercorns For the eggs: 4 extra fresh eggs
METHOD Steam the vegetables for 5 minutes and rinse them under cold water; set aside. In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar with the oil. Add the vanilla seeds, mint, salt and red peppercorns. Serve on top of the warm vegetables. Boil water in a pot with the white wine vinegar and a pinch of salt. When the water is boiling, drop the eggs carefully in the water. Cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and tap them with a knife, holding each in one hand. Remove the shell carefully. Serve on top of the vegetables and sprinkle with red peppercorns. Serve with crusty bread on the side.
1 tbsp white wine vinegar Salt
DESSER
T
INGREDIENTS For the fish and vegetables 4 small fresh tuna steaks 2 courgettes Salt and pepper 1 tsp fresh chopped coriander 2 tbsp olive oil 1 small fresh beetroot 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp hazelnut oil A few sprigs of fresh dill A dash of lemon juice (optional) For the coating of the fish 1 tsp fennel seeds 1 tsp pink peppercorn seeds 1 tsp coriander seeds 1/3 tsp black peppercorns
METHOD Take a mortar and crush all the spices seeds together. Wash the courgettes. Cook one courgette cut in pieces in boiling water for 10 mIns or so. Mix it well with a hand processor (30sec is enough). Chop in small cubes the other courgette. Add salt and pepper, the mixed courgette, and the fresh chopped coriander. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil and set aside. Take your tuna steaks & press gently in the crushed seeds. Take a large frying pan and heat one tbsp olive oil. Sear on each side for about 30 seconds or less. Make sure the tuna flesh stays rosĂŠ-coloured. Grate your peeled beetroot. Add salt and pepper. Mix together the balsamic vinegar with the hazelnut oil. Mix with the beetroot and set aside. Take a plate and in the middle, place a small portion of the courgettes (the size of your tuna steaks) in the middle. Place the tuna steak on top and finish with some grated beetroot salad. Sprinkle with a few dill sprigs. Sprinkle over a few more drops of olive oil and serve without waiting, with a dash of lemon juice.
iNGREDIENTS 4 small pears, peeled, halved and cored, drizzled with lime juice 3 tablespoons white cane sugar 1/2 vanilla bean, split open and seeds scraped out 1 inch ginger root, peeled and finely grated 1 inch lemongrass stick, finely grated 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 to 3 tablespoons coconut milk
Baked Pears With Lemongr ass, Ginger & Vanilla
1 tablespoon lime juice Chopped unsalted green pistachios, to serve
send your recipes to editor@soltimes.com
Method Preheat the oven to 350F/180C/GAS4. In a small bowl, combine the ginger, lemongrass, vanilla seeds and sugar; set aside. In a pot, melt the butter and add the sugar mixture and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sugar is dissolved. Add the lime juice. Place the pears, face up, inside a dish and pour the sauce over. Add the vanilla bean and bake for 40 minutes, or until the pears are tender. Serve with the sauce, chopped pistachios and plain Greek yogurt on the side.
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
STANDARD CROSSWORD
22 Dribble (4) 23 Sandy or gritty (8) 27 Gimmicks or illusions (6) 28 A moderately quick tempo (musical term) (10) 29 Ringlet (4)
Down 1 Add up ICI accounts - initially new for one who 7ac, perhaps (8) 2 Good man, a help turning up for arenas (6) 3 Living thing’s body part is minute (8) 4 Sounds negative, is the opposite (not initially) (6) 6 Clear space which makes it easy to see? (8)
HARD SUDOKU
Very Hard!
SUDOKU PUZZLE CRYPTIC crossword
CROSSWORD
SOLUTIONS 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.
Down 1 State of revolt (10) 2 Contrary (8) 3 Make more humid (10) 4 Appendage (4)
5 Grain storage building (4) 6 A short coat (6) 7 Floating mass of ice (4) 14 Bore (5) 15 Salvation (10) 16 Ones who are overly critical (10) 19 Unearthly (8) 21 Avoided (6) 24 Friend (4) 25 Monster (4) 26 Stiff hair or bristle (4)
CRYPTIC
Across 8 Trim (4) 9 Came into existence (10) 10 Members of a jury (6) 11 Occlusion (8) 12 Tangelo (4) 13 Comprehend (10) 17 At one time (4) 18 A poem by Homer (5) 19 Prefix indicating outer (4) 20 Part of the brain (10)
7 Allow hesitation (minute) in hole in the earth (6) 8 Parents keep quiet when before The Word (4) 12 Declare cat-girl first (8) 14 Watches second entrances (8) 16 Time particle following - not a system of symbols (8) 17 Second-level small card game (6) 18 Taxis taking in huts (6) 19 One who suffers two boys (6) 20 Aim to leave everyone heartless (4)
CROSSWORD
coffee break
Across 5 Alter commercial fair (6) 7 Acts for inside hair-waves (8) 9 Cyril and Ned creating solid shape (8) 10 Take on animal before another one returns (6) 11 Surprisingly, militias rise where things are alike (12) 13 Scale one’s calls (6) 15 Excavation in... in... in... 1000 grams (6) 18 Preserving 100 renovations, perhaps (12) 21 Criminal, or returning books with hesitation (6) 22 Thrilling England with 90 not out, without one-time great opener (8) 23 Covers left a new king in stakes (8) 24 Pressed on into dire trouble (6)
STANDARD SUDOKU
34
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35
Valentines Day Out Jukebox Promotions Patrons of Help at Home (Costa Blanca)
Nashville Connections - 5 show tour in March 2013 (A unique show that’s a must for all Country fans)
This tour will give Country fans a taste of how Nashville affected the Country music market years ago and in more recent times. Some of the great music associated with Nashville and the singers that found fame from it. Many songs that are known by everyone and others that will be great to get in that “Country mood” with. The tour stars Ricky Valance who, after many years as a 60s star moved into the Country music world and had some great hits Internationally (including on the US Country scene via Nashville) as recently as 2001 with the song “Mother Loves another man”. In the year 2000, he had a new song called “Ain’t it good to have somebody” at No 16 in the European Country charts. Ricky’s Country music has been so strong now for many years and he has recorded many tracks including some great covers like “He’ll have to go”, “Oh Lonesome me” and “Heartaches by the number”. All will be included on the tour along with “Tell Laura” of course! This tour also feature the fabulous Fiona McLean and she will sing the classics of the female Country scene including Dolly, Tammy, Billy Jo, Shania, Crystal and many more. Half of Jukebox Legends (runner up in “Most Original act” category of 2012 Music Awards - Costa Blanca), Fiona is one of the top female artists and one of the most versatile in range and style you will ever see.
Valentines day out for the Freewheelers was a step back to their childhood days when they visited the Centro de Cultura Tradicional Museo Escola de Pusol, The Centre for Traditional Culture School Museum founded in 1969 as a school of the environment to study the crafts and traditions of the Elche Compo. Leaving La Marina Playa for the short drive to the outskirts of Elche we were greeted by shouts from a man 20 foot up a palm tree he was trimming. A quick brief by the lady in charge before the first part of the tour, A series of alcoves depicting the various room in a small country dwelling complete with household items commonly in use at that period. In front of each room stood three pupils from the school who explained the rooms and the items in them. After thanking
the children who did a sterling job we moved onto the outdoor life and the type of farming of the times and the implements used, also a combined blacksmith and carpenters workshop for building farm horse drawn carts. Round the corner into the shopping area and the display of what was on the shelves almost a century ago. Even the barbers shop is there. Oft was heard the phrase “I remember them” or “We had one of those”. I remember during my last year at school going to a printers that were using similar type set and blocks to the ones on display. If you have never been it really is a worthwhile nostalgic visit. On to Faulty Towers and another good value lunch washed down with ample wine and so ended another excellent day out enjoyed by all. Thank you Richard, where next?
Also on the bill is the winner of the “Best Tribute” 2012 - Music Awards in Costa Blanca, Elvis 2000. Elvis fans will know that he had many big hits Internationally on main stream and Country circuits revolving around his love and passion for Country music. Elvis 2000 will perform some of those great hits in a style and manner that is so similar to Elvis that it will amaze you. *********************************************************
GREAT NEW VENUE FOR THIS TOUR
The Club House, Camposol Golf - 968 978 855 Fund raising at the venue for MABS (All details of this months tour below) ********************************************************* Tickets for the shows on this tour are only 8.50€ and available at the venues listed now. Please book early and in advance as seating is allocated at the time. Shows start at 8.30pm Pre show meals (at 7-00pm) are available from some venues (please ask when booking). Seating for all shows is from 8.00pm to 8.25pm. The dates and venues are: Friday 1st March - Casa de Cultura Theatre, La Romana 634 349 578 (tickets available at Tienda de Amigos charity shop - next to Village Inn) * AMIGOS / RBL Saturday 2nd March - Restaurante San Miguel Cooperativa
Murla, Murla, Jalon Valley - 633 076 588 * RBL Sunday 3rd March - The Rendezvous, Campoamor (nr La
Fuente Centre) - 608 467 597 (Tickets for this show are 10€ and include a great buffet) Monday 4th March - La Marina Sport Complex - 966796389 Tuesday 5th March - The Club House, Camposol Golf -
968 978 855 *MABS *********************************************************
Coming soon :
Broadway & Hollywood with Andy Jones “Mr Voice” and Fiona McLean A fabulous new 2013 production touring 13th to 20th March. See www.jukeboxpromotions.co.uk for details and venues etc
36
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
space for a little one?
