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September 2015
SUPER MOON & LUNAR ECLIPSE COMBINE FOR MAXIMUM WAIT OF ONE MONTH FOR ‘BLOOD MOON’ MURCIA PATIENTS WITH SERIOUS HEALTH Sky-watchers from North and South lunar tetrad. The first three eclipses of the America to western Europe have been enjoying a rare astronomical event in which the moon has appeared to redden in the night’s sky – a so-called blood moon. It’s the result of a rare combination of an eclipse with the closest full moon of the year WHAT IS A BLOOD MOON? Next Total Lunar Eclipse: Wed, 31 Jan 2018 Blood Moon is sometimes used to describe a Total Lunar Eclipse. When the Earth casts its shadow on a Full Moon and eclipses it, the Moon may get a red glow. IT’S PART OF A LUNAR TETRAD The September 28, 2015 Total Lunar Eclipse is the fourth and final eclipse in a series of four total lunar eclipses called the
tetrad took place on April 15, 2014, October 8, 2014 and on April 4, 2015. Notice something interesting about the dates? Each of the eclipses in the tetrad occurs about 6 months apart and have 5 full Moons between them! Lunar tetrads can be rare in some centuries and can occur frequently in others. The 21st century will have 8 lunar tetrads, the maximum number of lunar tetrads that can occur in a century. The last time this happened was in the 9th century! The next lunar tetrad of the 21st century will start with the April 25, 2032 Total Lunar Eclipse. www.theguardian.com / www. timeanddate.com
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PROBLEMS
PATIENTS in the Region of Murcia with serious acute or chronic conditions will be guaranteed appointments, surgery and treatment as necessary within one month, health authorities confirm. Regional government health boss Encarna Guillén says her department wants to cut waiting lists to a minimum, starting with patients classed as 'priority 1', whose medical conditions are not an immediate emergency but are among the most serious. She will give formal jurisdiction to the region's hospitals to take all necessary steps to ensure no 'priority 1' patients are left on the waiting list for more than a month. This means they will be allowed to transfer patients to private hospitals and bill the regional health service, or pay their own doctors and nurses overtime to work in the afternoons and evenings, without having to inform or gain consent from Sra Guillén's department beforehand. Anyone who has been on a waiting list for a full year or more will be the first to be seen. Where practical, patients may be sent to hospitals in other districts for treatment or consultations. In the meantime, Murcia regional health authorities will closely monitor waiting lists and actions taken by clinics to
reduce them. The Region of Murcia treats over 50,000 patients a day, with A&E departments seeing 2,000 cases daily and over 175,000 operations carried out per year. Sra Guillén has pledged to ensure full job security for all healthcare employees and the best possible working conditions so as to guarantee a quality and efficient service for patients. Investments totalling €58 million have been made in expanding the main hospitals in the region, and a further €24m will be ploughed into health service facilities and infrastructure in Murcia over the next three or four years. By: thinkSPAIN
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suppliers of Sky and humax receivers direct from the UK. You will find we are the cheapest on the Costa Blanca. Ask us about Sky cards and subscriptions as well as Al Jazeera cards for bars enabling viewing of Premier League Football matches. WHERE ARE WE? GO SATELLITE is based in Ciudad Quesada and covers most of the Costa Blanca. WHY ARE WE DIFFERENT? Ian said “Being a small company has its advantages. We offer a personal service and get to know all our customers by name. It’s important to us that people fully understand and are happy with the service we are providing. We realise that the technology involved can be confusing but we are happy to spend time with our customers to ensure that they get the best system for their needs”. CUSTOMER SERVICE Any concerns or queries are dealt with in a clear and professional manner and clients can call Ian at any point if they have any queries. This ensures that all of their customers have complete peace of mind throughout the lifetime of the service. Added to that is the fact that GO SATELLITE is a fully legal, Spanish registered business that provides individual, company and community installations with a free no obligation site survey. Go Satellite is going from strength to strength! SATISFIED CUSTOMERS! Over the past 8 years the company has installed hundreds of satellite TV systems for individuals, companies and
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DOMESTIC PET PROTECTION LAW BANS ‘COSMETIC SURGERY’
NEW legislation in Spain has outlawed operations on domestic animals for cosmetic purposes only, including docking tails, removing claws or cutting off ears. A European Union directive has finally been incorporated into national law after 10 years of being put on the back burner in Spain, tightening up on unhealthy practises and making animalowners personally responsible for their pets’ health and wellbeing. Owning, breeding and trading animals is now only permitted where the person involved has sufficient knowledge to do so, which will preclude, for example, horses being sold to people who cannot ride or do not know how to look after them. Also, pets can no longer be used in spectacles, such as circuses or films, or for advertising where doing so would compromise their welfare or health. It is not known whether this will extend to banning bull-fights or bull-running, a thorny issue at present in Spain with an estimated 80% to 90% of Spaniards being against them. The animal protection agreement covers the 48 countries which belong to the Council of Europe, including the 28 members of the European Union, and sets out the basic principles of domestic animal care and obligations for owners,
non-owners with custody of pets, and political institutions at all levels. The latter forces councils and governments to correctly manage stray or feral animals, including colonies of feral cats, in a safe and humane way and to develop and promote education, information and awareness campaigns. Once the legislation has gone through all the necessary legal hoops within the Spanish government, Spain will be the 18th country in Europe to have adopted the directive. Many nations which belong to the Council of Europe lag behind, given that the animal protection agreement was signed off in Strasbourg in 1987. The agreement formally recognises the ‘special relationship’ between domestic animals and humans, emphasises the contribution humans make to animals’ quality of life, and pets’ value to society. Recommendations within it include not giving pets as gifts to the under16s without the express permission of their parents or legal adult guardians, and not giving pets away as prizes, as well as discouraging unplanned breeding or owning wild animals as pets. thinkspain.com
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Mas vows to push on with secession despite winning just 48% of vote
Current premier calls on detractors of independence to respect outcome of Sunday’s vote. By the time 96 percent of votes had been counted at 11pm on Sunday, with a majority of seats – 62 out of 135 – going to his Junts pel Sí (Together for Yes) coalition, Catalan premier Artur Mas had already been celebrating victory for nearly two hours. At 9.15pm, the Catalan premier called his bloc’s results at the regional elections a “double victory.” “Today we have a double victory. The ‘yes’ vote has won, and democracy has won as well,” said Mas about a parliamentary election that he has cast as a proxy vote on the issue of independence. We will manage victory in a spirit of cohesion within Catalonia, and a spirit of concord with Spain, Europe and the world” Prior to the elections, secessionist leaders had announced their intention to carry on with the breakaway process and declare independence within 18 months, should they earn an absolute majority of seats on Sunday. The results indicate that Mas and his partners will in all likelihood carry on creating “state structures,” such a tax collection agency, despite Madrid’s vocal opposition to such a plan. “We will not let up. We have won despite having everything against us, and
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this gives us enormous strength and great legitimacy to carry this project forward,” Mas told a crowd of cheering supporters. The Catalan premier, who heads the Convergence (CDC) party, also asked rivals to respect the results of the election. “Just like we, as democrats, would have accepted defeat, we ask for others to accept Catalonia’s victory and the victory of ‘yes’.” But Junts pel Sí is attributing itself a victory in votes as well, by not counting support for the leftist coalition Catalunya Sí que es Pot as a ‘no’ vote for independence. “The ‘yes’ option has won in votes and in seats,” said Oriol Junqueras of the Catalan Republican Left (ERC), Mas’s main partner in Junts pel Sí. “We have a more than sufficient majority to forge ahead with independence for Catalonia.” Mas also sought to allay concerns about a growing rift among supporters and detractors of independence in Catalonia, where the non-secessionist party Ciudadanos has become the second most-voted party with 25 seats. “We will manage victory in a spirit of cohesion within Catalonia, and a spirit of concord with Spain, Europe and the world,” he said. elpais.com
Superyacht sinks A LUXURY yacht sank in the port of Dénia (Alicante province) and the fire brigade had to be called in to bail it out. The craft was moored at the time, and its bow had tipped into the sea, meaning the front end quickly filled up with water and pulled it down even further. Staff at Dénia dockyard attempted to bail out using four small electronically-powered pumps, but were unable to keep up with the
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September 2015
Valencia axes prescription charges for low-income pensioners and the disabled
REGIONAL health authorities in the Comunidad Valenciana plan to scrap prescription charges for pensioners on a low income and the disabled. “Many have to choose between taking necessary medication, and paying their bills,” says minister Carmen Montón. “In the last two months alone, 7.9% of people in the Valencia region have had to stop taking their medication because they cannot afford it – and that's desperately unfair. “Society deserves an apology, because healthcare has not been a priority in the past and patients have been neglected; plus, the PP government has used the region as a laboratory rat for privatisation of healthcare. “Although we have a serious underfinancing problem, there is still a very wide margin for prioritising our expenses.” For the past three years, anyone earning €18,000 a year or more in gross pay has had to pay 50% of the full retail price for any medication prescribed, with a few lines of chroniccare drugs exempt. This can be anything from a couple of euros to €50 or more per prescription. Anyone in receipt of a State pension from any country for retirement or permanent disability has always been exempt from payment, with 'red' prescription documents showing they get free medicine as opposed to 'green' prescriptions for those who have to pay a contribution. Now everyone of any age and with any level of income has to pay towards their essential medication. But Sra Montón says this is due to stop for pensioners who take home less than €1,000 a month, or for the permanently disabled. She is heavily critical of the previous PP-led regional government, which was in power for 20 years, for 'wasting money on non-essentials' at the expense of financing the health service. “They threw away unprecedented amounts of cash on huge events and infrastructures which have ruined us,” she says. “With what the now-defunct Formula 1 street circuit cost the taxpayer, we could have built six state-of-the-art hospitals like the one in Llíria [Valencia province] or 200 GP surgeries; and the money invested in the Ágora stadium at the City of Arts and Sciences would have been enough to build two new district hospitals or 66 local GP practices.” The lifting of prescription charges is
in spite of the fact the regional health service will be €1.1 billion down before the end of the year. “Just for general running costs to keep the system going, we need €6.6bn a year and the budget for 2015 does not even come to €5.5m – plus we've got to pay a fine to the EU of €19 million for the PP's having lied about its financial situation by hiding invoices in drawers,” Montón reveals. As part of her department's plan to reduce health service costs without any negative impact on standards of care, Carmen Montón says the privatised hospitals in Alzira, Manises (Valencia province) and Dénia, Elche and Torrevieja (Alicante province) will be put back in public-sector hands, but before this takes place, her team will 'scrupulously enforce' the terms of contracts held with these district healthcare management companies and closely monitor their finances. “The premise that the private-sector management firm is always right is over,” she states. In the past few weeks, the Comunidad Valenciana has been one of several regions in Spain which has decided to fly in the face of the central government and re-establish free healthcare for everyone. Three years ago, the State health ministry, led by Ana Mato – who has since resigned over her suspected involvement in a nationwide corruption racket – ceased all medical care for non-EU immigrants without residence permits, forcing them to pay, except in the event of life-or-death emergencies, child-bearing, and the under-18s. Many of these so-called 'illegal' migrants are foreign residents who have lived in Spain for years, if not decades, but whose permits expired when they were out of a job, meaning they were not allowed to renew them. In the Comunidad Valenciana alone, some 30,000 people were affected, and they are gradually being given back their health cards. Around 3,500 have already been reregistered in the system. In practice, many family doctors whose registered patients were 'illegal' migrants continued to treat them based upon a conscientious objection, although where they needed referring to specialists, difficulties could arise if these did not share the same view. thelocal.comn
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September 2015
SAM SMITH BOND SONG SPLITS OPINION
JON SNOW IS ‘ALIVE’ AS KIT HARINGTON PICTURED FILMING GAME OF THRONES IN FULL COSTUME
The actor was ‘killed off’ the show in the last series, but new snaps of him on set in Belfast appear to show he’s back from the dead The actor sparked rumours he’s alive Kit Harington has sparked rumours his Game Of Thrones character Jon Snow could be ALIVE, after he was spotted appearing to film scenes for the HBO series in Belfast. The actor’s character was supposedly killed off in the last season finale, but a snap of him in full costume in front of the cameras on Friday has put that firmly in doubt. And fans have (understandably) gone into full meltdown. Playing the part of the Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch once again, with his sword by his side, the star slipped straight back into character. Jon Snow, Game of ThronesJon Snow appeared to die? It’s unclear if he’s really back from the dead, or if the series is filming a look back in time, but it’s hope for all
those devastated viewers either way. He has been snapped in Ireland several times over the last few weeks, and appeared to be deep in conversation with the production team this week. It comes after endless fan theories over his character’s death, and all the possible ways he could be saved and brought back to life. And Kit himself hinted he would be returning to his star role recently, telling Belgian magazine Humo: “Let’s just say that Game Of Thrones will remain a part of my life for a while. “I’ll probably be in my thirties when it’s over,”he added. However HBO programming chief Michael Lombardo appeared to claim the contrary previously, telling reporters: “Dead is dead is dead. He be dead. Yes.” He added: “Everything I’ve seen, heard and read, Snow is dead.” http://www.mirror.co.uk/
Bond song ‘not a classic but good enough’ Reactions to Sam Smith’s theme song for new James Bond film Spectre vary widely following its unveiling earlier on Nick Grimshaw’s Radio 1 breakfast show. Former Bond actor Sir Roger Moore called Writing’s On the Wall “very haunting and wonderfully orchestrated”. But other Twitter users have been less complimentary, with one describing it as the “worst Bond theme ever”. BBC entertainment correspondent Colin Paterson said it was “good enough, but not a classic”. The song, whose full version runs for 4 minutes and 38 seconds, begins with the words: “I’ve been here before / But always hit the floor.” “I’ve spent a lifetime running, and I always get away,” it continues. “But with you I’m feeling something, that makes we want to stay.” “I think it’s a song about a man deciding to quit it all for love,” Paterson said of the track on BBC Breakfast, comparing its melody to that of Michael Jackson’s 1995 single Earth Song. He also suggested it was far superior to Die Another Day, the much-derided song Madonna contributed to the 2002 Bond film of that name. Comedian David Schneider was not convinced, greeting the song’s release with the words: “The name is Bland. James Bland.” Yet fellow comic Omid Djalili was far more
effusive, tweeting the song had left him “in a broken heap.” “If you’re not moved by this song you don’t have a pulse,” wrote Djalili, who had a small role in 1999 Bond film The World is Not Enough. Writing’s On the Wall may be partially inspired by this scene from Spectre Smith is the first solo male British act to perform a Bond film’s theme song since 1964, when Tom Jones was heard over the opening credits of Thunderball. The last Bond theme, Adele’s song for 2012’s Skyfall, peaked at number two in the UK singles chart. No Bond song has ever reached the top of the UK chart, and opinion is divided whether Smith’s track will do so. Canadian pop star Justin Bieber is currently at number one and is expected to remain there when this week’s chart is revealed later on Friday. Smith himself has said he and his songwriting partner, Jimmy Napes, wanted to create a song that was “timelessly classic”. “This isn’t about me, about my life,” he said in a promotional video for the song. “I just hope people listen to it and think, ‘That’s Bond’.” The song’s title appears to derive from a scene in Spectre, viewed briefly in the film’s trailer, in which James Bond’s name is found scrawled upon a wall. http://www.bbc.com/
DAWN FRENCH’S 15-BED HOLIDAY HOME: COMIC PUTS CORNISH HOUSE WHICH HOLDS 33 GUESTS ON THE MARKET
Substantial property has picturesque view of West Loo, Cornwall Huge home, called Clipper House, is divided into three self-contained parts French stands to make big profits - she bought the home for £340,000 Dawn French is selling her 15-bedroom Cornish holiday home for offers around £725,000. With stunning views over a picturesque harbour and room for up to 33 guests, Clipper House may seem like a bargain. But potential buyers will have to overlook the old-fashioned exterior and the fact it is divided into three self-contained units, ideal for letting out to holidaymakers, as Miss French has done. What a view! The outside of Clipper House has extensive views of the harbour at West Looe in Cornwall Large: THe 15-bedroom home has three storeys and a large ground-floor parking garage Besides the seaside: French’s home is not far from the beach - and could be hired out for as much as £250,000 a year According to TV property expert Sarah Beeny,
who has listed the house in West Looe on her internet estate agency Tepilo, the star of the Vicar Of Dibley could have earned up to £250,000 a year renting it out. Now Miss French is set to make a profit of nearly £400,000, after buying the property 15 years ago for £340,000. Describing the house, Miss Beeny admitted that it ‘might not be that beautiful’ on the outside, but suggested the new owners could ‘spruce it up’ for a few thousand pounds. Home comforts: The kitchen has a rustic style and a breakfast bar for quick snacks On sale: Miss French is set to make a profit of nearly £400,000 since she bought the property 15 years ago She added: ‘I happen to know the wonderful Dawn French has spent a considerable amount of time in this property. And you never know, some of her genius might rub off on you.’ Miss French, 57, also owns a £2.6million clifftop mansion down the coast in Fowey, where she lives with husband Mark Bignell. Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/
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www.soltimes.com
A BRITON FACES FOUR AND A HALF YEARS IN PRISON FOR DEFRAUDING HIS COMPATRIOTS
He did so using an illegal property The Almería Prosecution is requesting four years and six months in prison for the 59 year old British citizen accused of defrauding his compatriots, by selling them as their ‘main residential home’ a detached house in Arboleas (Almería), which he presumably built without a licence on non-buildable land. Almería City Court - photo www. teinteresa.es In a provisional written qualification the Public Ministry has charged G.D.C. of carrying out the crime of fraud, and in addition to the prison term, a 16 month fine or six euro a day. The accused was the administrator of one of two companies and with ‘the wish to make an illegal profit’ established the contract for the private sale of the house in February 2001 to British married couple. The contract included a plot of land in the La Cinta district, and the sale had the condition this was included. The prosecutor remarked that the prejudices of the contract had the intention of converting the house into his usual residence with ‘total knowledge of the lack of the corresponding licences and
permissions demanded by law’. In March, G.D.C. signed a new contract with the same purchasers for the same sale which converted them into the promoters of the property, and in which the accused added the undertaking to ‘connect water and electricity supplies’ any extra building taxes and all the legal fees. The Almería Prosecution notes such a licence does not exist and neither would a first occupancy licence be issued on nonbuildable land, adding G.D.C ‘knew full well the illegality of the property and was prejudicing the purchasers with his sale’. Meanwhile, Almería City Hall, had received a request to build a storeroom to store agricultural materials in June 2002. The total cost of the sale was 190,324 € which was totally liquidated on February 1 2006, after in 2004, he added an adjoining garage at a cost of 14,200 € typicallyspanish.com
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September 2015
ON THIS DAY
CATHY STILL HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE!
30th Sept. 1955 :
James Dean the well known young Movie Star who starred in Rebel Without A Cause dies at the age of 24 in a car crash in his Porsche in California.
