ISSUE 457
Property management Sales & Rentals
see our main advert on back page
Tel: 663 426 921 info@enviapropertyservices.com www.enviapropertyservices.com
8 - 14 oct
SolTimes CK ME UP’est. SINCE 2005 YOUR ESSENTIAL WEEKLY ‘PI
your free weekly newspaper
SEE OUR MAIN ADVERT ON PAGE 12
La Grappa Authentic Italian Restaurant
• Argentinian BBQ every night • Pizzas • Fresh Pastas • Fresh Fish • Argentinian BBQ’d Food On The Terrace BBQ & Menu del Dia EVERY DAY
roquetas & almerimar
www.soltimes.com
Relaxed, friendly bar and restaurant serving great food, drinks and tapas
fish & chip shop open last friday of the month Calle Faro, Almerimar
At the entrance to the port
Tel: 950 563 560
Flu and the Flu Vaccine Page 12
delicious puddings
Pages 28 - 29
950 334 188
Catering for to reserve your table special occasions Open 12 - 4pm 7 - 12.30am Weddings Next to Hotel Playa Sol Communions etc. Roquetas de Mar
JAKS
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 now in stock 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
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
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
READ THE SOL TIMES ONLINE @ WWW.SOLTIMES.COM
2
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
DONT MISS OUR AUCTION THIS
SATURDAY
A
11th October
11am
UCTION
Buy Buy Auction Subasta
In the Pink House
Now available to download our free catalogue from www.buybuyauctions.com VIEWING: Fri 10th October All Day & Sat from 9:30am lots to include, special for this auction-Lots of antiques, large quantity OVER 600of garden furniture in teak and metal, together with a wide selection of
childrens items. The usual household furniture to include: Outdoor furniture, bedroom, dining, sofas, carpets, pictures, mirrors, giftware, chairs, garden tools, professional tools, electric items, fridges, cookers, TV’s, video’s, DVD’s, musical equipment, microwaves, kitchenware, bicycles, quads etc..
Free ion Collect
Take advantage of our offers
ish, , Span h s i l g eak En rench, We sp ,F Dutch ic & Italian b n, Ara Germa
You can buy at our Auction shop everyday
Immed iat Payou e Cash t Optio n
Lowest C omm Rates in S ission pai Buyers & n for Sellers
We Open Mon - Sat from 10am - 5pm
We are closer than you think!!
Only 10 mins from Huercal-Overa, Antas & Arboleas & 15 mins from Albox, Vera & Mojacar Turn your unwanted items into immediate cash. We buy anything from cars, caravans & bicycles to household items.
Tel: 681 095 096 & 679 207 545 www.buybuyauctions.com info@buybuyauctions.com
Directions & Map Take exit 543 from A7 motorway head towards La Concepcion We are the large pink building on the right Approximately 3.5km
Direcciones y mapas Toma la salida 543 desde la autovia A7 camino hacia La Concepcion, Estamos en el gran edificio rosa a la derecha Approximadamente a 3.5km
Albox
E-15
Los Carasoles
HuercalOvera
A534
Arboleas
A534
A7
La Alfoquia
547
El Palaces
Zurgena
PINK HOUSE La Concepcion
A7 E-15
543
AntasVera
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
www.soltimes.com
News
Spanish castle up for grabs for €3.5 million
3
Winter warmers FOR JUST 5€
We will deliver your order to The Sol Times office in Los Carasoles, near Cucador. ELECTRIC or better still UNDERBLANKETS 4.5 tog from 15€ call in to see Single from 21.99€ 10.5 tog from 20€ all the fabulous Double From 29.99€ products for 13.5 tog from 22€ King from 34.99€ yourself.
Duvets
A man’s home is his castle, the saying goes, and in the case of Butrón Castle, this could hardly be more true. Located 19 kilometres (12 miles) from Bilbao in the Basque municipality of Gatika, this landmark building is set to go under the hammer, but you’ll need at least €3.5 million ($4.5 million) to make an opening bid in the auction which begins on Tuesday. Your money will buy you a medieval castle which was completely remodelled at the end of the 19th century. The home has total floor space of 2,400 square metres (25,800 square feet), while the grounds are a massive
35,000sqm. It’s in great condition according to auctioneers BNP Paribas Real Estate. There’s also the added bonus of snapping up the only Romantic style castle on sale in Spain. The property boasts four turrets, an old chapel, a well with natural spring water, a parade ground and — of course — a dungeon. For the more practically minded, the castle also has two bathrooms, a kitchen, heating, outdoor parking and a cellar. Bids close on October 21st. Source: www.thelocal.es
From fleecy underblankets to flannelette bedding and faux fur throws, we have everything you need to keep warm and cosy this winter. You´ll also find lined curtains, rugs, draught excluders & hot water bottles.
NEW! FEATHER PILLOW PAIR JUST 19.99€ the
yorkshire linen co.
home furnishing specialists
Closer than you think
Free parking above Mercadona, opposite Lidl Monday to Friday 10.00 - 18.00, Saturday 10.00 - 14.00 Centro Comercial la Pirámide, Puerto de Mazarrón, Murcia
Call: 968 595 946 / 650 857 619 www.yorkshirelinen.com - ylcmazarron@hotmail.com
Just Dream & We’ll Make Your Dreams Come True
We need new properties for rent and sale!
Los Carasoles - Zurgena (04661) ALMERIA -SPAIN
for rent
HIGUERALES (ARBOLEAS) Lovely villa with spectacular views on a 1.000m2 plot. 3 bed, 2 bath, big kitchen, fireplace and pool 8x4. Fully furnished. Very quiet area. Very near to Albox. Including the cost of Electricity.
500€ monthly
FOR rent
LOS GARCÍA (ARBOLEAS)
Very nice villa on a spacious plot with 3 bed, 2 bath, fitted kitchen and lounge with fireplace, big porch. Lovely views and quiet area.
400€ monthly
office: +34 950 43 82 21 / 636 205 070 Spanish Antonio +34 661 90 41 19 opening Times 9:00h to14:00h
www.newhorizonvillas.com
newhorizonvillasalmeria@gmail.com info@newhorizonvillas.com
VILLAS FOR RENT URGENTLY REQUIRED For total peace of mind leave your property management to us, we will handle everything for you.
New Horizon Villas also provides the following services: All types of building work reforms, plumbing, electricity, painting & excavation works. Estimates at no cost!
DUPLEX FOR SALE (BIG OFFER)
Lovely duplex with very nice views. Has a total of 101,30 sq meters built, fully fitted kitchen with white goods, communal pool, patio, terrace, private parking space and garden. Very quiet area.
49.000€
for rent
PIEDRA AMARILLA (ALBOX)
Villa on a 1.000m2 plot with 3 bed, 2 bath, big fitted kitchen, lounge-diner with fireplace, conservatory, storage room and pool 8x4m2. Fully furnished. Very quiet area with spectacular views.
450€ monthly
FOR rent Villa arboleas
Villa on a 600m2 plot with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, fitted kitchen, lounge and storage room. Very nice views.
400€ monthly
4
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
News
Huercal Overa hospital sees all its surgeries closed – for good?
It seems that Huercal Overa Hospital is being turned into nothing more than a massive ward, as it hasn’t performed any surgeries for the last three months; and surgeons aren’t expected to return for the rest of this year. The PP have tabled a question in the regional parliament asking if the Andaluz Health Service intends to reopen the surgeries, which have been closed over the summer, in the new year, but no response has been given yet. As a result, anyone needing an operation has to go to Almeria or El
Ejido hospitals, but health unions are warning that waiting lists are soaring as a result, as the two hospitals there are also understaffed. In other health news, a further 30 beds have been decommissioned at Huercal Overa hospital as a cost cutting measure. Massive, yet secret, cuts to the regional health service means Andalusia now has the longest waiting lists of any Spanish region, and Almería has the fewest hospital beds per head of population in the region. Source: www.davidjackson.info
Only one Spanish uni makes world’s top 200
el Cucador
Saturday 11th October 4pm til late
CHARITY DANCE
Rod Oxley in the Garden 4pm IARA Brian Dee live from 8pm €5 includes food Raffle All ticket proceeds to go to the charities come and support a great these good causes
TICKETS FROM A.P.S.A. SHOP, TOTAL ENTERTAINMENT, LIVING DESIGN AND ESSENTIALS ORGANISERS - 637546738/661073712 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK PLEASE CALL 950 634 562 or emial lavidacucador@gmail.com
Limited use of English could help explain why only one Spanish university, Barcelona’s Pompeu Fabra, is among the top 200 in the world, the editor of the newly published Times Higher Education rankings has told The Local. Barcelona’s Pompeu Fabra is the only Spanish institution to feature in the top 200 of the new THE ranking. A further five Spanish universities featured in the top 400 worldwide, while three others dropped have out of the high profile list since 2013. “In any nation where austerity’s hurt a bit harder, we’re starting to see some pressure,” rankings editor Phil Baty said to The Local, speaking about the new results. “Spain’s made some fairly significant moves. Pompeu Fabra University’s stood firm at 165th. It’s not all doom and gloom but they (Spanish universities) are certainly behind,” said Baty. “That’s especially true when (Spain is) compared to South Korea, China, Singapore, where there’s been government-backed investment,” he added. “There seem to be an issue around the Mediterranean universities not doing so well, whereas the Nordic countries and Germany seem to be doing well,” Baty explained, speaking more generally about the rankings. He said successful universities were “more willing to use English”, and highlighted Germany’s focus on
international collaborations.” “There is an issue that the majority of leading journals tend to be in English,” he said, as the rankings use citations from 13,000 journals charted by Thomson Reuters. “There is a challenge for European universities that English has become the lingua franca of research,” Baty said. In order to improve their international reputation, universities must also look at their ties to power. “Are they at arms’ length from government?” Baty asks. “US and UK universities have a large amount of autonomy from the state. They have state funding but they are independent institutions.” It is no coincidence that such universities are the best in the world, the rankings editor said: “This leads to a healthy culture of free inquiry on campus. It also allows them to be entrepreneurial; to behave a bit more like businesses and be dynamic.” In Spain, apart from Pompeu Fabra, the five Spanish universities to make the top 400 were Barcelona University, the Autonomous University of Barcelona, the Autonomous University of Madrid, the University of Barcelona and the University of Navarre. Dropping out of the list were Catalonia’s Rovira i Virgili University, Valencia Polytechnic University and Vigo Univeristy. The California Institute of Technology held on to the world number Sue Woodcock would like to thank all one spot for the fourth of her kind friends for their donations consecutive year, ahead of Harvard University to ‘Little Owls’ in second and the A total of 350€ was raised for which University of Oxford in third. they were very Rounding out the grateful. top five were Stanford University in the US and the UK’s Cambridge Thank you all for your University. generosity Source: www.thelocal. es/
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
www.soltimes.com
News
5
Club de tenis albox restaurante
Menu del dia fri - sun only €12
Combination Plate from €7 Mon - tues - wed
Spain’s new King still Europe’scheapest
The Spanish government announced last Tuesday that the budget for the country’s Royal Family will be frozen at €7.78 million ($9.8 million) in 2015, making Spain’s new King Felipe Europe’s cheapest monarch. Spain’s ruling Popular Party will allocate the exact same budget to Felipe VI as it did for his father and predecessor King Juan Carlos. Last year, the PP used the sum to defend the existence of Spain’s royal family, arguing that it cost each Spaniard only 17 Euro cents ($0.23) a year. That in turn made and continues to make Spain’s royal family the cheapest in Europe, with 2012 estimates suggesting the Dutch royals lead the way with an annual €40 million cost for their taxpayers. Since the beginning of the economic crisis in Spain in 2008, the royal budget has progressively dropped from €8.66 million to the current €7.78 million, with 2015 marking the first time in five years the royals haven’t taken a pay cut. That hasn’t stopped the Spanish monarchy’s popularity from waning
following King Juan Carlos’s controversial elephant hunting trip in Botswana and the ongoing fraud case in which Princess Cristina and her husband Iñaki Urdangarin are involved. Following his father’s surprise abdication in June, Felipe VI has attempted to clean up this tarnished image by allowing the royal account books to be audited by an external government agency. The 46-year-old king is attempting to modernize the monarchy in every way possible, from receiving representatives from Spain’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) groups for the very first time in Spain’s royal history to going to heading out for gin and tonics with friends in downtown Madrid without the queen. The announcement of the royal budget for 2015 came as Spain published its budget for 2015 on Tuesday, a document which also sees Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy freezing his own annual wages at €78,185 and those of his ministers at €68,981 a year. Source: www.thelocal.es
Closed Thursdays
Carne a la Brasa - Tapas Birthdays - Business Meals All kinds of special occasions restclubtenisalbox@yahoo.es
Tel 667 671 578 See website for more details
www.visionstream.international Call for home demo on
634 342 356
THE MOST ADVANCED IPTV SET TOP BOX IS AVAILABLE NOW FOR €180
THIS ANDROID SYSTEM SYSTEM THIS IS NOT AN ANDROID & YOU DO NOT NOT NEED NEED AA DISH DISH Various viewing packages available Over 130 channels inc all BBC, ITV, 4 & 5 channels Movies On Demand 7 Day catch up on selected channels Dedicated Sports package available inc BT Sports 1 & 2, Sky Sports 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, F1 & English Premier League Live No Contract, Pay monthly or save money & pay 1/2 yearly or yearly Demonstrated & Set up in your own home, usually the same day Local support on hand OUR NEW MAGic 254 BOX IS SO SMALL IT WILL FIT IN YOUR POCKET & YOU CAN RECIEVE YOUR CHOSEN PACKAGE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD VIA INTERNET CONNECTION
Translations, Conveyancing, NIE, Wills & Inheritance Residencias, Cadastre, Notary / Court Appearances, etc.
We speak English, Spanish, French and Swedish Calle Dinamarca, Mojacar Playa Tel: 646 844 708 www.4wayconnections.webs.com Email: 4wayconnections@gmail.com
Pellet Stoves, Biomass Boilers & Solar Water Heating Solutions Murcia, Almeria & Alicante, Contact us for a no obligation chat to discuss your requirements Neil Broadbridge T: +34 697 949 519 E: info@solpellet.com W: www.solpellet.com
insurance!
• • • • • • • •
Home • Motors Life Cover • Commercial Communities Pets • Golf Private Health Care Funeral Cover Fast & Efficient Service? Your Policy in English?
Wood Pellet Fires & Boilers
We supply High Quality Italian manufactured Pellet stoves utilising the very latest technology and design.
Solar Water Heating
Call me - Maxine Morgan
669 074 996
New office within Forget Me Not Mon, Wed, Thurs, Frid Email me: Next Stop Almeria office maxine.morgan@exclusivos.libertyseguros.es Tues Registered DGSFP CO467X03401672H
With so much sunshine available in Spain, why not utilise this to provide your hot water. Simple solutions using proven technology.
Safe Grip Non Slip Floor Treatment
Safe Grip is a transparent anti slip solution, that can be applied to a variety of surfaces, both internal & external, radically improving the slip resistance when wet.
6
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
www.ecocorpshop.com Special Offers Visit:
Oil is a child of the fossil fuel age and prices will trend upwards. Solar is a child of the electronics age and prices will trend downwards. Oil may last a few years or a few hundred years. The sun will last a few billion years. All of the oil coal and gas known to humans has the same energy as 20 days of sunshine reaching earth!
Which one would you choose?
5Kw power systems with batteries installed from 5995€
3kw power systems with batteries installed from 4995€
Swimming pool heating From 1995€ fitted
Solar water heaters 200L 1995€ fitted
1 x Victron Multiplus 5Kw inverter/Charger 1 x Victron BlueSolar MPPT 150/70 Solar charge controller 4 x 12V/250Ah Deep cycle batteries (48V/250Ah) 12 x 250W Eurener panels (25 Year guarantee @ 80%) 1 x Inox aluminium Mounting frame for 12 panels. Cables, connectors, fuses and breakers. This system is normally 11,495€ installed.
If you are getting frustrated at ever increasing electricity bills and want a clean, reliable energy alternative that can run in conjunction with your mains electricity. A system that you can add to, as and when you or your budget requires. free consultation and survey. With solar power systems that can pay for themselves in around 6/7 years. No more power cuts, we can supply and install a system to provide your whole home with a UPS system.
October special (only 8 available)
With some of the highest sunshine in Europe, it is a great time to consider solar energy to reduce your electricity bills.
for 9995€
with a free solar water heater included!!!!
Victron Energy Official Installers for Almeria and Murcia 5 year warranty Spanish qualified Installers The latest in auto-consumo technology! Grid tie solar power systems from
3995€
These systems can have more panels added to as and when required. Self-monitoring so as no power is fed back to the grid!
Call Ecocorp on
Eurener, Sharp, Senersun official Installers Servicing, repairs and surveys Grid tie systems Off grid systems Water heating Swimming pool heating
671 716 597 or 950 930 187 for a no obligation quotation
La Meseta, Bedar, Almeria
WWW.ECOCORPSHOP.COM
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
www.soltimes.com
A.C.T. Buy 1 get 2 FREE !
