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SolTimes issue 270

20-26 march

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Murcia

According to the the AccuWeather web. the outlook for Easter Week is a little changeable. It is forecast to be sunny with occasional cloud, and the slight chance of a shower around the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of Holy Week.

However, no precipitation of any note is expected, and Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday are expected to be sunny, with no rain forecast.

Valencia

Sport

The Fallas are in full swing this week. Valencia is the biggest, most famous and probably the noisiest Falla celebration in the region, but Fallas are also made and celebrated in Alicante, Denia, Gandia, Oliva and Castellón.

The huge figures, papier mache on a wooden frame, are of local politicians or public figures, and this year’s theme is not surprisingly based around the austerity measures President Mariano Rajoy, who is portrayed holding a giant pair of scissors, and Valencia’s tough no-nonsense Mayoress Rita Barberá feature prominently on the winning Falla.

Every midday this week the town will be deafened by the mascletaes, gunpowder crackers which are let off in front of the Valencia Ayuntamiento.

Here between March 17 and 19, the falleras dressed in traditional costume start to build, or complete, the giant statue of the Virgin Mary. This is a wooden frame with a perfect head modelled on top, and each fallera will cover a portion of her with flowers, eventually making a complete figure with a papier mache head and a body covered every inch with flowers.

The main Fallas are huge, several stories high, exquisitely modelled caricatures which tell a story. Each Falla is constructed over a period of months by its own Association, much as the Semana Santa Cofradias, and is assembled in the Carpa, or marquee, belonging to each Association, and in which the falleras will spend virtually the whole Fiesta.

Tuesday, March 19, which is both Saint Joseph’s Day and

Fathers’ Day, is the day when the Fallas are burnt, starting with the least popular and ending with the second most popular. The winning Falla will be disassembled to a degree, with the salient features being retained, preserved and put on view to the public in the Museo de Fallas before it too is burnt.

Valencia

Thinking that a beauty salon in the Russafa district was unattended, a 63 year old woman helped herself from the till, taking 715 Euros. She had tried this same manoeuvre only moments before at a nearby Driving School, taking 950 Euros from the till. However, the beauty salon staff were actually on the premises, taking their lunch break at the rear of the salon. They heard a noise, and went to investigate. When she realised that she had been discovered she fled. The staff gave chase, calling for police assistance as they ran. The police were able to apprehend her, found the cash still on her person, as were the tools, a small knife and a screwdriver, which she had thrown into a skip as she fled

Murcia

30-year-old woman and her daughter, aged 15, have been found dead in their home in Calle Pintor Pablo Picasso, in Sangonera de la Seca.

The bodies were discovered by the woman’s husband, father of the girl. He noticed a strong smell of gas, and dragged the bodies out of the house, though at that point he believed that they were simply unconscious.

However, the Emergency Services were called, and pronounced them both dead at the scene. It was assumed that a gas leak was the cause of the tragedy, though inspections carried out by the Bomberos found that despite the strong smell of gas, the house was said to be well ventilated, and the gas boiler to be in perfect working order.

Torrevieja

The Asociación Española contra el Cáncer - Torrevieja has

advised that screening for prostate cancer and mammograms should be taken every year. Many believe that these tests should be taken every two years, but the Association stresses that this is not the case. The Associación, which is entirely charity funded, with no Government grants, operates from the Calle Torrevejenses Ausentes 33, between Plaza Oriente and the Queen Burger Bar. It is open onWednesday mornings between 10.30am and 1pm. For full details, or to make an appointment, call 96 571 66 79.

Orihuela

On the 21st March at 7pm in the Sala de Exposiciones La Lonja the judging and awards ceremony will take place for the 5th Premio Internacional de Poesia for children.

Also the Concejalía de Comercio has organised, in collaboration with the Cámara de Comercio, the Semana del Padre.

This initiative aims to encourage customer loyalty to Orihuela’s shops. The Concejal de Comercio, Manuel Gallud, said that the 100 participating merchants will offer customers the opportunity to participate in a lottery draw for two dinners for four people (two adults and two children) at the Hotel Palacio de Tudemir, with an additiona lprize of two gift vouchers of 300 euros to spend on facilities attached to the promotion.

The draw will take place at 10.30 am on Monday, March 25 in the Sala de Prensa of the Ayuntamiento, and will be open to the public. To participate, businesses distributed numbered tickets to customers who made purchases of less than 20 euros.

The participating businesses will have a notice displayed on their premises to announce their participation in the promotion.

Details of the draw are available on the web www. portaldelcomerciante.com/orihuela

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

One in four school bullying cases end up in court

As many as 40 schools in Spain have been in court for failing to tackle bullying, research shows.

Nowadays, cruel playground taunts and insults, as well as school violence, are far more likely to end up in court and education lawyers say their telephones never stop ringing.

Where the bullies are aged 14 or over, the parents of the affected child can and do turn their legal action towards the culprits, but at present in Spain, children of 13 years old or under are unable to be considered guilty of a criminal offence and the parents end up suing the school.

The tendency towards taking bullying issues to court rose dramatically after the suicide of a 14-year-old Basque schoolboy, Jokin Zeberio, who threw himself off a wall in 2004 because he could not take any more of the constant bad-mouthing, humiliating remarks and punches meted out by his classmates.

His death marked a ‘before and after’ in how school bullying was regarded, having until then being considered ‘just a normal part of school life’ and children who complained about being victims of it told to ‘stop being a baby’ and ‘stand up for yourself’.

One Madrid-based lawyer, Pedro González, says his workload has been overwhelming since he managed to get the Amor de Dios private school in Alcorcón to pay compensation to the tune of 24,000 euros to a family.

He found that the school had breached its duty of care to the 10-year-old son, who suffered repeated bullying which the teachers were fully aware of and did nothing to stop.

In January this year, his work led to the grant-maintained Ramar de Sabadell school in Barcelona paying compensation in the sum of 30,000 euros to a family whose child had suffered in identical circumstances.

Judges appear to be very willing to find teachers and headteachers, or the school itself as a whole, guilty of failing in their duty of care and holding them legally liable where they ignore cases of bullying, be it physical or psychological, said another solicitor, Nuria Rebón.

But at present, most of the successful cases have been against private schools or the grant-maintained variety known as Colegios Concertados – a halfway-house between private and public.

This is because in order to sue a State school, the parents have to apply to the public sector litigation court, and it is more difficult to get a favourable verdict through these channels.

A study carried out as far back as 2007 found that 23 per cent of children from infants to sixth form had suffered some kind of ongoing victimising by their classmates, with four per cent saying they were insulted and taunted to the point of tears or were physically hit.

The most conflictive ages appeared to be between 11 and 14.

But even though it is eight years since Jokin Zeberio’s suicide, neither the ministry of education nor the ministry of the interior has been able to produce any statistics concerning the number of cases of bullying detected per year in Spain.

And the youth prosecution service only gave the issue eight lines in its bulky endof-year report in 2012, and does not even

consider school bullying to be a criminal offence.

Although the charity created after the Basque teenager’s death, SOS Bullying, believes schools are better prepared to tackle bullying, detect it early on and prevent it where possible, the Anti-School Bullying Association (ACAE) says that other than a few ‘honourable exceptions’, the majority of schools do not know how to deal with the problem, or simply bury their heads in the sand.

The Ramar de Sabadell school reached an out-of-court settlement of 30,000 euros after the parents of a nine-year-old boy appointed Pedro González as their lawyer to pursue the case, but not before recognising that they could have done more to help.

The child constantly suffered put-downs, digs, humiliating remarks and insults, but tried to brush it aside, considering this was just the role he had ended up with in ‘the gang’.

Hitting and punching came next – including the little boy getting a brutal slap to ‘mark’ his 11th birthday – and the child sank into clinical depression, refused to eat and said he was terrified of going to school.

Speaking to the teachers, governors and headteachers did nothing, so they took the matter to court.

This came after another high-profile case involving the Swiss School in Alcobendas (Madrid), where a judge in a county court rejected the parents’ case even though they had videos proving their child had been bullied.

But the provincial court upheld their appeal and ordered the Swiss School to pay 30,000 euros in compensation, which was at the time the highest-ever damages payment in Europe in respect of school bullying.

The first case where a State school was found to be legally liable for psychological and verbal bullying inflicted on a 10-yearold girl, who had since moved school.

A judge ordered the regional government of Castilla-La Mancha to pay 2,000 euros plus the cost of psychologists’ fees in respect of the ‘complacent and at times permissive attitude’ of Hellín primary school in the situation.

Only about a quarter of bullying cases reach the courts and pursuing them is very expensive, solicitors warn.

Most say legal action should be a last resort after all other methods have failed, but say schools are now waking up to the gritty reality of bullying.

The newlylitigious nature of this debilitating problem, which can leave mental scars until well into adult life, is acting as a warning to schools of what could happen if they sit on their laurels.

ARTICLE: WWW.THINK SPAIN. COM

3

Pension reform will condemn up to 40,000 self-employed workers to years of struggle, warns union A pension reform launched by the Spanish government means that ‘early retirement age’ has now risen to 65, and in order to do so, workers will have to have been paying into the system for 35 years rather than the previous 30.

And ‘paying into the system’ only counts as a full year if the person has been working full-time – part-time work is calculated on a pro-rata basis.

This means a person who has been working 20 hours a week instead of 40 will only be considered to have paid their stamp for six months in each year.

The Union of Self-Employed Workers’ and Business Owners’ Associations (UATAE) warns that the toughening up of pension entitlement conditions will hit those who work for themselves the hardest.

Many self-employed people in their 50s and early 60s who are struggling to find enough work to survive would be better off retiring and leaving a job opportunity open to a younger person who cannot find a job and has 30 or 40 years left that they need to be working, says the UATAE. “For all these people who work for themselves, this move is a harsh backward

step which willl force them to stay in the rat-race, even though they have little or no work to enable them to survive, and will prevent them from being able to hand the reins over to younger people,” says the Secretary-General, María José Landaburu.

She has slammed the ‘lack of communication’ with the community of affected workers and the fact that ‘there has not even been a Parliamentary debate’ to allow everyone a say and help prevent the negative effects on workers of the reform.

The UATAE says increasing early retirement minimum age meant even fewer jobs would be available to younger people at a time when there are not enough to go round.

And the increase in minimum number of years of paying social security before a person can retire means many of those who today are in their 20s, 30s and 40s and cannot find jobs may find they can never afford to retire, the UATAE warns.

As many as 30,000 to 40,000 selfemployed people could be badly affected by the reform, says Landaburu.

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4

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Cardinal Bergoglio: first Spanishspeaking Pope in 510 years

Sport

The Dojo is a new venue open in Quesada. Its not just a fitness centre! They have a comfy lounge bar area welcoming you and 2 halls for hire on a private basis.

Whether its for functions like kids or adults parties, business meetings or groups and clubs. Bar and catering are available or you can bring your own food, they can even cater for you in your own home.

The halls can also be hired out by the hour for classes such at fitness, dance and martial arts. Their schedule already includes the award winning Sasen Ryu Martial Arts Academy which holds lessons in Karate and Tae Kwon Do as well as many other classes such as Yoga, Big Stars for kids, Fit and Stretch and they are the only venue in the Costa Blanca to host the amazing Corebar.

There are lots more classes so contact The Dojo for more details.

The Dojo also supports local charities by offering their halls totally free for charity events.

The Dojo is also host to The Spiritualist Church of Quesada who hold their meetings on a Tuesday and Sunday every week.

If you would like to hire their halls for a function, group meeting or as an instructor or would like more information contact The Dojo: email: thedojoquesada@hotmail.co.uk, check out their website: wwwthedojoquesada.com or give them a call on: 698571979 The Dojo is on Avd Las Naciones behind the Nan Kin and Claptons Bar.

euro

Argentina’s Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio has been elected as successor of Pope Benedict XVI. The first Latin American – in fact, non-European - Pope in more than 1,000 years and the first native Spanish-speaking pontiff in 510 years, 76-year-old Bergoglio addressed the crowds formed below the balcony of the Basilica di San Pietro in Rome, commenting on how his ‘brother cardinals’ had ‘chosen one from afar’, but ‘here I am’.

He will be known as Pope Francisco I. Calling for ‘brotherhood’ in the Catholic community, Francisco I led prayers for his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who will remain Pope Emeritus now he has retired.

Spain’s first Pope was Saint Dámaso, between 366 and 384 AD, although official records claim he was Italian – despite it having been proven that his parents were from Galicia.

The only other two Spanish-speaking Popes were part of the infamous Borgia dynasty – Calixto III, or Alfonso de Borja, from 1455 to 1458, and Alessandro VI between 1492 and 1503.

No other Spanish-speaking country in the world has had a Pope.

Human skeleton found in mine

A human skeleton was found last Sunday by children in a mine in Torrent, Valencia, say police.

According to press reports, Police believe it is the remains of a man who would have died less than five years ago, so they intend to scrutinise missing persons’ records from 2008 to 2012.

According to the Guardia Civil, there were no signs of criminal activity in the mine, leading them to believe that if

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the skeleton is that of a murder victim, his body was dumped there after the killing. But there are no obvious traces of violence on the bones – no fractures or holes in the skull, officers reveal.

A pair of spectacles and remains of men’s clothing were found near the skeleton.

Police have since been searching the area for more bones.

The skeleton is being examined by

ZARA STORE WORKERS WON’T WORK SATURDAYS IN JULY & AUGUST

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forensics.

This grisly discovery was made by the children of the security guard who patrols the mine.

Officers say the area where the bones were found was fenced off, making it difficult to access easily.

This is the third skeleton to be found in the Valencia province in the last two months. The other two appeared on a hilltop in Dos Aguas and in a bamboo field in Alboraya.

editor@soltimes.com

ZARA stores in Bilbao have been forced to close on Saturday afternoons in the summer by a court after a staff union took legal action against the firm.

The Inditex chain, owned by Amancio Ortega – the richest man in Spain and the world’s third-wealthiest, according to the Forbes List – began to stay open on Saturday afternoons and evenings in July and August ‘due to the recession’ in a bid to increase sales. Its various stores used to close on Saturday lunchtime and not reopen until Monday morning, in keeping with other shops in the city, during the peak summer months.

According to ThinkSpain, workers complained about the fact that they used to be able to have afternoons off on Saturdays to enjoy the summer weather, and that now they were expected to work instead. Although the Inditex group initially said it would not open Saturday afternoons in summer unless staff chose to work those hours, it later did so, staffing the stores with HR employees.

Union ELA says Saturday afternoons off in the summer is a ‘fundamental right’ of shop workers which ‘has been difficult to achieve’ and that one sole firm ‘has no business’ going against the standard working conditions agreement, or convenio colectivo, laid down for a given industry.

Inditex has agreed to close all its stores in the province of Vizcaya at lunchtimes on Saturdays in July and August and not reopen until Monday mornings.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

5

Madrid marked the ninth anniversary of the Atocha station bombing by AlQaeda which left 199 dead, including a sevenmonth-old baby.

Dubbed 11-M, the date is engraved on the memories of residents in the capital as what started out as a normal day travelling to work turned into a massacre hitting international headlines when a commuter train was blown to pieces by terrorists.

The day after the attack, as many as 45 bodies were still being held in the IFEMA exhibition centre awaiting identification, another 20 victims were temporarily stored at the M-30 cemetery, and nearly 1,500 were injured, 38 of whom were in a serious condition.

Around 100 surgical operations were carried out in the first 24 hours.

Nearly 100 survivors of the blast are still in counselling

as a result, and both they and the family members and friends of those who perished are still smarting from the ‘lies’ told by the then PP government.

President at the time, José María Aznar, told the public that the bomb had been planted by ETA, but ETA actively denied this and it later transpired to be the work of Islamic fundamentalist terrorists, who were sentenced to an exemplary 1,000 years in jail.

It has always been claimed that this was the reason for the PP losing the elections shortly afterwards, when PSOE leader José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero took over the reins and stayed in office until November 2011 when Spain went to the polls ahead of time and Mariano Rajoy won by a landslide victory.

Victims of the attack and loved ones of those who died have criticised the fact that the horrors

of 11-M appear to have been forgotten, saying corruption dominates the headlines and politicians have failed to mention it.

But Madrid’s mayoress Ana Botella held a memorial service in the post office house, to the background music of Mozart’s Requiem and with numerous political figures in attendance.

And Mariano Rajoy has pledged to keep the war on terrorism alive and kicking until it is wiped out for good.

Al-Qaeda did not stop at Madrid – on July 7, 2005, suicide bombers targeted public transport in the city of London, causing over 50 deaths and 700 injuries, including a young student from Menorca.

She was sitting on an underground train and suffered superficial face wounds caused by shattered windows, but her father said at the time that it was the sight of so many dead people around

her that have really scarred her for life.

Madrid relived the tragedy vicariously after three bomb attacks on the London underground were launched and a fourth on a city-centre double-decker bus.

Terrorist victim support teams from Madrid were sent to London by then mayor, Alberto RuizGallardón, who is now minister of justice

Bon Jovi concert sells 30,000 tickets in four hours

Just four hours after tickets went on sale for Bon Jovi’s one-night-only concert in Madrid, 30,000 people had already snapped up their seats.

Prices range between 18 and 39 euros, since the legendary rockers from New Jersey want as many fans as possible to be able to afford to enjoy the show at the Vicente Calderón stadium.

The brains and voice behind classic hits such as Livin’ on a prayer and Bed of roses will only make one stop in Spain this year on its European tour – in Madrid on June 27.

After a four-year silence since their last studio album, the band is on tour promoting its new CD, What about now, which features the hit single Because we can.

The last time they were in Spain was in

Barcelona and San Sebastián for their On air tour in 2011, a year after performing at Madrid’s Rock in Rio festival and Circo Price Theatre.

Bon Jovi has performed over 2,700 concerts in more than 50 countries in front of 35 million fans and reached number one in the charts on two occasions – all in the last three years.

Fans should strike while the iron is hot since it is likely tickets will be sold out within days, if not hours.

They can purchase them online from www. doctormusic.com or www.ticketmaster. es; in person from Carrefour, the usual Ticketmaster points of sale and record and book chain store FNAC, or by telephoning 902 15 00 25

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Free Wi-Fi everywhere makes El Hierro the world’s first ‘Smart island’ A brand-new and totally free Wi-Fi hoped it can later be adapted to help network covering the whole of El Hierro has been unveiled, making it the first-ever ‘Smart island’ on the planet.

With 26 Wi-Fi access points scattered across the island in residential areas, town and village centres and the main tourist attractions, it means holidaymakers can share their experiences in real time.

They can also connect to the tourist information office and download the application El Hierro te sigue (‘El Hierro is following you’) so they can trace all the Wi-Fi points on the island.

But the downside is that cover does not extend to residential homes, and the download speed is limited to a painfullyslow 256 kilobytes per second.