HOW JAMES DEAN CHANGED ACTING
Former artiste Cathy Carson was the post-meeting guest as she took to the stage to chat about her life growing up in the entertainment industry. Cathy had the audience enthralled as she covered her 49 year career in a little over 20 minutes, from her early days as a young lass in Lincolnshire, with summer season bookings along the coast, to a tour of the United States when she was just 14 years old. She told how she was offered a contract by CBS Records when she was performing in Philadelphia. However, she felt she was just a little too young so she turned it down, and even today she still wonders what might have been! She returned to the UK to become lead vocalist with the popular band called The Three New Pennies and
when it eventually disbanded Cathy continued her career into the 90’s as a soloist. After a break, which included a move to Spain, Cathy once again hit the venues on the Costa Blanca. Now she was well supported by ‘Tubby Hubby’ Keith Brown, but all too soon she once again decided to put her solo career on hold as she took on the post of Musical Director with the Charity singers TAABS, a role that she held until her retirement 3 years ago. And just one final request from the members saw Cathy break into song once again with a couple of her all time favourites which she closed, hopefully not for the last time, to thunderous applause.
Sixty years ago, on September 30, 1955, on a lonely stretch of two-lane highway in Northern California, James Dean was killed in a head-on collision. The Porsche Spyder 550 he was driving slammed into a Ford sedan when its driver did not see Dean coming and made a left-hand turn in front of him. In the violent wreck, Dean’s neck was broken. He died on impact. He was 24 years old. At the time, Dean had made three pictures, but only East of Eden, Elia Kazan’s adaptation of John Steinbeck’s novel, had been released. In a flood of gushing reviews, critics singled out Dean for his career-making performance as the emotive, evil brother in Steinbeck’s retelling of the Cain and Abel myth. The death of the rising young star made headlines nationwide. Hedda Hopper summed up the sentiment in Hollywood when she wrote in the Los Angeles Times, “I’m still reeling from the death of James Dean, one of the greatest acting talents I’ve ever known.” Not a month later, Rebel Without a Cause was released, and audiences lined up to see Nicholas Ray’s drama about troubled youth in America. Dean may have just died, but suddenly there he was—alive on movie screens across the country. No one could have predicted the response of the audience. Instead of being repulsed by the idea of watching a dead actor on the screen, audiences were moved by Dean’s portrayal of Jim Stark. Many could identify with the misunderstood teenager who copes with his pain by hiding behind a “cool” façade. http://www.thedailybeast.com/
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September 2015
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ASHWAGANDHA:
The Powerful Health Benefits and Beauty Benefits You Need to Know
10 Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
1. The benefits of Ashwagandha are perfect for those battling stress, as it inhibits high levels of cortisol, ‘the stress hormone’. It is in fact used in tranquilizers and antidepressants drugs, since it helps relieve physical and mental stress and overcome depression. 2. Ashwagandha has a rich history in Ayurveda for its wound healing abilities. Traditionally, fresh leaves were used topically to heal joint pains, skin sores and to reduce swelling. 3. The results, published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine show that Ashwagandha helps promote relaxation as it is a natural adaptogen. 4. In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is referred to as balya, which means giving strength in conditions like general debility. It is known to improve energy, increase stamina and endurance. 5. The exotic herb is a promising alternative treatment for a variety of mental degenerative diseases because it has demonstrated an ability to promote the growth of nerve cells, and protect the brain cells from the harmful effects of the environment. 6. Ashwagandha is used as an aphrodisiac as well, since it supports sexual health. 7. It has been used for centuries as a general body tonic, as it makes you feel stronger and healthier. It is also present in Chyawanprash, the delicious and famous concoction stocked up in every Indian household. 8. In addition to boosting your overall immunity, Ashwagandha also has the potential to be a serious anti-cancer agent as it slows the growth of cancerous tumors. 9. “Ashwagandha also acts on the endocrine system by encouraging hormone balance”, says Dr Ashutosh Gautam, Clinical Operations and Coordination Manager at Baidyanath. Studies suggest reduction in symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings during menopause. 10. The rejuvenating properties of Ashwagandha make it very effective in treating insomnia. It calms the nervous system, eases stress and gets rid of sleeplessness. Traditionally, it is used as a powder mixed with honey and warm milk for calming vata and regulating your sleep and wake cycles. You can also have a cup of hot milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of powdered Ashwagandha before bedtime
Beauty Benefits of Ashwagandha
Tired of looking in the mirror at wrinkled, dry, sagging skin? It’s Ashwagandha to the rescue. Its potent antioxidant properties help protect the skin against free
Ashwagandha: The Powerful Health Benefits and Beauty Benefits You Need to KnowAshwagandha, the magical herb, is considered to be a nature’s gift to mankind. For centuries, Ayurvedic medicine has used it to treat people for their day to day woes such as stress, anxiety, exhaustion, lack of sleep et al. And with an abundance of antioxidants, iron and amino acids, it’s no surprise that Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic healing. It is classified as a rasayana i.e. rejuvenation in Ayurveda and expected to promote physical and mental health, restore the body and increase longevity. It has been glorified over time for its dual capacity to energise and calm at the same time. But what exactly is Ashwagandha? It is a small shrub with yellow flowers and a red fruit, native to India, North Africa, and the Middle East. The extract is typically taken from the berries or roots of the plant. The Sanskrit term Ashwagandha translates to “smell of horse”, and rightly so. Traditionally, it is believed that a person who consumes this herbal medicine will gain horse-like strength and vitality. It is also referred to as Withania Somnifera(Latin name), Indian Ginseng or Winter Cherry. Dr Ashutosh Gautam, Clinical Operations and Coordination Manager at Baidyanath says, “Ashwagandha can be taken in the form of powder or tablet. For added benefit, it can also be put in to Kashmiri kahwa, which is a green tea. Ashwagandha has hormone balancing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties which can prevent and treat a number of diseases. It is popularly used for boosting immunity, anti-ageing, joint pain and insomnia. Due to its active ingredient called withanolides, Ashwagandha is also used as an “adaptogen” to help the body cope with daily stress, as a general tonic and for improving thinking ability. It also improves the brain’s memory functions like attention and concentration, hence helping with the symptoms of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. It enables the body to reserve and sustain vital energy throughout the day while promoting sound, peaceful sleep at night.” These varied benefits are what makes Ashwagandha a go-to choice in Indian herbal medicine.
radical damage and slow down the ageing process by firming up your skin for a more youthful look. Skincare: Ashwagandha stimulates DHEA, which is a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen and stimulates the production of natural skin oils. It also promotes the production of vital compounds and proteins for healthy skin such as hyaluronan for skin hydration, elastin to keep the skin supple and collagen for skin strength. For glowing skin, you can also use Ashwagandha as a toner with dried ginger and lemon. Healthy Hair: Used in shampoos, Ashwagandha is believed to help improve scalp circulation and strengthen the hair, as well as help get rid of dandruff. It also appears to stimulate production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of your hair. So, it may actually reverse greying of hair. And if that wasn’t enough, it also helps deal with hair loss. Note: If you want to look younger, feel healthier, sleep better - this miraculous herb is just the ticket for you. http://food.ndtv.com/
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September 2015
HOME & GARDEN
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As long as there have been cities, people have dreamed of leaving them. The busier our lives become, and the more ever-connected we are, so the lure of the wild grows. The bible for cabin dwellers has always been Henry Thoreau’s Walden: Or, Life in the Woods, in which the young man “went to the woods because [he] wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life” and found that we all “need the tonic of wildlife”. But the fantasy of a little house in the forest is as enduring as the landscape itself, and updated every few years. Its latest incarnation couldn’t ask for a more 21st-century title: Cabin Porn. Since 2009 the blog has built an international fanbase of thousands, who flock to the site to daydream of a simpler life. There are hundreds of pictures of cabins in every different style: stone huts, angular Scandinavian prefabs, hunters’ lodges. Now the website has been turned into a book, with highlights from the past six years alongside practical tips on how to build your own cabin. The word porn might sound tacky, but the site – and the book – are instead a charter for wistfulness. There are converted boats in British Columbia, bungalows in California, 19th-century stacked-stone cottages in Switzerland, log cabins in Argentina and saunas in Wales. The founder, Zach Klein, says not a day passes when he isn’t asked about the site’s provocative name. “Porn suggests a kind of superficiality, or fantasy,” he says. “But the reality is that
we founded the blog as a collection of inspiration for very real projects. The name has helped because people find it funny – we have a wide readership because people get a chuckle out of it. I’m not sure I’d rename it if I had the chance. It’s turned out pretty well.”
On the edge: Crater Cove Fisherman Cabins, Sydney, Australia.
They practise what they preach, too. Just before we speak, Klein has been off-grid for 10 days at Beaver Brook, his property in upstate New York where each summer he teaches paying customers how to make their own cabin. Klein made his name in tech as one of the founders of video-sharing site Vimeo, but says the woods have always been his first love. “I grew up in the Midwest, and during my childhood all I ever wanted to do was go backpacking,” he says. “As soon as I had some savings I looked to get out of the city and buy some land.” He knows he is part of a rich tradition of cabin literature. “Our fascinations with the frontier and having your own place are nothing new,” he says. “But we have repackaged them and made them palpable to a generation which grew up online. Young people have grown up bombarded by this idea that success must always mean something bigger and better. But when you see these cabins, they are almost a counterproposal: happiness and satisfaction can be achieved much sooner, with autonomy and self-reliance. Success is a lot smaller than Reforms you think it is.”
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HOMES: WHY DARK GREY IS A BRIGHT IDEA Gray isn’t merely grey…
Gray is the hot new “in” color. It’s recently taken front and center, upstaging it’s neutral cousins, taupe, beige and ivory.
Grays themselves are very complex as hues and undertones take on shades of pink, blue, lavenders and greens that all add an extra layer of complexity, sophistication and energy. Some grays are reminiscent of the beautiful old cathedrals of Europe, evoking a sense of history, longevity and strength. Other grays are more modern in feel and tone with a more modern and industrial flair. Those grays with green and blue undertones may bring us back the sea… those with pink and taupe undertones have a much warmer effect. One cannot refer to this color as simply gray, as it is so much more than that!
Gray is the little black dress for your home. It’s the new must have essential color that’s modern and edgy yet timeless and classic. It’s the perfect chameleon as it suits just about every room, every mood and every setting.
There’s something for everyone
You can hide behind it or you can stand in front of it and let it shine. In color psychology, gray is the color that represents peace and balance. It is calm and safe. It is practical, simple and reliable. It’s the classic. It is the perfect neutral. Why then have we not seen more of this fabulous color, a perfect blend of black and white, that somewhere in the middle color, until very recently?
In conclusion, with all shades from nearly white to nearly black, there’s a shade of grey certain to please everyone’s palate. Whether you’re style is classic, eclectic, modern, traditional or transitional there’s a shade for you. Whether you’re a collector, a minimalist – whether you’re cautious or edgy, there’s a shade just for you. Whether you’re reserved or outgoing and gregarious, there’s a shade just for you. Whether you prefer softer, calmer neutrals or bigger, bolder colors, there’s a shade of gray just for you. Read more: http://freshome.com
Creations of Gardens and Re-style
Grey is the color of clouds, but even clouds have silver linings Grey is calm and soothing and, despite being equated with rainy, cloudy days, in the home gray is the opposite of dreary. Gray presents itself as the perfect backdrop to any style from classic to modern to contemporary. All furniture styles look well with grey and all sorts of colors from pinks, blues, purples, and citrus pair delightfully with this new neutral. Christian Dior said that “tones of grey, pale turquoise and pink will prevail.
Garden Maintenance Construction of Pergolas Fencing Terraces
A room that is gray can be many things to many people
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Grays really are the perfect neutral. They range the gamut from casual elegance to utmost sophistication. Lighter, softer shades have a more feminine feel while the darker, heavier shades have a stronger, more masculine effect. Pair several shades of gray together to achieve a more complex, layered effect.
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September 2015
BRABEN’S BLOG...
Hello and welcome to CanDu Computer is for the Apple iPad / Bytes. I have had to think long and hard Phone / etc. and is called about this particular article. It isn`t difficult, iMessage. For years, technical or controversial but it could border Apple has maintained the on conspiracy theory and there are enough gold standard in industry-wide encryption of those to keep us all distracted to the through its iMessage service, which has point where anyone could get away with throughout its history continued to act anything. as a thorn in the side of law enforcement So lets deal with facts! It is well know that there are places, such as RAF Menwith officials and rogue government agencies Hill who`s job it was to monitor the alike (direct quote – not opinion). The communications and locations of hostile details of how iMessage’s unique encryption forces during times of war and times of algorithm actually works are a bit too unstable peace. Now we are now one big confusing and convoluted to explain in full happy world family being told what to do by here, however if you’re interested you can our friends in Europe without the need for read through the technical descriptions on monitoring our enemies as we don´t have page 35 of the company’s own security brief any! So who are they monitoring? Well they from earlier this year. now watch all of us, You and me. But what if you’re on Android and want I have explained the many ways that the same feeling of security that iOS users Microsoft`s new, all singing, all dancing, enjoy? With the TextSecure app from free operating system (Windows 10), has OpenWhisper systems, you can encrypt so many ways in which everything you both your calls and your SMS messages type is passed to Microsoft who in turn will pass it onto any governmental organisation, from one app, without worrying about a from any `friendly` country, who asks complicated set-up process, using separate for it (supreme court order NOT needed). logins, or even removing your profile from Google, Microsoft and many others have your phone first. TextSecure’s protective protocol works been reading your emails and passing information to these authorities under the by transforming what would normally PRISM legislation (a topic in a previous travel as a normal SMS/MMS packet into article) for some years now! This then, raw data, and then running that altered allows them to choose what you can send. binary through OpenWhisper’s open These are simple facts of things that have source encryption algorithm to ensure your been going on for decades. communications are locked down as tight So where are we? We know that all our as possible. Now the interesting part here phone calls are monitored, we know that is the phrase “open source” meaning that email is being monitored and that `cloud you have access to the source code and storage` is a big sign saying “Free Private complicated mathematics involved, and you Stuff For You To Take”. How do we take can see EXACTLY how it works! back our God given right to privacy? For us normal people that don`t have or All the agencies (NSA, CIA, MI5, MI6 and a slough of others that may or may want smartphones or iWhatevers you can not exist) have problems cracking the still create emails in your native tongue, encryption that is used today. So much so, encrypt them and send them to anyone that they have been applying pressure on who has the key to unlock these messages. anyone who writes encryption software to Yes! You could be Saddam Insane, but it is build in a master key / back door, to allow more likely you are just planning a surprise them access to your private information! party and don`t want anyone stumbling on These public and free programs that we it before the day! can get over the internet are of a level of Contact me for free advice concerning your mathematical complexity, as to cause these computer, or to arrange an appointment, at agencies untold problems, hence their the address or phone number below. despiration. Here are a couple For further information or advice on of practical options computing,contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or that might be of canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk interest. The first
THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGO The Way of St. James when translated literally from the Spanish; is one of three medieval pilgrimage routes. The others run to Rome and Jerusalem. Heading to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia where the remains of St James are reputedly buried; the route follows a Roman trading path which originally went on to the port of Finisterre. Literally translated, Finis - terre means the end of the world which the Romans considered it to be. St James was beheaded in 44AD in Jerusalem and his body returned to Spain where he’d preached in the years after Jesus’s own death. According to legend the ship was hit by a storm and his body fell overboard. Later it washed up undamaged covered in scallops. Also the lines on a scallop shell congregate at a single point symbolising the different ways people take across Europe to reach his tomb. So the scallop shell represents the Camino. Legends abound about his burial; James’s disciples upon landing in Galicia asked Loba the pagan Queen of the region for permission to bury him. Instead she tricked them by sending them to a sacred mountain where a dragon lay in wait. At the sight of the disciples’ crucifixes the dragon of course exploded. The crucifixes also tamed the wild oxen the queen then sent to kill them; they put the cattle in a yoke and dragged the body to be buried in what is now Santiago de Compostela. In the 4th Century the area was used as a Roman burial ground so perhaps that’s how the legend gained traction. James lay undisturbed for 900 years until Pelagius, a hermit, saw strange lights in the forest and went
WORKING OUT WORKS OUT
I looked in the m i r r o r last week and got more of a shock than normal. I had grown; bits of me had become more substantial than I remembered, mainly those bits around the waistline, although I was doing a fine job of acquiring an extra chin or two. And there was me thinking that my trousers had all shrunk in the washing machine. No, the truth is I’d put weight on and something had to be done about it. The way I saw it I had two choices. The first step was simply to invest in bigger clothes that would hide the previously nonexistent lumpy bits. However, after some thought I decided I didn’t want to go down that route and end up dressed in a tent to hide my ever increasing girth. No, I needed to get down to some exercise! That’s when I went to the sports shop. My goodness, those places are huge, but to those of us who are complete novices when it comes to exercising, they can be a bit scary too. I found myself, accidentally, in the section selling workout machines. It struck me that any self- respecting torturer could get some pretty gruesome ideas from these places. There’s a disc “thing” that you stand on and then
twist yourself round from side to side, whilst holding on for dear life. I can think of no earthly reason why anyone would want to do that to themselves, nor can I imagine how it keeps you fit, but judging from those lithe looking people surrounding it, clearly it does something for you! It just made me feel uncomfortably inadequate. I decided to slink quietly away in search of training shoes; apparently you need a degree to buy these things. The assistant asked what I needed them for- work outs, running, fitness, zumba or perhaps just hot yoga. Had I considered lateral movement? How about biomechanics? What about my gait? I looked blank. I clearly don’t speak Reebok, or whatever language he was speaking in! I left, feeling like a fitness failure, but then I had a brainwave. Wandering round that store several times must have burned off at least half a Mars Bar. That’s the answer; do a few laps of the sports shop and wham, you’ve lost half your chocolate intake from the last hour. Well, it’s a start, and… there’s no Lycra involved!
Graham is married to Helen and has a daughter, Alice. He lives part of the year near Albox, but works in Qatar, teaching. If you wish to contact Graham regarding this article email: helenandg@yahoo.co.uk
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.eu Telephone: 636 266 641
to the local bishop, Theodemar, for advice. They returned and a star conveniently guided them to the tomb. News spread across medieval Christendom with the first records of the path being trodden coming from twelve hundred years ago. The Christian Kingdom of Asturias straddled North West Spain which was where the tomb was found; its King Alfonso was the first recorded visitor using the Milky Way to guide him at night so the tomb was named Santiago de Compostela meaning Saint James of the field of stars. The finding of the tomb, coincidentally, became political and religious dynamite; making the Kingdom of Asturias as important as Rome where the Saints Peter and Paul were buried, Ephesus where Saint John lies and Jerusalem. By the eleventh Century people were travelling across the Pyrenees to make the pilgrimage. English pilgrims came as early as 1092 and then Pope Callixtus II supposedly advertised the route with the publication of the five volume manuscript Codex Calixtinus. Modern scholars believe the Codex was published around 1135 some 10 years after the Popes death. The fifth volume entitled A Guide for the Traveller is regarded as the first ever tourist guide book. It contains a detailed description of the route, relics to visit, sanctuaries to stay at and tips how to avoid being ripped off by looky lookies. As a foreword, there’s a letter written by the Pope (from beyond the grave) describing how he spent 14 years scouring the country collecting stories of St James’s great deeds.
