Roquetas 469 by Sol Times

ISSUE 469

Property management Sales & Rentals

see our main advert on back page

Tel: 663 426 921 info@enviapropertyservices.com www.enviapropertyservices.com

roquetas & almerimar

14 - 20 JAN

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Relaxed, friendly bar and restaurant serving great food, drinks and tapas

until holiday for sed & clo fish chip shop 19th January

open last friday of the month Calle Faro, Almerimar

At the entrance to the port

Tel: 950 563 560

food & cuisine page 28 & 29

arboleas page 10

SEE OUR MAIN ADVERT ON PAGE 12

Arkrites

British Food Store

Groceries & frozen foods including legs of New Zealand lamb, gammon joints, lambs liver. Large Selection of Greeting Cards double knitting wool

Mon - Fri: 10.30am - 2.30pm Sat 10am - 2pm

TEL: 950 334 081

out of hours please call 950 334 544

In the Urb of Roquetas de Mar, just off Avda de Mediterraneo in the square near La Gamba Toscana & Theos

Queen + Adam Lambert Tour TOP GEAR LIVE How Now Mrs Brown Cow Tour To Book Tickets for These Events Plus Other Offers

Log on to www.soltimes.com

JAKS

Wide Range of UK, Continental & Indian Foods & Spices selection of electrical Goods OPENING HOURS:

Mon - fri 10am - 6pm sat & sun 10am - 7pm

Tel: 950 609 419

calle JABEQUE, 42, ALMERIMAR

trip advisor winner 2014 certificate of excellence rack of Lamb available Menu del dia 9.90€ served friday - wednesday

Enjoy Pierre’s French Cuisine Kitchen open: 12.30 - 3.00, 7.00 - 10.00. Closed Thursdays Plaza Los Jazmines 10, 04740 Roquetas de Mar Opposite Playa Capricho in the car park

Tel: 950 334 439 Email: lavita@roquetas-de-mar.es

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SOLTIMES january 2015

SOL News

Blood test to help smokers quit

A blood test could help people choose a stop-smoking strategy that would give them the best chance of quitting, research in a Lancet journal suggests. Studies show as many as 60% of people who try to give up start smoking again in the first week. But researchers argue measuring how quickly a person breaks down nicotine could boost the chances of success. Other experts say the costeffectiveness of these extra tests would need to be assessed. Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances in cigarettes - smokers crave more nicotine when their body’s levels drop, prompting them to smoke again. But different people break down nicotine at different rates. Some scientists suggest people who break it down more quickly may crave more cigarettes and in turn find it harder to quit. In this study, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania in the US enlisted some 1,240 people on different smoking cessation programmes. They checked each volunteer’s blood to see if nicotine was broken down at a normal or slow rate. Volunteers received either a nicotine patch, a drug called varenicline or treatment with a dummy pill. Varenicline is a non-nicotine based drug that is available on prescription . Doctors balance potential side-effects - including the risk of depression and suicide - against the harms of continued smoking. Everyone in the trial had access to behavioural counselling too.

Scientists found people who broke down nicotine at a normal rate had a better chance of quitting while using varenicline than those using nicotine replacement patches. Though volunteers who broke nicotine down more slowly had similar success rates whichever method they used, they reported more side-effects with the varenicline. Prof Caryn Lerman, one of the lead researchers, said: “If these tests are used, people could have a sizeable chance of success. Wider use“For some people, with normal metabolism of nicotine, the chance of success might be low on the patches but could double if they take the pill while for a third of the population with slower breakdown, cheaper patches might be best.” Blood tests to check for nicotine breakdown speed are currently used in research but scientists say they could be easily developed for much wider use. Prof Neil Davies, of the University of Bristol, provided an independent comment: “The results are an important scientific advance. “If the findings can be replicated they could lead to changes in practice. But there are still questions that need to be answered. “The cost-effectiveness of these tests would need to be taken into account.” Prof Robert West, from University College London, who was not involved in this paper, said: “We know that if people try to quit unaided their chance of success for a year is about 4%. bbc.co.uk

Superheroes Win Big

Superheroes dominated at the People’s Choice awards, a popularity contest which marks the beginning of the prize-giving season. Iron Man and Avengers star Robert Downey Jr was named favourite movie actor for the fourth year in a row, and favourite dramatic actor. Downey’s fellow Avenger, Captain

the award to his Eastern Congo Initiative. Disney’s Maleficent triumphed over Captain America, Guardians of the Galaxy, 22 Jump Street and X-Men: Days Of Future Past for favourite movie. Melissa McCarthy won the People’s Choice award for favourite comedic movie actress, while Adam Sandler won favourite comedic movie actor for the fifth consecutive year. It is unlikely the pair’s films Tammy and Blended will make a reappearance at the award season’s other events. At 93, Betty White - best known for her role in Golden Girls was named favourite Iron Man and Avengers star Robert Downey Jr TV icon, accepting her award amid a standing ovation. America star Chris Evans won favourite Helped on to the stage by Evans, action movie actor, and said: “I don’t she said: “I cannot, cannot possibly win stuff so this is kind of cool.” say thank you for ... Can you imagine, Amy Adams awarded her Batman Vs the People’s Choice, at 93? Thank you Superman costar Ben Affleck with the with all my heart.” humanitarian award, praising his work The Big Bang Theory was named in providing aid and trying to change policy to help improve the lives of the favourite TV show, and Viola Davis won favourite actress in a new TV series people of eastern Congo. for How To Get Away With Murder, “I’ve been called a lot of things in my and thanked the show’s creators for life but I’m not sure if humanitarian is “thinking of a leading lady who looks ever one of them,” Affleck said. like my classic beauty”. “The one way to combat the sad Australian rapper Iggy Azalea won things we see, the terrible things we favourite hip hop artist and also see, is to bring a little bit of kindness performed her hit Beg For It. into the world,” he added, dedicating orange.co.uk

that offers specific courses on how to officiate at a marriage.

Las Vegas-style weddings under the Canarian sun It all began to change in 2009 when the number of civil marriage ceremonies (95,000) began to outnumber church weddings (80,100) for the first time in Spain. Since then, there has also been a surge in the number of marriage officiants, which has today almost become a profession. Madrid now has its own training center for wedding officiants – the first graduating class consisted of 12 people, who have been busy ever since, even though their role has no official legal standing in Spain. One particular location has also begun to stand out in this boom in civil marriages: the Canary Islands, which is emerging as Spain’s answer to Las Vegas, where hundreds of people tie the knot around the clock every week.

Many couples are not satisfied with merely heading down to their town hall and getting a certificate stamped. Wedding officiants are busier than ever because the number of civil marriages is continuing to grow – last year there were 106,000 such ceremonies, according to the National Statistics Institute. Many of these couples are not satisfied with merely heading down to their local municipal court or town hall and getting an official certificate stamped – they also want something more special, even if it isn’t legally binding. “For a lot of them that kind of procedure is similar to renewing your identity card, where you can go down dressed in jeans,” explained Ana López, director of Apoyo Eventual, the only academy in Spain

Opened in Madrid last April, the school offers three different courses based on a curriculum inspired by those of similar academies in the United States. People can be certified as Officiant I, Officiant II or in Protocol. So far, there have only been graduates in the Officiant I category “because this position is enough to preside over a wedding,” López said. The course costs €99 and includes three hours of theory in the morning and three hours of practice as a wedding officiant in the afternoon, separated by a lunch break. Andreas Fischer didn’t need any formal training. By chance, he presided over his first marriage in 2008 when some friends, who had just put together a weddingplanning company in Tenerife, asked him to officiate at a ceremony at the last minute. They thought Andreas would be the right choice because of his outgoing personality and his elegant manner. Since then, he has officiated at nearly a hndred civil ceremonies, a duty he combines with his morning job as an investment advisor. The money officiants make – about €200 each at two or three weddings a month – is not enough to live on. Andreas is one of around 10 people in Tenerife who officiate at weddings

on a regular basis. Many of them have registered as self-employed, even though the money they make from presiding over marriages – about €200 each at two or three weddings a month – is not enough to live on. It is just extra cash. Recently, Andreas presided over a ceremony held for Nikola, 31, and Mario, 29. The German couple decided to exchange vows during a trip to Tenerife after they officially got married several days before in their own country. Such ceremonies are not uncommon in sunny Tenerife, which many foreigners find the ideal place to tie the knot or renew their vows. “We organize around 70 weddings a year and we have seven officiants who can perform marriages in Spanish, German, English, Lithuanian and Russian,” said Nadine García, the owner of wedding organizing firm My Perfect Wedding in Tenerife. In the future, these officiants could face tough competition if a new law is passed that will allow notaries to legally conduct weddings alongside judges, mayors and town councilors. Nicolás Quintana, a notary, predicts that if the law is passed, there will be more informal ceremonies presided by notaries rather than the formal proceedings that take place in the courts and at town halls. elpais.com

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SOL News

Berlin Film Festival to Open with Juliette Binoche Starrer ‘Nobody Wants the Night’

Spanish director Isabel Coixet’s “Nobody Wants the Night,” which stars French actress Juliette Binoche, will open the Berlin Film Festival. The film will world premiere on Feb. 5 as part of the international competition. Binoche, who won an Oscar for “The English Patient,” is joined in the ensemble cast by Japanese actress Rinko Kikuchi (“Babel,” “The Brothers Bloom,” “Pacific Rim”) and Irish thesp Gabriel Byrne (“The Usual Suspects,” “Miller’s Crossing”). The adventure film is set in 1908 in Greenland, and focuses on “courageous women and ambitious men who put anything at stake for love and glory.” Pic, which is a Spanish-FrenchBulgarian co-production, was shot in

Bulgaria, Norway and Spain. “Isabel Coixet has created an impressive and perceptive portrait of two women in extreme circumstances,” said Dieter Kosslick, director of the Berlinale. Six films by Coixet have been presented in various sections of past Berlinale programs, including “My Life Without Me” in 2003, and “Elegy” in 2008 in competition. In 2009, Coixet was a member of the festival’s international jury. Kosslick added that it will be the first film to be screened in Dolby Atmos in the fest’s main venue, Berlinale Palast. http://variety.com/

The Aftermath Of Paris

by Martin Shortland

Al Qaeda is plotting to massacre huge numbers of civilians in Britain and other western countries, the head of Mi5 has warned. Andrew Parker, director general of the security service, told a select group mostly from the Royal United Services Institute at his London headquarters that while the so-called Islamic State is the newest threat to the West and that selfstarted lone wolf plots are hard to foil, Al Qaeda still has ambitions for something more spectacular. He said, ‘We know that terrorists based in Syria harbour ambitions towards the UK - trying to direct attacks against our country, and exhorting extremists here to act independently.’ But this was in addition to newly identified plans from al Qaeda to revisit their traditional style of operations. He added, ‘We still face more complex and ambitious plots that follow the now sadly wellestablished approach of Al Qaeda and its imitators: attempts to cause large scale loss of life, often by attacking transport systems or iconic targets.’ Al Qaeda experts are known to have moved from Pakistan to Syria, where they may be able to draw on British volunteers to conduct attacks in the UK. Their mission is entirely focussed on plots against the West. They are known to be led by Muhsin al Fadhli, an expert bomb maker wanted by the FBI who has a £5m price on his head. He moved to Syria two years ago and was unsuccessfully targeted in a coalition air strike last year. It is also known that British citizens

are in the ranks of al Qaeda in Syria and could be used in a major atrocity back home. The domestic spy chief spoke hours after the UK’s COBRA committee ordered a boost to national security. Home Secretary Theresa May said, ‘Following the attacks in Paris we took the precautionary step yesterday of increasing security at the French-UK border. The UK threat level, which is set by the independent Joint Terrorism Advisory Centre, remains at severe; that means a terrorist attack is highly likely and the public should remain vigilant.’ Extra police have already been deployed at British ports and stations serving the Eurostar. Lone wolf plots aimed at the police and military have surged over the last year and these have combined with the Paris killings to cause unease among officers. A British hate preacher backed the Paris massacres just hours after the bloody events unfolded and told his followers ‘Britain is the enemy of Islam’. Cleric Mizanur Rahman, of Palmers Green, north London, defended the brutal murder of 12 people at the Charlie Hebdo offices, saying ‘insulting Islam…they can’t expect a different result.’ Experts have warned the sermon, which backed the jihadists who killed 17 people over three days in the French capital, could incite further killings. Speaking to an audience in London which was streamed online to thousands of his followers, Rahman praised Al Qaeda and said ‘Britain is the enemy of Islam.’ Sam Westrop,

Further Restoration of Public Areas in Mojácar

One of the most emblematic areas of the historic old town of Mojácar has been recovered for public use following the renovation and development of the site of the old mill next to the ‘Fuente’. The project, involving the investment of a hundred thousand Euros and taking two and a half months to complete, was included in the Mojácar town plan of works for 2014. The resulting recreational area was once of great socioeconomic importance and vital to the commercial activity of the area. During the opening ceremony the Mayor, Rosa Maria Cano, said: “For centuries, this part of Mojácar has been the place where people had to visit; after all ’Where there is water, there is life’. At one time there were more shops here than in the town centre. During the middle-ages and beyond there used to be a water powered mill, a cattle market as well as a general market for food and supplies. The grain mill and the associated bakery were key meeting places to conduct

business and exchange gossip”. The Mayor added that in this area, a miniature replica mill and some reclaimed mill artefacts have been installed as well as some original stones from the ancient Fuente. These stones were well-worn by the women who used to do their washing whilst putting their feet in the water, as was customary centuries ago. Thanks to this urban development, there is now a sports and play area for younger children. Additionally, there is now much improved night lighting as well as a wider street with allocated parking spaces, renovated and aesthetically improved irrigation ponds. In short, Mojácar has been provided with yet another attraction which is in harmony with the touristic nature of the town and of benefit to locals and tourists alike. No wonder Mojácar is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.

director of counter-extremism group Stand for Peace told the Sunday Mirror: ‘His kind of rhetoric is not an echo of Islamist terror and extremism – it is a driving force behind it. It is truly reprehensible for him to speak like this, especially so soon after Paris.’ Paris and large parts of France are still under a state of high alert with thousands of troops, police and Special Forces agents on duty at airports, stations, motorways and high profile buildings across the country. French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said ‘exceptional measures’ were being taken to try and prevent further attacks, including deploying snipers on roofs. At the huge march on Saturday attended by over 40 world leaders, Home Secretary Theresa May was among those scheduled to meet Mr Cazeneuve before the march to discuss the threat posed by Islamic militants. French President Hollande also met leaders from Paris’s Jewish community at the weekend, who are still in shock following the atrocity at the kosher grocery store. UKIP leader Nigel Farage came under criticism following a string of radio and TV interviews he conducted after the Paris attacks. He blamed the UK’s immigration policies for allowing what he called ‘extremist factions’ to move freely between European countries, saying there was a so called fifth column actively operating in Britain and Europe with the sole intention of bringing about attacks such as the ones in France. He was condemned by members of all political parties for a “sickening” attempt to exploit the atrocity for his

own political benefit. Conservative party chairman Grant Shapps said: “At a time when it’s important to calm tensions it’s irresponsible to be inflaming the situation. “There is no basis in any faith for this kind of atrocity. Our energy should be spent on capturing the killers and preventing others.” In Spain, a similar level of heightened security exists at border crossings, airports and rail terminals. President of the government Marion Rajoy has called for extra vigilance in what he called, ‘this extremely worrying time for the safety of democracy in Europe.’ Spanish people still have a vivid memory of the horrifying train bombs which killed more than a hundred people in Madrid seven years ago. The question on most peoples’ lips is how does one prevent similar attacks from happening in the future? The simple answer is that it’s very difficult. Security agencies across the world spend vast sums of money in a continuous effort to track down terrorist cells and whilst they are sometimes successful, the chances of them preventing an attack like the ones in Paris are slim. The very nature of the way small, fanatical extremist groups operate makes it almost impossible to gain access to their plans. In the past week, we have seen yet again what a handful of terrorists can do, not just in terms of cold blooded murder, but in the capability of bringing a country – a continent to a standstill. Most frighteningly though, we have been reminded yet again to what ends those who are driven by shear hatred are capable of carrying out in the cause of Islam.

SOL News

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r e t f a k o o l Let us s i h t e m o h r u yo winter ekoswiss

Innovative Technology

Eco friendly Cleaning A thorough ‘spring’ clean can be called for at any time of the year! Sometimes are homes just need some love and attention. But before you crack open the heavy duty, chemical laden cleaning products check out these tips for a more ecofriendly - and cost-effective - way to get your home clean and gleaming. The natural difference... As well as many being tested on animals (bad karma!), many cleaners contain a cocktail of chemicals, which can not only irritate your skin to use, but destroy friendly as well as dangerous germs. There are growing concerns as to the effect these chemicals have on eczema and asthma as well as skin allergies. You can safely involve your children in cleaning using the tips, ingredients and ideas below and it is a perfect

If you don’t want to be cold this winter then why not consider investing in clever low energy heating by Oekoswiss Made in Switzerland, these infrared heated glass panels have many advantages over conventional heating systems – not least of which is the low operating costs of between 4 and 11 cents an hour, depending on the size of the panel. Perfect for every room in the house – the panels are unobtrusive and can be fixed on walls and on ceilings – high or low – because infrared heat does not heat the air, it heats inanimate objects and warms everything in the room – no hot air rising to the ceiling whilst feet are frozen. Ideal for bathrooms and shower rooms, where the infrared heat also helps to keep dampness to a minimum so it helps to stop mirrors misting on the coldest days A worthwhile investment in cosy warmth for this winter 10 Year Guarantee

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Triton Property Services Triton Security Services When you want something done, professionally, reliably and on time then you need people who pride themselves on providing the service you need with total trust and commitment. Pool Cleaning Landscaping Property Management Key Holding Property Maintenance Vacant Property Checks Gardening & Strimming Home SecurityImprovements Painting & Decorating Plus Home Care Services Providing the right people for the job!