Thrown over the Cattery fence in a box, Fred is a beautiful young tabby cat, but he is a very timid boy and is bullied a lot by many of the other cats in the Cattery. Offered a home on his own, we are sure he would come out of his shell and be a delightful companion. Malik is a 2 year old Doberman X whose mother Izzie was pregnant with 13 puppies when she was rescued. Malik is a lovely natured medium sized dog who would make a great family dog.
Dear Editor
I have read in the Expat press that the amended No Smoking laws are being ignored by many, and Murcia is one of the worst states, where smoking has actually increased! This is true. Smoking is banned in hospitals including the grounds; I have come back from an appointment at the new Santa Lucia hospital, Cartagena, where yet again a blind eye is turned to this problem, the worst area being outside the cafeteria. Last year I wrote to the chief executive and suggested that: The No Smoking notices should be larger and displayed more prominently The security guard should warn offenders, who, if they persist should be fined Warning messages should be displayed on the screens in the outpatients’ waiting area, where all kinds of other health advice is repeatedly displayed.
Please call Yvonne on 630 422 563 or Natasha on 616 210 850 if you want to meet any of APAH’s dogs or cats.
Result - no action whatsoever!
Please visit our website www.apahrescue.org under urgent appeals to see our other dogs and cats in need of finding a foster home.
Speaking to someone smoking in a polite way, pointing to the No Smoking notice usually brings forth a selection of interesting Spanish expletives. I received a polite letter stating that they were committed to a healthy non smoking hospital, reminded me that smoking is entrenched in the Spanish culture and to alter the situation would take some time; I agree it will be difficult but no action is being taken at all. Having been a nurse, I am the first to admit that a hospital is a very stressful place both for staff and patients, but that is no reason to turn a blind eye and ignore the law. If I were a surgeon, I would be loathed to offer surgery to a patient who is going to smoke and undo all my good work, at the taxpayer’s expense. Yes, before anyone pipes up that the government gets lots of tax from smokers, I will remind them that caring for people with smoking related conditions costs twice as much as the tax gathered from smokers. Next time I visited the hospital, nothing had changed so I filled in a complaints form and received a similar reply to the first letter. Today I went for an appointment, and was hopeful of an improvement - instead I saw a cleaner sweeping cigarette butts into an overfull dustpan! When I indicated my disgust, she smiled sweetly, With the present austerity, people seem to have no trouble finding money for cigarettes, which one might think would be better spent on food and other life essentials for the family. Begging outside supermarkets, puffing away, will not bring forth loose change from me. It may be their only pleasure, but surely not at the expense of needy children? The only way the law will prevail will be if offenders are hit where it hurts- in the pocket. It will set an example. The other offenders who need a short sharp shock are these bar and cafe owners who put up awnings, closed in on all three sides; this creates an enclosed space in which smoking is banned; it defeats the object, smoke then issues forth into the main building. People then have a smoke filled area through which they must walk to get out, and staff have no option but to endure working in it. The idea of the awnings/ canopies was to have two sides exposed, creating shelter, but also allowing fresh air to blow through. Since so many are flouting this law I can only assume the Police are also turning a tolerant, blind eye. The new laws were a big improvement on the previous ones but if not enforced, are powerless. We can’t choose to ignore laws that don’t suit us-they were put in place for the health and comfort of all!
Ellen Rose
SEND your birthdays, events and announcements TO: EDITOR@ SOLTIMES.COM & WE’LL PRINT THEM FREE OF CHARGE!
3EveryCHANCES TO WIN!!! week 2 lucky couples can win a fabulous, 3 course meal, from
our Winter Specials Board menu, with a bottle of wine … and … 1 couple can win a delicious, 9 item English breakfast, including tea or coffee (between 9.30am – 5pm)
AT MANHATTAN, CABO ROIG
FREE competition
JUST FIND WHERE WE’VE HIDDEN A BOTTLE OF WINE IN THIS ISSUE AND SEND THE ANSWER TO BLANCASALES@SOLTIMES.COM OR DROP YOUR ANSWER INTO MANHATTAN’S DIRECTLY!
CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST WEEK’S WINNERS:
MEAL FOR 2: LORENA EDWARDS (ORIHUELA COSTA) JOHN McDOUGALL (LO MARIBU) BREAKFAST FOR 2: DIANE SUTTON (DREAM HILLS)
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
COMMUN I T Y NEWS 50+ SOLOS
NORMALLY meet on the first and third Saturday of each month. The get togethers are open to anyone over 50 years of age and are on their own for various reasons. We are trying to use establishments in an extended area around Torrevieja. 2 MARCH 1.00 for 1.30pm Lunch at NANDOS RESTAURANT near the LOMOS MEDICAL CENTRE Torrevieja 16 MARCH 1.00 for1.30pm Lunch at QUESADA COUNTRY CLUB For information or to BOOK IN please contact RUTH 966 789 063 NO SUBS OR FEES to attend
PANACHE” are now looking to increase their dance troupe So ladies, if you have experience in tap, modern, comedy or Jazz dancing , come along to our weekly rehearsals, have fun and learn new interesting and exciting routines. Joining us will help up raise money for various locals charities. Info : Tel Chris. 634.310.314. or email. rytethen@ gmail.com
37
EMA I L E D I T OR @ SOLT I MES . COM
Spiritualist Church, Quesada
Meets at The Dojo, just off Avenida Las Naciones, Quesada (behind Clapton´s Bar). We hold a Sunday Service with Mediumship at 11.30 a.m., a Tuesday Evening of Mediumship at 7.30 p.m. Every Thursday there is an Open Circle where you can develop your skills commencing at 7.30 p.m. Spiritual Healing is available after both the Sunday and Tuesday services. Ray Bailey will take the Divine Service with Mediumship on Sunday 24th February followed by an Evening of Mediumship with David Darnbrough on Tuesday, 26th February. The Divine Service with Mediumship on Sunday, 3rd March will be taken by Gail Ross (U.K. Medium). Everybody welcome. Contact Wendy on 965 323 028 or www.spiritualistchurchquesada.com
entre naranjos & Laguna green fiesta committee
auction
Peter started in June 2012 with attracting customers through home & internet shopping as part of The Vista Group Spain. “We offer superb customer service with 1600-2000 products that are wanted, needed & affordable at UK prices direct to your door from a major british home shopping catalogue plc of 90 years that you all know and love”. Our customers are delighted with the fast turnaround & FREE Delivery! Business is expanding and we are teaching others how to do the same as we do in the Costa Blanca, Calida, & Almeria area.
saturday 2nd March 11am
We look forward to more people joining OUR Team and Follow Us in 2013. Contact us and start earning profits!
green area entre naranjos
www.pahomeshopping.com ~ 663 558 148/950 467 769 (see opportunity advert on page 12 in this paper)
Money raised goes to 2013 Fiesta Fund
38
SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
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hearing aids
appliaNCE repairs
DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS
hearing aids
Repairs to Washers, Dryers, Electric Cookers, Dishwashers, Fridges and Freezers
new ex demonstration models b.t.e only
All makes, Torrevieja and surrounding areas 20 years experience fast reliable service Call Stewart on office
966 785 451 / 654 939 202 FREE CALL OUT
4 channel aids €250 each 1 pair 8 channel aids €600 a pair
hours 10 - 4
Small call out on Fridges
beds
digital hearing tel: 698 418 642
boats
B O A T I N G LICENSES ARE NOW A LEGAL REQUIREMENT IN SPAIN Serenity Sailing RYA Training Centre, Competent Crew to Yachtmaster, See our Advertisement on page 13 for more information VHF & ICC. Owntuition on Centro Commercial, Flamenca Beach, boat La Planta, Playa Flamenca sail and power. If you have a yacht Tel: 965 321 701 or powerboat get qualifiedandcertified. businesses for sale/rent Contact Richard +34 638 056 224 Fully stocked and Email: enquiries@ licensed bar serenitysailing. for lease or sale com or visit: www. serenitysailing.com 10 year lease €80,000
Sweet Dreams
sale now on
plus rent €12000 pa Gross turnover 350,000 pa Freehold €280,000 or after 3 years less 80,000 lease money
car hire
for sale
Furniture
Furniture first
glass curtains
for sale
ALUMINIUM GATES Double & glass sl Electric Sliding. ROJALES SPECIALIST OF PRE - OWNED FURNITURE curtains Guaranteed no & AccESSORIES AT SENSIBLE PRICES rust. Call Tracy on Create more 966 726 891 house clearance specialist living space, FREE LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE no unsightly Pool tables, WE BUY, SELL & PART EXCHANGE frames, snooker tables, house clearance QUALITY FURNITURE reasonable table tennis tables, Open Mon - Fri 10 - 18.00, Sat 10 - 14.00 darts. Tel: 666 prices. C/Pablo Neruda 2, Local 5, Rojales www. For a free estimate 933 726 PLEASE CALL JAMIE ON: spainpool.com Tel: 646 111 825 966 713 075 OR 680 545 923 T yre , www.southcostablancaonline.com M itchelin heating 175x13 as new NEATER HEATER 20€ Pinar de garden services Campoverde. Tel:See our main cars & motorcycles advert on the news 648 052 670 also wanted pages Large amount transport in 1 hour DVD’s, CD’s and horse riding of videos reasonable price considered . Horse back Tel: 654 666 686 riding Murcia, Evenings only electricians cartagena Metal folding Telephone Electrician , available for all 20€ Tel: 654 works. Small or large. Call Dave 693 251 679 572 690 bed 666 686 Evenings 562. davendonc@aol.com only jewellery BOOK SALE – 100 plus Best Sellers nearly English jeweller wishes to buy broken new condition 25€ or unwanted Gold jewellery, silver and Quesada Tel: 966 716 599 coins specialists in all electrical & plumbing works LARGE GARDEN IMMEDIATE CASH new icp’s fitted - swimming pool heaters & TABLE seats 6 25 air-con, electric gates & burglar alarms € Cane Basket PAYMENT hot water boilers,gas heaters & solar Chair 10€. Large Call Peter new bath/shower suites - spanish legal Wall Mirror (60cm x 85cm), cane surround nearly Member of the new. 15€ Quesada www.electriciancostablanca.co.uk National Association of Goldsmiths Tel: 966 716 599 est 2006
Tel: 672 033 676
quick cash house clearance
tel: 669 723 709
A1 Group
Complete Garden Maintenance & Property Services We cover Mazarron & surrounding areas
Telephone 628 505 733
ELECTRICS & PLUMBING IN THE COSTA BLANCA
GOLD WANTED
no job too small & free estimates!