ACT, the Almanzora Charitable Theatre group who exist specifically to raise funds for charities in the Almanzora valley, have pulled the stops out this autumn for their next supper show. Each ticket-holder will get not only ONE 2-course meal but will also be entertained with TWO oneact plays. This show will support “Helping Animals Almanzora” who do a wonderful job on behalf of all abandoned and abused animals in the Almanzora area. At their usual venue of “La Parrilla” in Albox, where seating is of ‘diners-club’ style, ACT’s first offering is “Heads”. This
is a family affair which brings about the reunion of a mother and daughter who have not spoken to each other for many years, and a second daughter who has given-up trying to intermediate, plus the tiresome yet necessary task of completing official documents in order for the future to progress - which, itself, has yet to be determined! So who will win? Who will have the last word? Or the last laugh…?? After supper, and in complete contrast, the second play is set in historical Spain when the landed-gentry would betroth their daughters to their own choice of suitor. Needless to say, this particular daughter has her own ideas about that - as does her duena-governess who, with the house-
7
News el Cucador
In Rehearsals maids, is in it up to her neck! Does the plan work? Will a betrothal take place? Does the duena have her own agenda? This “Fiesta Fandango” will keep you on your toes until the final fiasco! Can you bear to miss it?!
An Evening of Clairvoyance With Psychic Medium Carol Bohmer and Sandy Ingham Psychic Artist
The Venue is La Parrilla Restaurant, Albox, with meal options of Fish, Chicken or Vegetarian.
Tuesday 21st October 7pm till 10pm including Refreshment break Tickets 15e
The dates are Fri. Sat and Sun, 7th, 8th and 9th November 2014. Timings thus: Fri 7th and Sat 8th November, EVENING performances both days. Doors Open 6.30-pm, Curtain Up 7pm, Supper 8pm, Show ends approx 10pm Sunday 9th November performance only.
MATINEE
Doors Open 3.30pm, Curtain Up 4pm, Meal 5pm, Show ends aprx 7pm Price: ONLY €12.50 per ticket (absolute bargain!) and available from Girasol & OneStop-Pool-Shop in Albox, and Essentials and Helping Animals Almanzora, both in Arboleas. Please support us for our charity.
THE UK FOR 1
NIGHT ONLY
Tickets from Sol Times, La Vida, Jacks, Sophia Fitness Centre, Total Entertainment Arboleas and Albox or ring Margaret Levey on 600 055 209
Live in Spain
for more than
t us n e it e or vis inm r m n ta Fo atio ter ox b rm En Al fo l n In ota i T in
RELAX IN THE SUN
FLYING IN FRO M
4 weeks per year?
- YOU’VE GOT IT COVERED! Living in Spain can be a delight when you know you’ve got everything covered - especially essentials such as funeral arrangements
Then ensure your finances and assets are protected Avalon Funeral Plans offer peace of mind
Living the dolce vita in Spain can be a heavenly experience; but it does depend on an easy mind, knowing you’ve got everything sorted - especially should the unexpected happen. Of course no-one wants to think about the ultimate in unwanted occurrences, but if you’re considering funeral plans, it’s worth putting your own plan in place to avoid the complexities of the Spanish system, which involves the Police, a doctor, a funeral director, various certificates, high costs - and dealing with non-English-speakers.
Avalon Funeral Planning - a reassuring solution Happily though, there is an easy, straightforward and cost-effective solution - Avalon Funeral Planning. A well-established UK funeral planning company, Avalon creates easily accessible funeral plans specifically for UK expatriates in Spain. As Europe’s leading provider of funeral plans, Avalon offers different packages, ranging from a simple local funeral to full repatriation, handling the many details that need to be dealt with under Spanish law. Avalon’s Spanish service is fully bilingual - and the company understands the need for exceptional competence at a time when family members may be distressed and distracted. If you’d like to find out more about arranging your Spanish funeral plan, call Avalon today on 966 799 070 or 951 120 046 to arrange an appointment - then you can relax in the Spanish sun, reassured that you’ve got everything covered!
Avalon supply a FREE, CONFIDENTIAL and NO OBLIGATION advice service CALL US TODAY ON :
966 799 070 or 951 120 046 to arrange an appointment
We cover all our members in the UK and Spain
Purchase a pre-paid Funeral Plan from Avalon and we take care of all the arrangements
www.avalonfuneralplans.com
8
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
Crystal Cave joins
Serendipity
What’s Your Lucky Charm?
Crystal Angels Energy Stones Jewellery Birth Stones Hanging Crystals We are now stocking all your Christmas Crafts plus all your usual crafty bits & bobs crystalmanofalmeria@hotmail.com Avda. 28 de Febrero, Albox (Between Sol y Mar / The Post Shop & Jacks)
Crystal Man of Almeria is
now in Serendipity Opening hours:10am - 2pm Mon - Sat We will be happy to open outside these hours!
now open on wednesday
BP Garage
624 699624 617699 Tel:617 Tel:
•••
Baza
Arboleas
Av .L
ep
an
to
Crystal Cave
albox insurance est 7 years
Multi Award winning agent
▪ 50€ cash back offer
on any motor policy 400€ or more ▪ any house policies 225€ or more
50€ cash back
(not for renewals/replacements - conditions apply)
Please contact: Glenn & jayne
950 121 943
albox Inford@tox your friendly computing shop in Albox – pop in this month for amazing offers on your home-computing needs – special discounted prices on Laptops, Tablets, Smartphones, Printers, Anti-virus Software and much much more! Pick up a catalogue in-store for details. You can also buy SIM cards for any mobile phone (and Raquel can also top up your mobile phone’s existing SIM)! Also, Raquel offers an excellent technical service and speaks good English, so you’ll have no problems being understood!! Find Inford@tox at Longo’s Square or for more information call 950 633 223 or check out Facebook. Jax Hair & Beauty Salon situated opposite Bar Toni in Calle Parrales. Jenny is Toni & Guy trained with 15 years experience, hairdressing in Albox for 9 years, previously at Strictly Hair. All hair needs are covered at competitive prices, for men, women & children, with free advice given when required. Jenni has Sky working alongside her: Sky is a ‘hairdo” specialist, perfect for that special occasion and she is also offering some Autumn specials: Full Head Tint & Blowdry 23.50€, Re-touch Tint & Blowdry 16€, Blowdry only 7.50€. Salon opening hours are Tuesday to Friday 10am-3pm, a warm welcome awaits you.
STEVE HAYES INFORMATICA
Serving the local community since 2003
• PC’s • Laptops • Printers etc... • Sales & Repairs • On-site Call Out &Tuition • Consumables
www.shinform.net info@shinform.net
Rambla Café Richard and Jill in the Rambla Café have been serving good quality food for over 5 years. They have an extensive breakfast menu including their best-selling bacon and egg on homemade toast, scrambled egg and bacon meal and the popular full English breakfast The light lunchesmenu is great for a cheaper alternative to menu of the day and can include their homemade Cajun chicken wrap or hot rustic roll with melted cheese. B.L.T., Coronation chicken and Italian chicken sandwiches are just a small selection of the lunch menu. The Rambla Café has many more lunches, main meals and breakfasts for under five euros as well as other dishes at an array of varied prices. They are located in Albox over the road from Dynos “Digitalbox”, next door to “Visionlive” and around the corner from “Mario the laywer” Crystal Cave - The Crystal Man of Almeria is now in Albox, you will find him next door to Jacks Bar in the shop that was formerly Serendipity. John will be previously offering all the stock that was previously on sell, along with his fantastic range of Crystals, Birth Stones and much more. So get on down to the Crystal Cave and check out Johns Crystal Balls. Driver - your local garage situated behind the BP garage in Albox. Paco and the team offer a full range of services including all makes of tyres new and used, ITV renewal, tracking alignment, oil changes, diagnostics and repairs, brakes, dampers, and accessories.
Telephone 950 120 900
Contact us on Skype at Shinform
infoalbox.libertyseguros@gmail.com
THE NEARLY NEW SHOP MUEBLES Y MAS
Tel: 642 953 309
new stock
Including: Novelties, Dream Catchers, Hen Party, Glo Sticks & Much More
www.youwantitihaveit.com Avda. 28 de Febrero No 30. Albox C.P 04800
JAX Hair&Beauty
look good, feel good with our full range of treatments
Refresh your colour for Autumn Full Head Tint incl. Blowdry - 23.50€ Re-Touch Tint incl. Blowdry 16€ Special Offer Blowdry - only 7.50€ Book your appointment with Sky Opposite Bar Toni In Old Town, Albox
Tlf. 645 560 367 Tuesday - Friaday 10am - 3pm
TRE
BAR - RESTAURANT CERRO GORDO
whatever your favourite meal
we will cook it for you Sunday Lunch
3 course Only 8.50€ Booking is Essential - Sat Nav co-ordinates N37° 24.511 W002° 11.479 EL556 Call for all enquiries & reservations Tel: 650 599 739 / 950 930 169
www.bistrobonita.alittlebitofengland.es
CEN
Tyres, Services, Spare Parts & Rapid Mechanic repairs Neumaticos y Servicios Albox, S.L Behind the BP, 04800 Albox (Almeria) Tel: 950 430 855 - Fax: 950430 855
albox@grupo-driver.com
A CHIMNEY OR FLUE NEEDS CLEANING ONCE A YEAR! WHY?
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF A CHIMNEY FIRE BY REMOVING SOOT AND TAR
FOR PEACE OF MIND BOOK YOUR SWEEP TODAY
FOR A FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL, CLEAN, SERVICE CALL PAUL ON 617150300 OR 850993057 TAKING BOOKINGS FOR SEPTEMBER CALL NOW
A CLEAN CHIMNEYIS A SAFE CHIMNEY!
9
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
www.soltimes.com
albox Your local Spanish school!
The Best school for people like you!
Would you like to learn Spanish? Do your children need some help with Spanish & homework? New groups starting in October Tlf. 661 162 201 Email: mariadalia2003@hotmail.com (Preferable to be contacted via email) In Arboleas, opposite Town Hall
Bar lepanto
Opening Thursday, Friday & Saturday Evenings from the 8th of May
open sunday for breakfast & football
Lepanto 26, Albox Tel 642 906 638 email: kimking09@outlook.com ino
de A
ljam
bra
r
tado
THE LITTLE SHOP THAT’S GOT A LOT
Cam
l Ru
Lulu’s Dog Grooming Parlour - City & Guilds trained Lisa looks after and handles all dogs with the utmost care. Lisa opened after years of working for various vets in and around the area. So much was the demand for her skills that she opened parlour of her own next to Eurowise on Avda.
to advertise in the next albox feature give PAULETTE a call on: 950 121 936
specials served daily
e de
Punto Casi Nuevo – The Nearly New Shop Visit Punto Casi Nuevo on their new website www. youwantitihaveit.com where you will find great deals on all toiletries, furniture, household products and much more. Click and collect or parcel service available. Or if you are passing why not come in and browse around. We are still offering all the usual services which include transportation of all your goods and pets to the UK. We are fully registered DEFRA & TRACE
Lepanto. Your pet will certainly be pampered after a visit there! Lisa also stocks a wide accessories for your pooch., plus Scalibor, flea, tick & dental treatments and the cheapest prices on Royal Canine food in the area! Now Closed on Mondays. For more information or to book an appointment call 950 952 940 / 697 569 750
Call
THE CORNER SHOP´s policy is to give the best service & best prices in the area. We are an ‘Aladdins Cave’ of all your favourite foods, drinks, household, pet products & more from the UK. We stock a selection of wines from Bodega Regino of Puerto Lumbreras which are very popular, we do mobile phone top ups including some UK & we now have ice creams & lollies to keep you cool! If there is something we don’t have then we will gladly try to source it for you. Our website is updated regularly with our Special Offers & other information. www. alboxcornershop.com We are easy to find; from the traffic lights on the main road turn into Avd. Lepanto, go up past Mercadona, carry on straight up until you reach the crossroads (IBEX Insurance on corner), turn right, carry straight on past Bar Coyote & we are further down on your right (next door to the tile yard). We have a large car park for you convenience. Our opening hours are: 9 – 5.30 Monday to Friday, 10 to 4 Saturdays, 10 to 2 Sundays. We look forward to seeing you!
The Corner Shop
mercadona
We have the largest selection of your favourite goods in the area, and at the best prices too! All direct from the UK. Check our website for all the latest SPECIAL OFFERS
WWW.ALBOXCORNERSHOP.COM
12” Christmas Cake Drums, Red & Green
Mixed Spice 50g 99c
Mixed Dried Fruit 500g Christmas Cake Frills
BP
Whitworths French Glace Cherries 200g €1.99
We have everything in stock for your NOW IN STOCK €2.10 €1.60 per metre homemade Christmas cakes! €4.80 For your convenience you can pull up outside or we have a large carpark. We are only 2 minutes from Mercadona. Opening Hours Mon – Fri 9-5:30, Sat 10-4, Sun 10-2
Tel: 950 930 539 Pay us a visit soon, you will love our prices!
computer services
Pop in & see Raquel for details of our new products
open Mon - Fri 9am - 2pm/4pm - 7.30pm & Sat 10am - 2pm
Visit Us on the web: www.infordatox.com Phone: 950 633 223 Next to the Centro Comercial LONGO Find us on
EUROWISE
UK SUPERMARKET
Spend at least 10€ & get when you present this advert now available post boxes
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Peluqueria Canina
professional dog grooming parlour Lisa is City & Guilds qualified she sets the standard Others Try to follow Nail Clipping and Anal Glands - Only 5€ each! No need for appointment
call 697 569 750 for appointments Open 10.30am - 6pm Tuesday - Friday
Avda LePanto, 20, 04800, Albox, next door to Eurowise
Tel: 950 952 940 . 697 569 750
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SOLTIMES october 2014
ALMERIMAR & roquetas Advertisers publish your special events here. Charity/community groups events also published FREE of charge. --------------------------------------almerimar local information keep up to date with what’s happening in Almerimar: www.facebook.com/ localinformation
Advertise your business on this page or send your events to:
EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM and WE’LL PRINT THEM FREE OF CHARGE!
Indian Spicy Curry House Specialities Chicken & Beef Curries Tapas served all day Chef from Punjab (India) everybody welcome
Open every day: 12 noon - late
Calle Varadero, Almerimar. Tel 950 033 244 Mob. 632 574 591
For all your local advertising needs call Mark on 693 774 932
THE RBL GO TO NEW YORK
Thursday 25th September saw twenty-eight members and friends of the Roquetas De Mar branch of the RBL attend a Poppy Appeal luncheon at Restaurante New York New York, in the Urbanisation. The group met for a menu-del-dia in aid of this year’s Poppy Appeal and, a total of €84.00 was raised during the afternoon. Grateful thanks go to all members and friend of the branch, who made the afternoon a success. This year’s appeal total now stands at €1,203.00, with ‘Remembrancetide’ fast approaching, next month. Many thanks also to Adrian and his crew at New York, which included Colin, Sadie and Aaron for their service during the meal. Why not ‘be part of it’ and drop in to see Adrian and sample his delights?
Sara’s German adventures
SARA was abandoned at the shelter when she was only a little puppy, together with her sister SONYA. Whilst SONYA found her forever home in Germany last year, SARA was left behind at the shelter. Finally at the end of this summer she was finally chosen for adoption in Germany. When she left the shelter everyone was happy for her and thought that from now on she would be a happy dog. However, shortly after the arrival of the van at her destination, her stroke of good luck seemed to change. When the cage was opened, she was so terrified that she escaped into the fields and could not be captured. Naturally a big search action was started. Although she was sighted by several different people SARA would not come near them. After a couple of days, during which time nobody knew how or where she found food, she came back into the garden of her foster home to grab some food. Then she was off again into the countryside. Her foster mum was desperate, but finally with the help of a trap she got hold of SARA. The amazing thing is that SARA seemed so happy to finally have a home that she let herself be caressed and cuddled. She also frolicked with the other dogs in the house as if nothing had ever happened. This whole incident goes to prove that extreme care
El Ejido Rugby Club
Based in Almerimar, we are always looking for new players and have training sessions starting at 21.30h every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Players of all abilities welcome. The team is very sociable and after have players from beginner to experienced. We are currently in Andalucia Regional Division 2 and just about to start the second phase of the league. Home matches are usually at 12.30 on Sundays at the grass rugby pitch in Almerimar. For more information call Jonathan on 695 635 078
El Ejido Bowls Club Monday and Thursday 5pm to 7pm Ring Alison on 677 317 920 to book or for further information
has to be taken when a shelter dog comes into a new home as they would have been under a lot of stress and frightened by the new situation. They might even flee at the first chance. It also proves that street dogs are quite smart at surviving in all kinds of difficult situations. There are dogs of all sizes at the shelter, around 300 in total. All of them are yearning for a forever home. The shelter can be contacted as usual via Geoff at geoffalmeria@hotmail.com
MacGowan’s
Bar & Restaurant
10 Year
Annive
rsary
Guinness, Murphy’s Cider, Heineken, Large Selection of Spirits
10 year’s house specialities
Authentic Indian Curries, Kormas, Tikkas, Thai Curries, Large choice of German Schnitzels, Chicken Granada, Chicken Parmarella, Chilli Cheese Burrito, Chicken Kiev, Homemade Burgers and Chips plus Much, Much More!