It’s also written in very basic Latin; another clue as to it not actually being penned by the Pope. The Codex contains 225 hand written and illuminated pages. In any case the book cemented the popularity of the Camino, The Kingdom of France where the Pope originated; gave protection to pilgrims along the way as many routes started from there. Hospitals and hospices sprang up along the route to provide accommodation for the pilgrims and incidentally provide a nice income for the owners, many of them now French. Souvenir shops sold scallop shells to be worn around the neck or tied to a walking stick. Scallop shell patches were sold and sewn onto the back of clothing. Food was provided free to travellers so identification was important and also hopefully kept the pilgrim safe from harm. The Spanish word for the Milky Way star system is Camino de Santiago as the stars were said to have been formed from the dust raised by pilgrims’ footsteps. For a beautiful and poignant modern take on the journey; seek out the film ‘The Way’ directed by Emilio Estevez and starring both him and his father Martin Sheen. More about the Camino another time!
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15
16
September 2015
PAUSE FOR THOUGHT
I’m sure we all occasionally hear criticism of some ‘Christians’ for having a sanctimonious or ‘Holier than thou’ attitude. And yes, I confess I’ve met a few in my time who fall into that category, remembering one person in particular being described as being “so Heavenlyminded that he was of no earthly use!” And sadly, there are probably some who describe me in similar vein, though I certainly hope that’s not one of my primary failings. And failing, such an attitude most certainly is, clearly indicating a complete lack of awareness of personal failure. For however hard we may try; each of us, if completely honest knows that we regularly fail to live up to our own standards, let alone those of a perfect God. So anyone who really believes themselves to be truly good, looking down in contemptuous judgement on those of us who acknowledge failure, are in my understanding, merely deluding themselves. But any of us who find ourselves irritated by such sanctimoniousness can take comfort from being in excellent company, as Jesus spoke out strongly against such attitudes in his wonderfully amusing parable of the man with half a tree in his eye, offering to remove the speck of dust from the eye of another! A quite ridiculous picture,
but often enough so sadly true as we observe and criticise the minor faults in others whilst failing to recognise the far greater faults in ourselves. And in many ways the evidence of a true Christian should be that, rather than criticise others, we should always be more conscious of our own failings than those of anyone else. But of course, although permanently conscious of our failings, it’s unhelpful to dwell on them, but rather we need to show gratitude for God’s unlimited capacity to forgive us, whilst asking for strength to help us keep closer to Him and to increase our love and forgiveness of others. A great remedy, I’d suggest for any tendency for pride or sanctimonious thinking, whilst greatly improving our relationships with others. Details of a number of English Language Churches are given in Sol Noticeboard for any who wish to Worship, but 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
JOHN LEWIS SHOWCASE THEIR INTERIOR STYLES FOR THE AUTUMN & WINTER SEASON
Discover how their interiors styles can work in any room of your home, and whether you want a quick update or a completely fresh look, John Lewis have a broad range of quality products to suit. For more details on this offer and more, visit www.soltimes.com
Set the scene for luxurious living with the Boutique Hotel look. With sumptuous fabrics and decorative details, this sophisticated style gives old-school glamour modern appeal, for an opulent and dramatic look.
Designed for the heart of the contemporary home, House by John Lewis is a collection of useful, wellmade products with a bright, modern personality. There are solutions for small spaces, practicalyet-playful designs & unexpected materials.
Relaxed Country updates a classic rural style. Traditional floral patterns come to life in soft shades, while craftsmanship & natural materials are highlighted in simple pieces that stand the test of time.
quality, craftmanship and the warmth of natural maderials, the Croft Collection instils the everyday with a timeless heritage. With a palette of harmonious neutral shades, its a relaxed look you´ll love to come home to.
With a fresh new outlook and a calm perspective, Scandi creates a refreshing aesthetic through well-considered design. Organic patterns invite the outdoors into your home, while the classic Nordic palette of cool greys is updated to this season with uplifting shades of blue and orange.
STRICTLY 2015 WEEK 1
That time of the year has finally arrived again yeah! When that coveted glitter ball trophy is once again up for grabs. Who will lift it this year? Only time and a lot of hours of practice will tell. This week even though the judges marked the performances, there is to be no public vote until next week when the celebrities have had the chance to show their skills over the two disciplines Ballroom and Latin (and boy do some of them need it!). Opening this years Friday show was 39 year old Eastenders actress Kellie Bright partnered by Kevin and a Tango. What a shocker of a piece of music was used too - ugh what is the matter with the BBC? Kellie has had some dance training and she already has core strength and some frame stability so should be safe for a few weeks. The judges awarded her 27 and I gave her 7. Next to dance was 26 year old middleweight boxer Anthony Agogo with one of the new professionals Oti Mabuse and their Jive. I was slightly disappointed in his performance as I expected a boxer to be a bit more nimble on his feet. I found his performance a little stiff and very patchy in quality. That said he has had a dislocated shoulder from boxing and had only danced for 3 weeks without his arm in a sling so I suppose under the circumstances it was a good performance. I gave him 5 and the judges a total of 21. Next out was 30 year old Actress Helen George with Aljaz and a Waltz. Helen trained as a ballet dancer as a youngster and boy could you tell. OK she will need to learn to get her feet parallel for the Ballroom but should be great for the Latin. Even though there was a bit of gapping Helen showed beautiful softness and elegance to a beautiful piece of Waltz music. I awarded her 8 and the judges 29 so obviously with scores this high in week 1 one to watch. And from one of the best to the other end of the spectrum Carol Kirkwood and Pasha and a Cha Cha Cha. Oh dear Pasha, you have always done well in this competition but you will certainly have your work cut out with this partner. A total beginner who showed a stompy, ploddy dance with no hip or leg action - ouch! Let’s hope she is more suited to the Ballroom dances. I gave her 2 and she gained a total of 16 from the judges and bottom score on the leader board. 53 year old Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell together with his partner Kristina then performed a Waltz. For a beginner even though he was a bit flat footed and stuck his bottom out, he did manage a soft action with good movement across the
Casual & comfortable,
Uniting pieces that honour
floor. Over the next few weeks let’s hope that his core and frame will improve with more work. He was given a total of 24 from the judges and 5 from myself. TV presenter Anita Rani 37 and another new hunky professional Gleb Savchenko were next with a Cha Cha Cha. Even though there is nothing documented, Anita looked as if she has had some training somewhere as there was some leg and hip action apparent in her performance something which is extremely difficult to do without quite a bit of training. I have a feeling she is going to do well and gave her a 6 with the judges 27. Saturdays show opened with pop group Wanted member Jay McGuiness 25 along with Aliona dancing a Cha Cha Cha. Jay also had dance training as a youngster and once he conquers his nerves will be really good. He already has great feet and leg action, his hips were a bit tight but down to nerves I think. Once he loosens up he is going to be a strong contender as his frame and core are already there. I awarded him 6 and the judges 27. 39 year old sports presenter Kirsty Gallacher (daughter of golfer Bernard) and Brendan were next out for their Waltz. Kirsty suffered really badly with nerves and fell apart a little. She did a fair bit of staggering in and out of poses but again nerves affect balance and it looked a bit as if Brendan was dragging her around the floor. She could be reasonable if she can control the nerves. I gave her 3 and the judges 20. 50 year old broadcaster Jeremy Vine and partner Karen performed a Cha Cha Cha next. He gave it his best shot including his ‘daddy dancing’ and I have to say that Karen will really have her work cut out. Let’s hope that his ballroom will look better than the Latin. With little or no control of his extremeties, I gave him a 2 and the judges 19. Corries Georgia May Foote 24 and our third new Italian Professional Giovanni Pernice then danced a Jive. A piece of music that went at a real ‘lick’. Georgia has talent but the music was just a little too fast for her and as a result the quality of her
Globe-trotting
Fusion combines a rich tapestry of materials, colours, patterns & textures. Intense blues, spicey shades and accents of saffron yellow create interest, while hints of moroccan tiling & Asian fretwork add depth.
dancing suffered a little and was a bit stiff. However, she was coping with quite complex choreography for week 1 and I’m sure will be a strong contender as the weeks progress. I awarded her 6 and the judges a total of 27. The old man of the competition 58 year old chef Ainsley Harriet along with Natalie danced a Tango. Oh! I have never laughed so much for a long time. This was entertainment plus! Posture - oops! shoulders up to his ears. Arms moving around almost as if he was shaking a cocktail but I really enjoyed this performance and am looking forward to watching him progress. I gave him 5 and the judges 20. Presenter Katie Derham 45 and Anton were next up for their Jive. Katie has got superb feet and legs and I think will be really good at the Ballroom. She was a bit stiff in the upper body but good for week 1. Only problem for her Latin is Anton who’s Latin really isn’t very good - he is a ballroom boy but we will see in the coming weeks. 400 meter runner Iwan Thomas 41 and Ola came out then for a Tango. Oh dear! what can we say about Iwan? What was right? Stompy, ploddy, no frame and his bottom stuck out. A marathon is in view if Ola is to tame this beast but personally I don’t hold out much hope. I gave him a 2 and the judges second bottom on 17. The penultimate couple were 34 year old singer and presenter Jamelia with Tristan and a Waltz. She had a picture of elegance in her mind for Waltz but it was anything but. She had no core lift, untidy feet and a total lack of control. For an ex pop singer very disappointing perhaps Latin will be her thing? I awarded her 5 with 21 from the judges. Talk about saving the best til last? 42 year old heartthrob Peter Andre and Janette closed the show with a Cha Cha Cha. I felt that Janette didn’t really give him enough Cha Cha choreography to see the quality of the dance as there was a lot of stop start posing involved. That said what he did dance was extremely good and I gave him a 7 with the judges top slot with 30. I can’t wait to see the other side of these dancers in next weeks show to be able to better gauge who I think could be serious contenders this year. Out in front for me at the moment are Peter Andre and Helen George but after next week will it still be the same? You’d better tune in to see for yourself. In the meantime if you want to join in with the ‘strictly’ gossip come and join one of our classes where you will always receive a warm welcome.In the meantime Keep Dancing! By Lyn Aspden of ‘Strictly Dance’ Class Info 635 584 431
17
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COSTA BLANCA TOP CHOICE FOR SPANISH PROPERTY Your one stop property maintenance shop
As British property investors resume their love affair with Spain, it’s the Costa Blanca which is proving to be top choice, accounting for 27% of Spanish mortgage enquiries received at Conti over the last three years. And Spain continues to be top of the list for British buyers in general, accounting for just under half (45%) of enquiries received by the company in the second quarter of 2015. The Costa Blanca is one of Europe’s most heavily visited areas, extending 200 kilometres along the Mediterranean coast with a resort to suit every taste. And it’s Alicante which has attracted the most attention from clients financing their purchases through Conti, with more than two thirds (69%) of Costa Blanca buyers choosing this location. Hot on its heels, however, is the Costa del Sol with a 23% share of purchases,
thanks to miles of magnificent beaches, championship golf courses and fantastic amenities which attract sun worshippers and sports enthusiasts to its leisurely lifestyle. The sun-drenched town of Marbella is the first choice destination. The Balearic Islands are next on the list, accounting for 18% of property purchases, with Ibiza standing out as the firm favourite. Traditionally known for its lively nightlife scene, it’s also home to quiet villages and peaceful sandy beaches. And the Canary Islands, with a 15% share, are also increasing in popularity, particularly Lanzarote which lies on the same line of latitude as parts of Florida and Mexico, making it an ideal all-year-round destination. http://www.mortgageintroducer.com/
We Urgently Require Properties for Rental and For Sale in Quesada area Ref: PM618 Townhouse for sale in Quesada 99,000€ This Beautiful 2 bed/2 bath Dona Pepa Townhouse in a fantastic location of Ciudad Quesada is one of the best properties of this kind we have listed. It is presented in show house condition and being sold at a reduced Bargain price.
Avda. de los Nationes 1/C, No. 10 Ciudad Quesada, 03170 Rojales, Alicante www.pmpropertiesspain.com
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September 2015
INTRODUCTION TO ANDALUCIA
Spain's region of Andalucia is composed of eight provinces, stretching from the south-east to the southwest of the country, each one named for its capital city: Cadiz, Cordoba, Jaen, Huelva, Almeria, Malaga, Granada and Seville. Once Spain´s poorest region, Andalucia - and specifically the provinces of Malaga, Granada and Seville - is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, thanks to its sandy beaches, beautiful countryside, spectacular mountain ranges, fabulous monuments and high-spirited people who live life to the full and are well known for their exuberance, warmth and hospitality. Andalucia is also home of flamenco and bullfighting, which can be best enjoyed at the region´s countless ferias and romerias. But perhaps the most unique feature of this enchanting region are the remnants of its Moorish past. The Moors were a mixture of Berbers and Arabs who crossed into Spain from North Africa by the Straits of Gibraltar and occupied the peninsula - which they called al Andalus for more than seven centuries, dating from 710 when they first landed in Tarifa. Within a mere four years they had virtually conquered the entire country, although they soon withdrew to the southern part of the peninsula, where they established, in the towns of Cordoba, Seville and Granada, one of the most sophisticated civilisations of the Middle Ages. Each of these Andalucian capitals boasts spectacular remains of their monuments, the most unforgettable of which is, undoubtedly, Granada's Alhambra palace. SOME BASIC FACTS ABOUT SPAIN´S REGION OF ANDALUCIA Andalucia has 500 miles of coastline and of which 70% are sandy beaches. The Mediterranean seaboard is graced by the Costa de Almeria, Costa Tropical and the glamorous, cosmopolitan Costa del Sol, while the Costa de la Luz lies along the Atlantic shore to the west of Gibraltar. As well as Andalucia´s fascinating cities and dazzling shores, the region is sprinkled with tiny unspoiled villages and whitewashed towns - the famous pueblos blancos - which tourists often overlook, even though they are of easy access, such as Casares, Gaucin and Frigilana. Andalucia, then, is a region of startling contrasts and great charm. Yet, this mysterious corner of Europe is easy to reach, with hundreds of charter flights arriving each week at Malaga´s Pablo Picasso International Airport, which lies midway between Malaga, the main city of the coast, and Torremolinos, the region´s most legendary resort. http://www.andalucia.com/
ANDALUCÍA HOLIDAY RENTALS TOP CHOICE FOR SPANIARDS
According to a study carried out by online holiday rentals portal, HomeAway, on which of Spain’s regions are the most popular choices for Spaniards to spend their summer holidays, the top destinations are Andalucía, Valencia, the Balearic Islands, Catalonia and the Canary Islands, which together accounted for 80% of the enquiries registered on their website. With 33% of all the enquiries received via the portal, the region of Andalucía was the top destination for holiday rentals in Spain during the summer 2015. All of the region’s provinces registered positive growth rates in demand, with the greatest being registered for Jaén, Sevilla and Cordoba, with increases of 92%, 55% and 46%, respectively. Following these provinces were Almeria, Huelva, Cádiz, Granada and Málaga (with growth rates of 33%, 28%, 23%, 15% and 7%, respectively). Cadiz-Costa de la Luz is the province which had the greatest level of national demand for holiday homes (43% of the region’s total), followed by Malaga-Costa del Sol (25%) and AlmeríaCosta de Almería (20%). Within the region of Valencia, the second most popular region on a national level for holiday rentals, with 17% of the total number of enquiries, Valencia province experienced the biggest growth in demand (35%), although the provinces of Alicante (Costa Blanca) and Castellón (Costa del Azahar) still accounted for the majority of requests for holiday homes this summer, with 85% of the enquiries between the two. The Balearic Islands was the third region with the greatest national demand for holiday rentals, accounting for 15% of all enquiries. Of the four islands, Mallorca experienced the greatest demand for holiday homes, with 43% of the requests, despite registering a slightly negative growth rate compared
VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL
to the summer of 2014. Ibiza accounted for 26% of the domestic demand, and Menorca, 21%. Formentera accounted for 11% of the national demand for holiday homes in the Balearic Islands this summer, and registered the biggest growth of all the islands compared with 2014 (37%). Catalonia, the fourth region most in demand by Spaniards this summer, accounted for 12% of all enquiries. The province of Lerida registered the highest positive growth rate in demand (87%), while Girona (Costa Brava) and Tarragona (Costa Dorada) concentrated between the two 74% of the domestic demand for holiday rentals in the region, followed by Barcelona, which experienced a 32% increase in demand over 2014, and accounted for 23% of the enquiries registered this summer. In the Canary Islands, with 5% of the registered national demand, Tenerife was the island which received the largest number of enquiries (33%), followed by Fuerteventura (30%) and Lanzarote (19%). The rest of the Islands (Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro) together accounted for the remaining 18% of the enquiries. The study also highlighted the region of Asturias, which climbed the ranking after experiencing the largest increase in demand (98%), with the Costa Verde being the area that registered 95% of their holiday rental enquiries this summer. El Mundo reported that, according to the portal’s data, the average length of stay in inland areas is 4 days, while the average on the coast is 7 days, the same as the average stay when travelling to international destinations. kyero.com
DETATCHED CORTIJO REDUCED
BARGAIN
€125,000
2 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM, PENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN VERA PLAYA ALL MOD CONS, BALCONY & ROOF TERRACE OFFERING FANTASTIC VIEWS
CALL 663 977 230 EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com Vera Playa Apartment
20 mins from Mojacar, 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas, kitchen & diningroom as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool. Mountain views.
649 186 107
or email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com
19
www.soltimes.com
SOL Y MAR SERON-DETACHED VILLA SOL516 - OFFERS OVER 170,000€
CONTACT US NOW ON
950 064 584 609 199 394
Office : Avenida 28 de Febrero, 44, Albox
Email: info@solymarspain.com
Many more properties on our website: www.solymarspain.com ALBOX-COUNTRY HOUSE SOL178 - 62,500€ NEW LISTING
ALBOX - VILLA SM019 - 139,995€
Beautiful 4 bed 2 bath country villa finished to the highest standard with 2.5 Hectares of land, swimming pool & Jacuzzi.
A stunning villa of very high standard.The villa has an immaculate garden with lovely pool area. Consisting of 3 bedrooms, 1 opening onto patio area. Call today to view!
ORIA- VILLA SOL190- 119,000€ NEW LISTING
VILLA IN CERRO GORDO SM016 - 159,950€
3 Bed 2 Bath detached with ensuite, swimming pool and 2500m2 of land. Only a few mins from Oria village.
Detached modern bungalow featuring 3 bedrooms, games room & 2 bathrooms, 1 en-suite. Also features central heating throughout and swimming pool.
