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arrests made for theft & slaughter of pigs

Two men have been arrested, charged with the theft and slaughter in situ of 134 pigs in the Provinces of Almería and Murcia. The investigation began early last November by the Guardia Civil, as part of operación ‘Pietrain’ and has resulted in the arrest of M.R.B., 22 years old, D.T., 44, and F.G.D., 24, all residents of Roquetas de Mar, on the charges of robbery with violence. The Guardia Civil began investigations as a result of a theft on a farm in Huércal Overa where a forced access was made and one pig taken while another was left badly wounded and subsequently had to be euthanized. On 19 December, the Guardia Civil stopped and searched a vehicle with 3 occupants. They discovered six slaughtered pigs, two bottles full of diesel, a bloody knife, a piece of hose and a funnel. The officers immediately suspected that these were associated with some criminal act and might be related to the ongoing investigation; the officers seized the items and interviewed the occupants. After checking the origin of the animals through their ear tags, the officers verified that they were the same animals that had been taken from a farm in Huércal Overa which had suffered the theft of eight pigs and some diesel the previous night. Further investigations by the officers brought to light similar crimes committed during November in the Bajo Almanzora and Alto Guadaletín with identical modus operandi. Further arrests have not been ruled out. The arrested men have an extensive criminal history, with more than 30 arrests each.

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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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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

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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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

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.

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

New ‘transparency law’ to stem political corruption Severe penalties for politicians who fail to comply

Sport 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. 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 topups from former treasurer and senator, Luis Bárcenas, who is currently under arrest for this and alleged moneylaundering offences relating to multi-million-euro accounts held in Swiss banks.

Louvre Museum Returns Nazi-looted Artwork

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Pope Benedict Hints He Will Retire Into Seclusion

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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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Spain Protests Over Healthcare Funding Cuts & Privatisation

THOUSANDS of people took to the streets of at least 15 Spanish cities last weekend to protest over cutbacks in the health service and plans to privatise the system in various parts of the country. Dubbed the marea blanca (‘white wave’) as so many medical workers turned out in their white coats, Think Spain reported that the protests filled the streets of Cádiz, Valencia, Murcia, Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Palma de Mallorca and Ourense, among many others. A gathering at the Cibeles roundabout opposite the Bank of Spain in Madrid took place at noon, and different groups of people set off at the same time from each of the city’s 27 hospitals, ending up in the Puerta del Sol square. They chanted, “Less Eurovegas and More Nurses!”; “People of Madrid, Get to your Feet” and “We don’t want to pay your debt with healthcare and education!” Once at the end of the march, a spokesperson read a manifesto saying, ‘healthcare is a basic public right’ and stated that those present were ‘not going to allow anyone to turn healthcare, the people or medical workers into a business enterprise’. An estimated 50,000 people – although the police said it was 8,000 – turned out in Barcelona, chanting, ‘health has no price’, ‘health should not be messed around with’ and ‘enough cutbacks’. So far, as we go to press, no incidents or arrests have been reported.

Iberia five-day strike grounds 1,220 planes

Iberia airline staff commenced a fiveday strike from Monday morning, the longest in the history of the company, after negotiation efforts between workers and bosses failed. Ground staff and cabin crew will join the strike, which will continue until and including February 22 and which is the first of a series of five-day pickets announced by employees. Unfortunately for travellers, at least another two continuous Monday-toFriday strikes are planned before the end of March. Delays could also affect those using other airlines as luggage-handling staff who work for Iberia and also for up to 120 other companies will down tools; the worst-affected, aside from the main Iberia flights, will be those run by the company’s affiliates Iberia Express, Air Nostrum and Vueling. Over 1,220 flights run by Iberia, Air Nostrum, Iberia

Express and Vueling will be cancelled this week, of which 96 are Vueling routes, 415 Iberia and around 350 each of the other two.

Already, as we went to press, 226 flights due to depart on Monday had been cancelled. Other airlines which run flights jointly with Iberia – long-haul trips which involve at least one connecting flight – have warned their customers of possible delays and cancellations, as have those whose routes may be altered due to the lack of Iberia planes taking off, such as journeys run by the German airline Lufthansa. Iberia management has so far been able to find alternative flights for 85% of passengers, or 60,000 fliers, but this still leaves 10,000 customers grounded who have had to be given a refund instead.

A contingency plan had already been put in place by the airline amid strike threats, which included ‘emergency’ seats on other flights run by the alliance Oneworld, the company resulting from the Iberia-British Airways merger, and with eight other airlines. Minister of public works Ana Pastor has been in talks with both the unions and the company, but as yet no consensus has been found. Iberia intends to make nearly a fifth of its staff redundant – over 3,800 staff members – and has rejected the pilot union’s proposals for increasing productivity and cutting costs without sacrificing jobs, including the pilots themselves volunteering to take a 26per-cent pay cut. The airline will lose around 10 million euros a day for each day the strike is on.

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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

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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.

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

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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

personal wellness

This column has been brought to you by Personal Wellness Practitioner, Drew Ryder B.SC. Psych. Hons, IIHHT, ThAT, MAAMET, an experienced practitioner of EFT and other disciplines. www.drewryder.com

Is it just pampering; or are there therapeutic benefits to massage? Massage seems to have developed a reputation as a selfindulgent treat for people who love pampering. However, massage as an extremely beneficial healing tool has been around for thousands of years in many cultures. Touching is a natural human reaction to pain and stress, as well as for conveying compassion and support. To explain let me ask you, “What did you do the last time you bumped your head or had a sore leg? “ I would hazard a guess and say you ‘rubbed it’, correct? Our early ancestors, who were not privy to the massive array of medicines that are around today, did exactly the same. Indeed, watch a small child when he/she falls over, it instinctively rubs himself were he/she hurts. Throughout time and throughout cultures across the world, healers have instinctually and independently devised a wide range of therapeutic techniques using touch. A lot are still in use today, and not without reason. Scientific proof of the benefits of massage or bodywork as it is often called, is widely available; with benefits ranging from treating chronic diseases and injuries to alleviating the growing tensions of our increasingly fast and modern lifestyles. A massage does more than just relax your body and mind. During a massage specific physiological and psychological changes occur. Consider stress, a condition we are all familiar with. Stress manifests in many ways and experts estimate that 80% - 90% of disease is stress related. Massage and bodywork not only helps to reduce that figure – it also helps us to relax. Not only that, the physical changes that massage brings to our body can have a positive effect in many areas of our life. As well as aiding and increasing relaxation, massage is known to decreasing anxiety, lower blood pressure, increase circulation, increase concentration, improve recovery from injury, and enhance sleep quality. Moreover, it reduces tiredness and

healthy you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Making the effort to budget time and money for massage at consistent intervals is a genuine investment in your health. We live in an age of technical and, at times, impersonal medicine. As a society, we are touch deprived and this can lead to disease or emotional dysfunction. Massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach to wellness based on the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Evidence is showing that the more massage you can allow yourself, the better you’ll feel. So what exactly are the benefits to receiving regular massage and/ or bodywork treatments? Below are just some of the areas that regular massage can be beneficial: • Increased circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs. • Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body’s natural defence system, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer. • Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body’s largest organ - the skin. • Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles • Reduces spasms and cramping • Increases joint flexibility. • Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of an athlete at any level. • Releases endorphins - the body’s natural painkiller - and is being used in chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain. • Reduces post-surgery adhesions and oedema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred. • Improves range-of-motion and decreases discomfort for

promotes energy to handle stressful situations. Massage is a perfect elixir for good health, and not only that, it also integrates the body and the mind. It does this by producing an almost meditative state or heightened state of awareness of living in the present moment. Furthermore, it provides emotional and spiritual balance, bringing with it true relaxation and peace. Additionally, research has shown that the benefits of massage can be doubled if they are had regularly.Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how

patients with low back pain. • Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases the need for medication. • Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic as the list above demonstrates. Consider massage appointments as a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

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If you require any further information or would like to see how massage can benefit you, please do not hesitate to call me on 968978876, 660326194 or send me an email to info@drewryder.com

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

€550 P/W

Los solanas Long Let €600 + bills PCM Ref No: 0123

TOTANA Ref No: 0000

• 3 bed/2 bath Monsora villa. • 8m x 4m private pool. • Furnished & equipped to high standard • Close to Sensol Golf Club & Spa Hotel.

• 2 bedroom/2 bathroom finca.

• 3 bedroom log cabin.

• Set in orange groves.

• Fantastic Rural setting

• 5m x 5m private pool

• Massive swimming pool

• Bespoke BBQ area with log oven.