call clive: 617 268 346 or frank: 639 988 487
664 890 990
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
39
www.soltimes.com property for sale / rent
for sale cont... C omputer Monitor 15” flat screen with built in speakers model L5EX-TA complete with power cord, VGA cable and audio cable only 25€. Location Cuidad Quesada, Tel 965 725 573 / 659 013 882 ALUMINIUM Boat Gang Plank, Custom built with plywood treads, 8ft (2.4m) x 14”(36cm) easily adapted to any size if required. 60€ o.n.o. Tel: 965 725 573 / 659 013 882, Ciudad Quesada, Carl Foggarty Shark replica helmet, size small, 1998 approx, as new, collectors or enthusiast’s item open to offers. Tel 965 725 573 Cuidad Quesada. One Portable Gas Heater brand new 50€ Tel: 628 821 688
insurance
asssa medical insurances Asssa Mazarron, Diane Nolan, Tel: 968 153 396, mazarron@asssa. es
Olivetti Fax Lab Karaoke 220 – Fax machine, good condition only machine 20€, Tel 965 725 573 2 tvs, 2 R.C.L.Speakers Cuidad Quesada. 2 cable mikes Portable One Humidifier Hot and 1000 tracks on graphic Cold Brand New 50€ CD Tel: 628 821 688 Discs or with hard One Quality drive to computer song books Coffee Percolator working Machine including a can be seen as new steamer for milk etc. 500€ ono 50€. Tel: 628 821 Tel: 965 725 619 688
musician Lenny Mitchell, guitarist singer, international, professional, solo act. lenny Mitchell & his musical time machine invite you on a trip back to the 60’s & 70’s. Available to play in any venue. tel: 658 321 891 or email lennymitchell@live.co.uk
PETS
pet taxi
reasonable priced for SALE detatched cortijo properties / 20mins from mojacar This is a unique RENTAL PROPERTIES spanish cortijo with 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas, kitchen & URGENTLY REQUIRED diningroom as well as a workshop, in Cabo Roig/Villamartin, Orihuela Costa & Costa Calida
We have clients enquiring in this area
Contact CASASOL REAL ESTATE
tel: 965 325 601 tony@casasolrealestate.com
courtyard front & back & room for a pool. Mountain views.
Build 256 m², Terrace 100m², Plot 1200m²
locksmith
24 HR EMERGENCY LOCKSMITH Window / Shutter / Door locks Opened, Changed & Fitted Telephone: 653 145 300 Email:locksrus@hotmail.co.uk Special Deals for Urbanisations
personals
Friendly spectacular breasts XXL Domination Erotic Massage with a happy ending expert with beginners, Private. Claudia Tel: 674 615 827 (Torrevieja)
plastering
E N G L I S H PLASTERER internal finishing, external rendering, 15 years experience, good rates. FULLY LEGAL IN SPAIN. Call Chris 671 444 246 / 965 078 866 email: c_pettit@ hotmail.co.uk
For more details 672 033 676
Tel: 649 186 107
thunderpaul2003@hotmail.ccom
Reduced Reduced Reduced
only€39,950
Don’t miss the biggest BARGAIN yet!
Apartment For Sale
ATTACHED TOWNHOUSE DOÑA PEPA
1 bed, 1 bath apartment, fully fitted kitchen, white goods, parking, lovely views. Ideal golfing holiday apartment. Close to Mojacar / Turre. T: 664 291 793 or email: jescott29@hotmail.co.uk
We have a key-ready block of apartments in Los Montesinos with full finance! All you pay is €3,000 to complete.
3 Bedrooms 1 with Balcony, 2 Bathrooms, Fully Equipped Kitchen, Large Living & Dining Room, W Double glazed Terraces, Wonderful Sun Terrace/ Solarium, Satellite TV, Furnished, Communal Pool, 104 M2 Build, 110 M2 Plot €123,000
key ready block of apartments in los montesinos with full finance. all you pay is €3000 to complete
to ced u red 0 y l on 2 9.00
€4
Cheaper than renting? “Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some All you pay is EUR 3,000 buying costs and the rest is mortgaged at of the ads in this section offensive” around EUR 250 per month. Cheaper than renting an apartment in the ELEGANT SLIM, house visits Tel: 693 massage bed. Very area. Some of these 2 bedroom apartments have 2 bathrooms and some SEXY ITALIAN 357 526 discreet. Call 677 676 with only 1. It’s a first come, first served basis! Great deal! LADY availanble natasha , 554 San Policarpo The apartments do not come with white goods but do have pre home/house visits. No. 87 Apt 1-17 installation air conditioning. diverse Torrevieja, La Manga, Divorced, Cerca Calle Orihuela. Torre Pacheco & super sexy, private Can accommodate Quality and location Mazarron. Escort apartment, complete one person or The apartments are finished to a very with accompanied. available home & massage high quality with communal areas
TRAVESTI SPANISH
€85,000
€145,000
TRAVELLING IN AIR CONDITIONED VEHICLE DELIVERED TO DOOR PETS STAY IN PET FRIENDLY HOTELS. ACCOMPANIED TRAVEL AVAILABLE
(0034) 667 235 205 (sp) (0044) 7850 575862
Modern 2 bedroom American Style, ground floor apartment, Huge terrace, Entre Naranjos
decked out with marble floors and spacious corridors which make the building very light. The location is second to none, on the entrance to Los Montesinos overlooking the Torrevieja salt lakes and every apartment has its own private roof garden but there is no communal pool.
Prices are 59.900 €, the payment plan is 3.000 € deposit and straight to mortgage. If a client wants a 30 year mortgage it works out at 266 € per month and if it is a 35 year mortgage it works out at 242 € per month.
tel: 693 806 409
cortij0 grande golf course
for rent, 3 bed, 3 FOR SALE Apartment (Top floor / Penthouse) Almoradi,Costa Blanca bath spacious semidetatched house with garage situated in the popular area of La Zenia, walking distance to shops, 4 Bed, 2 Bath, Large Terrace, Lounge, Sep Kitchen, beaches and the new Utility Room, Communal Solarium, Lift, Furnished La Zenia Boulevard, inc. White Goods, UK TV , 90m² Interior Living Furnished, Long Space plus, 15m² Terrace / Balcony with Awnings. Overlooks a newly reformed Plaza, church & term, 550€ monthly mountains, unusually large terrace. 2 min walk plus electric & water, away from the town’s attractive central square, perfect family home all other amenities are also within easy walking Tel: 966 733 079 or distance,12 mins drive from the resort of Guardamar del Segura. Close to La Finca Golf course 619 098 543 Private Sale €75,000
SOLTIMES
Now offer our Classified advertisers 4 LOCAL EDITIONS costa blanca costa calida Almeria Roquetas De mar
...Let the Soltimes team help you... Also available online at
www.soltimes.com
for more info
Telephone 950 121 936 902 121 936 EXT 332
Tel: (0034) 676 534 978
South Facing Apartment on Entre Naranjos, 3 Bedrooms Fully Furnished €55,000 ono For more details 672 033 676 immaculate 2 bed, 1 bath ground apartmant situated in the very nice area of Lomas de Campoamar golf resort. very spacious accomadation of 86m2, furnished, walking distance to La Fuente Commercial centre, 24 hour security, includes use of communal pools, tennis courts etc, 395€ + bills, no offers
ring now on 648 111 779 for immediate viewing
40
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
trade Businesses can advertise in the classified section
Classified box from 9€. lineage only 45 cents per word - Deadline 5pm Friday Contact Christine 902 750 190 ext 330 or 966 719 647
storage
recruitment
removals
EARN 50€ - 100€
PER WEEK • Part-Time • Flexible Hours
fortnightly service
VANTASTIC 3.5 tonne removals or any handyman & van service inc furniture collection & assembly tel: 693 251 562 e mail: davendonc@aol. com
LWB Sprinter van going from south to North of the UK & back every 2 weeks, based near Murcia Airport. Tel: 610 846 260/ 0044 7519 186 355. or email: van. man@hotmail.co.uk
simply removals Spain ‹ UK › Spain • Full & Part Loads • Local-No jobs too small • Pets Welcome • Experienced owner/driver (Playa Flamenca)
Tel: 603 192 957/966 848 607
UK: 00 44 790 519 8895 MEL LANDON melvyynleo@yahoo.com
UK - SPAIN - UK 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
SOLareTIMES looking for
Bright, enthusiastic person with an outgoing personality to join our sales team and leap into spring with us. Office & field positions available. Experience not essential as full training will be given as long as you’re organised and can work to deadlines. Send your CV to rosemary@soltimes removals cont...