Former B&B, 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, attached villa with large garden. Only 10 minutes drive to Albox.
NEAR ALBOX - VILLA SM021 - 169,000€
SIERRO - VILLAGE HOUSE SOL074 - 120,000€
ALMAZORA - VILLA SM020 - 200,000€
Detached 4 bed 2 bath country villa on 2400m2 of land , close to albox , appointed to a high standard
Stunning attached village house, reformed to high standard. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Stunning views from terrace.
Charming & quirky villa for sale in the heart of the village. Features 2 seperate living quaters, 2 bedrooms in each & a pretty garden with pool.This is a must see property!
SIERRO - 3 STOREY VILLA SOL073 - 59,950€ NEW LISTING
OLULA DEL RIO - SPANISH STYLE VILLA SM018 - 130,000€ NEW LISTING
ARBOLEAS - MILL HOUSE SM015 - 165,000€
3 storey attached villa featuring 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and a roof terrace. Only 5km from Purchena.
Lovely Spanish Villa, on 1194M2 of land. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Only ten minutes from town.
Old millhouse tastefully renovated featuring two separate houses one 4 bed and one 2 bed Great views over rambla and surrounding countryside.
WE URGENTLY REQUIRE PROPERTIES BETWEEN ALBOX & THE COAST FOR OUR GROWING SALES PORTFOLIO. ALMOST ALL OUR RENTAL PROPERTIES ARE OCCUPIED AND WE HAVE MORE CLIENTES TO SATISFY! CALL US 950 064 584 LA ALFOQUIA PARTOLOA ALMANZORA CORTIJO TOWNHOUSE DETACHED VILLA MAR989 - 450€ PCM RSM003 - 450€ PCM MAR801 - 450€ PCM
Clients waiting for various types of rental properties. PLEASE CALL
Traditional detached cortijo with own pool .Set in idyllic setting, secluded but close to amenities. 3000m2 land.
4 bedroom modern townhouse, close to all amenities, tastefully decorated throughout.
Available from October. 3 bed 2 bath, fully fenced detached villa with swimming pool.
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September 2015
Focusing on smaller area to give our clients a better service.
Voss Homes would like to thank our property owners and buyers for their loyalty and support.
PROPERTY OF THE WEEK - €79,000
VH694 - VILLA JENE REDUCED - Furnished country / village house with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and garage on a 500m2 plot. Walking distance to a cafe bar & restaurant and just 4 mins drive to La Alfoquia 10 mins drive to Huercal-Overa town, 25 mins drive to the coast.
For more information and to arrange a viewing contact us asap.
Please call 0034 950 616 827 / 0034 678 002 006 / 0034 667 891 741 or email: info@vosshomesspain.com
www.vosshomesspain.com
Office: 155a Carrerera Estacion, Huecal-Overa. 1km off the A7 motorway at exit 553. 100metres from Lidl.
www.immo-carlos.com Email: info@immo-carlos.com Address: La Plaza Nueva, No 10, Albox (Opposite the Donkey Statue)
Properties Urgently needed in Arboleas/Albox area for our next exhibition in Belgium
115.000€
159,000€
Cerro Gordo, Nice villa with 3 bed, 2 bath and a jacuzzi.
Arboleas, beautiful villa with 3 bed, 2 bath & a private pool!!
136,000€
175,000€
Oria, Beautiful villa with 2 bed, 2 bath, pool & a great garden!! Arboleas, Stunning villa with 3 bed, 2 bath, garage, pool & a big plot.
149,950€
180,000€
Zurgena, Fantastic villa with 3 bed, 2 bath & pool. Ideal holiday home. Limaria, nearly new villa with 3 bed, 2 bath & guest house.
Office: 950 102 191 • Carlos: 648 505 938 • Gavin: 671 293 942
www.soltimes.com
LONDON PROPERTY BOOM FORCES 1ST TIME BUYERS TO BREAKING POINT
RESALE HOME PRICES RISE BY 3.7% The recovery of the Spanish housing market has also
been confirmed in the latest report on the used housing market prepared by the Tecnocasa Group in collaboration with the Pompeu Fabra University. According to their data from cities with the most representative samples, second hand housing prices have risen by 3.73% during the first half of 2015, which is a significant percentage given that currently 80% of the home sales transactions being carried out correspond to the second hand sector. This increase is much higher than that experienced in the same period of 2014 (+1.12%), which ended the run of yearon-year declines stretching from 2010. Following this new data, the average cost per square metre of second hand housing in Spain stands at 1,503 euros, which represents a decline of 56.9% from the peak levels of late 2006-early 2007, when this figure stood at over 3,500 euros. According to Tecnocasa’s report, “the price per square metre during the last year has grown moderately. Everything indicates that the adjustment in the price of housing has come to an end and that a phase is now beginning in which the performance of the price of housing will be slightly positive”. Looking at individual cities, El Mundo reported that only Seville recorded a decline in second hand housing prices, of 1.8%, falling from 1,102 euros per square metre to 1,082 euros. The greatest increase was registered in Barcelona (+8.2%), followed by Madrid (+2.7%), Zaragoza (+2%), Málaga (+0.64%) Hospitalet (+0.47%) and Valencia (+0.42%). In absolute terms, Barcelona registered the most expensive value per square metre, at 2,157 euros, ahead of Madrid (1,646 euros), Hospitalet (1,282), Seville (1,082), Zaragoza (1,022), Málaga (953) and Valencia (718) kyero.com
London's house prices are running away from the rest of the UK, and it seems first-time buyers have had enough. Demand in other cities is quietly ticking up Flee the flying house prices! Property hunters will get the best deal for 20 years by quitting London for the regions, the Hometrack cities house price index has revealed. For the price of just one average house in London, you can buy four houses in Glasgow, three in Manchester and two in Bristol. And those who do manage to rustle up the cash for the average £437,700 house in the capital risk buying into an overpriced market. Hometrack’s director of research, Richard Donnell, predicted businesses and families will flee the high property prices and regroup in the regions. nHe said: “The gap between house prices in London and other major regional cities is at its widest level for 20 years. “This highlights a seemingly overvalued London
COMPLETE HOLIDAY HOLIDAY CARE CARE COMPLETE MOJACAR PLAYA
RENTALS - SALES -MANAGEMENT - MAINTENANCE
WE URGENTLY NEED MORE PROPERTIES FOR SALE & RENTAL FOR WAITING CLIENTS
Ref. FM/RW – Lovely 2 bedroom/1 bath, furnished duplex, solarium, 3 pools, a/c, near shops, bars and beach (400m). VERA PLAYA REDUCED €79,950
Ref: AL/SR - Lovely 3 bed, 2 bath, apartment, sea views, pool, air con., 300 m to Mojacar Playa beach & promenade.
Ref: PB/RH -Fantastic 4 beds triplex, sea views, private gardens, 4/5 pools/gardens next to beach, solarium, private parking, basement, a/c, furn VERAPLAYA €179,950
Ref: GV/EB Perfectly located, furn, 1 bed 1st floor apart, a/c, pool, UKTV, parking, 50 metres from beach
NEW MOJACAR PLAYA €99,950 MOJACAR REDUCED €69,950 Paseo del Mediterraneo 19, Mojacar Playa, Almeria (near the Hotel Best Indalo) Tel: 950 478 612 / 610 808 631
info@almeriaholidays.com
www.almeriaholidays.com
21
market, on a price to earnings basis, and the prospect of further price growth to come in the large regional UK cities.” The discount you get in choosing to buy outside the capital varies from city to city. Liverpool and Glasgow offer some of the best deals for shunning the metropolis - you get 75% off the London price. Manchester gives you a 68% discount and Leeds a 67% discount. Bristol doesn’t give you such a good deal, but it’s still 47% cheaper. While low house prices make it easier to get on the housing ladder, most homeowners hope to sell their house at a bit of a profit - that way you can make the second step to a bigger home. If you want to buy a house in an area where prices are reasonable and yet you have a good chance of selling it on at a profit, we would choose… Glasgow. Not only does this city come at one of the biggest discounts to London, it’s still a lot cheaper than it was at the end of the last peak in house prices, in 2007. But there’s good news ahead - house prices are chugging ahead at 5.3% a year. So you’ve got a fair chance of making some cash when you decide to move on. If you’re not quite ready to embrace the deepfried lifestyle, Manchester is a good second bet. Like Glasgow, it’s got a healthy discount to London. And house prices are ticking up at 6.1% a year, although they are nearly back to their 2007 levels. http://www.mirror.co.uk/
www.espanarural.com Avenida 28 de Febrero 34, Albox 04800- Almeria. We are now on the A334 road coming into Albox on the left hand side between the Grand Sport Shop and the Heaven Cafe/Bar. ESP2549
Cortijo Estacion
125,000€
A country house in the Almanzora area • Detached fully renovated traditional property • Walking distance to the Beautiful Village • 2 large double bedrooms, 1 large bathroom. • 2 large conservatories, large room on 2nd floor • Heating, large private gardens front and back • Mains connected including internet.
ESP2536
Cortijo Abispa
68,000€
A country house in the Huercal Overa area • Large traditional property in a beautiful location • Flat and useful land around the house of 9,600m2 • With a total of 12 rooms needing renovation • Garage, sun terrace with beautiful views. • Elec connected, water by spring, internet can be connected
ESP2546
Villa Nueces
150,000€
A villa in the Albox area • Detached large Beautiful Villa in nice location • 3 double bedrooms and 2 bathrooms • large garden walled gated of 2,500m2 • 10x5 pool, heating, air conditioning units • Stunning views and mains connected.
ESP2338
Casa Rustica
36,000€
A town house in the Tijola area • Charming spacious traditional Village house • Full of character has on two floors 8 rooms • This is a 3/4 bed property habitable • Private garden with views and sun terrace • Mains connected, internet can be connected
Mon-Fri 10-3pm : Tel Office 950102505 Sat (By appointment only) Mobile: 654359607
mail: info@espanarural.com web: www.espanarural.com
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September 2015
PROPERTY GROUP
Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria
Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563
www.veritashomes.co.uk info@veritashomes.co.uk
PALOMARES
€80,000
Fantastic 3 bed / 2 bath Townhouse with big garage on basement. Walking distance to all amenities. Terraces & solarium. Ref. 1629
PALOMARES
Opening hours. Monday to Friday 10.00 am to 6.00pm Saturday 10.00 am to 1.30pm
DUE TO INCREASE IN SALES WE URGENTLY NEED PROPERTIES IN MOJÁCAR, GARRUCHA, VERA AND TURRE. FREE VALUATION. NO FEES FOR ADVERTISING.
€100,000 MOJACAR PLAYA
€110,000 NR MACENAS
3 bed / 1 bath southeast facing Apartment with sea views and walking distance to beach, promenade and amenities. Ref.1562
Charming reformed semi-detached House with garage and terrace with nice views. Plot 1,589 m². Few minutes drive to beach. Ref.1116
MARINA DE LA TORRE €149,950
MOJÁCAR PLAYA
MOJACAR PLAYA
3 bed / 2 bath large Apartment with terrace and underground parking place. Small community set in front of the beach. Ref. 1606
2 bed / 2 bath Apartment with large terrace with sea views, store room and underground parking place near promenade and amenities. Ref. 1556
€129,950
3 bed / 1 bath ground floor Apartment with terrace of 35 m², store room and parking place. Nice community near promenade Ref. 1647
€188,000 MOJACAR PLAYA
Reduced! 3 bed / 2 bath detached Villa near beach, amenities & promenade. Air con & fire place. Car port . Partial sea views. Ref.1560
€99,000
2 bed / 2 bath Apartment with underground parking place and store room. Heated and outdoor pools. Furnished. Ref.1192
€129,950 MOJACAR PLAYA
2 bed / 2 bath PenthouseApartment with roof solarium, terrace, underground parking and store room. Nice complex. Ref.1035
€155,000
MOJACAR PLAYA
€200,000
3 bed / 2 bath light-filled and spacious Townhouse with underground garage within 2 min walk to beach. Sea views. Air con Ref.1511
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• 4 bed/4 bath ext Neptuno Delux • Amazing private pool area. • Furnished to high spec. • Free wifi & games station etc CAMPOSOL D LONG TERM LET €475 +BILLS PCM
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•4 bed/2 bath semi detached finca. •6m x 5m private pool. •Fully fenced. •Spanish campo living.
23
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• 3 bed/3 bath Neptuno Delux Villa • Furnished to high standard. • Log fire plus much more. • Close to Camposol Club De Golf LOS AGUEROS/TALLANTE LONG TERM LET €650 + BILLS PCM
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• Wonderful secluded finca • 3 beds/2 bathroom main area • 2 bed/ 1 bathroom attached annex • Pool plus much more. MAZARRON COUNTRY CLUB LONG TERM LET €550 + BILLS PCM
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CAMPOSOL LOWER C LONG TERM RENT €275 + BILLS PCM
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•2 Bedroom/1 Bathroom Monsora quad Villa •Covered Rear Terrace •Well Furnished •Close to Camposol Club de Golf CAMPOSOL D LONG TERM LET €650 + BILLS PCM
Ref No: 0127
•3 bed/2 bath Cibeles style villa. •Large 650sqm plot. •10m x 5m private pool. •Can be let unfurnished. CAMPOSOL D LONG TERM LET €650 + BILLS PCM
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•3 bed/3 bath Neptuno Delux Villa. •Private pool with large sun terrace. •Furnished to high standard. •Large storage area. CAMPOSOL D HOLIDAY LETS FROM €400 PW
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24
September 2015
CATALAN ELECTION CONCERN SENDS SPANISH STOCKS INTO BEAR MARKET
FOR BUSINESS
Spain’s economy is forecast to grow faster than almost all other euro-area countries. That’s not helping its companies. Concern that Sunday’s Catalonia election may lead to the region breaking apart from the rest of the country has helped drag the benchmark IBEX 35 Index down 9.4 percent this month, the most among all westernEuropean markets. The gauge closed on Thursday 22 percent below the five-year high reached in April. Investors who bought Spanish stocks hoping to reap the benefits of a recovering domestic economy are now faced with the most volatile market since 2012. If proindependence parties succeed, the nation will lose its biggest regional economy, putting growth estimates at risk. “Any disturbance from nationalism will make investors refrain from entering the market,’’ said Guillermo Hernandez Sampere, who helps manage about 150 million euros ($168 million) as head of trading at MPPM EK in Eppstein, Germany. “Catalonia is a very strong region in Spain, and if they separate, it would be a disaster for the rest of the country.’’ A poll by newspaper El Mundo published Monday showed separatists securing a majority of seats with the help of anti-capitalist party CUP, but failing to win a majority of the votes. With Catalonia contributing to about a fifth of Spain’s economic output, a breakup would threaten a recovery in the nation, which is forecast to grow more than 2.2 percent each year through 2017. Twice as Much The IBEX 35 closed yesterday at its lowest level since December 2013, with a valuation of 13.9 times estimated profits, lower than the 14.6 multiple for the Stoxx Europe 600 Index. Banco de Sabadell SA, one the largest companies based in Catalonia, has plunged 16 percent this month, almost twice as much as the Spanish gauge. Chances of Catalonia becoming a separate state are
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so slim that it shouldn’t affect portfolios of long-term investors, says Banca March strategist Alejandro Vidal. “When you look at Spanish stocks’ performance with a two- to three-year horizon, Catalonia elections will have no effect,” said Vidal, whose firm oversees 12.6 billion euros. “We haven’t made any changes to our allocations.” Nervousness surrounding the vote also comes on top of increasing worries that emerging economies are slowing. Banco Santander SA and Telefonica SA, among Spain’s biggest companies, rely on Latin America for nearly half of their revenue. That’s all added to Spanish stock volatility. A measure of price swings for the past 30 days has jumped 15 percent this month, more than the 10 percent increase for the Stoxx 600. “A movement toward independence would come with a lot of volatility,’’ said James McCann, an economist at Standard Life Investments Ltd. in Edinburgh. “Long term, it would be a structural problem in terms of Spain losing an important part of its economy. Short term, it creates a lot of noise and friction around that process, so it’s a concern for markets.’’ http://www.bloomberg.com/ SAN MIGUEL de SALINAS
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LA FERIA DEL CORSÉ
Soon it would be the village’s annual feria. The Celebration remembers the exploits of El Raro, The Weird One. A hero of the Spanish War of Independence and the most famous son of the pueblo. It was to be La Feria del Corsé. In the summer of 1810 Guerrilla bands proliferated in Andalucía. This was in direct response to the French invasion of Southern Spain earlier in the year. Rogelio Jiminez or El Raro, had according to legend attacked a French column. Although heavily outnumbered they had driven off the soldiers killing and capturing many. Among the captives was none other than Joseph Napoleon Bonaparte himself, brother of Napoleon emperor of France. His favourite mistress, Fifi was also taken. Showing great humanity the guerillas allowed the French prisoners their freedom, first stripping them and making them walk naked back to the French lines. Fifi’s corset was taken back as a trophy. A fine silk whalebone garment inscribed in golden thread, ‘For my big French Boney’. There is little historical evidence to back up this claim only a footnote in the histories of the partisan Vincente Moreno Romero. An attack on a French baggage convoy, although described in some detail only hints at El Raro’s presence. A disorganised rabble seen in the distance plundering the French regimental baggage ties in well with a description of our hero. Having played no part in the attack they looted bags and trunks especially those
VIEWPOINT
containing female clothing of the officer’s wives. The narrative suggests that several members of the rabble dressed in this clothing while dancing around a camp fire. A great deal of giggling accompanied these antics which lasted three days and nights. Whatever the truth the small village museum had in one of its glass cabinets a corset, gold laced and inscribed. It was this artefact that was to be the focal point of the day. The day’s events followed the same pattern every year. The teenagers amongst Los Gente del Cerro would man the castle tower with the corset in their possession. They would be the French, speaking in exaggerated accents and basically behaving like ‘bad guys’. The youngsters of los Recién Llegados would elect a leader to act the part of El Raro and attack the tower. A brief water fight then ensues in which both sides try to soak the whole population of the village. The precious corset then returns in procession to the museum where it will reside until its next annual outing. A firework display follows, with liberal quantities of drink and food available from trestle tables erected in the plaza.