• Fully furnished & equipped

Casas del Aljibe Long Let €450 + bills Ref No: 0135

Camposol a Long Let €395+ bills PCM Ref No: 0134

Camposol A Holiday Lets From €900 P/W Ref No: 0119

Holiday Lets From

Ref No: 0087

• 2 bedroom finca. • Great rural hamlet location. • Separate garden with plunge pool. • Bespoke country kitchen.

• 5 bedroom villa can sleep 14.

• Plus 1 bedroom/bathroom/kitchen.

• Close to facilities on A Sect.

• Close to all amenities.

• 10m x 5m swimming pool.

• Access to communal pool.

• Ideal for 2 families or ext family.

Villas & fincas for long term rental urgently required

paramount resort

villa rentals

Your choice your holiday your way

www.paramountresortvillarentals.com

(0034) 608 631 700

Totana

€219,950 + Tax

Camposol upper C

€61,000 + Tax

Camposol D Long Let €650 + bills PCM Ref No: 133

Long Let €600 PCM

• 2 bedroom Fiesta style villa.

•3 bedroom / 2 bathroom Cibeles style villa. • 10m x 5m private pool. • Oil fired central heating & log burner. • Well presented with many extras. Camposol D

Holiday Lets From

€750 P/W

Ref No: 0126

• 4 bed/4 bathroom Ext Neptuno villa. • Glazed in front terrace. • 10m x 5m pool. • Ideal for large families.

Sensol golf villa sales Your dream your future your way

www.sensolgolfvillasales.com

(0034) 671 188 808

CONDADO De ALHAMA €53,950 + Tax

camposol Sector D

€110,995 + Tax

Ref No: 0021

Ref No: 0123

Ref No: 0114

Ref No: 0068

• 4 bedroom/3 bathroom villa.

• 2 bedroom Rebecca style villa.

• Large plot in sort after area.

• Part glazed elevated front terrace.

• Oil fired central heating throughout.

• Close to Sensol Golf Club.

• Must be viewed to appreciate value.

• To be sold fully furnished.

• 2 bedroom ground floor apartment. • AC & many extras. • Garden terrace overlooks 12th Fairway. • Communal pools & children play areas.

• 3 bed/3 bath Neptuno style villa. • On 250sqm plot. • Large wooden deck area. • To be sold fully furnished.

BOLNUEVO

Country club

€119,950 + Tax

€99,950 + Tax

camposol Lower c

€75,000 + Tax

Puerto de Mazarron €119,000 + Tax

Ref No: 0115

Ref No: 0098

Ref No: 0065

Ref No: 0011

• 2 bedroom ground floor apartment.

• 2 bedroom villa with country outlook.

• Amazing sea views.

• Hot & cold AC units in all rooms.

• Metres from large communal pool.

• Beautiful gardens & shaded areas.

• To be sold fully furnished.

• Fantastic value at this price.

• 2 bedroom Rebecca style villa. • Front line with amazing views. •F ully modernised with glazed front terrace. • Jacuzzi & many extras.

•F irst floor 4 bedroom/2 bathroom apartment. • Just 30m from paseo & beach. • Block has lift & disabled access. • Great sea views.

Many more can be seen on our websites office spain (0034)

968 970 614

office Uk (0044)

1733 592 002

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

COMPLETE HOLIDAY CARE MOJACAR PLAYA

The cost of dying has got more Expensive – Or has it??

IVA (vat) is now charged at 21% on all Funerals - making the Cost of an average Funeral in Spain in the region of €4850 etc. With an Iberian Funeral Plan you fix the cost of the funeral at today’s price and it is fixed forever, irrespective of how much funeral expenses rise in the future. With guaranteed Plan prices starting from just 3390€. Do you need to look elsewhere for total peace of mind?

Just look at the facts: • Iberian have the best plans and plan benefits at the best price • Iberian plans are the only genuine interest free plans if you wish to pay by instalments • Iberian do not charge you an additional administration fee • Iberian do not have any deferred or final settlement payments at the end of the instalment term • Iberian Funeral Plans are fully transferrable to the UK • Iberian Funeral Plans cover you throughout the EU and can assist worldwide.

With prices starting at just 3,390€ and IVA FREE - less does equal more. Therefore it makes so much sense to protect your loved ones by investing in a guaranteed funeral plan from Iberian.

Visit www.iberianfuneralplans.com

952 595

or simply contact our offices on 691 (Malaga) / 965 993 498 (Benijofar-Alicante) / 951 203 994 (Nerja)

Also located in The UK, Portugal, Canary Islands and Balearics

British Bedding

In Spain

• Pillows, Protectors, Quilts & Toppers • Quilt Covers, Bedspreads & Blankets • Sheets, Valances & Pillowcases • Towels, Bath Mats & Shower Curtains

• Curtains, Voiles & Blinds • Poles, Track & Accessories • Throws, Runners, Rugs, Cushions • Tablecloths, Placemats, Coasters & Trays

Closer than you think the

yorkshire linen co.

home furnishing specialists

Free parking above Mercadona, opposite Lidl Monday to Friday 10.00 - 18.00, Saturday 10.00 - 14.00 Centro Comercial la Pirámide, Puerto de Mazarrón, Murcia Call: 968 595 946 / 650 857 619 www.yorkshirelinen.com - ylcmazarron@hotmail.com

RENTALS - SALES -MANAGEMENT - MAINTENANCE “We have 15 years experience of the local coastal property market, with an unrivalled reputation for reliable, honest advice and value for money and we urgently need more properties to sell and rent. We believe our commission charges are unbeatable - check us out.”

Ref:LA/GK - 3 bed 1st fl. apt, 3 pools & Ref: PM/JC - Fantastic 1 bed apt, large gardens. 300m to beach, tennis, lift terrace with sea views, a/c, pool

MOJACAR - new €134,950

MOJACAR - REDUCED €79,000

Ref: IA/MA Front line 3 bed apt, a/c, terrace, sea views, modernised, pool

Ref: OA/HM Stunning 2 bed, 2 bath apart. on Oasis de Mar, solaruim, pool

MOJACAR - reduced €99,500

MOJACAR - NEW €169,950

Prices stated are fixed for 7 days mininum from the time of going to press, include sales commission and exclude taxes and notary or other legal charges and fees

Paseo del Mediterraneo 19, Mojacar Playa, Almeria (near the Hotel Best Indalo)

Tel: 950 478 612 / 610 808 631 

info@almeriaholidays.com

www.almeriaholidays.com

Introducing T. J Carpentry

& HARLEQUIN KITCHENS

Our bespoke kitchen cabinets are manufactured and pre-assembled in our workshop using 18mm colour matched board with a solid back panel. As well as our huge range of kitchen door colours and styles we have a huge range of worktops, solid wooden block, granite and laminate are available. As with all our products our kitchen units can be manufactured any size. All cabinets, as well as any storage options are purpose made to your requirements.We have no set size doors widths or heights.

We offer a design, manufacture & installation service with an exceptional level of quality & service at a competitive price. We are able to design, manufacture & install a huge range of kitchen furniture to suit your needs, with over 700 door styles & colour combinations we cater for every taste tradition to modern. We have something for everyone & remember its manufactured to your requirements.

For a FREE home measure & quotation please contact Trevor on

619 584 405

Based in Albox, but will cover all areas

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

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

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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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

women in business... women in business... women in business... women in business... women in business... women in business...

Fabulous clothing & accessories sizes 8 - 28 catered for

677 542 931

www.donnasboutique.es find us on

Donna’s boutique

DONNA’S BOUTIQUE in Turre, which opened to the public in June 2012, has gone from strength to strength and offers a fabulous collection of quality and affordable clothing, all from the UK, catering for sizes 8 – 28. The range is constantly being updated and Donna’s eye for fashion makes every lady feel good in their outfit; that’s why her customers come back time after time There are accessories too, including sparkly costume jewellery, hats, handbags & shoes - all at excellent prices!! And, if you can’t get to the shop, the shop will come to you as Donna operates a delivery service!

Why not host a private party to enjoy shopping in your own home? (minimum 10 persons) Donna also has a Facebook page entitled ‘Donna´s Boutique’ - hit the like button and you’ll be entered into monthly competitions and kept updated on ‘What’s New’. Donna is an official supplier of Lipsy clothing as from March and has recently secured a contract to supply a brand new affordable clothing range that specialises in fashion for the more curvaceous lady in sizes 16 – 28.

So watch this space! Tel 677 542 931.

woodhouse boarding kennels & cattery

You may already know Tracey and her husband Bob from the television programme Living the Dream.