The Wi-Fi network will also be used by authorities to monitor traffic, and it is

detect and control forest and house fires and connect to sensors on rubbish bins and drinking-water silos to enable their better management.

It was opened yesterday by minister for industry, energy and tourism José Manuel Soria and the head of the tourist information department on the island, Alpidio Armas.

El Hierro’s local government is now the outright owner of the Wi-Fi network, so it does not come from any other provider which sends regular bills.

Parts of the island have no 3G cover or even electricity – such as El Julán and Cala de Tacorón - but these have been adapted to make use of renewable energy sources so that they can connect up to the Wi-Fi network

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Madrid remembers 11-M bomb victims

6

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

unemployment remains a problem for spain

Neater Heater:

Norway’s Answer To Having A Warm Home In Winter!

Sport

Neater Heater was started in a “Victor Kiam” moment. Remember him? “I was so impressed with the product that I bought the company”.

Having struggled unsuccessfully with several different styles of electric heaters, Richard and Tony accidentally discovered Neater Heaters in the home of a Norwegian friend of theirs. Neater Heaters are slimline wall-mounted electric convector heaters that combine state of the art technology, Scandinavian design and build quality, with Norwegian understanding of how to stay warm in winter.

They differ from most of their rivals by using an Extruded Aluminium element, designed with a large surface area, to heat the air in your room directly without having to go through an intermediary medium such as oil. The cold air at the bottom of the room is drawn into the heater where it is directly heated by the element, rises, and exits through the vents at the top of the heater. This causes a convection current leading to a continuous circulation of heated air. This means that all the energy generated by your valuable euro is used to heat your room, and not the carcass of the heater, or the oil inside it.

Because of the design and the technologically advanced materials, this can all be achieved at a lower element temperature, thus generating more heat per kilowatt.

What this basically means for you is: Neater Heaters can make you warmer than most of the competition can for less money.

Neater Heaters can warm a much larger area than most of the competition can for the same money.

Neater Heaters Can be viewed and purchased from one of our numerous distributors throughout the region.

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For every job that needs to be filled, there are 107 unemployed persons, research shows.

It claims that a year on from the government’s labour reform, economic activity in Spain has not improved and the jobless figures continue to rise.

At present, there are six million people of working age on the dole and 16.1 million people registered on the Social Security system either as employed or self-employed, within a population of nearly 47 million people.

In the meantime, though, over 20 trade fairs are travelling the country offering up to 1,000 jobs abroad, whilst Switzerland is actively seeking foreign doctors due to not having enough medicallyqualified professionals in the country, and Panamá is looking for Spanish engineers.

AFI-ASEmpleo, who carried out the research based upon ministry of employment figures, says the jobless total is likely to fall briefly over Easter but will rise again between April and the start of

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the summer, because of temporary jobs in the tourism industry.

The number of tribunals for people losing their jobs has risen, with 18 for every 100 sackings or redundancies – an increase on the 16.21 per 100 in 2009.

So far, the number of strikes – 400 in 2012 – is about half that of the previous two economic crises of 1990 to 1992 and 1987 to 1988.

On-the-job apprentice and training contracts for young people with few or no qualifications, or qualified but with no work experience, have increased by 22.7 in the last year.

An estimated 29,000 people lost their jobs between January and February, and unemployment rates are currently the highest since records began in 1996.

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Valencia mum loses custody battle

A woman from Valencia who has been fighting to keep her children in the country for nearly three years has lost her case, and the three boys have now been sent to live with their dad in Mexico.

Isabel Monrós (pictured above) leapt onto the bonnet of police cars in her attempt to stop National Police officers from taking her children away; she was subsequently taken to hospital and treated for an anxiety attack.

She was married to the father of the children and living with him in Mexico when the children were born, but when she divorced her husband and a régime of visits and maintenance payments were decided by the court, Isabel realised there was no way she would be able to support herself and her children as a single mother in Mexico and decided to go and live with her parents in Alboraya, Valencia. But taking the children out of Mexico without their father’s agreement meant they were brought to Spain illegally.

Ever since Isabel returned home in 2010, a bitter court battle between the parents has been ongoing and a judge finally agreed that the children should go back to Mexico to live with

their father.

Last week, a 300-strong crowd, including family members, friends and neighbours of the mother, created a human blockade to stop police from removing the kids by force to take them away.

However, a female judge decided to uphold the sentence, based upon the final verdict by a Mexican court stating that the children should remain in the North American country.

The judge had called for psychologists’ reports on the children, who were interviewed by mental health experts and found to be ‘completely sound’. And the judge said there were no known reports to either Mexican or Spanish authorities of abuse or violence by the father towards either the mother or her children, as Isabel had always maintained. She claimed the court psychologists did not detect any sign of abuse or aggression by the father towards the children when she interviewed the three youngsters.

The children have now been removed from the family home in Alboraya by the police and were due to fly back to Mexico last Tuesday.

A woman has discovered she may be the daughter of ‘Franco’s bank manager’ after reading a letter in her loft.

According to a report

by ThinkSpain, Ana María Gallart, 65, was in an orphanage in Mallorca after she was born on December 23, 1947, until she was two years old when she was adopted by Víctor and Felí.

They would never answer her questions about ‘where she came from’, telling her that her parents’ identity was unknown.

At the age of 21, having lived with her adopted parents in Valencia for nearly a decade and about to get married for the first time to the man with whom she would have her three children, Ana needed to apply for her birth certificate from the registry.

It showed she had actually been born on December 18 and her surname was March.

Her adopted mum and dad refused to talk about it, but when she was 32, Ana found a file in the loft labelled ‘Little Ana’s documents’.

All this pointed to the fact that she could have been

7

woman discovers her birth father was Franco’s second-in-command the daughter of the most famous 20th century tycoon in Spain, Juan March, known as ‘bank man’ to dictator General Franco.

A year of investigations and four books on Sr March later, Ana asked her father Víctor outright.

He became ‘very twitchy’ and said, “you needn’t search any further,” in such a way as to suggest that either she had found what she was looking for, or an instruction not to carry on digging.

Five years ago, then on her second and current marriage, she found that personal items belonging to Juan March were being auctioned for six million euros by the Tate Gallery in London.

Further searching in Palma de Mallorca uncovered medals given to Ana and her twin sister at birth by their biological mother, and finding out that her sister María Rosa had died aged

eight months and her mother Rosa at the age of 66.

But María Rosa’s gravestone says she was three months old.

Two years ago, Ana found a two-page typewritten letter which confirmed, indubitably, that her natural father was Juan March and that her parents had been forced to keep the matter a secret, signing the letter to confirm this.

Víctor had intended for Ana to read the letter after his death, but Felí hid it out of fear.

Although Ana says her search has always been merely curiosity about her origins, she may in fact be entitled to a multi-millioneuro inheritance from her real father, who did not even know she had been conceived.

The body of the tycoon is being exhumed for further investigation.

8

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

music with mark

teachers to face tough written exams to keep their jobs

Teachers with excellent grades and limited or no experience are currently at the bottom of the list for getting jobs, but an about-turn in the system means thousands who got work based upon practical teaching will now have to face tough written exams in order to keep their positions.

Until now, experience in supply teaching counted above everything else and applicants in this situation were chosen first.

Those who had previously taught in a private school, or a grant-maintained establishment – known as a colegio concertado, a ‘halfway house’ between a private and public school – and wished to switch to work in a State centre would also be among those who got first pick for teaching posts.

In both cases, if this practical work had been obtained without their having taken and passed the necessary public sector exams, known as oposiciones, the candidate would still be at the top of the list.

Candidates with no experience but who had passed all the public sector exams were at the bottom of the heap and the last to get a job, even if they had excellent grades of 80 per cent or above.

About 1,100 in the average Spanish province is affected by this structure.

And being at the bottom of the list, getting any work experience to climb higher up it has been nearly impossible because they will be overlooked when supply teacher positions come up.

Now, though, the hierarchy is set to be reversed with exam completion

and corresponding grades being considered the most important factor for getting work.

Worst of all is that those teachers who already have a job now have to take and pass the oposiciones exams and will be fired if they do not.

They only have two attempts to pass these, and if they fail both, they will lose their jobs.

This is likely to mean good quality and experienced teachers lose their jobs in favour of others who have never been in front of a class in real life.

After studying their chosen subject at university and a teacher-training course, those who want to get a job at the chalkface have to pass three sets of public sector exams, or oposiciones, which have an extremely stringent and unforgiving marking criteria.

Most take several attempts to get through these, and are then passed onto a database, or bolsa de trabajo, where they will be called in for supply teaching work periodically.

This can mean a phone call ordering them to drop everything and head to the other side of the country for a week’s worth of work, giving up any current job they may have.

Refusal to take up the offer normally means being deleted from the database.

For every full-time, permanent teaching job in the public sector, there are normally a minimum of 15 candidates, which translates to about 3,000 applicants for every 200 positions.

Revolver is the seventh studio album by the English rock band The Beatles, released on 5 August 1966 on the Parlophone label and produced by George Martin. Many of the tracks on Revolver feature an electric guitarrock sound that contrasts with their previous LP; the folk rock inspired Rubber Soul (1965). In Britain, the fourteen tracks from Revolver were released to radio stations throughout July 1966, “building anticipation for what would clearly be a radical new phase in the group’s recording career”. In many respects, Revolver is one of the very first psychedelic LPs, not only in its numerous shifts in mood and production texture, but in its innovative manipulation of amplification and electronics to produce new sounds on guitars and other instruments. Specifically, widelyheralded examples include the backwards riffs of “I’m Only Sleeping”, the sound effects of “Yellow Submarine”, the sitar of “Love You To”, the blurry guitars of “She Said, She Said”, and above all the seagull chanting, buzzing drones, megaphone vocals, free-association philosophizing, and varispeed tape effects of “Tomorrow Never Knows”. John Lennon’s contributions included “I’m only Sleeping”, “And Your Bird Can Sing”, “She Said She Said” and “Doctor Robert”. On “I’m Only Sleeping”; George Harrison plays the notes for the lead guitar (and for the second guitar in the solo) in reverse order, then reversed the tape and mixed it in. The backwards guitar sound has been said to “suspend the laws of time and motion to simulate the half-coherence of the state between wakefulness and sleep”.

According to Lennon, some of the lyrics of “She Said She Said” were taken almost verbatim from a conversation he had with actor Peter Fonda in August 1965, while he (Lennon), Harrison and Ringo Starr were under the influence of LSD at their rented house in Benedict Canyon (in Beverly Hills, California). During a conversation, Fonda said “I know what it’s like to be dead,” because as a boy he had almost died from a selfinflicted gunshot wound. Paul McCartney’s contributions to the album include the classic “Eleanor Rigby”, which was originally going to be called “Daisy Hawkins”. The fact that an actual person named Eleanor Rigby is buried in St. Peters Church Cemetery, in Woolton, Liverpool, yards from where John Lennon and Paul McCartney met for the first time, is a bizarre co-incidence.

Also bizarrely, the real Eleanor Rigby lived a lonely life similar to that of the person in the song. “Got to Get You into My Life” was influenced by the Motown Sound and used brass instrumentation extensively. Although cast in the form of a love song, McCartney described the song as an “ode to pot”.

McCartney mentioned in the 1989 radio series McCartney on McCartney that “Here, There and Everywhere” was inspired by American group The Beach Boys.

McCartney also contributed “Good Day Sunshine”, “Yellow Submarine” and “For No One”, a melancholy song featuring him playing an instrument called a clavichord.

He also played lead guitar on two tracks, one

being a guitar solo on “Taxman” and the other being a dual guitar part with George Harrison on “And Your Bird Can Sing” .The song “And Your Bird Can Sing” is primarily credited to be written by John Lennon, however Paul McCartney claims to have helped on the lyric, estimating the song as “80-20” to Lennon. Revolver was also a breakthrough album for George Harrison as a songwriter, and he contributed three songs on the album, including the opening track, “Taxman”. The song was a protest against the high marginal rates of income tax paid by high earners like the Beatles, which were sometimes as much as 95 percent of their income (hence the lyric, “There’s one for you, nineteen for me”). The “Mr Wilson” and “Mr Heath” referred to in the lyrics are Harold Wilson and Edward Heath, who were, respectively, the British Labour Prime Minister and Conservative Leader of the Opposition at the time. Harrison also wrote “I Want to Tell You”, about his difficulty expressing himself in words. “Love you To” marked a significant expansion of his burgeoning interest in Indian music and the sitar, which started with “Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)” on Rubber Soul.

It was the intro to “Love you To” that was playing in the background when Harrison’s character first appears in Yellow Submarine, the animated Beatles film released in 1968.

Ringo Starr’s only lead vocal on the album is the childlike “Yellow Submarine”. McCartney said that he wrote “Yellow Submarine” as a children’s son for Starr to sing. With the help of their EMI production team, The Beatles overdubbed stock sound effects they found in the Abbey Road Studios tape library. It reached number one on both the British chart and American chart and stayed at the top spot for seven weeks and six weeks, respectively. Placed at number 1 in the All-Time Top 1000 Albums and number 3 in the Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 Greatest Albums of all Time, Revolver is often regarded as one of the greatest achievements in music history and one of The Beatles’ greatest studio achievements.

I love the album and think it far superior to “Sgt Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band “the album held up as the definitive Beatles recording. Although sounding rather dated now it marked an innovative chapter of recording and musical artistry which inspired the next evolvement of music for many artists of the time.

You can listen to Mark Davies on Costa Calida International Radio, Mon, Wed and Fri evenings 7.00 till 9.00 on 90 and 100 FM or www.costacalidaradio.com

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

9

LOS AMIGOS DE MAZARRON FC 4TH ANNUAL GALA EVENING & DINNER Football celebrities Steve Daley and Tony Currie were in Mazarron for the Los Amigos de Mazarron FC 4th Annual Gala Evening and Dinner at the Hotel la Cumbre on 12th March.

Steve and Tony arrived in Spain on the Sunday with their respective wives Lyn and Elizabeth and enjoyed a most enjoyable few days in the Mazarron area. They both took part in the Celebrity Golf Day at the Sensol Golf Club the following morning in a Stableford competition which was won by Graham Davies. Graham received a green fee voucher, donated by Polaris World, from Steve Daley at the presentations which took place immediately following the golf. There were also prizes for nearest the pin and for the longest drive.

Later that evening Steve, Tony and their wives attended a VIP Reception at Don

The

Ricardo’s Bar & Restaurant, Puerto de Mazarron. The evening was organised to welcome them to Spain and to thanks all the sponsors and VIP guests who were supporting the Gala Evening. Ric and Claire Daibell once again provided a superb buffet which was enjoyed by the 50 guests.

The Gala Evening and Dinner on Tuesday was once again a fabulous occasion with the ladies looking splendid in their glittering dresses. Steve Daley was the guest speaker and the former Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester City player, earned a standing ovation for his hilarious stories, poking fun at himself for being labelled the “biggest waste of money in football history” following his record breaking transfer fee when he moved to Maine Road in 1979.

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Comedian Justin Sane did his usual excellent job as Master of Ceremonies and The Beagles provided the musical entertainment which saw the ladies dancing well into the early hours. There was a surprise guest, Sheikh M’Diq Bin Laden, who had travelled from the Middle East as a prospective buyer of Mazarron Football Club. Unfortunately, he explained through his interpreter, that he had been rendered penniless when his prize camel, which he had hoped to sell to help finance the prospective purchase, disappeared from outside TJ’s bar on Camposol where he was enjoying a quiet drink.

The event, which was sponsored by New Images, the No1 Hair & Beauty Salon and Nail Bar, Camposol and Ibex Insurance of Puerto de Mazarron, raised almost 2500€ in support of Mazarron Football Club.

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Solid start for Mat Ford-Dunn in 1st round of the Spanish Supermoto championship

With the first round of the Spanish Supermoto championship getting off to a rather wet start in Seville over the weekend, it was Murcia’s British expat Supermoto racer Mat FordDunn who came away with a superb rostrum finish despite the testing conditions.

The supermotoland race team had a busy week beforehand when Mat wrecked an engine in the final test before Seville and the team had to replace his race engine with a standard unit from his spare bike. The Seville race track featured some long straights that put Mat at a disadvantage with a less powerful engine.

After heavy overnight rain the race organisers had no option but to close the waterlogged dirt section of the track and the weekends racing was run entirely on the asphalt race circuit.

With wet and changeable weather throughout the days racing it was Mat that made the most of the tricky conditions in his first race to come from 5th on the grid to finish a very close 2nd, just behind the leader on the final lap. The second of Mat’s two races was looking at being a repeat performance until a small crash whilst in third position, saw Mat drop back to finish 6th at the flag.

The combined results gave Mat a superb 3rd overall and a podium position for the weekends racing.

Mat will next be racing In Villena, near Sax, Alicante for the 2nd round of the Spanish Supermoto championship on the 14th April, where he will be joined by his younger brother Anthony Ford-Dunn who will be competing in the first round of the SM Road championship. The supermotoland team and their Spanish and UK based Sponsors ‘Advance Moves International removals’ will be on hand to welcome anyone wishing to attend the race which will no doubt be a fantastic days racing.

Further race reports, videos and information can be found at the teams website www.supermotoland.com

FOR SALE

Modular park home, 80 sq metres, 3 bedrooms, 2 fully tiled shower rooms, lounge and fully-tiled kitchen diner.

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11

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

personal wellness

12

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

Our bodies really are amazing machines!! Did you know that every hurt, abuse, trauma, loss, betrayal, sensation of fear or being scared and the relevant feelings that are attached to all of these are recorded at an energetic and a cellular level by our bodies? Even when we have been verbally abused and or threatened our body keeps records of these incidents. It all gets encoded into our physiology……………our physical being. How? By leaving ‘electrical imprints’ These electrical imprints go beyond the normal processing of the mind. Image if we had it within us to repair ourselves? To ‘rewire our brain,’ as it were, to obtain relief from emotional conflicts and trauma. To bypass these ingrained electrical imprints. Well we can!

EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) enables us to do just that. EFT operates on the following ‘discovery statement’: “The cause of all negative emotions is a disruption in the body’s energy system.” For the body to be free from any of these negative disruptions we need to ‘rewire our brains’. That is to say, we need to make new connections, perceptions and understandings or interpretations. EFT allows us to free these disruptions enabling us to participate in the profound healing that is available to us and within us.

To do this we need to listen to our body. Our body is frequently emitting messages and thereby communicating with us. As we would be patient, caring and loving to a friend in need or distress, we also need to be the same with ourselves. We need to listen to what our body is telling us.

For example, pain of any kind is a very loud signal and is more often than not an unconscious process. Triggered in the nervous system it can be physiological, or psychological.