BUY YOUR OWN
On our day out with the Almanzora Group of Friends we had patted the goats, sampled the honey, stared at the silent and stationary machinery in the Almazara – you don’t press olives in September – and were headed into Lubrin to marvel at the Museum. We arrived in the town and our guide, a lovely young lady whose name I have completely forgotten, sparked the interest of the party, particular the male members, by saying that we had an extra unscheduled treat laid on – Dancing Girls. Pete was still muttering Dancing Girls under his breath as we peeled ourselves off our seats in the heat of the midday sun. ‘I think I’ll leave my bag behind, it’s too hot to be carrying a bag.’ I said. ‘But then you won’t have any money with you to buy things.’ Pete pointed out. ‘I don’t want to buy anything.’ Well, I might.’ This was such a break from the norm that I stopped in my tracks. ‘What do you want to buy?’ I queried incredulously. ‘I might want to buy a Dancing Girl.’ I gave him a stare in which caustic was mixed with poor deluded soul. ‘I’m not buying you a Dancing Girl. If you want a Dancing Girl you’ll have to buy your own.’ By now we had reached the pavement, and our interpreter, Cathy. ‘She won’t buy me a Dancing Girl.’ Pete bleated pathetically. ‘I told him, I’m not buying him a
25
By Jos Biggs
josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk Dancing Girl. If he wants to buy a Dancing Girl, he’ll have to buy her himself.’ I stated emphatically. Cathy, ever practical, and whose middle name is probably Tactful, viewed the domestic difference of intent in front of her. ‘If you buy a Dancing Girl, where would you keep her?’ She asked Pete gently. He paused for no more than a beat. ‘I couldn’t possibly tell you, not with my wife standing right beside me.’ And there the incident rested. For the record, the Dancing Girls, all four of them beautiful and lissom young ladies in crimson flamenco-style dresses, danced – once they had persuaded the PA system to work, – with grace, feeling and expression. It was a lovely way for us over-heated coach passengers to pass an hour on a sweltering afternoon. And, as far as I can tell, the Biggs household still consists of two humans, two cats and one dog – and no Dancing Girl!
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September 2015
UK Motorhomes Wanted
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email: carlskitt@live.com SOL PICTURE QUIZ!
2
WORDSEARCH LAS VEGAS
1. Along which river and its tributaries do the German vineyards lie?.................
3
ANSWERS
SOLTIMES WINE QUIZ
1
IDENTIFY THESE FAMOUS FACES
1. Halle Berry 2. Sir Bobby Robson 3. Andre Agassi 4. Margaret Thatcher
ON THIS DAY 2ND OCTOBER
1835 – The Texas Revolution begins with the Battle of Gonzales: Mexican soldiers attempt to disarm the people of Gonzales, Texas, but encounter stiff resistance from a hastily assembled militia. 1925 – John Logie Baird performs the first test of a working television system. 1958 – Guinea declares its independence from France. 1979 – Pope John Paul II denounces all forms of concentration camps and torture while speaking at the U.N. in New York City. 1997 – Amsterdam Treaty on European Union is signed.
FIND AND CIRCLE ALL OF THE WORDS THAT ARE HIDDEN IN THE GRID. THE REMAINING 24 LETTERS SPELL SOMETHING YOU MIGHT SEE IN LAS VEGAS.
2. Along which river is most of France’s
4
SOLTIMES RUGBY QUIZ
1. Where are you if you are at ‘Billy Williams’ cabbage patch’?................................ 2. Where was the first Rugby Union World Cup held?.
Sauvignon Blanc cultivated?..................
3. Which country did Hugo Porta play for?.....................
3. Claret wine is produced in the region surrounding which French city?..............
4. Which England cricket captain was capped for England at rugby?................
4. How are fizzy wines, other than champagnes, described?........................
5. Which Irish doctor was capped at Rugby Union and soccer?................................
5. How many normal size wine bottles would you have in a Methuselah?...........
6. Which Irish winger was described by Bill McLaren as ‘an electric eel’?..............
6. In which area of Italy is Chianti Classico produced?................................ 7. In which country is Rioja produced?....
7. Which League club is nicknamed ‘The Chemics’?..
8. In which country is the Marlborough
8. Which League club is nicknamed ‘The Wires’?.......
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
6. Tuscany 7. Spain 8. New Zealand 9. Australia 10. South Africa CROSSWORD
1. Rhine 2. Loire 3. Bordeaux 4. Sparkling 5. Eight
SOLUTIONS
WORDSEARCH ANSWER
9. Which member of the royal family played in a rugby international?............ 10. Which Moroccan was sent off in his first international for France in 1990?..................................
ANSWERS
SQUIGGLE SUDOKU
ANSWERS
STANDARD SUDOKU
area of Stellenbosch?.............................
EASY SUDOKU
10. In which country is the wine-making
ELVIS PRESLEY IMPERSONATOR
Barossa Valley?......................................
SHOPPING SHOPS SHOWS SINGERS SOUVENIRS SPRING MOUNTAINS SUNNY TOURISTS TOURS TRIBUTE ACTS VACATION WARM WEDDING CHAPELS
HOTELS IMPERSONATORS LAS VEGAS STRIP LIGHTS MAGICIANS MARRIAGES MUSICALS NEON SIGNS NEVADA NIGHTLIFE PERFORMERS PLAYS RESORTS RESTAURANTS
Geoghegan 7. Widnes 8. Warrington 9. Peter Phillips 10. Abdel Benazzi
9. In which country is the wine-growing
ATTRACTIONS BUFFETS CASINOS CELEBRITIES CLARK COUNTY COMEDIANS CONCERTS CONVENTIONS DESERT DINING DRINKS ENTERTAINMENT FOOD FREMONT STREET
1. Twickenham 2. New Zealand 3. Argentina 4. M. J. K. Smith 5. Kevin O’Flanaghan 6. Simon
wine region?..........................................
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Contact our sales advisors on 950 121 936 or Email: sales@soltimes.com ACROSS
STANDARD CROSSWORD
1 A forceful consequence (6) 4 The rank of a male hereditary ruler (8) 10 Morasses (9) 11 Mistake (5) 12 Model of excellence (5) 13 Depicts in words (9) 14 Act like another (7) 16 Grain storage building (4) 19 Decreases (4) 21 A soft light woolen fabric (7) 24 Pauses (9) 25 Provoke or roar (5) 26 Do without (5) 27 Ready for use (9) 28 Vendors (8) 29 Loves intensely (6)
DOWN
1 Asks (8) 2 Quiet (8) 3 Desert animal (5) 5 Asserts (7) 6 Insurgent (9) 7 By means of this (6) 8 Examine (6) 9 Refrigerator (6) 15 Millstone (figurative) (9) 17 Restrain (8) 18 Praises dishonestly (8) 20 Place or locate (7) 21 Involving financial matters (6) 22 Vertical passageways (6) 23 Stellar (6) 25 Governed (5)
SUDOKU PUZZLES
EASY
SQUIGGLE
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
ACROSS 9 Runner, say at the trouble without the French (7) 10 Ironies becoming louder (7) 11 One rides ones bike, one’s in for journey’s end with frozen spears (7) 12 Improve university parking degree (7) 13 Conceals troubles within slopes (9) 15 Witness head of department taking small money for drug (5) 16 Copper and theologian the French holds close (7) 19 Cunning without women, if given time with 15 (7) 20 Sum up island college’s nice sounds (5) 21 Hard up and going out? Left initially inside making furrows (9) 25 What you’ll be if always without rail disruption? (7) 26 Cost of version of windows in East seen crashing (7) 28 Piece of furniture I catch following taxi (7) 29 Attempts to destroy French forest (7) DOWN
1 Graduate is in new hospital bar (6) 2 High-pitched, quiet brook (6) 3 Went first up without a bargain (4) 4 Conservative and English, a first student journalist came to an end (6) 5 Searches after fashionable inquiries (8) 6 Dutch university housing is good - sulphur can get initially nauseating! (10) 7 Tissue fabric around match (8) 8 Mixing elfin and dry cordial (8) 14 Choices for second votes (10) 16 Compel to hold end of term Monday trade (8) 17 Give an account of violent college derbies (8) 18 See apart, perhaps? (8) 22 Old bishop saw, and did as he was asked (6) 23 Disregard backing part of “Summer on Gibraltar” (6) 24 Foolishly agrees to lubricate (6) 27 Blow up - flipping/very loud (4)
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS ON THIS DAY
STANDARD
Richard III of England (1452 - 1485) Groucho Marx, American comedian, actor, and singer (1890-1977) Donna Karan, American fashion designer, founded DKNY (1948) Tiffany, American singer-songwriter and actress (1971)
SOLTIMES MINION MOMENTS
28
September 2015
FOOD & ENTERTAINING...
CHEESE PLEASE!
1)Pulse the melba toasts in a food processor to make semi-coarse crumbs; transfer to a medium bowl or dish. Mix in the breadcrumbs, oregano, 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper and the cayenne if using. 2)Whisk together the egg whites, whole egg, garlic and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper in another bowl. 3)Put the flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a resealable plastic bag. Add the cheese pieces to the bag, close and shake to coat. Dip one piece of the cheese at a time in Ingredients the egg mixture first, and then roll 10 whole-grain melba toasts firmly in the breadcrumb mixture; 1/3 cup whole wheat then dip the same piece again in breadcrumbs the egg mixture followed by the 1 tablespoon minced fresh breadcrumb mixture. (Note: Use oregano one hand with the dry mixture and Salt and freshly ground black the other with the wet mixture.) pepper Place on a parchment paper-lined plate or baking sheet. Freeze for Large pinch ground cayenne, optional 15 minutes, or up to overnight. 2 large egg whites 4)Preheat the oven to 220°C. Transfer the frozen cheese sticks 1 large egg to another baking sheet. Fully coat 1 clove garlic, minced 1/3 cup whole wheat pastry flour the cheese sticks with the olive oil or unbleached all-purpose flour cooking spray. Bake until golden, about 12 minutes. Sprinkle with 8 sticks part-skim mozzarella string cheese, halved crosswise additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with warm Olive oil cooking spray, for marinara sauce.-foodnetwork coating the cheese sticks
COOKING TIPS CHEESE TYPES
Fresh:When gently heated, fresh cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta and mascarpone make lovely cream sauces for pastas; they’re also wonderful in frittatas and root-vegetable gratins. Washed-rind: Washed-rind cheeses like Reblochon and Taleggio turn runny and soft baked on pizzas and in casseroles; you can trim the rind before cooking, but it’s not necessary. Semihard: Firm but still-moist cheeses like cheddar and the Spanish goat’s-milk Garrotxa are perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches; they also add nutty flavors to soufflés and gougères. Hard: Aged Gouda, Parmigiano-Reggiano and other dry, salty cheeses season dishes like spaghetti, soups and quiches. They form a great crust when they cool after melting.- foodandwine.com
Crisp Mozzarella Sticks
Smoked Gouda-Chorizo Jalapeno Poppers Ingredients 2 links Mexican chorizo, casings removed 250g smoked gouda cheese, grated 65ml (¼ cup) finely chopped red onions 1 egg 115g (½ cup) cream cheese 3 tbsps sour cream 1 tbsp hot sauce (recommended: Frank's Red Hot) Salt and freshly ground black pepper 12 large jalapeno peppers, stemmed, seeded, halved
Baked Camembert Ingredients 1 whole camembert A few sprigs of rosemary or thyme 1 garlic clove, sliced Olive oil Salt and pepper
1) Preheat the oven to 190C/Gas 5. 2) Brown the chorizo in a frying pan over a medium-high heat, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and place into a large mixing bowl. 3) Add the gouda, red onion, egg, cream cheese, sour cream, hot sauce and salt and pepper, to taste. 4) Press the gouda-chorizo mixture into the jalapeno halves and assemble on a greaseproof paper lined baking sheet. Bake until golden and bubbly, about 20 minutes. 1) Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2) Remove the lid from the Camembert and place it onto a baking tray. Using a sharp knife pierce numerous holes into the cheese and press the garlic and herbs into the holes. Drizzle with a little olive oil and lightly season. 3) Place the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and gooey. 4) Great served with some lightly toasted bread for dipping into the cheese.foodnetwork.com
PREPARATION 1. When preparing dishes using cheese, add the cheese at the end of the preparation, especially in sauces, classic risotto, and soups. In casseroles and baked dishes, sprinkle the grated/shredded cheese over the dish the last ten minutes of baking. 2. Grating cheese is easier when the cheese is cold. Four ounces of ungrated cheese yields one cup when grated. Adjustments may be made up or down according to the recipe and the amount of cheese needed. 3. When cooking with cheese on the stovetop, cook cheese over low to medium heat, as cooking over high heat, or for long periods of time, will cause the cheese to separate. 4. Remember that aged cheeses have more concentrated flavor than younger cheeses and often require less additional Ingredients 200g grated Gruyere 200g grated Swiss (Ementhaler or Vacherin Fribourgeois) 2 to 3 tbsp plain flour 625ml dry white wine 60ml kirsch liqueur Freshly grated nutmeg Day-old bread for dipping (cubed)
seasoning. 5. Dishes prepared with cheese and cooked in a microwave oven should be cooked at lower power settings, to prevent the cheese from separating. 6. Simple greens can be transformed into elegant salad courses by the addition of crumbled feta, blue, soft-ripened goat cheeses, or grated hard cheeses, along with toasted nuts and sun-dried fruits, such as cranberries or cherries. A simple vinaigrette, with a trace of Dijon mustard is the classic dressing. 7. Soups topped with cheese croutons are delicious, simple, and elegant. You can use French bread slices, sprinkled with a bit of olive oil and crumbled chevre, cheddar, or semi-soft cheese. Place under the grill until the cheese has melted before adding to the soup.-cheesesociety.org
Tasty Fondue 1) Mix cheeses together in mixing bowl with flour. Place wine in saucepan and bring to a simmer, being careful not to let it come to the boil. 2) Gradually add cheese to wine, adding a handful at a time and stirring constantly until melted. After the last handful has melted, add the kirsch and freshly grated nutmeg, slowly stirring to incorporate. Transfer to fondue pot. Serve with crusty bread-foodnetwork. com
29
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FOOD & ENTERTAINING... Ingredients Salt 1 (500g) package macaroni (cellentani or other curly noodle) 125g rasher bacon, diced 1 medium onion, diced 70g unsalted butter, plus more to butter baking dish 6 tbsp plain flour 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 600ml whole milk 480ml double cream 1 sprig fresh thyme 1 bay leaf 1/2 tsp salt 50g crumbled blue cheese 150g grated fontina cheese 75g grated Gruyere cheese 75g grated white Cheddar cheese 75g grated Parmesan cheese 3 tbsp chopped Italian parsley 10g breadcrumbs
Cheese Lovers Mac & Cheese 1) Preheat the oven to 220C/Gas 8 and butter a 23cm by 33-cm glass baking dish. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil and add some salt. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain. 2) In a large Dutch oven or other heavy pan, saute the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and reserve. Saute the onion in the bacon drippings until soft. Add the butter to the onion mixture and melt, stirring with a wooden spoon. 3) Using a whisk, add the flour and stir constantly until well mixed with the fat, making a roux. Whisk in the mustard. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking constantly. 4) Add the thyme, bay leaf and salt. Let the mixture come to a simmer
Meat and Mushroom Lasagne 1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan and then add the garlic and onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, basil and fennel, and then add the mushrooms and red pepper flakes. Stir in the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Add tomatoes and tomato sauce, bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat and simmer for 40 to 45 minutes. 2. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Mix together the ParmigianoReggiano, cottage cheese, 2/3
Pizza Pot Pie Ingredients
For the Tomato Sauce 1 tbsp olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced
cup of mozzarella and the egg in a small bowl. Stir in the parsley and lemon zest. 3. Spoon one-quarter of the sauce into the bottom of a 13- by 9- by 2-inch baking pan. 4. Place 3 uncooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce without overlapping. Spread half of the cottage cheese mixture over noodles and top with another one-quarter of the sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with sauce, and sprinkle over the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake for 45 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.-foodnetwork.com
For the Pizza Pot Pies: 675g (3 cups) Tomato Sauce 500ml (2 cups) diced roasted chicken 500ml (2 cups) broccoli cut into small, bite-sized pieces
1 tsp fresh minced rosemary leaves
375ml (1½ cups) diced mozzarella cheese
55g diced pancetta
½ tsp salt
1 (795g) can crushed tomatoes
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
680g pizza dough 1/3 cup olive oil 6 tbsps grated Parmesan
and stir frequently for 15 minutes. Strain the hot milk mixture into a metal bowl and discard the solids. 5) Working quickly, mix in the blue cheese, and 3/4 each of the fontina, gruyere, white cheddar and Parmesan. Stir in the reserved bacon and the parsley. Continue to stir until all the cheese is melted. 6) Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and mix to coat. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Mix the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs together and sprinkle on top of the pasta. 7) Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown. Remove from the oven when done and rest for 5 minutes before serving- foodnetwork.com Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 onion, diced 2 tbsps tomato paste 2 tsps ground oregano 1 tsp ground basil ¼ tsp ground fennel 225g portabella mushrooms, chopped Pinch red pepper flakes 680g ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper One 410g can diced tomatoes with basil, garlic and oregano One 425g can tomato sauce 315ml (1¼ cups) grated Parmigiano-Reggiano 250ml (1 cup) small curd cottage cheese One 225g package part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese 1 large egg, lightly beaten 2 tbsps freshly chopped parsley leaves Zest of 1 lemon 9 fresh lasagne sheets For the Tomato Sauce: Warm the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic, rosemary, and pancetta. Saute until the pancetta is crisp and golden, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, stir to combine, and simmer over very low heat for 15 minutes. Add the salt and pepper. Set aside. Preheat the oven to 200°C. In a large bowl combine the Tomato Sauce, chicken, broccoli, mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Divide the chicken mixture evenly between the
No Bake Nutella Cheesecake INGREDIENTS 250 grams digestive biscuits 75 grams soft unsalted butter 1 x 400 grams jar nutella (at room temperature) 100 grams chopped toasted hazelnuts 500 grams cream cheese (at room temperature) 60 grams icing sugar (sifted) METHOD Break the digestives into the bowl of a processor, add the butter and a 15ml tablespoon of Nutella, and blitz until it starts to clump. Add 25g/3 tablespoons of the hazelnuts and continue to pulse until you have a damp, sandy mixture. Tip into a 23cm/9inch round springform and press into the base either using your hands or the back of a spoon. Place in the fridge to chill. Beat the cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth and then add the remaining Nutella to the cream cheese mixture, and continue beating until combined. Take the springform out of the fridge and carefully smooth the Nutella mixture over the base. Scatter the remaining chopped hazelnuts on top to cover and place the tin in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight. Serve straight from the fridge for best results.-nigella.com ramekins. Roll out the pizza dough and cut circles with a pairing knife that are 1-inch wider in diameter than the ramekins. Place the circles of dough over the filled ramekins and press down to seal, making sure to pull the dough over the edge of the ramekin. Brush the top of the pizza dough with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cut a small slit in the top of the pizza dough with a pairing knife. Bake until the pizza crust is golden, about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.-foodnetwork
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September 2015
JAMIE'S 14 'HERO' FOODS THAT HELP YOU LIVE TO 100
Chef names goat's milk, black beans and seaweed among ingredients that should be in everyone's kitchen The chef has travelled the world compiling a list of 14 'hero' ingredients In new TV series, the chef unveils tips that can help towards a longer life This includes limiting meat to two portions a week and consuming the majority of your calories in the first half of the day He has already campaigned for better school meals to improve youngsters' health. But now Jamie Oliver has a more long-term food goal for the nation – a diet that helps us to live to 100. The chef has travelled the world compiling a list of 14 'hero' ingredients, including simple products such as fish and eggs, which he says should take pride of place in everyone's kitchens. In a new TV series Jamie's Super Food, the father of four unveils tips that can help towards a longer life, such as limiting meat to two portions a week and consuming the majority of your calories in the first half of the day. Last night, experts backed up Oliver's claims. Dietician Sioned Quirke said: 'Our health is directly related to what we put into our bodies. So, an indication of a good diet is the length of your life but more importantly for me is the quality of that life for the years that you remain.' In the series, the 40-year-old chef travels to Costa Rica, Okinawa in Japan and the Greek island of Ikaria, all known for their healthy diets. In Costa Rica, where living to 100 is not unusual – partly due to a low-calorie, low-fat, mainly vegetarian diet – Oliver cooks and eats with five generations of
a family, including 106-year-old Jose. On Ikaria, people live an average of ten years longer than elsewhere in Europe and North America, and rates of cancer and heart disease are significantly lower. Oliver recently revealed he lost 2st by sleeping better, giving up alcohol and eating many of the foods he recommends in the programme. The chef says in the show, which continues on Monday on Channel 4: 'It's not about goji berries and green drinks. It's about cooking smart with simple foods … They're all using humble ingredients to make some of the simplest and tastiest dishes I've ever tasted.' As well as the 14 'hero' ingredients, including tofu, black beans, sweet potato and chillies, Oliver found certain dietary habits were common across the health hotspots. This included limiting meat intake to two to three portions a week. Mrs Quirke said this is healthy because meat 'tends to be higher in saturated fats' than other protein sources. Oliver also found in these healthier cultures people tended to have a larger breakfast and a smaller dinner. He says: 'When I've gone around the world to see the people that live the longest and most productive life, they all have a good breakfast.' Mrs Quirke added: 'The majority of us use all our energy during the day, we require energy in the morning and the afternoon rather than having a big bulk of calories … when we are only going to be resting and going to bed.' But Mariette Abrahams, of the British Dietetic Association, said: 'Inherited genetics also play an important part in how long people will live.' Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk
JAPANESE CAFÉ LETS CUSTOMERS ORDER A WIFE FOR THE NIGHT WHO SERVES THEM DINNER IN JUST A BIKINI AND A KITCHEN APRON Ore no Yome offers patrons a 'wife' for the night to serve them food. The 'wives' use the customer's first name throughout the meal They serve them wearing a bikini and a kitchen apron A café has opened in Japan that allows customers to chose a waitress who will pretend to be their spouse for the evening. Ore no Yome, which translates as 'My Wife' in Japanese, list their staff on their website and provides personality features of each woman - such as whether they prefer to sleep on a bed or a futon. When customers visit the café in Tokyo’s Higashi Ikebukuro neighborhood they are met by their 'wife', dressed in only a bikini and a kitchen apron. Customers can peruse the available waitresses on their website before visiting and find out information about them including their birthday, measurements and favourite foods. The 'wife' will also use the man's first name throughout the night while cooking and pretending to be their significant other. An advertisement for the cafe reads: ‘As soon as you know what time you’ll be home, let me know dear! I’ll get your dinner ready’. But the cafe doesn't just provide women. Diners can also book a topless man for the evening, called 'darling husbands,' who wear tight cycling shorts. One member of staff, known as 'Princess' is listed as preferring sweets to breakfast bread or rice and sleeps in pyjamas rather than a t-shirt. In her profile description she is called a 'bright and lively bride.' Another woman, whose name translates as 'To Heaven' said she does not sleep and her favourite food is almond tofu. Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk
FIVE THINGS TO SPREAD ON TOAST THAT ARE BETTER THAN JAM
MARSHMALLOW FLUFF A common staple in American households, Marshmallow Fluff has only recently made its way to supermarket shelves here in the UK. The fluffly marshmallow-like confection is easily spreadable and some recommend melting chocolate over the top to make "s'mores toast". BEER Though currently unavailable, Selfridges once sold spreadable beer. Yes, beer. BEER SPREAD A collaboration between brewer Emanuela Laurenzi and chocolatier Pietro Napoleone, the unholy spread came about after Napoleone suggested that people could eat Laurenzi's beer. They then worked out a way to thicken the beer, giving it a creamy and smooth consistency to make it spreadable on toast. Yum. SPRINKLES If you ask for a slice of toast whilst holidaying in the Netherlands, expect your plate to look a tad more colourful than you would back home. In the Netherlands, sprinkles are commonly eaten on top of buttered bread. The sprinkles (or 'hagelslag') come in a variety of different shapes, flavours and sizes and is used to make plain bread and butter taste similar to cake and icing. Genius. BEANS A staple for university students nearing the end of their interest free overdraft, very few dishes beat a good plate of beans on toast. BEANS ON TOAST You also get some nutritional value out of it as well. Nutritionist Claire Williamson says that beans are an important source of fibre
in the diet, also providing calcium, potassium and iron: "The combination of beans and toast actually provides a good balance of amino acids, so it's a good option for vegetarians." ICE CREAM Where ice cream sandwiches are a dollop of ice cream squashed between two wafers or cookies, ice cream on toast is exactly what you think it is: a scoop of ice cream on a piece of toast. Typically eaten with french toast, celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal is a fan of the dish, saying: "It blurs the boundaries between sweet and savoury, this is one of those recipes that could be presented as a starter, a main course or desert."