LowCostaMoves UK and Spain
Local
Papers arranged
wigs
S alon M argarethas 24 years in Torrevieja hair / wig specialist for swimming medical illness and pool safety hair loss problems. We offer different NEATER HEATER hair replacements, top fillers, hair See our main advert on the news prostheses, toupees pages & wigs. Natural & artificial hair & much more. Also fashion / festival accessories. TV/TS are welcome to our service. Call Margaretha on 966 921 846 for an appointment.
SPAIN -UK - SPAIN
selection of LHD
Full or part loads
Europe
Sky Digibox Pace with sky card BBC 1, 2, 3, 4 ITV1, 2, 3, ch4 & 5 60€ can deliver. Tel: 667 235 205
www.intereuropremovals.com
Pets Welcome
car parts
Rainbow Satellites for all your TV needs with clients all over the Murcia Region. Contact Matt or Alan 686 358 475 or rainbowsats@terra.es
Mob: 616820232 0044 7976367559 tony-foster@live.co.uk
Personal, friendly door 2 door Service - Van & Trailer Local Moves
satellite tv
Looking for a car
beechdale Removals Spain - UK & Return
Motorbikes & Caravans
Office: 965 326 920 email Mobile: 666 847 648 beechdale@hotmail.co.uk
Brian Torrevieja
Linen Mills
Express UK Spain Uk 620 582 063 weekly service
intereuroperemovals@yahoo.com
Now offer our Classified advertisers 4 LOCAL EDITIONS costa blanca costa calida Almeria Roquetas De mar
...Let the Soltimes team help you... Also available online at
www.soltimes.com
for more info
Telephone 950 121 936 902 121 936 EXT 332
cars for sale
we have a good & RHD vehicles
SOLTIMES
available for sale or exchange.
wanted
dead or alive
scrap metal plastic glass white goods all electricals (working or not working)
furniture tv’s, dvd’s etc clothes
t don’k it chuc k e it ta i’ll
Call mandy
info@irwinremovals.es
Local moves & deliveries Playa Flamenca
Anthony Foster
5€ per week for 5 cubic metres cheapest on the Costa Blanca Safe & secure
Working with a British PLC www.vistagroup.es
twice monthly service full or part loads local moves fully insured excellent rates tel: 607 016 267 /634 360 179
we shift most things
storage storage storage
Telephone 600 726 221 965 687 976 www.fwreurocars.com Opel Zafira 7 Seat Auto/Tip 2008 - SEVEN SEATER 1.9 CDTi Energy 83,000 kms, 1 owner Full service history A/C (Climate), Alloys PAS, ABS, CD player Front fog lights, MP3 E. windows/mirrors High spec model, ESP On-board computer, Rain sensors Metallic black
€ cash
for house
clearances
€12,950
www.fwreurocars.com
600 726 221 965 687 976
Irwin Removals
965 726 544
Car parts
Need quality new parts for any car
for sensible prices on all parts
Clutches, Brakes, alternators, service kits Starter Motors, headlights
Free quote go online or phone www.carpartsinspain.com
or telephone 692 930 326 Vehicles registration
“RE-PLATE” MATE GB
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 490€ plus Road Tax plus CO2 emission if applicable WE PROMISE TO BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTATION For a full service contact:
Alan 662 249 159
www.replatematecostablanca.com
vehicle imports & matriculation.fast and competitive rates. call 687 845 730
For re-registration of cars, motorbikes and motor homes contact Graham Shelton Who after re-registering over 1000 vehicles will put you on the right side of the road.
605 319 889 or 966 753 375 www.spanish-number-plates.com info@spanish-number-plates.com
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
Vehicles wanted
WANTED
ALL VEHICLES
Cars, Motorhomes, 4x4’s, Boats, Vans, Trailers, Quads, Classics
FOR CASH Telephone:
Anything considered telephone Tim on 662 211 993
call SOLTIMES
CLASSIFIED
Telephone: 902 750 190 ext 330 mechanic
mobile
CAR REPAIR SERVICE
CAR AIR CONDITIONING REGASING SERVICE SERVICING, REPAIRS ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS GARAGE SERVICES
610 078 940
CASH
Best prices paid Spanish English
699 805 995
Ed’s
CA4RS
wanted cars for cash
WE BUY
Cars, Vans, Bikes Damaged or Scrap Reliable Cars Bought For Cash
jet skis urgentely wanted any condition
bangers4cash@yahoo.co.uk
603 100 692
CASH CASH CASH Same day collection
We pay instant cash same day for cars, vans, bikes, quads, caravans, trailers, absolutley anything!
From 1€ to 10,000€
Call Phil: 607 848 332 All vehicle repairs, servicing, small bodywork repairs, ITV and paperwork needs. Ken Sherwood, British Mechanic - Tel: 679 646 859 (Costa Calida area only).
van hire Van hire
ONE WAY
UK to Spain or Spain to UK
*LOCAL *NATIONAL *EUROPEAN
* COLLECTION & DELIVERY *STORAGE
TEL: 667 235 205
Pick up/drop off locations Throughout UK, France and Spain
From a pocket watch to a piano....
If it’s under 300€ you can advertise your items
free of charge
SOLTIMES SELL IT FAST in the
SELL IT FREE
EMAIL YOUR ITEMS FOR SALE TO BLANCASALES@SOLTIMES.COM PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY • NO PETS
41
42
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
D D
animals D
D D D D D
Wellington gets a posh pooch pad
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DAYA NUEVA DOLORES 2 v DAYA NUEVA 2
INFANTILS G10s NERVOUS DAYA HAVE TO SETTLE FOR A DRAW This was a game that Daya had to win but it was always going to be a hard fought affair. Dolores started brightly giving the visitors’ defence a lot to think about. After 10 minutes Daya came more into the game and had a couple of good attacks. The very strong wind was not helping either side, making it very difficult to control the ball. With 20 minutes gone Daya looked the more likely to score as they had the home side under constant pressure. For all their efforts Daya couldn’t turn this possession into goals. The home side did look dangerous on their occasional breakaways and one such breakaway on 30 minutes resulted in a goal, much against the run of play. It was Daya’s turn to be put under pressure now but they hit back on the stroke of halftime when a high cross into the Dolores penalty area was smartly headed home by Marcos. So honours even at half time but Daya were by far the better side. Daya started the second half well, the Dolores keeper had to make a good save with his legs to keep the scores level. The visitors’ pressure brought them their second goal on 42
minutes when David started and finished a good move with a close range effort. Although it was Daya well in control it was very nerve wracking as a 1 goal lead did not seem enough The visitors came under some intense pressure as the half drew to a close but somehow their defence coped. On 70 minutes Daya could have sealed victory but Carlos’ fierce shot was well saved. From this save the home side attacked and a well struck shot brought the scores level. With seconds remaining Francisco’s long range effort grazed the crossbar on its way over, so Daya had to settle for a 2 - 2 draw. It was a poor result for Daya considering the possession they had enjoyed. The visitors strong and muscular striker (Jose Gregorio) was not able to play this evening and was very much missed. This result gives Daya a two point lead at the top of the table but Cox, in second place have two games in hand. What a game that is going to be when the two sides meet each other in a couple of weeks time. Two candidates for Man of the Match this evening, Jota and Francisco. They just never stopped working their socks off. Daya Dave Team Sponsor: Segurlab
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Match Report, La Finca, 13th February, 2013 Okay Horatio, it is now time for you to sod off somewhere else, we are getting a little bit fed up with your presence on a Wednesday. La Finca was the venue for today’s game in the 3rd of 4 rounds for the Captains Stableford Trophy and it is fair to say that it was always going to be a difficult day and a fairly low scoring round where a score in the low 30’s would be considered and decent knock. The only player to achieve and better his handicap was Ray Ewins who came in with a very credible 39 points to take the honours on the day and the Silver Division. Enjoy the new handicap Ray! Ray was a full 5 points ahead of Jenny Morris who took 2nd spot in the Silver category with 34 points, pushing Ian Parkinson into 3rd place with 32 points and edging it on the countback system. The Gold category didn’t really fare much better and
34 points was enough for our Treasurer, Steve Higgins, to claim the top spot with Captain Alan Rickers taking the runners-up spot with 32 points, one point ahead of Richard Wale on 31 points. The Best Guest award went to Michael Moore with 32 points and the NTP’s were very hard to win with only one of the four being claimed which was by the Flying Dutchman, Theo Boelhouwer who just landed on the green on the 6th. Photo is Gold winners, Mick Kennedy, Alan Rickers, Steve Higgins and Richard Wale. Our next game, Wednesday 20th February 2013, see’s us at Roda, so if you fancy a game just look at our website www.tmgs.org or call the Match Secretary on 966719604. As ever, we do have spaces available for our Friendly Friday games at Villa Martin, so if you fancy a knock around there, call Steve Higgins on 634 017 511.