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• Use olive oil to get rid of finger marks on stainless steel surfaces and utensils. Put some on a kitchen towel and rub over the finger marks. • White vinegar (or better still white wine vinegar) is an all-purpose cleaner. It will clean and deodorise as it goes. Here are just some of its uses: • Use 50/50 mixed with water as a cleaner in your bathroom and kitchen. • Put an egg cup full in your washing machine to use instead of softener. It’s great for towels or cloth nappies as the coating fabric softener gives them makes them less absorbent. • It’s a great descaler. Soak paper towels in the vinegar, wrap them around taps, cover with plastic bags and secure with elastic band and leave for a few hours - taps will come out looking brand new.

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• Repairs to existing pozos Email: blockeddrainsrus@albox-online.net

introduction to showing your children how easy it is to work with the planet...with not a flowery skirt in sight! Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda) This breaks down grease and is great added to vinegar or lemon juice to make them more abrasive. It is also a great deodoriser in fridges and dish washers as well as a water softener. • Mix it with a bit of water to dissolve grease and grime. • Use dry on carpets to lift out stains. • Bicarbonate of soda neutralises most strong odours. • Use on a damp sponge and smear on stains on general surfaces. • For blocked drains chuck some over the plug holes and then pour some vinegar over. • Bicarbonate of soda can also be sprinkled on carpets before vacuuming to freshen them up.

Tel: 620 112 193

We are a professional S.L. registered company that has been trading in Spain for several years.

Mob: 677 114 576 or 695 118 960

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Full Chimney Sweep & Inspection Service Available Olive & Eucalyptus Full & Part Loads Stacking Service Available

Tel 619 070 839

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

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Over 600 Islamist Fighters Return to EU

Upward of 600 Islamist fighters have returned to Europe from Syria and Iraq, Spanish Minister of the Interior, Jorge Fernandez Diaz, said Friday. “There are hundreds of those who are right now in Europe, and they can intensify their activities any moment as individuals or as members of offshoots [of the terrorist organizations] or minimally structured groups, and can conduct such tragic attacks as we have seen day before yesterday in Paris,” he said in an Interview with the Spanish Telecinco channel. The statement came in the light of the recent Charlie Hedbo terror attack in Paris, allegedly carried out by Islamic extremists. According to Diaz, approximately 3,000 Europeans have joined different extremist groups in the Middle East of late. About 80 percent of them were fighting for Islamic State (IS), whilst others joined various offshoots of al-

Qaeda. Some 70 Spanish fighters went to Middle Eastern countries and nearly 10 of them have already returned. About a half of them have been detained in Spain or Morocco, the Minister of the Interior stated. Concerns over the danger posed by foreign fighters returning from the Middle East to their countries of origin have been raised by a number of European leaders. Since the beginning of the civil conflict in Syria in 2011, some 15,000 foreign fighters have entered the country to join different extremist groups, according to UN estimates. Research by the UK-based International Centre for the Study of Radicalization and Political Violence revealed that one in five foreign fighters in Syria came from Western Europe. http://sputniknews.com/

SOL News

Corden: Chat Show Debut Will Be A Disaster

James Corden has told Sky News he is “terrified beyond belief” of making his debut as host of the US chat show The Late Late Show. Speaking at a gala screening of his new film, the musical Into The Woods, the actor joked that presenting the daily programme was “going to be a disaster”. The Gavin And Stacey star will take over from comedian Craig Ferguson to present the CBS show in March. Ahead of his new role he has been awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list for services to Drama. “I feel very proud to be recognised in such a way but I’m not stupid enough to think for a second that I deserve

it and I’m well aware that there are people who deserve it a lot more than I do,” he said. Corden plays the male lead in Disney’s adaptation of Broadway musical alongside Emily Blunt and Meryl Streep, who are both nominated for Golden Globe awards for their performances. On attending the ceremony with her 29th nomination Streep said: “For me they’re important in that now I’m so old I’ve worked with everyone in the room, so it’s like a reunion without being a funeral.” Associated Free Press

we buy

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the largest selection of second-hand goods in the area

VERA CHILDRENS HOME RECIEVE XMAS GIFTS A huge “Thank You” to the staff and clients/customers of the following establishments for providing the very welcome Christmas Presents for the children at the Hogar San Agustin children’s home in Vera. “Bar La Union”, La Alfoquia. “Total Entertainment”, Albox. “Total Entertainment”, Arboleas. “Farrow’s Hair Design” Arboleas. “CAT Services”, La Alfoquia. “Bar Trabalon”, La Alfoquia. “La Vida” Lounge & Restaurant, Cucador. “Local Restaurant”, La Alfoquia. “Room 97” Hairdresser, La Alfoquia. “Frankie’s Bar”, Vera Playa.

HOUSEHOLD ANTIQUES GARDEN FURNITURE sales rooms HOUSE CLEARANCES sales rooms

More Sofas available New & Second-hand

Large range of Bathroom fittings

Sales rooms OPEN DAILY FOR sales 73 Ctra Lorca - Baza, Albox, Almeria 04800 ON THE LONGO’S SITE

950 06 45 76 661 75 98 82 Mon - Tues - Weds - Thurs & Sat 9am-2pm F riday Evenings 5pm-9pm

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DO YOU HAVE TIME! - TO SEE IF YOU ARE OWED MONEY? Keep Calm and Claim PPI Stress Free From Your Chair In Spain Last summer I had enforced time at home recovering from a broken ankle. I was far from impressed with this latest disaster of mine and finding daytime T.V. really did not do it for me so I decided to catch up with some personal paper work, which was long overdue to say the least. I had some forms for different companies regarding PPI claims I could make from when we were in England, but these forms were stating claims from only 8 to 10 years. I felt it was going to be a waste of time and ink completing these forms as we had been here for 10 years plus. Talking to my brother about this paper trail he recommended a company called The Fair Trade Practice to me. He had started using them and said I should give them a bell. Well I got straight on the “old dog and bone”, which I always prefer to pen pushing and everything was so easy. The VERY BEST BIT is the 8 to 10 years which was being implied is rubbish. This company look into your loans, mortgages and credit cards going back 20 years or more. That’s more like it! They do it all for you, chasing any companies you have been involved with whilst you were in the U.K. All you do is put your feet up and let them take the stress, right up my street. Since then I have spoken to friends who have tried to get their PPI Claims sorted themselves

with no good results to boast about. They have been told it will be dealt with, but they’ve had no response and one company never even bothered to send the required forms. One was told that now you live in Spain you cannot claim, so they have filed their paper work away again. This just isn’t true, and it’s been so much easier having a U.K. based company do all the work than doing my self from overseas. It’s worth looking in to, these are some of their statics for you to consider:1 in 3 of their clients have successful claims. 81% of their successful clients did not think they had PPI There average successful clients can receive 3,400.00, 95% of their clients are recommended to them, which says a lot about a company in this line of work. They are not a hard selling company and they do not advertise as they work on a word and mouth policy. I have to say I like how this company acts towards their clients, in a calm and professional attitude, this is one of my main reasons for recommending them. You canfind out more on their website:- wwwthefairtradepractice.co.uk As well as clients in the U.K they have clients

in Spain and as far afield as Brazil, Australia and many other countries too. If they find that you do not have any PPI there is no charge so you have nothing to lose. Contact Adam Lawrence by e.mail:- adam. lawrence@thefairtradepractice.co.uk or telephone 0044 1329 223 660 and ask for Adam directly. When they ask you who recommended you just say Chris from Spain. Why not see if you get some pounds back from mis-selling, turn them into Euros and buy something nice for your home or just treat yourself. Good luck with your claim and have a good experience as I did. Written By Chris of Furniture Plus Centro Comercial La Piramide (Above Mercadona Opp. Lidl) Puerto de Mazarron. Tel. 968 153 907

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Do You Have a Question About : • • • • • • •

Spanish or UK Wills The New Laws Regarding UK Pensions Savings & Investment Returns Getting The Best Currency Exchange Rates Spanish Laws Inheritance Tax Funeral Costs In Spain

Well here is the solution. EVERY QUESTION WILL BE ANSWERED ON THE DAY.

The event will be held at 12 noon on

Tuesday 27th January at

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or call

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Once all the questions have been answered we will be buying EVERYONE lunch!

TOUED ND UE N A D NTI EM D CO H G HI

LET'S INFORM YOU

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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

SOL FEATURE

Home & Garden A CHIMNEY OR FLUE NEEDS CLEANING ONCE A YEAR! WHY?

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Bedroom Basics A well-designed bedroom can not only provide a calm, tranquil environment in which you can escape the pressure of modern living, but also add value to your property through its appeal to potential The emphasis in any bedroom is on relaxing and sleeping, but depending on what else you what you want to do in your own space – working, watching TV, etc. – there may be other elements that you wish to incorporate into your bedroom design. You have the choice, of course, of fitted or freestanding bedroom furniture. Fitted furniture allows you to create your own, coordinated look, and can be useful if your bedroom is an odd shape, or there are awkward areas to be filled. Fitted wardrobes also usually extend from floor to ceiling, creating extra storage space for bedding, etc. that needs to be stored separately from your clothes, shoes and accessories. You do need to exercise a little caution when planning fitted furniture, however, as filling more than one of your bedroom walls with fitted wardrobes may make the room feel a little claustrophobic. If you prefer the flexibility – in terms of being able to rearrange various items, at will – of freestanding furniture, you can mix and match pieces that suit your needs, both externally and internally. If you wish to store long winter coats, or party dresses, for example, you’ll need the full height of a wardrobe to hang them in, and don’t forget drawers and shelves, for sweaters, shoes, etc.. The bed is the focal point of any bedroom, of course, and dressing the bed is as important as your choice of furniture. The trend in bed linen this year is likely to be towards brighter and warmer styles, which are reflected in colour and texture in curtains, blinds and other soft furnishings to create

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Home & Garden

a sense of style in the bedroom. The easiest and most straightforward way of opening up any room is to whitewash the walls. White helps to redefine the space available in a room by distorting the mind’s perception of where the boundaries actually lie – in effect, white walls can make a small room look spacious and airy. In contrast, dark walls have the effect of closing the boundaries in

considerably, therefore giving the impression of less space than there is in reality. Nevertheless, refreshingly white walls ought to be complemented by bold bedroom furniture colours. The bed in particular must be a focal point in the room, therefore it is advisable to opt for rich, deep colour schemes with vivid and imaginative patterns that will instantly draw the eye’s attention.

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A Californian officer worker got the shock of her life when a 5ft snake slithered out of a toilet bowl. Stephanie Lacsa, who works for a marketing firm in San Diego, thought the toilet was blocked and got to work with a plunger. Not the most pleasant job in any event but she couldn’t believe what she disturbed with her efforts to free the ‘blockage’. “I thought my eyes were deceiving me,” she explained. “But as soon I saw the flicker of its tongue, I definitely knew that it was in fact a large snake heading straight towards me.” “I ran out of the bathroom screaming louder than I’d like to admit and taped the door. The animal control officer said that she had never witnessed anything like this in her career.” San Diego’s Animal Control team eventually captured the Colombian Rainbow Boa and they are investigating how it got into the building’s plumbing. The snake, which experts said was underweight, is currently being nursed back to health as the team attempts to find its owner.

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with merely heading down to their town hall and getting a certificate stamped. Wedding officiants are busier than ever because the number of civil marriages is continuing to grow – last year there were 106,000 such ceremonies, according to the National Statistics Institute. Many of these couples are not satisfied with merely heading down to their local municipal court or town hall and getting an official certificate stamped – they also want something more special, even if it isn’t legally binding. “For a lot of them that kind of procedure is similar to renewing your identity card, where you can go down dressed in jeans,” explained Ana López, director of Apoyo Eventual, the only academy in Spain that offers specific courses on how to officiate at a marriage.

SOL News

Superheroes Win Big Initiative.

Disney’s Maleficent triumphed over Captain America, Guardians of the Galaxy, 22 Jump Street and X-Men: Days Of Future Past for favourite movie. Melissa McCarthy won the People’s Choice award for favourite comedic movie actress, while Adam Sandler won favourite comedic movie actor for the fifth consecutive year. It is unlikely the pair’s films Tammy and Blended will make a reappearance at the award season’s other events. At 93, Betty White - best known for her role in Golden Girls was named favourite TV icon, accepting her award amid a standing Iron Man and Avengers star Robert Downey Jr ovation. Helped on to the stage by Evans, she said: “I action movie actor, and said: “I don’t cannot, cannot possibly say thank you win stuff so this is kind of cool.” for ... Can you imagine, the People’s Amy Adams awarded her Batman Vs Choice, at 93? Thank you with all my Superman costar Ben Affleck with the heart.” humanitarian award, praising his work The Big Bang Theory was named in providing aid and trying to change policy to help improve the lives of the favourite TV show, and Viola Davis won favourite actress in a new TV series people of eastern Congo. for How To Get Away With Murder, “I’ve been called a lot of things in my and thanked the show’s creators for life but I’m not sure if humanitarian is “thinking of a leading lady who looks ever one of them,” Affleck said. like my classic beauty”. “The one way to combat the sad Australian rapper Iggy Azalea won things we see, the terrible things we favourite hip hop artist and also see, is to bring a little bit of kindness performed her hit Beg For It. into the world,” he added, dedicating orange.co.uk the award to his Eastern Congo

Opened in Madrid last April, the school offers three different courses based on a curriculum inspired by those of similar academies in the United States. People can be certified as Officiant I, Officiant II or in Protocol. So far, there have only been graduates in the Officiant I category “because this position is enough to preside over a wedding,” López said. The course costs €99 and includes three hours of theory in the morning and three hours of practice as a wedding officiant in the afternoon, separated by a lunch break. Andreas Fischer didn’t need any formal training. By chance, he presided over his first marriage in 2008 when some friends, who had just put together a wedding-planning company in Tenerife, asked him to officiate at a ceremony at the last minute. They thought Andreas would be the right choice because of his outgoing personality and his elegant manner. Since then, he has officiated at nearly a hndred civil ceremonies, a duty he combines with his morning job as an investment advisor. The money officiants make – about €200 each at two or three weddings a month – is not enough to live on. Andreas is one of around 10 people in Tenerife who officiate at weddings on a regular basis. Many of them have registered as self-employed, even though the money they make from presiding

over marriages – about €200 each at two or three weddings a month – is not enough to live on. It is just extra cash. Recently, Andreas presided over a ceremony held for Nikola, 31, and Mario, 29. The German couple decided to exchange vows during a trip to Tenerife after they officially got married several days before in their own country. Such ceremonies are not uncommon in sunny Tenerife, which many foreigners find the ideal place to tie the knot or renew their vows. “We organize around 70 weddings a year and we have seven officiants who can perform marriages in Spanish, German, English, Lithuanian and Russian,” said Nadine García, the owner of wedding organizing firm My Perfect Wedding in Tenerife. In the future, these officiants could face tough competition if a new law is passed that will allow notaries to legally conduct weddings alongside judges, mayors and town councilors. Nicolás Quintana, a notary, predicts that if the law is passed, there will be more informal ceremonies presided by notaries rather than the formal proceedings that take place in the courts and at town halls. elpais.com

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Norovirus

Norovirus, sometimes known as the winter vomiting bug because it is is more common in winter, though can be caught any time of the year. The virus is highly contagious. It can affect people of all ages and causes vomiting and diarrhoea. There’s no specific cure for norovirus, so you have to let it run its course. It’s usually mild and shouldn’t last more than a couple of days. The period from when you’re infected

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to when you start to show symptoms (the incubation period) usually lasts between 12 and 48 hours. You may be infectious to other people during this time. Although having norovirus can be unpleasant, it’s not usually dangerous and most people make a full recovery within a couple of days without having to see their Doctor. The first sign of norovirus is usually suddenly feeling sick followed by forceful vomiting and watery diarrhoea. Some people may also have: • a raised temperature (over 38°C/100.4°F)

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• headaches • painful stomach cramps • aching limbs Symptoms usually appear one to two days after you become infected, but they can start sooner. The only way of diagnosing norovirus is to test a stool sample in a laboratory. However, this isn’t usually necessary because treatment is the same for all causes of stomach bugs. If you have a sudden episode of vomiting and diarrhoea, it’s likely you have norovirus. You can get norovirus more than once. The virus is always changing, which means your body is unable to build up resistance to it. If you have norovirus, follow the steps below to help ease your symptoms: • drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration • take paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains • if you feel like eating, eat foods that are easy to digest • stay at home – don’t go to see your Doctor because norovirus is contagious and there’s nothing your Doctor can do while you have it • contact your Doctor to seek advice if your symptoms last longer than a few

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days or if you already have a serious illness Extra care should be taken to prevent babies and small children who have diarrhoea and vomiting from dehydrating by giving them plenty of fluids. Babies and young children can still drink milk. Preventing Norovirus spreading. Norovirus is easily spread. If an infected person doesn’t wash their hands before handling food, they can pass the virus on to others. You can also catch it by touching contaminated surfaces or objects. Follow the measures below to help prevent the virus spreading. • wash your hands frequently • don’t share towels and flannels • disinfect surfaces that an infected person has touched Outbreaks of norovirus in public places, such as hospitals, nursing homes and schools, are common because the virus can survive for several days on surfaces or objects touched by an infected person. If you have norovirus, you may continue to be infectious for a short period after your symptoms stop. You should therefore avoid preparing food and direct contact with others for at least 48 hours after your symptoms disappear.