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? http://www.telegraph.co.uk/
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TEL: 950 121 936
WELCOME EVENTS
WELCOME GROUP EVENTS THURSDAY October 1st. - Unfortunately Andy McBride has to have an operation and so is unavailable for tonight, we have secured another top group the fabulous Fakers Quo, a Status Quo tribute act as well as Eric Clapton, Thin Lizzy among others, will still be a great night. €10 Wednesday October 21st. - Dance this evening at Mariano’s and enjoy two top acts, the duo Diverse and the lovely Lucinda, a good night for all. €8 Wednesday November 11th. Ladies day out to Benidorm Market and Christmas shopping. Afternoon show at the Rich Bitch included. €15 Wednesday December 9th. - Book now for Christmas Party at Mariano’s. Truly excellent night with Ricky Lavazza and Time Warp. €12 Thursday December 31st. - New Years Eve Dance. Three great artists, Rob Sweeney, Dan Davy and Christine will help you welcome in the New Year with all your friends. Fabulous night to include excellent buffet and champagne at midnight. €20 Welcome Cruise March 6th 2016. - 10 nights aboard Norwegian Epic, fully inclusive including drinks package from Barcelona calling at Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Tangier and Malaga. Price also includes Insurance, Coach travel, Taxes and overnight stay in Valencia. More info call Rosemary. NEW Saville Trip Monday May 2nd 2016 - 4 nights staying in the heart of the city at the newly refurbished 4* Hotel Melia Sevilla on B&B. Price Includes coach travel, day trip to Tio Pepe Factory, Jerez and hopefully another trip to the Jerez Horse Show. €350 p.p. For more information or to book your tickets, call Rosemary on 620 105 179
EX-SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION
Mazarrón District (Founded 1 May 2006) EVENTS - 2015 Wednesday 14th October - 1.30pm for 2pm, Viggos Puerto de Mazarron, Lunchtime Meal Sunday 8th November - 1.30pm for 2pm, Restaurant Trevi, Camposol “B” Remembrance Sunday Lunch following the Service at St Nicholas Church Saturday 12th December - 7.30pm for 8pm Restaurant Bar Med, Puerto De Mazarron Membership and enquiries, Ian 629 818 611 or esamd.espana@gmail.com
A PARKINSONS SUPPORT GROUP
On Tuesdays at 11am At bobbie jo·s, los montisinos For a chat and a cup of tea For further information contact wally Williamson On 966 770 871
Luz del Sol
new properties s.l.
Call us on 968 199 068 www.luzdelsol.co.uk
Centro Comercial #34, Sector A, Urb. Camposol, Mazarron 30875, Spain
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- COMMUNITY NEWS MABS MAZARRON EVENTS
SALES@SOLTIMES
OCTOBER Friday – 9th OCTOBER – Charity Quiz Night – The Clubhouse hosted by Camposol Golf Association. Sunday - 25TH OCTOBER – MABS RACE for LIFE – walk, run or skip around the 4km of 8km course. Entry 10€ for Adults 5€ for Children under 12years includes T-shirts and medals for FINISHERS. Trophies for winners. ****New this year – MABS Race for Life Sheild awarded to winning Team******* Forms available from – MABS Charity Shop; MABS Information Centre, TREVI, ALI PALLAIS, EURONICS,COSTA CAFÉ, BEST WISHES, TEL´s Bar, CAT´s Bar, TROPICANA´s, VISTA Bar, Tuesday - 27th OCTOBER – Volunteers Meeting – TREVIS Bar, Camposol 11.30 all welcome **DON´T FORGET TO VISIT OUR CHARITY SHOP IN TOTANA LOADS OF BARGAINS!!!! ** Donations always needed and welcome REGULAR EVENTS CRAFT GROUP - every other Wednesday from 1.30 at the MABS Information Centre – restarts 9th September after the summer break BOOK SALES – every 3rd Friday at Commercial Sector B Event tickets on sale at the book stall between 10.00am and 1pm or from the MABS Information Centre on Sector B Camposol or by Calling 620 582 418
TABLE TENNIS AT PILAR DE LA HORADADA
Sports Centre every Monday at 10am Five tables equipment supplied, coaching given if necessary, all standards welcome. Contact George on 965 326097 or Gordon on 966 848304 or e-mail drewgeorge49@ yahoo.com.
THE MAR MENOR is a huge (135 square kilometres) salt-water lagoon, separated from the Mediterranean by the 24 kilometre long La Manga del Mar Menor (The Strip). The average depth of the Mar Menor is four metres and at its maximum it is seven metres which means that the seabed slopes very gradually and you have to get several hundred metres in before the water is of any depth. The Mar Menor’s salinity provides buoyancy so it is, supposedly, one of the safest places to swim in the world. The mineral-rich waters are said to
31 there are often dozens of mud people wallowing in it at any one time. Playa Paraiso beach on a summer weekend. The beach at Playa Paraiso is very popular, partly because it has road access right onto the beach. On summer weekends it will be packed with Spanish families, who move most of their house onto the beach. The sea is very shallow, with netted off areas to exclude watersports, fishing and jellyfish. The jellyfish are mainly harmless
AMBER LODGE ANNUAL FUN DOG SHOW SUNDAY 4TH OCTOBER 2015
DOORS OPEN 12NOON - JUDGING 1PM 10 CLASSES PLUS • BEST IN SHOW • RESERVE BEST IN SHOW • BEST PUPPY IN SHOW • BEST VETERAN IN SHOW ALL DOGS WELCOME ROSETTES AND TROPHIES FOR WINNERS BAR-B-Q, DRINKS, ICE CREAMS, STALLS, RAFFLES & TOMBOLAS Please call for information 680 856 235 Or directions available on our website www.amberlodgekennels.com or google maps search Amber Lodge Kennels and Cattery ELX 03295 (Please bring chairs and umbrellas)
have therapeutic effects and because of this the area has a significant spa tourism industry. The sludge in the salt pans is also credited with beneficial effects on the health, so
and much reduced in numbers from previous years, apart from the summer of 2006 when they were back with a vengeance. Playa Honda beach During the week the beach is quiet.
MARKET DAYS IN THE AREA
MONDAY - San Pedro del Pinatar TUESDAY - Los Alcazares / Alhama de Murcia
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WEDNESDAY - Santiago de la Ribeira /
Fuente Alamo / Totana THURSDAY - San Javier / Camposol Sector A / Lorca FRIDAY - Isla Plana (Summer only) SATURDAY - Mazarron Pueblo / Aguilas SUNDAY - Puerto de Mazarron / Mar Menor / Cabo de Palos
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SOLTIMES 950 121 936 WWW.SOLTIMES.COM
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www.ecocorpshop.com Are you getting frustrated at ever increasing electricity bills Do you want a clean, reliable energy alternative If so call Ecocorp on 671 716 597 or 950 930 187 for a no obligation quotation
SUNLIFE SOLAR SOLUTIONS
The finest solar installations on the Costa Blanca
SL registered company 100% legal installations We will beat any like for like genuine written quotation
Tel: 965 271717
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY “Internet Millionaire Reveals Secrets Of Making £1,000 A Week & More Without Any Previous Experience” If you would like to start earning extra money now! Then the internet is definitely the place to do this. You can earn money whilst relaxing by the pool or even earn whilst you’re sleeping. This is the reality for people that are making money online. Read why you should be cashing in on today’s booming economy and discover for yourself how you can turn your passion into a large monthly wage, For Free Information Visit
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TRANSFER & CHEQUES made payable to
MATHEWS MEDIA S.L
Call Paulette on: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 Ext 330 FOR SALE
POOL TABLES snooker tables, table tennis tables, darts.
every single month.
PAYMENT VISA ,PAYPAL, BANK
September 2015
LEASE FOR SALE Bar in Puerto Mazarron Large Terrace Area Fully Equipped Kitchen Store Room Was €34,000 Reduced to €29,995 For more information Tel: 634 027 986
GRASS TOP QUALITY ARTIFICIAL GRASS installed by qualified professionals
Tel: 666 933 726 www.spainpool.com
MARSHALL VALVESTATE 100 WATT COMBO, tons of features. 175€, Thomman P A speaker 350 watt. 15 in speaker with tweeter. Including stand in new condition 75€. FENDER GIG BAG FOR STRAT, TELE. 5€ Tel: 629 975 378 / 966 789 612 BRAND NEW WHITE SLATE SHOWER BASE 70 x 80. Cost 280 euros will accept 100€. Quesada Tel: 966 713 707 MODERN HEADBOARD DB SIZE - white with black inset 75€ Quesada Tel: 966 713 707 MODERN CEILING LIGHT chrome/glass/black panel sides. 50€. Quesada Tel: 966 713 707 SUPANOWA - New Generation of Cooking ! Almost New. Less energy -60%; Convection system. roast chicken, grilled steak, cakes & Pies, etc.. 150€ negotiable. Tel: 693 572 427 CREAM LEATHER TWO SEATER RECLINING SOFA AND TWO RECLINING CHAIRS 275€ Tel: 965 327 431 / 628 606 781 TALKING BOOKS, TAPE OR DISC, 1€ each GOOD SELECTION, Tel: 690 772 178 (San Fulgencio)
call Neil on 693 496 510 mands24@googlemail.com www.artificialgrass.pro
ELECTRICIANS ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE for all works Small or large. Call Dave 693 251 562 davendonc@aol.com
PERSONALS “Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the ads in this section offensive”
SPANISH LADY Playa Flamenca near new Carrefour before La Florida. 37 years, attractive, classy lady, private house, parking. Offers all erotic services, massage, sexy lingerie, prices from 40€. Full discretion. Tel: Ana 865 646 437 ELEGANT slim, sexy, naughty italian lady available home/house visits. Torrevieja, La Manga, Torre Pacheco & Mazarron, Quesada plus all other areas. Escort available home & house visits. Tel: 693 357 526
PETS
SUNNCAMP SCENIC PLUS CARAVAN AWNING 100€, Oregon 14inch petrol chains saw, just serviced 65€, Sky+ HD reciever with remote 40€, Empty orange gas bottld 20€, Collection of over 30 various thriller books 15€, Camposol. Tel: 634 359 089
INSURANCE
ASSSA MEDICAL
INSURANCES Asssa Mazarron, Diane Nolan, 968 153 396
mazarron@asssa.es
Dino is a 2 year old podenco cross and is such a gentle boy. He weighs around 15 kilos and is great with other dogs.
For More Information Please call 645 469 253 info@petsinspain.info www.petsinspain.com
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY CONT.
Business Opportunity
IPTV Spain UK TV Leading the way in UKTV Our systems are the best in the current market DISTRIBUTORS WANTED Due to the expansion in your area We are looking for Distributors / Self Motivated people to work for a fast moving company For more Information Tel: 619 893 214
33
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Call Paulette on: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 Ext 330 or email: sales@soltimes.com
www.soltimes.com PROPERTY FOR SALE / RENT
VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT
SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL
REMOVALS
MOTORING SECTION
De Lima’s
van going from South to North of the UK & back
Quality Second hand furniture showroom
2 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM, PENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN VERA PLAYA ALL MOD CONS, BALCONY & ROOF TERRACE OFFERING FANTASTIC VIEWS CALL 663 977 230 EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com Vera Playa Apartment
DETATCHED CORTIJO REDUCED
BARGAIN
263 Paseo del Mediterraneo Mojacar Playa, Next to Sal Marina Hotel Mon-Fri: 10am-3pm Sat 10am-2pm Tel: 950 615 364 Call Marc on 647 006 183 or Brian on 674 280 268 or e-mail enquiries@delimas.biz
every 2 weeks, based near Murcia
www.delimas.biz
FORTNIGHTLY SERVICE TO & FROM UK FULL OR PART LOADS
JAMES & SON Removals / Storage
UK, FRANCE & SPAIN 20mins from Mojacar, 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas, kitchen & diningroom as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool. Mountain views. €125,000 649 186 107 oremail thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com
FROMONLY 8€ PER WEEK!
lineage from only 30c per word
Your property will appear as shown above and be seen by almost 55,000 Sol Times readers!
PERSONALSHOPPINGFROMTHEUK (Argos,Screwfix,Wickesetc) Pet Transportation & Competitive Rates
0034 627 968 434 0044 7874 638 330 Email: jsinternational@mail.com
Everything you need we have it
Phone Paulette on 950 121 936
Airport. Tel: 610 846 260/ 0044 7519 186 355. or email: van.man@ hotmail.co.uk
SPAS EURO SPAS Spas at factory prices. Used & Ex display models. Spares & repairs. Part exchange Telephone 650 722 905
SAT/TV SERVICES
AA FREE ENGLISH TV
No dish required but a good stable 3mb internet
Ring Pete 606 297 825 www.aafreeenglishtv.com
FOR SALE
LWB SPRINTER
Removals Local, National & international REMOVALS & STORAGE
LOOKING FOR A CAR
We have a good selection of LHD & RHD vehicles for sale or exchange QUALITY CARS PURCHASED ALL PAPERWORK LEGALLY UNDERTAKEN Telephone 600 726 221 or 965 687 976
www.fwreurocars.com
HYUNDAI I20 2011 - 5 door hatch 1.2 66,000 kms, 1 owner Full service history A/C PAS, ABS Front fog lights E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Isofix Metallic electric green
NISSAN TERRANO 2004 - SEVEN SEATER 2.7 TD (125 bhp) 118,000 kms, 3 owners Fully serviced A/C, Alloys, PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors Rear luggage cover CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Side steps Red
FORD FIESTA 1.25 Trend, June ‘12, 5 door hatch, , 43,000 kms, 1 owner, Full service history A/C, PAS, ABS, E. windows/mirrors, CD player, remote locking, rear head restraints, Metallic blue, Just serviced! Four new tyres!