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Orihuela Half Marathon strong winds) all
(10/02/13) At this year´s 15th running of “Ciudad de Orihuela Media Maraton”, three of Running Wild A.C. members took their place among the start entry of 1,200 plus athletes. With this reasonably flat course & good weather conditions prevailing (free from the recent
three were able to post very respectable times. Ingrid Patursson (Veterana `D´) finished in 1hr. 52´23” for an excellent 2nd place in her category. Helen Giles (Veterana `A´) following her Santa Pola pb of 3 weeks ago, ran this event 3 minutes quicker for a further pb of 1hr. 58´19” & was naturally most pleased. Comparative newcomer, Peter James (Veterano `B´) ran at a steady 6´12´´per K for a 2hrs. 11´25” finish & should gradually improve with regular training. These 3 will be joined by several other members of their Club to take part in both the Torrevieja Half Marathon & 10K races on 24th Feb. (start / finish at “Hombre del Mar” area from 10am).
St. JAMES’S GATE GOLF SOCIETY Vistabella Golf – 12th February 2013 What a difference a month makes today it was very windy a cold, so much so that most of the members were wrapped up so that they could not be recognised, just falling short of balaclavas. A is the norm the greens at Vistabella were in excellent condition but very slick, so slick they were shiny and what with the wind putting was as difficult as keeping the ball from disappearing left or right. Obviously, the conditions had a dramatic effect on the scoring. On days like this there are funny moments and none more so than seeing Tommy Richardson ball drifting into the water and on his second attempt to get it out he had his second shower of the day It was a Stableford Competition and some singles first round
Saint’s inconsistent run continues Crevillente Deportivo “B” 1-0 box as the San Ful defence shot fly high and wide. Minutes
C.F Sporting de San Fulgencio In a game replete of defensive uncertainty and nervousness, an early goal from Crevillente’s centreback was enough to earn his side a vital three points against a hard-working, but ultimately poor, San Fulgencio. After a high tempo start where both teams enjoyed forays into the opposition’s area, the hosts did take the lead when Jose Navarro was outjumped by the impressive number 17, who saw his header nestle into the bottom corner just before the 10 minute mark. Crevillente were getting some joy with deliveries into the
looked frail. Jose ‘Jovi’ Navarro made up for his error with a fine reaction save after initially dropping the ball with two opponents bearing down on him. The Saint’s first attempt on target didn’t arrive until the 20th minute, but Braulio Garcia’s free-kick was too close to the goalkeeper who palmed over. This spurred the visitors on and after some good play by Alex Hall, Carl Kirby headed down to Marco Aurelio in the box but the striker fluffed his lines and fired well over the bar. Braulio then had another chance, but he too saw his
later ‘Jovi’ got down well to keep Crevillente out and then Carl had a great chance, but he got too much on the header and sent it over. The hosts, who have been struggling this season, could and maybe should have added a second, but the striker’s delicate lob dropped on the wrong side of the post. Just after the restart Crevillente came close again, this time a floated free-kick bounced past everyone and hit the top of the crossbar. There wasn’t much more action until the last 10 minutes of the game, when Gary Williams had a wonderful
Before we get into the serious stuff, there was a visit to the club on Valentines Day, by Greenlands answer to ‘Willy Wonka’. Yes everyone, no other than super smoothie himself, Grahame Bater, only went and gave all the lovely ladies a box of chocolates before the club Thurs league. Anyone who finds themselves with a surplus, then yours truely just adores the black ones, chockies that is!! Ok, without further ado, it’s round up time. Going from strength to strength, are the 2 Fed 4s teams, Bulls & Bears. At San Miguel, the Bulls excelled against their Harriers, winning on 2 rinks, and overall shots. No horse meat in these guys & dolls, 100% beef I think you’ll find: S Stead, J Pocock, M Brown, B Pocock 23-14. S Heath, Bill Sims, L & D Greenland 20-12. Home to the other San Miguel team, Hawks, our Bears recorded the same score, courtesy of these roving minstrels: F Tilley, C Thomas, P Lockley, A Goodfellow 23-8. T Coombs, Penny Tomkins, F & M Edwards 23-14.
really go the way of our 3 teams. In the top div, only the rink of M Beardsall, M Kilby & J Wilcock won for the Sycamores, as they went down 2-12 at home to San Luis Klingons. Over at La Marina, the Maples had the narrowest of matches, in which they won 3, lost 3, but lost by 1 shot overall. Well done: B Tomlin, F Tilley, V Mahomet 12-11, C Thomas, J Pocock, M Brown 14-13. J Clements, F & M Edwards 1911. Drop down a div, and the Chestnuts fought out a hard 7-7 draw, at home to Monte Mar Novilleros. Luvvly Jubbly: J Thompson, J Webb, J Wray 18-18. B Norris, L Morris, P Heyes 21-19. D Watt, D Thompson, D Watt 20-16. H Langlois, T Lawton, G Inwood 17-13. Spare a thought for those dedicated (or should that read ‘crazy’?) Winter/Berleeners. Having left the club at 7.45am last Weds, they made their way ‘up north’ to El Cid. Although 2 rinks only lost by 2 shots in the Winter league, and the lone Berleen team by 3, they came away
empty handed. Not to worry though, for post match there was a scrummy carvery meal and refreshments. Back to the drawing board me thinks! Wonder who the scapegoats will be - as if I don’t know!! Finally, it’s Fri’s Southern league business. Hilda’s Elms are making a real fight of staying up in div 1, where they produced a great result away to San Miguel Jaguars. These 4 rinks were responsible for an 8-6 victory: B Tomlin, J & S Westall 19-19. M Mackay, N Cork, Bobbie Sims 19-8. C Thomas, F & M Edwards 1515. T Coombs, V Mahomet, Bill Sims 19-15. Top flight Oaks were also away, at Emerald Isles. Against their Cavaliers, they won on 2 rinks, to go down 4-10. Good on yer: P Lockley, D Watt, C Lloyd 27-7. J & D Thompson, L Greenland 22-17. But once again, twas the Cedars who lead the way, following another great performance. At home to San Luis Pumas, they won on 4 rinks, to record a 10-4 victory. Wood you believe it: M Beardsall, Z & J Wilcock 13-11. J Redfern, M Kilby, A Brown 24-13. T
GREENLANDS BOWLS CLUB BY STEVE HIBBERD SABA league Mon, didn’t
Knockout rounds being played, the Results of the day were: Gold Category Silver Category 1st: Ivie Davies 26 pts 1st: Tom Richardson 24 pts C/ B 2nd: Alan Moody 25 pts 2nd: Ron Nicholson 24 pts 3rd: Arthur Williams 23 pts C/B 3rd: Pete Nicholls 23 pts C/B 4th: Ron Chambers 23 pts 4th: Reid Kane 23 pts 5th: Mick Hithersay 22 pts 5th: Pete Root 20 pts Nearest The Pin: Hole 4: Alan Moody. Hole 15: Ron Nicholson. Longest Drive: Ivie Davies Best Guest: Janet Davies 19 pts First Round Singles KO Results Ivie Davies beat Tom Baldwin 10 & 8 - Malcolm Anderson beat Geoff Wild 5 & 4 - Alan Moody beat Rodney Smith 8 &6 It was good to see Rodney
chance to level. The player/ manager watched in agony as his lob landed on the roof of the net. On the break the home side won a free-kick and almost found a second goal, but a firm header smashed back off the crossbar, again. The Saints rallied in the last few minutes, but the chances didn’t materialise in the end. A huge win for struggling Crevillente, but valuable points dropped for San Fulgencio Our next game is at home against Hondon Nieves, next Sunday at 12.00! Thank you to Telecom 900 and the rest of our sponsors. Match report by Jordan Lucas
Hodges, T French, J Wray 2214. F Tilley, Penny Tomkins, T Upham 17-12. Good news for Greenlands, comes in the form of this years Nationals opening ceremony. It will be held here on Sat 11 May, and I for one am really looking forward to this prestigious event.