All Our Food is Freshly Prepared
Calle Varadero Almerimar 04711 (Almeria)
Tlf. 950 609 546
SOLTIMES october 2014
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11
News
Spain pays €1.35 bn for aborted gas project
Spain’s government said Friday it will pay €1.35 billion ($1.7 billion) in compensation to a Spanish firm which was forced to stopped work on a vast underwater gas-storage project that was suspected of causing minor quakes. Known as Project Castor, the scheme aimed to store gas in a depleted oil reservoir 1.7 kilometres (1.05 miles) under the Mediterranean Sea in the Gulf of Valencia and send it via a pipeline to Spain’s national grid. The government halted operations at the facility in September 2013 after more than 200 minor earthquakes were detected in the area which geologists and environmentalists blamed on gas injections. The company which owns and operated the facility, Escal UGS, in June 2014 said
‘Naughty’ Spain comes up short on EU laws
Spain is one of the worst offenders when it comes to correctly adopting and applying European Union laws, with only Italy ranking higher in the disobedience stakes, a new European Commission report reveals. Spain had 90 EU infringement cases open against it on December 31st 2014, second only to Italy, with 104 open cases, and a long way behind league leaders Latvia which had a total of only 20 open cases. Thirteen of the open cases in Spain where for late transcription of EU laws, the process which sees member states incorporate EU law into their own legislation. The remaining 77 cases involved the incorrect application of EU laws or false transcription of that legislation. In total, there were 439 complaints against Spain in 2013 with employment being the major bugbear (100 cases) followed by justice and the environment (65 cases each). The EU made special mention of waiting times at the border between Spain and Gibraltar in its report, saying these had been the subject of a large
it was giving up its concession for the gas storage project, which was financed by the European Investment Bank. Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria said Friday that the government had decided to “freeze the installations and ban the injection or storage of gas” at the facility. It would also award Escal UGS €1.35 billion in compensation, she told a news conference. Escal UGS is majority-owned by Spanish builder ACS, with nearly 67 percent, while CLP, a group controlled by Canada’s Dundee Energy, has a 33percent stake in the firm.
number of complaints from citizens. The strained situation at this border arose after Gibraltar dropped 70 concrete blocks into the sea in July 2013, in what its government said was an attempt to create an artificial reef. The stopped Spanish fishing boats from operating close to Gibraltar’s airport runway, and Spain retaliated by carrying out stringent checks at the Gibraltar border, slowing down the traffic of both people and goods. The EU report shows that after Italy and Spain, German had the third highest number of complaints made against it last year — 297. By the end of the year, however, all but 63 cases had been resolved, giving Germany stood in seventh place in December, while Greece took third place with 79 outstanding cases. The EU union operates a scheme called EU Pilot, an online platform designed to provide legal information and act as a first port of call in complaint resolution. If cases cannot be resolved through the EU Pilot, the EU may consider a formal infringement notice. Source: www.thelocal.es
Pacar Dance School in association with Jenny Hickman are proud to announce we raised 708.96 euros (around £520) for the Macmillan Cancer Support at our Coffee Morning.
Thank you to Club de Golf Playa Serena for letting us use the room for free. Thank you to all those who baked, donated, contributed and attended. Well done everyone!
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SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
Catherine Mcandrew -(deb) DMA Hypnotherapy. HTR registered UK fully qualified hypnotherapist working from Arboleas and Mojacar.
Confidential service for stopping smoking, weight loss, fears and phobias, problems from childhood, anxiety, depression, confidence and public speaking.
Look Good
Feel Great
Tel: 950 121 936 sales@soltimes.com
also working from La Perla with Debbie James - sports massage therapist Appointments also available for past life regression
Telephone 622577379 Monica Algañaraz Over 40 years experience in physiotherapy and osteopathic treatment. General postural assessment and holistic health checks available English spoken PLEASE CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT MONICA ALGANARAZ: 695 355 381
Email: monica@centrophysis.net www.centrophysis.net EAST VALLEY (A7 Exit 529 Golf Course - Business Centre) Very near Garrucha, Turre, Los Gallardos Mojacar-Vera, Albox
kim clark benefits consultancy Do you suffer from mobility problems, breathlessness/pain or falls/stumbles? Do you need help washing / dressing or supervision? You could be entitled to extra income by claiming UK sickness / disabililty benefits while living in Spain
For advice or to book a consultation call 950 169 729 or 663 297 568 or visit www.ukbenefitsinspain.com
CLINICA DENTAL MOJACAR PARQUE COMERCIAL MOJACAR-LOC.53 MOJACAR PLAYA 04638-ALMERIA
950 47 85 34
email: clinicadentalmojacar@hotmail.com DR. GERMAN R. HUSSING BULLRICH DRA. ALICIA M. VIDAL TALMON DRA. LUCIA HUSSING VIDAL ENGLISH
SPOKEN
Osteopath
Naturopath Enrique Arias, N.D, D.O
Flu and the Flu Vaccine
Flu is a highly infectious illness that spreads rapidly through the coughs and sneezes of people who are carrying the virus. If you’re at risk of complications from flu, make sure you have your annual flu vaccine available from SEPTEMBER onwards.Because flu is caused by a virus and not bacteria, ANTIBIOTICS won’ttreat it. Anyone can get flu, but it can be more serious for certain people, such as: •people aged 65 or over •people who have a serious medical condition •pregnant women If you are in one of these groups, you’re more vulnerable to the effects of flu (even if you’re fit and healthy) and could develop flu complications, which are more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia, which could result in hospitalisation.
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open 9-3pm mon-thur
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OUR hair, BEAUTY & MASSAGE THERAPISTS ARE FULLY UK TRAINED Massage by Melissa
Benefits of massage include:
Feelings of deep relaxation Relief from stress and anxiety Improved sleep pattern Reduced muscle tension & joint pain Improved blood circulation
Melissa - Now in on Fridays from 9am
Call: 626 144 680
Beauty by Sandra Luxury Elimis Facial 1h 15min Brisa Sculpting Gel Nails Treatment Pedicure Gel Nails, Waxing Monday - Thursday 9am to 3pm
Be Pampered & Revived
Call Sandra 661 858 949
Hair by Teri Teri is fully qualified with over 20 years’ experience Salon open Wed &Thur from 9 am Call 619 467 295 Formally Cutting Edge, Albox
We are a self-contained private suite of rooms on the right hand side of La Vida Bar, El Cucador
Tel. 629 289 385
for info and appointments
Health Care For Adults and Children • Emergency Home Visits • English • Spanish • French • German • 20 Year’s Serving the community
UK Registered - Treating
Sciatica - Back Pain - Sports Injuries Digestive and Cardiovascular Disorders Headaches - Arthritis - Skin Conditions Centro Cueva Del Lobo Paseo Mediterraneo 10, Mojacar Beach Centro Medico Indalo C/ Manuel Azaña, Almeria
n / Pulp a u J n a in S equired r staff
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Flu can also make existing medical conditions worse. See your Doctor or Angel about the flu jab if you’re 65 or over, or if you have any of the following problems (however old you are): • a serious heart complaint • a chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including asthma, bronchitis and emphysema • serious kidney disease • diabetes • lowered immunity due to disease or treatment such as steroid medication or cancer treatment • if you have had a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) • if you have a problem with your spleen or you have had your spleen removed How the flu vaccine worksThe injected flu vaccine contains inactivated strains of the flu virus and therefore cannot cause flu. The flu virus in the vaccine is often grown on fertilised hens’ eggs although egg-free flu vaccine may be available for people with egg allergy.The best time of the year to have a flu vaccination is in the autumn from the beginning of October to early November. PLEASE CONTACT THE ANGELS TO BOOK YOUR FLU JAB! Even if you’ve already had a flu jab in previous years, you need another one each year. The flu jab may only protect you for a year. This is because the viruses that cause flu are always changing. How effective is the flu jab? No vaccine is 100% effective, however, people who have had the flu jab are less likely to get flu. If you do get flu despite having the jab, it will probably be milder than if you haven’t been vaccinated. The flu vaccine only protects against flu, but not other illnesses caused by other viruses, such as the common cold. Source: Almeria Angels
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
www.soltimes.com
Let us look after your home 9 Tips on how to Keep Your House Clutter-Free
1. T ackle messes one room at a time. 2. W hen you buy something new, practice the “in-out rule:” For every one new item, get rid of an old one.
www.cms-propertys.com
“BRITISH TV”
We can get the channels back!
3. C reate intimacy in the master bedroom. Remember that improvements in one room can spread to the rest of the house. 4. M ake cleaning up fun for your kids. 5. C reate a vision for the room you’re cleaning. 6. T each your kids how to sort.
BRITISH CHANNELS, OVER THE INTERNET
8. A sk yourself if you really need something. If you hesitate, you don’t.
If you don´t have a landline we can offer you a service package to suit your needs
9. E stablish a “magic triangle” in your kitchen between the stove, refrigerator and the sink. Keep the items you use most in that area.
info@cms-propertys.com Avda. Playa Serena 200, Roquetas de Mar.
7. U se a hanger system to determine which clothes you wear most.
please contact: Tel 950 334 614
Polígono Los Llanos, arboleas (opposite amigos bowling) Open Monday-friday – 0930-1830 saturday – 1000-1430
Tel: 850 99 30 90
sTOCK CLEaRanCE saLE Friday 17th October to Saturday 1st November Friday 17th and 24th October -1p.m. to 6 p.m. Come and sample food cooked in the new bakerstone Pizza Oven and on our grillstream barbecues EMaiL: infO@indaLOCiO.COM
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• • • • • • • •
Parasols from €39 Sun Loungers from €69 Bistro sets from €79 Gas Barbecues from €189 4 Seater Dining Sets from €189 4 Piece Sofa Sets from €235 Modular Corner Units from €449 Artificial Grass from €16.50m² www.indaLOCiO.COM
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SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
braben’s blog... Hello and welcome to CanDu Computer Bytes. As some of you know, I am not just an opinionated computer geek with enough experience to frighten any computer into being good and acting properly, although that does take up the vast majority of my time! I also have a love of music, not this modern rubbish that tries to pass itself off as music, but real music, pre-Beatles! Now before all you Beatles fans and those who are influenced by the younger generation start and get a strop on, let me say that this piece isn’t about the relative merits of modern audio compared to the likes of “Perry Como” but rather an observation of the youth with their ‘Earbuds’ in and especially the music from their phones. Have you ever wondered how they managed to get it on to the phones in the first place! Well for any of you that have got an android tablet then the method is really easy(ish) as it is exactly the same for most of the android phones. Before I get in to the ‘How’ of it it is only fair that you know that this information will not help anyone with a Microsoft OS or Apple iPhone based phone. As android is the most used and familiar OS used in ‘Smartphones’ today, this is the one that I will be describing. First how to connect your smartphone to your computer. Dig out the cable that came with the phone. Does it come separate from the charger or can be removed from the charger? If separate, then plug one end into the phone and the other into an empty USB port. If it isn’t separate, then you will need to hunt further into the box it came it to find it. Again, plug it into the phone and an empty USB port. If you have turned on the computer and the phone, connected the cables as recommended, you should
see the familiar symbol appear in the TaskBar of a USB device being installed. At the same time your phone should be asking you if you want to make the phone a USB device and the answer is ‘Yes’. With a few seconds to, at most, a minute (first time connections can always take longer than you want them to!), you should get another familiar window this time, that wants to know if you would like to open the device. Again the answer is ‘Yes’. As this opens, you will have to open a windows where your music is. Now you have 2 windows open! In one, the music that you would like to copy to the phone and in the other window, the folders that form the structure of your phones OS. For those that don’t already know, move your mouse over the track you want to copy and press (and hold down) the ‘Ctrl’ button (at the bottom of your keyboard) and click on the track. Repeat holding the ‘Ctrl’ button and clicking on all the tracks you want. Finally, for this window, press and hold the ‘Ctrl’ button and then press and release the ‘C’ (to Copy). Move the pointer to the ‘music’ folder in the phone’s window and click on it. Press and hold the ‘Ctrl’ button again and then press the ‘X’ to paste the copied music to its new home on your phone. Simple to see when done once but took 350 words to describe it – daft or what? And how next week I will introduce you to music players, from the simplest to the HUGELY expensive all-sing and dancing DJ Mixing programs. Have a good week but just in case you don’t – my number’s at the bottom of the page :-)
For further information or advice on computing,contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk
ABornhistory of Moorish Spain (3) in Toledo in 788AD; Abd ar- especially a person who is a saint;
Rahman II became Umayyad Emir of Cordoba on the death of his father Al Hakam I in 822AD. No stranger to controversy he’d been involved in the massacre of the ditch in 807AD. Nobles had been to Toledo supposedly to honour the then Emir. Instead as they arrived at the banquet they were all beheaded. Estimates vary from 500 to 7000 murdered souls. Abd ar-Rahman II was considered a weak ruler; reputedly he was advised by Yahya a whirling dervish; Ziryab a musician, a woman called Tarub and Nasr a eunuch who was responsible for political decisions. During his reign there were many Christian rebellions. In the past Christians were given option of paying a special tax called Jizya, banishment, or if they preferred death and martyrdom by denouncing Islam in public. Abd ar-Rahman II was responsible for the ‘Martyrs of Cordoba’ where 48 Christian believers were decapitated between 850-859AD for various crimes of blasphemy against Islam. A Hagiography is a biography that idealizes or idolizes the person
Eulogius a Cordovan priest wrote the work Exhortation to martyrdom which encouraged many voluntary martyrdoms. By coincidence his name stems from the Greek word eulogia meaning good words. To counter the voluntary martyrdoms Abd ar-Rahman II convened a special council or synod between 850-852AD; a decree was issued supported by Reccafred the Christian Bishop of Cordoba. He preached religious tolerance and sided with the Moslem authorities as he considered the martyrs religious fanatics. He threw Eulogius into prison in 852AD but this whipped up religious militancy further. Eulogius was eventually executed in 859AD after being caught sheltering an apostate Moslem girl called Leocritia who’d converted to Christianity. She was executed on March 15th a few days after Eulogius finally followed his own teachings. Alfonso II King of the Asturias constantly waged war against Abd ar-Rahman II. Over a hundred years previously around 720AD at the time of the original Moorish invasion the
Is it always us!!!
Mario Balotelli-footballer of note-once wore a tee shirt with, “Why is it always me?” printed on it. Aren’t there times when we can all sympathise with Mario on that one? Times when you have those unexplainably brainless moments, like putting petrol in the diesel engine, or trying to heat up your frozen chips in the dishwasher. Don’t panic! We’re not on our own. For reasons which at the moment escape me, a survey was carried out in America to find the exotic pet that people most wanted. Guess what 20% of the people wanted the most. If you guessed dinosaur, then give yourself a treatand some stiff medication. You’re right! It worries me though. I wonder how many of those surveyed believe Jurassic Park is real, or The Flintstones live in the next town? You have to hope that those respondents don’t have access to power tools. But if they did, then we may find them in that ultimate spectator event, the World Lumberjack Championships. If you manage to get hold of a ticket then you’ll spend three happy days watching as people do wood related things, such as, chopping it, sawing it, and then...chopping it some more! But to be fair, there’s more to it than that. Some rounds have specially constructed saws that the contestants have lovingly made over the long winter nights by attaching them to motor bike engines so that they can then use them to...chop more wood-and inflict some pretty serious wood chopping related injuries on themselves. America isn’t alone in being populated by people who should know better. The, previously, sensible Icelanders aren’t totally without quirks. Just last year, work constructing a road was stopped by campaigners. Not Greenpeace. Not WWF. Not even Save The Lava. This time it was because the road would go though elf habitat. Just in case you blinked, that’s an area lived in by elves! The constructors stopped and brought in a woman who could talk to the elves. This lady got the elves to agree that, if a huge volcanic rock, which was their chapel, was moved-which it subsequently was, at great expense-then the road could be built. I wonder if she also has a pet dinosaur, or thinks she has? Really, all I wanted to say here was, next time you do something a bit daft, you’re not on your own-thousands are dafter than all of us! Graham is married to Helen and has a daughter, Alice. He lives part of the year near Albox, but works in Qatar, teaching. If you wish to contact Graham regarding this article email: helenandg@yahoo.co.uk
Moors had let surviving Christian nobles escape north to the Asturias. Now years later the Christians had started the reconquest. King Alfonso II took Lisbon from the Moors in 798AD and up until he was stopped by Abd-ar–Rahman II in 825AD and Lisbon was retaken he had reclaimed swathes of Galicia, Leon and Castille. It’s said that King Alfonso II was the first Christian pilgrim to Santiago de Compestela after the body of Saint James was discovered there. King Alfonso II died in 842AD and has the following eulogy ‘after having held for 52 years chastely, soberly, immaculately, piously, and gloriously the government of the realm’. Al-Andalus was assailed from all sides; in 844 a fleet of 52 ships filled with AlMadjus or Norse Vikings anchored off the Lisbon coast. Landing they took Cadiz from the Moors. Sailing up the Guadalquivir River they took Seville on October 1st. The Vikings sent an ambassador to Abd ar-Rahman II
and proposed a peace treaty. As part of the deal; Moorish diplomat Yahya returned with the Norseman and came back unharmed some 20 months later to the Emir. A naval fleet and arsenal was constructed in Seville afterwards to repel any future invasion. During his reign Cordoba prospered; numbering several hundred thousand inhabitants it was the largest city in the known world. Poetry and philosophy were encouraged; Abd-arRahman II was responsible for many public building projects. The streets were paved and lit at night, mosques, libraries and public baths were built and indoor plumbing was introduced. He owned a fabulous jewelled belt which later El Cid, then Queen Isabel owned; the latter selling it hundreds of years later to help pay for the Christian reconquest of Granada. Abd ar-Rahman II died peacefully in 852AD and was succeeded by his son Muhammad I.