FORD FIESTA 1.25 Trend, June ‘12 5 door hatch, 46,000 kms, 1 owner, Full service history, A/C, PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors, CD player, Remote locking, Rear head restraints, Awaiting full valet, Metallic silver
€8,450
€8,350
www.fwreurocars.com
www.fwreurocars.com
FIAT BRAVO 2008 - 5 door hatch 1.6 Multijet (Diesel) 130,000 kms, 1 owner Full service history A/C, Alloys, PAS, ABS Front fog lights E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Awaiting full valet Metallic burgundy
AUDI TT TURBO 2002 - Coupe 1.5 5v Turbo (180bhp) 135,000 kms 3 owners Fully serviced New camblet & tyres A/C, Alloys, PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Met silver, black leather
600 726 221 965 687 976
600 726 221 965 687 976
RAINBOW SATELLITES for all your TV needs with clients all over the Murcia Region. Contact Matt or Alan on 686 358 475 or rainbowsats@ gmail.com
SITUATIONS VACANT
SOLTIMES NEWSPAPER GROUP
Require a Sales Manager for the Quesada area. You will have proven sales ability, can work to sales deadlines. You will be dealing with current advertising businesses but have the confidence to build new business. You must have a computer to work from a distance, own car and driving licence. High commission package and bonus, contract and mobile phone and expenses. Full training at our head office in Albox Almeria will be required. This is an exciting opportunity. If you have what we are looking for,
Call Paulette on 950 121 936 or email your CV to sales@soltimes.com
€7,750
€7,250
€6,950
€6,450
www.fwreurocars.com
www.fwreurocars.com
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600 726 221 965 687 976
600 726 221 965 687 976
600 726 221 965 687 976
600 726 221 965 687 976
VEHICLES REGISTRATION
WANTED
“RE-PLATE” MATE
CASH CASH CASH
GB
E
Don’t take a chance! Don’t break the Law! Let us take the hassle away from you and re-register your vehicle on to Spanish plates 490€ plus Road Tax plus CO2 Emission if applicable WE PROMISE TO BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTATION For a full service contact:
Alan 662 249 159
www.replatematecostablanca.com
Email:info@replatematecostablanca.com
For re-registration of cars, motorbikes and motor homes contact Graham Shelton Who after re-registering over 1000 vehicles will put you on the right side of the road.
605 319 889 or 966 753 375 www.spanish-number-plates.com info@spanish-number-plates.com
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
WANTED CARS FOR CASH
BEST PRICES PAID SPANISH ENGLISH ANYTHINGCONSIDERED
TEL: TIM ON 662 211 993
34
September 2015
ANIMAL CORNER
To advertise here call : 950 121 936 EASY HORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE
Rescue centre finally receives new horse trailer after months of delays www.easyhorsecare.net. A new horse trailer ordered by Rojales’s Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre six months ago has finally arrived, horse that’s never been loaded on a trailer before, after months of wrangling with the Salamanca it can be very difficult to get them to go up the ramp. It can also be quite dangerous if they try to manufacturer. leap off the side. And often they’re very ill,” Sue Centre co-founder Sue Weeding said she the said. new trailer was ordered in February after the axel “This model can actually be lowered almost down snapped on the previous trailer, which was 15 to the ground so the horse just gets straight on years old and had rescued more than 100 horses. Though it was temporarily repaired, a new and and it also has special non-slip flooring. Its much more reliable trailer was desperately needed. After safer for us and for the animals we rescue. We hearing of the troubles, supporters generously wanted something that would pick up anything, fundraised €5000 to buy a custom-made trailer, from a huge horse down to a tiny little miniature pony or donkey, and we’re absolutely over the which was due to be finished in April. However, a series of delays for a while put delivery moon with it.” in doubt. The manufacturer eventually offered to sign-write the centre’s logo across the trailer for free, as an apology for the ongoing delays. Sue said the new trailer had been specially designed to make rescuing sick, frail, injured and old horses easier and safer. “Our previous trailer had a ramp and if you have a
The centre, which relies solely on donations to fund its work, now houses 96 horses, ponies and donkeys rescued from terrible situations of abuse and neglect.
Volunteers are desperately needed to keep its network of eight charity stores open, especially in the Pilar de la Horadada shop. Those interested in volunteering to work in the shops can call cofounder Sue Weeding on 652 021 980. Donations of large items such as furniture are also sought, and a pick-up service can be arranged to collect them from your house. Each shop also offers a delivery service for large items purchased from the charity store. The rescue centre, located just outside Rojales at Partido Lo Garriga 59, opens to the public on the first Sunday of every month from 1pm to 4pm. For more details and directions, please visit
APAH
SPACE FOR A LITTLE ONE? If anyone is looking to adopt a large dog, APAH has rescued a litter of puppies, who apparently are Great Dane X puppies, so are likely to be very large when fully grown. To arrange to meet the family, please call 630 ayta is a beautiful and very 422 563 or 616 affectionate ginger female, who has lived in the APAH Cattery since 210 850.
she was rescued as a tiny kitten with the rest of her litter. She loves to be stroked and cuddled and would make a wonderful companion cat for someone who can give her her first loving home. To arrange to meet Tayta, please call 630 422 563 or 616 210 850.
WWW.APAHRESCUE.ORG
www.easyhorsecare.net.
PETS IN SPAIN DINO
Dino is a 2 year old podenco cross and is such a gentle boy. He weighs around 15 kilos and is great with other dogs.
645 469 253 - info@petsinspain.info www.petsinspain.com
MOUNTAIN VIEW
CAT HOTEL Hondon de las Nieves/Frailes
Centrally-heated houses with large individual runs Love and care will be lavished during your cat’s stay My 29 years of experience in animal and veterinary care will give you piece of mind
Pick up & delivery service offered for coastal areas
Telephone: 966 195 816
Answerphone - we will call back: Mobile 654 155 473
www.mountainviewcathotel.webs.com
HOW TO SPY ON YOUR PET AT HOME The new PetBot gadget lets you check up on your fourlegged companion via alerts and animal selfies. Pet owners often wonder what their furry friends do when they’re unsupervised all day. It’s even the subject of a new animated film. That question takes on a special urgency in close urban quarters. Is my dog barking so loudly that the downstairs neighbors can hear? Does my cat start clawing at the couch when it gets spooked by a noise outside? What if you could know exactly what your pet is doing while you’re at the office or grabbing drinks with a friend? That’s the idea behind PetBot, a cube-like device that allows you to check up on your pet while you’re on the go. Equipped with a camera and facial recognition software, PetBot detects whenever your animal moseys in front of the lens. This prompts it to emit a few sounds to grab your pet’s attention and encourage it to move towards the camera. Once your pet is close enough, PetBot is able to capture a brief video, and even dispense a treat. Users can download a smartphone app that issues a notification when the pet takes a short video “selfie.” These alerts distinguish the device from other pet cams and apps on the market, which make you log in to check up on your animal. You can even program the settings so that your pet’s selfie will automatically upload to Instagram. Like most pet cams, the app lets you watch a livestream of your pet’s activity. PetBot is also equipped with what the company calls “bark notification,” which alerts you when your pet starts barking. The app also permits you to give commands, so that you can control when the PetBot makes a sound or dispenses a treat. You can even record your own voice to ensure that your pet will respond. When the device hits the market, it will retail for $199. The first round of shipments for early bird customers will be delivered by Christmas 2015, and the second round is scheduled for mid-2016 www.citylab.com
JAKE
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TV & Film Review
AN INSPECTOR CALLS BY J.B.PRIESTLEY BBC1 DRAMA. 2015
www.carolnaylor.blogspot.com - www.carolesleynaylor.wordpress.com - naylorcl@hotmail.es
“There are millions and millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths, still left with us, with their lives and hopes and fears, their suffering and chance of happiness all intertwined with our lives and what we think, and say, and do.” I feel as if I’ve grown up with Priestley’s play and it’s not just my northern roots. When I went into teaching in the 1970s it was on the syllabus and it was a good choice to cover in our limited time for O level and GCSE. It is, after all, a short play, easy to read and study so not a particularly great challenge for most students. It’s now 2015 and Priestley’s play is still on the literature syllabus and I still come across it in my capacity as an examiner. This adaptation was by playwright Helen Edmunson who develops the character of Eva Smith by showing frequent flashbacks, highlighting the hardships for the working class at a time when war was imminent. It was meant to be 1912. Thankfully she chose to omit the long-winded, laborious speeches of Arthur Birling at the start of the play, full of snobbery and pretentiousness. Aisling Walsh directed it. A star-studded cast complements a good script and accomplished acting particularly from David Thewlis, as Inspector Goole, better known for his role in The Theory of Everything” and “Harry Potter,” who plays a leading and powerfully enigmatic role of massiveness, solidity and purposefulness. Ken Stott, Miranda Richardson, Chloe Pirrie, Kyle Sollar ( recently in Poldark), Finn Cole and Sophie Rundle play supporting roles. Filmed in Location at Scampston Hall in North Yorkshire and the scenes from the mill were shot closer to Priestley’s roots in Saltaire (near Bradford): Salts Mill, Albert Terrace and William Henry Street. The play was premiered in 1947 and first opened in Russia 70 years ago. The 1954 Alastair Sims film sticks closer to the play. I find it interesting comparing interpretations. One of the best staged versions was the 1992 National Theatre production. During the 50s and 60s the play fell out of favour, being considered too bourgeois which is ironical considering that the bourgeoisie came out of it very
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badly. It resembles a drawing-room classic thriller, Agatha Christie style which allows it to translate well into a gripping modern drama for the 21st Century and a modern audience. Almost 6 million viewers tuned in to watch it when it was first screened. The drama begins with two people in bed. The man asks the woman an intriguing and odd questions considering they have just made love: “Do you believe in God?” The answer is yes and the woman continues to explain her disillusionment with people. “I can’t believe in people. I have to believe in something or I’d fall. Fall down through the cracks and never stop falling.” It sounds ominous and will lead into a didactic piece of theatre with the playwright pleading for shared humanity between upper/middle and working classes. The main scene is set in the dining-room of the Birlings, an affluent family. The maids are laying the table for a special occasion. Sybil Birling, a haughty and proud woman arranges the flowers as her daughter gets ready. We catch a glimpse of the men at work, Arthur and son Eric, in the Yorkshire mill where they employ hundreds of girls before leaving in style and donning formal dress for the engagement of Sheila to Gerald Croft, son of a rival family in business. Birling hopes that the marriage will unite the two families and create a business empire, giving him ultimate power and prestige. When Gerald arrives, he removes his coat and then grabs Sheila, embraces her and pins her to the wall, moving well away from Priestley’s play but trying to muster up some sexual chemistry to engage the masses no doubt. When everyone is seated there’s plenty of drink, toasts to the wonderful couple and light-hearted banter with a bit of moralising from the father of the family, a loathsome, self-important and self-made man. In the actual play he moralises at length, referring to war and the Titanic. “The way these cranks talk now, you’d think that everybody has to look after everybody else, we’re all mixed up together like bees in a hive.” John Plunkett from The Guardian compares his views to Thatcherism-everyone for themselves. A union between two powerful families would secure Sheila’s whole future as Sybil points out to her. After the
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meal and toasts the women vacate the room to allow the men to have a man-to-man talk. Birling is keen to tell Gerald of his prospect of getting a knighthood as long as he keeps out of trouble, spoken light-heartedly. “It’s not where you start in life, it’s where you finish.” So, at this point when he is feeling confident he receives an unexpected visitor and this is when Goole arrives, like a bat out of hell and demolishes this jovial atmosphere stating that a young woman died in the infirmary three hours ago after drinking disinfectant which burnt her insides out. She died an agonising death. Her name was Eva Smith. We are then given graphic flashbacks taking us back to 1910, showing us this Eva Smith and detailing her involvement with each of the members of the Birling family and Gerald Croft. It seems that these people were partly responsible for Eva’s suicide and Goole wants to make sure that they accept responsibility for their thoughtless behaviour. He is sombre throughout, removes his coat and refuses to budge until he had done his duty, which means name and shame the culpits. “We don’t live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other. And I tell you that the time will come when if men will not learn that lesson, they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish.” What still baffles audiences is what the Inspector represents. There is metaphysical speculation that the playwright has created a supernatural manifestation reminiscent of the Old Testament The older generation will not accept any responsibility but the impressionable Sheila and Eric do. From then onwards, things will never quite be the same again. I close with a remark from Alison Graham, journalist: “The Inspector exposes the Birlings’ class-strapped hypocrisies. And, to this day, its final twist still tingles the spine.” No spoilers, sorry. Worth a watch though.
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MOTORING
September 2015
REVIEW
2015 KIA PROCEED GT REVIEW
MINOR UPDATES KEEP KIA'S PERFORMANCE VERSION OF THE CEED COMPETITIVE, BUT IT REMAINS MORE WARM HATCH THAN HOT HATCH
WHAT IS IT?: An updated version of the Kia Proceed GT. The company recently revealed the facelifted version of its Ceed hatchback at the Frankfurt motor show and those updates are now naturally being extended to this, the performance variant. Upgrades for 2015 include larger brakes, up from 16in to 17in, new 18in alloy wheels, a new grille and the same redesigned front bumper you'll find on other facelifted Ceeds. The suspension's been revised, too, in an effort to deliver a keener, more engaging drive. It's all sounding good until you get to the note in the press materials that talks about the GT's new "electric sound generator", which is designed to enhance the engine's natural sound inside the cabin. This electric sound generator is more commonly called a sound symposer, and they're something of a poisoned chalice. While they can fill the cabin with a 'sportier ' - typically
just louder and more pronounced - noise, they can end up sounding unpleasant or overly artificial. More often than not you're left with the sense that the car's natural engine note isn't sporty enough itself. On looks alone, though, the GT is a real winner. Its larger wheels and unique light clusters set it apart from the rest of the Ceed range, while inside there's all of the usual hot hatchback features you'd expect - sports seats, contrasting stitching and unique graphics for the digital instrument cluster. While the GT's looks have been upgraded, power from its turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine remains the same, with 201bhp and 195lb ft of torque. WHAT'S IT LIKE?: The 201bhp petrol engine provides a decent surge of power, helped by its twin-scroll turbocharger, but acceleration feels simply rapid rather than rocket-ship fast. Kia says the GT can reach 60mph in 7.3 seconds before getting to its maximum speed of 143mph, which is fine but remember the VW Golf GTI manages the same sprint in 6.5 seconds and has a higher top speed. The Kia's new sports suspension delivers a firm ride but it is still comfortable. You'll feel most road bumps at low speeds, but on the motorway the GT is well composed. There's some road noise from the tyres, but as with the regular Ceed wind noise remains fairly low. So what about the sound symposer? It's well implemented, adding a suitably sporty and engaging note, but once you've realised it's all electronic trickery then some of the shine is taken away. The other trouble is that without the symposer activated, the GT doesn't sound nearly as good. Like the regular Ceed, the GT's steering is on the lighter side but it feels pleasingly direct. The Kia changes direction sharply and remains easy to drive without feeling unsettled. Likewise, the sixspeed manual transmission provides smooth, quick changes. On the right series of corners, the GT is suitably fun to drive. It just doesn't have as much muscle as you might hope, though, and that's something which leaves it trailing behind the class best http://www.autocar.co.uk/
IN THE NEWS
FOCUS RECALLED FOR HALFSHAFT DEFECT
Ford has issued a recall for its small car, which could lose drive to the wheels Ford is recommending to Focus owners that they exercise care while accelerating away from a standing start According to a recall notice issued by the company yesterday, the halfshafts that drive the front wheels could fail, leaving the car without the means to maintain speed, let alone accelerate. That would place the driver and passengers at risk of a collision, prompting the recall notice. In the recall notice, Ford advises that 4277 vehicles are affected, but these vehicles are part of a broader customer campaign (Program R1413) that applied to 10,669 vehicles in total. A Ford spokesman has advised motoring.com.au that around 60 per cent of the vehicles named in the customer campaign have already had the work done, leaving 4530 cars yet to have their halfshafts replaced. Ford is writing to all owners of the subject vehicles, which were built between May 21, 2013 and January 24, 2014. For further information, Ford advises owners contact their nearest dealer or phone the company’s Customer Relationship Centre http://www.motoring.com.au/
BMW IMPLICATED IN VOLKSWAGEN EMISSIONS SCANDA The fallout following the Volkswagen NOx emissions scandal has now spilled way beyond the company, with fellow German manufacturer BMW seeing its value plunge today as one of its models is also implicated in emissions test cheating. German weekly car magazine Auto Bild revealed this morning that its tests on the X3 xDrive 20d showed it emits NOx at a rate 11 times legally allowed in Europe. The news is further confirmaton that emissions test cheating is both rife and worldwide, after Volkswagen yesterday admitted it had rigged tests in Europe too. BMW’s shares have today dropped by a startling nine percent, while Daimler, Fiat, Peugeot and Renault have all seen their share values drop by between four and seven per cent, as the scandal deepens. The emissions scandal is already shaping into the biggest crisis that the automotive industry has ever faced, with suspicion placed on every major car manufacturer. BMW was one of those quick to distance itself from cheating in emissions tests after Volkswagen admitted doing so in the US, which instantly saw billions wiped from its value - currently €13bn and counting. Reacting to Auto Bild’s revelation today, BMW has reiterated that it does not “manipulate or rig any emissions tests.” “We observe the legal requirements in each country and adhere to all local testing requirements. When it comes to our vehicles, there is no difference in the treatment of exhaust emissions whether they are on rollers or on the road,” said the company in a statement. Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn resigned yesterday, calling the scandal a grave crisis and promising a ‘fresh start’ for the company. Separately, Volkswagen followed by stating that ‘internal group investigations are continuing at a high tempo.’ To recap, the issue relates to a ‘cheat device’ fitted to a specific Volkswagen 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, internally codenamed EA189, and fitted to 11 million vehicles in the US since 2009. The cheat device, fitted between the engine and the exhaust system, detects specific driving patterns so that it can alter the characteristics of the car when a rolling road emissions test is being performed. The device specifically reduces Nitrous oxides emissions (NOx), which are linked to exacerbating and even causing respiratory disease, but doing so increases the car’s fuel consumption. When not in use, the car is more efficient but, it’s been discovered, releases huge amounts of NOx. Volkswagen has already admitted that its other mainstream brands – Skoda, SEAT and Audi – use the engine in question, with a Spanish newspaper today claiming that SEAT has used 500,000 since 2009. It’s believed that a Volkswagen 1.6-litre diesel engine could be using the same system too, though this is yet to be confirmed. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/
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CD ALGAR 3 MAZARRON FC 1
Despite an improved performance Mazarron conceded three goals in the last half hour to slump to defeat at CD Algar and slip to the bottom of the
league table. Mazarron started the game well with Juanma causing problems for the home team with a couple of dangerous crosses from the left, both of which just eluded the onrushing Jose in front of goal. At the other end Juan Andreo raced back to hook the ball off the line after an Algar forward had cleverly chipped over Antonio in the Mazarron goal. Jose was working hard up front for Mazarron and twice combined well with Santi but shot wide on both occasions. Mazarron went close on 28 minutes after Jose was fouled on the edge of the area. Champi’s free kick was driven across goal but scrambled clear by the Algar defence. Then, almost immediately, Juanito beat three men before finding Juanma on the left but, once again, Jose could not quite reach his cross. In a rare break just before half time a long ball found an Algar forward running on to hit a fierce shot goalwards but Antonio made a superb save only to see the linesman flagging for offside. Algar brought on former Mazarron favourite Jose Ruben at the start of the second half in what turned out to be an inspired substitution. However, it was Mazarron who took the lead after 48 minutes when Santi’s through ball saw Jose racing clear and he
slipped the ball past the Algar keeper for his third goal of the season. Lorca went close for Mazarron with a fierce free kick from all of 35 yards but Algar equalised after an hour when Juan Andreo gave away a needless free kick on the edge of the penalty area and Adama was on hand to force the free kick over the line. After 67 minutes Antonio made another good save to deny Jose Ruben but Mazarron also went close with efforts from Jose and Juanma. However, it was the home team now in the ascendancy and another free kick on the edge of Mazarron’s penalty area found Jose Ruben unmarked at the far post and he drove the ball past Antonio to give Algar the lead after 79 minutes. Mazarron pressed forward in search of an equaliser leaving just three men at the back and paid the price when a superb through ball saw Jose Ruben racing through from the halfway lane to steer the ball passed Antonio and complete the scoring. Team: Antonio; Juan Andreo (Silverio); Lorca; Juan Fran; Mounir; Juanlu; Juanito; Champi (Cristian); Santi; Juanma (Alberto); Jose Man of the Match; Jose
EL PIRATA SCRAMBLE A good turn out of 22 members and 2 guests met up late morning on the 15th September at Bar El Pirata for coffee and for some a glass of brandy. The venue for the day was the very local La Marquesa Golf for a ‘Texas Scramble’. Our photographer, Kristoff, took a group photograph outside the bar with further photographs taken of each of the four balls on the first tee for distributing to the members. The weather was on the warm side with only a slight breeze. The course itself was not in the best of conditions, but had improved from the previous Sunday, when some of the members had played it. This was recognised by the Golf Club which gave us a discount which offset some of the minor disappointment of some of the members. Overall the members thoroughly enjoyed the day with lots of banter and laughter. The two guests enjoyed it so much that they are now members!!! The winners on the day were Team F comprising of John Rush, Colin Hilditch, John West and Roger Farrington with a net score 62 Second were Team B comprising of Ludi Dent, Brian Philpotts, Norman Potter and Richard Heighes with a net score 63 NTP winners were 5th - John Rush, 11th – John Young, 15th – Russ Burrows (much to his surprise and everyone else’s), and the 17th – John Young
After the game we returned to the bar for a well deserved drink. As always our hostess Sam provided food which is always appreciated. Our photographer, Kristoff, returned to record the winners and as on previous occasions wives, girlfriends and partners joined us for the presentation which always makes for a great atmosphere. Our next games have been booked for the 29th September at La Torre Golf followed by our game on the 20th October at Font del Llop. If you are interested in joining our happy, friendly crew please contact us by e-mail at elpiratagolfsociety@ outlook.com or by visiting the Bar El Pirata, located in Quesada,close to the roundabout, a sand wedge away from the 18th green.