Pain can be dull, it can be sharp. It can be acute it can be chronic. It can be short lived or last for ages. It can nag at you, stab at you, annoy you, cause you to ache, to feel nauseous, it can at times be debilitating. Whether it is physical or emotional pain, one thing for sure is that it usually hurts!

One way to treat pain is through the use of the mind.

Consider chronic back pain for instance; chronic back pain can limit your everyday activities and make it difficult to do every day mundane tasks or even to work. It can therefore also affect how involved you are with friends, family and work mates as they may have to do more than their usual share of daily tasks, especially when you cannot do the things you normally do. This can cause feelings of frustration within you because you cannot do what you used to do; resentment because others can do more than you can, which ultimately, can lead to stress. These feelings and emotions can (and often do) aggravate or worsen your back pain. Why? Because of the mind-body relationship.

They work together – they are inextricably linked. The way your mind controls your thoughts and attitudes influences the way your

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body controls your pain. Both the pain itself, and /or the fear of pain, can cause you to avoid both physical and social activities. Over time this leads to less physical strength and weaker social relationships. It can also cause more lack of functioning and more pain. And so the cycle continues.

This can lead to depression which is very common among people who have chronic back pain for instance. Continual pain can cause depression or make existing depression worse and not surprisingly, depression can also make any pain worse. Even mild depression can affect how well you can manage your pain and stay active. So what is the answer?

Let’s return to EFT and the ‘discovery statement’ mentioned earlier: “The cause of all negative emotions is a disruption in the body’s energy system.” EFT has proven time and time again to be best tool to work with to combat not only depression but also chronic back; and if the two are linked as in the example above then EFT can clear both. EFT gets to the root cause of the negative emotions that disrupt the natural flow of the body’s energy system.

If you are in pain or think you may be depressed or if you are having a hard time controlling your emotions, it is best to get help sooner rather than later. If your pain is the result of an accident or emotional trauma, research has shown that some people are not able to fully deal with their pain until they deal with the emotional stress that their accident or trauma caused.

Let me help you. Why suffer any more when help is at hand? Call me on 660326194/968978876 or write to me at info@drewryder.com

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

15

16

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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

pause for thought

Friday, at the Albox Computer Club, I was asked how a letter, in Spanish, could be translated into English. I told the gentleman that the process was reasonably simple and here it is.

First, using your multifunction printer, dedicated scanner or next doors multifunction printer, scan the document. Next, save the scanned image to a picture file format (this is how it normally happens!).

From there import or load the picture file into an OCR (Optical Character Recognition) program. You have done all the hard work that is required of you, now for the computer to take over!

The program converts this picture into text which can be saved into a text file. Assuming that you have done this and saved the text file you have to start work again. OCR’s are not infallible and make mistakes too, so you have to check the saved text file against the original document.

Done? Great. Mistakes? None, even better.

You now have several choices, either go to the web and use something like “google.com/translate” or have your own translator programs on your computer. Either method needs the text putting in to the translation windows offered before the process can be started.

Quite simple when you break it down. If it appears difficult first time see just how quickly you become blasé about it after several successful attempts. Have you considered the twisted genius minds behind the idea of taking a photo and converting it into words?

What is a digital picture? It is a line of dots of various colours and shades, repeated many times, in different combinations, to create an image that your mind can interpret as an image. Our minds, as I have said before, are a masterful design. When we look at a picture what do we see? A man, a woman, a beautiful scene? Sorry to disappoint, but all you see is edges! Sure you see the edge of the picture, the boundary that draws your eye in to the middle of the scene.

Try this. Imagine, for example, a sports car parked in a grassy field with several trees in the distance. What do you see? First you scan the entire image searching for the edges of objects to assist in identifying them and putting the entire image into some kind of world perspective (what we all understand as “real”).

For now lets focus on the car. Start with the basic shape. We work that out, by looking for where a solid colour changes dramatically, Red car to Green grass. You now have an edge! Following the edge will give the outline.

We all understand what the rules are that make a car shape without anyone teaching them to us. Within this outline are other edges, bonnet, boot, doors, windows, wiper-blade, the list goes on! This, hopefully, will show what you are doing naturally.

Computers are thick. This we know already. They require exacting and specific rules to follow to achieve the same ends. Look at the word OF. The letter O has 2 edges, inside and outside. It is a circle, of sorts and F is also made up of 3 distinct lines. We all see a pattern that makes up the letter then the pattern for the words. One thing that we can do that computers can not do yet is tkae a wrod taht is not in oedrr and raed it pnrvoiidg the fsrit and lsat ltetres are in pcale.

To meet more twisted genii, come to the Albox Computer Club on Friday morning starts at 10. After all the gentleman who asked the question said that he had already got his yearly subscription’s worth back in one day! What a compliment. Have a great week – the weather looks like it might be changing for the better.

For further information or advice on computing, contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk

My daughters loved the Narnia books by C.S.Lewis, and a visit to the Cinema with Grandchildren was a foregone conclusion when the latest version of his book, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe was released.

The story of four children hiding in a wardrobe and being transported into the land of Narnia, where it was always winter but never Christmas, has delighted many children and adults ever since it was first written. The scene where Aslan (the lion) negotiates his own death in place of Edmund, whose life had been required by the White Witch as penalty for his treachery, brought tears of anguish to many eyes in the cinema. And the relief was apparent, as the ropes binding Aslan to the altar on which he’d been killed were broken, and he returned to life to destroy the witch and her forces. But of course that story, as well as being a good read in its own right, has far deeper meaning, especially for Christians as we approach the Easter period, when we remember Jesus similarly giving his life so that we might be spared.

A friend recently asked ‘If God is so loving and Merciful; then why did he cause Jesus to die?’ A tough question, with which many can probably relate. But although it’s true that God is both loving and merciful, these are not his only attributes. We often forget that God is also Holy and pure, so no impurity can exist in his presence. And just as he cannot, without endangering the entire universe, break his physical laws (can you imagine what would happen if God switched off Gravity for a few seconds to save someone’s life?), so similarly he cannot simply ignore his Spiritual laws and close his eyes to all the wrong we’ve thought, said or done. It was for this reason, Christians believe, that Jesus came to Earth; to live a perfect life and die in our place (as Aslan did for Edmund), so that our relationship with him may be restored.

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

Plans to turn The Gherkin into a gherkin

Plans have been unveiled to inject a dose of fun into London’s skyline by transforming The Gherkin into a giant green pickle.

Online bingo site Jackpotjoy.com has approached staff at 30 St Mary Axe with the bizarre request of giving the 180m high building a make-over.

They want to turn the landmark into a gherkin on April Fool’s Day by projecting the image of knobbly green skin onto the building.

Michael Saunders, managing director of Jackpotjoy.com, said: “It’s been a long and rather miserable winter and we felt everyone was in dire need of cheering up again!

“The Gherkin is such an iconic building and with a name like that we just couldn’t resist the opportunity for some more daft fun by attempting to transform it into the very thing it is so aptly named after.”

He says it would take a team of 10 workers 900 man hours to cover the building in a special film to create the non-reflective surface needed for the pickle projection.

Designers were commissioned to create mock-ups which were submitted to the building’s owners along with an official application for permission for the stunt.

Boing – Spring has Sprung!

For many visitors to Almeria the baking hot summer months are the only time they experience this beautiful region. By then the sun has done its work and all the spring flowers and grasses have been scorched brown and other plants have also lost their leaves. The last remnants of green come from cactus, olive and eucalyptus trees. The leaves on the almond trees have also given up the ghost by July leaving just the drying husks containing the tasty fruit hanging from their dead looking branches.

For year round inhabitants we have a much more pleasurable experience as once the first rains (or hurricane) have penetrated the baked soils in the autumn, slowly the hills are again blanketed green. Then soon after Christmas, Mother Nature treats us all to a spectacular display of almond blossom which in higher areas can last until late February.

Having just experienced my seventh consecutive Almerian winter I think we were all spoiled this time round by dry and warm daytimes until the weather turned a few weeks ago. At times snow could be seen on the highest peaks; just above Bar Trinidad in Arboleas is a great viewpoint for the Sierra de Baza, over 75kms distant which are covered in snow. Old hands will recall the winter of 2006/7 when in late January there was a heat wave and then suddenly the temperature dropped like a stone and the whole of Spain was blanketed in snow. I remember hearing the rain tapping against the window panes all Friday evening and suddenly at midnight all went quiet as the temperature had dropped enough for the rain to turn to snow. Locals had not seen anything like it for fifty years and we foreign invaders had left Britain to escape that sort of thing.

Luckily when I first started to search for a property to buy back in 2004 it was winter and there were some really hard frosts and I saw ice on the roads in some higher up places so I knew the weather could turn frigid and so installed a lovely Hergom log burner when finally the cortijo was bought and restored.

We are midway through March now and spring has

certainly sprung with beautiful flowers to be admired all around. The awful black scars left by last year’s wildfire in Bedar and many other places across Spain need as much rain as possible to heal over. The grasses, retamar and palms were the first to recover, with new leaves also appearing on the olives and eucalyptus. In Cortijo Grande apart from the odd charred tree stump it’s hard to see any sign the devastation caused almost 4 years ago as now it’s a riot of blooming flowers with all shades and hues of green thrown in for good measure. I saw my first flowering orchid just a few days ago in the hills behind Lubrin and will now seek out more from the secret places I have discovered over the years.

And finally, I know the Spanish like wearing bright red clothing, but one thing that puzzles me is the reasoning behind owning a daffodil yellow coloured car. I often see them but cannot for the life of me fathom why anyone would willingly drive around in a banana on wheels. If any reader knows what the attraction is kindly let me know!

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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...take care of your pets Huerca - Overa Veterinary Centre is run by Husband and wife team Angel and Elena who both speak an excellent level of English.

Since May 2011, they have offered an invaluable service to the pets in the area. The veterinary Centre can help and advise you on any concerns that you may have about your pets welfare. In particular now that the weather is getting warmer remember there will be more parasites about such as fleas, ticks and sand flies. As always it is necessary to use a system to prevent them and the illness that they cause by the use of Pipetes and Collars. Also we now provide the new vaccination against leishmania. With this vaccination we will do the leish test for free. Now is the best time to prepare your dogs for the spring and summer so why not make an appointment to come along and see us now. Dog and cat grooming services are now available. For more information or to book and appointment call 950 61 67

rooms for the cats. In the kennels, the emphasis is on safety as well as comfort – all the dogs sleep indoors to prevent sand fly bites and leishmaniasis but have private outside areas during the day. If you want the best for your pet, contact the Bo and Antoinette – 639 722 197 or info@animalhotel.es – and make a booking or arrange to drop by and see the accommodation for yourself. The Animal Hotel can be found on Facebook or at www.AnimalHotel.es

range of quality pet foods in store including products by Kiki, Royal Canin, Brekkies and Advance just to name a few. Why not take a trip to Olula and pay them a visit, you will not be disappointed. Give Ben a call now on 687 497 892

woodhouse boarding kennels & cattery arboleas

Comercial Carmona in Olula del Rio have the pet store that we all love to visit. Ben, the store manager is English and a true animal lover that also an extensive knowledge of fish keeping, reptiles and birds. Having kept fish for over 15 years in the UK and here in Spain, Ben prides himself on being able to offer helpful advice to anyone buying new fish stock or equipment. They also have a huge

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

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You may already know Tracey and her husband Bob from the television programme Living the Dream. They are now running WOODHOUSE BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY 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.

Cats and dogs receive 5-star treatment at the Animal Hotel, near Águilas. Bo and Antoinette have designed the unique accommodation which even includes the option of communal living

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18

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

lo ok g o o d f eel g r ea T Could manuka honey beat drug-resistant superbugs?

It is a natural medicine used for thousands of years to clean wounds and fight bacteria. Now, however, honey could hold the key to combating the very modern threat of drug-resistant superbugs.

A study has shown that manuka honey can fight back on two fronts. Not only can it help to kill MRSA and other superbugs, it can also prevent bacteria from becoming resistant to antibiotics.

The danger of the rise of bugs which do not succumb to drugs was outlined this month by the Chief Medical Officer. Professor Dame Sally Davies described it as a ‘ticking timebomb’ which could leave millions vulnerable to untreatable germs within a generation.

But a study in Australia offers a solution. At the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), tests were carried out on manuka, kanuka and clover honeys to find which was best at treating bacteria commonly found in chronic skin wounds. Researchers looked at key ingredients known to inhibit bacterial growth.

The best at doing this was Comvita medical-grade manuka honey, made by bees foraging on New Zealand’s manuka trees.

When combined with common antibiotics, the treatment hampered the spread of bacteria on wounds.

Crucially, scientists found the honey prevented the bugs from

developing any resistance to the antibiotic.

Professor Liz Harry, of UTS, said: ‘Manuka honey should be used as a first resort for wound treatment, rather than the last resort, as it so often is.’

The research, in the journal PLOS ONE, follows a previous study which found that the honey was effective against more than 80 types of bacteria, including MRSA. Commercial honey bought at shops is not suitable as it needs to be sterilised to make it medical grade.

Infections are becoming more difficult to defeat but no new class of antibiotic has been discovered since the 1980s.

It follows a previous study that found manuka honey is effective against more than 80 different types of bacteria, including hospital superbug MRSA. Professor Liz Harry at UTS said: ‘We have shown bacteria do not become resistant to honey in the laboratory. Consistent with these facts, we also found that if MRSA were treated with just rifampicin [antibiotic], the superbug became resistant very quickly,’ she said.

‘However, when manuka honey and rifampicin are used in combination to treat MRSA, rifampicin-resistant MRSA did not emerge. In other words, honey somehow prevents the emergence of rifampicin-resistant MRSA – this is a hugely

important finding.’

With overuse of antibiotics partly blamed for the increase in resistant superbugs, GPs will be asked to prescribe fewer antibiotics to patients.

And while infections are becoming increasingly difficult to beat, no new class of antibiotic has been discovered since the 1980s.

Dr Harry added: ‘With the existence now of bacteria that are resistant to all available antibiotics, and the death of new antibiotics on the market, manuka honey should be used as a first resort for wound treatment, rather than the last resort as it so often does.

‘What we need is an acceptance by society that antibiotics are not going to provide all that we hoped for when they were discovered in the 1940s; and that we need to start getting very serious about using alternatives to this, or use honey in addition to them.’

While all types of honey have some antibacterial properties, the ingredients of manuka honey make it particularly powerful.

It is possible to buy dressings that already contain the honey, as well apply honey directly to bandages and other dressings.

However, supermarket honey will not do. Any honey used be sterilised to make it of medical grade.

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

NEW RESEARCH: Sleeping pills could actually IMPROVE your memory

Taking sleeping tablets could help improve your memory, according to controversial new research.

A team of researchers claim to have discovered the mechanism that enables the brain to build-up memories – and say they found that a commonly prescribed sleeping tablet containing zolpidem enhances this process. They hope the discovery could lead to new sleep therapies that could improve memory for ageing adults and those with dementia, Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia.

The findings contradict a wealth of previous research that has suggested that sleeping pills can have devastating effects on health, including memory. The new research claims to have demonstrated, for the first time, the critical role that sleep spindles play in consolidating memory in the hippocampus.

Sleep spindles are bursts of brain activity that last for a second or less during sleep. Earlier research found a link between sleep spindles and the consolidation of memories that depend on the hippocampus, the part of the brain that is involved in memory forming, organising, and storing. The research team say they showed that the drugs could significantly improve that process, far more than sleep alone.

Lead author of the study, Dr Sara Mednick, a psychologist from the University of California Riverside, said: ‘We found that a very common sleep drug can be used to increase memory: ‘This

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is the first study to show you can manipulate sleep to improve memory. It suggests sleep drugs could be a powerful tool to tailor sleep to particular memory disorders.’

But previous research has suggested that sleeping pills taken by more than a million Britons significantly increase the risk of dementia. Pensioners who used benzodiazepines – which include temazepam and diazepam – are 50 per cent more likely to succumb to the devastating illness, a Harvard University study found. They work by changing the way messages are transmitted to the brain, which induces a calming effect but scientists believe that at the same time they may be interfering with chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters, which may be causing dementia.

The new study tested normal sleepers, who were given varying doses of sleeping pills and placebos, allowing several days between doses to allow the drugs to leave their bodies.

Researchers monitored their sleep, measured sleepiness and mood after napping, and used several tests to evaluate their memory. They found that zolpidem significantly increased the density of sleep spindles and improved verbal memory consolidation.

Dr Mednick said: ‘Zolpidem enhanced sleep spindles in healthy adults producing exceptional memory performance beyond that seen with sleep alone or sleep with the comparison drug.

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‘The results set the stage for targeted treatment of memory impairments as well as the possibility of exceptional memory improvement above that of a normal sleep period.’

Dr Mednick also hopes to study the impact of zolpidem on older adults who experience poor memory because individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia and schizophrenia are known experience decreases in sleep spindles.

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Dr Mednick, who began studying sleep in the early 2000s, says sleep is a very new field of research and its importance is generally not taught in medical schools.

‘We know very little about it,’ she said.

‘We do know that it affects behaviour, and we know that sleep is integral to a lot of disorders with memory problems.

‘We need to integrate sleep into medical diagnoses and treatment strategies. This research opens up a lot of possibilities.’

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THE SPAINIAC | Semana Santa | Candice Parsons Cross) institutionalized.

http://joca83.floost.com/images/1335376920.0857_4970_Semana_Santa_%28Grana%29-29.jpg

Enlightened and inspired, he mandated that each year this religious representation be celebrated by a commemorative procession.

The single processions commemorated each year were eventually broken up into a series of various processions and spread over the duration of Semana Santa, all illustrating the respective scenes of the passion.

With Easter around the corner, not acknowledging the Semana Santa - or ‘Holy Week’ - would be to not acknowledge one of the most celebrated national traditions of Spain.

Subjectively derived from the death of Christ, the

tradition is said to have first begun in Salamanca during 1240, when the first brotherhood of the city was formed.

Known as the ‘cofrades’ or members of the ‘cofradías’ in Spanish – these religious associations continue to exist and endorse the

national annual Easter celebrations held today.

The other significant year behind Semana Santa, was 1521, when Marqués de Tarifa returned to Spain from his journey to the Holy Land, and had the Vía Crucis (Stations of the

Over time, this has now evolved into the elaborate Semana Santa celebrations that we will see celebrated all over Spain this Easter.

The street celebrations are known to be at their most extravagant in Andalusia, especially Seville.

However, extravagance aside, it may be arguably more traditional to witness the celebrations in cities of the Castilla-Leon region,

such Salamanca, Valladolid, Avila, Zamora or Segovia.

Each brotherhood in the cities holding processions will make up their own floats to be carried, which are usually very heavy, lifesize wooden sculptures that honour the final days of Jesus Christ before his crucifixion.