Small friendly kennels 24hr vets service pet transporting arranged

WOODHOUSE BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY

arboleas

welcome to view now ministry approved

Tracy 650 211 952 Having worked for one of the most successful estate agents in the area, Jules set up iCasa in 2011 to cater specifically for the sale and purchase of equestrian and country properties.

large country properties needed

in the Los Velez area

genuine clients waiting to view

info@icasaspain.com

They are now running

in Los Uteras which is situated just 15 minutes away from Arboleas. Tracey has been running the kennels here for 6 years and also is heavily involved with the dog charities in the area. Woodhouse kennels is fully legal and Ministry approved with a 24 hours veterinary service available. Tracey and Bob also offer a pet transporting service.

As a horse owner she understands the very specific needs and requirements when looking to buy somewhere for you and your horse. As one of the only specialist equestrian property agents in Andalucia, iCasa has been able to establish links reaching right across the region as far as Cadiz and stretching up to Alicante. If you are a private seller or an agent wanting help selling your equestrian property or are looking to buy your dream finca in Andalucia please email

Jules on info@icasaspain.com

NULINE WITH THE TWINS

Have you considered dancing as an alternative keep fit routine that will also improve your memory skills? Then why not try modern day Linedance.

We offer a wide range of high and low impact dances that include a variety of ballroom rhythms, Night Club Two, Waltz, Latin and Jazz, and an extensive library of singers to dance along with from Dolly Parton to the Killers. Anyone answering this ad will get a free trial run.

Newcomers Workshops Tuesday & Friday La Para Turre 7.00 p.m

NULINE is a great way to learn dance whilst enjoying a low

impact physical and mental workout. NULINE offers a method of teaching routines danced to all genres of music: Latin, Waltz, Jazz, Pop, Celtic and Country so that you can learn more advanced steps at an early stage. NULINE is suitable for all ages, no partner required.

Mob: 660 472 334 / 617 712 036

thetwins@nulinedance.com Instructors of NULINE

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

lo ok g o o d feel grea T

a spoonful of sugar

family sugar remedy tested for healing people’s wounds A nurse is researching whether an old family remedy using sugar to heal wounds does actually work. Moses Murandu, from Zimbabwe, grew up watching his father use granulated sugar to treat wounds. Sugar is thought to draw water away from wounds and prevent bacteria from multiplying. Early results from a trial on 35 hospital patients in Birmingham are encouraging, but more research is needed. One of the patients who received sugar treatment on a wound was 62-year-old Alan Bayliss from Birmingham. He had undergone an above-the knee amputation on his right leg at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham and, as part of the surgery, a vein was removed from his left leg leaving a wound which would not heal properly. Murandu, who is studying for a doctorate at Birmingham University, was contacted and asked to treat the wound with sugar. Mr Bayliss said: “It has been revolutionary. The actual wound was very deep - it was almost as big as my finger. “When Moses first did the dressing he almost used the whole pot of sugar, but two weeks later he only needed to use four or five teaspoons. “I am very pleased indeed. I feel that it has speeded up my recovery a lot, and it has been a positive step forward. I was a little sceptical at first but once I saw the sugar in operation and how much it was drawing the wound out, I was impressed.”

The randomised control trial at three West Midlands hospitals is only half way through. So far 35 patients have been treated with sugar treatment. Murandu, a senior lecturer in adult nursing at the University of Wolverhampton, said he was very pleased by the results. “I believe in the sugar and the nurses and doctors who see the effects are beginning to believe in it too.” The treatment is thought to work because applying sugar to a wound draws the water away, thereby starving the bacteria of what it needs to grow. This prevents the bacteria from multiplying and they die. Staff nurse Jonathan Janneman said the treatment had boosted the patient’s morale too. “He could see the cavity in his leg as well as having been unwell and through operations. But the sugar has given him something to hold on to. “It is amazing that something as simple as sugar has given him a morale boost.”

50% OFF all Lenses including varifocals • Free Hearing Test • Digital Hearing Aids • Various Models & Colours • Adjustments, Parts & Repairs • Moulds & Batteries • Pensioners - 30% OFF

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

632

no need to return to the uk for your glasses we have it covered

IVA ON SUNGLASSES has increased to 21% but our prices are stayIng the same!

Huercal - Overa

lidl

hospital

salas opticos

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.

Starts 7th March

Avda. Guillermo Reyna

mercadona

Common cold

Abigaile

30% discount For the over 60’s

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.

elax evive

FOR ONLY

Designer Sunglasses

and absolutely brilliant tomorrow

Tension headache

30 Daily Lenses 18.90€

feel better today!

Tel: 950 135 081 salasopticos@Yahoo.es

ejuvenate retreat elax El Cucador

New Therapist

Abigaile is a fully-qualified beauty & holistic massage therapist and will be offering a full range 779 082 of treatments including Hopi-Ear Candling

Advanced back, face & scalp only treatment 20€

Powerful stress releasing treatment, works on deep seated tension & restores balance to vital energy points. Initial deep cleansing back exfoliation followed by back massage, facial includes massage ,application of intensive face mask & Oriental head massage help clear the mind, calm the spirit & ease tension. Result is rehydrated, nourished & soothed skin combined with a sense of deep relaxation.

Holistic Massage

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

Reflexolgy with UK qualified therapist Melissa

1h session or discounts for a course of 6. Melissa is only working on Saturdays 9.30 - 5pm throughout February, March & April

626 144 680

february offers

Eyebrow Wax &Tint Eyelash Tint

14€

Beauty Therapy

urUK fully-qualified therapists O are available Wednesday & Thursday 9am to 1.30pm to pamper you… We offer a full range of Facials plus Waxing, Tinting, Manicure, Pedicure or a set of Gelish Nails from 15€!

sandra

Mini Facial plus a full Manicure

25€

A Set of Gelish Nails 15€ Sandra works on Wed & Thurs 9.30 - 1pm

661 858 949

We are a self-contained private suite of rooms on the right hand side of La Vida Cucador, with its own entrance, plus disabled access and good parking If you are a fully-qualified therapist and want to know more about us or to book a room, email retreatcucador@gmail.com Become a friend on Facebook & see our monthly Special Offers!

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

email editor@soltimes.com with your beauty & health tips

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!

hair & beauty

Addsome Hollywood Glamour

withsmooth locks and shaped eyebrows Donna would like to welcome Roz formerly of the barberia to the team        Mondayspecialoffers

Ladies Cut only 8.50€ - Gents Cut only 6.50€ N o t i n c o n j u n cti o n w ith a n y o ther o f f er

Mon:9.30am-3pmTue-Fri:9.30am-5pmSat:10am-2pm

950 930 167 or 628 669 456 located opposite Pricebusters

Osteopath Naturopath Enrique Arias, N.D, D.O

Tel. 629 289 385

for info and appointments

Health Care For Adults and Children • Emergency Home Visits • English • Spanish • French • German • 20 Year’s Serving the community

UK Registered - Treating

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

WE HAVE OVER 42,000 PEOPLE READING THE SOL TIMES EVERY WEEK... ...PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN THEIR HANDS! CALL PAULETTE ON

950 121 936

GirasolGymnasticsClub DO YOU OFFER HEALTH & BEAUTY SERVICES?

Do you want your child to burn off some energy and keep fit? Would you like your child to participate in a sport in a disciplined and fun environment? OR would you just like an hours rest? If so, then bring them along to Girasol Gymnastics Club, where they can also work to achieve Proficiency Awards (also known as BAGA badges) For further information call Claire on 639089170 or Stacey 678207205 Girasol Health Shop, Calle Malaga Albox, discount for (on the same road as Puppy Rescue) siblings

4.00€

kim clark benefits consultancy

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

Dra Monica Algañaraz –has over 40 years experience in physiotherapy and osteopathic treatment. General postural assessment and holistic health checks available English spoken

Tel: 695 355 381 Olula Del Rio

• 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

JAX

Hair&Beauty Formerly J.D. Hair Design

look good, feel good

with our full range of treatments including Jenny from •HAIRDRESSING

•BEAUTY �manicures �pedicures �hopi ear �candling �theraputic hot wax inc massage & exfoliation

Affordable Prices Telephone: 645 560 367

Albox Rambla

Mirador Toni’s Bar

JAX

El Cordobes

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Fair Trade Fortnight Fairtrade is a tool for development that ensures disadvantaged farmers and workers in developing countries get a better deal through the use of the international FAIRTRADE Mark. Every year they run a campaign to raise awareness of the number of fair trade products available - Fair Trade Fortnight!

25 February – 10 Mar

This Fairtrade Fortnight (25 February - 10 March) it’s time to go further to look after the food we love and the people who grow it. Without our support now, farmers and workers in developing countries face an uncertain future. Fairtrade is about making sure some of the most disadvantaged people in the developing world are getting a better deal from trade, through fair prices, sustainable farming practices and community investment. The first Fairtrade products appeared on the shop shelves in the UK in 1994. These were Café Direct coffee, Clipper tea and Green & Black’s Maya Gold chocolate.