LIONEL MESSI LOSS IMPACTS BARCELONA’S STYLE, SAYS LUIS ENRIQUE Luis Enrique admits the potential t womonth absence of Lionel Messi will have an impact on Barcelona’s st yle of play. Messi suf fered knee ligament damage in Barca’s 2-1 La Liga victor y over Las Palmas on Saturday and they take on Leverkusen in their Champions League Group E clash on Tuesday with limited options to replace him in at tack. The FIFA transfer ban for signing underage players that prevented Barca bringing in reinforcements over the last t wo transfer windows along with the sale of Pedro to Chelsea and the long term injur y for Rafinha has lef t them with mainly youth players as back-up. “It is always sad when a player is injured. In the case of Messi it is not necessar y for me to say what we
all know that he is ver y impor tant to the team,” Barca manager Enrique said. “Without Messi we lose a lot of things from our st yle of play that we will now have to rearrange collectively but I have no doubt that we will overcome this.” Leverkusen still have to deal with Neymar and Luis Suarez, the other components of an at tacking trident that bagged 122 goals last season and Enrique feels the absence can even be an oppor tunit y for the team as a whole to show its value. “This team will cope fine and will deal with this,” he said. “It is capable of doing so well because it has personalit y and courage. It can be seen as a test and a stimulus.” h t t p : // w w w . sk yspor ts.com/
BRADLEY BREAKERS
965 723 270 607 848 332
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September 2015
BENEFITS OF ECU REMAPPING & WHY THE MANUFACTURERS DON’T DO IT!
ECU remapping will not only improve the engines power and torque figures, it will also sharpen the throttle response and widen the power-band. This will make the power delivery a lot more linear, which in turn will make the vehicle feel a lot livelier to drive and the engine more flexible. Manufacturers generally sell one vehicle that covers various markets, with different tax and emissions regulations; different climates with extremes of heat, cold, humidity; different fuel quantities; different operating altitudes, etc. A manufacturer has to take all of these factors into consideration and make substantial compromises in the vehicles operation. As a driving enthusiast, you do not need or want such restrictions placed upon your vehicles ECU and its performance therefore you can benefit from the hidden power and torque locked away within your engine management system. The other main benefit of remapping will be a reduction in fuel consumption. With the extra torque especially at the bottom of the rev range you will see a fuel saving, as it will require less throttle input to maintain motorway speeds, you can drive in a higher gear at a slower speed as well as helping
significantly when fully laden, towing or on gradients and even in start stop traffic. The emissions are improved, due to a more efficient engine, and everything is kept well within safe limits of the engine. Veloc Tuning are proud to announce that we are now “IMI Certified Professional Engine Tuners” here in Spain. The IMI is the “Institute of the Motoring Industry” that set very high standards of training and expertise within the Motoring Industries in the UK. We are fully qualified within our field. Do not settle for anything less. Call Paul on: 600827517 or 950104488 Visit www.veloc-ecuremapping-spain.com Email: paul@veloc-ecuremapping-spain.com Official Dealer for Quantum Tuning UK Covering most of the Costas of Spain. Contact us to see what we can do for your car……
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Sol Times Calida and Sol Times Blanca are independent of political parties, private investment and government. Our policy is to provide readers with a news and information service that is fair, accurate and balanced. Sol Times Calida and Sol Times Blanca are independent publications. Published weekly and produced exclusively in Murcia & Blanca. Sol Times News Group cannot be held responsible for claims made by advertisers, nor can it be held responsible for errors in advertisements caused by poor quality text, photographs or layout instructions. Furthermore, no responsibility can be accepted for any loss or damage resulting caused by any error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of an advertisement. Deposito Legal Sol Times Calida AL 851-2010. Sol Times Blanca AL 852-2010
LORENZO WINS IN SPAIN
Spaniard Jorge Lorenzo won the Aragon GP in his home country to narrow the gap on title rival and Yamaha team-mate Valentino Rossi to 14 points. Lorenzo eased to victory after overtaking world champion and pole sitter Marc Marquez at the start. Honda’s Marquez crashed out on lap two as he chased the fellow Spaniard, while Rossi was third behind Dani Pedrosa. In the Moto3 race, Britain’s Danny Kent failed to finish but still holds a 55-points lead in the riders’ standings. Kent is hoping to be the first British champion in any class since Barry Sheene in 1977. Lorenzo might have had a comfortable time in securing his sixth win of 2015 but the battle for second behind him made for an enthralling spectacle.
Rossi made his move with five laps to go, but each time he overtook Pedrosa his rival would immediately regain his position. On the last lap, it appeared Rossi might have made a move that would count, but Pedrosa again came back to move second and, despite making a mistake, held on. “I tried everything but Dani was able to overtake me in the next corner and come back,” said Rossi. Pedrosa added: “It was really hard to focus on keeping my lap times and closing the door. It was really hard in the last 10 laps. “I tried to fight and stay in front. I lost a little grip and could feel his engine behind me. It was a good battle and it was nice to race to the end.” bbc.com
That time of year again when the year’s Captain prepares for handover to the new incumbent, but before the act transpires both the Captain’s Day golf competition and Dinner need to take place. For the former an excellent turnout of 52 members and 11 accompanying guests gathered at the SMGS oft frequented course of La Finca to take part in a stableford competition, principally for the Captain’s Day Prize, but also a wide range of additional prizes, several of which were donated by kind sponsors (Mick the Grip, Moneycorp and Golf Hot Spots). A beautiful day and a course in good condition, particularly the greens, now recovered fully from recent hollow tining, led to good scoring. The one outstanding return posted belonged to Norman Padmore, now clearly recovered from knee knack. His 42 points not only won the Captain’s Trophy and the main prize (a wonderful golfing trip for 2 to Valencia donated by Golf Hot Spots), but also stomped on Captain Phil de Lacy’s initial hopes (which could have been embarrassing) of taking his own trophy, although Geoff Giddy would, in the end, have actually just pipped him on count back, both having scored an excellent 39 points. Steve Higgins (Gold), Roger Webb (Silver) and Richard Bland (Bronze) were the only other players to better their handicaps. Pretty much everybody stayed for the prize giving, and special thanks were giving by Phil to all those who had contributed to making the day such a success. After the ceremony, and a short break to stock up on refreshments/down another Coronation Chicken wrap (kindly supplied by the Captain and Vice Captain’s good ladies), 27 members remained behind for the year’s end AGM, the minutes of which will be posted on SMGS’s website some time soon. The Captain’s dinner takes place this Friday (Sept 25th) at Campoamor Clubhouse. The day’s main competition results, by category and in reverse order, were the following: Bronze Category: 4th Karen Simpson (34), 3rd Brian Mulligan (35), 2nd Richard Bland (37), and 1st, with very much the best score of the day, Norman
Padmore with a superb 42 points.
SAN MIGUEL GOLF SOCIETY CAPTIANS DAY
Silver Category: 4th Mike Jordan (34), 3rd Roger Webb (37), 2nd Captain Phil De Lacy (39 on CB) and 1st, with the same very god score, Geoff Giddy. Gold Category: 4th Mike Frankish (35), 3rd Jack Simpson (36 on CB), 2nd Darren Hancock (36 on CB), and 1st, Steve Higgins with 37 points. Other Results and Prizes: Nearest the pins on the par 3’s (open to all) went to Mick (The Grip) Reeves (3), Mike Frankish (6), Steve Higgins (13) and Jacqui Rust (16). Nearest the pin in 3 went to Norman McBride (Hole 10, Bronze), Steve Davis (11, Silver) Ben Price (7, Gold) and Robin Eastman (18, All Players). Nearest the Captain’s Drive on the 1st was won by Kev Courtney (most players preferred to stay nearer the centre of the fairway!!!). Nearest the Bunker on Hole 9, without actually being in it, went to Charles Farrington. Longest Drive on Hole 8 went to Norman Padmore for the men and Paula Hagart for the Ladies. The day’s Best Gross Score was achieved by Jack Simpson with a very respectable 77. The Abacus was won by long hitter (see above) Paula Haggert. Four Best Guest Prizes went to: 4th Les Benjamin (31 on CB), 3rd Peter Girens (31 on CB), 2nd Kevin Courtney (32), and 1st, with a clear gap, Steve Bradshaw with 35 points. Our thanks go to the staff at La Finca golf course for their contribution to a very enjoyable day. Keep up to date with all SMGS matters by logging on to our website www. smgs.org or simply give Barry Roehrig a call on 966 731 033 to find out more about the society and its weekly golf get-togethers. Next week we will be at El Valle.
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EL RASO AT FONT DE LLOP
On Friday 25th September a rather depleted society (due to holidays etc) played Font de Llop. The course was in good condition and the scores reflected this. The winner with 36 points was Tony Stead and in 2nd place with 34 points was John Barraclough. The best front 9 went to Debbie Weedon and the best back 9 Kevin Williams. The best guest with 31 points was Martin Rogers. Nearest the pins 3rd Debbie Weedon, 8th Dave Nicholls, 12th Will York, 16th Terry Sharley 17th John Barraclough.
Congratulations to all the winners. After the game we went back to the Olde 9th and enjoyed a scrumptious stew and bread provided by Grant and his staff.
SUCINA GOLF SOCIETY, ANNUAL CAPTAINS DAY EVENT
Our annual event being held at the IRM course Saurines de la Torre, near Roldan, choosing a Match Play format. Although it was not as hot as our last two games, it was still quite warm and the course being in a great condition as usual. The Match Play format seemed to be very interesting for those players that haven’t played it before. On an individual basis, some very good scores were returned. In addition, we were raising funds for our 2015 Charity - Casa Cuna Sucina, and to make the event more interesting, we also had additional competitions which players could enter for a nominal price. On the
day funds raised for our chosen charity totalled 163€’s through various competitions. Our Members & Guests being very generous. Our Captains Team romping home with a 7-3 win! Well done everyone.
The nearest the pin prizes went to: Hole 6 Sharon Seed, Hole 10 Granham Platts & Hole 18 Ann Dyos. No winner on Hole 14. Following this event on Saturday, 19th September, we held our Captains Dinner / Dance. This was held at La Mario’s in Sucina. A fantastic evening and an auction was held which raised a further 140€’s for the Charity.
EUROGOLF SOCIETY Best Front 9: Joe Ogden 18pts
Eurogolf Society's first stableford of the season was played at La Marquesa Golf Club, in conjunction with the Non Winners Cup (eligible to members who did not win a Trophy last season!) It was also our first stableford off the plates (back tees) as a qualifying handicap scoring competition, under our new handicap system in accordance with the EGS regulations, which we hope will result in fairer and more effective handicap for all players. The course at La Marquesa has had a few problems over the last few weeks, but is improving rapidly, and we hope, with the lovely warm weather at the moment, all our members and guests enjoyed their game today. Results as follow: OVERALL WINNER & WINNER OF NON WINNERS CUP Congratulations to COLIN HOBDEN scoring 38pts. Gold Division: 1st Malcolm Foskett 34pts, 2nd Sue Gillett 30pts (c/b) 3rd Pino Perito 30pts. Silver Division: Gordon Bourne 35pts, Dave King 32pts, 3rd Ken Brett 30pts Bronze Division: 1st Colin Hobden 38pts, 2nd G. Evans 33pts 3rd Sandy Holland 32pts
Best Back 9: Harry Armstrong 19pts Nearest the Pins: 5thJohnh Barraclough, 11th Morag Turner, 15th Pino Perito, 17th Keith Wright. Football: J. Barraclough, I. Pegg, D. Valentine, P. Perito CBA -3 TOFFS RESULTS for Tuesday 15th September – Overall Winner – F. Berndt Gold Division: 1st P. Perito 37 pts, 2nd D. Gregson 36 pts (c/b) 3rd I. Pegg 36 pts Silver Division: 1st F. Berndt 39pts, 2nd R. Richards 36 pts, 3rd J. Fairhurst 31 pts Bronze Division: 1st C. Hobden 34pts, 2nd A. Berndt 33 pts, 3rd C. Green 32 pts Nearest the Pins: 5th F. Berndt, 11th I. Turner, 15th K. Wright, 17th J. Fairhurst. Best Front 9: P. Venables 20pts, Best Back 9: J. Ogden 21 pts Football draw: R. Richards, I. Stewart, G. Evans, B. Martin. The first social event of our Jubilee year is a Poolside Buffet at La Marquesa on Saturday 19th September, followed by other exciting golf and social events to celebrate the Society's 25th Anniversary. Anyone interested in joining us for a game is most welcome and should check our website: eurogolf-quesada.co.uk and follow the links.
MARABU LOUNGE GOLF SOCIETY For this month’s meeting a group of 21 players visited the established course at Vistabella taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services. The course was in excellent condition as usual and the weather was absolutely beautiful with temperatures and humidity much lower than recent months. Today was the WHACKER TROPHY in memory of Shaun Dear. The winning scores on the day were as follows: 1st – Mike Probert - 37 points 2nd – Rod Allen - 36 points 3rd – Geoff Wetton - 35 points 4th – Steve Hanaway - 32 Best Front 9 – Graham Freeman – 22 points Best Back 9 – Jack Fanning - 17 Nearest the Pins – Dave Bensley and Geoff Wetton Dog of a Day – Andy Jones Football Card
Winners– Jack Fanning After the game we returned to the Marabu Lounge, which is located at Pueblo Brava, Quesada for a welcome meal prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their continued support. Our next interim fixture is at Saurines on 12/10/15 and Captains Day is also at Saurines on Thursday 29/10/15. Report by Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or see us at our web-site at www.costablanca-greenfees.com.
25th YEAR ANNIVERSARY
The Eurogolf Society must be one of the oldest golf societies on the Costa Blanca and in recognition of 25 years, special Jubilee events, competitions and commemorative prizes are planned throughout the season. On Saturday 19 September 2015, the first of several scheduled celebrations took place at the Clubhouse Poolside, where members and guests enjoyed an informal get together and a delicious buffet. First formed in 1990 by a group of dedicated golfers who used to get together on a Thursday morning for a friendly game of golf it began life under the auspices of the Euro Leisure Club. By 1991 membership had grown to over 40 so the decision was taken to form Eurogolf Society. The principle of the society was to provide regular golf competitions and to hold social events on a regular basis. With La Marquesa Golf Club opening in 1989 the decision was taken to make this venue the home course for the society, which it remains to this day. Over time a good relationship developed between the society and the golf club, which has enabled us to now accommodate a membership of over 120. Over the years the course has improved dramatically and is now a very good venue for the society golf. In 1997 it was realised that, with most members also being members of La Marquesa and the growth in other (mainly Scandinavian) societies, further tee times would
be necessary. As a result a sister society, TOFFS was formed which now plays every Tuesday. This is more of a social society only playing Stableford competitions and, within reason, allowing players to choose their four-ball. Eurogolf organises over 40 games during the season, which runs from September to June. As well as the obligatory monthly medal and monthly stableford, team games are also played. In addition to this there are some specific trophies played for during the season (eg President’s trophy, Founder’s trophy etc). Annual society competitions are also organised. On the social front, regular dinner/ dances are held in addition to a number of brunches taking place during the season usually coinciding with a fund raising day. The society takes pride in the funds raised each year for the Royal British Legion and the Captain’s chosen charity. It has to be said that Eurogolf has to be one of the success stories on the Costa Blanca going from strength to strength yet still retaining that friendly feel both on and off the course which is a great testament to all involved in the society, and, of course, Guests are always welcome! More information about the Eurogolf Society can be found on www.eurogolf-quesada.co.uk.
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