43
sport Smith back after his cyclone affected holiday and back helping Rocket to present the prizes at Izzy’s Bar who put on our favourite munchies, many Category Gold thanks again Tony and Roxy. Next game is at the delightful Murcia course Altorreal Golf, Tuesday 26th February, if you do not know the way there, then meet at the Mercadona Torreta car park at Category Silver 08:00 the first Tee is 10:00 please be at the course for email sanmigron@gmail.com 09.15am Photos: Category Gold: Ivie For more information or if you Davies – Alan Moody – Arthur wish to play with the friendliest Williams Golf Society contact Ron Category Silver: Tom Richardson Nicholson on 678849142 or – Ron Nicholson – Pete Nicholls
Orihuela Costa darts Monday night fun darts league Results - Week 17. 12/02/13 Horacio A 2 - 7 Concierto’s Belushi’s 3 - 6 Oche-Holics Liberty’s 9 - 0 Horacio B Pablos P - P JJ Belushi High scores 120+ 121 John “Nico” Nicholl (Oche-Holics ) 120 Mark “Lloydy” Lloyd (Oche-Holics)
120 Keith “Yorkie” Powell (Belushi’s ) League Table 116 OCHE-HOLICS 83 CONCIERTO´S 77 PABLO´S 76 LIBERTY´S 63 BELUSHI´S 49 HORACIO´S A 40 HORACIO´S B 27 JJ BELUSHI´S
Torrevieja CC 74 for 10 La Manga CC 76 for 4 A disappointing start to the season for Torrevieja CC. After winning the toss and electing to bat, wickets feel quite early. Facing accurate bowling from Vicash Singh (1 for 3 off 3 overs) and Harmit (2 for 16 off 5 overs) Torrevieja struggled to set any kind of target for La Manga to chase. With 5 batsmen failing to score at all, only a stubborn 27 from Mark Talbot gave the score a hint of respectability. With Akash weighing in with 3 for 4 off 3 overs and young Robbie 2 for 1 off 2 overs the game looked set for an early finish.
It took La Manga only 17 overs to reach the runs required with a swashbuckling 32 from Ravi and a quick fire 19 from Vicash Singh, including 3 sixes. Pick of the bowling from Torrevieja were Adam Alger with 2 for 7 off 3 overs and Ali with 1 for 15 off 4 overs. Torrevieja introduced 5 new players for this season and although things didn,t go their way, the potential is promising. Any one wishing to join Torrevieja CC either as a player, administrator, or sponsor please contact 605 319 889 or 649 479 678.
Andy Wilson Photographer
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
motoring
MAGGOTS END
RODS AND REELS The competition this week was the 4th round of the Coastrider Challenge cup. The venue, ( wait for it ) was the Embalse de Pedrera. Well, we have had some windy days but this one beat those. The wind blew from the north, north-west direction all day. If you didn´t nail your gear to the deck then it went away with the waves. We were just waiting for a windsurfer to come past it was that bad. The water is still receeding as more water must be being drawn off for the farmers!!!!!. (What about the summer, who knows). Top Rods on the day 1st Dave (Yours Truly) Hoare fishing the feeder using maggot with 4.56 kilo´s. 2nd Bill ( The Master ) Reade fishing the feeder using tares with 4.54 kilo´s. 3rd Ian ( From the Darkside ) Haughton fishing the feeder using maggot with 4.02 kilo´s. Although an exceptional bad day due to the weather there was only one dry net!!. The peg I fished will have a blue cross put on it, as I never lost any gear on snags OR any fish finding snags!!!!. PLEASE NOTE The club has some vacancies at present, if you are interested in joining please contact Derek Swann on 966 729 293 or 603 535 771. ABBEY ANGLING RESULTS Supplied by Terry Screen This week’s 6th round of the Abbey Angling Cup was fished on the river Segura at Murcia on the 12th February, the walling on the opposite bank is just about finished and we will have to wait to see what will happen next. We decided to give A section a try which is opposite to the Hospital, the water there is
narrower but deeper, and although the water level is down we had an average of 4feet. It was a cold day and very windy and the fishing was hard, but once again there was only one dry net. 1st Dave (The sweetie man) Hutchinson with13.580kg fishing the pole using paste 2nd Bill (The Master) Reade with 6.120kg fishing the feeder using sweet corn and bread 3rd Terry (Swing em) Screen with 5.600kg fishing the feeder using bread and maggot We have now received official confirmation of all our matches booked in Murcia and Valencia regions and our fixture lists are now available These and all details are available on our website www.abbeyangling.com or from the match secretary Terry Screen on 965 328 368 ANGLERS TOGETHER The objective of Anglers Together was to introduce anglers to each other, who otherwise had no one to fish with or didn’t know where to fish. It was successful in bringing together many anglers who established friendships and which continue to this day. No meetings are held now but information is still available through our email address; anglerstogether@ hotmail.co.uk. TIGHT LINES DAVE HOARE
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CLAPTONS GOLF SOCIETY LAS COLINAS 15TH FEBRUARY 2013 This month’s competition was held at Los Colinas. This was the first Society’s first visit to the course since it opened, but not the first time many of the members had played here as they had played with other societies. With the Captain playing first off the tee we were met with a bright sunny morning with just a little chill. This was to change to leave us with good playing weather. At the end of the day most of the members were a little disappointed that there was so much walking on a course where the buggy has more influence but the fairways were all roped off. The greens were fluffy and were far from consistent being slow, quick quick slow. Everybody finished and we returned to the Clubhouse to the humorous tale of the Captain
FC TORREVIEJA SUCCUMB TO LAST MINUTE EQUALISER Last Sunday Torry hosted 3rd from bottom Denia who like Torry had not long since changed manager in an attempt to revive their fortunes. Since the turn of the year Denia had won 3, drawn and lost 2. The previous week they had lost at home to league leaders Novelda 2-1 while Torry had been triumphant at Jove Espanol winning 2-1. The game was switched to the artificial pitch of the Nelson Mandela “Rugby” stadium where Torry train. This had been done at the request of the Manager and his players who had expressed a strong preference to play there instead of at the Vicente Garcia because of the state of the pitch. Torry lay 14th in the table 5 points outside the relegation zone and a win was the desired outcome especially against a team beneath them in the table. Torry had no suspensions or injuries so the manager had the luxury of a full squad to select from. Fit again Jorge was surprisingly on the bench as was new boy Villanueva and also Manu Amores, who was given a bottle of bubbly by the Torry Army before the game after being voted player of the
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and the snake. On making enquiries and knowing our Captain’s fear of snakes, we were told that on taking his shot on the 3rd hole a snake slithered over his foot. This caused him to miss his shot altogether and for him not to return to earth for the next four holes. He returned to Claptons still shaking to provide us with his usual excellent fare, but it will be a long time before Chris lives his snake tale down. Many thanks to him and his staff for their hospitality. You can see from scores below that most of the members had a very hard day. Overall Winner Tony Stead 34 points on c/b Gold Winner Mark Pollitt 33 points Gold Runner Up Andy Trefry 31 points Silver Winner Tony Wilson 34 points Silver Runner Up
John Harvey 33 points on c/b Best Front Nine Phyllis Venables 18 points Best Back Nine Rick Drake 15 points on c/b Nearest the Pin 5th Andy Trefry 7th Bill Martin 10th David Gray 14th Alan Venables Most Potential Dave Mace Singles match semi-final: Chris Gridley bt Dave Pretty
2&1: Dave Gray bt Ian Faulkner 4&2. Doubles match: Mark Pollitt and Paul Burletson bt Dave Johnson and Dave Mace 6&5. Next meeting at Bonalba Golf and Spa on 15th March. Please note, members who have signed up on the web for this match make sure that you have paid on or before Friday 8th March.