Background on Fairtrade: Fairtrade is a strategy for poverty alleviation and sustainable development. Its purpose is to create opportunities for producers and workers who have been economically disadvantaged or marginalized by the conventional trading system. If fair access to markets under better trade conditions would help them to overcome barriers to development, they can join Fairtrade.” Fairtrade is a tool for development that ensures disadvantaged farmers and workers in developing countries get a better deal through the use of the international FAIRTRADE Mark. Fairtrade Labelling was created in the Netherlands in the late 1980s. The Max Havelaar Foundation launched the first Fairtrade consumer guarantee label in 1988 on coffee sourced from Mexico. Here in the UK, the Fairtrade Foundation was established in 1992, with the first products to carry the FAIRTRADE Mark launched in 1994. For a product to display the FAIRTRADE Mark it must meet international Fairtrade standards which are set by the international certification body Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International(FLO). These standards are agreed through a process of research and consultation with key participants in the Fairtrade scheme, including producers themselves, traders, NGOs, academic institutions and labelling organisations such as the Fairtrade Foundation.

DID YOU KNOW...2013 FACTS

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT BUYING FAIRTRADE? www.fairtrade.org.uk/products/retail_products/default.aspx

Wednesday 27th February - from 10am

beauty without surgery Benson with Dr. Helena Radies se Permanent

Anti Frown Treatment, Juvederm, make-up, Fillers, Permanent make-up for eyes and lips Helena Benson qualified as a medical doctor at the First Medical Academy in Moscow in 1986. In 1989 Helena came to England. During the 1990’s she worked at Harley Street and from her clinic in North London. She has been practicing natural herbs, iridology and nutrition. In the late 90’s she became involved in medical aesthetics, and now treats patients across the United Kingdom, Ireland and Spain. Helena is the founder of the London School of Permanent Make-up, one of the leading schools in the UK.

Anti Frown treatment Juvederm, Radiesse Permanent make-up available on the day. Improving your skin or fixing the line may not necessarily fix your life., but wouldn’t it be nice to get back what you thought you might have lost forever?

Dr Benson specializes in aesthetic medicine and facial rejuvenation, not requiring cosmetic surgery, or so called ‘lunchtime cosmetics’.Treatments for wrinkles and skin peels can become part of your grooming routine, like going to the hairdresser, doing your nails or even buying new clothes.The best modern cosmetics come in syringes, not jars!

And as Oscar Wilde said “It is only shallow people who don’t judge by first impressions”.

If you can look good and feel great about it, then why not do it? A desire to improve your appearance is not about vanity. It’s about confidence and your self-esteem.

Helena Benson will be at rretreat, Cucador on

Wednesday 27th February Call 647 379 878 to book your appointment or email: retreatcucador@gmail.com for more information

Rretreat (next to La Vida) Cucador

to book your appointment call 647 379 878 or email: retreatcucador@gmail.com for more information

see la vida advert on page 35 for directions

The Fairtrade system currently works with 1.24 million people - farmers and workers - across more than 66 developing countries In the UK, sales of Fairtrade products in 2011 reached £1.32 billion – a 12 per cent increase on the previous year Fairtrade products are now sold in more than 120 countries 75 per cent of all Fairtrade producers are smallholder farmers 78 per cent of consumers recognise the FAIRTRADE Mark Last year, farmers and workers from some of the world’s poorest countries invested €65 million in Fairtrade Premium in business, social and environmental projects in their communities There are now 991 Fairtrade producer organisations worldwide More than 6.5 million litres of Fairtrade wine was enjoyed in 2011 One in every three bananas sold in the UK is Fairtrade Fairtrade accounts for 10 per cent of all tea sold in the UK Just over 8 per cent of all roast and ground retail coffee is Fairtrade certified 9,924 tonnes of Fairtrade hot chocolate was drunk in the UK in 2011 – that’s about 1.5 million of us sitting down to a cup of hot chocolate every day Chichester Cathedral became the world’s first public building to display Fairtrade and Fairmined certified gold in 2011. A 3ft cockerel was gilded in Fairtrade certified gold and positioned atop the 270ft Cathedral spire Fairtrade is a thriving and growing campaign movement with more than 550 Fairtrade Towns, almost 900 Fairtrade Schools and 170 Fairtrade Universities, and more than 7,000 Fairtrade Faith Groups. Thousands of people across the UK alone will Go Further this Fairtrade Fortnight by helping to raise awareness through events, activities and buying Fairtrade products. Go Online NOW and donate, buy Fair Trade and sign the petition!

http://step.fairtrade.org.uk

www.soltimes.com

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.”

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.

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

http://cookinandlookin.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/dsc00742.jpg

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 FEBRUARY 2013

property group

Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria

Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563

www.veritashomes.co.uk info@veritashomes.co.uk You can find us on Huerta Nueva

€75,000

2 bed / 2 bath ground floor Apartment with private plot of 180 m². Communal Pool. Fully furnished. Ref. 1497

Mojacar Playa

€90,000

2 bed / 2 bath Apartment with sea views within 300 meters to promenade. Terrace: 18,20 m². Communal pool. Ref. 1070

Villaricos reduced

€109,950

2 bed / 2 bath fully furnished pretty linked Bungalow with private plot of 135 m² within 200 meters to beach. Communal pool. Ref. 1006

hUERCAL oVERA reduced

€174,950

Mojacar playa

€75,000

Villaricos

€85,000

2 bed / 2 bath charming end of terrace Townhouse with golf and mountains views. Terrace & solarium. Ref. 1448

2 bed / 2 bath Apartment with underground private parking place & store room within 50 meters to the promenade. Lift. Ref. 1171

El Largo reduced

mojacar playa

Mojacar Playa reduced

€94,950

4 bed / 3 bath large Townhouse with garage around 10 min. to coast and Desert Springs Golf. Build 164 m². Ref. 1165

lA aLFOQUIA reduced

€125,000

€100,000

3 bed / 2 bath south facing Apartment with sea views near beach. Terrace: 19 m². Underground private parking place. Ref. 1291

mOJACAR pLAYA

€149,000

€109,950

2 bed / 1 bath fully furnished Apartment within 200 meters to beach with underground private parking. Communal pool. Ref. 1395

aRBOLEAS reduced

€149,950

2 bed / 2 bath detached Villa on plot of 346 m². Utility area, separate office, solarium & jacuzzi. Air con & wood burner. Ref. 1016

2 bed / 2 bath south facing Townhouse within walking distance to beach & amenities. Sea views. Communal pool. Ref. 1235

3 bed / 2 bath Villa with pool on plot of 637 m² in Los Huevanillas. Build 138 m². Fully fitted kitchen. Store room. Ref. 1503

mojacar playa reduced

Mojacar Playa reduced

€190,000

3 bed / 2 bath spacious Townhouse with private garage within 200 m to beach. Small gated community with pool. Ref 1483

mOJACAR pLAYA reduced

mojacar playa reduced

3 bed / 2 bath front line golf Villa with massive garage & 1 bed / 1 bath annex in Marina de la Torre. Plot 225 m². Ref 1479

€80,000

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

4 bed / 2 bath Villa with pool on walled plot of 537 m² near hospital & amenities. Utility room. Many extras. Ref. 1027

€299,950

Cortijo Grande reduced

€299,950

3 bed / 2 bath Villa + 2 independents 1 bed / 1 bath Apartments near beach & amenities. Solarium, terraces & pool. Ref 1060

€249,950

3 bed / 3 bath large semi-detached Townhouse on small Moorish style complex with pool. Terraces & solarium with views. Ref 1137

vera

€295,000

3 bed / 2 bath sea facing Villa with garage on plot of 417 m². Terraces, solarium & jacuzzi. Amazing views. Ref 1062

€344,950

3 bed / 2 bath beautiful Villa with pool, landscaped gardens & garage on plot of 10.000 m² within few min. drive to town. Ref 1010

Please visit our office or refer to our website for more “bargains”. Vendors: If you are seriously considering selling your property please visit our office to discuss effective ways of achieving your goal. As per decree 218/2005 the “Documento de Información Abreviada” (D.I.A) for any property sold by Veritas Homes is available at our office.

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Microwaveable Cozy Boots ~ 16.95/18.20€ Make sure your feet stay cozy in the cold with these great new CozyFeet Boots. Just two minutes in a microwave and these furry footwarmers slip on to ensure that your feet remain frost free. We can imagine few better ways of keeping warm than snuggling on the sofa with a mug of hot chocolate and a pair of Cozy Feet Boots keeping your feet from freezing.

Gadgets for keeping cosy!

Slippery Floors?

Dunk Mug with Biscuit Holder 16.12€ Tea is without a doubt the greatest hot beverage ever invented. How do you make your Cuppa even better? Easy, you add biscuits for dunking! What better way to transport your chosen Biscuit and ensure they are handy for dunking than with the Dunk Mug with Biscuit Holder!?