Enjoy Stephens musings? Pop over to http://findmeahomeinspain. wordpress.com as the articles are posted on there too...and they’re a bit longer too! Findmeahome are always looking for quality homes for their sales and rental portfolios, please contact Stephen for a valuation: stephen@findmeahome.es Telephone: 636 266 641
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SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
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SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
News International Demand for Holiday Rental Accommodation Up 14% to September
According to the latest data from online holiday rental specialists, HomeAway, Inc., tourists from the main European source markets for Spain increased their demand for holiday rental accommodation by 14% during the summer. This is the result of their analysis of data collected in Germany, France, Italy, Portugal and the UK during the months of June to September 2014. The data shows that the Balearic Islands was the favourite destination for German tourists since this region received 59% of their total demand. It is also the Spanish destination with the highest year-on-year growth in terms of their enquiries (15%). Other preferred destinations for German tourists during the period were the Canary Islands (29.8%) and Andalucía (5%). The French tourists who chose to rent a holiday home in Spain showed a preference for Catalonia (55% of their total demand), Valencia (19%) and Andalucía (12%), while the main destinations in terms of increases in enquiries were the Balearic Islands (53%), Catalonia (23%) and the Canary Islands (14%). The Balearic Islands and Catalonia accounted for 80% of the demand
from Italian tourists via the online portal, and the regions which recorded the best data with regard to increased demand were Valencia (70%), the Balearic Islands (46.6%) and Catalonia (36.5%). The three Spanish destinations in greatest demand from Portuguese holidaymakers were Andalucía, Catalonia and Galicia, which accounted for two-thirds of their visits to Spain. These three regions also registered the greatest year-on-year growth rates, of 52%, 162% and 103%, respectively. In the analysis of the UK market, El Mundo reported that the Balearic Islands, Andalucía and Catalonia accounted for more than 70% of the British tourists’ demand. However, in relation to the increase in demand, the Canary Islands led the ranking with 26%, followed by the Basque Country (20%) and the Balearic Islands (4%). The organisation’s data also indicates the length of stays most in demand by foreign tourists. The average length of stay exceeds a week for all nationalities, with 11.3 days on average for German holidaymakers, 10.6 days for the French, 10 days for Italians, 8.1 for the Portuguese, and 10.1 days for tourists from the UK. Source: http://news.kyero.com/
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’VE BEEN BURGLED
Statistics in Spain
Crime rates in Spain remain among the lowest in the EU according to the latest Interior Ministry crime report. However, since the economic crisis began in 2008, there has been a steep increase in domestic burglaries and theft as a result. In 2012 the number of burglaries in homes rose by 25.4%. The message to expat residents is not to panic. There are some simple precautions to take, as you would back in the UK, such as fitting security grills, installing exterior lights and alarms, being careful about what content is posted on social networks, especially anything to do with trips and holidays away from home. It also helps to take out a quality home insurance policy that will cover your home and its contents should any unfortunate incident occur.
When you discover you’ve been burgled
Peace-of-mind Directa
with
Linea
We understand that your peace-of-mind is important, especially in your home. Our claims department will take a full statement of the circumstances of the incident. We will check the insurance coverage with you explaining all the procedures. If emergency repairs are required from locksmiths to glaziers, we will help you swiftly handle your claim and get things back to normal as soon as possible. Fortunately, incidents of theft in Spain are relatively small compared to other EU countries, however should you be burgled, your homeowner’s insurance policy will cover the loss or destruction of personal property if it’s stolen from your home.
Hold-up outside the home
As soon as you discover you’ve been burgled, whether it’s a break-in or theft at your home, first call the police. Don’t touch anything until they arrive. A police report will be needed to process your claim. Then secure your home to avoid further damage, board up any broken windows, make a list of damaged or missing belongings, detail the damage to your home resulting from the burglary, taking photographs of damaged windows or door. At this point, you can call the claims department of your home insurance company. We advise you to have your policy on hand when you call.
In many cases, your home insurance policy may cover you for any incidents that occur outside your home. Should you be the victim of a hold-up outside your premises your personal belongings are covered. We will ensure replacement documents are quickly and efficiently dealt with, and if required, arrange the locks on your home to be changed. We hope the information provided in this article is of interest. If you would like to contact Linea Directa please call 902 123 161 More information on Linea Directa online at www.lineadirecta.com
LIBERTYHOME Take out a new Home Insurance now, pay by Direct Debit and get 50€ or 20€ Cashback, depending on your premium*, refunded directly to your bank account. Or, if not paid by Direct Debit, we’ll give you a 20€ El Corte Inglés shopping voucher if your premium exceeds 225€.
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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 ILLEGAL HOUSES /DEMOLITION ORDERS. VERY IMPORTANT SENTENCE BY CRIMINAL COURT NUMBER 2 IN ALMERÍA (24th of September) Recently the press (Voz de Almeria, Europa Press, our clients we requested moral damages, and that Euro-weekly etc.) have published various articles the town hall (as well as the builders) be made in relation to a sentence dictated by criminal court responsible economically due to its inaction during number 2 of Almería. The sentence ordered the the construction of the illegal houses. (This created non-demolition of the houses and prison sentences a false sense of legality which facilitated the buyers for the builders. In this case Davies Solicitors to make all the stage payments on the houses as presented the claims for various of the affected they were being built.) purchasers. We are very happy with this sentence This opens two new avenues for court cases in as amongst other things it provides food for thought relation to illegal houses, which we consider very in relation to future claims. important. In this case the public prosecutor was requesting 1. You can claim moral damages. Clearly a person the demolition of seven houses in Albox and a put through the stress of having purchased an illegal prison sentence for the builders. house should be entitled to this, but up to this point The sentence is special because apart has not normally been requested and even less so from ordering that the houses CAN NOT BE granted. DEMOLISHED it has done two extra things that 2. Apart from claiming against the builder (who is have not been usual up to now. often insolvent) look into the possibility of claiming 1. It accepts that the clients need to be paid as well against the town hall for its inaction during moral damages (in fact it agreed to the full amount the construction of the illegal house. (They are guilty of the loss of money by buyers, in my opinion, requested on all three claims). because if they had stopped the building when 2. It accepts that the town hall is also responsible it started people may have lost a deposit but they for the payment of these moral damages (this would not have made further stage payments.) opens up a new possibility when builders have This article is written in good faith, but we will gone bust, which would be to initiate claims against the town halls for having permitted the illegal builds not accept any responsibility for decisions made and therefore being responsible for the purchasers on the basis of this information. Court cases are loss). (We are not recommending taking town halls complex and costly and must only be entered into to court. We are simply suggesting that it may be after discussing your particular case in details with an avenue when the builder has gone bankrupt and a barrister. there is no other possibility). Michael Davies Abogadoo Apart from the non-demolition of the houses for
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.
News
Home Foreclosures Rose by 1.5% in the Second Quarter
The number of foreclosures initiated on primary residences stood at 9,611 in the second quarter of the year, a figure which is 1.5% higher than the previous quarter and 8.4% higher than the same period of 2013, according to provisional foreclosure statistics published this week by the National Statistics Institute. The main objective of the Institute is to provide quarterly statistics on the number of foreclosures initiated and recorded in the Property Registers during the reference quarter, and the agency points out that not all foreclosures end with the eviction of the owners. Between April and June this year, 32,960 mortgage foreclosures were initiated, which is 1.2% more than in the first quarter and 14% more than in the second quarter of 2013. Of those foreclosures recorded between April and June, a total of 19,155 corresponded to housing, registering a quarter-on-quarter rise of 1% and a yearon-year increase of 7.2%. Within the housing category, the number of mortgage foreclosures totalled 12,367 in the second quarter, of which 9,611 (77.7%) were for primary residences and 2,756 were not the habitual residence of the owners. The latter increased by 3.8% quarter-on-quarter and by 1.3% over the second quarter of 2013. Thus, according to Europa Press, the National Statistics Institute’s data shows that, of the total number of existing family homes in Spain (18,331,400), only 0.052%
initiated a foreclosure in the reference period between April and June this year. Of the total number of foreclosures on homes, over eight in ten (16,420) affected existing homes, representing an increase of 7.6% quarter-on-quarter and year-onyear growth of 15.5%. Foreclosures on new homes totalled 2,735, with quarterly and annual declines of 26.3% and 25%, respectively. The statistics also reveal that 21.7% of the housing foreclosures initiated in the second quarter corresponded to mortgages constituted in 2007, 17.6% to mortgages signed in 2006, and 13.3% to mortgages signed in 2005. Expanding the spectrum a little more, to the years 2005-2008, then the data shows that this period accounts for 63.4% of the foreclosures initiated in the second quarter of this year. Of the 2007 home mortgages, 0.33% initiated a foreclosure in the second quarter of this year, a percentage which drops to 0.25% for mortgages signed in 2008, to 0.21% for those subscribed in 2009, and to 0.07% for those incorporated in 2013. Catalonia was the region which registered the highest number of foreclosures on homes in the second quarter, with a total of 3,994, followed closely by Andalucía (3,981). In contrast, the regions to register the lowest numbers of foreclosures were La Rioja (61), the Basque Country (94) and Navarra (118). Source: http://news.kyero.com/
Spanish Estate Agent Your Estate Agent for Spain
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to say sales@soltimes.com you saw it in the SOL TIMES Tel:...remember 950 121 936
Room With A View
to advertise in this space please call Paulette on
Gordon Condrey
950 121 936
API Bancario Bank Property Agent
Tel + 34 637 309 092
No 3 Plaza Constitucion
Your Belgian Estate Agent at the Coast
Almeria Property Investments
www.almeriapropertyinvestments.com
URGENTLY LOOKING FOR NEW PROPERTIES ann@almeriapropertyinvestments.com
Tel: 950 460 874 or 666 260 792 Ronda de las Buganvillas nยบ42, Vera Playa
property sales and relocation specialists
OFFICE NOW OPEN ON TURRE HIGH STREET Avda de Almeria 78
We are looking for new property listings both coastal & inland Please Contact us on 950 469 592 or 697 640 681
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Almeria 04660 Almeria Arboleas, (Next to Cajamar Bank) Property Agency
Sales & Lettings - Inmobiliaria
SIGN UP TO OUR EMAIL ALERTS FOR LIVE PROPERTY UPDATES Office: 0034 850 993 099 Mobile: 0034 606 281 865 Email: info@almeriapropertyagency.com
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News Britain To remove winter fuel allowance for expats in Spain
British pensioners living abroad in countries warmer than the UK received more than £16 million in winter fuel payments last year, according to official figures. The payments, of up to £300 a year taxfree, are intended to help the elderly with heating bills. However, more than £8 million was sent to pensioners living in Spain, £5 million to those in France, £1.4 million to those in Cyprus and £579,000 to those in Portugal. The total amount paid to British pensioners living abroad in European countries rose slightly, from £21.4 million in 2012-13 to £21.7 million in 2013-14. The Department for Work and Pensions confirmed that the government intended to legislate to remove the benefit from pensioners living in countries where the average winter temperature is warmer than
the warmest region of the UK. A DWP spokesman said that, subject to Parliamentary approval, from 201516 winter fuel payments would no longer be payable to people living in Portugal, Spain, Greece, France, Gibraltar, Malta and Cyprus. “Winter fuel payments are intended to encourage older people in Britain to keep themselves warm. It was never intended to be paid in warmer countries,” the spokesman said. Almost half of people (46 per cent) are more concerned about meeting the cost of energy bills this winter than they were last winter, according to a survey commissioned by Co-operative Energy. Six per cent were less concerned, while just over half (51 per cent) said they had cut back on other spending in order to pay their energy bills. Source: www.davidjackson.info
COMPLETE HOLIDAY HOLIDAY CARE CARE COMPLETE MOJACAR PLAYA
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LA/GK - Fantastic modern, 1st floor 3 bed apartment, sea views, 300m to beach, 3 pools/ gardens, tennis, elevator, private parking, store room. MOJACAR reduced €109,950
Paseo del Mediterraneo 19, Mojacar Playa, Almeria (near the Hotel Best Indalo) Tel: 950 478 612 / 610 808 631
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SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
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KAREN OLIVER + TEAM WELCOMES YOU TO THE NEW
info@solymarspain.com www.solymarspain.com
Contact us now on 950 064 584 Mob: 635 979 829
MAR097
Piedra Amarillia
SOL023
199,950€
arboleas
7 bed 4 bath 2 separate villas or could be turned into one, large garage/ storage area. Under floor heating.
in mojacar, vera playa & san juan Office Address: Avenida 28 De Febrero, 44 Bajo, Albox (A334 Albox To Baza Road) Opposite Albox Online
For all new and existing customers commission rate of 2.5% over 120.000€ plus
475€pcm
3 bed 2 bath pool stunning views off road parking fully furnished
Houses Wanted mar002
no marketing fees SOL173
139,500€_
la perla
2 bed 1 bath fully furnished blow up pool pets welcome SOL190
cantoria
3 bed 2 bath stunning villa done to the highest standard both inside and out close to village centre. viewings highly recommended.
star
propert y
375€pCM
149,000€
sole agents oria
4 bed 4 bath large open plan kitchen/ diner main house 3 bed separate annex 12 x 5 pool solar powered
oria
S O L1 6 0
BARGAIN PRICE 3 bed 2 bath country house fantastic views off road parking must be viewed to be appreciated
139,950€
carpentry & construction (formally known as
Harlequin kitchens)
For a FREE home measure & quotation please contact Trevor on
619 584 405
Based in Albox, but will cover all areas
All aspects of carpentry, block walls, plastering, monocaping, roofing, patios and much more.
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
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21
property group
Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria
Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563
www.veritashomes.co.uk info@veritashomes.co.uk You can find us on Huerta Nueva
€65,000
Mojácar Playa
€69,000
New 2 bed / 2 bath ground floor fully furn Apartment with private plot in complex with pools near village. Air con. Ref. 1497
1 bed / 1 bath fully furn Apart with nice sea views on front line development with pool &parking near amenities. Ref. 1605
Mojácar Playa
Valle del Este
€109,950
Vera town
€70,000
3 bed / 2 bath large Townhouse with basement and patio set in front of the municipal indoor pool. Ref. 1590
€85,000
Mojácar Playa
€79,950
3 bed / 2 bath fully furnished Apartment with sea views near golf and beach in Marina de la Torre. Ref. 1559
Cantoria
€110,000
THE BEST INVESTMENT PROPERTY:
3 bed / 1 bath sea facing Apartment within 300 meters to promenade. Store room. Tennis court & pools. Ref. 1589
Charming 4 bed / 2 bath Villa with pool and garden on walled plot of 2.620 m² on tranquil setting near village. Ref.1517
Mojácar playa
Vera 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
€134,950
Immaculate 2 bed / 2 bath fully furnished Townhouse with front private garden, patio & roof terrace. Parking place. Communal pool. Ref.1555
Mojácar playa
€150,000
2 bed / 1 bath fully furnished Apartment. Terrace of 10 m² with view. Gated community with pools and gardens. Ref.1597
mojÁcar playa
€155,000
2 bed / 2 bath Apartment with private garden near commercial center & beach. Build 89 m². Private parking. Pool. Ref.1587
2 bed / 1 bath east facing Townhouse with lockup garage, terraces and roof terrace. Sea views. Communal pool. Ref.1548
2 bed / 2 bath Apartment. Sea views. Set across the road from promenade. Terrace: 33 m². Underground parking. Pool. Ref.1596
Vera
Mojácar playa
Mojácar Playa
€179,000
3 bed / 3 bath charming Townhouse with garage and store room near amenities. Air con. Build 183 m². Ref.1519
€199,999
3 bed / 2 bath sea facing Penthouse. Terraces of 45 m² & 25 m². Large living room. Underground parking. Pool Ref.1509
€115,000
mojÁcar playa
€160,000
3 bed / 2 bath fully furnished Apartment with underground parking in front line development. Nice community with pools. Ref.1606
€225,000
3 bed / 2 bath Villa on plot of 500 m² within 200 meters to beach & amenities. Terraces &car port. Ref.1560
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.
22
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
The Huercal-overa areas no1 top selling agent properties
urgently required
VH225 €109,950 CEE E42 34 • 2 bed, 2 bath Villa • 672m2 private garden • Edge of village • Walk to amenities
in huecal-overa ZURGENA LA ALFOQUIA TABERNO & SAN JUAN DE LOS TERREROS
VH532 €99,000 CEE E43 57 • 2 bed, 1 bath Villa • 500m2 private garden • 5 mins drive to Huercal-Overa • 25 mins drive to San Juan beaches
VH574 €179.950 CEE E55 22 • 5 bed, 3 bath Country House • 286m² build, full of character • 33,000m² land • 8 mins drive to Taberno
PROPERTY OF THE WEEK VH525 Villa José €119,950
OPEN TO OFFERS. Very attractive country villa
(needs a little tlc) with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 10m x 5m swimming pool, garage, walled horse paddock and approx 10,000m2 of flat land surrounded by open countryside and ideal for horse riding. The villa comprises of covered fly free porch stretching the length of the house, living room with log burning fire, fitted kitchen and dining room, 3 double bedrooms with built in wardrobes and 2 bathrooms. It is a new style villa but with a few “cottage style” touches such as wooden windows and doors. Mains water & electricity is connected, phone and internet can be connected. Villa José is 5 minutes drive from two villages with cafes, restaurants, shops, chemist, doctors and schools. The large market town of Huércal-Overa with its hospital, shops, restaurants, banks and sports facilities is approx 12 minutes away and the coast is approx 35 to 50 minutes away.