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SOL FEATURE

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OLDER men take heart. Hollywood superstar George Clooney has been crowned the Male Grooming Icon of 2014 - at the age of 53. Like wine, George Clooney seems to gotten better with age Second place went to former England footballer David PLEASE CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT MONICA ALGANARAZ: 695 355 381 Beckham, no stripling at 39. monica@centrophysis.net And James Bond Daniel Craig clinched third place Email: www.centrophysis.net just as his rugged good looks see him make a return EAST VALLEY (A7 Exit 529 Golf Course - Business Centre) as man-to-dream for 007 in the new film Spectre - at Very near Garrucha, Turre, Los Gallardos 46. Clooney, star of last year’s film The Monuments Mojacar-Vera, Albox Men, may be the oldest on the list but his suave, clean shaven look is setting OUR hair, BEAUTY & the standard for men MASSAGE THERAPISTS ARE everywhere. FULLY UK TRAINED The actor, who tied the Open 9 - 3pm Mon - Thurs. El Cucador knot with London-based human rights lawyer Then do it the Juice Plus way Amal Alamuddin, 36, in Our weight loss plan is affordable, Hair Treatments September took a third of effective, healthy and easy to follow. Our team is experienced & qualified to the the votes in the Superdrug highest standards on all hairdressing, colouring We provide on-line and personal support poll. and cutting techniques. to help you reach your goals. Beckham, husband of Call Teri: 619 467 295 Posh Spice Victoria, has beauty Treatments championed hair dye, For face & Body, Elimis Luxury Facials, Eye fake tan, tattoos and Treatments. Nail Treatments, Shellac Nail, Waxing. eyebrow threading over Eyebrow Shape - Eyelash Tint - Eyebrow Tint the years to achieve male Call Sandra: 661 858 949 icon status. Dermal Fillers & Botox Prince William, 30, not known to have a tattoo, For the next Clinic call: 647 379 878 came fourth in the survey of 2,000 people, with find us on Massages Pirates of the Caribbean Aromatherapy. Holistic. Reflexology. Juiceplus Almeria Wendy star Johnny Depp, 51, Call Melissa: 626 144 680 coming in at number five. We are a self-contained private suite of rooms on the right hand side of email : juiceplus_wendy@hotmail.com www.express.co.uk La Vida Bar, El Cucador

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Hello and welcome to CanDu Computer Bytes. Quite a while back we talked about internet TV, android boxes and the program that is generally used on them. For those who don’t remember or never read the article, shame on you :-), but it was the back end of May last year. The program that I talked about was called XBMC or XBox Media Centre. When I wrote the article The program was on version 13 codenamed ‘Gotham’ and was becoming the standard base for the Android TV boxes. When I started my Linux Laptop today, one of the many updates was for XBMC, although now it’s called Kodi? Surprisingly it simply overwrote the previous version and kept all my setting and options (this is a good thing). So, me being me and in the interests of trying to break it, I started testing it. Well under the ‘videos’ section, the first thing that I want to access is my UK TV and the best button to press is ‘F.T.V.’. Now F.T.V. has ‘FilmOn Demand’, ‘Fav Channels’, ‘UK TV LIVE’ and many, many more – even something for the (grand)kids. In fact, over Christmas and the New Year, this was what I used to watch ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ and surprisingly, it didn’t buffer over the entire period. I would suspect that had more to do with people buying new satellite dishes, pointing them to a different satellite or just going back to cold, wet, miserable Blighty for the Christmas period. I have to admit to being a little disappointed and at the same time elated! I was disappointed because there seems to be a number of faults that where not there in the previous version. For example, A film or tv program search didn’t provide the keyboard that it always has done and wouldn’t let me type into the search box! The only way I found around it was to use the ‘Advanced TV Show Search’. Why was I elated? There are few things that give a ‘Cracker’ (note: Not Hacker) a buzz is being able to break break or by-pass something that someone else has created,

and I made it fall over. This now means that I have to contact the creators of ‘Kodi’, tell them what I have found and how I got to the problem. Being one of these incurably curious people, I wondered if there might have been a fault in the installation, so I uninstalled the program and re-installed it. I installed it on my Window 7 computer and It still didn’t work properly. Despite using tricks learned through long years of experience and error I had to admit defeat. I did manage to find one that did seem to work and that was called ‘KodiBuntu’. It is based on a cut down version of Ubuntu Linux with Kodi installed. When I installed this version onto my computer is told me that it was a previous version called a ‘Release Candidate’ and I should update it. It worked for several hours before I decided to ‘update it’ and guess what! It stopped working again! Go figure. The upshot of this tail is to let you know that now isn’t the right time to update to ‘Kodi’ – the software formally known as XBMC. Just as soon ar they release a copy of the program that works properly I will let everyone know :-) So until that time I would like to wish everyone a belated Happy New Year and remind you all that I’m never too far away to resolve whatever problems that your computer throws at you. Tip of the Day: Don’t pick you nose in the car everyone can still see you! Learn the shortcut keys that window have provided for the past 20 years and make your job easier. If you can’t find them on the internet then contact me for a copy. I’m now off to Jack’s Bar in Albox for my Friday afternoon computer clinic!

LOST WITHOUT YOUR SMARTPHONE? HERE’S WHY... Do you feel like you’ve lost a limb when you accidentally leave your phone at home? Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that people who are separated from their smartphones can suffer from strong psychological and physiological effects. The study examined 40 smartphone users to find out how their cognition, anxiety and physiology were affected when they were denied the chance to answer their phone. The participants, who were under the impression that they were testing a new wireless blood pressure cuff, were asked to complete two word-search puzzles. After the first puzzle, some were told that their phone was interfering with the experiment, and it was placed at the opposite end of the room. During the second puzzle, the researchers rang the participants’ phones. Those who were unable to pick up the call were found to suffer from an increased heart rate and blood pressure, as well as feelings of anxiety and general ‘unpleasantness’. They also scored lower in the word-search puzzles than those who had not been separated from their phones. According to the team, young adults aged 18–24 send an average of 109.5 text messages per day, and check the phone’s screen 60 times a day. “Our findings suggest that iPhone separation can negatively impact performance on mental tasks,” says Russell Clayton, lead author of the study. “Additionally, the results from our study suggest that iPhones are capable of becoming an extension of ourselves such that when separated, we experience a lessening of ‘self’ and a negative physiological state.” Researchers have even coined a term for the fear of being separated from your smartphone - ‘nomophobia’ (a shortening of ‘no-mobile-phone phobia’). So an apple a day may keep the doctor away, but overusing your phone may bring him closer!

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

By The Grace of God Franco part II Generals Mola and Sanjurjo were instrumental in the original uprising against the Spanish Republic in 1936. Unfortunately for both of them they died in separate ‘accidental’ air crashes soon after. Luckily and entirely coincidentally Franco was the most senior officer left and was promoted to Generalisimo of the Nationalist Army and somewhat presumptuously as Head of State. The Civil War lasted almost 3 years, ending with victory for Franco on 1st April 1939. During the war up to 200,000 people were executed by both sides; the Republicans were no saints by any means being responsible for 40,000 of these but most were carried out by Franco’s forces often in acts of revenge. After the war ended another 20,000 were summarily executed, with others put into forced labour and concentration camps. Up to 200,000 people died in these camps over the next five years. Hundreds of thousands fled or were deported from Spain. Many unlucky enough to get to France were herded into concentration camps with no food or shelter. Later the survivors were sent

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back to Franco’s Spain and imprisoned in ‘purification’ camps. Once WWII started and the Vichy regime controlled southern France, Marshall Petain ordered the rounding up of any remaining Spanish Republican soldiers and sent them to Mauthausen concentration camp in Germany. 5000 died before the American Army liberated them in 1945. In fact when the Americans arrived the brave Republicans had already killed the guards, seized their weapons and were in charge of the camp. Although Franco secretly signed a treaty of friendship with Hitler in 1938; initially he declared Spain neutral at the beginning of WWII. In 1940 he changed this to ‘non- belligerent’ as he saw how fast Hitler had overrun northern Europe. This allowed German planes to use Spanish airstrips and its Navy to use Spanish ports especially Algeciras. Hitler and Franco talked about Spain joining the war but never agreed terms. Instead as revenge for Stalin’s support of the Republicans in the Civil War; Franco sent 18,000 soldiers to the Eastern Front to fight alongside the Germans

against the Russians. By 1942 the Allies had the upper hand and landed at Casablanca. Franco did another about turn, withdrew his forces from the East and declared Spain neutral. By 1944 Spain Franco moved again, becoming benevolently neutral (to the Allies) and a formal agreement was reached. Spain stopped supplying Germany with Tungsten for its armaments, closed the German Embassy in Tangiers (Morocco was under Spanish control then) and expelled all the German Spies. Allied planes were allowed to operate within Spain and in return the Allies propped up the Spanish economy with oil and other goods. Escaping POWs via France could now escape via Spain. In summer 1945 at the Potsdam conference; Stalin argued that Spain should be invaded to destroy Franco. Winston Churchill and Harry Truman resisted; in part as they feared a left wing Spanish Government would help Russia. Instead Spain was banned from joining the United Nations whilst Franco re-

mained in charge and Spain got no aid via the Marshall Plan which was rebuilding the rest of Europe. Franco shrugged his shoulders and got help from Argentina instead. Then he attacked the communists who he blamed for Spain’s isolation. As Russia got stronger in Eastern Europe, American pragmatism saw the advantage in keeping Franco sweet; his anti communist policy sat well with their early 1950s McCarthy inspired communist witch-hunt practices. Soon the UN embargo was lifted and America was supplying aid to Spain. By 1953 America was building military bases on Spanish soil and over the next few years $1.5bn in aid (worth $20bn today) was sent in aid. In 1955 Spain joined the UN. European countries were less forgiving and banned Spain from joining NATO. Not until Franco was long cold in the ground and a democratic Government was in power did Spain join NATO in 1982.

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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

New Wind Turbine That Looks Like A Tree Is Coming To Paris

One of the biggest criticisms against wind turbines is that they aren’t usually nice to look at, but that may be about to change thanks to the French company NewWind. Their new device, Tree Vent, is an array of vertical wind turbines that look a lot like a tree. Though the tree looks like a piece of modern art that would fit in at any urban area, it also provides a very important function. Each tree has a current power output of 3.1 kilowatts, which might not be able to power much on its own. However, using several of the trees together as landscape features in a park or along a roadside would make more of an impact to the homes and buildings nearby. The trees are 11 meters (36 ft) tall, and 8 meters (26 ft) in diameter at its widest point, which makes it about the same height as many urban trees. The white frame of the tree is made out of steel, and it can hold 72 turbines that sit vertically. This orientation cancels out noise, allowing the turbine to spin silently. Wind turbines are typically very tall in order to reach the altitude where the wind is stronger, but these vertical turbines are able to spin with wind blowing as low as 7 km/h (4.4 mph), making this twice as sensitive as traditional turbines. However, they are durable enough to withstand Category 3 winds, which can reach 178 - 208 km/h (111-129 mph). Each turbine “sheet,” called an

Aeroleaf, is constructed out of lightweight plastic. The plastic has been treated with a resin which protects it from weather conditions such as humidity and salt (for areas close to the sea). The turbines are wired in parallel so that if one stops working for whatever reason, the others will not be affected. Anxious to check one of these out? NewWind will be testing a tree in Paris’s Place de la Concorde between March 12 and May 12 of this year, allowing the public to see how the turbine functions in a normal setting. About 40 more units are due to be installed around the country in September. For those wanting a Tree Vent for themselves, you are going to have to wait a bit longer. They aren’t due to go into mass production until the summer of 2016 and will initially only be available in France and other proximal European countries. There is no word on when or if they plan to extend the product into the United States. The approximate price of each tree will be about €29,500 (US$35,000), though that price will hopefully decrease as production becomes less expensive and the technology is further developed. Source www.iflscience.com

Computer program ‘perfect at poker’

Scientists have created a computer program they say is the perfect poker player and never makes a mistake. The developers told Science journal

they had “solved” the two-player game Fixed-limit Heads-up Texas Hold ‘em.And the algorithm had a strategy so close to optimal “it can’t be beaten with statistical significance within a lifetime of human poker playing”. The poker-ace algorithm is also now available online for people to test, query and even play against. ‘Perfect information’ Since scientists first started to develop game-playing artificial intelligence, there have been a series of famous cases where computer algorithms developed strategies better than the very best

Microsoft condemns Google for revealing another Windows 8.1 security bug

Windows vulnerabilities and security concerns are nothing new, but the latest 8.1 User Profile Service exploit discovered could spark a serious corporate war. Google and Microsoft find themselves at odds again, this time disagreeing on bug disclosure timing. A contributor for the Google Security Research program going by the nickname of Forshaw brought the glitch

to Redmond’s attention on October 13 2014, filing it under medium for severity. As per Big G’s protocol, MS was given a 90-day deadline to issue a satisfactory fix before the confidential bug report would automatically go live for the whole world to see. In response, Microsoft confirmed it was aware of the problem, and initially estimated a universally working patch would be ready for primetime by February 2015. When informed there was no bending of the rules, and no possible way to extend the threemonth due date, the Windows 8.1

repairmen promised a fix for January. But Google wasn’t willing to wait a minute past the 90 days, and less than 24 hours ago, the issue’s description and details were posted. It didn’t take long for the search giant’s archnemesis to snap at the reveal, which they described as a “gotcha” moment rather than a matter of principle. Microsoft Security Response Center, Chris Betz, claims January 13, i.e. tomorrow, would have seen the vulnerability put to rest, regardless of whether Google released the sensitive information. And there’s no reason to suspect that’s not true, since January 13 is the month’s second Tuesday, also known as Patch Tuesday for its traditional bug-treating qualities. It’s hard to argue with Microsoft when accusing Google of putting its enterprise interests ahead of those of the customers, given the same mysterious “Forshaw” dug up and ultimately published a separate Windows 8.1 exploit on December 29. s for the specifics of the two bugs, they’re a little too technical and complicated to explain in a nutshell, so let’s just forget they even existed. As long as they’re both squashed by Wednesday, that is. If not, we may need to side with Google on this. digitaltrends.com

Google Translate to challenge Microsoft’s Skype Translator

human players. In 1997, for example, IBM Google has plans to add realsupercomputer Deep Blue defeated world chess champion Garry time automatic speech translation capabilities to its Translate tool in a move that would put it in direct competition with Microsoft’s Skype Translator. According to the New York Times, the additional functionality will be rolled out in Google Translate’s next update. Google had originally touted the service in 2010, but it appears it has taken the search giant longer than predicted to develop. In its current mobile and web app form, Google Translate is limited to automatically translating written text only. While the update will challenge Skype Translator, Microsoft’s product does still have the advantage of Kasparov. But these machine providing audio translations as well victories have been in what are as text-based ones. termed “perfect-information games” Google has seen more than 100 - where all players are informed about million downloads of its Translate everything that has occurred in the app on Android, and claims to have game before making a decision. 500 million active users of the tool This is not the case in poker, where per month. players do not know which cards Currently, Skype Translator only have been dealt to other players. offers English-Spanish translations This new poker-playing program has - two of the most spoken languages taught itself to overcome this. in the world - but support for more It has played trillions of hands of languages is planned for the future. poker and been designed to learn by For text messages sent via Skype, “regretting” and remembering every the service can instantly translate decision that does not lead to the them to and from 45 different languages. optimum outcome. Google Translate offers nearly Bbc.co.uk

double that, with the ability to translate 80 languages, including relatively obscure ones like Welsh. Indicating the search giant has a sense of humour, Google Translate also includes the ability to translate made-up languages such as Klingon and “Pirate”. Google Translate is built into its Chrome browser, which can translate the text on a webpage into a language of the user’s choice, while Microsoft’s Bing Translation engine is featured in social media platforms Twitter and Facebook, giving both services a massive base of users. Neither of the companies has detailed how they aim to address issues such as idioms and regional sayings that fail to translate directly into other languages. However, Google Translate uses machine learning, so it should theoretically deliver better results the more it is used. V3 contacted Google for more details on its plans for Translate, but the company has yet to reply. While the update to Google Translate is yet to be officially confirmed, Skype Translator is currently available for anybody to download. v3.co.uk

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

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LEGAL CORNER

WITH MICHAEL DAVIES , ABOGADO/SOLICITOR If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic, please e-mail info@daviessolicitors.com - www.daviessolicitors.com

Q. My wife and myself (71 and 68 ) live in Spain since 2006. We are both to the best of our knowledge tax residents. We have a house in joint names valued at approximately 180000 euro and savings of aprox. 40000. We would like to know how much inheritance tax my wife would have to pay if I deceased, and how much capital gains tax would we pay if we decided to sell. A. You are going to like the answers.