Tel: Martin 659 232 507 martin.freeman@free-sol.com

www.free-sol.com

Cozy Plush Microwavable Bagpuss 12.84€ We all know that Emily loved Bagpuss, but she wasn’t the only one whose heart the little cloth cat stole. This brilliant licensed Bagpuss Microwavable Cosy Plush toy is made in England to the highest standards, and while not having quite the looseness of seams as his television counterpart he remains eminently cuddly, especially once heated in the microwave!

Zoobies Cuddly Plush Animals 27.87€ Heading off on a long journey with small children, or just someone who likes to be comfy and snug all the time? Then you shouldn’t be without a Zoobie. These super soft plush toys triple up as snuggly blankets, and comfy pillows, making them perfect for any and all excursions

please note, prices do not include p&p ALL OF THESE ITEMS ARE AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE ONLINE FOR MORE INFO EMAIL: EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM

Suitable for ceramic tiles, slate, terrazzo, quarry tiles, marble, stone, concrete and more...

Decklid Auto Services

Mazarron, Murcia

Dave The English Mechanic is now based in Mazarron New workshop, computerised diagnostics, pre ITV checks, ITV’s arranged Courtesy drop off service ...always professional and friendly...

WE HAVE MOVED to Avenida de las Moreras (The Old Ford Dealership)

telephone: 626 678 840 email: decklid@hotmail.co.uk

Bulga ria

www.soltimes.com

bistro

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Condado De Alhama Resort

March 2nd Show starts At 8.30pm

Robbie Williams March 16th

(polaris world resort)

Presents BANDITZ 9th MARCH

The Show commences with light dinner music from 8pm, followed by a new concept of ROCK N ROLL BINGO, exclusive to Bistro Bulgaria. Followed by the ever popular Banditz Cabaret Duo, and their famous party sounds to dance the night away. Music from the 60s to present , with a twist of humour, fun, and top entertainment fused with amazing food, a great atmosphere, and hospitality second to none, here at your party venue!!

March 23rd SHOW STARTS AT 8.30PM

BELLA LUNA Show

JOHN LENNON

Starts at 8.30pm

March 30th

1ST YEAR ANIVERSARY A PARTY TO REMEMBER!!!

1 HOUR STAND UP COMIC SHOW 8.00pm FOLLOWED BY THE BEE GEES!!! SHOW STARTS AT 8.30PM

FREE BUS TRANSPORT EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT Outside Mercadona Puerto de Mazarron 7.00pm Mazarron Country Club (outside restaurant) 7.25pm Camposol Sector B Commercial (outside Caixa Bank) 7.45pm

Set 3 Course Menu from 15.00€ (full menu also available)

Or if you don’t fancy food

Then just come along & enjoy a great night of entertainment

Please Reserve For The Bus Reservations please call 968 328 084 www.bistrobulgaria.com bistrobulgaria@hotmail.com

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

property guide....

Fall in House Prices to Accelerate in 2013

According to the latest report by real estate appraisers, Tinsa, the average house price decline accelerated to 13.8% in January, year-on-year, the month in which the tax benefits for home purchase were eliminated. With this latest reduction, the accumulated adjustment in house prices has now reached 35.3% since their maximum values reached in December 2007,

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

O Olive

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TEL: 968 592 679

before the crisis. By area, El Mundo reported that the metropolitan areas experienced the sharpest cuts in January, with a 15.4% decrease in the price of their homes, year-on-year, followed by the municipalities on the Mediterranean coast, with a decline of 14.9%, and the capitals and major cities, with a reduction of 14.2%, completing the list of areas with cuts above the market

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genuine clients waiting to view

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lubrin - 55,000€ Fabulous townhouse in the middle of the village of Lubrin. Two bedrooms, living room and kitchen. plus a small outside space for sitting in the sun.

average. Below the average stood the Balearic and Canary Islands, with a year-on-year decrease of 11.1%, and the rest of the municipalities, with a fall of 12.9%. Tinsa’s data noted that the cumulative drop in prices since December 2007 has now reached 43% on the Mediterranean coast, 38.1% in the capitals and major cities, 37.7% in metropolitan areas, 30.2% in the rest of the municipalities, and 28.9% in the Balearic and Canary Islands. (WWW.KYERO.COM)

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in the Los Velez area info@icasaspain.com

Apartment For Sale on golf course

1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, kitchen with white goods, Nice views of golf course parking, Mojacar approx 7 mins

now only

€39,950

T: 664 291 793 jescott29@hotmail.co.uk

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

Do You Have A Property For Sale?

D L O

3 bed 2 bath detached farmhouse Oria €125,000

3 bed 1 bath fully reformed village house Arboleas €65,000

2 bed 1 bath villa with garage and pool Arboleas €139,000

5 bed 4 bath farmhouse on 3000m plot Albox €175,000

Is it getting the viewings it deserves from your current agent? Is it realistically priced?

If so give us a call urgently. We are a local agent and one of the most pro active advertising on all of the key search portals to reach the maximum level of buyers of property in the area.

WE CAN CAN HELP HELP YOU YOU WE

January has been an exceptionally busy month in terms of sales and we have a large database of Belgian and Dutch clients looking to purchase over the next few months

We urgently urgently require require We

FULLY LEGAL VILLAS WITH SWIMMING POOL TO 160,000 EUROS CHARACTER PROPERTIES, FULL REFORMED TO A GOOD STANDARD AND WITH LAND OR GARDEN AND CLOSE TO AMENITIES In Arboleas, Albox, Cantoria, Huercal Overa and surrounding areas

If you are looking to sell your property then please do get in touch to see how we can help you.

Calida Homes Property Consultancy Tel: 950 430 763 or 697 875 717 www.calidahomespropconsult.com Email: calidahomes@hotmail.com

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

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

Sitara Properties Tel: 966 723 437 or 636 615 716

950 431 855 / 661 143 871 www.spanishestateagent.com

Rentals, Home & Car Insurance

Vera: 2 bed/1 bathroom duplex, 2 pools secure urbanization let furnished 350€ p.c.m

Albox Town: 4 bed, 2 bath Integral garage, fitted kitchen, communal pool, garden & terrace, let furnished 350€ p.c.m

Rental Properties Urgently Required for Waiting Tenants Midway between Santander Bank & Caja Granada Bank

Find us on Avenida Puente, Albox

Caja Granada ↓ Todo Shop

↓

Rambla

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.

Suicide Junction We are HERE

↑

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

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)

Sol Insure

Let find the best policy for you! Providing the best cover at competitive rates

info@bwispain.com

950 472 098 British Family-Run business based just outside the pretty mountain village of partaloa ~ BHS Qualified

New Year Special Monthly Offer

Loan Deals €120 unlimited riding

6 x 1/2 hour lessons for just

50€

• Ride & Lunch to Cerro Gordo’s Bistro 1 Bonita includes: 2 /2 hr Ride & 3 course Lunch 40€pp 1 • /2 hour lesson 12€ • 1 hour treck 20€ • Quad bikes available for hire from 1 hour to a full day • Weekend pony clubs 20€ per child per day or 60€ for the month (pay monthly includes every Saturday in the month & one free Sunday) • (Family discounts offered) • Livery from just 120€ per month

www.rancholuzdelsol.com

Tel: 678 838 547

PAWS A WHILE PET HOTEL

• A home-from-home friendly atmosphere • A full menu to suit all requirements • Pet suites. • 24/7 Veterinary care • Pets play area • Very secure surroundings with ample space & shade • Yours or your pets portrait available

OPEN EVERYDAY: 10am - 12pm & 5pm - 6.30pm

ENGLISH & SPANISH SPEAKING Telephone for prices & details of vaccinations required for stay

DEAN: 696 562 662

Fines, Nr Albox : www.pawsawhilefines.com

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Sundance Spas

Pool Maintenance S.L. Open: Monday - Thursday 9am - 2.30pm & 4pm - 7pm, friday 9am - 2.30pm & 4pm - 6pm Closed Saturday & Sunday

New Year New Sundance Spas

to our showrooms Come along ecial Offers on Genuine Sundance Spas Lots of Sp Also Good Selection of Second Hand Spas

We Purchase Your Old Spa Cash Paid

Up To 50% Off Selected Spas

Mojacar Showroom, Paseo de Mediterraneo, 171

Tel: 950 472 845

www.sundancespas.com â&#x20AC;˘ sundancespas@telefonica.net

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

FOOD & ENTERTAINING...

Cooking classes ‘a boost to healthy diet’ Short cooking classes can have a long-term impact on healthy eating, a study suggests.