VH618 €249,950 CEE C19 44 • 4 bed, 3 bath Luxury Country Villa • 61,000m2 of land • 10m x 5m swimming pool • Velez Rubio / Huercal-Overa area
VH691 €249,950 CEE TBC • 2 houses together with pool • Plus apartment & warehouse • 7 beds & 5 baths in total • Huercal-Overa area
VH708 €165,000 CEE G150 32 • 3 bed, 2 bath Villa • Swimming pool • Walk to shops etc • Taberno Village
VH707 €319,000 CEE E31 78 • 3 bed, 3 bath Luxury Villa • Swimming pool, 80m2 under build • Walk to beach, shops etc • San Juan de Los Terreros
for Sale
sea front Apartment - Mojacar
only
69,000€ o.n.o
23
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
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• 1 Bed, 1 Bath, Terrace • Big Communal Pool • Communal Gardens • Gated parking area • New kitchen • Walking distance to shops and restaurants. • Sea views • Across road from beach
Home Sweet Home
Property Services
Tel. 664 291 793 jescott29@hotmail.co.uk
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O Olive
Contact: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466 C/Llanos, Bedar (Next to the Miramar Restaurant) Open: Monday-Friday 10.00am-3.30pm
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LUBRIN
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
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Now Only 29,950€
A pretty detached stone cortijo in it’s original state, ripe for renovation. Set in a pretty hamlet a short 5 minute drive from the pretty village of Lubrin. Would make a pretty cottage ideal for a lock up and leave holiday home. Potential for a two bedroom house with a courtyard garden, electric and water connected
OLV690
CALL 950 121 936 EMAIL: SALES@SOLTIMES.COM
The Window Doctor For all your door, window & conservatory problems
• keep FLIES out with a new Fly Screen or repair • Winter discounts available
• Draughts • Troublesome Locks • Condensation • Broken down units
Consult Sean Tel: 630 231 644
Isabel Morales Civil Engineer
Member of the College of Civil Engineers, no 27335
ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE
If you are advertising your property in Spain for sale or rent, you are obliged to have an EPC (Recent Decree 235/2013)
almeria & Murcia
Have you considered buying a property in Almeria? Please contact our office in Huercal-Overa on
0034 950 616 or visit our website www.vosshomesspain.com
155a Carretera Estacion, Huercal-Overa, Almeria 04600
areas covered
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To obtain an energy Performance Certificate fast & easily Tel: 617 749 105 (English Spoken). Also surveys, technical reports, valuations & antiquity certificates.
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Paseo del Mediterraneo, 355 Mojacar 04638 David
Properties for Sale & Rent
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Check out our portfolio, with properties starting from only 49,000€ Call Charlie on: 677 667 722 or 950 064 584 or Karen on 635 979 829 Web: www.solymarspain.com
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665 517 643 Steve
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24
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
Open 4 business
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES 950 121 936 sales@soltimes.com Tel:
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Stacking service available Free Kindling with every full load
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call lee on 636 092 632 eliteplanthire@hotmail.co.uk
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Interior & Exterior Painting including Rejas, Gates, Garage Doors
All Aspects of Carpentry including Car Ports & Pergolas
Phone now for free estimate on any type of painting and carpentry works that you require in your home or business cisinfoservice@gmail.com
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tel: 634 328 779
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mention code E2374 offer expires end Oct 2014 Fully Legal
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SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
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Book review The Island by Victoria Hislop
“A single shot ricocheted across the water, the noise amplified by the echo from the mountains behind, and a crimson blanket spread itself slowly across the still sea.” Spinalonga was a former leper colony where people were exiled from 1903-1957 in northern Crete. During the second world war the Germans occupied the island as well as allied forces. Hislop has combined history with fiction, presenting the reader with a moving portrayal of four generations of one family blighted by leprosy, war and its legacy. Alexis Fielding is 25, working in a museum and likely to follow in her father’s footsteps in archaeology. Ed was her boyfriend of 3 years and what was once a promising affair has now turned sour “like a sickly cutting that had failed to survive being transplanted from greenhouse to border.” They were meant to be on holiday but conflict, arguments and lots of self-reflection amounted to doubts over suitability and compatibility. Curiosity about her mother, Sofia who was born on the island of Crete resulted in Alexis trekking to Plaka to find a family friend called Fortini who hopefully would unravel the family history which inevitably meant unearthing the skeletons in the closet, a disclosure that knocked Alexis for six! From 2001 the story reverts to 1939 with Alexis’s great grandparents and the tragic revelation that her great grandmother Eleni had developed the virulent strain of
leprosy and was late summer of condemned to the 1943. Obviously, place of the living they were nervous dead, Spinalonga of leprosy spreading to end her days and wanted it in suffering and contained on torment before Spinalonga. being laid to rest Fortini is thorough in a communal and yet sensitive as and unmarked she retells stories grave. Ironically, about the lives of fate dealt another those affected by severe blow when jealousy and betrayal one of Eleni’s in hard times when daughter, Maria the war added an extra was diagnosed strain of misery. with the same “Our so called fate is disease as her largely ordained by mother and followed a similar our ancestors, not by the stars.” fate almost in 1953. Timing was Three generations of lives were cruel-she was about to celebrate so intertwined. Eleni and Maria’s her marriage to a local Romeo sad fate was the tip of the iceberg. whe she was exiled to the rock Pandora regretted opening her as it was called. Fortunately there box. Would it be the same for were doctors researching the Alexis when she discovered what disease and a cure was eventually happened to her grandmother found, although it was too late for Anna and her husband? those who had succumbed to the Alexis is certainly shocked by disease. what she hears but matures and When the Germans arrived during consequently grows closer to her the 40s they committed murder mother and these revelations have and mutilation destroying villages the added bonus of helping her and its inhabitants fearing the Allied to decide on her future with Ed. forces and the Resistance which It’s a wonderful story, deep and proved a threat to their occupation fulfilling. It deserves a read. of Crete. They threatened to Publisher: Headline. exterminate all male inhabitants ISBN: 978-0-7553-0951-1 of the villages aiding the Allies. A young male leper from REVIEW it by Carol Naylor. the island was brutally www.carolnaylor.blogspot.com / murdered trying to swim www.carolesleynaylor.wordpress.com to Plaka to celebrate his naylorcl@hotmail.es son’s 3rd birthday in the
25
pause for thought
For us at least the visiting season seems to have ended for this year, allowing us some time to relax and get on with the many jobs that have been piling up over the summer. Strange isn’t it how few wanted to visit whilst we lived in Lancashire, yet suddenly we, along no doubt with many expats living in this beautiful part of Spain, find all and sundry missing us dreadfully and having to visit! Not that any of us really mind of course, but I suspect we’ve all experienced visitors who seem to take us for granted, treating our homes like a hotel, with little evidence of gratitude, so that sometimes I wonder if the simple expression ‘Thank you’ is no longer a part of the English language. But how important that phrase is, and how often we all let an occasion pass without expressing our thanks, suggesting, rather like some of our less popular visitors, that we consider ourselves deserving of the service or gift we’ve received so have no need of gratitude. And so, at this time of year I used to find it particularly helpful in Britain when Churches in every community advertised their services of Harvest Thanksgiving, reminding all of us of our debt of gratitude to so many people, as well as to God himself, for all the innumerable benefits we enjoy, yet so often take for granted in our daily lives. So yes, as we celebrated Harvest recently at our Churches in Albox and Mojacar, we in this part of Almeria thanked God for the fruits of the Earth, for the labours of so many in making them available to us and above all for His great love so wonderfully revealed in Jesus Christ His son. 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 website 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
26
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
Go to our web site for all our excursions. Costa Blancas No1 Tour Operator for day trips, city breaks, cruises through to Christmas & New Year.
online Booking Now Available!
Book online or call us direct, either way one of our operators is waiting to take your call or visit www.coachtripsonline.com for more info
SolPUZZLES Movie Actors
Find and circle all of the Movie Actors that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell the name of a movie for which Forest Whitaker won an Oscar
1. Which of the following has the largest taxi fleet in the world? a. Mexico City b. New York c. Mumbai d. Sao Paulo........................................................... 2. Which tiny country controlled two thirds of the world’s trade between 1600 and 1650?.......................................................... 3. Which actor once came in second place at the 24 Hours Of Le Mans? a. James Garner b. Steve McQueen c. Paul Newman d. Robert Redford.......................... 4. Who was the second last Mohican?.......... 5. Which 20th century US President, with a last name that is an eponym, could speak fluent Mandarin Chinese?............................ 6. Which two songs with the word brown in the song title reached number one in the US charts in the 1970s?..................................... 7. Who was the only man to have had a Pope arrested in the last 300 years?..................... 8. What does the Greek root ‘cin’, as in cinema, mean?............................................ 9. Canada and Indonesia have the longest coastlines in the world. Greenland excluded, name the next five.......................
ARKIN, Alan
FIRTH, Colin
MCGREGOR, Ewan
RADCLIFFE, Daniel
BALE, Christian
FISHBURNE, Laurence
MURPHY, Eddie
SINISE, Gary
10. The ‘Nostromo’ is a doomed space ship in which sci-fi film?......................................
BANDERAS, Antonio
FRASER, Brendan
MURRAY, Bill
SLATER, Christian
BROADBENT, Jim
GLOVER, Danny
NICHOLSON, Jack
STRATHAIRN, David
GOODING JR, Cuba
NORTON, Edward
THORNTON, Billy Bob
HARRIS, Ed
OLDMAN, Gary
WALKEN, Christopher
BYRNE, Gabriel
HAWKE, Ethan
PACINO, Al
WASHINGTON,
CRAIG, Daniel
KINGSLEY, Ben
PAXTON, Bill
Denzel
DAY-LEWIS, Daniel
MACY, William H.
PITT, Brad
WHITAKER, Forest
EASTWOOD, Clint
MALKOVICH, John
QUAID, Dennis
WILLIS, Bruce
standard SUDOKU
wordsearch answer easy SUDOKU
CRYPTIC crossword
Leroy Brown 7. Napoleon 8. Motion 9. In order: Russia, Philippines, Japan, Australia and Norway. 10. Alien
CROSSWORD
1. a. Mexico City 2. Holland 3. c. Paul Newman (1979) 4. Uncas 5. Hoover 6. Brown Sugar and Bad Bad
SOLUTIONS
BRODERICK, Matthew BRODY, Adrien
THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND
Brain Teasers Answers
sports quiz
1. At which racecourse is the Grand National run?... 2. Which cyclist has the record for winning the Tour De France seven consecutive times?.......... 3. On a darts board, what number is diagonally opposite 19?.................... 4. In the game of snooker, how many balls are present on the table at the beginning of a game?............................. 5. Who was the first unseeded man to win Wimbledon’s Mens Singles Title?................... 6. How many players are there in a Rugby League team?.............................. 7. Which sport is Silverstone most associated with?.............. 8. In 2004, the Olympic Games ‘came home’ to which city?...................... 9. What is the name given for one stroke over par for a single hole in golf?.. 10. In 1996, whose ear did Mike Tyson partially bite off in the ring?..........
Answers
squiggle SUDOKU
Fun Brain Teasers with Answers to Challenge your Mind
wordsearch
7. Motor Racing 8. Athens 9. A Bogey 10. Evander Holyfield
People are Strange!
The average person produces enough saliva in their lifetime to fill 2 swimming pools.............. Most babies are born with blue eyes; exposure to UV light brings out their true color................................................................ Everyone has a completely unique smell (except for twins)............................................. It’s nearly impossible to tickle yourself............ Your bones, pound for pound, are 4x stronger than concrete...................................................
1. Aintree 2. Lance Armstrong 3. 1 4. 22 5. Boris Becker 6. 13
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
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Across 2. Flashlight (5) 4. Book of synonyms (9) 6. Large percussion instrument (7) 7. Spooky (5) 9. On time (8) 11. Lawyer (8) 13. Having three dimensions (5) 14. Depots (7) 16. Derived from experiment and observation (9) 17. Lance (5)
Down 1. Direct quotation (8) 2. Eigth letter of the Greek alphabet (5) 3. Crop (7) 4. Schedule (9) 5. Relating to tailoring (9) 6. Keynote of a major or minor scale (5) 8. Boredom (5) 10. Takes (7) 12. Fish valued for its roe (8) 15. Happen again (5)
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SUDOKU PUZZLE s
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 Element of vehicle good in France (6) 5 Stupid idiot Dan gets arithmetic operation (8) 9 Carefully considering pre-fight event before midnight (8) 10 Apes manage to catch one student leader (6) 11 Associated closely, if it denied production (10) 12 Animal’s quiet old state (4) 13 Attribute of suitable drink, say (8) 16 Vehicle left in plant (6) 17 Fluid that’s disputed in silence (6) 19 Puts down, so tips off after removing half of debt (8) 21 Setter’s section of exam in English (4) 22 Sadly dies on horseback initially, with feathers inverted (6-4) 25 A head of department, only to alter slightly (6) 26 English meadows in colour that’s slackened (8) 27 Amicable conclusion in adornment, mostly unknown (8)
28 Most crafty instruments without right to be in the street (6) Down 2 Leading margin of victory? (5) 3 Start to live with drink (5) 4 Number one to rise awkwardly with more sound (7) 5 Any girl exploding with rage (7) 6 Determines policemen’s entry into river with pole (7) 7 Foremost university (extremely poorly-off) to witness turnaround - thanks to these? (3-2,4) 8 Her voting’s erratic, happening in a short time (9) 14 What’s left of a memento, externally (9) 15 Course of action, perhaps, prouder to include church (9) 18 The Uni mostly ‘ad trouble, having resident ghosts (7) 19 Ruin of the French city of old (7) 20 In mix-up, add less oars (7) 23 Journal’s sudden attack coming up at start of year (5) 24 Tiny daughter’s unwanted growths (5)
food & drink
28 SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
ingredients
butter, for greasing 100 g pecan nuts 175 g plain flour, sifted 50 g soft dark brown sugar 75 g vegetable suet 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 1 large free-range egg 8 tablespoons maple syrup, plus extra for serving 1 vanilla pod, seeds scraped out 150 ml whole milk cream or custard, to serve
Maple syrup & pecan steamed puddings
Method
Everybody loves steamed pudding and these little ones are absolutely delicious. They’re cooked in individual teacups – you can turn them out quite easily or eat them straight from the cup. Feel free to use different nuts, if you prefer. Heat the oven to 190°C/375ºF/gas 5. Grease 6 small teacups well with butter. Place the pecans in a sandwich bag, tie the bag closed and bash the nuts with a rolling pin. You want to end up with a mixture of chunky and fine bits of pecan. Dust the insides of the teacups with the bashed up nuts, tipping the excess into a large bowl. Empty the leftover pecans from the sandwich bags into the bowl, too, add all
Place the cups in a large, deep roasting tray. Fill the tray, around the cups, with boiling water from the kettle, making sure the water level comes about halfway up the side of the cups. Carefully put the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes until the cakes are golden on top and cooked through. Leave to stand for a couple of minutes before turning them out. Serve with cream or custard and an extra drizzle of warmed maple syrup. www.jamieoliver.com
MENU DEL DIA open 7 days a week 4 Courses with Wine & Coffee
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Roast Lamb Shoulder & Pork Knuckle, 12oz Entrecote, 20oz T-Bone, 10oz Pork Tenderloin, Roast Potatoes & Fresh Veg.
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All your favorite pasta dishes including Ravioli, Lasagne, Macaroni, Carbonara, Tortellini & a wide range of pizzas from Margaritas to a Meat Feast
Open Mon - Sat 8am - 24pm,Sun 10am - 17pm Spanish Tel: 950 430 145 English Tel: 647 730 103 www.mesondeirene.com
Poligono Industrial Albox, Near the ITV Garage
SH
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Steamed chocolate and pear puddings with hot chocolate sauce
remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour a tablespoon of maple syrup into the bottom of each teacup and pour some of the mixture on top – you want your cups to be about three-quarters full.