month for January. Torrys starting line-up: Manolo, Vicente , Juanfran, Rafa, Dani Meseguer, Burguillos, Abel (Cuco Ros, 46 ‘), Luis, Patri (Manu Amores, 77’), Gasch , Koeman (Villanueva, 46 ‘). The match kicked-off in front of a crowd around 400 eager to see Torry turn on the style and give a performance like the last one at the Nelson Mandela when they thumped Catarroja 6-0. Denia took to the field in an All Black kit. I thought the Kiwi’s had come to town. The first half was generally even with both defences in control with little goalmouth action and neither keeper having much to do. It was littered with mis-placed passes and for me to many “up and unders”. It was supposed to be football not Rugby with the object being to keep possession and move the ball forward from player to player rather than play it backwards and then launch it forward and gain yardage. On the half-hour mark Koeman was hacked down for what was definitely a bookable offence but the ref gave nothing and Koeman limped away. Patri had a chance before the break after being found by a fine
deep cross by Vicente but shot wide of the mark. 00 at the break. The injured Koeman didn’t appear for the second-half nor did Burguillos who for me had been one of the better Torry players. On came Villanueva and Cuco Ros. Torry started the better on the front foot with Luis Carlos prominent. After 53 minutes Torry got the breakthrough with a GOALLLLL from Cuco Ros who drove in at the back post following a corner. Abel then lost the ball in midfield and Denia created a chance and Manolo had to tip the shot round the post at full stretch. A couple of Denia players were then cautioned inside a few minutes for late challenges as they tried to stop the Torry flow. Patri had a good run and powerful shot which went just over the top. On 73 minutes Denia were down to 10 after Villanueva was scythed down. The omens looked good for Torry but they still needed a second goal to put the game to bed. Villanueva was almost played in but the opposition keeper just got to the ball first. Luis Carlos then flashed a ball across goal which struck the knees of the Denia keeper. Manu Amores broke down
the right and delivered an inviting ball into the box which Gasch failed to capitalise on and his weak effort was comfortably saved by their keeper. The game entered injury time and Denia broke through the middle. Cuco Ros felled one of their forwards just outside the box and a free-kick was awarded. The veteran Dani Garcia took the free-kick for Denia and curled it round the wall into the bottom corner of the net for a GOALLLLL with Manolo reacting too late to stop the ball. The Denia players and bench were ecstatic. Torry kicked-off again and the ref blew the final whistle. Harsh on Torry who deserved to win but goals win games and Torry failed to add to the first particularly after Denia went down to 10 and paid the price. Torry remain in 14th in the table still 5 points outside the relegation zone. On Sunday they have a difficult game away to Ath Saguntino who beat league leaders Novelda on their home turf last Sunday. Hopefully Torry can come home with something. A “pig sick” Darrylldinho following his adopted team in Spain denied all 3 points at the very end
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• rolls royce silver spirit, rhd, 51,000 miles..€13,950 • VAUXHALL ZAFIRA 1.9 CDTi, DIESEL, 2010, 35,405 KMS.......... ......................................................................................................€12,950 • bmw x5, 3l dIESEL sPORT AUTOMATIC 2003 82,000K MILES..............................................................................€10,950 • SAAB 93 ESTATE, 1.9D, AUTO, 2005, 85,000 MILES ... €7,950 •J AGUAR S TYPE, 2.7 SE, DIESEL, 2007 …..................... €7,950 •R ENAULT GRAND ESPACE, 2.2 DCi, DIESEL, 2005.....€6,950 • FIAT DOBLO ACTIVE, 1.4 PETROL, AIR CON, 2009, 37,000 MILES ...................................................................................... €5,950 • KIA SORRENTO 1.9CRDi, DIESEL, 2003, 85,000 MILES €5,950 • KIA CARENS CRDi, DIESEL, 2006, 45,000 MILES..........€5,950 •K IA CARENS 2L CRDi, DIESEL ’05, 90k MILES...€5,950 • CITROEN XSARA, 2L HDi, DIESEL, 2004, 69,000 MILES.............. ..................................................................................................... €4,950 • FORD MONDEO 2L PETROL, HATCH, 2004, 120,000 MILES …........................................................................................€2,950 • MAZDA 323, 1.6 PETROL, 2001, 60,000 MILES..............€2,450 • BMW 316 1.6 PETROL, AUTO, 1994, 138,000KMS.. €1,750
Right hand drive - spanish reg
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toyota auris 1.6 WTi, SOL, 2008, 99,000kms
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FORD FOCUS 1.8 TDCi, DIESEL, 2008, 57,000KMS
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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
sport
Ship Hispaniola Golf Society
Ship Hispaniola Golf Society (in association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services) at Font Del Llop 11th February 2013. For this month’s meeting a group of 14 players visited the established course at Font del Llop taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services. The weather was chilly and with winds getting up to 30 mph with hail stones and the course was very much the boss with most of players walking in. The scoring was low on the day and the winners (from those that finished) were as follows: 1st – Grant Goble - 36 points 2nd – Darren Holden - 28 points 3rd – Kevin Robinson – 26 points The Rose Bowl (best team score) was won by Grant Goble
and Terry Matthews Nearest the Pin on Hole 7 was won by Grant Goble. Due to the severe and almost unplayable conditions Font de Llop granted us a rain check and we will replay the course on Sunday 17/02/13 After the game we returned to the Ship Hispaniola bar in La Mata for well deserved refreshments and our thanks go to Janet for the on-going support The next society fixture is at Vistabella on Monday 11th March 2013 and guests and more members are welcome so call Grant Goble on 667329772 or better still call in at the bar. Report by Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or see us at our web-site at www.costablanca-greenfees.com.
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Torrevieja Swimmers Winter Alevin Championships in Valencia see results for Torrevieja Swimmers. The Winter Regional Swimming Championships (Alevin category - 12 and 13 years) were held this Saturday in the Municipal Pool Sagunto, Valencia. Three swimmers from Club Natacion Torrevieja qualified to participate against 232 other qualifying swimmers from 36 clubs throughout the Valencian Region. The clubs swimmers Alexandra Amat, Zoe Connolly and Elian Del Rio Castillo competed in two races each against the top swimmers from each of the 36 clubs in the Communidad of Valencia. With the support of their Coach Juanma Martinez the team started the mornings events with Elian in the 100 m freestyle event, knocking 4 seconds off his previous PB earning 15th position out of 61 swimmers (1:11:25) and Alexandra a new PB of 1:21:21, and 21st position out of 55 participants, lowering her time by 2 seconds. Last to compete
in the morning session was Zoe Connolly in the 100 m Butterfly event. Zoe reduced her PB by 1 second and gained 6th place in the competition with a time of 1:26:67. With a rest over lunch the team went back to compete in the 100m Breaststroke and 100m Backstrokes events. Elian worked hard for his 19th position of 40 competitors in the 100 m Breaststroke race with a time of 1:39:82. Followed by Alexandra and Zoe in their 100m Backstroke event, Alexandra reduced her PB by 6 seconds and a new time of 1:32:66 and 22 place out of 37 swimmers and Zoe won 5th place with a new PB of 1:21:31. All three swimmers worked hard throughout the event and showed improvements on recent best times. Well done! For more information regarding Torrevieja Swimming Club please contact Rosa - 665 454 126 or President Felipe on 609 418 776 or by e-mail on info@clubnataciontorrevieja. com
Cornish Pride Los Dolses Ten Pin Bowling League Matches played February 12th Split Happens 5 match winning run came to an end this week, as they were easily beaten 8-0 by Los Bandidos. That win moved L.B. up from 7th place to 3rd place in the league. Bottom team Los Lobos gave top placed Team Finland an early fright by winning the first game, mainly thanks to John Lakin having his best scratch and hcp game so far, 179 and 226. T.F. went on to win the match 6-2, but it was very close. Another very close match saw Splash share the points 4-4 with Mixers, the Splash skipper Diego Munoz had his highest game so far a 207 scratch. Bandoleros came back to the league this week, and battled out a 6-2 win against Crazy Pinz. Top bowler for C. P. was Philip Adams with a 222 hcp game, and for Bandoleros it was Jamie Brian with a 523 hcp series. Both Carp-r-us and Cornish Pride were both on 3 match losing streaks, so it was
probably inevitable that they would share the points 4-4, but they both stopped the rot. Top score for the Carps was Sue Allen 560 hcp series, and for C.P. it was Shane Winfield, with a 622 hcp series. Yet another drawn match, was Bar Mosquito and Caballo Negro, it was the Mossies first drawn match of the season, a good result against 4th placed C.N. Top scorer for Mossies was John Tennant with his best 4 scores of the season, including a 188 scratch game. Hall y Day kept up the pressure on the leaders, by beating Lucky Strike 8-0, it was the first defeat for L.S. in 4 matches. It was also the quarter finals of our KO cup,. Results; Splash beat Hall y Day, Mixers beat Lucky Strike, Los Bandidos beat Split Happens, and Team Finland beat Caballo Negro. The 4 winners go on to the semi-finals to be played on March 5th.
Lime Bar Golf Society Los Altos, Orihuela Costa
The golf societies venue for the 13th February 2013 was held at the Villa Martin Golf Course. The weather was fine but very cold in the strong wind making play difficult at times, however this did not deter an enjoyable round of golf on a course a number of our players had not played before. The competition was in the stableford format and the scores are recorded as follows. Nearest the Pin on the 9th hole was Tony Jones. Nearest the pin on the 13th hole was Les Henderson. Nearest the pin on the 17th hole was Dave Kirk. Best guest with a score of 33 was Mark Taylor. Silver Class 4th Place was Barry Shawyer with a score of 28. Silver Class 3rd place was Norman Dobson with a score
of 29. Silver Class 2nd place was Dave Railton with a score of 32. Silver Class 1st place was Tony Jones with a score of 35. Gold Class 4th place was Les Henderson with a score of 30 Gold Class 3rd place was Bob Adaire with a score of 33. Gold Class 2nd place was Stewart Coleman with a score of 35. Gold Class 1st place was Bill Dennie with a score of 39. A very good day in pleasant company, thank you to Captain Mick Slater and Vice Captain Stewart Coleman for organising the event and also thanks to the Staff at The Lime Bar and ladies for a most enjoyable meal. Anyone wishing Join our friendly society just need to phone Mick on 659866468 or Stewart on 966180003.
Lo Marabu Golf Society (in association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services) at Font Del Llop 14th February 2013. For this month’s interim meeting a group of 24 players visited the established course at Font del Llop taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services. The weather was superb and welcome after a month of cold high winds and this reflected in excellent scoring. The winners on the day were as follows: 1st Dave Blinston 37 points 2nd Mike Probert 37 points 3rd Dave Mason 36 points 4th Mick Simpson 35 points
Best Front 9 L Fowler 21 points Best Back 9 D Woods – 21 points Nearest Pins – D Blinston (2), D Mason, A Walker and S Coomber After the game we returned to the Lo Marabu, which is located at Dona Pepa, Quesada for a welcome meal prepared by the bar and the prize presentation. Our next official society meeting is at Villamartin on 28th February 2013. Report by Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or see us at our web-site at www.costa-blancagreenfees.com.