Khan doner kebab

eat in or takeaway

meal deals inc fries & drink

menu doner kebab chicken/beef/mixed €5 menu pizza turca chicken/beef/mixed €5.50 menu chicken burger €4.80 menu chicken wings (6 pieces) €4.80 Single DONER KEBAB chicken or beef only €3

open every day 12noon -midnight

avenida Puente (just before the bridge across the rambla) Albox

Tel: 950 104 160 OPEN 7

days a

Questioning of parents who took part in government-funded courses in Scotland showed they ate more fruit and vegetables and fewer ready meals a year later. Participants were also more confident about following a simple recipe. The University of Glasgow researchers said refresher

MENU DEL DIA

4 Courses with Wine & Coffee

Monday to Saturday inclusive - Lunch 1pm - 4pm

Every day a different stew! Lamb, Pork, Fish, Lentils MON: Roast Lamb Shank tues: Roast Pork Loin wed: Roast Pork Knuckle fri: Roast Lamb Shank sat: Roast Lamb Shank & Pork Knuckle SUN: Roast Lamb Shoulder

vegetarian menu available

remained months down the line.

had a measurable effect on people’s diets.

There are numerous l o c a l l y - f u n d e d programmes to improve cooking and nutrition skills around the UK but, until now, there has been little data on any longterm effects.

A year later, 44 of 100 cookery class attendees agreed to be interviewed again and researchers found there was still a significant increase in their confidence in following simple recipes and using basic ingredients.

“It is very encouraging that we have these positive results,” she said.

The study looked at courses lasting between four and eight weeks for parents of pre-school children. Classes included information on budgeting, nutrition and cooking simple meals.

week

LOCAL STEW & ROAST

courses would boost the effects further.

MENU DEL NOCHE

20oz T-BONE STEAK, 16oz BEEF ENTRECOTE 12oz PORK TENDERLOIN, ROASTED LAMB SHANK & SHOULDER, ROASTED PORK KNUCKLE AND MORE

DINNER 7PM-10PM

sunday roast menu del dia 4 courses with bottle of ESTE wine per couple & coffee included: Roast Lamb Shoulder & Pork Knuckle, 12oz Entrecote, 20oz T-Bone, 10oz Pork Tenderloin, Roast Potatoes & Fresh Vegetables Freshly Baked Bread SERVED 1pm - 4pm

Childrens menu available

Booking Recommended

FREE WI-FI

Spanish Speaking 950 430 145 ~ English Speaking 647 730 103 P o l I GONO I n d u s t r i a l A l b o x , N e a r t h e I T V G a r a g e

www.mesondeirene.com

Questionnaires filled in immediately after the courses showed an immediate boost in participants’ confidence in cooking, preparing and trying new foods, researchers reported in the journal Public Health Nutrition. But the researchers were more interested in whether these effects

They also found that participants were eating fewer ready meals than before the courses, and were eating portions of fruit and vegetables daily compared with just a few times a week before. Some of the “confidence scores” in cooking and trying new foods had slipped after a year and the researchers said refresher courses would be useful. Study leader Dr Ada Garcia said that, although the study numbers were small due to difficulties in re-contacting people after a year, the results showed that such programmes

winter

“This suggests that the intervention has benefited participants’ eating habits and health not only in the short-term, but also in the long-term,” she added. Prof Alan Maryon-Davis, former president of the Faculty of Public Health, said more research, including a controlled trial, should be the next step. “Budgets are being cut and local authorities are not going to fund stuff unless its been shown to be effective. But this is pretty encouraging.” He added: “It is particularly important to get these changes happening in young families.” Read the full article at www.bbc.co.uk

667 919 025 Café Bar

warmer menu To include

Homemade Steak Pie, Chips & Gravy; Sausage & mash; Gammon Steak, Chips, Peas & Pineapple

Changes Daily & from only 4€

Every Friday

disco & music from 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s & 00

Saturday 23rd February The SunSpots from 9pm

LA ALFOQUIA, ZURGENA

new Sunday WEDNESDAY NIGHT CURRY 2 Courses €6 lunch menu With Our Fabulous New Chef

only

5€

NEW WINTER WARMER MENU from €4 FISH, CHIPS & PEAS for €5

Available every day

Open Monday - Friday 8am til late Saturday & Sunday 9am til late

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

go online at www.soltimes.com

...FOOD & ENTERTAINING

the ultimate diet carb!

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 Your local dedicated Off Licence

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.’

Valley W ines

We Stock Beer, Port, We stock an extensive range of Sherry, A Minimum leading brands. If you can’t of 50 Red Wines, see your favourites then tell us White Wine & Rose and we will order it for you! Brand-name Spirits & Liqueurs Open Mon-Fri 10-6:30pm & Sat 9:30-6pm Closed Sundays

Asian root konjac. Some nutritionists claim that vegetable extract konjac – also known as Moyu – can stabilise blood-sugar levels and 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

Find us just along from Sophias Arboleas (same building) - go inside entrance to appartments, we are in the left-hand corner

Holland & Barrett and independent food stores and costs £2.55 a packet.

Tel: 662 153 834

However, Tam Fry, from the National Obesity Forum, said: ‘There are nasty side

Mesón de

Irene

STOP ‘N’ SHOP IN YOUR...

Super Corner

Unmissable offer!

ENGLISH SUPERMARKET

Free Bottle

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

ALL YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS AND MORE IN ONE SUPERSTORE!!

TURRE, NEXT TO MESON DEL POBRE

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

OPEN MON-SAT 9:30-6PM & SUN 9:30-1:30PM

showbar & restaurant

The Irish Rover Your No1 Entertainment Venue in Mojacar for All the Family

Grea s e tF m Ti rie d nds YELLOW Goo

STONE BAR

Forthcoming events......

March 1st

Status Quo Tribute Basket Meals Available

17th March

THIS THURSDAY - 21st February - FUN QUIZ starts 8pm Breakfast

served 9 ~ 12

Back by Popular Demand

2€ or 5€

Eagles Tribute

Parties & Special Events

Morgan - Irish Folk Singer Mark Nugent and Tommy McCarthy

Friday 12th April

telephone: 950 473 135

mojacar playa between Lua & Moma Beach Open 10am till late (Closed Mon & Tues)

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 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

Lunches

catered for Ask at bar

12pm~ 2.30pm

Take-away available M o bi l e to p ups @ bar

Daily Specials

free Wi-Fi

4€

see bar

~ opening hours ~ M o n ~ Sat 9~9ish ~ Sun 12pm~7pm

for bookings call PAUL: 634 332 178 Find us in Piedra Amarilla (Formerly The Grapevine) For more information and phone orders call Paul: 634

332 178

ITV CENTRE

← Albox

Fines →

Yellow Stone 1km Piedra Amarilla →

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

OUT & ABOUT

Menu del Dia

Tues - Fri 8.50€ Sat - Sun 10.00€

RESERVATIONS 667 67 15 78 666 55 98 77

restclubtenisalbox@yahoo.es

RESTAURANTE Club de Tenis Albox C/Avda de Almeria 17, 04639, Turre, Almeria, Tel: 950 47 96 46

Restaurante pizzeria

Mari Cruz

Specialising in grilled meats, fish & regional dishes Pizzas & pastas to take-away A great variety of wine, beers & tapas Lounge for meetings, company dinners, small events & birthdays... Now you can follow us on facebook. Find us as “Pizza Mari Cruz”

free wifi

MARI CRUZ is situated in Turre high street. It has a lovely outside terrace and roomy indoor area. Specialising in grilled meats, fish all cooked on BBQ & regional dishes as well as a great variety of wine, beers, tapas and an excellent variety of freshly homemade pizzas & pastas is available to eat in or take away. There is Lounge for meetings, company dinners, small events & birthdays. Come & buy any pizza to take away and get a free margarita pizza absolutely free. Here are a few dates for your diary for forthcoming events at The Beachcomber. Monday 11th March Charity MACS Cancer Charity Quiz Night. Wednesday 13th March is a 60’s & 70’s Tribute Night with a load of Rock n Roll with Lenny. Those lucky enough to see Lennie early December 2012 at the Beachcomber will remember what a great night it was, for those unlucky not to have, don’t miss this one. He’s a great guitarist and singer. Call now to reserve your table on 950 473 099 or visit the website. http://beachcombermojacar.com LA CENA, in Albox is a fine dining experience without the expense. A beautifully decorated restaurant run by husband and wife team Simon and Carol. At the moment they are serving a superb Menu Del Noche, where you can choose from a choice of 3 starters, 5 mains and 3 deserts. They also offer an alternative to the Sunday lunch, a Sunday Sizzler Mixed Grill at just €9.95 per person, with a carafe of wine per couple included! If any of this has whetted your appetite, call 950 430 930 after 5.30pm today! The Crazy Cow Bar/Cafe on Mojacar Playa - have a New Menu available. They are still serving old favourites such as Fishcakes, Smoked fish in cream sauce and Cottage pie. Some newcomers are Mixed seafood spaghetti, Vegetarian rice and Chicken and mushroom bake, most of our menu is gluten free. If you would like G.F Spaghetti please call and give notice and they will be happy to cook it for you. Please go along and graze on a selection of their mini meals. You will not be disappointed ... Just ask your friends. FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CALL 697 465 620. Great venue for Private Functions. After a break over Christmas and New Year, it’s a big welcome back to Julie and Cliff at The Welcome Stranger in Limaria. With mid-week roasts from 4.50€ and lunchtime specials from only 4€, your hosts will ensure a fine dining experience in a friendly environment. To tempt you even further they also offer Steak Night Specials every Thursday and Friday evening and at only 7.95€ per person, it’s got to be worth a try!. Give them a call to reserve your table on 950 432 719.