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Tel: 950 121 936 sales@soltimes.com
Best Authentic Indian fo on the Plaod ya Served All Day!
ingredients
FOR THE PUDDINGS 125g butter, at room temperature, plus an extra 15g 125g caster sugar 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 175g self-raising flour 20g cocoa powder 3tbsp milk (approx) 4 small ripe pears FOR THE SAUCE 100g dark chocolate, broken into small pieces 150ml single cream 25g butter Method To make the puddings, place the 125g of butter and sugar in a mixing bowl and cream together with an electric hand whisk until light and fluffy. Add the egg, a little at a time, beating well after each addition, then add the flour. Put the cocoa powder in a cup, stir in 2tbsp hot water and then mix into the sponge mixture. It needs to be soft enough to comfortably drop off the beaters, so add enough milk to get the required consistency. Peel, quarter and core the pears, chop into 5-10mm cubes. Stir half into the sponge mixture, and place the rest in
Little Sticky Toffee Puddings with Baileys Cream Serves: 4
ingredients
75g (3 oz) butter or margarine, plus a little extra for greasing 75g (3 oz) dark or light muscovado sugar 1 large egg, beaten 1 tsp vanilla extract 75g (3 oz) self-raising flour 1 medium banana 25g (1 oz) dates, chopped 1 tbsp milk 4 tbsp toffee sauce or golden syrup 180ml pot Baileys Extra Thick Cream with a hint of Crème Caramel
Method Now showing
GAA Games
tel: 950 473 135 mojacar playa (between Lua & Moma Beach)
a small saucepan with the extra 15g of butter and 3tbsp cold water. Keep to one side. Spoon the sponge mixture into six 150-175ml pudding basins (preferably plastic), buttered and lightly dusted with flour. Smooth the surface and cover the tops tightly with buttered foil, sealing well by pinching the foil around the edges. Place in a steamer over boiling water for 50 minutes. While the puddings are cooking, place the saucepan of pears over a mediumhigh heat and cook until tender and the liquid has virtually evaporated, leaving the pears in a buttery/syrupy glaze. To make the chocolate sauce, place all the ingredients in a bowl over a pan of gently simmering water and stir until you have a velvety smooth sauce. Keep warm. Remove the foil from the cooked puddings and turn out onto plates. Spoon the pears on the top and serve with the chocolate sauce poured over. TOP TIP To make this into one large pudding, you will need a 1-1.2ltr pudding basin. Steam it for 1 hour 45 mins-2 hours. Source: www.dailymail.co.uk
Preheat the oven to 180 C, fan 160 C, Gas 4. Grease 4 individual pudding basins or ramekin dishes with a little butter or margarine. Beat the butter or margarine and sugar together until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the egg and then stir in the vanilla extract. Sieve in the flour and fold it in with a large metal spoon. Mash the banana and stir it in with the dates and milk. Put 1 tbsp toffee sauce or golden syrup
into each pudding basin or ramekin. Spoon the creamed mixture on top. Cover tightly with pieces of foil. Stand the basins or dishes in a small roasting pan or baking dish and pour in enough warm water to come halfway up their sides. Bake for 25-30 minutes until set. Cool for a few moments, then run a knife around each one and turn them out. Serve with Baileys Extra Thick Cream with a hint of Crème Caramel. Cook’s tip Use sultanas or raisins instead of dates, if you prefer. Source: www.allrecipes.co.uk
Tel: 950 121 936 sales@soltimes.com food & drink
SOLTIMES SEPTEMBER 2014
29
Chocolate amaretti puddings
ingredients
200g butter, plus extra for the tins 200g plain chocolate (70% cocoa solids) 4 eggs (room temperature) 200g dark muscovado sugar 140g ground almonds 25g plain flour, plus extra for dusting 1 tsp baking powder 4 tbsp Amaretto liqueur 10 amaretti biscuits For the sauce 5 tbsp double cream 140g golden syrup 100g bar plain chocolate (70% cocoa solids) 2 tbsp Amaretto liqueur To decorate Salted almond brittle
Method
Heat oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6 and put on a full kettle. Have a large roasting tin ready. Butter 10 squares of foil, each about 15 x 15cm. Butter 10 x 200ml mini pudding tins, dust with flour, then tap out the excess. Cut 10 small circles of baking paper to fit the bottoms and drop one into each tin. Melt the butter and chocolate together in a pan, heating gently and stirring every so often. Set aside to cool. Meanwhile, put the eggs and sugar into a large bowl and whisk with electric beaters for 10 mins, or until the mix is thick and foamy and holds a trail for a few seconds. Mix the ground almonds, flour and baking powder together. Splash 1 tbsp amaretto over the biscuits. Fold the cooled chocolate mix into the whisked egg and sugar using a large metal spoon. Follow with the flour mix, then
el Cucador
This Sat 11th October 4pm til late
A CHARITY DANCE
work in the amaretto. Fill the tins one-third full, then drop in an amaretti biscuit and top up with mix, leaving a 1cm gap between the top of the mix and the edge of the tins. Loosely scrunch a foil square over the top of each tin. Put the tins in the roasting pan and pour hot water around – it should come about halfway up the sides of the puddings. Bake for 30 mins, then insert a skewer into one; a few damp crumbs should stick to the skewer – you don’t want the puds to be totally dry. Meanwhile, make the fudgy sauce. Melt all of the ingredients together in a heavy-based pan, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Set aside. Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days,then reheat on the hob or in the microwave on High for 1 min. To serve the puddings, turn onto plates and spoon over some of the sauce, allowing it to ooze over the edges. Sprinkle with shards of Salted almond brittle and serve straight away. Source: www.bbcgoodfood.com
Rod Oxley in the Garden from 4pm Brian Dee live from 8pm
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FRIDAYS 12.30pm - 9pm
(tester inserted into centers comes out with wet batter attached), about 11 minutes. Remove cakes from oven; run small knife around each cake to loosen. Place small plate atop 1 ramekin with pudding cake. Using oven mitts or pot holders, hold plate and ramekin firmly together and invert, allowing cake to settle onto plate. Repeat with remaining cakes. Sprinkle each cake with powdered sugar or sweetened cocoa. Place scoop of ice cream alongside. Garnish with mint leaves and serve. Source: www.epicurious.com
Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly butter six 3/4-cup ramekins or custard cups. Stir chocolate and butter in heavy small saucepan over low heat until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Using electric mixer, beat eggs, egg yolks, and 1/3 cup sugar in large bowl until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Add all purpose flour and beat until blended. Add chocolate mixture, peppermint extract, and salt; beat just until incorporated. Divide chocolate mixture among prepared ramekins. Place ramekins on baking sheet. (Can be prepared Free Bottle of wine 1 hour ahead. Let stand per couple to take away at room temperature.) Bake cakes until edges after having our night menus are set but centers look shiny and still move Valid only with this voucher slightly when ramekins dinner 19.00-22.00 until 31st october are gently shaken
Mesón de
Irene
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Enjoy a delicious meal al fresco in our relaxing garden offering fantastic mountain views
5.95€
ingredients
Method
All ticket proceeds to go to the charities come and support a great these good causes
IARA
Chocolate-Mint Pudding Cakes
6 ounces bittersweet (not unsweetened) or semisweet chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces 3 large eggs 3 large egg yolks 1/3 cup baker’s sugar (superfine sugar) or regular sugar 1/4 cup all purpose flour 1 1/4 teaspoons peppermint extract 1/4 teaspoon salt Powdered sugar or sweetened cocoa powder Peppermint stick ice cream or mint chocolate chip ice cream Fresh mint leaves
€5 includes food
For charities
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TRADITIONAL SUNDAY LUNCH
served 1pm-6pm
Salmon, Cod fillet, & Salad Options Lamb
Served 2nd Sunday of each month (2€ Supp)
booking recommended
Sunday British Breakfasts served from 10am - 12pm
lunch menu & LITE BITE menu 12.30pm - 3.30pm
Bar specials
served 6pm - 9pm from from Mon: Chili €5 5€ TUES: Atlantic Cod & Chips or Chicken Curry €5.50 WED: 1/2 Chicken & Chips or Chefs Special €5.50 THURS: Home made Pies €5.50 We are here
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Mojacar
E15
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30
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES october 2014
News
The Filming Of ‘Clavious’ Begins Next Week By Martin Shortland
The American director Kevin Reynolds, responsible for titles such as ‘Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves’, ‘Rapa Nui’ and ‘Waterworld’, has arrived in Almeria for the next phase of shooting for his new film, ‘Clavius’, a biblical story of intrigue and deception starring Joseph Fiennes, Tom Felton, María Botto and Leonor Watling. Reynolds landed at Almeria airport last Thursday on a charter flight, accompanied by his production team. After spending more than a month in Malta, the whole production unit now shifts to Almeria, where they will spend up to two months on location in and around the capital. The centre piece for much of the filming will be the recently completed fort close to the walls of the Alcazaba. Other scenes will be shot in Tabernas and on the Genoese beach near San José. Filming is due to start next week. Some members of the team were in Almeria two weeks ago to conduct four days of casting for the 1,000
Factory, one of the most important Spanish companies in the construction of sets for film and television and who had previously created the sets for the filming of ‘Exodus’ in the Sierra Alhamilla, has built a huge replica of the barracks, in the La Hoya Park, close to the Alcazaba. Scripted by Kevin Reynolds, Karen Janszen and Paul Aiello, the film is
extras required for the battle scenes, as well as overseeing the completion of the many different sets located in the region. Those lucky enough to be selected will be required to undergo three days of training next week for the complex fight sequences. The director made the decision to cut short their time in Malta and transfer some of the scenes originally planned for shooting there, to the Almeria locations. He said the dazzling scenery, long daylight hours and production support from film professionals in the province, were the reasons he decided to expand the time - from one month to almost six weeks – in Almeria province. Crazy
being described as a biblical thriller, with a detective twist. The central character Clavius, a Roman centurion played by Joseph Fiennes, is given the task of locating the body of Christ by the governor of Judea Pontius Pilate, to avoid an imminent revolt in Jerusalem after rumors of the resurrection. According to production sources, this film will generate around six million euros in revenue for the region.
Demonstrators Disrupt Roquetas Bullfights By Martin Shortland
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London Town Quiz
Thursday 16th October 8pm
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Monday Bingo 9pm Tuesday Authentic Curry Night All curries cooked to order 16 variations Friday The Fish Inn Saturday Music & Karaoke
Roquetas De Mar Urbanisation opposite Protur Hotel, next to Suzi’s Tel: 950 33 51 80 or 634322644 opening hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat from11am-Late Sun 12noon - 7pm, (Wed closed)
FREE
A weekend of bullfighting at the Plaza de Toros in Roquetas was targeted by an anti bullfighting group on Saturday. The demonstrators handed out leaflets to visitors at the entrance to the bullring in what they described as a peaceful protest against the inhumane treatment of the animals. The three days of bullfighting was part of The Fiesta of Rosario which took place in the town and had the full backing of the Mayor. The event was not along the lines of a traditional corrida, with full grown animals and celebrity bullfighters; it was more of a training workshop for inexperienced bullfighters. The United Left Party has also made its feeling known, again criticising the council for wasting taxpayers money. Spokesman for the party, Ricardo Fernandez said it was another example of the councils woeful inability to recognise more important causes in the town. He said the cost of promoting the event was around 40,000 euros and highlighted a number of areas where the money could have been better spent, for the good of the community. He said, “The Central Healthcare Unit is in need of some improvements and likewise the Sports Centre: that amount of money would go a long way to making those improvements.” The ‘novilladas’ as these events are known as, are for trainees and are supervised by a former professional
bullfighter who gives classes in the art of fighting bulls. The animals used are not fully mature, usually one or two years old. The demonstrators were especially critical of these types of event because they said the animals suffered even more than usual because they were being killed at the hands of novices, not professional matadors and their deaths were often prolonged and cruel. Deputy Mayor, Eloisa Cabrerra was present on the first day of the event and reiterated her Party’s commitment to bullfighting, she said, “Bullfighting is an important part of Spanish culture and an event like this gives people a chance to see how matadors are trained.” The organisers said there was a small presence of demonstrators at the entrance to the arena on each of the three days, but they allowed them to carry out their demonstration because they were breaking no laws. A police spokesman said the usual number of officers were on duty and they had not been required to take any action against the demonstrators, saying, “They behaved in an orderly and correct manner and carried out their demonstration in a peaceful way, which they’re perfectly entitled to do.” The event as a whole was not attended by many people, friends and relatives of the people attending the classes made up the majority of the crowds.
SOLTIMES october 2014
www.soltimes.com
31
roquetas - COMMUNITY NEWS
Want to improve your Spanish?
Do you want to improve your Spanish and speak English with new friends. Every Thursdays from 9.00 pm in L’arrivée Tapas & Lounge Café in Aguadulce. You can taste our fantastic tapas and enjoy improving your Spanish and speaking English with people from Spain and other countries. Your first pint of beer and
estampa Tapas Bar
tapa is for free. Just come and enjoy
october closed 3rd, 4th & 5th English Tapas/Snacks
door t u o y n n u s Spacious seating 24 terrace TV SKY
Breakfast Fish & Chips Coffees & Cakes Cocktails/ Sangria
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a big thank you
Estampa Bar thanks everybody for their kindness over our son Daniel’s Christening. Thanks to everyone for their gifts, cards & money.
al l sp or ts no w sh ow n Open 9.30am - late (Closed Tuesday)
Next door to Zurimar 678 202 160
Room to let
Room to let with en suite bathroom. Roquetas de Mar, great location overlooking the harbour, beach and sea. Modern, spacious apartment with balcony and two terraces. 627 742 054
Wish your Friends or Loved Ones Happy birthday, anniversary or just send them a special message. Send details to: production@soltimes.com or call Mark on 693 774 932
FTG Notice
The ‘Friday Tapas Group’ meet up at 1.00pm each week (Friday) and the venues over the next few weeks are as follows:
10th Oct – New York New York, opposite Protur Hotel & Spa. 17th Oct – Suzi’s Tapas Bar, in the Urb., opposite Protur Hotel & Spa. 24th Oct – El Adel, next to Margar Mercado, in the Urb. 31st Oct – La Bodeguina, C/Sierra Nevada, Urb. 7th Nov – Blossom Cafe Bar (near to Brown Chairs). 14th Nov – to be confirmed. 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!
nOTICE bOARD
Roquetas Bridge club meets on Monday’s at 3pm. For more info please contact Alison Ferguson 950349749 or Sue Barlow 950 333 344
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION NOTICE FORTHCOMING SOCIAL EVENTS IN 2014 ROQUETAS DE MAR SUB-BRANCH 3569 Tuesday 4th November - 3pm - Social meeting at The Lodge and THE BIG POPPY APPEAL RAFFLE. If you have any prizes to donate, please contact Jenny or Barry. Many thanks. Tuesday 11th November - ‘Poppy Remembrance Luncheon’ at Restaurante Maracay in Plaza de Veracruz. A joint meeting with RBL Mojacar Branch. 1pm for 1.30pm – Lunch served at 2pm. Entertainment will be provided by the Pacar Dance School, and music/singing by Peter & Helen. Tuesday 2nd December – Christmas Lunch and short meeting at Bodegon Restaurante, Urb.
All monies raised at these events will go to the 2014 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.
PUB CHAPLINS oquetas R a, ad ev erra N 27 Calle SiSPORTS BAR
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32
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
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950 436 581 or 666 375 688
expectingababy.2006@gmail.com
Lounge/Dining Room Furniture Colour Brown Wood Effect, New Dining Room Table /Can Extend/ + 4 X Dark Brown Leather Chairs. TV Unit With 2 X Draws And X Sliding Doors For Underneath Space, Tall Unit With Frosted Glass Door And 3 X Doors, Cabinet With 2 X Drop Down Hinged Frosted Glass, Cupboard And Large Underneath Storage Cupboard, Coffee Table Frosted Glass Top And Wooden Surround, All Showroom Condition, Cost 1500€ Bargain 650€
email: info@md-aircon.com
blinds & screens
2 X Crystal Silver chandeliers New Condition Cost 300€, Bargain 150€ Or Will Seperate 75€ Each
Air-con
MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L. City & Guilds Fully Qualified F-Gas Certified
MD S.L
25 years sole experience in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
not a jack of all trades 950 432 110 / 607 364 917
607 364 917 or 950 432 110
Everything for the visiting baby Car seats, high chairs, stair gates, cots etc
md_aircon@mobileemail.vodafone.es Replace ment windows &
Digital Vision
Air Conditioning Services based in Mojacar & all areas with 10 years experience covered
We offer competitive affordable rates visit
doors tel: 600 049 515
business opportunity
“Internet Millionaire Reveals Secrets Of Making £1,000 A Week & More Without Any Previous Experience”
If you would like to start earning extra money now! Then the internet is definitely the place email: info@digitalvisiones.com to do this. You can earn money whilst relaxing by the pool or Tel: 645 294 064/950 472 081 even earn whilst you’re sleeping. moj a c a r This is the reality for people that are Airport te m p e r a t u r e making money online.
www.digitalvisiones.com
services
control For all your Aircon/ plumbing & www.howtomakemoneyfrommembershipsites.co.uk heating needs www. parking.es tel: John on 634 carpentry Tel: 639 081 067 342 520
For Free Information Visit
AA
Cheap
Airport Parking
Alicante Almeria Murcia New Servicing / Repairs
SOLTIMES
To advertise your business here Tel: Kate 950 121 936
alternative energy
Private parties Birthday etc, all events catered for call for more information
950 634 562
in Albox Private parties Birthday etc, all events catered for
call Bar for more
information:
950 120 718
ballroom dancing
Tea room ballroom dancing
sequence with jean & derek at
La
Hanging Doors Flat Pack Furniture Fitting Kitchens Tiling No Job Too Small Free Quotations Tel: 633 507 165
Solar Wind P o w er Solutions. Over 15 years installation experience. established 12 years in Spain. Call Phil for construction competitive prices 636 261 240 email: Arboleas builder, Fully info@sunergy legal, Call Steve on 950 930 536 a l m e r i a . c o m or 634 306 690 www.sunergy almeria.com
available venues Venue @ La Vida El Cucador
Bill’s Carpentry & Shop Fitting
el Cucador
VidaRestaurant&Venue mondays 3-5pm
all levels welcome single or couples enjoyable afternoon to meet new friends for more info call 950 449 617
QUALITY EXPRESS All types of construction works undertaken
Quality & fair Prices Guaranteed
Free Quotations
Call Carl on 677 091 240 for all your building needs
Pine Bedroom Furniture Package, Double Wardrobe With 4 & Draws With Large Silver Handles, Chest Of Draws Has 5 X Draws With Large Silver Handles Bedside Cabinets With 2 X Draws With Large Silver Handles, Double Headboard, Large Pine Mirror, All Showroom Condition Cost 1300€ Bargain 499€
Large Silver Mirrors Selection Available, Purchased From Decora in Vera Bargain 45€ Each 2 SINGLE WARDROBES Light Cream Colour With 2 Bottom Draws Size 191cm High X 101cm Wide X 52cm Deep. 2 X Matching Bedside Cabinets 57cm High X 48cm Wide X 30cm Deep And Matching Single Headboard. Very Good Condition 170€ SINGLE BED & Mattress New Perfect Condition 190cm Long X 85 Wide 60€ LARGE RED/RUG Shag Pile Slight Silver Thread Running Throughout. Size 2.4 M Length X 1.4m Wide Purchased From Casa New Condition 60€ TALL FLOOR LAMP Brown Bamboo & Red Fabric 25€ Large Picture Silver White & Red Pattern Size 150cm Wide X 50cm Deep 20€ Tel: 689 906 691 KITCHEN TABLE New White Glass Top /Grey Surround & 2 Matching Chairs/ Seats Are White Leather Look Size 90cm Length X 45 Cm Width / Will Extend To 90cm And 76 High Cost 240€ Bargain 120€
Tel: 689 906 691
construction cont...