Inheritance tax: If you deceased, your wife would pay NO INHERITANCE TAX, as she would be entitled as resident of Andalucía to 175000 euro tax free, which is more than the value of the estate she would receive. Please note that the 175000 euro exemption in Andalucía, is an all or nothing exemption. If you are one cent over, you pay on all but the first 16000 euro. Each autonomous region of Spain has it´s own exemption rates, and the legislation applicable (and therefore the levels of exemption) will be the one of the autonomous region of Spain where the heir has been a resident for the larger part of the five years previous to the death. Believe it or not very often tax planning involves moving from one area of Spain to another. Incredible but true: A wife resident in Almería inheriting a net estate of 813000 euro from her husband would pay just under 200000 euro in Andalucia while if the same wife had been living in Madrid she would have paid 0 inheritance tax). Could the lady have avoided the tax. Yes,

but the tax planning would have required the family moved to Madrid. Capital gains tax: you will pay NO CAPITAL GAINS TAX because if you are over 65 years of age and are selling your main home (you can not claim this if you are a non resident), the sale is exempt of capital gains tax. Michael Davies. Abogado. Member 1748 of Almeria Law Society. Member 67228 of Madrid Law Society. Ex-Honorary British Consul.

CAMPING LOS GALLARDOS

MOBILE HOMES for sale or rent

NON-RESIDENT INCOME TAX. We are still receiving many enquiries about non-resident income tax. (What is it? /do we really have to pay it if we do not rent out our property? / What do you recommend we do if we have never paid it? ) To avoid any doubts: If you are non resident of Spain and own a property you must file a non resident income tax return every year even if you have never rented out the property. Please note that the tax office has no obligation of informing you of this. Do not confuse this tax with rates (IBI), which is a local tax and nothing to do with non-resident tax. If you have never paid it I recommend you approach a solicitor like ourselves to take care of putting things back into good order, before they claim it with surcharges or worse still consider that if you are not filing it you must be a tax resident and come after you for your world wide income and fining you for not filing a 720 declaration of worldwide assets obligatory for residents.

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

COMPLETLY RENOVATED TO A VERY HIGH STANDARD FULLY EQUIPPED ON SECURE SITE WITH BOWLING GREEN, BAR / RESTAURANT / SHOP / SWIMMING POOL

SUNDAY CARVERY 1-4 PM EXCELLENT ENTERTAINMENT

ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON! VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

PHONE SHIRLEY— 679 970 399

Buy-to-let borrowers back shorter-term fixes

Research from specialist broker Mortgages for Business showed that during the final quarter of 2014, the proportion of property investors favouring two-year fixed rates nearly doubled since the start of last year, up to 23 per cent from 12 per cent in Q1. By contrast there was a decline in the proportion of landlords who would choose longer term fixed rates, with just 15 per cent preferring three-year fixed rate products, down from 21 per cent. This is despite separate figures this week showing the number of longer-term fixes of 10 years is increasing rapidly, with data from Moneyfacts revealing there are now 77 mortgages on the market with a rate fixed for a decade, compared to just eight in January 2014. David Whittaker, managing director at Mortgages for Business, said that these “ultra-competitive” mortgage rates will probably continue for some time due to increasing predictions of virtually zero inflation in the UK and eurozone, plus a cooling rate of economic growth. “That doesn’t mean there’s no room for caution. Even in such an exceptional situation, rates are still expected to rise in due time. However, landlords now seem willing to take the chance that won’t happen for at least a couple of years. “However, we maintain our recommendation to fix for longer, particularly where the pricing difference between three and five year fixed rates is narrow.” Elsewgere, figures showed remortgaging was the strongest sector of last year’s valuation market, with Connells Survey and Valuation predicting this will continue

into this year. December finished the year with 9 per cent year-on-year growth in valuations activity, according to the firm, although on a monthly basis total valuations dropped 17 per cent. John Bagshaw, corporate services director at Connells, explained that in recent months the housing market has bounced back despite fears of a cooling market in the autumn. “This latest increase in valuations activity does contrast with more rapid expansion recorded earlier in 2014; but a more balanced and sustainable pick-up bodes well for 2015.” Remortgaging valuations on a monthly basis only fell 7 per cent, however there was a 25 per cent surge year-on-year to December 2014. Mr Bagshaw said that remortgaging has wind in its sales as we enter 2015. “With the bank rate set to remain at its historic low for some time, lenders will probably be able to offer even more competitive rates very soon.” First-time buyer activity also saw significant annual growth, with the number of valuations for first time buyers increasing by 9 per cent on an annual basis, despite the fact that valuations dropped by 16 per cent compared to the previous month. By contrast, the buy-to-let sector of the market saw one of the biggest falls in activity both on a monthly and annual basis. Compared to November, activity fell 33 per cent, while on an annual basis it was down 9 per cent. ftadviser.com

After a successful exhibition in Belguim, we are looking for legal properties for our clients.

Arboleas, Nice villa with 2.5 bed & 1 bath and in walking distance to 3 villages !! The price is only 125.000€

Albox, Very nice villa, 2 bed & 2 bath spacious plot of 2.699m² & close to the town. The price is only 137.000€

Arboleas, quality villa with 3 bed & 2 bath private pool and not far from the village The price is only 134.950€

Limaria, very nice villa with 3 bed & 2 bath private pool and roof terrace The price is only 149,000€

Willemsens Karel

web: www.immo-carlos.com

email: info@immo-carlos.com

Tel: 950 090 875 – Mob: 648 505 938

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

18 SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015 SOL PROPERTY FEATURE

Bedar, 04288 (next to Miramar Restaurant)

Tel: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466

Olive

Email: info@olivehouse-es.com

www.olivehouse-es.com

Monday - Friday 10am - 3.30pm

Sales office now open in Bedar

OLV786

Antas (Los Chopos)

This quaint 1 bedroom Cortijo set in lovely surroundings and has fabulous grounds of 4000m2. This property is immaculate and has been finished to a high standard. There is also a large storeroom of 30m2 that could be converted for extra accommodation.

99.950€

Lubrin

OLV843

This fabulous 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom villa is set in a beautiful valley just a 5 minute drive from the pretty market town of Lubrin. The property boasts 5000m2 of land and a 10x5m pool with great views all around.

114.950 €

...it’s all in the detail Bedar

OLV833

This wonderfully renovated 3 bedroom village house is located in the beautiful and picturesque village of Bedar, this unique property boasts 3 bedrooms, a wonderful roof terrace and a charming courtyard garden with terraces and fruit trees.

COMPLETE HOLIDAY HOLIDAY CARE CARE COMPLETE MOJACAR PLAYA

RENTALS - SALES -MANAGEMENT - MAINTENANCE

We urgently need more properties for sale & rental for waiting clients

Ref: SP/LS - Beautiful, furnished 2 bed apart with aircon, private parking, pool & gardens. Terrace, mountain views, spacious lounge/diner with UK satellite channels.

Ref. OA/RJ – Stunning 3 bed, 2,5 bath, 130 m2, duplex in renowned complex Oasis del Mar 1, terraces & solarium with sea views, fantastic pools/gardens, private parking, a/c.

Ref. CB/SK - Beautiful, modern, 3 bed, 2 bath villa with garage & large terrace with Jacuzzi with outstanding panoramic views of Mojácar Playa beach and mountains.

Ref. ALB/MB/14 - Beautiful & modern, 2 bed, 2 bath apart. Private com pool, terr with sea views, air con, private parking space.

MOJACAR - €99,950

MOJACAR – REDUCED - €249,950

169.950 €

Vera

OLV814

A rare opportunity to purchase a large and established detached property just minutes from major road links and 2 minutes from the historical town of Vera. The property boasts 3/4 bedrooms beautiful gardens and private pool.

365,000 €

MOJACAR PLAYA - €149,950 Mojácar REDUCED- €275,000 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

Your Belgian estate agent at the coast ! API-SJ0110 229000€ Villa SAN JUAN Chalet on a plot of 966 sqm 3 bedrooms & 1 bathroom reformed Sea views & mountain views Tropical garden Removable pool Garage

API-M0118 119950€ MOJACAR 2 bedrooms & 1 bathroom 193 sqm plot Spacious terraces & roof terrace with sea views Aircon in master bedroom Chimney NO community fees 700 m to the beach API-V0152 69900€ VERA PLAYA 1 bedroom & 1 bathroom Terrace with garden views Fully furnished aircon Comunal parking & pool 100 m from the beach In the center of the naturist area

www.almeriapropertyinvestments.com

API-V0163 169000€ VERA PLAYA 3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms Terrace of 135 sqm & roof terrace Semi basement floor of 151 sqm incl double garage outdoor pool close to Mercadona & bilingual school

sol

Looking for coastal properties to sell API-A0100 155000€ ANTAS townhouse (4bed/3bath) on a 247 sqm plot Seperate 3 bed & 2 bath apartment Terraces, private garden Garage & Private pool 15 min to the beach HUGE HOUSE

ann@almeriapropertyinvestments.com

RONDA DE LAS BUGANVILLAS nº 42 (next to Luces & Bar Cactus) ANN 666 260 792

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

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SOL PROPERTY FEATURE

Almeria Property Agency

Sales & lettings inmobiliaria tlf: +34 850 993 099 Mob: +34 606 281 865 info@almeriapropertyagency.com

www.almeriapropertyagency.com Office located next to Cajamar bank in Arboleas village

APA1495

Area: Arboleas

A pristine modern villa on a 653m2 corner plot in a popular urbanization located a short drive from Arboleas. On entering this detached villa you go into a hallway that leads to a bright and airy lounge with feature fireplace and A/C, a fully equipped kitchen including all white goods, 3 double beds, the master has fitted wardrobes, A/C, an en-suite shower room and patio doors out to the mature gardens. There is also a good sized family bathroom plus an 8m by 4m kidney shaped pool with a gazebo.

Price: 164.950€

APA1413

Area: Arboleas

A Lakes Vega built 3 bedroom villa, a short drive from Arboleas village in the established hamlet of El Chopo, the property includes 2 large double bedrooms, one with en-suite plus an extra bedroom currently being used as an office. One family bathroom leading onto large hallway. The property has a unique feature: a circular lounge on two levels with open plan kitchen-living area, including feature log burner. he villa is situated on a large plot with an 8m by 4m swimming pool to the rear of the property.

Price: 134.950€

APA1480

Area: Garrucha

A 2 beds, 1 bath apartment located in thriving seaside town of Garrucha in Almeria, 200 meters from beaches &harbour of Garrucha. It is south east facing and has a small terrace where you can sit & have breakfast and lunch in the Almeria sunshine. Inside you will find a spacious living room come dining room, fully fitted kitchen incl white good, 2 beds & bathroom. Main bedroom also has a A/C, there is a private communal swimming pool & garden, plus each apartment has underground car parking

Price: 75.000€

APA1509

Area: Arboleas

Spacious detached villa in popular urbanization of El Prado, walking distance of a shop, bar & restaurant in hamlet of La Cinta. Property has a build size of 106.13m3 set on a 625m2 plot of land that has been well designed to offer off road parking, established gardens & a private terraced patio to the rear of the property where the 8m x 4m swimming pool is located. Fully equipped kitchen with utility, lounge with pellet burner, entrance hall & 3 double beds, the master with en-suite and a family bathroom.

Properties Needed

Price: 157.500€

APA1410

Price: 159.950€

APA1502

No 3 Plaza Constitucion, Open Monday- Friday 10am to 5pm Saturdays 10am to 2pm

Area: Arboleas

Pristine detached villa in the Los Requenas established urbanization a short drive from Arboleas village. Includes large drive, car port, casita, store room, private 8m by 4m swimming pool, fully ducted air-conditioning, Internet, water softener, fly screens and satellite TV. Inside you will find a entrance hall, spacious lounge with log burner, fully equipped kitchen and utility, 3 double bedrooms, the master with en-suite shower room plus a family bathroom. A must see property at a very realistic price.

Price: 159.950€

I f you are selling a fully legal property we offer a no sale no fee 3% commission rate with no marketing fees at all. • Rental villas with pools in the Arboleas area wanted for long term rental. •

Area: Arboleas

A 123m2 villa set on a large 900m2 plot of land only 10 minutes from amenities, on a well maintained urbanization with mountain views in Limaria. The property has a large porch, open plan kitchen including white goods, dining room, living room with wood burning fire and A/C, 3 double beds, master with an en-suite &a family bathroom. It has a well maintained garden with plenty of patio area & space to relax in the wonderful Spanish sun shine. Plus an 8m by 4m swimming pool , a shed, and a car port.

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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

property group

Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria

Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563

www.veritashomes.co.uk info@veritashomes.co.uk You can find us on Mojácar Playa

€79,950

3 bed / 2 bath Apartment with nice sea views in Marina de la Torre. Front covered terrace. Fully furnished. Ref. 1559

Mojácar Playa

€115,000

Beautiful sea facing 2 bed / 2 bath Apartment with private parking. Terraces of 25 m² & 6 m². Fully furnished. Ref.1595

Mojácar Playa

€130,000

2 bed / 2 bath south facing Apartment with large terrace & beautiful sea views within 300 m from promenade. Lockup garage. Ref.1612

Mojácar playa

€155,000

Valle del Este

€85,000

Immaculate 2 bed/ 2bath fully furn townhouse, front private garden, patio & roof terrace. Parking place. Communal pool. Ref.1555

Cantoria

€110,000

Charming 4 bed / 2 bath Villa with pool and garden on walled plot of 2.620 m² on tranquil setting near village. Ref.1517

DUE TO INCREASE IN DEMAND WE URGENTLY NEED PROPERTIES IN MOJÁCAR, GARRUCHA, VERA AND TURRE. CALL US NOW ON 950 472 430 O 610 053 563

FREE VALUATION Mojácar playa

€199,950

Mojácar playa

€225,000

2 bed / 2 bath Apartment, large terrace, store room & under parking. Nice community with lift, pool & gardens nr promenade. Ref. 1556

3 bed / 3 bath semi detached Villa with sea views on small community with pool near amenities. Terraces & solarium. Ref.1137

3 bed / 2 bath Villa on plot of 500 m² within 200 meters to beach & amenities. Terraces &car port. Ref.1560

Mojácar playa

vera

Mojácar Playa

€275,000

3 bed / 2 bath newly renovated Villa with pool . Plot of 246 m² within 1 min to beach. Air con. Roof terrace with sea views. Ref.1610

€344,950

Well designed Villa with pool and garage on fully fenced plot of 10.000 m² near village. Many extras. Ref.1010

Mojácar playa

€112,000

3 bed / 1 bath Apartment with private parking, store room & large terrace with partial sea views near promenade. Ref.1609

Vera playa

€115,000

Ready to move into. Fully furnished 2 bed / 1 bath Apartment with sea views. Terrace & private parking. Communal pool. Ref.1597

San Juan

€130,000

2 bed / 2,5 bath Apartment with a large terrace with sea views & lockup garage in Beverly Hills complex. Pool & tennis. Ref.1546

vera

€240,000

Opportunity! 3 bed / 2 bath Villa +1 bed / 1 bath Annex. Plot of 5.851 m². Few mins to town. Landscaped gardens & olive grove. Ref.1200

€445,000

High standard! Amazing 3 bed / 4 bath Villa with pool & garage on plot of 1.057m². Panoramic sea views. Many extras. Ref.1611

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

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

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SOL PROPERTY FEATURE

Property Sales and Relocation Specialists

Properties required both coastal and inland. We do not charge any commission up front!

Our promise is to negotiate a low and fair commission to be paid ONLY when the job is actually done. If you have a legal property for sale that you would like to list with us or would like a free no obligation valuation please contact us on the details below for more informaion. Please call and speak to Simon or Tim to see how we can get your property sold.

FEATURED PROP - REF ARB3VRJ01 - €159,950

Immaculate 3 Bed 3 Bath Villa of 154m2, 602m2 Plot, located 5-6 minutes from Arboleas, 8 x 4m Private Pool, private aspect, air-con and upgraded kitchen. A simply superb high quality property in a fantastic location near Arboleas village.

REF: RORIA4C01 REDUCED to just €129,000 Fullyreformed3bed1bathfarmhousehouse with2bedannexeon22,000m2oflandin RambladeOria.Lovelysettingandviews, detachedgarage,fullofcharacterthroughout andtheoriginalhouseisover100yearsold.

REF: ARB3VC10 REDUCED to €149,950 3bed2bathvillajustoutsideArboleasvillage withan8x4metrepool,fullywalledandgated plotwithprivateaspect,airconinallrooms, awnings,coveredterrace,detachedcasita, and a 660m2 plot.

REF AGU3V01 - Price €199,950 3bed3bathdetachedvillaof183m2buildandaplot of2000m2ontheoutskirtsofAguilas.Justa10min drivefromthebeachfront.Superbmountainviews, 10mx5mprivatepool,largegarage,air-con,long coveredporchesandadetachedcasitastore.A bargain at this now reduced price!