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

sunday Roast

3 course - €10.50 main course - €7.50 Winter Opening Times 10 til close Food orders taken from 10:30 til 4pm

menu of the day 3 courses €10

regular TRIBUTE SHOWS see website for details

tel: 950 473 099 www.beachcombermojacar.com

La Cena

Restaurante

Albox

menu del noche 3 starters, 5 mains & 3 deserts Full A La Carte also available

Sunday Sizzler mixed grill €9.95 including a carafe of wine per couple

Tuesday - Saturday 7.30pm - late. Sunday 2pm - 6pm Closed Monday. Call 950 430 930 after 5.30pm Find us across the old bridge from Palza Mayor Albox, opp Bar Wassy

Food Cooked With Love

ALL FOOD COOKED TO ORDER

YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED

NEW MENU WITH ALL YOUR OLD FAVOURITES PRIVATE PARTIES CATERED

WINTER HOURS: MONDAY – SATURDAY FROM 11am

CLOSED SUNDAY

KITCHEN OPEN 12noon - 6pm

WE ARE OPPOSITE PLAYA BLANCA TEL: 697465620 SEE YOU THERE XX MOJACAR PLAYA

Email : crazycowcafe@yahoo.com Facebook : Thecrazy Cowcafe

come Stranger WelRestaurante, Limaria Mid week roast – (Wednesdays) 4.50€ Lunchtime Specials – from 4€ Thursday & Friday – Steak Night 7.95€ A La Carte always available Evening set menu – 3 courses plus a drink 9.95€ Sunday Lunch – 1 course, 4.50€ / 3 courses, 9.75€ Open: Wed - Sat 12-3pm and 7-9pm (Last Orders) Sun 12-3.30pm Established 7 years

950 432 719 / 677 378 952

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 of fruit and vegetables daily – including carrots, cabbages and kiwi fruit – gives skin a ‘healthy’ radiance akin to a tan after just a few weeks, according to the study. According to a report by Mail Online (www.dailymail.co.uk), psychologists from the University of St Andrews analysed the impact fruit and vegetable consumption had on perception of skin colour. Pictures were taken of men and women to analyse their skin tone before and after the test period. Researchers found that increased fruit and vegetable consumption led to a deepening of natural red and yellow skin colouration. They calculated that 2.9 portions of fruit and veg a day over a six-week period are enough to make people look more healthy, while 3.3 portions will boost attractiveness. In a second project, participants were asked to ‘judge’ the pictures to rate how attractive the faces were. Those with the ‘healthy glow’ were deemed most desirable. Campaigners struggling to persuade people to eat the recommended five portions of fruit and veg a day could use the findings to promote the idea that such products are not only healthy, but make you more attractive. ‘Advertising the results of our work could be persuasive in motivating individuals to eschew the dangers of excess ultraviolet exposure in favour of improving diet, which we show to be a more effective way of improving appearance,’ says Dr Ross Whitehead, who led the study. ‘We found that skin colour associated with fruit and vegetable consumption influences apparent health to a greater extent a tan.’ Carotenoids – the nutrients responsible for the colours in foods, including carrots and sweet potatoes – are thought to be responsible for the effects. Carotenoids are also present in all layers of human skin. There are several hundred carotenoids, but beta-carotene and lycopene are among the most studied and are associated with a number of health benefits. Carotenoids in retinas, for example, protect the eyes.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

email your favourite recipes to editor@soltimes.com

Spring Green Vegetables With Soft- Cooked Eggs

...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

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.

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

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 thingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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)

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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2013

Albox Ayuntamiento Presents Cultural Events Programme For 2013

Cucador

VidaRestaurant&Venue

Enjoy Wonderful saturday 23rd february Views from our Candelit 6:30pm - 9:30pm Restaurant

Opens 6:30 - 9:30pm WED-SAT Evenings

Multi Choice Menu

4 course meal Despite its recent difficulties the Ayuntamiento of Albox, through the Concejalía de Cultura, has presented its cultural program for the coming months. February is Carnival month, and on the 16th and 22nd there will be Fancy Dress parades, with prizes for the best costumes. During March, on the 8th the Teatro Federico García Lorca will stage the musical ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at 17.00. March 15th, at 10:00 am the same theatre will present Encuentro con Autor Infantil with María del Carmen Quiles Cabrera. On March 16th there will be a concert of sacred music in the Church of Santa Maria, from 20.30. From now until 29th March, amateur photographers have the opportunity to participate in the ‘V Concurso Fotografía Flor de Almendro’, ‘V Almond Blossom Photography Contest’. On 11th April, the first ‘Encuentro de Coros’, ‘Meeting of Choirs’ will be held, with choirs participating from all over Andalucía and Murcia. A traditional ‘Día del libro’, ‘Book Day’ will be held on the 22nd and 23rd of April, and in May ‘Ciencia divertida’, ‘Fun Science’ will take place during the 8th 9th and 10th , and the Theatre Group ‘Por amor al arte’ will perform. All these will take place in the término municipal. As well as these, the ‘Festival Nacional de

Arte Primavera 2013’ will take place in the IES Martín García Ramos. It will commence on 8th March with the ‘XII Encuentro Entre Culturas’ and the ‘X Cross Entre Culturas’. In the same venue from 9th to 17th March the XLIII Certamen Nacional de Teatro Aficionado (National Amateur Theatre) will be held, followed by the ‘VI Día del Abuelo’ Grandparents Day) on 22nd March. On April 5th, the Festival Nacional de Arte Albox will include the ‘VII Certamen de Música de Cámara Jacobo Soto Carmona’, (Seventh Chamber Music Competition Jacobo Soto Carmona) and

either side of this, on the 3rd and 4th and the 8th to 12th April the XXV Certamen de Teatro Juvenil ‘Martín García Ramos’ will be held. On the 19th April the XIV Certamen Nacional de Declamación ‘Diego Granados Jiménez’ (National Recitation Contest ‘Diego Jimenez Granados’) while on the 20th the XIII Certamen de Cuento y Poesía ‘Día del Libro, (Poetry and Short Story Contest ‘Book Day’) will be held. In addition, from 4th to 22nd March and 2nd to 20 April ‘Espacios’ o la muestra escultórica will be on display in the Museo Pedro Gilabert, in Arboleas.

only

€10.95

from

7.45€

bookings now being taken Thursday night special delicious homemade pies , Homemade Chips & Peas

fridays

Beer-battered cod, homemade chips & peas served 12.30pm - 9pm

tapas 1€

from

5.95€ in the Bar

in the bar

Are You In The Know? We want to hear from you!

FAME & FORTUNE AWAITS! (well, maybe only ‘fame’!)

We are looking to develop our Local News Content for the Costa Almeria & Costa Calida editions and we want to hear from YOU if you would like to submit news articles on a regular basis... ...you won’t earn a cent but you will get your name in print in every issue, complete with a byline to promote ‘you’ every week - you’ll become a overnight

sensation!

editor@soltimes.com

booking advisable

traditional

All Selections 1€ Each

sunday lunch

Tuesday Bar

Specials

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from

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Chicken Curry & Long Grain Rice

Cod, Chips ‘n’ Peas

Open Every Day 12pm - Late

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book the Venue

For your Private Parties, Weddings and Birthdays etc.