Reform-it Right
Renovation specialist, general property maintenance, kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing and electrics, tiling, painting, landscaping, gardening, extensions, swimming pool etc Berja, Almerimar, Roquetas, Aguadulce No job too small English and spanish spoken Free quotes , advice available and any licence applications tel. Robert 662 20 38 91 email anguanchu@yahoo.es
computers Don Robinson pc consultant
Advice, Help, Training, Diagnosis & Repair, 15€ per hour min charge 1 hour + parts +IVA I come to you established 2008 comp TIA A+ certified Tel: 646 587 746 donald_gunn_robinson@msn.com
Steve Hayes Informatica
Pc’s, Laptops, Printers etc. Sales & Repairs on-site Callout/Tuition. Consumables Albox, Almeria Tel: 950 120 900
digital vision
Digital Vision
NEW KITCHEN At A Quarter Of The Cost. Then Read On. FOR SALE Complete Set Of Brand
New White Hygena Kitchen Doors, Inc 4 Base Unit Doors, 16 Cupboard Unit Doors, 4drawer
drainage
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
Pool Cleaning & Water Tanks
Contact: 675 838 808
•Tiling Satellite Services LICENSED POZO/septic tank emptying based in Mojacar & all areas •Plumbing with 10 years experience covered • Installation of new septic •balustrade tanks with certificates We offer competitive affordable rates •block work • Repairs to existing pozos visit •Re-forms www.digitalvisiones.com • CCTV Camera •central heating email: info@digitalvisiones.com Inspection
Tel: 620 112 193
Tel: 645 294 064/950 472 081
Unit Doors 1 Oven Hood Door . All Still In Boxes, Real Bargain At 275€. Cost Much More Tel:950 473 151 hP PHOTO SMART 7960 Printer Which Can Be Used As A Stand Alone Using SD Cards Or Direct From Computer. Full Instructions. 45€ Ono Tel: 650 487 304
Set Of Brass Type Door Fly Chains, Last For Ever As Opposed The Less Expensive Plastic Ones 30€ Mercedes Car Radio And Cassette Player, Not CD player. ONO Tel: 634 328 142 2 X Full Size Gas Fires 8 Months Old 75€ Each Cost 140 New, Compressor 295€, York Multi Gym with All Weights and Bench 300€. Tel: 634 305 776
Fr i d g e Freezer, In Perfect Condition Call Andy on 950 091 109 or 648 768 587 160€ Tel: 649 615 Email: blockeddrainsrus@albox-online.net 227 Zurgena
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
www.soltimes.com
www.soltimes.com gardening
legal services cont...
potty finca services 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
Legal Services including: Conveyancing, NIE, Wills & Inheritance, Residencias, Cadastre, Notary / Court, Translations and much more. We speak English, Spanish, French and Swedish. Call now !! Calle Dinamarca, Mojacar Playa
Tlf. 646 844 708
4wayconnections@gmail.com www.4wayconnections.webs.com
locksmith
Tel: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 ext 332 pets
plasterer
plumbing
No need for kennels or cattery Pet sitting in you own home, Arboleas & local area. Call Vanessa 637 061 482
British
KNOWLES plumbing
pet taxi TRAVELLING IN AIR CONDITIONED VEHICLE DELIVERED TO DOOR PETS STAY IN PET FRIENDLY HOTELS. ACCOMPANIED TRAVEL AVAILABLE
Phil the Pick Locksmith 24 hours. Locked Out? Locks fitted/ upgraded house safes. Arboleas avon cosmetics Tel Claire 691 & surrounding area. Special 987 454 avonfromclaire @yahoo.es weekend rates. Tel: 697 243 181 pamper yourself at R Retreat BE SEEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK, 365 DAYS A YEAR El Cucador, beauty treatments, With an entry in the hair salon, holistic massage, waxing, pedicure etc. Therapists all From just 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 NEW COMBINATION of Hits high Or email: sales@soltimes.com for details intensity Interval training toning & conditioning of entire body Tel Viki logs for sale on: 650 764 623 for more info
health & beauty
(0034) 667 235 205 (sp) (0044) 7850 575862
plasterer
All work Guaranteed
Tel:Paul 634 327 201
www.soltimes.com
Tel: Paulette on 950 121 936
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
insurance
albox insurance
Award winning agent For all your Insurance Needs Please contact
est 7 years
Glenn & jayne 950 121 943
infoalbox.libertyseguros@gmail.com
iron/metal works The Metal works Grills, railings, gates of all types, security/sliding/ roller, rejas, concertina doors etc. Tel: Keith Wood on 638 900 949
legal services
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
Whether you are buying or selling we will be delighted to hear from you
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
TELEPHONE: 950137197 / 606807797
If you would like any further information about FIZZ, please contact Diane on 950 617 643 or Sam on 627 835 109.
PROPERTY
reduced further
€125,000 ono 649 186 107 or email
Call Lee on 636 092 632 eliteplanthire@hotmail.co.uk
Call Stephen 636 266 641 email info@findmeahome.es Find us online at www.findmeahome.es facebook.com/findmeahome
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.
PAINTER
VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT
front line
painter & decorator all types of exterior & interior work
ring for a free quote
Tel: 649 186 107 or
email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com All aspects of P&D Interior & Exterior Gates, Rejas & Boundary Walls Free Quotations john.colbert@hotmail.co.uk
Tel: 662 597 596
thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com
mojacar playa
SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL
friendly - professional -reliable
John The Painter
If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic in our regular space on pg 17, please email info@daviessolicitors.com
Specialising in rural property with character
No 1 for Plumbing
All types of Plumbing
FIZZ Female Cat D.O.B.: 01 / 07 / 2010 Fizz initially came to the shelter nearly three years ago. After sometime in foster care Fizz finally came to the shelter where she has remained ever since. She has not coped well with shelter life and has been very timid. However over the last couple of months she has shown immense improvement and has started to come out of her shell. She now meows and purrs a plenty and wants lots of strokes and attention. She is a beautiful girl and would make anyone a lovely companion.
SOLTIMES business directory €1 per week
hobby/craft
33
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
€68,995
1 bed, 1 bath Apartment with private, gated parking & gardens. Communal pool. Possible sitting tenant. Walking distance to amenities, shops and restaurants Opposite beach Good investment.
T: 646 844 708
Your property will appear as shown above and be seen by almost 55,000 Sol Times readers! Call Paulette TODAY
on 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 Ext 332
property services
Full Villa Maintenance
from repairs to new installs, cleaning, also meet & greet taix to airports
Give
John & Shaz
a call on 634 342 520
we do
gardening tiling painting cleaning etc give us a call on 649 186 107
free
quotations & good prices
Only 10€ per week! lineage from only 45c per word
34
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES
SOLTIMES OCTOBER 2014
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
removals
sat/tv services
situations vacant
advertise your business 1.9 satellite dishes
Your business will appear as shown below and be seen by 55,000 Sol Times readers!
now in stock
SPAIN UK SPAIN Removals
excellent prices
tel: Kate on 950 121 936
Friendly Reliable Service Fully Legal Special deal from UK - Spain Office: 968 564 298 Mobile: 696 621 884
marmenorremovals@hotmail.com
UK - SPAIN - UK
From a parcel to a small house move Professional,Friendly & Caring Fully insured, scheduled monthly door to door service
uk@fmtransport.co.uk
Tel: 620 112 193 642 310 103 upholstery
CUSHIONS CUSTOm MADE
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
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
LUBRIN ALMERIA SPAIN & ESSEX UK Unwanted items bought for CASH Call: 634 310 512/634 349 347 or 07434434820
REMOVALS safe & secure transport
spain uk spain
friendly reliable All jobs considered
Call John on UK: 00447 939 88 0110 Spain: 0034 634 368 071
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
has a vacancy for
We need an artworker to join our expanding for our bar & restaurant design team. English/Spanish speaking an advantage If you have a creative eye part time flexible hours & can work to deadlines we want to hear call rob on from you
bar staff
609 199 394
•Foam replacement •Interior/Exterior Fabrics •Free estimates
Please send your CV to editor@soltimes.com
or email CV to
rob@soltimes.com
Tel: 692 176 069
motoring section
www.fmtransport.co.uk
+44 (0) 1582 499 836 +44 (0) 7977 754 389
INDESIGN & PHOTOSHOp
La Vida restaurant el cucador zurgena
car remapping
number plates
veloc tuning ecu
“RE-PLATE” MATE
Save 20% on your vehicle fuel costs plus increased performance Guaranteed
GB
Remapping Services
www.veloc-ecu-remapping-spain.com
950 104 488 or 600 827 517 mobile mechanics
car & van hire
Van hire
Mobile motor
ONE WAY
mechanic
UK to Spain or Spain to UK
*LOCAL *NATIONAL *EUROPEAN
* COLLECTION & DELIVERY *STORAGE
TEL: 667 235 205
Pick up/drop off locations Throughout UK, France and Spain
covering all areas, fully qualified & legal, over 30 years experience, Call Paul on 617 150 300
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
wanted
wanted uk cars & vans bought for cash Telephone
634 345 257
for sale
ford tourneo
small van 104,000kms, 2005 very good condition
2750€ ono
tel: 660 897 717
Do you have a caravan, vehicle, boat or motor bike for sale To advertise your vehicle in the motoring section & reach over 32,000 readers
this space for only 15€
Casa Naranja Motos cars & vans 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
wanted for cash
1 hour service guaranteed telephone
661 143 871
all areas covered
contact kate - 950 121 936
SOLTIMES october 2014
www.soltimes.com
viewpoint
into which I could put my bounty. Eagerly anticipating homemade chips by suppertime I went forth and gently inserted a trowel into the soil, being careful not to damage the tubers below, which by now I reckoned, must be cheek by jowl and shoulder to shoulder, if potatoes have shoulders, cheeks and jowls. With all the tender care of an archaeologist unearthing a precious artefact I levered the soil up, gingerly took hold of a potato stalk and carefully prised it from the enclosing earth. It came up, completely free of any semblance of potato whatsoever! Obviously there must be so many great big heavy potatoes in the soil that the stalk could not hold on to them, I thought, so I rooted around with my fingers, searching diligently for the hidden treasure. At first I thought I had found a stone. Or to be honest, a pebble. But no, it was a potato; a potato about the size of a small marble. More searching revealed more pebble sized potatoes. I threw caution to the winds, and plunged the trowel in randomly around the plants, rooting around more like a boar after truffles than an archaeologist after artefacts. In all I came upon about 30 of them, the largest about the size of a golf ball that had been sat upon by an elephant, and squashed almost flat. Homemade chips indeed! Anyone for josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk a game of marbles?
By Jos Biggs
Strictly Contrived, Strictly Underwhelmed
He was this years comedy contestant. But Greg Wallace didn’t rack up enough votes from the viewers, as he became the first celeb to be voted off ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ last weekend. Unlike last year’s amusingly bad dancer, Hairy Biker Dave Myers, who lasted several weeks despite getting bad scores from the judges, the ‘Master Chef’ judge didn’t win over the public. Gregg was in the bottom two and in the dreaded dance-off against ‘Mrs Brown’s Boy’ star Jennifer Gibney, with all four judges choosing to save Jennifer over Gregg. Ouch. Tasty! Gregg’s time on ‘Strictly’ was marked from the start with drama after his pro partner Alionas less than enthusiastic reaction to being paired with him in the launch show. That tension wasn’t helped when Gregg revealed that he probably would have preferred Karen Hauer. Not the best start to a partnership. By the end, though, Aliona and Gregg had seemed to come to a happier place, with Gregg saying to his pro on his exit: “Thank you so much for your patience – you are a saint!” and Aliona tweeting: “Proud of @ GreggAWallace for delivering a lovely and fun charlston! Well done! Thanks Gregg for giving it your all!” Afterwards, Gregg told Tess Daly the show was: “The most terrifying thing I have ever, ever done. What I really liked most of all was practice, coming in here really scared me.” He wasn’t joking, as he revealed in his blog, that he needed therapy to get through the show and was “in floods of tears”. Poor Gregg! We want to give him a massive hug now. The former greengrocer wrote that he became close with fellow
contestant Simon Webbe, and how he had a whisky with him plus Steve Backshall and Thom Evans after Saturday’s show. Gregg found himself in hot water last week when he made comments during his interview on Alan Carr’s ‘Chatty Man’ about female presenters. When talking about ‘Strictly’ having two female co-presenters, Gregg said: “It would not work with cooking. You could not have two female judges on Master Chef, it’s a blokey thing.” The Fawcett Society, the UK’s leading campaigners on women’s rights and gender equality, told the Daily Mirror that Gregg, “should be ashamed of himself”. Gregg might not have impressed the judges, but ironically he didn’t score badly enough to gain the public’s sympathy. Judy Murray ended up bottom of the leader board, with Gregg joint second from bottom alongside Scott Mills. Being the outright underdog could have saved Gregg’s bacon – sorry for that! As for the rest of them, the stand out (for good reasons) was Jake Wood who topped the leader board with his Salsa to “Mambo No.5”. Who knew Max Branning had such snake hips? Next week is Movie Week, but there’ll be no greengrocer going to Hollywood. Bye bye Gregg. I shall return to things more normal next week, mundane even, but for the moment, the nation is gripped by Strictly fever . . . or so the tabloids would have us believe. I feel a yawn coming on. Hasta next week everyone. By Paul Martin
John MacDonald (El Sordo) - www.caratacus.eu
Homemade Chips The garden, despite having been largely neglected for a couple of years or more, has this year responded to my sporadic bursts of care with reasonably successful results. Two years ago I planted potatoes in two big tubs. They flourished, but I was otherwise engaged, and left them until too late. Never mind, I thought, they are in the ground, the potatoes of the original potatoes will produce potatoes, so we’ll have even more potatoes! The same thing happened last year. Again I thought Never mind, the potatoes of the potatoes of the potatoes will produce potatoes, we’ll have third generation potatoes, enough to stock a chip shop! This year, however, I had time at the right time. I lavished loving care upon them. I watered them copiously, and engaged them in conversation almost daily, though the input was rather one-sided; potatoes are not great at repartee. The plants flourished, large, green and lush. They flowered and fell over, as potato plants should. At what I judged to be the pivotal moment I armed myself with a large flower pot
35
alqueria The Fishermen of Alqueria
The news that Alqueria possesses a fishing fleet may come as a surprise to some especially when one considers that the Village Republic is landlocked. However when one considers the recent compensation package for small fishing fleets it is of no surprise. The ‘International Committee for the Perpetuation of Corporate Plundering of the World’s Oceans’ offers financial incentives to keep small fishing fleets in harbour. This will allow larger and more highly mechanised fleets free reign to remove anything that lives from the seas and so turn our oceans into watery wastelands. Alqueria began a massive program of boat building. Well, they converted an old bathtub to look something like a small fishing boat, if one uses one’s imagination that is. The vessel was christened the ‘Fletán Feliz’ with Loco Paco its master. Loco Paco, in his strange surreal world of smoke and mirrors believed it to be a real and seaworthy craft. The thinking was that if Paco believed the craft to be real he would sound more convincing if questioned by the Committee. The Committee did come to Alqueria. The Committee did question Paco but the Committee didn’t offer any cash to keep the Alquerian fishing fleet in harbour. The Committee did however give Paco a license to fish and promised to monitor the Alquerian fleet closely. Paco was jubilant but not flavour of the month with other Alquerians. As the Committee was so impressed by Paco it forces one to question the sanity of those that select these Committees in the first place. So, Alqueria had a license to fish in a non-existent sea while their non-existent fishing fleet was to be monitored by an
international agency. Paco had certainly surpassed himself this time. What to do? Using cold logic, all that was needed to be done was to ‘disappear’ the fleet. This would be simple as there is no fleet to actually disappear. With no fleet the license would be negated and with no fleet there would be nothing to monitor. It would be back to square one, but an uncomplicated square one. Alquerians understood ‘uncomplicated’. A note was duly sent to the Committee reporting the loss of the fleet. Aid poured in from western countries eager to be seen to be doing their ‘bit’ for the unfortunate people of Alqueria. These self-satisfied nations pointed to Alqueria as proof that their foreign policies were working. When it was pointed out by some over enthusiastic bureaucrat that Alqueria is in fact landlocked the funding stopped abruptly. The donor countries were too embarrassed to admit their mistake and simply forgot that it ever happened. This is a mechanism the richer nations use with some effect to protect them from the spectres of the past.
advance moves
Leading Removal Company reports on strengthening housing market One of Spain’s top removal companies has reported that they experienced a resurgence in the Spanish housing market during 2013 and it looks like 2014 will be an even busier year. Mat Ford-Dunn, the Managing Director of ‘Advance Moves International Removals’ pointed to the fact that many property values in Spain have now fallen to a much more realistic level and this has definitely resulted in increased house sales. This has been noticed in all regions of Spain as Advance Moves operate their relocation services throughout the mainland. Advance Moves has its main warehouse in Murcia, Spain, with an additional warehouse in Kent in the UK and has had to purchase 5 new vans and trucks to cope with the increased demand over the past year. The UK housing market is also in a state of recovery and increased house sales have resulted in more people selling up and looking to buy in Spain. There are many factors that
tempt expats to Spain, not least the recent periods of turbulent weather, which many parts of the UK have suffered. On the flip side, for economic reasons many British Expats are now able to sell properties in Spain and Advance Moves are often the first choice when it comes to repatriating them back to the UK. Mat was also keen to point out that the increase in demand for their removal services was also down to the level of service and expertise that Advance moves offer to their clients and the fact that many clients had already seen the brightly liveried vehicles on the roads undertaking their removal services. Advance moves is also a member of the British Association of Removers and one of only a few companies that export wrap furniture to provide extra protection for international removals. ‘Our clients know that they are getting a more competitively priced, premium removal service, when compared to the rest of the market. The increased volume of removals enables Advance Moves to offer their clients a more regular and flexible timetable for their individual removal requirements’ Mat sees the trend continuing throughout 2014 with the housing market in the UK and Spain continuing to make steady process. Advance Moves are gearing up for another busy year.