Colourful and detailed paintings are also carried in the processions, generally of imagery depicting the grief and sorrow felt by Mother Mary during the time of her Son Jesus being crucified.

Medieval in style, detailed and colourful clothing garments are worn by the participants, know as ‘nazarenos’ in these processions. Nazarenos’ clothing will most likely

consist of a cloak, tunic and a hood that hides their faces.

The hoods have at times caused alarm in the past, due to theirsimilar resemblance to the Ku Klux Klan attire, but it must be noted that the two groups are completely unrelated and separate commemorations!

Unsurprisingly, Semana Santa has been declared as an event of International Touristic Interest. It is an age-old tradition in Spain that continues to encompass a valuable experience of an important and distinctively contributing area to much of Spanish culture and history: religion.

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

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IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED IF YOU ARE A TAX RESIDENT: YOU NEED TO FILE FORM 720 DECLARING YOUR ASSETS WORLDWIDE RISKING HEAVY PENALTIES IF YOU DO NOT DO SO

Q.

I have heard that I need to present a declaration to the tax office declaring my assets in

other countries. Surely this cannot be true?

A. It is correct. Orden HAP/72/2013 of 30th of January has brought to life form 720, which needs to be filled

in by all residents of Spain who have assets abroad worth more than 50,000 euros. This form must be presented before the end of April with severe penalties for not doing so.

All resident of Spain shall provide the Spanish tax administration with the following information: 1. Information of bank accounts you may have abroad, already in your name, or have authorization or rights to at any time of the year which corresponds to the declaration. The information shall include:

• The full name and address of the bank.

• Full identification of the accounts.

• The opening or cancellation date, or if applicable, grant and revocation as authorized.

• The average balances of the last trimester and the corresponding average balances for the last trimester of the year 2. Information on securities, assets, values or rights representing the equities of all types of entities, or transfer own equities to a third party, of which they own and are abroad, as well as life insurance and life annuity policy holders or beneficiaries of temporary policies. In this case, the information must include, in addition to the identification of the entity, the balance on December 31st, the number and class of such assets.

3. Information on real estate located abroad. This last section will contain the following statement:

• Type of property.

• Property location: country, city, street and number.

• Date of purchase & Value of purchase.

The presentation in subsequent years will only be required when the value of the assets and rights have experienced an increase of over 20,000 euro on the determined value of the last statement made.

The information shall be declared in the new model 720 from February 1st to April 30th 2013 for the data of the fiscal year 2012. Starting from the next fiscal year the declaration should be presented between the dates January 1st & March 31st.

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.

22

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

turning circle and he endeavours to blend Del, our little car, has served us well inconspicuously into the background since he became a family member in and not add to my embarrassment when 2006. He is ready for action at the turn I park him in a truly Spanish manner – at of his key, goes where pointed without a jaunty angle a generous stride from the prevarication and gobbles up the miles pavement! of motorway surprisingly briskly for one I seem to have lost the ability to park so small. neatly next to the kerb; nowadays Del He requires little nourishment in looks more abandoned than parked! the form of diesel, and his health has Recently, however, he has developed (cross fingers) been robust. He fulfils a vicious streak - he has taken to biting the demands of the ITV with minimum me! intervention from the Car Doctor, and He first bit me some days ago. I pulled currently sports a smart new sticker him up on a waste space, euphemistically saying that he may traverse the King’s called ‘unsurfaced parking’, climbed out Highway with the blessing of the Law with my normal hermit-crab-emerginguntil 2015. from-its-shell lack of elegance, and went Del and I are to close his door. generally in accord – I As I touched his door to push it to he make allowances for bit me – a sharp electric shock, enough his ridiculously large to make me physically jump.

I thought no more about it, but he did it again. In fact he has taken to doing it josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk every time I get out and touch his door

By Jos Biggs

to close it. He doesn’t do it when I open his door to get in, only when I go to get out and close it after me.

What is the matter with him? Why has he suddenly turned on me after a harmonious relationship of so many years?

Now to close Del’s door without getting bitten I slam the door shut with my elbow while simultaneously executing a smart backwards half pirouette to bring me out of his reach.

It doesn’t work, but it is very similar to the contortions of Ronnie Barker’s character Arkwright in Open All Hours, who has a till that bites him when he shuts it.

I need to get this situation sorted out soon – I fear that my precipitous prancing will bring me to the attention of the kind men in white coats.

Or at the very least, people will start shouting out ‘F-fetch a cloth, Granville’ when they see me!

Open Up Your Sumo Please Sir

All women seem to like men in uniforms, or so it is said.

And if the number of little gum chewing; crew-cutted infants running around the streets of England in the late forties was anything to go by, then this would lend much weight to the idea.

Even us chaps have to admit that there is something about those guys whose hands we place ourselves in when flying off to some far flung destination, when we see them strutting through the airport terminal in their natty pilots gear and gold

braid, accompanied by a gaggle of leggy female members of the cabin staff.

I have met a few of these blokes at parties when they have had stop-over’s on long haul flights and I can confirm that without their smart Qantas or Delta attire, they are no different from the rest of us which thereby validates the ‘men look good in uniforms’ thing.

Part of the attraction though, is due to the added confidence, or in some cases arrogance, that donning a uniform gives to the wearer. There is a self assurance that comes shining through and cannot fail to impress the observer and invoke admiration and at times trepidation. I know that a little shiver of apprehension shimmies its way down my spine, when I see that distinctive Guardia livery at the side of the

By Colin Bird : badbirdnow@gmail.com

250

road. Complete with their Doc Martins boots and distinctive military style peaked caps, they are the epitome of smart and implacable efficiency. And always of course finished off with the aviator shades, which I have noticed they sometimes still wear at night.

I mean . . . hard or what?

But that’s ok; the appearance of these guys has the desired and necessary effect – instant respect and a sudden desire to pass water.

The overpowering desire to visit the rest room when confronted by a uniformed customs officer was something that I personally experienced at Heathrow many years ago. It was the only time in my life when my rights were read to me and I had my collar metaphorically felt.

I was returning to England after spending years working in a foreign land and my luggage

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was packed with the accumulated clothing, toiletries and other items that amass under such circumstances.

My cases resembled two Sumo wrestlers with handles (no luggage with wheels in those days) but having conformed to all British Airways terms and conditions, I had not anticipated problems.

But I was flustered on that particular November morning because my wife to be – the waif-like Janet – was arriving within a half hour of my own flight touching down. Hers from Bermuda and mine from Philadelphia.

My edginess must have been noticed by the man with the Customs & Excise insignia on his cap – a small man made large by the uniform and the power that this gave him – who singled me out for inspection.

After painstakingly rifling through my cabin bag, he openly smirked as he ordered me to heave my suitcases on to the counter and open them. He was enjoying himself.

It had taken the weight of two people and some very bad language to shoe horn everything into my cases twenty four hours earlier and it was obvious what would happen.

And sure enough just like a can of beer that had been shaken vigorously prior to popping the tab, my belongings spilled out over the counter and floor of the customs hall in an avalanche of fabric. It was like an explosion in a laundromat and there was an almost audible sigh of relief from my liberated budgie smugglers.

After giving my belongings

John MacDonald (El Sordo) - www.caratacus.eu

The Arkwright Effect

viewpoint alqueria - The Prophesy

Some three hundred years ago a wise and learned man resided in Alqueria. That is to say he was wise and learned compared to the norm in the village. He mastered joined-up writing and could walk and talk at the same time. El Creído was his name and this relatively erudite individual was universally disliked. The simple folk of the Pueblo didn’t understand him and therefore feared him. He was hounded out of his home and his town. As he left a comet was seen bright in the night sky. El Creído prophesied that when the comet returned to Alqueria a catastrophe of biblical proportions would engulf the village.

The comet is now known as the Grungbucket Comet. Named after Sidney Grungbucket of Penge. He catalogued the comet when it was first seen over southern Britain twenty or so years ago. According to his calculations the periodic body is due over southern Spain within the week.

Word spread quickly through the village. The population attempted to abandon their homes and cross the border into Spain. The Spanish authorities, being alive to the situation closed all crossing points.

Unable to leave they settled for partying. Partying as if the end was nigh. Manuela was in her element and moved from one shindig to another. If anyone says they remember the parties of that night then it’s a certain bet they weren’t there. For months the village priest struggled to convert the drunkenness and copulation of the ‘night of the comet’ into the more sedately forms of heavy drinking and mild fore-play.

The Grungbucket Comet duly appeared bright and big in the northern sky. Clouds gathered and gave vent to a storm of Wagnerian proportions. Rain, lightning, and thunder shook the windows and rattled the walls of Alquerian homes. The comet shone brightly through the black cloud as if mocking the Alquerian people below.

The village trembled as the tempest raged. It lasted until the first spears of the morning sun found their way through the valleys of the high sierra.

The population tentatively examined their village, their homes and themselves. All was well apart from everything being extremely wet. If there isn’t such a thing as a collective consciousness then the reality became obvious to all simultaneously.

The horrible truth is that no catastrophe of whatever proportions could do any damage to Alqueria. The village with its perma-fog, perma-pong and evil smelling Río Verde is such a disagreeable place that any modification no matter how caused would probably be an improvement.

a cursory examination, he motioned for me to leave everything except for my cabin bag and to follow him and another officer to an interrogation room where he proceeded to read me my rights: you are not obliged to say anything etc. etc.

It turned out that he did not believe that a camera I had acquired on my travels, was bought second hand (which it was) and not purchased new, which would have required duty to be paid.

But the worst example of the abuse of power by a uniformed officer, was on a recent trip to

America where an immigration official from hell confronted us at Los Angeles LAX. He proceeded to interrogate us aggressively and in a highly insulting manner, with the clear intention of going all out to bait me. The objective, I suspect, was to encourage me to come back at him verbally so that he could exercise his authority to turn us around and put us on the next plane home.

But I kept my temper for once.

As my friend who lives in California later observed: if the pay is chicken feed, you’ll get turkeys!

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

23

http://www.unique-almeria.com

SPOTLIGHT: Mojacar DOMESTIC APPLIANCE ENGINEER At Ventanas y Puertas (Mojacar blinds, mosquito screens, metalworks, Windows) Home Improvement Centre, composite entrance doors and much, we aim to provide quality products at much more. reasonable prices and to always give a personal and professional ser vice. We P. R. BUILDING SERVICES have been have a modern, bright showroom with trading in Spain for over 4 years now English and Spanish speaking staff who and currently have a list of very satisfied will help you from your initial enquiry to customers, we cover all aspects of building completion. The owner of the business, from foundations to roof including the Michael Baxter has had over 40 years supplying and installation of kitchens experience in the building industry and and bathrooms, Air Conditioning, oversees everything to ensure that all work is done to the highest standard. plumbing and electrics. Having been in We have been ser ving property owners the Industry for over 18yrs there are no in Mojacar and the surrounding areas limitations to our ser vice. For a friendly for over 5 years. We specialize in high Professional Reliable Ser vice please don’t quality PVC-U windows and doors and hesitate to contact Richard on 662 422 are the area´s only agents for HOCO 170 references and viewing of previous (part of the HAAS group of Germany) works can be arranged. whose products are all made especially for the Local, National Spanish climate. We also & international have a superb kitchen department where we removals REMOVALS offer first class design and Quality Second hand & STORAGE fitting complete with all furniture showroom necessary tiling, plumbing 263 Paseo del Mediterraneo and electrics. We sell Mojacar Playa, Next to Sal Marina Hotel shower screens, columns Mon-Sat: 10am-2pm and shower trays and HUGE Call Marc on 647 006 183 undertake all bathroom or Jo on 600 344 565 265m2 refurbishments from or e-mail enquiries@delimas.biz Showroom design to completion. We www.delimas.biz fortnightly SERVICE TO & FROM UK FULL OR PART LOADS also sell shutters, internal

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Sunday Lunch 2 courses 10.50€ 3 courses 13.50€

to advertise on this page call Rosemary on 647 379 795 or our sales office on 950 121 936

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24

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

25

age concern events

Every month sees two regular events. Down at the Cultural Centre on Sector A of Camposol, there is a talking shop social the first Wednesday of the month. On the third of April this will take the form of an Easter Special! They generally start at 1.30PK and last until 4PM, with plenty of opportunities to chat to friends, have a coffee, play some games, often a quiz. They are free. You can pop in any time.

At the other end of the month lies the Menu Del Dia. These take place at different restaurants, always start at 1.30PM, involve a meal and entertainment. Sometimes the entertainment is musical, but Play Your Cards Right and quizzes have been known as well. The entertainment takes place after the food. March’s was at the Playa Grande in Puerto Mazarron. Generally there are forty to fifty participants!

They have become an established part of Mazarron’s social scene. They cost 10 Euros a head and are always the last Wednesday in the month.

Friday 19th April has Age Concern’s Rock n’Roll night. Held at Marianos on Camposol and costing 5Euros for the entertainment and another 5 if you want chicken and chips. It’s a great night out., you can sit and listen or chat, or dance the night away. April also has yet one more popular day out, a shopping trip to Murcia. Do some shopping without worrying about driving or the cost of petrol.

The trips 10 Euros!

The summer Fair at El Lagarto Verde on the via Axial in the port is on June 3rd.

You approach it by turning right at the El Arbor roundabout, and proceeding along the road until you are about half way. Its by the cinema. This is a very popular event, there is always some excellent food and usually over thirty stalls.

It’s a great morning or afternoon out since it opens from11AM until 4PM. You can lunch or brunch there! Contact Age Concern if you want to book a stall.

Why not contact Age Concern and become one of their volunteers? Ring or visit and find out more. 10 Euros makes you a friend and again all you have to is to make contact by phone or visit. Advice/information/tickets will be available at the Cultural Centre, Wednesday and Thursday AM, 10 while 1PM. On a Friday it will run from 12.30PM to 3.30PM.. Tickets will also be available Friday morning 10 while 1PM outside Salud on sector B Camposol will still be a ticket point, with a bric a brac sale on the last Friday of the month. For advice, information, and tickets in the port please ring 634 336 484. For Camposol ring 634 310 215 Rod Sawyer

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

property guide....

Home Rental Prices Steady According to the latest data released by the National Statistics Institute, the average price of renting a home in Spain, is practically frozen. The Institute reported that rents rose just 0.1% in February compared with the same month of 2012.

This increase in rental prices stands 2.7 points below the general consumer price index, which stood at 2.8% in February. Moreover,

month-on-month the cost of home rentals remained unchanged.

Rental prices lowered in nine regions, year-onyear, in February. The largest decreases were registered in Navarra (1.8%) and Murcia (-1.6%), followed by La Rioja (0.9%), Madrid (-0.9%), Valencia (-0.6%), Aragon (-0.3%), the Canary Islands (-0.2), CastillaLa Mancha (-0.2%) and Andalusia (-0.1%).

On the other hand, El

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Mundo

reported

that

rental prices increased most

in

Ceuta,

O Olive

Lubrin (El Marchal)

with

+1.5%, followed by Galicia (+1%), Catalonia (+1%), Melilla (+1%), the Basque Country (+0.8%), Castilla y León (+0.7%), the Balearic Islands (+0.5%), Asturias (+0.5%),

Cantabria (+0.5%) and Extremadura (+0.2%).

By province, the Institute’s data highlighted the declines in Castellón (-2.2%), Segovia (-1.7%) and

Cordoba (-1.6%), and the increases in Burgos (+1.5%) and Barcelona (+1.2%).

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Is the EU Recession Affecting Spanish Tourism?

DIY is born!

April 1957, Good Housekeeping

Back in 1957 DIY was relatively new. Here’s how Good Housekeeping magazine (launched back in the 1920s) recommended that its readers approach the DIY concept...

“

Each year, in the spring, housewives turn their thoughts to decorating and renovating their homes. More and more we are urged to ‘do it ourselves’, and this trend is supported by manufacturers who make a wide range of paints and papers which are easy to apply and many tools to help the amateur. In fact, there is so much for the unskilled and semi-skilled that it is not easy to choose materials and tools correctly. We give here some helpful pointers for wise buying. The following is a selection of equipment which the home handyman will want.

Buckets: Plastic buckets are light and easy to handle.

Sponges: Cellulose sponges are made in many different sizes. They are hard wearing and very absorbent.

Gloves: Rubber or plastic gloves will protect your hands. Lined plastic gloves are very strong and a good choice for the tougher jobs involving the use of steel wool, etc. Rubber gloves are more pliable; the gauntlet shape gives added protection when reaching up to do high work. If you are one of those people who can’t bear to work in gloves, use a good barrier cream.

Don’t forget to supply your self amply with rags and dust sheets.

”

Tourism, one of the two engines buoying the Spanish economy, is beginning to show signs it is being affected by the eurozone recession and has now registered four consecutive months of declines in the number of foreign tourist arrivals, with the exception of the ‘zero growth’ registered for November.

The negative trend, which began with the decline of 3.2% recorded in October of last year, seemed to slow down with the zero growth (0.2%) recorded in November, only to fall again by 1.3% in December and by 2.6% in January, according to the latest official data.

Tourist arrivals thus fell by 1.7% in the last quarter and, unlike the fall of April, which was explained by the change in dates of Easter week, this time there was no seasonal factor to account for the negative trend.

In addition, the arrivals of tourists from the United Kingdom and Germany, Spain’s first two source markets, registered more significant declines, falling by 4.6% and 6%, respectively, in the month of January. This is suggested to be due to the negative growth of their economy in the last three months and rising unemployment beginning to affect their travel demands.

Also notable are the declines of 29.3% in tourist arrivals from Italy (accumulating six months of decreases), and of 22% in tourist arrivals from the Netherlands.

These four source markets account for 43.3% of all international tourists in Spain.

In the last month, the only major country to improve its tourist arrivals to Spain is France, the third largest source market providing 15.3% of the total, which grew by 6.7%, and continues the growth trend

shown in 2012. The closeness between the two countries and the possibility of access by road are the reasons for this increase in French tourists, the majority of whom head for Catalonia, while those choosing Andalusia as their destination decreased in number.

By destination, El Economista reported that the Canary Islands, Andalusia and Madrid are the regions most affected due to the drop in the number of German and British tourists.

The decline of the German economy is also reflected in the spending of the German tourists in Spain, which fell by 3.9% during the month of January.

In contrast, British tourists’ spending increased by 2.3% despite the decline in arrivals.

Interestingly, despite the decline in the number of tourist arrivals, the volume of international tourist spending rose by 6.5% in January to 2,826 million euros, compared to a year earlier. An apparent contradiction due to the increase in VAT – which took effect in July – and transport prices and, to a lesser extent, by the boost in spending by tourists from France, Scandinavia and Latin America, which was accompanied by a significant increase in arrivals, although in the case of the Latin Americans their contribution to the total number of arrivals is still relatively insignificant.

Average spending per person also increased by 88 euros, compared to January 2012, while the average daily expenditure was 10 euros more.