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

community news WELCOME events The Ex Servicemen´s HELP Murcia Mar Menor fast Welcome Events Association of Mazarron Forthcoming Events Future Events for 2013 Thursday 21st February Bargain Hunt/ March 6th - Ladies Evening, with bingo, F.A.S.T Bookstall is back – 2nd & 4th Friday District ( ESAMD) Auction at Paddy Singh’s, Los Urrutias. Items fashion show and stalls selling jewellery, are meeting on the 10th March at the Trevi Restaurant for a Mother´s Day lunch at 1-30 for 2.p.m. The function is open to all members of ESAMD and invited guests. Please contact the Social Secretary on 968 437 074 or 618 591 298 for more information. Any Ex Service personnel wishing to join, should contact the Membership Secretary on 629 818 611

mABS CANCER SUPPORT GROUP MAZARRON EVENTS FUTURE 2013 EVENTS

Tuesday 23rd April – ST GEORGE’S DAY – La Vida Bar, El Pareton Further details to be announced at a later date – reserve the date in your diary! Saturday 25th May –SPRING FAIR 396 Avda de los Covachos Camposol Sector B4 – 12.00 am to 3.00pm Our regular Spring Fair is in the planning stage, but please add it to your diary. Every 2nd & 3rd Friday – BOOK SALE Camposol Sector B Commercial Centre – 9.30 am – 1.00 pm Event tickets on sale at the book stall Between 9.30am and 1.00pm or from the MABS Information Centre on Sector B4 Camposol or by Calling 620 582 418 Keep watching the press or visit our website www.mabsmurcia.com for more events For further details, please call 620 582 418

EMAIL YOUR events and BIRTHDAY GREETINGS TO: EDITOR@SOLTIMES. COM

for the auction to be brought between 10-12p. m., hammer down at 2p.m. €10 fee for 3 items and €4 for one item. Thursday 25th April dinner / dance at the Costa Narejos Hotel, Los Alcazares. For €40 per person you arrive any time after noon, there is an evening meal in the dining room, then dancing to the Big Band Swingtet, an overnight stay and breakfast in the morning.

This is only a foretaste of events planned for 2013. New events will be publicised as soon as they are arranged. The sale of clothes by Help Murcia Mar Menor volunteers at The Arches on Saturday mornings has been postponed until February. Every third Tuesday in the month HELP MMM’s general meeting takes place at Las Claras, Los Narejos at 11.30 for 12 noon. Tickets for events available from Joan Mitchell 868 185685 or 678 135 467, Janice Clark on 968 134 355, or the office 968 570 059 Friendship Group On 22nd February there will be card games or a quiz (or perhaps even the mysterious Chicken Scratch) at the Café Golf, San Javier at 12 noon.

cards, etc. Entertainment by the popular Martin Ross. €3. March 13th - Monthly dance, with Samantha Curtis, and new to Welcome, Debbie B. €8.

March 24th - Annual Treasure Hunt. See parts of our area you normally wouldn’t go to as you follow the route and answer the questions on the way. Always good fun. €8 to include a buffet at a mystery location. Hot news - We are going to Sevilla from September 16th-20th, staying B & B at hotel Becquer, close to the city centre and near bars and restaurants. Visit the Plaza De Espana, take a ride in a horse and carriage from the cathedral, or visit one of the many museums. Includes a stop in Granada on the outward journey, a trip to Huelva and a jamon factory, and time in Cordoba on the return journey. Just €350. Book now as this is selling fast. We are going to Benidorm again next Christmas, following our successful stay there last Christmas. We will use the hotel Helios as usual, and already many people have reserved. If you want to go, act now, as this is sure to fill up fast. For more information, ring Rosemary on 620 105 179.

On 22nd March we meet at the Asia Restaurant, San Javier at 1p.m (a week earlier than normal)

the New Royal Bar & Restaurant

Ring Doreen Sykes on 637 920 882 if you are interested in attending any of the Friendship Group’s events

market tavern & cm construction (puer to de mazarron)

(Camposol A)

are drop off points for soltimes

Private or trade letters to editor for birthdays or announcements Drop your details into them and we will print them in the next edition of the paper

The Beacon of Light

Centre for Spiritual Awareness

Meetings held every Wednesday from 7pm - approx 8.30pm: The Old School House Canadas del Romero dates for Our guest mediums: February 20th - Sammy Fitzsimmons February 27th - Joy and John Sloman March 6 - Debbie Blevins March 13th - Sammy Fitzsimmons March 20th - Morag Bullock March 27th - Jimmy McArthur

For more info please call 620 877 326 www.beaconoflightmurcia.webs.com email: beacon.of.light.murcia@gmail.com

Healing is available after the service by request. Funding for the meetings will be raised by donations collected during the evening... Join us on Facebook: Beacon of Light Murcia

every month Camposol ‘B’ Commercial Centre Saturday - 23rd March – F.A.S.T Easter Fayre – Marianos, Camposol from 11am – 3pm Sunday - 31st March - Sponsored Fun Walk and Easter Bonnet Parade (prize for best Bonnet). Sponsorship forms available from FAST bookstall. Friday - 5th April – Rock n Roll n Jive Night – Camposol Club House, ‘C’ Sector 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 Saturday - 13th July – BBQ & Western Theme Night – Camposol Golf Club House Friday - 11th October – Oktoberfest? Beer & Wine Festival – Camposol Golf Club Saturday- 23rd November – F.A.S.T Christmas Fayre – Marianos Camposol ‘A’ 11am – 3pm Event tickets will be on sale from the F.A.S.T 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 847or 634 327 730.

Tel 968 595 864

Our food is full of flavour & freshly prepared Breakfast ~ Menu Del Dia ~ A la Carte Friday Fish and Chips from €6.00

ENTERTAINMENT IS FREE AT THE NEW ROYAL Our Royal Performances

23rd Feb

A tribute to the amazing Adele

Sunday’s at The New Royal

Sunday Lunches from € 8.50 Menu de la Noche Mon - Thurs 7 - 9pm 10€ per person

3 Courses plus 1 bottle of Wine per couple

Menu del Dia

An Amazing For ONLY

Courses

8.50€

All Live Sporting Events Shown On 3 BIG Screens

We Are Open Every Day Mon - Thurs 10am - 11pm, Fri - Sun 10am - late

(El Alamillo Plaza, 200mts from the Beach – Pto De Mazarron)

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

SOLTIMES www.soltimes.com see us online everyday

BY TELEPHONE Between 10am & 5pm

Monday to Friday 902 750 190 ext 330

966 719 647

BY E-MAIL

Send your advert or Classified lineage to

blancasales@soltimes.com

IN PERSON

Quesada Business Centre, calle Los Arcos No 7, ciudad Quesada Mon to Fri 10am - 5pm

PAYMENT

VISA ,Paypal, bank transfer & Cheques made payable to MATHEWS mEDIA s.l

DEADLINES All adverts Friday at 5pm prior to publication

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

SOL CLASSIFIEDS

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 NG 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 y r e , www.southcostablancaonline.com M it c h eli n 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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

www.soltimes.com property for sale / rent

for sale cont... Com p u te r 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 i n s u r a n c es 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 NG 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 d uce red 0

2 only€49.00

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 n a t a s h a , 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

...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 a lo n M a rga reth as 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.

ed want

dead o alive r

scrap metal plastic glass white goods all electricals (working or not working)

furniture tv’s, dvd’s etc clothes

t don’k it c u ch ak e it t 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

clea ra nc

€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

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

www.soltimes.com

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

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Danone to cut 900 jobs in Europe

French food and drink company Danone has said it will cut 900 jobs after weakness in southern European economies hit sales. The owner of Activia yogurt and Evian bottled water reported sales of 20.1bn euros ($26.8bn; £17.3bn) in 2012, up 5.4% from a year earlier. But sales in Europe fell 3% following a “severe deterioration” in consumer demand. As a result, Danone has announced a cost-cutting plan. The firm plans to cut about 900 management and administrative positions across 26 European countries.

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“2013 will be a year of transition, with vigorous development in business in our growth markets and a drive to strengthen operations in Europe,” said chairman and chief executive Franck Riboud in a statement. The world’s biggest maker of yogurts predicted its profit margins would fall again this year, with a negative trend for demand in Europe and prices of raw materials staying high. Its sales growth in 2012 was at the lower end of its own expectations and behind the 5.9% achieved by its Swiss rival Nestle. The company is heavily exposed to European economies, with about 38% of its sales coming from western Europe. Sales at its Spanish dairy division were particularly weak. The company announced in December that it was preparing a two-year cost-cutting programme to save about 200m euros. Read the full report at www.bbc.co.uk

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German economy to return to growth, says Bundesbank

Germany will avoid recession and return to growth in the first quarter of 2013, the country’s central bank has said.

The Bundesbank’s monthly report for February forecast that the rest of 2013 will see a gradual pick-up in activity in Europe’s biggest economy. If the economy shrank again in the current quarter, Germany would technically be in recession, defined as two quarters of contraction. The economy shrank by 0.6% in the last three months of 2012.

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The 17-nation eurozone fell deeper into recession at the end of 2012. The European Central Bank has forecast that the eurozone will shrink 0.3% in 2013, and only start to recover later in the year.

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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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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.

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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.

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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