REF GAL3VJ05 - Price €114,950 Asemidetached3bed2bathbungalowinLos Gallardoswithahugeroofterrace.Abargain homewithcornerplot&privategarden, communalpool,air-con,undergroundparking, flyfreediningareaandamazingmountain views. A must view property

REF PAM3V07: – Price €169,950 Alarge4bed4bath,165m2buildandaplot of2635m2detachedvillanearPartaloawith simplystunningviews.Includesadetached garage,8x4mprivatepool,extendedterraces, twocoveredporches,fullair-conandmuch more.Alovelyhomewithcommandingviews.

REF: ARB3VGL04 - €182,950 Astunning3bed3bathdetachedvillaclose tothevillagecentreofArboleas.Includesa self-contained1bed1bathdetachedguest annexe,garage,privatepoolwithraisedseating area,coveredterracewithdiningareaand8seat Jacuzzi,1425m2plotwithfruitorchard,air-conetc.

REF: GAL3T10 - €123,950 A large andextremelywellpresented3bed3bath villagehomeinthecentreofLosGallardoswith front&rearterracesandroofterracemountain &villageviews.Fullair-con,modernfullyfitted kitchen,underbuildgarage,communalpool andasuperblocationinthevillagecentre.

REF CAN4TP01 - €84,950 Ahuge140m2villagehomejustoutside Arboleaswithgreatruralviewsandagenerous gardenof700m2.Thehomehas4bedrooms and2bathroomsandissetinasmallSpanish hamletgivingyouatruetasteofSpain.Ahuge bargainruralpropertyandhastobeseen.

REF ANT7T01 - €154,950 Thisisa7bed5bathvillagehomeinAntasthat hasfantasticB&Bpossibilities.Inessenceyou havealarge4bed3bathtownhousewitha separate3bed2bathapartmentunderneathwith garden&privatepool.Justreducedandastealat thisnewprice.Just15minutestothebeaches.

REF MOJ2A12 - €114,950 Frontline2bed1bathapartmentinMojacar. frontterrace&solarium,modernkitchen,open fireplace,100mfromthebeach,greatsea views. Air-con and private parking. NO COMMUNAL CHARGE! A must view bargain property!

REF ALB3V08 - € 174,950 AlargedetachedvillaontheoutskirtsofAlbox withmagnificentviewsoverAlmondgroves andlotsofprivacy.Plotof2500m2andabuild of154m2.Includesalargegarage,private pool,solarium,casitastore,hugedayroom, air-con etc. An impressive home!

REF ARB4VGT01 - €199,950 A4bed2bathdetachedvillanearArboleas village.Thisisastrikingpropertyandpresentedin showhomecondition.Includesa10mx5mpool, solarium,conservatory,casita,air-con,luxury kitchen,carport,watersoftener,superviewsetc. Thisisaveryhighqualityhomeineveryway.

For more information, property viewings or no obligation valuations please call 950 469 592 mobile 697 640 681 email info@colespain.com or go to www.colespain.com

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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

SOL PROPERTY FEATURE

Looking to sell? We can sell your property for you. Properties needed in all areas

API Bancario Bank Property Agent

Tel + 34 637 309 092 - www.indalocasas.es info@indalocasas.es Palomares

Mojacar

€169,500

A 90m², 3 bed, end duplex with a large garden, situated just 300 meters from the beach in Mojácar. Downstairs there is a large open plan lounge-dinner with A/C, a fitted kitchen, and a toilet with shower. Upstairs it has 3 bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, a bathroom and 2 terraces. There is a front porch, and an enclosed rear patio leading out to an open rear patio. There is approx. 300 m² of private fenced garden. There is the possibility of a large basement. The urbanization has well-kept gardens with tennis courts and two pools. The property has private parking.

€59,000

Albox

€36,500

A large, 173 m² village house, for restoration, situated in a small hamlet, 5 minutes from town. The property has an entrance hall, a large lounge, a kitchen with an open fireplace, 1 bedroom, a bathroom and sitting room with open fireplace downstairs. Upstairs there is 1 very large room and 2 smaller rooms. There is a large enclosed rear patio and a small side garden. Mains electricity and water are easily re-connected.

Fabulous 65 m², ground floor, 2-bed apartment situated just 800 metres from the beach. The apartments have 2 double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, 2 bathrooms (one being en-suite), a lounge-dining room, an open style kitchen and a large front terrace with nice sea views, an inner courtyard, A/C preinstalled, a private underground parking place and a large storage room included in the price. This very nice, gated community only has 14 apartments and has nice communal pool. It is located just 800 metres from the beach and close to the village centre.

Arboleas

€155,000

A 90 m², 3 bed detached chalet set on a 880 m² plot with a pool situated just a few minutes from the village and 25 min from the coast and various golf courses. The property has a lovely arched front porch, an entrance hall, a large lounge-diner with a gas “Living Flame” fireplace, a fully fitted kitchen with white goods, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, (the master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom). The property has A/C in the lounge and 2 bedrooms. The plot is completely fenced and gated and there is an 8 x 4 “Roman Head” swimming pool, a decent sized store room and the gardens are well established with trees and bushes.

Tel + 34 637 309 092 - www.indalocasas.es - info@indalocasas.es

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

www.soltimes.com

WANTED - 2 / 3 / 4 BED VILLAS & COUNTRY PROPERTIES IN THE HUERCAL -OVERA, ZURGENA, LA ALFOQUIA & TABERNO AREAS FOR OUR MANY DUTCH & BELGIAN CLIENTS.

READY FOR A BUSY 2015!

Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele & Steve would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and we look forward to selling your properties.

HERE ARE JUST SOME OF OUR RECENT PROPERTY SALES

SOLD

IN DECEMBER

VH623 €155,000 SOLD Urcal (Huercal-Overa)

SOLD

OFFER

UNDER NOVEMBER

SOLD

VH584 €65,000 UNDER OFFER La Alfoquia

ovEMBER

IN n

VH710 €39,000 SOLD Las Norias (Huercal-Overa)

OFFER

UNDER NOVEMBER VH538 €169,000 Los Carasoles (Zurgena)

OFFER

IN DECEMBER

VH647 €99,000 SOLD La Alfoquia

OFFER

VH525 €119,000 UNDER OFFER Huercal-Overa Countryside

VH690 €199,000 UNDER OFFER Huercal-Overa Countryside

VH688 €179,950 Cucador (Zurgena)

UNDER NOVEMBER

VH736 €115,000 UNDER OFFER Urcal (Huercal-Overa)

UNDER NOVEMBER

OFFER UNDER EMBER dec

OFFER

OFFER er UNDER emb v o n

SOLD

VH265 €115,000 Urcal (Huercal-Overa)

VH700 €69,950 UNDER OFFER Las Norias (Huercal-Overa)

ovEMBER IN n

SOLD

IN DECEMBER

VH668 €139,950 Cucador (Zurgena)

Please call 0034 950 616 827 / 0034 678 002 006 / 0034 667 891 741 or email: info@vosshomesspain.com

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Office: 155a Carrerera Estacion, Huecal-Overa. 1km off the A7 motorway at exit 553. 100metres from Lidl.

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Setting up your own business if your over 50 is totally achievable and, often, a very good thing! More people than ever before are setting up a business past the age of 50 – in fact over-50s make up 42% of the number of self-employed people working in the UK. Not only that but they’re good at it. Whether you’re unemployed, facing redundancy or just looking to become your own boss, there is help out there to start up your business. In fact your 50s might be the perfect time to set up a business – whereas only 28% of businesses set up by young entrepreneurs last more than five years, over 70% of businesses set up by over 50s last! FIND US In Longo’s Courtyard Shop: 950 104 345 or Maintenance: 637 582 696 Starting a business when you’re over 50 will mean you’re able to draw on all your experience and skills that you have learnt and focus it into your business. All aspects of P&D However, being self-employed isn’t easy Interior & Exterior – you have to be self-disciplined and Gates, Rejas & Boundary Walls organised, and remember, you won’t get paid if you’re off sick! But if that doesn’t put you off then great, Free Quotations because many people find being selfjohn.colbert@hotmail.co.uk employed liberating and motivating. Tel: 662 597 596 moneymagpie.com

POOL SHOP

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selecciones John The Painter NEW STOCK ARRIVING DAILY ikea runs starting febuary call in to place your order

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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

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www.soltimes.com

viewpoint The Pool Competition Dog v Cats

The elders of Alqueria had thought long and hard about the disruptive, expensive and exhausting barrio rivalry and in particular, how to end it. It doesn’t require a vast intellect or expansive imagination to realise that any scheme proposed by the elders would be inept, inane and totally ineffectual, they didn’t disappoint. They were to hold a pool tournament. Believing that the spirit of sportsmanship and friendly competition would somehow bring about a spontaneous and unprecedented change in the mass psyche of the villagers. This reasoning was of course fundamentally flawed but that hadn’t stopped the implementation of similar schemes in the past. Preparations were duly started. The venue was to be the function room of the Bar La Casa Devante. The contestants were to be made up of four teams, one male and one female from each of the two barrios. The passive sexism of the organisers came to the fore and the ladies’ matches were set to go ahead first. The thinking being that they would be an anticlimax to the supposedly more skilful rounds played later by the men. All went well, that is until the first ball was struck. It was Manuela’s blow for the Hill People. Whether she was conscious of her actions isn’t clear however from past experiences one assumes she was. Just why she found it necessary to lean so far over the table in a dress completely unfit for the purpose is perhaps not a great mystery. For the aficionado of pool the reason for her caressing the cue in such a sensual manner might not have been appreciated. It was however appreciated

by the men-folk of Alqueria. The sound of the balls being driven home by Manuela’s skilful use of the cue was too much for some causing them to flee the hall shaking, muttering and sobbing. Unfortunately the powers that be didn’t take into account the extreme emotions felt by one section of the community when the other starts to have lustful thoughts about their women folk. If anyone is going to inspire lustful thoughts then it is Manuela. A misguided but well directed grab for Manuela’s nether regions signalled the end of peaceful competition and the start of hostilities. Pool balls flew with remarkable accuracy flooring belligerent after belligerent. The ladies fenced with cues, parrying and lunging as they attempted to force the coup de grâce. It was a scene of complete chaos and continued until exhaustion, unconsciousness or intoxication laid the assailants low. Manuela alone remained standing and surveyed her handiwork with satisfaction.

New Year Revolution

Now here’s a thing. I’ve decided to be flippant; not just for a day, or a week, or even a month. No. This whole new year of 2015 will be devoted to flippancy. When did I decide on such an act of such outrageous devotion? Well about ten minutes ago. I suddenly felt . . . flippant. And that’s what’s prompted me to indulge in a whole year of it. I’m already excited at the prospect and importantly, starting to plan delicious moments of flippancy. Rather like the Chinese devote a year to an animal, I shall do the same for my own chosen cause – how flippant. I was about to start this sentence by saying, ‘But to be serious for a moment, what brought me to

this brave conclusion?’ No need to explain, I’ve got twelve months of flippancy ahead of me – Da, da! No need, no need. ‘Yes but . . . ,’ I hear my sensible side saying, ‘Slow down a minute.’ Well sorry sensible side, I don’t have to qualify what I’m doing, or thinking, or planning to do or think. You, my sensible companion for most of my life are out of a job. Redundant. Side (excuse the pun) lined. Put out to grass. No longer required. Ha! Right, that’s my sensible side sorted . . . Easy. But hang on. Who’s this creeping into the metaphorical picture? Oh Lord, it’s nagging doubt. Nagging doubt is the more worrisome cousin of my sensible side. My sensible side just presents

I was sitting at the laptop in the kitchen. The kitchen door was wide open, and the sun was streaming through, warming the whole house and creating a patch of pure hedonism on the doormat just inside the kitchen door. In this prize spot on the doormat The Queen of Darkness, Sayyida al Hurra, was reclining regally, the sun’s rays glinting off her jet black fur. Lucy, the Dog That Is Not Ours, arrived from the living room, passed through the kitchen, and came to a dead halt in front of the doormat. ‘Oi, Cat.’ she said. ‘I want to sit there.’ The Queen gave no outward sign of having heard her. ‘Oi Cat.’ Lucy repeated. ‘Are you deaf? Get up, I want to sit there.’ The Queen languorously turned her head, opened her almond eyes and favoured Lucy with an imperious citrus green scrutiny. ‘Don’t be ridiculous.’ she said, and twitched her tail. ‘It’s my mat.’ Lucy stamped her front feet, to emphasise the point. ‘And now it’s mine.’ Sayyida yawned and stretched sumptuously. ‘It’s my mat because I was here first. It’s always been my mat.’ ‘And today I was here first. Therefore it’s my mat.’ Lucy looked at me for support. I became completely engrossed in the laptop. This was not my argument. ‘It’s my mat, and always has been. I was here ages before you and that

the facts in a clear and succinct manner and then goes away, leaving me to make the decisions; I could live with that. What you see is what you get mentality. I knew where I stood with my sensible side. Nagging doubt on the other hand operates in a different way. It creeps around in the shadows of my sub-conscience, slipping wily, cunning, crafty little thoughts into my mind without me realising where they came from. Yes, nagging doubt is a nasty customer and one to be wary of. But hang on, get a grip Paul, this is your year. Your chosen name for this year is Flippant, so who cares about nagging doubt, or sensible side or any of the other hundred and one hang-ups that rule my life. Do what it says on the tin. Be flippant. But wait a minute . . . Ha, fooled you there, that was

By Jos Biggs

josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk little upstart of a kitten arrived. It’s my mat, now get off it - it’s not fair, you cats think you rule the place.’ ‘Not think, my dear deluded dog. We know. And I’ll trouble you not to call my son a little upstart.’ ‘Whatever. Now are you going to move, or am I going to have to make you move?’ Sayyida stood up. ‘We both know you won’t do that! You’ll be in trouble if you do.’ ‘But’ she added after a pause, ‘If you are not going to go away, and as it is so tedious talking to a dog, I think I will seek a quieter spot in the sun, where I can meditate without interruption from a lower life form.’ With that she stalked off, all dignity and a waving tail. Lucy snuggled down on the mat and looked up at me, grinning from ear to ear. ‘Got my mat. It is my mat, I was here first.’ ‘Actually’ I said, ‘As I bought and paid for it, technically it’s my mat. But you may sit on it.’

my little joke, I was being flippant. Testing the water, getting a feel for my forthcoming year of irreverence, of cheekiness and impertinence. Giving up smoking, or drinking or chocolate or any of those annual declarations of willpower are for the feint hearted, the light weight new year resolution makers. I have more serious thoughts on my mind. I’m not giving anything up, instead I’m taking something up. And already I’m beginning to feel the pressure of sensibility and doubt, uncertainty and hesitation, lift from my shoulders in a joyous release of new found flippancy. What a year it promises to be. By – Paul Martin

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

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

SOL PUZZLE PAGE

To advertise in this space

Contact our sales advisors on 950 121 936 or email: sales@soltimes.com

wordsearch

Capital Cities of Europe

Find and circle all of the European capital cities that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a secret message.

5. At what other sport did cricketer WG. Grace Captain England?.............. 6. Who led Sweden to its first Davis cup victory in 1975?................................ 7. Why did Lester Pigget never ride the same horse in two consecutive Derbys?.............................

easy SUDOKU

wordsearch answer

MONACO MOSCOW NICOSIA OSLO PARIS PRAGUE REYKJAVIK RIGA ROME SAN MARINO SARAJEVO SKOPJE SOFIA

STOCKHOLM TALLINN TBILISI TIRANE VADUZ VALLETTA VATICAN CITY

8. How many inches from the ground are the bails of a wicket?........................... 9. Who was world heavyweight boxing champion from 1937 to 1949?................................ 10. Why didn’t Arkle go to stud? ...............................

Answers

VIENNA VILNIUS WARSAW YEREVAN ZAGREB

squiggle SUDOKU

CARDIFF CHISINAU COPENHAGEN DUBLIN EDINBURGH HELSINKI KIEV LISBON LJUBLJANA LONDON LUXEMBOURG MADRID MINSK

standard SUDOKU

AMSTERDAM ANDORRALAVELLA ANKARA ATHENS BAKU BELFAST BELGRADE BERLIN BERN BRATISLAVA BRUSSELS BUCHAREST BUDAPEST

THE MOST POPULOUS CITY IN EUROPE IS MOSCOW WHICH HAS OVER EIGHT MILLION PEOPLE

9. 1991

4. Alcoholic Drinks

8. Ordinary Boys

3. Emma Hamilton

7. Shackletons

2. Andre Michelin

6. Bernard Lee

1. Tsar CRYPTIC crossword

4. How many players are there in a rugby league side?.................................

7. Horses only run in

10. 67 CROSSWORD

3. Who, at 18, became the youngest player to win the world amateur snooker title?.................................

the Derby once

5. Sade

SOLUTIONS

2. Who did the New York cosmos buy for $4.5 million?.............................

8. 28

Brain Teasers Answers

1. Who was the controversial bodyline bowler of the 1930s?.........

9. Joe Louis

1. Ivan the Terrible was crowned today in 1547; he was the first Russian ruler to assume which title?.................................. 2. Tyres, hotel guides and culinary excellence are linked to which French industrialist, who was born today in 1853?....................................................... 3. The mistress of Lord Nelson died today in 1815, who was she?.............................. 4. The 18th amendment to the US constitution came into effect today in 1920, outlawing the manufacture, transportation and sale of what?.............. 5. Your Love is King, Smooth Operator and Sweetest Taboo were all hits for which singer, who was born today in 1959?........ 6. Which actor, who died today in 1981, played M in eleven James Bond films?...... 7. Whose expedition found the magnetic South Pole on this day in 1909?................ 8. 33 today, Preston is the singer with which British band?.................................. 9. The first Gulf War began today in which year?........................................................ 10. How old is former world snooker champion Cliff Thorburn today?................

soltimes sport quiz

10. He was gelded

soltimes quiz 16th january

SolPUZZLES

1. Harold Larwood 2. Pele 3. Jimmy White 4. 13 5. Bowls 6. Bjorn Borg

soltimes trivia Language

It has been estimated that the number of actively spoken languages in the world today is about 6,000........................................................................... There is no word that rhymes with orange................ Pinocchio is Italian for “pine head.”.......................... The most common letters in English are R S T L N E.. There is no word that rhymes with purple................. Did you know that the word “typewriter” is the longest word in the English Language that can be spelled with the the top of the keyboard?................. You speak about 4,800 words a day..........................