Sources from the Ministry of Tourism admitted, however, that if the transport expenditure component was subtracted, the increases, although still positive, would be gentler.

ARTICLE COURTESY OF KYERO.COM - FOR ALL THE LATEST PROPERTY NEWS

Steps: These are essential for practically all home decorating. Obviously they must be safe, steady and tall enough to enable you to reach the highest point on your walls.

A table is necessary if you are papering.

27

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

COMERCIAL CARMONA

E H I J O S

YOUR BRIGHTEN LIFE

Comercial Carmona opens its doors to a new service for the region Lamps Decoration WHOLSALE LED Lighting PRICES Shop Lighting Open all Day (no siesta)

Located on the High Street

Huge Bathroom Showroom Located in the Warehouse

Cement sack 25kg

Bathroom furniture

from only English Speaking Telephone ben

687 497 892

olula del rio

From Albox on A334 do not turn off for Olula Mercadona, take the turning after the Tanatorio

tanatorio

4 a33

albox

a334

mercadona

We are here comercial carmona warehouse & petshop

OPEN: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8.30am-2pm and 3.30pm -8.30pm Sat 8.30am - 2pm

Olula Tel: 950 441 973

3€ The new lighting store is olula located in the Olula Town Centre just up from the BP del rio Garage on the main street tanatorio 54 km

54 km

baza

Olula Fines del rio

99€

Olula Fines del rio

albox

a334

mercadona

baza 4

a33

BP comercial carmona Lighting Store

We are here

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 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 Cortijo Grande

€39,950

Huerta Nueva

€75,000

Mojacar playa

€75,000

1 bed / 1 bath Apartment in the heart of the Golf within 5 min drive to amenities. Build 50 m². New fitted kitchen. Ref. 1019

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

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

Mojacar playa

El Largo

mojacar playa

€90,000

€94,950

€99,950

reduced

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

mojacar playa

€135,000

Cortijo Grande reduced

€80,000

2 bed / 2 bath charming end of terrace Townhouse with golf and mountains views.

Terrace & solarium. Ref. 1448

Villaricos

€109,950

reduced

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

3 bed / 2 bath Apartment with sea views walking distance to beach. Terrace: aprox. 50 m². Store room. Communal pool. Ref. 1167

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

Mojacar Playa

Villaricos

Palomares

€149,000

€169,000

€175,000

2 bed / 1 bath semi-detached Villa on plot of 246 m² within 100 meters to beach. Store room & solarium with views. Ref. 1052

End of terrace 2 bed / 2 bath Townhouse with sea views within walking distance to beach.

Communal pool & parking. Ref. 1234

Luxurious 2 bed / 2 bath Townhouse on beautiful first line complex. Terrace & solarium with sea views. Underground parking. Ref. 1048

3 bed / 3 bath semi detached Townhouse with large underground garage. Terraces, gardens & solarium. No community charges. Ref. 1053

Mojacar Playa reduced

Cabrera

Mojacar, Huerta €249,950 reduced

Mojacar Playa reduced

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

Amazing views. Ref 1062

€190,000

€199,950

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

2 bed / 2 bath charming Villa with amazing coastal views. Plot 180 m². Air con & fire place. Communal pool. Ref 1035

3 bed / 2 bath charming detached House with garage on Plot of 7.000 m² within 5 min drive to beach. Bargain! Ref 1196

mojacar playa reduced

Turre

vera

€299,950

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

€349,950

Amazing 3 bed / 3 bath Villa on plot of 960 m² at the entrance of Agua Nueva. Terrace with beautiful views & pool. Ref 1106

€360,000

3 bed / 3 bath well designed Villa with pool, landscaped gardens & garage on plot of 10.000 m² within few min. drive to town. Ref 1029

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.

€295,000

29

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

showbar & restaurant

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

Fantastic new menu of the day only 10€ per person

MAD

MONDAYS

Chicken, Chips, Salad & a Bottle of Wine per 2 People

12€ Eagles Tribute Friday 12th April Only

telephone: 950 473 135

mojacar playa between Lua & Moma Beach Open 10am till late 7 days a week

Los Mellizos Restaurant La Alfoquia, Zurgena

We have a new chef and a new Menu !

EASTER SUNDAY MENU

Please book early to avoid disappointment

Open Mon - Fri 8am - late. Saturday & Sunday 9am till late

Tlf: 667 919 025

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

...FOOD news ...FOOD news Could olive oil be the key to weight loss?

Puttingolive oil on the dinner table could help you stay slim – because the smell makes us feel full. The discovery comes after scientists tracked volunteers who ate a 500g yoghurt every day for three months. Some had added olive oil, while others included rapeseed oil, lard or butter.

Those who had olive oil ate fewer calories overall, and none put on weight. Blood tests showed they had higher levels of serotonin, a so-called satiety hormone that makes us feel full.

Scientists at Munich’s Technische Universitaet and the University of Vienna said this was due to an aroma compound not found in other fats and oils. They were able to recreate the results by adding the aroma compounds – but not olive oil itself – to yoghurts. The aroma extracts from olive oil can leave us feeling fuller, cutting our calorie intake by almost 200 a day, they said.

German and Austrian scientists made the discovery after testing the appetitesuppressing properties of four different fats - olive oil, lard, butter and rapeseed oil.

The team at the Technical University of Munich and at the University of Vienna asked volunteers to eat half a kilo of yoghurt enriched with one of the four fats daily alongside their normal diet.

After three months, it was discovered

that adding olive oil had the biggest effect on satiety - the feeling of being full.

Study author Professor Peter Schieberle said those who ate the olive oil yoghurt were found to have higher levels of the hormone serotonin - which controls the feeling of fullness - in their blood.

He also hailed the findings as paving the way for new healthy but satisfying weightloss foods, adding: ‘Our findings show that aroma is capable of regulating satiety.

‘We hope that this work will pave the way for the development of more effectiver e d u c e d fat food products that are nonetheless filling.’

Pre Starters Chefs Salad – A bowl of fresh salad served with Ali Oli with a bottle of house red or white wine per couple Starters Thai style Pork and Prawn Balls with Sweet Chilli Dip Spicy Parsnip & Apple Soup Main Courses (All served with Vegetables & New Potatoes) Homemade Steak, Mushroom & Guinness Pie Honey Roast Gammon Ham with Parsley Sauce Chicken in Stilton & Pear Sauce Gnocci with Spinach & Pine Nut Gratin (V) Desserts Croissant Butter Pudding served with Cream or Custard Key Lime Pie with Cream Eton Mess

call Paul: 634

on

ITV CENTRE

← Albox

332 178

Fines →

Yellow Stone 1km Piedra Amarilla →

el ~poli, partaloa GREAT FOOD, GREAT ATMOSPHERE ~ PAELLA MEAL DEAL

vegetarian menu available

4 courses with bottle of ESTE wine per couple & coffee inc Lunch 1pm - 4pm, Freshly Baked Bread Roast Lamb Shoulder & Pork Knuckle, 12oz Entrecote, 20oz T-Bone, 10oz Pork Tenderloin, Roast Potatoes & Fresh Veg.

Daily roast cooking

every night Pizza & Pasta All your favorite pasta dishes including Ravioli, Lasagne, Macaroni, Carbonara, Tortellini and a wide range of pizzas from Margaritas to a Meat Feast

new smoking conservatory now open

Open Mon - Sat 8am - 24pm,Sun 10am - 17pm Spanish Tel: 950 430 145 English Tel: 647 730 103

SUNDAY AFTERNOON SPECIAL

BOOKING s only

Bread & Ali-oli, Salad PAELLA (Fish Or Meat) 20€ FOR 2 PEOPLE

Bread & Ali-oli, Salad Half a Roast Chicken, served with Chips

MINIMUM TWO PEOPLE ORDER 1 DAY IN ADVANCE

14.95€ FOR 2 PEOPLE

FRIDAY FISH’N’CHIPS

Winter Opening Hours

AVAILABLE FROM 3PM

children’s menu available

Thurs: Roast Pork Loin Mon: Roast Lamb Shank Tues: Rabbit in garlic & beer Fri: Roast Lamb Shank Sat & Sun: Roast Lamb Shank & Pork Knuckle Wed: Roast Pork Knuckle

Poligono Industrial Albox, Near the ITV Garage

Sunday 31st March Lunch served from 12 noon

Find us in Piedra Amarilla (Formerly The Grapevine) For more information and phone orders

sunday roast menu del dia

www.mesondeirene.com

sunday

Booking essential, call paul on 634 332 178 (€5 reservation deposit per person)

4 Courses with Wine & Coffee

Everyday 7pm - 11pm

Easter

Andfinally,eachpersonreceivesagiftfromtheEasterBunny!

MENU DEL DIA open7 days a week

4 Courses with Wine & Coffee

STONE BAR

€12,95

Irene

menu del noche

Grea tF T rie d nds o YELLOW Go s e m i

per pers

Mesón de Monday-Saturday inclusive. Lunch 1pm - 4pm

31

FISH’N’CHIPS - 5.50€

EXTRA’S: MUSHY OR GARDEN PEAS - 50c

ALSO AVAILABLE...

SCAMPI - 6.45€ BATTERED SAUSAGE - 3.95€ CHICKEN KORMA - 5.50€ CHICKEN ROGAN JOSH - 5.50€ BEEF MADRAS - 5.50€ ALL SERVED WITH RICE OR CHIPS

1 LITRE JUG OF BEER OR BOTTLE OF WINE

Monday - Closed Tuesday - 10am til’ late Wednesday - 10am till 6pm Thursday - 10am til’ late Friday - 10am til’ late Saturday - 10am til’ late Sunday 10am til’ 6pm TAPAS & OD OTHER FO AVAILABLE

WI-FI & PRINTING AVAILABLE

CALL 637 061 489 (ENG) OR 678 834 747 (ESP)

32

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

ALBOX

Bar Menu & Snacks Home-made puds

MENU DEL DIA

Burgers, Lasagne, pies, Omelettes, chilli plus

All Day Breakfast from 9am

onl y €

2 Courses

5

served 12 - 3 except Fri & Sun

Includes FREE Tea or Coffee

friday & SATURDAY Fridays &

Cod ‘n’ ChipS

Saturdays The Beerfrom battered Restaurant 5.95€ Atlantic is Open Cod, Homemade 6pm-9pm Chips, Mushy or MENU FROM Garden 5.95€ PeaS SERVED 12-9pm

Traditional SUNDAY LUNCH

ly Delicious & Home-cooked n o served A Choice of Topside Of Beef & 12.30 - 5pm Yorkshire Pudding; Roast Pork With Crackling And Apple Sauce Tender or Roast Chicken With Stuffing - all served with Locallygrown Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables & a Glass Of House Wine, Tubo of Beer or a Coffee

6.95€ to include a FREE Drink

Wednesday Line Dancing 7:30pm Thursday Ceroc Dancing & Fun

Plus Social Night 7:30pm

All musicians and singers welcome check the board for times

@

BP Garage

•••

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

950 120 718 / 610 641 567

Super Corner

ENGLISH SUPERMARKET

Your local dedicated Off Licence

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

Tel: 662 153 834

Mesón de

Irene

Unmissable offer!

Free Bottle

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

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

#

...Art Classes (held most days) ...Computer Club ...Keep fit & slimming classes

ALBOX

STOP ‘N’ SHOP IN YOUR...

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

BREAKFAST This Friday Activities at Rock ‘n’ Roll - 7:30pm Night Music Monday Tuesday Quirky Quiz - 7:30pm

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

green tea and coffee on stroke risks,’ said lead author Dr Yoshihiro Kokubo, from Japan’s National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Centre.

‘You may make a small but positive lifestyle change to help lower the risk of stroke by adding daily green tea to your diet.’

The study, published in American Heart Association’s journal Stroke, found that the greater amounts of coffee or green tea consumed, the lower their stroke risk.

The report found that ‘combination of higher green tea and coffee consumptions contributed to the reduced risk of stroke as an interaction effect for each other.’

But even in lower quantities, green tea helped protect against the condition, with those drinking between two to three cups seeing their chance of a stroke fall by 14

TURRE, NEXT TO MESON DEL POBRE

SUNDAY SERVED 10AM-12PM Open Mic Night with Tony & ee Anne

When it comes to choosing between tea or coffee, the best answer may be to opt for both.

Scientists have found that individuals who enjoy a daily cup of coffee were 20 per cent less likely to have a stroke compared to those who shunned the drink.

And those that drank at least four cups of green tea a day also benefitted from a similarly reduced stroke risk.

But as the popular beverages are thought to protect against the often fatal condition in different ways, the study suggests regularly drinking both could provide the greatest benefit.

Researchers looked at the drinking habits of almost 84,000 Japanese adults over a 13-year period.

‘This is the first largescale study to examine the combined effects of both

ALL YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS AND MORE IN ONE SUPERSTORE!!

Starters, Puddings - 2€ each

is

view us online www.soltimes.com Prevent a stroke - DRINK One coffee and four cups of green tea a day!

per cent.

Participants in the study were 45 to 74 years old and were free from cancer and cardiovascular disease, and all the findings were adjusted to take into account age, sex and lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol, weight, and exercise.

Green tea drinkers in the study were more likely to exercise compared to nondrinkers, while coffee drinkers tended to be younger, and were more likely to smoke and take exercise.

Although it is unclear how green tea affects stroke risks, scientists believe a compounds known as catechins may provide some protection to blood vessels.

Several chemicals in coffee are believed to provide a boost to health, including caffeine and chlorogenic acid, which researchers suggest could help cut stroke risks by lowering the chances of developing type 2 diabetes.

Both drinks also helped to protect from the risk of heart attacks, according to the researchers.

‘The regular action of drinking tea, coffee, largely benefits cardiovascular health because it partly keeps blood clots from forming,’ said Dr Kokubo.’

Research last year found the more coffee you drink, the less likely you are to die from a number of different ailments, including heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes and infections - but not cancer.

Researchers at the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Maryland, said they could not establish whether coffee was the cause of a lowered risk of death, but there was definitely a link.

The research, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, followed 229,000 men and 173,000 women aged between 50 and 71, between 1995 and 2008.

Participants were classified according to how much coffee they drank.

There were 52,000 deaths during the period, with an ‘inverse association’ between coffee consumption and death. This means the greater the amount of coffee participants drank, the lower their risk of dying during the study.

ARTICLE COURTESY OF MAIL ONLINE

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

email your favourite recipes to editor@soltimes.com

33

...FOOD & ENTERTAINING

Roast Asparagus with Stir-fried Beef & Cabbage Mint & Feta

STARTER

Ingredients A sparagus, washed & trimmed

MAIN Ingredients

50g/2oz spring onions, sliced

1 tbsp sesame oil

50g/2oz bean sprouts

Generous pinch of sea salt

Method

300g beef shoulder steak, thinly sliced

50g/2oz mangetout

Generous fistful of roughly

1. Preheat the oven to its highest setting. Toss the asparagus, oil and salt in a mixing bowl and spread on a baking tray in a single layer. Cook in the oven for 10-15 minutes

1 garlic clove, crushed

1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder

10g/¾oz ginger, grated

1 tbsp sesame seeds

100g/3½oz shiitake mushrooms, sliced

1 lime, juice only

100g/3½oz spring cabbage, sliced

salt & soy sauce, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

chopped mint, plus small leaves to garnish 2 tbsp capers, washed and squeezed dry 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper Extra-virgin olive oil Juice of 1 lemon 200g feta, crumbled Bread suitable for toasting

2. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mint, capers and black pepper with just enough extravirgin oil to make it look like a rough sauce.

3. A rrange the asparagus on the toast and drizzle over the sauce. Squeeze on the lemon juice and sprinkle the mint leaves on top, then scatter with crumbled feta.

Tip: This is a great starter or light lunch, served warm or cold.

Method 1. Heat the sesame oil in a large frying pan or wok. Add the beef to the pan and stir fry for 1-2 minutes until coloured on all sides. Add the garlic and ginger and stir well. Add the vegetables and stir fry for another minute or until the beef is cooked to your liking.

2. As soon as the beef is cooked, add the five-spice powder, sesame seeds and lime juice, stir and remove from the heat.

3. T o serve, season with salt and/or soy sauce and divide among four plates.

Roasting asparagus really intensifies its flavour and brings out the sweeter notes.

In fact, roasting asparagus is a good way of using it even when it is looking a little sorry for itself.

Roasting removes moisture, so the spears will shrink a little. Allow 6 spears per person.

You don’t have to stick to feta for this recipe, try with cottage cheese, ricotta, young goat’s cheese or mozzarella.

tips from the kitchen table....

To separate an egg without getting your hands mucky.

Break egg into a saucer, invert an egg cup over the yolk and pour off the white. You then do not get pieces of egg shell, or the yolk if making meringues, etc.

Ingredients:

DESSER T

2 tbsp skimmed milk 4 tsp sugar 1 tsp vanilla medium banana, cut in 1 quarters 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt

Banana Mousse Method: 1. Place milk, sugar, vanilla, and banana in blender.

2. Process 15 seconds at high speed until smooth.

3. Pour mixture into a small bowl; fold in yogurt and chill.

4. Spoon into 4 wine glasses; garnish each with a strawberry before serving.

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

STANDARD CROSSWORD

24 Women in love (9) 25 Willow (5) 26 Having some resemblance (5) 27 A citrus fruit (9) 28 Proof (8) 29 Spiritualists meeting (6) Down 1 In a psychotic manner (8) 2 Occlusion (8) 3 Not our (5) 5 A discourtesy (7) 6 Thrive (archaic) (9) 7 Relax (6)

8 Christian holy holiday (6) 9 Prove true or correct (6) 15 Become more frugal (9) 17 Relating to Sicily (8) 18 Break the heart of (8) 20 Severe or farreaching (7) 21 Show off (6) 22 A thick cream soup (6) 23 Hunting expedition (6) 25 Overweight (5)

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.

Across 1 Reasoned argument (6) 4 Dampness (8) 10 Sheets of unbound paper (9) 11 Gapes (5) 12 A southern Eurasian falcon (5) 13 Naivete (9) 14 In an unclear manner (7) 16 Historical periods (4) 19 Stated (4) 21 Providing nourishment (7)

7 Plunder country (not Italy) with fire (7) 8 Feel bitter about Mid-West, shown in tear (6) 14 Vessel to ban perhaps, when pointer is seen inside (6,4) 16 A quiet tree? (3) 18 Printing units in Harlem suburb (3) 19 6 once took the French aggression (8) 20 Rough track, say (6) 21 Enthusiastic reception from Ivan - too bad! (7) 23 A crazy, backwards insect is unyielding (7) 24 Advert I look up in outskirts of 11 with time off (7) 25 Cope with a new game that’s complicated (6) 28 Good king before 1999 is unpleasant (4)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

coffee break

Across 1 What’s in the newspapers - and might the tabloids be interested in them too?