TORREGOLF.EU at Alenda. Monday the 18th. saw a full house of members playing our Stableford competition in conditions that can only be described as perfect and this was reflected in some great scores. The course was in a great condition and it was good to see some green grass as opposed to the brown stuff that we have seen recently. On the day the results were Category 1. 1st.Keith Mann 36 points 2nd.Paul Hurrell 31 and 3rd. on a countback from Peter Kerr, Sue Owens, Paul Abbott and Roy Middleton was David Gill with 27 points. Caegory 2. 1st.Phil Brigham 32 points 2nd. Bernard Ball 30 on a countback from Con Moore. Category 3 Brian Coombes 39 points 2nd. Christopher Rose 38 and 3rd.
David Winder 34 points Nearest the pins to-day going to Keith Mann on the 3rd.Geoff Betts on the 5th. Dudley Pike on the 13th. and Peter Kerr on the 16th Our game at Vistabella on the 15th.resulted in a win for Alan Moody with 33 points Our next venue is at La Serena on the 23rd. followed by Altorreal on the 5th.March and Vistabella on the 10th. so if you would like to take part and play many other courses then contact David Winder on 626 774 157 or email him at davidwinder.torregolf@gmail. com .Membership is just 10 Euros which also supports The Full Monte, the International (CB) Football Supporters Club of CD Montesinos.
www.soltimes.com
SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013
sport
SMGS at LAS RAMBLAS
Quesada Golf Society I’m sure we all remember certain sporting events billed as the “Thriller in Manilla” or “Rumble in the Jungle”…..well you could refer to this not-sobig event as the “Scramble at Ramblas” as our 2 and 3 ball Texas Scramble got underway on a chilly but bright February morning. To stay on our theme of descriptive rhymes, it didn’t take long to identify the “Awesome Foursome” comprising two of the hotly tipped teams bidding for glory. Barry Roehrig had teamed up with Paul Guest and low handicappers John Osborne and Steve Fleet made up the other favoured twosome. Known and loved (by some) as the trickiest of the Quara courses, Ramblas has been receiving a much-needed “haircut” over the last couple of weeks and quite a few of the strategically placed trees, well bruised over the years, have been severely cut back with some even gone forever! Personally, while waiting to play our tee shots on a few tees, I closed my eyes for a few seconds and took delight, not in the sounds of nature, but in the lovely humming of half a dozen chain saws! Although Barry’s back twinges kept his team out of the prizes,
Fairwayz GS
Today 14th February St Valentines day, we played at Font Del Llop, and even though we didn’t want to leave our WAGS home alone, we 26 golfers from the Fairwayz golf society tried to win a prize to take home to our loved ones. However, not all of us were successful, but did try our best. A Texas Scramble was the format for the day, not everyone’s cup of tea, but always a good leveler for the difference in handicaps. The scores were as follows:Winning team with 73pts, 1 over par, was Norman Padmore. Terry Rogers. Tony McMillan. Dave Titchen. Second team with 74pts, 2 over par, was Dave Freeman. Les Hops. Bill Howie. Alex Goslan.
he did have the privilege of marking the winning card. It was a runaway victory for John and Steve who were both on top form expertly combining their right and left-handed talents in a gross under-par round which netted down to an incredible 10 under par. Coming second 6 shots further back was one of the teams of three made up of Phil and Marg Birtwistle with Bill Preston. NTP’s were awarded to Keith Stevenson, Barry Roehrig and Phil de Lacy with no-one managing to stay on the 14th. Two delightful bottles of “Marques de Caceres” were presented to Gwyn Davies and John Aitchinson as the “Abacus” award for the day in celebration of their not so brilliant score. Please visit www.smgs.org to read all about our society and the forthcoming Wednesday meetings at which visitors are always made welcome, or simply give Barry a buzz on 966 731 033. Why not come and join us for a game at a greatly reduced green fee and consider joining the longest established society in the area? Photograph: Some of the Texas Scramble prize-winners.
Nearest the pin in Gold was Colin Pepperday. Nearest the pin in Silver was Tony McMillan. Longest drive in Gold was Terry Rogers. Longest drive in Silver was Tony McMillan. Thanks to everyone, and the fantastic weather, for a contributing to a great day. Our next game is at Alenda on 21st Feb at 9:50 1st tee time. Please be at the course 1 hour before 1st tee time. The following week is our 2 day trip to Benidorm. Breakfast at Fairwayz is at 8:30 before travelling to The golf course. New members and guests always welcome, please call Tony on 966785781 for more information. Thanks, Steve Lawrence.
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Wednesday 13th Feb 2013 at Font De LLop We were a bit light on the ground for our trip to Font De LLop 14 members were able to play but get well to those of us who had to call off due to sickness, mind you they will be glad they did not play because from all accounts the wind was blowing a hoolie on Wednesday at Font De LLop, the course was in good condition it was only the wind that stopped the players from getting good scores, Tony patterson learnt to-day not to be in front of any one teeing off even if he was to one side he still had his knuckles cracked, on Hole 3 Paul Flanaghan fluffed his tee shot, he got as far as the ladies tee, he then took an iron off here and proceeded to hit a worm killer, after that evey shot to the hole was a duff.
Eurogolf
14 February. This week’s competition was an individual Stableford, with a slight twist. In honour of Valentines Day, we had a hidden partners draw. From a field of 68 players, 4 pairings scored 63 points, so the final results were decided on count back. In the event, the back 9 scores were quite diverse and resulted in a win for Nico Baken and Phyllis Venables (again!). The tension in the clubhouse was electric as the team names were drawn from the hat and few high scorers were deflated when they were drawn out with lower scoring players, but the luck of the draw sometimes results in disappointment! Full Results. 1st . Nico Baken & Phyllis Venables. 2nd. Gordy White & Colin Hobden. 3rd. Ann Duff & Jan Shorely. Nearest The pins. 5th, Stan Low, 11th, Tom Hull, 15th David Gregson, 17th Tony
Results First Place Charlie Wallace 29 pts Second Place Tony Patterson 26 pts Third place Victor Dew 25 pts Gold Div Nearest the Pin Hole 8 John king Nearest the Pin in 3 shots Hole 15 Vic Dew Silver Div Nearest the pin in 2 shots Hole 17 Les Lindores The Roy Val Furness Our as usual go to Anita & David at Quesada Country Club for the refreshments on our return to the club as always very welcome, our next members meeting is on Tuesday 5th March at QCC 10.30am our next game is at Alicante for the Alex Starkey Trophy. Reported by Pam Martin Stanley. Football Draw. Joe Ogden, Paul Manning, Alan Marshall, Gordon White. Toff’s Results. Gold. 1st Tony Hitt, 35. 2nd Roger Richings, 34. 3rd Bill Martin 32. Silver 1st Colin Hobden, 30 . 2nd Tony Stanley, 30. 3rd Alan Venables 29. Bronze. 1st Joe Ogden, 36. 2nd Chris Stanley, 34. 3rd Morag Turner, 32. Nearest The pins. 5th. Bruce Gordon, 11th Ian Stewart, 15th Tony Hitt, 17th David Gregson. Best front 9, Jan Shorely 20, Best Back 9, Stan Low 18. Football Draw. Tony Stanley x2, Ken Brett and Phyllis Venables.
Mazarron FC 2 Nuestro Abaran CF 2
Mazarron came storming back to earn a point after going two goals down. Abaran bossed the early stages although Panocha had a point blank header from 5 metres well saved by the Abaran keeper on 6 minutes. A minute later Abaran took the lead when, following good work down the left, Emilio’s well hit shot was deflected past Ikea in the Mazarron goal. Abraran continued to attack and Mazarron’s only other chances in the first half both fell to Jose Ruben, firstly when his effort was cleared off the line and then on 39 minutes when he raced clear only to shoot tamely at the Abaran keeper. Abaran obviously recognised Ruben’s threat as he was pushed, kicked and elbowed by their centre half at every opportunity during the first half. Abaran increased their lead three minutes into the second half when a close range shot was well saved by Iker but the Mazarron keeperwas helpless when Nicolas hammered home the rebound. Jose Ruben was booked in the 49th minute when he retaliated to further rough treatment as Mazarron began to get on top. In the 57th minute the home team pulled a goal back when Barrachina scored from close range. Mazarron were now playing some good football which saw Barrachina shoot wide and a header from Ruben saved by the Abaran keeper. Mazarron had another good
chance on 75 minutes when, following a corner, around 16 players were involved in a free for all in the Abaran penalty area but the ball was eventually cleared. Shortly afterwards, substitute Pollo was felled in the area but the Referee turned down the appeals for a penalty. The Referee was beginning to lose the plot by now and denied Mazarron several blatant free kicks and another penalty appeal. However, in the 86th minute, Mazarron levelled the scores when excellent work by Ruben, who took on four Abaran defenders, saw Barrachina’s goal bound shot being turned home by Cecilio. Mazarron’s keeper Iker was booked for no apparent reason and the game ended in uproar when Jose Ruben was felled in the penalty area by the Abaran centre half, who appeared to kick Ruben in the face, after the ball had been cleared. The incident was spotted by the linesman and the Abaran defender shown a red card but, amazingly, no penalty was awarded. Team: Jose Iker, Perico,(Diego snr) Pepelu, Baeza, Jose Ruben, Santi, Cecilio, (Jose), Victor (cpt), Panocha, Fran,(Pollo) Barrachina. Man of the Match: Jose Ruben Mazarron are at home again this Sunday, 24th February against Alquerias F.B, kick off 4.30 pm. Admission is just 4€ with juveniles free.
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