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

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SOL PUZZLE PAGE online Booking Now Available!

Specialist in group travel. Visit our website or call us direct to find out what excursions we have going from your area.

Across 2. Glee (5) 4. Cognition (9) 6. Be earlier in time (7) 7. Happen (5) 9. Contrary (8) 11. Set apart (8) 13. Compare (5) 14. Make believe (7) 16. Nostalgic feeling (9)

Down 1. Ambled (8) 2. Large deer (5) 3. Extremely ugly (7) 4. Souvenirs (9) 5. Of the highest quality (9) 6. Student (5) 8. Graded (5) 10. Occupiers paying rent (7) 12. Eye specialist (8) 15. Foe (5)

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

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

standard

easy

squiggle

ACROSS 1 Dialect in Guam - and a ringed part (8) 5 Young animal I initially carried like a box (5) 8 Stretch is hot at first, from Barcelona perhaps (7) 9 Mum sang badly for large bottles (7) 11 Handing over half of debt, before unrecorded call (10) 12 Run head of finance down (4) 13 Starboard? Correct! (5) 14 What a ghost might be doing searching for round African leader (8) 16 Get car without a loan for almanac (8) 18 British leader employs vehicles (5) 20 Child with good start for Dynasty (4) 22 Middleman owes me change thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing! (7) 24 See one giving evidence? (7) 25 Implored little Edward to go after new pedal (7) 26 Substances that could be noble (5) 27 Container etc, coming back outside as placed (8)

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28 SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

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10 Amazing facts Parsnip about Spanish food & cuisine

soup with steamed clams Ingredients

Spanish food is one of the best cuisines around the world. Discover 10 of the most amazing and curious facts about the Spanish cuisine and gastronomy. Top 10 food facts of Spain: Spain with a 44 % of market share is by far the most important producer of olive oil in the world. This is more than twice the Italian production and four times Greek production! Spain is the number one in terms of area covered by vineyards. Around 15.5 % of the world vineyards are in Spain! Around 75 % of the world saffron production is in Spain! Saffron is one of the essential ingredients of the paella dish! The wine Sherry comes from a city of southern Spain called Jerez, a corruption of the Persian name for the city (Sheriz). Tortillas in Spain are omelettes! Spanish omelette is commonly known as Spanish tortilla. Spain is the 5th exporter of wine to the U.S.A. (after Italy, Australia, France and Chile). Most famous wines in Spain are red ones, but the majority of the vineyards are of white grapes! Tomatoes, potatoes, cacao, tobacco were imported to Europe by Spaniards. See Spanish food influences and history. Tapas are not a typical dishes or food, tapas are more a way to eat them. The word ‘tapa’ means cover and Tapas originally were slices of cheese or something else used to cover a drink in order to keep flies and mosquitos away! Spain is the second country in numbers of bars per inhabitant, just after Cyprus.

SOL FOOD & DRINK FEATURE

8 slices streaky bacon, roughly chopped 1.5kg/3lb 4oz clams, cleaned (discard any clams that remain open after rinsing) 175ml/6fl oz white wine salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tbsp chopped fresh flatleaf parsley 50g/2oz butter 1 onion, peeled, roughly chopped 2 garlic cloves, peeled, finely chopped 500g/1lb 2oz parsnips, peeled, roughly chopped 2 fresh sprigs thyme, leaves only 750ml/1pint 7fl oz chicken stock 75ml/3fl oz double cream 1 tbsp olive oil 4 thin slices baguette, rubbed with a little oil and toasted

Method

Heat a frying pan over a medium heat and fry half of the bacon for 1-2 minutes, or until golden-brown. Remove from the pan, using a slotted spoon, and set aside to drain on kitchen paper. Meanwhile, heat a lidded frying pan over a medium heat. Add the clams and white wine, cover the pan with a lid and steam the clams for 2-3 minutes, or until all of the clams have opened. (Discard any clams that have not opened during cooking.) Strain the clams through a colander and reserve the cooking liquor. Pick the clam meat from the shells, place into a bowl, season, to taste, with freshly ground black pepper. Stir in the parsley and cooked bacon and set aside. Heat half of the butter in a saucepan until foaming and fry the onion, garlic and the remaining half of the bacon for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the parnsips and thyme and cook a further 2-3 minutes. Pour in the reserved cooking liquor from the clams, bring the mixture to the boil and cook until the volume of the liquid has reduced by one-third. Pour in the chicken stock and return the mixture to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the parsnips are tender. Stir in the double cream and blend the mixture in a blender until smooth. Pass the blended soup through a sieve into the saucepan and return to the heat. Season, to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper and whisk in the remaining 25g/1oz butter. To serve, spoon some of the clams into the middle of each of 4 serving bowls. Ladle the soup around the clams and top with a slice of toast. bbc.co.uk/food

Mesón de Irene MENU DEL DIA open 7 days a week 4 Courses with Wine & Coffee

Monday-Saturday inclusive. Lunch 1pm - 4pm

menu del noche

4 Courses with Wine & Coffee Everyday 7pm - 11pm

vegetarian menu available

sunday roast menu del dia

4 courses with bottle of ESTE wine per couple & coffee inc Lunch 1pm - 4pm, Freshly Baked Bread

Roast Lamb Shoulder & Pork Knuckle, 12oz Entrecote, 20oz T-Bone, 10oz Pork Tenderloin, Roast Potatoes & Fresh Veg.

Daily roast cooking

new smokin

g conservatory Mon: Roast Lamb Shank - Tues: Rabbit in garlic & beer Wed: Roast Pork Knuckle - Thurs: Roast Pork Loin now open Fri: Roast Lamb Shank Sat & Sun: Roast Lamb Shank & Pork Knuckle childr en

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Poligono Industrial Albox, Near the ITV Garage

29 SOL FOOD & DRINK FEATURE SOLTIMES january 2015

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l e n n e f h it w m a e r Sea b d la a s e g n a r o d n a Ingredients For the orange dressing 3 oranges, preferably blood oranges, 1 peeled and segmented, 2 zested and juiced 2 tbsp white wine vinegar 100ml/3½fl oz olive oil Fennel fronds (see below) For the fennel and onion salad 2 fennel bulbs, thinly sliced, fronds reserved 1 red onion, peeled, sliced 75g/2½oz black olives, stones removed, quartered lengthways 25ml/1fl oz olive oil 1 tbsp white wine vinegar For the sea bream 3 tbsp vegetable oil 2 whole sea bream, fillets removed

ns rn Bur y arty Pa P ht Nigh

Method

For the orange dressing, heat the orange juice in a small saucepan and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the volume of the liquid has reduced by two-thirds. Stir in the zest, set aside to cool and then leave to chill in the fridge. Technique: Zesting citrus fruit Zesting citrus fruit Put the orange segments into an airtight, heatproof plastic bag (sous-vide bag). Place the bag into a small saucepan of boiling water for 10 seconds. Carefully remove the bag from the water and gently press apart the segments with your fingers to make orange ‘pearls’.

Segmenting citrus fruit Add the orange pearls to the chilled, reduced orange juice. Stir in the white wine vinegar, olive oil and half of the fennel fronds. Set aside. For the fennel and onion salad, place the sliced fennel and red onion into a bowl of iced water and set aside for 10 minutes. Drain, pat dry using kitchen paper and place into a large bowl. Add two-thirds of the olives, the olive oil, white wine vinegar and remaining fennel fronds to the bowl and season, to taste, with salt. Stir until well combined and set aside. For the sea bream, score the sea bream 4-5 times on the skin side and season, to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat the oil in a frying pan and fry the fish, skin-side down, for 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside to rest for two minutes. To serve, drizzle some dressing around the edge of each of four serving plates. Place a sea bream fillet, skin-side up, in the middle of the plate and top with the fennel and onion salad. Scatter over the reserved olive pieces. bbc.co.uk/food

Scientific name: Sparus Auratus Family: Sparidae Species: Sparus Auratus

Description: Gilthead Sea Bream is found along the Atlantic coastline from Cape Verde and Canary Islands up to the britsih Isles during summer, but is primarily to be found in the Mediterranean Sea and only rarely in the Black Sea. Sea Bream lives in shallow waters (usually less than 30 metres) and during spring it often enters into brackish water, coastal lagoons or estuaries where it performs very well. SeaBream is feeding on small fish, shellfish including oysters and mussels which it is able to crack with its very strong jaws. Sea Bream is one of the most highly prized fish due to the sweet flavour, the moist but firm texture and the rosy-white colouration of the meat. Most of the fish are sold and prepared as dressed where the Sea Bream undoubtedly is keeping its very best characteristics. has now moved

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nal ion t0pm s - 9.3 ts io Op t ilt 6.00pm Kil 3 Course .95€ 2 1 Themed pm 30 pm 7:30 77 -- 7: al tial enti ssen Ess ngss E king ooki Boo B

Tel: 950 634 562

lavidacucador@gmail.com Open every day 12pm - late

superturre

eat in & takeaway indian food

8.95€

el Cucador

Noche

menu de la

Starters Starters

Chef’s Homemade Soup Potato Shells with a Pancetta and Cheese Filling La Vida Homemade Pate RoastedPepperfilledwithCreamyMushroomRisotto GarlicMushroomstoppedwithCheeseandBreadcrumbs Deep Fried Camembert Prawn Tower Mains Rack of Ribs in our Homemade Barbecue Sauce Pork Escalope served on Braised Apples Pan-FriedChickenBreastinaBrandyandMushroomSauce Beer Battered Hake 3 courses Horseshoe Gammon, Egg and Pineapple 12.95€ Desserts Choice of Fresh Homemade Desserts of the Day priceincludesglassofhousewine,tuboofbeerorsoftdrink.

traditional Sunday lunch from 12.30pm

Selection of Delicious Homemade starters and puddings to include a glass of wine or tubo. Our main menu includeds a selection of fine fresh vegetables and homemade gravy, and included a FREE glass of wine, tubo or soft drink booking recommended

from

5€

from

5.95€

bar specials from 6pm

Mondays: Chilli & Rice Tuesdays: Cod & Chips

Cod & chips

FRIDAYS 12.30pm - 9pm

Wednesdays / Thursdays: Selection of homemade pies, chips & gravy

LIVE PREMIER FOOTBALL

We are here

Albox Arboleas Zurgena La Alfoquia

Mojacar

E15

1km

La Vida

Cucador Huercal Overa

Junc 547

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

SOL News

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

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

www.soltimes.com

roquetas - COMMUNITY NEWS nOTICE bOARD Aquarium Offers Free Winter Tours

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION NOTICE FORTHCOMING SOCIAL EVENTS IN 2015 ROQUETAS DE MAR SUB-BRANCH 3569

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MEMBERS & FRIENDS! Tuesday 3rd February – Social Meeting at THE LODGE Thursday 12th February – Quiz afternoon & Mini meal at Burty’s Bar. Further details to follow. Tuesday 3rd March – Social meeting & Greyhound Racing afternoon. Tuesday 17th March RBL Luncheon at Bar Southern & Raffle. Tuesday 7th April – Social meeting Easter Cake Competition & Tombola. APRIL – POSS MINI BUS TRIP TO ALMERIMAR watch this space! Tuesday 5th May – Social meeting & Quiz afternoon.

All monies raised at these events will go to the 2015 Poppy Appeal.

New members are most welcome to join the branch, so come along to any the social meetings, contact Jenny/Mike on 950 328 469 for further info. Meetings are held at ‘The Lodge’ on Calle Americo Vespucio, Roquetas De Mar, on the first Tuesday of each month (3pm), unless otherwise notified.

estampa Tapas Bar FREE WI-FI

Tapas/Snacks English Breakfast Fish & Chips Coffees & Cakes Cocktails/ Sangria

Do you want to improve your Spanish and speak English with new friends. Every Thursdays from 9.00

Open 9.30am - late (Closed Tuesday)

Next door to Zurimar 678 202 160

L’arrivée

Tapas & Lounge Café in Aguadulce. You can taste our fantastic tapas and enjoy

al l sp or ts no w sh ow n

Spanish

improving and

your

speaking

English with people from Spain and other countries. Your first pint of beer and tapa is for free. Just come and enjoy

16-1-15 Mar Y Sol, opp. Hotel Playa Luna. 23-1-15 Bar Estampa, opp. Hotel Playa Luna. 30-1-15 CHAPLIN’S PUB, C/Sierra Nevada. 6-2-15 New York NY, in the Urb

Anyone is welcome to join the happy bunch and have a laugh, exchange views and ideas. The more, the merrier and the bar owners enjoy it too!

Burty’s BAR Playa Serena, roquetas de mar Open from 11am (closed Tuesday)

Mini SUNDAY roast

Tapas served Daily

table top sale

from 1.50€

25th january

bingo wed 3pm • quiz thurs 2.15pm Opposite Playa Luna Hotel between Oasis & Mar y Sol. free Tel: 679 156 715

PUB CHAPLINS oquetas R erra Nevada,



SAT 27 C:alle SiSPORTS BAR Monday - Saturday 3PM NO1 KO’S 11am - 4pm and 7pm W- IFclose. SPORT FREE I.....LIVES WEDS €5.95 Sunday : 12noon FO - 5pm &...RIB OD DAILY .95 + QUIZ 9.30 from 7pm FRI FISH & CHIPS €4AST €1.50 MINI SUNDAY RO 0 Thursdays : closed light bites €1.5 n

be a part  of i t Su es Tu



A La Carte MenuOpen fromTE1pLm618 824 368 Main Meals from €7.95

tapas served

 Every Friday fish chips & peas 



Lunch & Evening



tdoor u o y n n u s s Spaciou seating 24 terrace TV SKY

Want to improve your Spanish?

FTG Notice

The ‘Friday Tapas Group’ meet each Friday in the Urbanisation at 1.00pm and the venues for the next few weeks are:-



Meets on Monday’s at 3pm at Park Café VIP Lounge. For more info please contact Alison Ferguson 950 349 749 or Sue Barlow 950 333 344

am and 7 pm. It has suffered financial difficulties almost from the time it was opened in 2006, coming within a few days of closure last year when the electricity company Endesa threatened to cut off the power if a 10,000 euro bill was not paid. With the help from some fast intervention by the local council, the closure was averted and the lives of the 2,000 species – some of them very rare – were saved. Towards the end of last year, a multi-purpose function centre was added to the building, with a view to bringing in much needed revenue from weddings, meetings and school lecture visits. Although the backing of the council guarantees the continued existence of the aquarium, it’s far from being the major attraction (as the largest in Andalucía) it should be. Martin Shortland



Roquetas Bridge club

The beleaguered Roquetas Aquarium launched a new promotional campaign last week in an effort to increase winter ticket sales. Any weekend visitors between January and May will have the opportunity of joining a free guided tour: tours at other times of the year come at an extra cost. Speaking at the press conference on Friday, the director of the aquarium Enrique Fernandez, said the move was ‘a small but significant’ effort in order to attract more visitors to the centre during the quiet winter months. And it has to be said, it is indeed a small offer. Visitors will still have to pay the normal entrance price to the attraction, so on the face of it, one could ask what exactly is the incentive? The free tours will be available between 12 and 5 on Saturdays and at similar times on Sunday, although this will often depend on the feeding times of the bull sharks which normally takes place on Sunday afternoon. The aquarium is open during the winter months at the weekend and on public holidays, between 10

Sunday lunch from €2.50 Served 12 noon til 8pm

wednesday wobbler 3 courses 7.95€

Served 7pm til 10pm

valentines dinner

3 course meal with bottle of wine

35€ per couple

Tel: 659 683 447 www.newyorknewyork.es OPPOSITE THE Protur hotel, next to y da wakes

SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

SOL CLASSIFIEDS Air-con

MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L. City & Guilds Fully Qualified F-Gas Certified

gardening

Don Robinson pc consultant

potty finca services

Advice, Help, Training, Diagnosis & Repair, 15€ per hour min charge MD S.L 1 hour + parts +IVA not a jack of all trades I come to you For all your installation or service established 2008 comp TIA A+ certified MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L offers requirements including our latest info@md-aircon.com Tel: 646 587 746 telephone

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

md_aircon@mobileemail.vodafone.es

Digital Vision

Air Conditioning Services based in Mojacar & all areas with 10 years experience covered