(7,7) 9 Cook because engulfed by decay (5) 10 Train in true English fashion (7) 11 Up and down - not well - in Hospital Yard (5) 12 Saw a key insides up (5) 13 Graze end of knee after fight (6) 15 Look at Eddie hiding girl! (4) 17 New flame with vessel, and French place to get second-hand goods (4,6) 20 Church or perhaps sister singers (10) 22 Reckless king has moved (4) 26 A mob without bishop is fit for ploughing! (6) 27 Be of use to a cover, we hear (5) 28 Don’t stop talking for country? (5) 29 Bowler or Top, perhaps (7) 30 A district prize (5) 31 European football team losing an injury finally taking time to cover stopping and starting (14) Down 1 Fish vessel where vehicles are left (3,4) 2 Study suitable change again (7) 3 Book part of “Best Hero” range (6) 4 Cable left to break most of the cover (10) 5 Turn into cook rage! (4) 6 Dictator with gold to make sweetheart repeatedly missing (8)

STANDARD SUDOKU

34

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

1000 Women who make Almeria

In honour of ‘Dia de la Mujer’ (10th March), the provincial Spanish language newspaper, La Voz de Almeria, published ‘a tribute to the women of Almeria, who through their dedication, their professional or personal profile or through their endeavours are the making of Almeria day by day’.

Among the 1000 women recognised by the publication for their contribution to Almeria is Maura Hillen, President of Abusos Urbanisticos Almanzora No (AUAN), the group that campaigns on behalf of the owners of illegal homes in the province. She is one of only a handful of recent émigrés to Almeria who made it onto the list.

Others include the president of the Russian Cultural Association, Marina Borzenkova and Melanie Homberg, the Belgian president of the Association Vecinos Urba-Roquemar.

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - ALBOX BRANCH News - information - FUTURE EVENTS

Future events

March 21st - The next branch activity will be the monthly meeting on Thursday, 11:00am at La Parrilla in Albox. The guest speaker will come from Avalon, the funeral plan company.

March 30th – Poppy Easter Bonnet Ball, to be held at La Parrilla. The event will start at 7pm, dinner will be served at 7:30. Dinner will comprise a three course meal with some drinks included in the cost. The cost will be €20 for members and €22 for non members. Music will be supplied by Brendan O’Dee. Prizes will be awarded for the best bonnet, male AND female.

For further details, or to book tickets, contact the social secretary Bob Cowan on 608049490 or email him at rcowan25@gmail.com.

April 4th

- The coffee morning will be on

Thursday, 10:30am at La Parrilla in Albox. Do come and join us, meet with or make new friends, buy items from the Poppy Stall and have a good time.

If you require more details for any of the activities and events for the Albox branch or should you wish to become a member (you do not need to be ex-forces to join) and help with the Legion’s excellent work for British serving and ex-service personnel and their families, both in the UK and here in Spain, please come along to any branch meeting at the Hotel Restaurante La Parrilla (1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month). Alternatively, contact the chairman, Peter Phillips, on 693483392 or email peatpee@sky.com, or visit the branch website, www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/albox

This friday 22ND MARCH - 10am-3pm

la vida fayre

oss hot cr bun & coffee 1.50€

lADIES ACCESSORIES - UK PET FOOD JAMS & PICKLES - HOMEMADE DOLLS

FRILLIES UK LINGERIE - ALMERIA ANGELS TAROT & NUMEROLOGY Psychic drawing with rosa WOOL & KNITTED OUTFITS

HOME ACCESSORIES - MAKE-UP & JEWELLERY KEVIN FROM LIBERTY SEGUROS Full range of dart equipment HAND-MADE CRAFTS - HEALING JEWELLERY Healing, MASSAGE & OTHER THERAPIES Crystals, angels & semi precious stones

E! LOOK FO RWARD TO SEEING YO U THER Albox Breakfast & Lite Bite Arboleas Menu from 10am Cod & Chips 12am - 9pm Zurgena

Tel: 950 634 562

lavidacucador@gmail.com

La Alfoquia

Mojacar

E15

Candles We are here

1km

La Vida

Cucador Junc 547 Huercal Overa

35

Cucador

VidaRestaurant&Venue

Saturday 30th March

Easter Saturday Come along & dance to your Disco favourites with JC

free entrance from 9pm

tapas 1€

in the bar All Selections 1€ Each

Enjoy a food plate Tuesday Bar

Specials 6 - 9pm Chicken, Chips & Salad Garnish Chicken Curry Choice of

OR Chilli Beef (medium) O Long Grain Rice & nly 6€ Garlic Bread OR Cod & Prawn Creamy Bake, Chips & Green Salad

& Long Grain Rice

5€

or Cod, Chips ‘n’ Peas

Thursday night special Enjoy Wonderful Views delicious from our homemade pies , Chips & Peas Restaurant Candelit

5€

wed - sat evenings Opens 6:30pm - 9:30pm Includes complimentary filtered water, bread & alioli

fridays

Beer-battered cod,

Starters Ask for today’s choice of Starters, €2.50 each Mains

homemade chips & peas

served 12.30pm - 9pm from

Mustardy Pork €7.45: Tender fillet of pork in a mustard sauce Thai Fish Curry €7.95: Homemade fragrant curry with delicious chunks of fish served on a bed of rice Lamb Shank in Mint & Rosemary €7.95: Slow-cooked succulent lamb shank in a rich mint & rosemary gravy

5.95€ in the Bar

THE ABOVE MAINS ARE SERVED WITH A CHOICE OF POTATOES & SEASONAL VEGETABLES

Gammon & Pineapple or Egg €7.95: Juicy gammon steak served with a choice of pineapple or fried egg, hand-cut chips, peas & salad Atlantic Cod ‘n’ Chips €7.95: Beer-battered medium Atlantic cod served with hand-cut chips & peas Mixed Grill €14.95: 4oz Steak, chicken fillet, pork sausage, onions, mushrooms, fried egg with grilled tomato, hand-cut chips & garden peas Surf & Turf €12.95: 4oz Entrecote steak & deep fried Scampi, served with salad garnish, grilled tomato, hand cut chips & garden peas Juicy Sirloin Steaks 16oz €18.95 ~ 12oz €15.95 ~ 8oz €12.95 Cooked to your liking, with a Peppercorn or Roquefort sauce on the side with onion rings, grilled tomato, handcut chips & garden peas Slow-Roast Shoulder of Lamb for 2 people to share €24.95 Served with roasted vegetables & potatoes (Must be pre-ordered 24hrs in advance)

booking advisable

traditional

sunday lunch

12.30PM - 5PM a to include e in w f o glass or tubo

Sides: Ask your waitress for our choice of side dishes, 1.50 each Scrumptious Homemade Puddings Ask your waitress for the specials of the day, all €2.50 Cheese & Biscuits Selection A selection of Cheeses served with biscuits & homemade chutney €3.50

Open Every Day 12pm - Late

Tel: 950 634 562 lavidacucador@gmail.com

Arboleas

Mojacar

E15

booking advisable

We are here

Albox

Zurgena La Alfoquia

fISH OF THE DAY OPTION

1km

La Vida

Cucador Junc 547 Huercal Overa

book the Venue

For your Private Parties, Weddings and Birthdays etc.

36

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

April Showers

Have you ever wondered where some phrases that we use in every day conversation originate? For example, the term April Showers you may believe to be just a way of describing the weather usually expected in the month of April, but it actually has origins much farther back than you probably imagined.

The full phrase is actually ‘April Showers brings forth May flowers” and can mean that something good may happen as a result of unpleasant events. The proverb has been traced back to about 1557 from an author called Thomas Tusser who wrote “Sweet April showers, Do spring May flowers”.

So what about: Pass The Buck Pass responsibility on to someone else Origin: Look up buck in the dictionary and you’ll find a couple of dozen assorted nouns, verbs and adjectives. The most common use of the word these days is as the slang term for the American dollar.

That’s not the buck meant here though.

Look a little further down the list and you’ll find ‘buck - an article used in a game of poker’, and that’s the buck that’s passed.

Poker became very popular in America during the second half of the 19th century. Players were highly suspicious of cheating or any form of bias and there’s considerable folklore depicting gunslingers in shoot-outs based on accusations of dirty dealing. In order to avoid unfairness the deal changed hands during sessions. The person who was next in line to deal would be given a marker. This was often a knife, and knives often had handles made of buck’s horn - hence the marker becoming known as a buck. When the dealer’s turn was done he ‘passed the buck’. Silver dollars were later used as markers and this is probably the origin of the use of buck as a slang term for dollar.

Diamond In The Rough Someone who is basically good hearted but lacking social graces and respect for the law Origin: The phrase is clearly a metaphor for the original unpolished state of diamond gemstones, especially those that have the potential to become high quality jewels. It is more commonly

expressed in the form ‘rough diamond’.

The first recorded use in print is in John Fletcher’s A Wife for a Month, 1624: “She is very honest, and will be as hard to cut as a rough diamond.”

Batten Down The HatcheS Prepare for trouble!

Origin: Climate change is providing plenty of opportunity to reinforce our property against bad weather. The securing of property, especially the covering with protective sheeting, is called ‘battening down’. That’s not how the phrase originated, although it’s not far away in terms of meaning. It has a nautical origin and ‘battening down’ was done on ships when bad weather was expected.

Belt & Braces Careful - not taking any chances Origin: Belts and braces are meant to hold trousers up, so using both ‘belt and braces’ is a double insurance against having them fall down. The figurative use, as a general term for cautiousness, was coined around the mid-20th century.

Goody Two-Shoes Someone who is virtuous in a coy, smug or sentimental manner Origin: This phrase derives from the title of the nursery tale The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes, which was published in 1765. Oliver Goldsmith is the name most commonly associated with it, although the evidence that claim is largely circumstantial and is based on the fact it is considered to be in Goldsmith’s style and that he had previously undertaken the ‘ghost-writing’ of somewhat similar stories for cash rather than as a named author. ‘Anonymous’ is probably the wisest choice when naming an author of this book!

Now, when you next got to a quiz, you’ll be a ‘mine of information’…now where does that saying come from I wonder???

Welcome Group Update

On March 5th, I was pleased to go with the Welcome Group to the AECC in Murcia,in the morning it was the ladies turn for the mammograms and smears and in the afternoon it was the mens turn for a blood test for prostate cancer.

Many thanks to the AECC for allowing us to go there for screening and a big thank you to Adena for coming along to do the translating for us and Jo for organising it all.

While we were there we were pleased to

present the AECC with a cheque for 600€.

Over the years since we have been going to the AECC it is surprising how many people have been called back.

We really appreciate this service and if you would like to go put your name down on the list at one of our events.

For more information call Rosemary 620 105 179

mabs mazarron events

MABS CANCER SUPPORT GROUP MAZARRON EVENTS FOR APRIL & MAY 2013

APRIL Tuesday April 2nd – RACE NIGHT - The Club House Camposol. First race 8 pm

Food available beforehand from 6.30 until 8pm. TICKETS 3€ - available at the MABS bookstall on Fridays on Camposol B, the MABS Shop in Totana or by ringing 689 052 123.

Every Tuesday - MABS COFFEE MORNING - MABS CENTRE - 396 Avda de los Covachos Camposol

Sector B4 – 10 UNTIL 1 Cake stall, books, come along meet some of our volunteers have a chat, a cup of coffee or snack. For further information please ring 620 582 418.

Tuesday 23rd April - ST GEORGE’S DAY CELEBRATIONS - La Vida Bar, El Pareton – 3.00 pm St George will arrive by horse to start the celebrations. There will be stalls, children´s games and face painting, tombola, raffle etc. The MABS shop will also put on a fashion show. Food will be available, pie and mash, burgers etc. NO ENTRY FEE and the proceeds will go to MABS Cancer Support, Mazarrón.

Friday 26th April - JIGSAW BEREAVEMENT GROUP Cats Bar Sector A Camposol – 12.00 pm

The MABS Mazarrón Bereavement Group meets on the last Friday of the month at Cats Bar, Sector A, Camposol. Call 620 582 418 for further details.

Tuesday 30th April - VOLUNTEERS MEETING - Trevi bar, Camposol Sector B - 11.30 am

If you would like further information about how you can help MABS come along to our meeting. For further information please ring 634 362 954.

MAY Every Tuesday - MABS COFFEE MORNING - MABS Centre - 396 Avda de los Covachos Camposol

Sector B4 – 10.00 am - 1 .00 pm Cake stall, books: come along, meet some of our volunteers have a chat, a cup of coffee or a snack. For further information please ring 620 582 418.

Saturday 25th May - SPRING FAYRE - MABS Centre, Camposol B - 11.00 am to 3.00 pm Various Stalls – Coffee Shop – Grand Raffle

Tuesday 28th May - VOLUNTEERS MEETING - Trevi bar, Camposol Sector B - 11.30 am

If you would like further information about how you can help MABS come along to our meeting. For further information please ring 634 362 954.

Friday 31st May - JIGSAW BEREAVEMENT GROUP Cats Bar Sector A Camposol 12pm.

The MABS Mazarrón Bereavement group meets on the last Friday of the month at Cats bar Sector A Camposol. Call 620 582 418 for further details.

Every 2nd and 3rd Friday – BOOK SALE – Camposol Sector B Commercial Centre FORTHCOMING EVENTS Swingin’ Summertime Dance - 7th August - Mazarrón Country Club with 2 course meal

& dancing to Woody, supported by Christine - 8pm -Ticket price 12€- Tel 689 052 123 ~~~~~~~ Event tickets on sale at the book stall Between 9.30am and 1pm. or from the MABS information centre on Sector B Camposol or by Calling 620 582 418 Keep watching the press or visit our website www.mabsmurcia.com for forthcoming events

www.soltimes.com

37

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

community news

send your emails to editor@soltimes.com

PALS (Protection and Life Saving)

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 May 4 places only left for three nights Salamanca, Segovia 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 from626 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

HELP Murcia Mar Menor

SPRING FAyRe AT THE ARCHES RESTAURANT

fast - Future Events 2013

IN LOS ALCAZARES to be held on Wednesday 10th April

starting at 12.30am

Fashion Show by Zigi, clothes for sale

F.A.S.T Bookstall is back – 2nd & 4th Friday 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 Lots of Stalls 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 EMAIL YOUR BIRTHDAY Friday - 11th October – Oktoberfest? Beer & Wine Festival – Camposol Golf Club GREETINGS & events TO: Saturday- 23rd November – F.A.S.T Christmas Fayre EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM – 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 (Camposol A) (puer to de mazarron) 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 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 465 847or 634 327 730

Come along and bag a bargain!

market tavern & cm construction

are drop off points for soltimes

The Beacon of Light

Centre for Spiritual Awareness

Meetings held every Wednesday from 7pm - approx 8.30pm: The Old School House Canadas del Romero

the New Royal Bar & Restaurant Tel 968 595 864

Our food is full of flavour & freshly prepared

e

Breakfast ~ Menu Del Dia ~ A la Carte Friday Fish and Chips from €6.00

ENTERTAINMENT IS FREE March events

23rd – Barry Manilow Tribute Show

30th – Dee – All round Entertainer and Singer

Sunday’s at The New Royal

dates for Our guest mediums: March 20th - Morag Bullock March 27th - Jimmy McArthur

Sunday Lunches from € 8.50

For more info please call 620 877 326

3 Courses plus 1 bottle of Wine per couple

www.beaconoflightmurcia.webs.com email: beacon.of.light.murcia@gmail.com

e

Menu de la Noche Mon - Thurs 7 - 9pm 10€ per person

Menu del Dia

An Amazing For ONLY

5

Courses

8.50€

All Live Sporting Events Shown On 3 BIG Screens

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

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

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

38

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

SOLTIMES www.soltimes.com see us online everyday

BY TELEPHONE Between 10am & 5pm

Monday to Friday

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 appliaNCE repairs

for sale

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS Repairs to Washers, Dryers, Electric Cookers, Dishwashers, Fridges and Freezers

All makes, Torrevieja and surrounding areas 20 years experience fast reliable service Call Stewart on office

966 785 451 / 654 939 202 hours 10 - 4 FREE CALL OUT

Small call out on Fridges

beds

Sweet Dreams

boats

B O A T I NG LICENSES ARE NOW A LEGAL REQUIREMENT IN SPAIN Serenity Sailing RYA Training Centre, Competent Crew to Yachtmaster, 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.

Furniture Contact Richard +34 638 056 224 est 2006 Email: enquiries@ sl s e r e n i t y s a i l i n g .

ROJALES SPECIALIST OF PRE - OWNED FURNITURE com or visit: www. & AccESSORIES AT SENSIBLE PRICES serenitysailing.com house clearance specialist FREE LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE

ALUMINIUM GATES Double & Electric Sliding.

Guaranteed no rust. Call Tracy on 966 726 891 Pool tables, snooker tables, table tennis tables, darts. Tel: 666 933 726 www. spainpool.com Ceramic Hob Schott CERAN

model A68 new unused, 4 burner, less than half price only 100€ (Rojales) Tel 634361513 Double One mattress, nearly new with protective cover 30€ Quesada areaTel: 654 666 686 Evenings only Folding Single Metal Bed, good condition 20€

hearing aids

See our Advertisement on page 19 for more information

Furniture first

WE BUY, SELL & PART EXCHANGE QUALITY FURNITURE Open Mon - Fri 10 - 18.00, Sat 10 - 14.00 C/Pablo Neruda 2, Local 5, Rojales

PLEASE CALL JAMIE ON: 966 713 075 OR 680 545 923 www.southcostablancaonline.com

businesses for sale/rent

glass curtains

garden services

A1 Group

glass curtains Complete Garden Maintenance Create more living space, no unsightly frames, reasonable prices.

& Property Services We cover Mazarron & surrounding areas

Telephone 628 505 733

freehold local for sale For a free estimate Bar/cafe in a busy urbanisation Tel: 646 111 825 jewellery living accomodation in a 2 bed, heating south facing apartment included in the price NEATER HEATER English jeweller wishes to buy broken Annual turnover gross See our main or unwanted Gold jewellery, silver and advert on the news 280-300,000€ coins pages net profit - 50,000€ IMMEDIATE CASH For more info call horse riding PAYMENT 672 033 676 Horse back Call Peter riding Murcia, electricians 664 890 990

GOLD WANTED

Electrician , available for all works. Small or large. Call Dave 693 251 562. davendonc@aol.com

cartagena Telephone 679 572 690

ELECTRICS & PLUMBING IN THE COSTA BLANCA

no job too small & free estimates! specialists in all electrical & plumbing works

new icp’s fitted - swimming pool heaters & air-con, electric gates & burglar alarms hot water boilers,gas heaters & solar new bath/shower suites - spanish legal

call clive: 617 268 346 or frank: 639 988 487 www.electriciancostablanca.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Goldsmiths From a pocket watch to a piano....