We offer competitive affordable rates

donald_gunn_robinson@msn.com

Steve Hayes Informatica

Pc’s, Laptops, Printers etc. Sales & Repairs on-site Callout/Tuition. Consumables

www.digitalvisiones.com

Albox, Almeria Tel: 950 120 900

Tel: 645 294 064/950 472 081

drainage

visit

email: info@digitalvisiones.com

Airport services

alternative energy

www.AAparking.es Tel: 639 081 067

Solar Wind P o w er Solutions. Over 15 years installation experience. established 12 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices 636 261 240 email: info@sunergy almer ia.c om www.sunergy almeria.com

Cheap

Airport Parking

Alicante Almeria Murcia New Servicing / Repairs

SOLTIMES

To advertise your business here Tel: Kate 950 121 936

baby equipment hire

BABY HIRE

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

Drainage Solutions

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

Established 9 years in spain

Tel: 616 531 283 or 670 088 966

Cleaning of Septic Tanks ▪ Emptying of septic Tanks & Cesspits, with high pressure cleaning ▪ Small unblockages of pipes & drainage

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

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

health & beauty pamper yourself at R Retreat El Cucador, beauty treatments, hair salon, holistic massage, waxing, pedicure etc. Therapists all established & UK qualified. Email retreatcucador.gmail.com or call 647 379 878 or look at our main advert on the ladies page inside & call the therapists direct avon cosmetics Tel Claire 691 987 454 avonfromclaire @yahoo.es NEW COMBINATION of Hits high intensity Interval training toning & conditioning of entire body Tel Viki on: 650 764 623 for more info

hobby/craft ELAINE’S WOOLS Quality UK Wool & Accessories. Come & view my DISPLAY. Also Available at CAT Services & Total Entertainment Call 667 273 889 elaineswools@gmail. com

house clearance

house & garage

clearance

Pool Cleaning & Water Tanks everything must go

Contact: 675 838 808

950 436 581/666 375 688

expectingababy.2006@gmail.com LICENSED POZO/septic tank emptying business opportunity

Tel: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 Ext 332 sales@soltimes.com

computers

25 years sole experience in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

950 432 110 / 607 364 917

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

• I nstallation of new septic tanks with certificates

Los Higuerales Tel: 633 507 165 wanted

for sale GAS FIRE & BOTTLE 40€, Spanish TV Aerial and Box 40€, Various Household & Garden Items, Tel: 666 160 906

Set of 4 Double Wall Lights in near perfect condition. Metal Backs in Blue with White Glass Lamps, also matching Table Lamp. g e n er ator 50 euros for the lot. Telephone 950 for sale 200€ 478 505, or 634 308 900, Mojacar ono for more info Area. phone 649 186 107

• Repairs to existing pozos

BLUES MAN CHARLIE

SOLTIMES business directory

SOLTIMES 950 121 936

1 PAIR OF mens black hand made leather brogues. size 9 (43). mens genuine leather and sheepskin jacket in excellent condition. Size XXXL (chest 4648). In excellent condition 150€ OVNO, Henry Numatic Hoover. Complete with all attachment and two new boxes of bags. In excellent condition as only 7 months old. 80€, Genuine Salt Lamp. Approx 10 inches high. 20€. Tel: 634 376 049

or EMAIL us Send your

table tennis full size 120€ table Tel: 649 186 107

sales@soltimes.com

HALF PRICE 1 BEHA NEATER H E A T E R Nº8 MODEL new 185€ wall mounted. looking for 100€ Only used for a few weeks last year still got 4 years warranty Huecal overa area could deliver Tel: 950 064 482

a quiz compare wanted Monday evenings 8pm - 10.30pm at la vida cucador, A compare • CCTV Camera to compare our weekly quiz. For Inspection more information please ask at the B R O T H E R Call Andy on 950 091 109 or 648 768 587 bar or call Rob on 609 199 394 If you would like to start earnELECTRIC Email: blockeddrainsrus@albox-online.net ing extra money now! Then the internet is definitely the place BE SEEN in the S E WING to do this. You can earn money ENTERTAINMENT M A C H IN E whilst relaxing by the pool or brand new when even earn whilst you’re sleeping. bought 2 years This is the reality for people that are From just €1 per week making money online. ago 40€ ONO NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED www.soltimes.com Tel: 634 328 142 HARD DRIVING BLUES For Free Information Visit Tel: Paulette on 950 121 936 TEL: 645 086 441 www.howtomakemoneyfrommembershipsites.co.uk Or email: sales@soltimes.com Jayne

“Internet Millionaire Reveals Secrets Of Making £1,000 A Week & More Without Any Previous Experience”

Built in Gas Fire, 4 years ars old, cost 1300.00 euros Perfect working order come and see for you for your self fire working. Buyer collects 250€ ono 634 307 418 Mick Arboleas

www.soltimes.com see us online everyday

TELEPHONE 950 121 936

Monday to Friday Between 10am & 5pm

advert or lineage to

IN PERSON los carasoles, 27 Zurgena, 04650, Almeria

Mon to Fri 10am - 5pm above

New Horizon Villas

DEADLINES

All adverts Friday at 5pm prior to publication

SOLTIMES january 2015

www.soltimes.com

www.soltimes.com insurance

iron/metal

pets

albox

The Metal works Grills, railings, gates of all types, security/sliding/ roller, rejas, concertina doors etc. Tel: Keith Wood on 638 900 949

No need for kennels or cattery Pet sitting in you own home, Arboleas & local area. Call Vanessa 637 061 482

insurance

Award winning agent For all your Insurance Needs Please contact

Glenn & jayne 950 121 943

infoalbox.libertyseguros@gmail.com

legal services

plasterer British plasterer All work Guaranteed Tel:Paul: 634 327 201

plumbing

Tel: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 ext 332 removals

PROPERTY

we do SPAIN UK SPAIN

gardening tiling painting cleaning etc give us a call on 649 186 107

free

Removals

Friendly Reliable Service Fully Legal Special deal from UK - Spain Office: 968 564 298 Mobile: 696 621 884

Tlf. 646 844 708

www.4wayconnections.webs.com

locksmith

load of small or big Olive logs, no roots €165 load of mixed Olive some roots €145 load of eucalyptus, no roots €165 all loads 2 tonnes Arboleas & surrounding areas Call Lee on 636 092 632 eliteplanthire@hotmail.co.uk

PAINTER

painter & decorator

friendly - professional -reliable all types of exterior & interior work

ring for a free quote

Tel: 649 186 107 or

email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

monthly door to door service

uk@fmtransport.co.uk www.fmtransport.co.uk

All types of Plumbing

James & Son safe&securetransport

No 1 for Plumbing

€125,000 ono 649 186 107 or email

thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

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.

Removals / Storage

UK, France & Spain personalshoppingfromtheUK (Argos,Screwfix,Wickesetc) Pet Transportation & Competitive Rates

634 337 185 C & A REMOVALS & STORAGE UK-SPAIN - SPAIN - UK from a box to a full load Cars, Pets & passenger if req

LOCAL REMOVALS ALSO

SECURE STORAGE

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT LUBRIN ALMERIA SPAIN & ESSEX UK

SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

Phil the Pick Locksmith 24 hours. Locked Out? Locks fitted/ upgraded house safes. Arboleas & surrounding area. Special weekend rates. Tel: 697 243 181

logs for sale

From a parcel to a small house move Professional,Friendly & Caring Fully insured, scheduled

+44 (0) 1582 499 836 quotations & marmenorremovals@hotmail.com +44 (0) 7977 754 389 good prices

If you wish us to print an TELEPHONE: article about a particular 950137197 / 606807797 topic in our regular space PROPERTY on pg 17, please email reduced further info@daviessolicitors.com

Calle Dinamarca 8,Mojacar Playa

UK - SPAIN - UK

KNOWLES plumbing Central Heating Gas/Oil - Solar Hot Water Boiler Servicing, Repairs & Replacements Water Leaks - Sewage Blockages Water Deposit Tanks 500-8000l Pool Pumps - Septic Tanks Osmosis Systems

Legal Services including: Conveyancing, NIE, Wills & Inheritance, Residencias, Cadastre, Notary / Court, Translations and much more. We speak English, Spanish, French & Swedish

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

Specialising in rural property with character Whether you are buying or selling we will be delighted to hear from you

Unwanted items bought for CASH Call: 634 310 512/634 349 347 or 07434434820

De Lima’s

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

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

www.delimas.biz

fortnightly SERVICE TO & FROM UK FULL OR PART LOADS

Call Stephen 636 266 641 email info@findmeahome.es Find us online at www.findmeahome.es facebook.com/findmeahome

HOUSE FOR SALE

3 bed villa in La Cañada. 5km to airport, 5 km to Almeria 5 km to beach. Plot 1100 sq.m. En suite to main bedroom, shower room, two lounges Off road parking for 3 cars, patios, lawned area fruit trees.

Price 195,000€ Tel: 950 290 266

REMOVALS

spain uk spain friendly - reliable All jobs considered

Call John on

UK: 00447 939 88 0110 Spain: 0034 634 368 071 chalmersJ8@hotmail.co.uk advertise your business

Your business will appear as shown below and be seen by 55,000 Sol Times readers!

tel: Kate on 950 121 936

0034 627 968 434 0044 7874 638 330 sat/tv services

to & from uk

thermal lined & controlled ventilation ideal for pets

200€ dog - 179€ cats 100€ birds

heavy loads welcome 4700kg with speed limiter fixed price quotes fully legal operation shop & offices to visit px goods to offset costs

www.movemypetsandstuff.com

call: 634 368 430

1.9 satellite dishes BE SEEN

now in stock

we are the cheapest in the area

Tel: 620 112 193 642 310 103 spanish tuition

LEARN SPANISH…

24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK, 365 DAYS A YEAR With an entry in the

SOLTIMES

business directory

From just €1 per week www.soltimes.com

Private lessons and different levels also available.

Tel: Paulette on 950 121 936 Or email: sales@ soltimes.com for details

upholstery

situations wanted

…in a fun and enjoyable class with Paco

at Camping Los Gallardos, MiraFlores Restaurant.

New, beginners class starts 22nd january 2015 4.30pm

CALL PACO 661 142 606

CUSHIONS CUSTOm MADE

•Foam replacement •Interior/Exterior Fabrics •Free estimates

Tel: 692 176 069

Trish personal helper, driver & translator (Australian registered Nurse) Telephone

699 990 774

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

SOLTIMES january 2015

are you a trade Business? advertise in the classified section & reach over 30,000 potential customers

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

situations vacant

SOLTIMES

have a vacancy at the office of Los Carasoles

We are looking for a talented artworker to join our expanding team in our production department. You must be able to use

INDESIGN & PHOTOSHOP

have a creative eye, love the pressure of working to a deadline and have a good sense of humour! If this sounds like you we want to hear from you

Please send your CV to editor@soltimes.com

SOLTIMES

newspaper group are looking for Bright, enthusiastic sales people

Send your CV to rob@soltimes.com or call Paulette on 950 121 936

motoring section mobile mechanics

mechanic

areas, fully

nissan pathfinder Dci-Fe 4x4 2.5D, 2006, silver, 134k, ITV Oct 15 Cloth interior, CD player P. steering, Alloy wheels 2nd owner since 2011 Excellant condition, Tel: 634 326 521

qualified & legal, over 30 years experience, Call Paul on 617 150 300

We have a sales position to work from our local office in Zurgena. Do you enjoy a fast paced working environment? If you have an outgoing personality with bags of enthusiasm & enjoy the pressure of weekly deadlines then we would love to hear from you. Experience is not essential as full trainning will be given

wanted

Casa Naranja Motos Motorcycle Breakers

We buy your unwanted bikes for cash, runners, non-runners or accident damaged. Anything considered

Tel: 950426904 or 600384265 email

casanaranjamotos@hotmail.com

Friendly Environment in a secure Countryside Setting. All Diet Requirements Catered for. Daily Exercise in over 30 Acre Estate, Vet on 24/7 standby. (30 years Experience).

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

Alan 662 249 159

www.replatematecostablanca.com

animal corner

PAT 607554984 MARRON weimaraner approx 2 years old found dumped inoculated and chipped very thin needs building EVE x jack Russell approx 2 years up. Phone PAT 607554984 found near to death and gave birth to 5 puppies 3 days after being found. Very nervous needs lots of love and care. Phone PAT 607554984 MOLLY. Small x Labrador approx 9 months old good with other dogs very lively Offer a Warm, inoculated chipped and

Call 722 435 226 - 950 067 051 674 536 480 www.palominokennels.com

“RE-PLATE” MATE

covering all

Palomino Kennels Exclusive Boarding Kennels/Cattery Gl Pa ad th lom ey s the i y w no Ke ent m en nn e to t e we back ls w h t En t gla o col ile d& nd !

7,995€ ono

Mobile motor

dogs needing homes

TIA x German shepherd 6 months old found laying next to her dead sister loves children and other dogs. Inoculated and chipped very loving dog needs a forever home phone

number plates

for sale

To advertise here call : 950 121 936 spayed needs somebody who can give her lots of long walks and love phone PAT 607554984 > BREEZER golden retriever 6 years old inoculated chipped and spayed quite happy just lazing around good with other dogs and children rehoming due to unforseen circumstances. A lovely girl phone PAT 607554984

Let us transport your loving friends to and from the UK & Europe in comfort with loving care in our air-conditioned van

Tel 950 092 096 or 661 402 493 Email jt.transport@yahoo.co.uk

Ken & Jackie Dog & Cat Sitter service

• Your home or ours • Honest & trust worthy • 5 years experience of all types of animals • References available on request

676 389 592

SOLTIMES january 2015

www.soltimes.com

Book Review

“The sense of simple joy was so poignant it was almost pain. She would not let herself think of tomorrow when all this would only be a dream. This was today.” Ever heard of Winifred Watson? She wrote six novels from 1935-1943. Five of them contained either a rural or historical setting based around the north-east of England and because of their romantic nature, Watson soon developed a strong female following before Catherine Cookson. But it was the book written in 1938, initially rejected by her publishers as being too risque that proved the most popular of her books. A musical version had been planned with Billie Burke playing Guinevere but Pearl Harbour ended all hope of this although it eventually inspired the 2008 film starring Frances McDormand as Guinevere, Amy Adams as Delysia and Mark Strong as Nick. The book is charming and funny “pure Cinderella fantasy, farce with beaus, bounders, negligees and nightclubs” more like watching a Fred Astaire film or an Oscar Wilde play. Satirical and entertaining. But like Cinders it might also hint that Guinevere gets her Prince and lives happily ever after. Who knows? Guinevere Pettigrew is an ordinary character who is accidentally catapulted into an exciting adventure that lasts for a day. A dream come true. She is in her late thirties but could be in her forties. Watson is vague on this. She works for an agency as a governess but the sad thing is that she admits to Delysia La Fosse (formerly

Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day by Winifred Watson

Sarah Glubb), a glamorous actress/ singer that she hated working as a governess, she couldn’t manage children and that without this kind of work there would be no future left than to seek refuge in the workhouse. She’s in an unenviable position. Without family or friends to support her she’s out on a limb, very much the outcast. And don’t we like an underdog? She is behind with her rent and if she doesn’t get a job, she knows she’ll be booted out of her flat into the workhouse. A common theme running through Watson’s novels supports women having second chances. There we have it, a happy novel in spite of Guinevere’s precarious personal circumstances at the start. Another spoiler? Well, okay. Hint. The wheel of fortune might turn in her favour….. She turns up at the agency. We can’t have a destitute heroine can we? It is 9.15.a.m. on a cold, grey, foggy November morning. Guinevere felt the situation to be hopeless before she is told there have been two requests: one for a maid, another for a nursery governess. Miss Holt at the agency disliked our heroine and it seems possible she wanted her to come unstuck by giving her the wrong booking on purpose, hoping to get rid

of her for good. A self-conscious Guinevere, wearing her non-descript, shabby, even ugly clothes, a symbol of faded gentility in spite of her unimpeachable virtue found herself at an exclusive and opulent London address: Onslow Mansions. A shocking contrast between wealth and poverty. Her potential employer was a beautiful and desirable woman called Delysia La Fosse, a young, unmarried but rather promiscuous artist with three gorgeous and exciting lovers who were insanely jealous of each other. Her maid has just left and she is unable to run a house-cook, clean the usual stuff. So, Guinevere’s arrival is a God send. She doesn’t question the girl and Guinevere is so desperate to earn a living that she gets started with breakfast and seems to fit in so perfectly. She is alarmed at experiencing this wicked, corrupted existence where one lover replaces another and she(the mistress) falls into bed with ease with one after the other. Just like the cinema. Guinevere gets drawn into this new and exciting world with the Phils, the Nicks and the Michaels. She becomes a marriage counsellor and

Infrastructure has come up with a list of 200 installations that need to be protected. Security will also be increased in commercial areas that attract a lot of people, as well as at sporting events and concerts.

Government beefs up security Since the government raised the terror level threat this week, a large contingent of riot police and Civil Guard officers have been deployed to patrol areas and secure sites that could be potential targets of terrorist attacks.

on Wednesday following the attack in Paris on the French weekly Charlie Hebdo, which left 12 people dead and several others wounded.