If it’s under 300€ you can advertise your items

free ofin thecharge

SOLTIMES SELL IT FAST SELL IT FREE EMAIL YOUR ITEMS FOR SALE TO BLANCASALES@SOLTIMES.COM

PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY • NO PETS

Quesada area Tel: 654 666 686 Evenings only L a r g e of quantity DVD’s and CD’s, reasonable offer Quesada area Tel: 654 666 686 Evenings only learn Spanish for beginners, Oxford 5 hour cassette course 10€ Blow up single flocked guest mattress complete with foot pump 8€ Wilson Augusta double headed brass putter 10€ Tel 635885062 Camposol 2 satellite tv receivers good condition can be seen working 25€ each, please tel 965073634. silver butane bottles 10€ each Also pair of Wharfdale diamond 8 speakers, 50€ for both Los Montesinos Tel 608 233 191 mobile 685054729 Thule Karrite Car Roof Top Box, White, in good order. 60€ O.N.O. . Location Cuidad Quesada, Tel 965725573 / 659013882 C a r l Fo g g a r t y Shark replica crash helmet, size small, 1998 approx, as new, collectors or enthusiast’s item open to offers. Tel 965725573 Cuidad Quesada.

C om 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 965725573 / 659013882 Tumble Dryer, excellent condition, good working order, can be seen working €95 Tel: 645 068 235 BOOK SALE – 4 boxes = 100 + best sellers €25. Large Wall Mirror 80 x 65 Cane surround v.g.c. €12, Cane Basket Chair €8 Tel: Quesada 966 716 599

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

39

www.soltimes.com property for sale / rent

leak detection

Reduced Reduced Reduced

pool & water leak detection & repair specialists

don’t let your pool & water bills drain you!! www.leak-tech.net tel: 627 752 965 • 622 400 365 • 966 194 179 info@leak-tech.net

CALL SOLTIMES

CLASSIFIED

966 719 647

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

insurance

asssa medical i n s u r a n ces Asssa Mazarron, Diane Nolan, Tel: 968 153 396, mazarron@asssa. es

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

locksmith

only€39,950 Apartment For Sale

cortij0 grande golf course for SALE detatched cortijo

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

reasonable priced properties / RENTAL PROPERTIES URGENTLY REQUIRED 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

20mins from mojacar This is a unique spanish cortijo with 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas, kitchen & diningroom as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool. Mountain views.

Build 256 m², Terrace 100m², Plot 1200m²

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

FOR SALE Apartment (Top floor / Penthouse) Almoradi,Costa Blanca

€150,000

Tel: 649 186 107

thunderpaul2003@hotmail.ccom for rent, 3 bed, 3 bath spacious semi-detatched house with garage situated in the popular area of La Zenia, walking distance to shops, beaches and the new La Zenia Boulevard, Furnished, Long term, 550€ monthly plus electric & water, perfect family home Tel: 966 733 079 or 619 098 543

4 Bed, 2 Bath, Large Terrace, Lounge, Sep Kitchen, Utility Room, Communal Solarium, Lift, Furnished inc. White Goods, UK TV , 90m² Interior Living Space plus, 15m² Terrace / Balcony with Awnings.

Overlooks a newly reformed Plaza, church & mountains, unusually large terrace. 2 min walk away from the town’s attractive central square, all other amenities are also within easy walking distance,12 mins drive from the resort of Guardamar del Segura. Close to La Finca Golf course Private Sale €75,000

Tel: (0034) 676 534 978 pets

24 HR EMERGENCY LOCKSMITH Window / Shutter / Door locks Opened, Changed & Fitted Telephone: 653 145 300 Email:locksrus@hotmail.co.uk

Pets In Spain

Don’t miss the biggest BARGAIN yet!

Milo and Mindy were found wandering near a busy road. They are now in a temporary foster home but need forever homes. They are approx 3 months old and will be medium/large when fully grown

We have a key-ready block of apartments in Los Montesinos with full finance!

All you pay is €3,000 to complete.

ATTACHED TOWNHOUSE DOÑA PEPA

Special Deals for Urbanisations

personals “Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the ads in this section offensive” ELEGANT SLIM, house visits Tel: 693 massage bed. Very SEXY ITALIAN 357 526 discreet. Call 677 676 LADY availanble n atas h a , 554 San Policarpo home/house visits. diverse No. 87 Apt 1-17 Torrevieja, La Manga, Divorced, Cerca Calle Orihuela.

Torre Pacheco & super sexy, private Can accommodate Mazarron.

Escort apartment, complete one person or with accompanied. available home & massage

CALL

SOLTIMES CLASSIFIED

966 719 647

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

FINCA LA CASTELLANA ANIMAL WELFARE CENTRE

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

tel: 693 806 409

Should you be able to re-home, foster or sponsor one of the adorable dogs please contact – Eleanor

610188349.

Joey is a Podenco cross, small to medium in size.

Originally a rescue dog but his owner became ill so he had to come back to the kennels. He is around a year old, chipped and all vaccinations are up to date.

Truffle and Pickle are 9 weeks old, chocolate Labrador cross, both female and are playful, happy pups, Nutmeg, their brother is also available.

Call: 645 469 253

www.petsinspain.com info@petsinspain.info

Monty is a gorgeous boy!

A neutered, chocolate point Siamese type with lovely blue eyes, Monty is about four years old and has all his vaccinations.

If you would like to meet Monty please phone Joe (The Cat Man) on 966719272 or speak with Rose inside the shop

40

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 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

SOLTIMES

UK - SPAIN - UK From a parcel to a small house move

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

are looking for A

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

VANTASTIC 3.5 tonne removals or any handyman & van service inc furniture collection & assembly tel: 693 251 562 e mail: davendonc@aol. com

storage

recruitment

removals

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

o hop int a new future with es sol tim

Bright, enthusiastic person with an outgoing personality to join our sales team in Mazarron/ Camposol area and leap into spring with us.

Full or part time position 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

CALL UK-SPAIN-UK fortnightly service fortnightly ESP: 914 143 164 UK: 01773 service 513 013

www.britonsremovals.com britonsremovals@ic24.net

CLASSIFIED

966 719 647

beechdale Removals Spain - UK & Return Personal, friendly door 2 door Service - Van & Trailer

Pets Welcome

Papers arranged

Local



Full or part loads



Local Moves

Motorbikes & Caravans

Office: 965 326 920 email Mobile: 666 847 648 beechdale@hotmail.co.uk

Brian Torrevieja

EARN 50€ - 100€

Call mandy

Irwin Removals

info@irwinremovals.es

965 726 544 car parts

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

PER WEEK • Part-Time • Flexible Hours

Working with a British PLC www.vistagroup.es

satellite tv 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 Sky Digibox Pace with sky card BBC 1, 2, 3, 4 ITV1, 2, 3, ch4 & 5 60€ can deliver.

Tel: 667 235 205

swimming pool safety NEATER

HEATER

See our main

advert on the news pages

620 582 063 weekly service

5€ per week for 5 cubic metres cheapest on the Costa Blanca Safe & secure

GB

want to know whats Linen Mills in the Express CALL news?

UK Spain Uk www.soltimes.com Europe

storage storage storage

CLASSIFIED

966 719 647

wigs

E

Don’t take a chance!

Don’t break the Law! Let us take the hassle away from you and re-register your vehicle on to Spanish plates 490€ plus Road Tax plus CO2 emission if applicable

Salon Margarethas 24 years in WE PROMISE TO BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTATION Torrevieja hair / For a full service contact: wig specialist for Alan 662 249 159 medical illness and www.replatematecostablanca.com hair loss problems. vehicle imports & We offer different matriculation.fast and competitive hair replacements, rates. call 687 845 730 top fillers, hair prostheses, toupees & wigs.

For re-registration of cars, Natural & artificial motorbikes and motor homes hair & much more. contact Graham Shelton Also fashion / Who after re-registering over festival accessories.

1000 vehicles will put you on the TV/TS are welcome right side of the road. to our service. Call 605 319 889 or 966 753 375 Margaretha on www.spanish-number-plates.com 966 921 846 for an info@spanish-number-plates.com appointment.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Vehicles wanted

WANTED

ALL VEHICLES

Cars, Motorhomes, 4x4’s, Boats, Vans, Trailers, Quads, Classics

FOR CASH Telephone:

Tim on 662 211 993

699 805 995

call SOLTIMES

CLASSIFIED

Telephone: 966 719 647 mechanic

Ed’s mobile

CAR REPAIR SERVICE

CAR AIR CONDITIONING REGASING SERVICE SERVICING, REPAIRS ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS GARAGE SERVICES

610 078 940

4 CASH

Best prices paid Spanish English

Anything considered telephone

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

servicing, small bodywork repairs, ITV and paperwork needs.

Ken Sherwood, British Mechanic - Tel: 679 646 859 (Costa Calida area only).

Ford Ka 2010 - 3 door hatch 1.3 TDCi 38,000 kms, 1 owner Full service history A/C, Alloys PAS, ABS Front fog lights E. windows/mirrors Rear luggage cover CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Super economical

Seat Leon Copa Auto/Tiptronic June ‘11 - 5 door hatch 1.6 TDi DSG Auto/Tip 33,000 kms, 1 owner Still under warranty!

A/C (Climate), Alloys PAS, ABS, Navigation Front fog lights Traction control 16” Alloys, Isofix High spec model, CD Cornering lights Metallic black

Rover 25 RIGHT HAND DRIVE July ‘02 5 door hatch 1.4 41,000 miles 1 owner Fully serviced PAS, ABS A/C Electric windows Central locking Metallic burgundy Spanish registered

Peugeot 207 RIGHT HAND DRIVE 2009 5 door hatch,1.4 65,000 kms, 2 owners Full service history A/C, PAS, ABS, CD Electric windows Rear luggage cover Remote locking Rear head restraints MOT’d and taxed Bright Red

Same day collection

We pay instant cash same day for cars, vans, bikes, quads, caravans, trailers, absolutley anything!

From 1€ to 10,000€

Call Phil: 607 848 332 All vehicle repairs,

cars/bikes for sale

C AR S

wanted cars for cash

41

van hire Van hire

ONE WAY



UK to Spain or Spain to UK

*LOCAL *NATIONAL *EUROPEAN

* COLLECTION & DELIVERY *STORAGE

TEL: 667 235 205

Pick up/drop off locations Throughout UK, France and Spain

€7,450

€15,750

€1,950

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

Mazda 5 7-SEATER 2008 - 7 Seater 2.0 CRTD 16v D.I. Sportive Model 136,000 kms, 1 owner Full Mazda History A/C (Full climate), ABS Cruise, Parktronic Twin sliding side doors Rear privacy glass Keyless entry/start 17” sports alloys Top of the range!

Pearl Grey

Looking for a car

Renault Megane Scenic Auto 2002 - 5 door hatch 1.6 RXE 16v 110,000 kms 3 owners Fully serviced A/C, Alloys, PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors Rear luggage cover Remote locking Multi CD player Metallic grey

600 726 221 965 687 976

600 726 221 965 687 976

we have a good selection of LHD & RHD vehicles available for sale or exchange.

600 726 221 965 687 976

Telephone

€10,450

www.fwreurocars.com

600 726 221 965 687 976

600 726 221 965 687 976 www.fwreurocars.com

€3,750

www.fwreurocars.com

600 726 221 965 687 976

€6,450

www.fwreurocars.com

600 726 221 965 687 976

call SOLTIMES CLASSIFIED Telephone:

966 719 647

42

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

A&B

Electrical Installations -Electrical installations -Maintenance -Repairs

no jo b too small

English & Spanish

- Aran 678 94 23 14...............English & Spanish - Blas 662 47 06 47................Spanish

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

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

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

Coastal Mosquitos

Mosquito Screens for Windows & Doors For a free estimate call us on 610 000 700 Awnings shower screens replacement window and doors

TNT

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

Plisse retracting screens ideal for all types of door openings

OPEN for business

The Cypriot central bank has announced that the country’s banks will stay closed until later this week as fears mount of a bank run.

The country’s banks were closed for a scheduled Bank Holiday on Monday, something that allowed Cyprus to try to implement a levy on savers’ deposits. That move triggered unease among depositors in Cyprus, where cash machines soon ran out of funds.

It had earlier unnerved investors, sending shares and the euro lower.

The EU and IMF want all bank customers to pay a levy in return for a bailout worth 10bn euros ($13bn; £8.6bn).

Spanish and Italian markets were down 2%, with bank shares the hardest hit.

The euro lost 1% against both the pound and the dollar, leaving it at 85.6p and $1.295 respectively.

Earlier, Japan’s Nikkei 225 index fell 2.7%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng and Australia’s ASX 200 dipped 2%.

Many major banks in Italy, France and Spain, some of the eurozone’s most indebted countries, were down between 4% and 5%.

In France, Credit Agricole and Societe Generale were the worst affected, losing about 4.5%, while Spain’s BBVA lost a similar amount.

In Germany, Deutsche Bank was down 3%, while Commerzbank was 1.3% lower.

Some investors think the Cyprus plan could prompt depositors elsewhere, particularly in Greece, Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Greece and Spain, to withdraw their funds.

swift transport • Deliveries to / from UK • Monthly runs • Local deliveries also available

Cyprus banks will stay closed until Thursday

“The unprecedented move is an extreme measure and in our view, it will spread some panic... we cannot rule out some capital outflows,” said Annalisa Piazza of Newedge Strategy.

But most investors thought the falls would not last long.

The European Central Bank board member, Joerg Asmussen, also said he did not think Cyprus’s problems would spread to other eurozone countries: “I do believe that the situation of Cyprus and the Cypriot banking sector is indeed unique.”

The movement in major government bond yields - the implied interest rate that countries pay to borrow money - was small - an indication that bond investors saw limited risks at the moment.

Cyprus was hardest hit, with its seven-year bond yield jumping by more than 1.5 percentage points to just over 10%.

Italian and Spanish government bond yields rose by far less - and after rising by more than 0.1 percentage points, 10-year yields for Italy were at 4.65%, while Spanish 10year yields were at 4.9%.

Some see it as undermining the credibility of European authorities who, in other bailouts, such as in Spain, have demanded that it is the large financial institutions that lent money to the governments and banks which should incur losses when things go wrong, not depositors.

Read the full report at www.bbc.co.uk/news

Wayne English

spain-uk-spain 07857 484886 Uk +34 618 511 234 Spain

full / part loads uk shopping

MOBILE VEHICLE VALETING PART & FULL VALETS - T CUTS & POLISHING - INTERIORS UPHOLSTERY CLEANING - SOFAS AND RUGS

swift.transport@rocketmail.com

pucker plastering & tiling Damproofing and SIKA TANKING Specialist Guaranteed British quality internal plaster finish

covering all aspects of:

Rendering, Plastering, Floor Screeding, Morticem, Partition Walls, Tape & Joint, Dry-Lining, MF Ceilings, Re-Skims, Coving, Cornice & Mouldings 28 years Experience in the trade 9 years in Spain English & Spanish Fluent

697524238

puckerplastering@hotmail.com covering Baza to Mojacar

HIRE A HUSBAND

Professional, reliable, handy man available... ...for all the jobs he doesn’t get round to, including Van Removals, Painting Exterior/Interior, Small Plumbing Jobs, Shelves, Garden Clearance, All Outside Work - Walls, Stone Cladding, Rendering etc... Property Maintenance Good hourly/daily rate - 7 yrs in the area.

Call Jim 677 557 190 Evenings 950 930 596 References available & Pics of work completed

New Walls New Roofs Structual Alterations professional bricklayer Building for you Phone Gerard - 626 730

AWNINGS - FLY SCREENS - INTERNAL BLINDS SHADING SPAIN, WITH...

764

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Tel: 627 907 207

www.solshaders.net

Solar Panels

Tel: 619 744 516

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Dreamliner: Boeing says flights to restart in ‘weeks

Boeing has said that it expects commercial flights of its Dreamliner 787 plane to restart within “weeks”.

The comments come just days after the US airline regulator approved its plan to redesign the lithium-ion batteries used on the plane.

All 50 Dreamliners in operation were grounded earlier this year after batteries on some planes emitted smoke Boeing said it had found a fix for the problem and had been carrying out tests on the proposed solution.

Ray Connor, president of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said the timing of the start of commercial flight would depend on how fast the firm can “move through the certification process”.

“We don’t anticipate that being months, we are thinking more along the line of weeks,” he said.

The Dreamliner 787 is the first plane in the world to use the lithium-ion batteries, which are lighter, hold more power and recharge more quickly. It is also said to be one of the most advanced and fuel-efficient planes in the industry.

However, concerns have been raised over its safety after a string of incidents earlier this year. In January, a fire started in a lithium-ion battery pack of a Japan Airlines 787 in Boston. Meanwhile, an All Nippon Airways flight was forced to make an emergency landing because of a battery malfunction.

The incidents led to the entire fleet of Dreamliners being grounded by the authorities. However, Boeing has since submitted a plan to redesign the batteries to ensure their safety.

Its plan includes improving the battery design to stop faults from occurring, enhancing the production, operating and testing processes, and introducing a new battery enclosure system to prevent any overheating

from affecting the plane.

“We may never get to the single root cause, but the process that we’ve applied to understanding what improvements can be made is the most robust process we have ever followed in improving a part in the history,” said Mike Sinnett, the chief project engineer of the Dreamliner.

“So I feel more confident in the performance of the product now, because we’ve addressed many possible things than I would if we had only just addressed one thing.”

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved Boeing’s plan. But the regulator has said that it requires “extensive testing and analysis”.

At the same time, the FAA has so far given no indication of when the planes might be allowed to carry passengers again.

43

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

sport

A day of achievements for Orihuela Costa Monday night fun darts league Torrevieja swimmers On Saturday 16th March, in girls then swam 200m medley Results - Week 21. 11/03/13 the Muncipal pool, “Centro Excursionista Eldense”, Elda, the younger members of Club Natacion Torrevieja stormed through their races and the team tallied up some fantastic results. The 4 older girls gained regional qualifying times in their individual races and collectively in their 4 x 100m medley relay event. The younger team members also had some great swims with outstanding new personal best times.

In this 5th Time Control all swimmers had to swim 100m, 200m, 400m medley races and a medley relay. In addition to these the older boys and girls also swam 200m Freestyle races. A difficult programme in a short space of 2 hours. First to race were Nikita Mikhaylov, Paolo Petrie, Elian Del Rio Castillo 6th, Zoe Connolly 2nd and Alexandra Amat 9th in the 200m Freestyle. All set themselves great new personal bests with Zoe achieving a regional qualifying time of 2:39:96.

Then the youngest team members swam 100m Medley for the first time in competition. All swam well and achieved good times. Next the older Benjamin boys and girls swam the 200m medley.