Interior Minister Jorge Fernández on Thursday said he could not specify how many officers have been called out, because they will be used depending on needs. The National Police’s Intervention Unit and the Reserve and Security Groups of the Civil Guard are the largest forces now patrolling the streets across the country.

Francisco Martínez, secretary of state for security, has issued instructions to beef up security in crucial areas until the terror alert is dropped.

Spain announced a level three alert, out of a maximum of four,

Security will be increased in commercial areas, as well as at sporting events and concerts

Security will remain tight around facilities and areas that could be targeted by jihadist terrorists, especially at crucial points such as air and sea ports, rail and bus stations, power grids and nuclear plants. The National the Protection

Center for of Critical

The Spanish interior minister will travel to Paris on Sunday to attend an emergency meeting called by France to discuss antiterrorism measures. Fernández will meet his European counterparts as well as top US officials, including US Attorney General Eric Holder. Fernández maintains that there hasn’t been a specific threat made against Spain by jihadists. But anti-terrorism experts said they were “very worried” because Spain is frequently mentioned in comments posted in jihadist websites, and the Islamic State repeatedly refers to Spain as Al-Andalus in its propaganda videos, a reference to the parts of modern Spain and Portugal that fell under Islamic rule during medieval times. Islamic State followers have called for the reconquest of Al-Andalus. Elpais.com

becomes so absorbed into Delysia’s love life that she takes on the role of caring parent. At times she is more like the battle-axe, fending off the lovers and giving them ultimatums. Wonderful satire. A frumpy Guinevere is transformed into a vampish, seductive and sophisticated woman by Edythe Dubarry, another friend of the actress, another loose woman who vamped the boss, seduced him into marrying her and when he died, after a short marriage, she inherited the best beauty parlour in London and wealth. She makes our heroine look fastidiously elegant so that when she appears at the Ogilveys cocktail party she is the belle of the ball, the toast of the theatre crowd of London. Like Eliza Doolittle tales soon spread that she is a first-class mimic, a future star with a promising career on stage. A dream come true. Or make believe? Remember what happened to Cinderella when the clock struck twelve? Will the same fate befall Miss Pettigrew and is there a happy ending in store for such a delightful character as Guinevere? Tonight she was Cinderella but what about tomorrow and the future? Aha! Wonderful fantasy. Recommended by 1001 books you must read before you die. I loved it! Publishers: Persephone Classics. ISBN: 978-1-906462-02-4. REVIEW it by Carol Naylor. www.carolnaylor.blogspot.com / www.carolesleynaylor.wordpress.com naylorcl@hotmail.es

pause for thought I guess we all tend to subconsciously compare ourselves with others, setting our behavioural standards at a level where we think we’d pass, whilst those around may fail. But St Paul, in his letter written in the first Century AD to Christians living in Galatia, prescribed standards that depressingly few of us could hope to attain, as he lists a variety of behaviours, apparently common in the World of his time, that his readers were urged to avoid. And reading it today, that list, compiled some 2000 years ago, can seem amazingly topical, up-to-date and relevant to our own culture as he warns against “adultery, fornication, debauchery, crudity, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, quarrelling, jealousy, anger, conflict, divisiveness, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness and orgies”. An interesting mix. And difficult to explain the order in which they are listed. Few would be too surprised at Paul’s disapproval of adultery, fornication, debauchery, idolatry, drunkenness or orgies, which seem fairly normal targets for Church criticism, but strange perhaps that these are treated with the same level of censure as murder, which most would consider to be far worse. And it may seem stranger still that such apparently minor failings as quarrelling, jealousy, anger, conflict, divisiveness and envy (faults we probably all share) are similarly lumped together with all the rest, with no suggestion that they are considered any less serious. But in God’s sight there really is no difference. Any imperfection, however minor we may consider it, is still a failure to live up to His standard, so there’s no place for complacency or judging others. I need to keep checking myself and just myself against these absolute standards and recognising that my anger at the stupidity of others; my envy of all those abilities and possessions others have; my bitter arguments or attempts to persuade folk to take my side in a disagreement, all miss that mark just as much as someone who murders, commits adultery or practices witchcraft. We’re all just as bad in God’s eyes and equally in need of a saviour. Details of a number of English Language Churches are given in Sol Noticeboard for any wishing to Worship, whilst additionally, further information about the Anglican Church in this area 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

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36 SOLTIMES january 2015 Call: 950 121 936 - 902 750 190

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Travel feature: Hampshire A holiday in Hampshire is something to be embraced. The county has some fascinating links. Peter Sellers was born in Southsea, Jack Dee was educated in Winchester and Jim Davidson lives in Stockbridge. My wife always says that Mr Davidson was fantastic in Aladdin at The Mayflower in Southampton. But Brian Conley played a brilliant Buttons in Cinderella, the theatre’s recent pantomime, and he will be starring in Barnum at The Mayflower throughout 2015. The Mayflower Theatre is a wonderful art deco venue that has seen many celebrities grace its stage. Hampshire is also a popular location to film with Worzel Gummidge and Howard’s Way both shot here; in and around the Wallops and The Hamble, respectively. This affluent part of the south east is a large county with three cities: Winchester, Southampton and Portsmouth. We stay near Wickham, from which it is easy to visit all three of these cities, if we wish. The house is a pleasant Victorian terrace cottage with three bedrooms so large enough for us to relax and not get under each other’s feet. Experiences create memories and we hope that our daughters will remember them when they grow up. So with that in mind we venture to New Forest Wildlife Park. The weather turns to rain but that doesn’t matter. Even though it’s winter there are still some magnificent butterflies to be seen and all undercover, which is extremely welcome. Harriett and Heidi are mesmerised, as are we, by an enormous pale blue variety that will not sit still so unfortunately we are unable to take a photograph. By the time we head back outside the weather has slightly improved and we enjoy seeing a surprising variety of wildlife

that ranges from otters to wild boar, wallabies and wolves. You certainly don’t expect to see these in Hampshire. Back inside there are ferrets and hedgehogs and even barn owls and badgers. It’s a real treat for the girls. On another day we visit Port Solent on the way to Portsmouth and have a relaxing stroll around the complex. It’s the perfect location for a family get together where Harriett and Heidi have chance to meet up with their grandfather. “This wasn’t here when I was young; the developers have done a good job and there are a variety of shops,” says my father, who lived in Gosport and Petersfield in his youth. “In fact just over the water a German submarine got stuck in the war and it remained there until the 1960s.” We dine at Prezzo, the Italian restaurant. It’s nice to know that diners can rely on finding good food and friendly waiting staff. Heidi (1) finds it difficult to adjust to her new surroundings at first and it is reassuring that other families with temperamental young children are also present so we don’t feel too self-conscience. The background music helps to take attention off our irritable youngest daughter. But once the food arrives Heidi is in her element trying everything she can. Although we have ordered her own set meal from the children’s menu including garlic bread it is mummy’s goat’s cheese salad that truly captures her attention while Harriett helps me tuck into my crab cakes and garlic mayonnaise, which are very moreish. The bread board is a tasty accompaniment. Convivial surroundings and delicious food see us while away three care free hours. Admittedly Harriett and Heidi get bored and take to walking about and trying to help the waitresses clear the tables but they don’t mind. Caroline and I opt for a carbonara main course while grandpa has a risotto. Watch the videos at http://www.travelwriter.biz. For more information visit: www.newforestwildlifepark.co.uk - www.prezzorestaurants.co.uk By Tim Saunders

BUTTERFLY CATCHING

Volkswagen sold over 10 million vehicles in 2014

Volkswagen says it sold more than 10 million vehicles last year for the first time as strong performances in China and western Europe pushed deliveries 4.2 percent higher, the Associated Press reports. Volkswagen AG announced Sunday, Jan 11 night that it delivered 10.14 million cars and trucks in 2014, up from 9.73 million the previous year. In December, the company — whose brands include Audi, Skoda and Seat — sold 857,600 vehicles, a 2.7 percent increase compared with a year earlier. Last year’s deliveries in

Volkswagen’s home European market rose 5.1 percent to 3.95 million. That increase was powered by higher sales in western Europe; sales in central and eastern Europe edged up 0.4 percent as deliveries in Russia dropped 12.7 percent. Volkswagen’s sales in China rose 12.4 percent to 3.68 million.

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Sol Times Almeria is 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 Almeria is an independent publication. Published weekly and produced exclusively in Almeria. 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 nonappearance of an advertisement. EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER: Views & opinion in editorial copy are not necessarily those of the publisher. the publisher accepts no responsibility for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements and reject claims arising out of any action that a company or individual may take on the basis of information contained therein. Almeria Edition AL-344-2005/Roquetas Edition AL 956-2010

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38 SOLTIMES january 2015 SOL SPORT & MOTORING

Car of the Year 2014: Peugeot 308 It takes something pretty special to become the Car of the Year.

And this is what the Peugeot 308 achieved in 2014. It’s certainly a striking family hatchback and its side profile reminds me a little of the Mercedes A-Class, which can only be good. However, it’s obviously far better than that and during my time with it I have been surprised on many fronts. Firstly, you would be forgiven for thinking that you were driving a sporty 1.8litre or 2-litre but it is only powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine. The engineers at Peugeot have worked overtime getting as much as they possibly can from this tiddly little unit, which produces a sporty 130bhp. Needless to say it’s a joy to drive and the smooth six speed automatic gearbox can even be driven like a manual should the mood allow. This is a feel good car; one in which the driver is equipped to tackle any challenges the open road throws at him. If extra oomph

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is required simply press the sports mode located to the left of the gearbox. While it doesn’t provide lightning performance it does increase the revs and a little ‘s’ appears on the dash. If conditions become icy there’s an ice mode to the right of the gearbox giving the driver extra security that the vehicle isn’t going to slide down the road. With its comfy seats and bags of technology this is certainly a driver’s car. Many of the controls can be found on the centre console, home to the sat nav and the reversing camera. The heating controls for instance are operated from here. This is all very well but it is actually slower than the traditional manual dial I find. I still find that there is a delay when engaging the auto box and the electronic parking brake, which while easy to use, is not as attractive to me as a traditional handbrake. The panoramic glass roof, a £500 option on the test model, is a fantastic addition because it makes the cabin light and airy. There’s an electric cover, too. We all agree that this roof should also be a sunroof because sometimes you want the option of being able to open the roof up. As cars become wider some speed bumps that are meant to be the width of a car forcing drivers to slow down are actually not wide enough for the 308, which for the driver is a joy but defeats the object of sleeping policemen. The Pug is a versatile car looking the part no matter what the plan; family or business. It will transport a dishwasher to the tip, collect a load of logs and swallow enough luggage for a family get away. “If you’re on the hunt for a family hatchback then the new Peugeot 308 needs to be on your list,” writes Parkers, the car experts. “There isn’t one particular stand-out reason for this but a host of smaller reasons that add up to a compelling case for the new 308 as your next new car. As any family knows you need great practicality, low running costs and a real value for money price tag. The 308 is claimed to have the biggest boot in its class, and it can stow significantly more luggage than the popular Ford Focus and company car favourite, the VW Golf. “Running costs are kept low thanks to frugal and low-emission diesel and petrol engines, with the 1.2-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel particularly kind to wallets. The 92bhp diesel has an official average figure of over 78mpg so high 60s should be possible in everyday driving. However, it’s the arrival of the new petrol and diesel engines in Spring 2014 that promise even lower costs with a new 120bhp, 1.6-litre diesel with an official fuel consumption of 91mpg on average.” New price range: £14,995 - £25,945, Top speed: 124mph, 0-60mph: 9.8secs, Power: 130bhp, Economy: 54mpg. Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz - By Tim Saunders

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cars for sale...cars for sale...cars for sale...cars for sale 2004 Nissan Navarra 4x4, Crew Cab, 135,000kms, A/C, new ITV..................€4995 2001 Ford Galaxy 1.9, TDI, Auto, 7 Seater, New ITV............................€3295 Nissan Terrano 2.7 TDI, SWB, 4x4 New ITV..............................................€2495 1999 Skoda Felicia Pick Up 1.9d, VGC.......................................................€1995 Citroen C15 New ITV, Electric Windows, CD Player, VGC............................€1495 2001 opel Corsa, 1.7d, A/C, New ITV & Tyres...........................................€1495 1999 Astra Estate 1.6, Tow Bar, New ITV....................................................€1295 1996 Peugeot 306 1.9 Td, A/C, 5-Door Hatch.............................................€1200 Find us on the Partaloa to Oria road (A399) 1km outside of Oria on the right. Carretera Autonomica A-399 - c / Paraje el Puente sin 04810. Oria, Almeria

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SOLTIMES january 2015

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Huercal-Overa CF 1 Plus Ultra 0

Huercal-Overa started the second half of the season with a victory at home in front of a good size crowd at El Hornillo. Expat left back Lee Spires put in another to display for the Andalucian side who currently sit in second and looking good for a play off spot.

Moreno got the only goal of the game in the 46th minute, with Mansour going close late in the game. Next up is an away trip to Caravaca. Vamos Huercalenses. Pictures: Gines Martinez, http:// huercaloveraface.es/

SOL SPORT & MOTORING

Marina Phoenix Golf Society

Members returned after the Christmas and New Year break, at Marina Phoenix to play an individual stableford on Monday. With 36 points George Waghorn took the honours followed by Rod Ambrose (35) and Antonio Ubeda (34) in third. Isobel Jones 32 won the ladies division from Margaret Budd (30) and June Nicol (28) third. Eleven teams contested the team game, on Thursday. With the best two to count on each hole the winners were Bob Craig, Isobel Jones and José Nistal on 74 points. Second place went to June Nicol, Sheila Watts and Don Atkins (72) and third were Kenny Nicol, Mike Schorfield and Val Cook (71). There were nearest the pin prizes for Alan Cook (14th), Rod

Mondays Winners Ambrose (17th) and Marcos Caparros (5th). Marina Phoenix play Mondays (individual) and Thursdays (team game). To join us for a €25 greenfee. Jim on 950 162 727 / 600 353 670 Rosalie 950 397 117/ 697 512 882.

thursdays Winners

urcal golf society

Twenty two members of Urcal Golf Society took part in the Society´s Stroke Play Cup, on January 10th at Aguilon. Considering most members had not picked up a club since well before Christmas, playing a stroke play event for the first event of the year was a very bold decision which certainly was met with mixed emotions from the members. However, the weather was warm and sunny after a cold start, but even so some members took longer than the weather to warm up before converting lots of effort into some decent scores. Garry Funnell playing off 12 handicap come in with a very creditable gross 80 for a winning score of net 68, three under par. Barry Kilby continuing his good form from last year finished runner up one stroke behind with a net 69. Two players tied on net 75, John Smith & Tony Cook with John taking third place on count back. The scores from the remainder of

the field were reminiscent of the old cowboy film, The Good, The Bad and the Ugly with several double figures scores on some holes. The lesser prizes were won by Stan Whitty who had the longest drive of the day on the 6th hole, Tony Morgan who was nearest the Pin on the 17th and Brian (4 Iron) Hughes with nearest the Pin on the 8th Hole. Tony and Brian converted their nearest the pin shots to win a share of the prize for a two and where joined by Les Brice with one of his usual trick shots, holing out for a two from the bunker on the 3rd hole. Even allowing for the scores a really good day was had by all and it was really nice to be in among the friendly banter once again. Anyone wishing to join our friendly society please contact Captain Steve Dodd on 608 238 827

Full Alarm System Full CCTV Fully Insured You are welcome to visit our premises to view before parking

40 SOLTIMES JANUARY 2015

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Barcelona’s big guns stopped an Atlético who were forced to defend and fight for a comeback in the dying minutes. It was night for celebration in the Camp Nou, and not just because Leo Messi received the trophy for the top goal-scorer in the history of La Liga. The defending champions, Atlético Madrid, were visiting Barcelona on matchday 18 of the Liga BBVA, and FC Barcelona played their best football of the season in a match that finished 3-1. Despite the Rojiblancos’ solidity early in the game, the Azulgrana strikeforce doused the hopes of Diego Pablo Simeone’s men in the 12th minute. A shot from Neymar across Miguel Ángel Moyà’s goal opened the scoring and gave Barcelona even more confidence. Later it was Luis Suárez, thanks to a great move led by Messi, who increased the lead over an Atlético who were hanging on for the break to try and find something.

Tel 902 750 190

Find something they did; after the restart the side from the capital scored their first goal with a penalty that was converted by Mario Mandžukić. The goal made it 2-1 and breathed new life into the match and into the Rojiblancos, who were challenging for every ball in order to fight back. However, the game ended with a goal from Messi in the 88th minute. The 3-1 result was enough for Barcelona to send a message to an always-tricky opponent. Lfp.es

Suárez, Neymar and Messi on target for Barça

Chill Out with us !! THE STAFF AT CHILL OUT WOULD LIKE TO WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY NEW YEAR. Due to expansion, we now have a number of apartments and duplexes for long or short term rental in Almerimar, as well as holiday rentals. We are a family run business and offer a full range of services to our clients, giving you a one stop shop for all your property requirements. Property Management/Key holding Security checks Rentals, including meet and greet Cleaning/Laundry Repairs and maintenance Painting and decorating Electrical work (by UK qualified engineer) Refrigeration and air conditioning (by UK qualified engineers) If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact Pete or Pat on 665611238 info@chilloutwithus.eu www.chilloutwithus.eu

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