Victoria Pigneur came 3rd - 3:23:90, Samira Burbano ,4th - 3:24:82, and Bastian Martinez 4th - 3:06:36 all having fantastic swims with great new personal bests knocking up to 20 seconds off previous times.

The younger Alevin

with both Paula Garcia, 4th 3:04:60 Eva Kovalenko, 6th 3:12:32 qualifying for regional autonomic competitions with their times.

Finally in the last of the individual events Nikita, Paolo, Alexandra and Zoe swam the tiring 400m medley. None of the 4 had ever raced this event before and all worked hard. Zoe and Alexandra won 1st - 6:17:79 and 4th 7:06:64 position. Zoe’s time qualifies her for the regional competitions in this event.

Then to finish a good day of racing the club entered into 3 medley relays the boys Benjamin 4 x50m medley and Alevin 4 x 100m medley and the girls Alevin 4 x 100m medley relay. In this event the girls team stormed ahead with a time of 5:57 qualifying them all for regional relays.

Well done everyone a very successful day of swimming.

For more information regarding Torrevieja Swimming Club please contact Rosa - 665454126 or President Felipe on 609418776 or by e-mail on info@clubnataciontorrevieja. com

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EL PLANTIO WELCOMES SMGS Last week’s improvement in the weather conditions was obviously just to lull us hardened golfers into a false sense of security.

This game of ours is difficult enough in the most benign of conditions but “golf in a gale” makes the task a whole different ball game!

Had we all been meeting on La Zenia beach for a spell of wind-surfing, then conditions were perfect but as it was the only attempt at water sports was made on several occasions by a few of my nice new Srixons ….. needless to say they didn’t stay above the water for long.

San Miguel Golf Society members trundled up to the hills adjacent to Alicante airport where the popular El Plantio course, otherwise known as the Green Valley Golf Resort, nestles against a gentle hillside.

Those of us who thought that this sheltered spot may well shield us from the force ten howler were soon found to be grossly mistaken as it rapidly became a day of oscillating balls and flying hats!

A Stableford Waltz was the team format for the day where teams of three endeavoured to amass as many points as possible heading for a par total of around 72. That may well have been the target under more normal circumstances but when simply trying to anchor oneself to take any kind of shot was near impossible, the scores were

to fall mighty shy.

You’d think from near 100 balls being fired at all the par 3’s that there’d be a bit of a tussle for the nearest the pins…….It may help to demonstrate how unhelpful the swirling wind was when I tell you that ONE PLAYER managed to stay on ONE GREEN…..and that was only by an inch or two.

Many congratulations to Jacqui Marshall, a member of El Plantio, for winning NTP on hole 9 – must have been local knowledge!

Once again it was the weather that came out the clear winner on the day but in the golf it was the three ball comprising Ray Ewins, Chris Hamblett and Norman McBride, with their very modest total of 58 points, that took first prize.

Phil Birtwistle, Bill Preston and Eric Strachan came a close second with just one point less. Our very desirable and often much sought after “Abacus” award for bottom spot is usually a bottle of fine wine. However, Graham Cockayne, Keith Wickham and Klaus John had overestimated our prize fund which couldn’t run to a bottle of vino each – they had to be content with a can of San Miguel per man, at least they were large cans!

Pay a visit to www.smgs. org or give Phil B. a ring on 659 439 074 to find out about or to book in to any of our forthcoming Wednesday meetings. Visitors are always made very welcome.

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Lime Bar Golf Society

Los Altos, Orihuela Costa The golf societies venue for the 13th March 2013 was held at the Altorreal Golf Course.

The weather was cold in an extremely strong wind making play difficult, however this did not deter an enjoyable round of golf on a course a number of our players had not played before. This is the furthest our society has travelled to date, making the relevant ‘Sat Nav’s’ come into their own and a few curses expressed as well.

The competition was in the stableford format and the scores are recorded as follows.

Nearest the Pin on the 8th hole was Colin Capper.

Nearest the pin on the 17th hole was Pete Rushton.

Best guest with a score of 15 was John MacGregor.

Silver Class 3rd place was Colin Clarke with a score of 28 points.

Silver Class 2nd place was Andy MacDonald with a score

Fairwayz GS Today our members played

at Alenda Golf course, and as usual the course was in fabulous condition, however the weather was against us yet again! This is the only year that i can think of since being a member of Fairwayz, that we have had such a bad run of weather. I must have a word with Tony our Captain and ask him what he’s playing at, usually he arranges good weather as well as the good courses that we play on. So as you can imagine scores were a little on the low side, but 28 of us still enjoyed our day. The scores were as follows:Gold Category.

1st - Geoff Branton 31pts 2nd - John Saunders 26pts Best front 9 Steve Hamilton 15pts Best back 9 Steve Lawrence 13pts.

Nearest the pin Steve Hamilton Nearest the pin in 2 -

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of 29 Points.

Silver Class 1st place was Mark Taylor with a score of 33 points.

Gold Class 3rd place was Graham Mitchell with a score of 25 points.

Gold Class 2nd place was Mick Slater with a score of 330.

Gold Class 1st place was Bob Addair with a score of 32.

An enjoyable day in pleasant company, thank you to Captain Mick Slater and for organising the event and also thanks to the Staff at The Lime Bar and ladies for a most enjoyable meal. Anyone wishing to Join our friendly society just need to phone Mick on 659866468 or Stewart on 966180003. In addition I would like to thank our stand-in photographer Kevin Pritchard.

Norman Padmore.

Silver Category.

1st - Dave Barrett 26pts.

2nd - Phil Bowditch 22pts.

Best front 9 Tony Macmillan 12pts Best back 9 Pete Smith 10pts.

Nearest the pin - Iris Cleaver.

Nearest the pin in 2 - Stuart Taylor.

2 ball winner Dave Whittington Thanks to Tony Macmillan and Steve Hamilton for arranging the day. Next week 21st March we will play at Altorreal. 1st tee is at 10:15am.

28th March we are at Vistabella, 1st tee is 09:30am.

Please be at the courses 1 hour prior to 1st tee times.

On 25th April we will be playing the PEDRO cup at Alenda, get your name on the sheet because places are limited!!!!

Thanks, Steve Lawrence.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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46

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

sport

Eurogolf, La Marquesa 62 members took part in the American Greensomes Competition at our home course of La Marquesa on Thursday 14 March. The format of the game challenged some of our members’ understanding, even though they thought they knew what game we were playing, some teams couldn’t get it right.

Although the sky was blue, the wind was blowing at what felt about 60 mph. This was great on the holes when the wind was with you but not so good when it was against you. Club choice was at a premium today.

Congratulations to Pine Perito who played a magnificent shot on the 11th and scored a hole in one. Thanks for the drink Pino.

The results are as follows: 1st Roy Lowe and Jan Tocker 39 points 2nd Malcolm Foskett and Cindi Green 38 points c/b 3rd Jill Young and Tom Hull 38 points Nearest the Pins 5th Dave King 11th Pino Perito HOLE IN ONE

15th Mike Young 17th Franco Gentili OVERALL WINNERS OF AMERICAN GREENSOMES ROY LOWE AND JANET TOCKER. Football Winners: Bruce Gordon, Chris Stanley, Morag Turner and Tony Hitt.

There are still a few places left for the Away Day on 14 April at Vista Bella. Speak to Ian next week if you want to be included.

TOFF’s Results Tuesday 12 March 2013 Overall Winner –Mike Gillett Gold Division 1st Roy Lowe 35 points 2nd Robin Richards 32 points 3rd Tony Hitt 32 points Silver 1st Mike Gillett 38 points 2nd Rachel Leckey 35 points 3rd Ian Turner 32 points Bronze 1st Roderick Duff 37 points 2nd Marylin Eckersall 32 points 3rd Alex Ralph 29 points Best Front Nine Ian Stewart 18 Best Back Nine: Terry Sayers - 17

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ITV ORIHUELA RFC FIGHT BACK IN VAIN

At the weekend ITV Orihuela RFC played their final league game of the season away to Cartagena on Saturday, and I was given the details of the match due to the 6 Nations.

Unfortunately, we had the same referee as the previous week, but as always we have to play to them regardless of what we think.

In the first half Orihuela put up a brave fight to keep the home side at bay on their new home ground, but with decisions going against them the defence was finally broken with Cartagena getting the first try of the game.

The game continued to flow to

and fro, but it was Cartagena that went in at half time 14-0 up.

In the second half Orihuela fought back bravely making sure that the home side had it far from their own way running in a couple of unanswered tries of their own by Alvaro and Alvin.

Cartagena hit back with another converted try, but as it has been shown all season Orihuela were not going to lie down and take it and continued their fight back with Alvin getting a converted try, Jose with the conversion. Bringing Orihuela back to within one score difference.

CLAPTONS GOLF SOCIETY BONALBA GOLF AND SPA 15th MARCH 2013 This month’s competition was played at Bonalba. On arrival at the course the sun was shining and we looked set for a really good days golf. The first tee was put back to 10am to allow the course to make sure that the buggies were in good condition which in the end we found that the batteries on some were in poor shape, and left us limping on the course. In the event, being already on the tee, we got away earlier.

Course looked to be playing well and the greens were fast and true, and good scores looked the order of the day.

Bonalba being a course where the head is more use than the driver, which makes it difficult to play, we still managed a good array of scores as seen in the results below. Everybody having finished we made our way back to the Clubhouse for the presentation and a meal laid on by Chris and his staff. Many thanks for their hospitality.

Overall Winner Iain Ralph 36 points Gold Winner Mark Pollitt 35 points Gold Runner Up Brian Abbott

34 points Silver Winner Phil Docherty 30 points Silver Runner Up John Harvey 30 points on c/b Best Front Nine Bill Martin 17 points on c/b Best Back Nine Terry Sharley 17 points on c/b Nearest the Pin 4th Rick Drake 8th Mark Pollitt 11th Chris Gridley 14th Terry Smith Most Potential: Bob Waite Doubles match: Chris Gridley and Dave Pretty bt Paul Burletson and Mark Pollitt on the sudden death 19th hole.

Twos competition Bill the bandit Martin.

Next meeting at Altorreal 19th April.

With further exchanges of points with Raffa getting his second try in two games converted by Jose it just was not to be with Cartagena unfortunately, running out 3324 winnings and again for the second year the referee playing a big part in their win.

Again the standard of refereeing has a lot to be desired, but we have to swallow that bitter pill and except it, but ITV Orihuela RFC came away with a hard earned try bonus point for the second time against the opposition and can hold their heads up high with a job well done.

It has been a great season for them in their 40th year and all of the players and coaches can be very proud of what they have achieved.

This is not the end of the rugby as we have the 7’s circuit coming up and a variety of other tournaments as well as Barnet Elisabethians U18’s coming over to play on 13 April.

This coming weekend we are back televising the Pro 12 and Premiership live rugby matches

at the rugby bar in Rojales, The Steakhouse, used to be Tylers Bar. Starting on Friday with Ospreys v Dragons at 20.00.

On Saturday, Wasps v Saints at 16.00 followed by Treviso v Cardiff at 19.00. Looking forward to seeing another good turn out down there this weekend.

I am down at the Moncayo Market on Saturday, with all the rugby branded clothing, so come down.

Training is at the Miguel Hernandez University ground at 20.15 on Tuesday and Thursday for the seniors and juveniles. The juniors start at 18.15.

So if you are interested, dig out those rugby boots and come along and see for yourself what it is like. New players are always welcome no matter what age or skill level you are.

If you would like more information about what is going on in the club, you can contact the club by phoning myself, Garry on 692 767 242, and for the juniors contact Oscar on 600 871 606 (Spanish)

Lo Marabu Golf Society (in association with Costa 4th Mike Probert 31 points Blanca Green Fee Services) at Corvera 14th March 2013.

For this month’s interim meeting a group of 19 players visited the new course at Corvera taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

The weather was bright and sunny but very high winds made scoring difficult but there were still some excellent scores.

The winners on the day were as follows: 1st Colin Edwards 34 points 2nd Winston Blackwood 33 points 3rd Dave Marriott 33 points

Best Front 9 Arthur Walker 19 points Best Back 9 Mike Probert 17 points Nearest Pins: D Bensley, J Blinston and P McMurray 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 Alenda on 28th March 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-blanca-greenfees.com.

Quesada Golf Society Wednesday 13th March at El Valle 16 members started out to play a 2 man texas scramble at El Valle full of vim and zest only to return 5 hrs later bedraggled weary and very tired, not only from trying to play golf but from the elements that rained down on us. Wind like we very rarely see, bitterly cold and rain as well.

The course itself was in very good condition the greens were quite fast if you could keep the

ball still long enough to putt.

One of our gentlemen players Ken Parker was blown over on the tee at one point. On hole 18 Janet Candilin thought she had hit a good tee shot only for it to find a boulder which shot it up in the air and back at her feet.

Everyone seems to be reluctant to spill the beans this week which could mean that they all suffered out there at some time.

Results 1st Place Brian Smith & David James 85.50 2nd Place David Winchcombe & Alan Evans 85.85 3rd Place John King & Les Lindores 89.64 Nearest the Pin Hole 6 Pam Martin Nearest the Pin Hole 12 Tony Patterson The next game is on Wednesday 27th March at Alenda and our next members meeting is on 3rd April at QCC 10.30am Reported by Pam Martin

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

GREENLANDS BOWLS CLUB

BY STEVE HIBBERD Greenlands Bowls Club held their annual championships finals recently, in what turned out to be a glorious sunny weekend. This years ladies singles saw Lynn Greenland beat Sue Johnson, whilst in the male equivilent, Jim Oliver saw off a valiant comeback by Graham Bater, to take the crown. Zoe Wilcock & skip Marilyn Fryatt beat Sue Johnson and young Beryl Norris, in what turned out

MAGGOTS END

RODS AND REELS This week, again due to inclement weather conditions we were at Nancy´s aka Sweetwater.

This weeks competition was the 1st of the Summer Championship, a series of 11 matches with the best 8 results to count.

The rain came but only for some 15-20 minutes and at the start of the day. That was the good bit, then the wind got up and blew a hooley, all day!!!! I was pegged by the campsite for those who know the venue, and I was watching and waiting for the palm trees to end up in the water!!!!. Dave Hutchinson although he won the day managed to drop his no 7 section of pole into the flowing water and then waved it goodbye. So if anybody does perchance find a section you will know who it belongs to.

Top Rods on the day 1st Dave ( The Sweetie Man ) Hutchinson fishing the pole using maggot with 8.46 kilo´s.

2nd Clive ( Golf No More ) Cleghorn fishing the pole using

to be an enthralling ladies pairs encounter, won by Marilyn’s last wonder wood (my fav tipple’s a Spitfire by the way!). Congrats to the evergreen Fred Tilley & Glyn Inwood for their victory over seasoned veterans Mel Brown & Brian Pocock (only joking Mel) in the mens pairs.

Mr Pocock again took centre stage, along with his better half Jan, this time in the mixed pairs, but it was Florence & Mike Edwards who deservedly

took the honours. Third time lucky for Brian P, who along with Jan & Mel, triumphed over Dave & Lynn Greenland, plus Barry Latham in the mixed trips. Mixed rinks title went to Phil & Mary Lockley, Sandra Heath & skip Steve Hibberd, who beat the team of Beryl Norris, Keith Page, Brian Miller & skip Barry Collins. Finally, the mens plate went to Dave O’Sullivan, who just squeezed past Brian Miller.

maggot with 7.16 kilo´s.

3rd Dave ( Yours Truly ) Hoare fishing the pole using maggot with 6.76 kilo´s.

In spite of the conditions there were only 3 dry nets.

PLEASE NOTE The club has some vacancies at present, if you are interested in joining please contact Derek Swann on 966729293 or 603535771.

ABBEY ANGLING RESULTS Supplied by Terry Screen The 10th and penultimate round of the Abbey Angling Cup was fished at the Eden Canal on the 12th March.

The water has dropped by a foot and there was hardly any flow, although they are still cutting the bamboos down, there was no reeds floating through this week. Fishermen need to remember that if they are fishing this venue, that the cutter will have reached this stretch in the next week or so.

After the flush the water has begun fishing better with only the one dry net this week 1st Richard (Fishing again)

Kendle with 4.540kg fishing the pole using sweet corn well done!!

2nd Stan (The Man) Roberts with 4.200kg fishing pole and feeder using maggot and corn 3rd Mark (Kens Friend) Harrington with 4.140kg fishing Pole using maggot All details are available on our website www.abbeyangling. com or from the Match Secretary Terry Screen on 965328368 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; angler stogether@hotmail. co.uk.

TIGHT LINES DAVE HOARE

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St. JAMES’S GATE GOLF SOCIETY It was more like Spring this Nearest The Pin: Hole 4:

time back at Vistabella, the weather was close to shorts time, there were one or two optimists out there, but it certainly was shorts sleeves.

Rocket had his cruel streak on him, when he announced it would be a Medal competition, but then again why not that’s what golf is all about. To top all there were some singles knockout matches to be played.

So it was with a lot a trepidation that 20 members and 2 guests set off from Tees 1 and 3 with pencils sharpened and no calculators, no points to be calculated just strokes.

There were some quite respectable scores as Vistabella as a Par of 73, the results of the day were: Gold Category 1st: Alan Moody Nett 75 2nd: Rodney Smith Nett 79 3rd: Ivie Davies Nett 80 cb 4th: Mick Hithersay Nett 80 5th: Les Yates Nett 80 Silver Category 1st: Peter Root Nett 74 cb 2nd: Malcolm Woods Nett 74 3rd: Ron “Rocket” Nicholson Nett 74 4th: John Trailor Nett 83 5th: Ken Hopkins Nett 85

47

sport

Longest Drive: Peter Root Best Guest: Joe McGrath Nett 78.(Now a member) Singles Round KO Results • Peter Root beat Ivie Davies 3 & 2 • Alan Barratt beat Anne Trailor 5 & 3 It was back to Izzy’s Bar where “Rocket” Ron presented the prizes and for our favourite munchies, many thanks again Tony, Jackie and Gold Category Roxy.

Next game is at the watery monster in Los Alcazares, La Serena Golf on Tuesday 26th March, please be there by 10:15 prompt for the first Tee at 11:00. So bring plenty of balls!

For more information or if you wish to play with the arguably the friendliest Golf Society silver Category contact Ron Nicholson on 678849142 or email sanmigron@gmail.com Photos: Category Gold: Ivie Davies, Alan Moody,Rodney Smith Category Silver: Geoff Wild, Maura Mullen, JohnTrailor Nearest The Pins Winners: John Trailor – Liam Foley, Malcolm ntp winners Woods

Malcolm Woods. Hole 8: Liam Foley. Hole 15: John Trailor.

48 SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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