36
...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES El Real Industrial Estate Antas
SOLTIMES october 2014
koal a furniture s.l SOFAS - MATTRESSES - GARDEN FURNITURE RECLINER SOFAS LEATHER SOFAS - PACKAGES
FURNITURE
POL.IND.EL REAL C/VENTE VACIO E-14 04628 ANTAS - ALMERIA
Koala Furniture for superior quality with excellent service. Everything that you would need to exhance the beauty of your home quality rattan luxury furniture at great prices
Tel: 950 392 307
Email: koalafurniture@outlook.com www.koalafurniture.es
TYRE KING The Best Deal for Miles
car - motorcycle - van - 4x4 Motorhome quad - trailer - wheelbarrow
monday to friday 10:00am to 19:00 saturday 10:00am - 14:00 POL.IND.EL REAL C/VENTE VACIO E-14 04628 ANTAS - ALMERIA TEL: 950 392 307 MOVIL: 627 215 345 www.KOALAFURNITURE.ES koalafurniture@outlook.com
●A ll New Tyres Supplied Have Manufacturers Warranty ●C omputerised Tracking Including 4x4s ● While You Wait Service
● Large Stock Available ● MotorbikeTyre Specialists ● Headlamp Polishing
Poligono El Real, Calle El Garcel F19, Antas, Almeria 04628
Open: Mon - Fri: 9.30 - 17.30
Tel: 950 459 253
www. tyreking.es e: tyreking@ymail.com
Vera
tyre king
petrol station E15/A7 MOTORWAY Exit 534
Antas
Taller DAYDO
The Bitterness Of Poor Quality Is Remembered Long After The Sweetness Of The Lowest Price Is Forgotten
Repair - Service - Buy - Sales - Import Aircondition Service for all Types Pool Safety Fencing
ITV / PRE ITV - HOMOLOGATION - EXHAUST - CLUTCH - ENGINE SUSPENSION - TRANSMISSION - TOWBARS etc........ all work guaranteed diagnosis service, emission test (petrol cars) paint and bodywork done by experienced sub contractor Vera
Antas
E POT BLACK
Poligono El Real de Antas, 04628 Antas
CAR AIRCONDITIONING
fly free enclosures
Frameless Glass Curtain Systems New Innovative Pool Safety Fencing FlowPlast Guttering & Drainage Systems High Quality Glazing (Sliding/Folding/Hinged) Insect Screening for any Area Fixed or Fully Retractable Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm
for 43€
Complete Import service
Petrol Station TALLER DAYDO
COUPON
if you present this coupon in our office we will re-gas your
glass curtains
0000 XXX SPANISH PLATES
service for most vehicles from 85€
Tel & Fax: 950 459 116 - Mob: 607 373 298 tallerdaydo@hotmail.com
Parque Ind El Real, Calle El Garcel 11, Antas, Exit 534 E15 Autovia
Tel: 950 459 060 M. 638 063 196 / 649 482 677 info@lifestyle-enclosures.com Find www.lifestyle-enclosures.com us on
SOLTIMES october 2014
www.soltimes.com
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motoring
What’s the best way of transporting six people in comfort? The Kia Sorento, of course !!! By Tim Saunders A road trip to the west of France puts the Kia through its paces. It clocks up over 1,500 miles on a variety of terrains while carrying six occupants including my wife’s parents. When six people want to go travelling there are only a small number of vehicles that will satisfy this need and fewer still that provide adequate room for everyone. But the Kia scores highly not least because it doesn’t actually look that large and cumbersome from the outside. It’s a bit of a tardis because there’s plenty of room inside for four adults and two children. And it would even carry another passenger if necessary without compromise. With our two daughters, Harriett (3) and Heidi (1) in the boot, there is little space left for luggage. That’s where the Thule roof box comes into its own because even though we opt for the smaller Touring 100 model it surprisingly fits our pushchair and three sizeable bags, two of which are Thule Chasm duffel bags. That roof box in itself is deceptive. I have never fitted one until now and confess to being a little confused by the instructions so much so that after successfully fitting the roofbars I venture to my local branch of Halfords where expert fitter Colin happily shows me how to fit the roofbox. It’s actually very simple as you can see in the videos at testdrives.biz. While driving with a roofbox it is advisable not to exceed 83mph (135kph). The Kia will travel almost 500 miles on a single tank of diesel and that’s with the roof box fitted; the Sorento’s economy setting squeezes as much as possible out of the fuel. The model tested has an automatic gearbox and cruise control so continental touring is easy. Surprisingly, it’s easy to park too; I squeeze into a very tight spot by the roadside in Melle, as onlookers watch
with bated breath. Probably 350 miles into the journey from Cherbourg to Crezieres my neck starts aching, suggesting to me that the driver’s seat could be more supportive. Admittedly, I am a temperamental customer but there are better car seats. However, there are no complaints from my fellow travellers and the black leather interior is hardwearing. Far from being a slow vehicle the 2.2litre diesel is gutsy, if required. When we realise that we’re not going to get to our destination at the time we had hoped we start travelling with a bit of oomph and it’s a real joy. There are some great overtaking opportunities on the quiet roads and the ride height of the Sorento really helps the driver to see far ahead to overtake in absolute safety. When braking at speed it is not as quick to slow down because of its height and weight but still it is impressive. The sat nav proves a great resource during our trip and at first I do not understand why it refuses to take us on toll roads. When an alternative route is provided by our hosts that sees us travelling through three tolls at a cost of 40 euros, I understand. The toll roads in France really do seem expensive these days especially when considering that gazole (diesel) costs 1.29 euros per litre meaning that the Kia can be filled up from empty for around 60 euros. Okay the toll roads might knock off a couple of hours from the route but if you’ve got that time to spend it’s actually a cheaper more enjoyable alternative to drive through the towns and to stop off and explore. Needless to say the Kia becomes a great friend over the course of the trip. The children love it in the back and especially enjoy being able to control their own air vents. There are also controls at the front for operating the front and rear air conditioning. The camera for
reversing that appears in the centre console is also helpful. Power folding wing mirrors are a neat touch especially useful for roadside parking. The rear privacy glass is generally much appreciated although the UK Border Agency doesn’t approve at passport control because they can’t see all the occupants! It becomes frustrating that the Kia does not let me open another door or the boot if I leave the key in the ignition; this happens a number of times on the holiday and I have to unlock the doors before I exit. Equally at home on the motorway or pottering around the town it shines when off-roading, as you can see in the videos at testdrives.biz. Facts at a glance 2.2CRDi AWD New price range: £26,700 - £36,505 0-60mph: 9.4secs Top speed: 118mph Power: 194bhp Economy: 35mpg Road tax: £285 Watch the videos at www.testdrives.biz
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SOLTIMES october 2014
sport
SPORTs shorts
19th Hole Golf Society Thursday 2nd October the 19th of a very pleasant day out.
Hole ventured up the A7 to the Lorca Golf Resort to play a four and three ball Texas Scramble. It soon became clear that it was to be a competition between two sets of Texas Banditos. First surprise was the team of Terry Caddick , John Ball, Alan Chippendale and Mick Crasswell returning to the club house with a brilliant nett 60, 11 under par and smug looks on faces , fully expecting to achieve first place with such a good score. However Nigel Greenwoods bunch of bandits, Nick Pogson, Gary Hammer and David White had other ideas returning a massive nett 59. All of the six groups achieved either Nett par or better, a testament mainly to how good the greens are at this well kept venue. Back to La Vida for refreshments and nibbles to round
Valle Del Este There were 78 eager players who
gathered in the pro shop at Valle Del Este early on Saturday morning in readiness for the Asprodalba charity event, however we were to be disappointed, due to the storms and flooding the course had to be closed for the first time this year. What a disappointment for all concerned as everything was ready, buggies all numbered, picnics prepared and all the sponsorship posters up. Good News though, the event has been rebooked for Saturday 1st
Result 1st Nigel Greenwoods, Nick Pogson, Gary Hammer and David White Nett 59 2nd Terry Caddick , John Ball, Alan Chippendale and Mick Crasswell Nett 60 Nearest the Pin. 4th Hole Syd Walker 8th Hole Chris Dow 10th Hole Alan Chipendale The 19th hole G/S is now arranging weekly games at various courses in the area, our home course, which we play fortnightly, is Aguilon. If you are interested in joining or playing with the 19th hole give the secretary a ring on 610340653. Or email gs19thhole@hotmail.co.uk
November, thank you to Lumi and her staff in the pro shop for sorting this out for us.. All previously sponsorships will be honoured. Anyone who would like to take part either as a player or sponsor on the new date can contact Alan on mobile 634379887 or email vdegolfsociety@ gmail.com Tuesday and players went off the whites at valle del este with Ian Jones scoring 34 points and cutting his handicap to 9, well played.
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• Lewis Hamilton claimed his eighth F1 victory of the year in the Japanese Grand Prix. In atrocious conditions (torrential rain) Hamilton produced one of his greatest drives ever to beat Nico Rosberg with Sebastian Vettel third. Hamilton is 10 points clear of Rosberg in the driver’s championship with four GPs remaining. • Unfortunately Hamilton’s victory in Suzuka was subdued following an accident involving Marussia’s French driver Jules Bianchi (25) who was taken to hospital, with serious head injuries after crashing into a recovery vehicle. • 72 hours earlier, Dutchman Max Verstappen (17) became the youngest ever F1 driver, taking charge of a Toro Rosso car in the first practice session. • Former Italian F1 driver Andrea De Cesaris (55) has been killed in a motorbike accident in Rome, • Onto Football, and last week there were Champions League wins for Chelsea and Real Madrid, draws for Arsenal and Manchester City and defeat for Barcelona, while in the Europa League, Celtic won while Everton and Tottenham both drew their group games. • In the Premiership last weekend, there were wins for leaders Chelsea over Arsenal; Manchester City at Aston Villa; Hull against Crystal Palace; Liverpool versus WBA; Manchester United over Everton; Sunderland v Stoke; Tottenham v Southampton and West Ham v QPR 2-0. The SwanseaNewcastle and Leicester-Burnley games ended level. • There were Championship wins for Blackpool, Bournemouth, Brentford and Middlesbrough; leaders Norwich drew with Rotherham. • Bristol City, top of FL1, drew at Walsall while in-form Swindon (second) won at Leyton Orient. Bury, who beat Tranmere are top of FL2. • In the SPL Hamilton beat Celtic at Parkhead for the first time since 1938. • Lionel Messi netted again in Barcelona’s win over nine-man Rayo Vallecano. The Argentinian is on 249 La Liga goals, two behind Telmo
AutoFrio
by Tony Matthews
Zarra’s record of 251, set 60 years ago. Atletico Madrid lost at Valencia, Real Madrid thumped Atletico Bilbao 5-0 with Cristiano Ronaldo’s third hat-trick in four games, Almeria and Elche drew, Sevilla beat La Coruna and Malaga defeated Granada . • PL/Championship clubs take a rest this weekend due to the Euro 2016 qualifiers, but in Leagues 1 and 2 the top games are Bristol City-Chesterfield, Swindon-PNE, Wimbledon-Bury and Northampton-Burton Albion. • Rugby League’s 2014 Super Grand final will feature St Helens v Wigan Warriors. • Treve won Sunday’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe - the first horse since Alleged in 1978 to win Europe’s richest race in successive years. • Novak Djokovic won the China Open, beating Thomas Berdych in the final. Maria Sharapova took the women’s title. • Sebastian Vettel will drive for Ferrari next year, while Fernando Alonso will join McLaren. • World number 792 Oliver Wilson (GB) has won his first-ever PGA European title - the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. EVENTS…From today until 12 October the World Artistic Gymnastic Championships are taking place in China. Tomorrow England play San Marino in a ECQ at Wembley while Wales meet Bosnia & Herzegovina and England’s U21s meet Croatia at Molineux. On Saturday, we have The Cesarewitch at Newmarket; the FA Cup 3rd qualifying round; N. Ireland-Faroe Islands, EireGibralter, Scotland-Georgia in ECQ and Rugby League’s Grand final at Old Trafford. On Sunday, it’s the Russian Grand Prix (Sochi) and the Japanese MotoGp (Moteqi) while Estonia play England, ECQ. And on Monday, Wales meet Cyprus, ECQ followed on Tuesday by Germany-Eire, Greece-N. Ireland, Poland-Scotland and Croatia-England U21.
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EDITOR: editor@soltimes.com sales@soltimes.com POSTAL ADDRESS: Matthews Media SL, Los Carasoles, 27 - 04650, Zurgena, Almeria
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
SOLTIMES october 2014
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ANDALUCÍAN LAWN BOWLS CHAMPIONSHIPS 2014 From 26th September to 1st October almost 150 members of the Federación Andaluca de Bolos took part in this year’s championships with the disciplines being Mixed Fours, Ladies’ and Men’s Pairs & Ladies’ and Men’s Singles. Around 50 of the competitors travelled from various bowling clubs in Malaga to take part. The games were held at Almeria, Mojácar and Indalo Bowling clubs with the majority of the matches being held at Indalo. Months of planning had gone into this 6 day tournament and after the fantastic weather that we had been experiencing in this area over the summer months it just had to break right at that week! The whole of
Forum Golf Society
For the second year in a row Fran Elam takes a lead into the final round of the Forum Golf Society Championship after scoring a massive 43 points in the first round at Lorca on September 26th On a day when the recent rain made the greens very receptive (provided that you could actually hit them) the top six players will all have handicap cuts before the next event, with Peter Harrington securing the Claret Jug League with an event to spare and
the play on Saturday was rained off as the greens were flooded and this meant a real headache for the organisers having to reschedule all of the remaining matches “on the hoof” as it were. An executive decision was made to cut the Mixed Rinks and the Pairs down to 12 ends instead of 18 and with a lot of hard work and pulling together as a team we managed to get all the games in. All the finals were completed on Wednesday 1st October (albeit a little later than planned) and the winners were as follows: Men’s Singles: Winner – Tom Rogers (Lauro B.C.) Finalist – John Dedman (Indalo B.C.)
taking second place on the day with 40 points. Adrian Lawrence (3rd) beat Maurice Jamieson (4th) on countback after both players scored 39 points, with Phil Elam (38 points) fifth & Brian Gyer (37 points) sixth. Nearest the pin prizes went to Anne Holder, Dave Jordan & John Holder, with Adrian Lawrence rounding off a very good day by also taking the longest drive prize Forum´s upcoming fixtures are : 6th October UK v Spain Ryder Cup Qualifying Round at Aguilon 10th October Society Championship Final Round (and Ford League Qualifier) at Valle del Este 15th October UK v Spain Ryder Cup Qualifying round at Aguilon For further information, contact Phil Elam on 666 847840 / philjelam@yahoo.co.uk, or see www. forumgolfsociety.webs.com
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Ladies’ Singles: Winner – Linda Lester (Indalo B.C.) Finalist – Doreen Hall (Indalo B.C.) Men’s Pairs: Winners – Gordon Kain/ Mike Glitheroe (Superbowl B.C.) Finalists – Austin Crilly/John Henworth (Indalo B.C.) Ladies’ Pairs: Winners – Barbara Land (Mijas B.C.)/Mary Detheridge (Superbowl B.C.) Finalists – Linda Lester/Lois Swaine (Indalo B.C.) Mixed Rinks: Winners – Tom Rogers (Lauro B.C.)/Barbara Land (Mijas
B.C.)/Terry Morgan (Bel Playa)/Mary Detheridge (Superbowl) Finalists – Mike Detheridge (Superbowl)/Garry Aldridge (Bel Playa)/Terry Groom (Superbowl)/Jenny Aldridge (Bel Playa) Having reached the quarter finals of the Men’s Pairs and having won both the Mixed Rinks and the Men’s Singles Tom Rogers of Lauro Bowling Club was the “Player of the Tournament”. JAN DANDO, F.A.B. DELEGATE
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Almeria Airport Back In The News Again By Martin Shortland
the region. The cutting of many of the summer routes is already being felt by frequent flyers, who are faced with the familiar problems of how to get to their holiday homes in the area, with so few flights available.
It seems that controversy is never far away where the local airport is concerned. A few weeks ago, I reported the disturbing news that more than a dozen flights over the busy summer period had been diverted to other airports, because of the 10.30 pm closure of the Almeria runway. Imagine the concern for travellers to be told at the last minute, they would be landing at either Alicante or Malaga. In some cases, people were spending another 5 – 6 hours getting to their final destinations. The closure of the airport at anytime would be bad enough, but to impose landing and take-off restrictions in the height of the tourist season seems downright ludicrous. The airport operators gave the reasons as being for noise limitation at night, when planes had to use the westerly runway, the flight paths taking them over a residential area. Many of the diverted flights, failed to inform passengers until the last moment, although the flight operators knew in advance the closure time at Almeria, and clearly knew in advance they would not reach the airport in time to land. Now, another bombshell has been dropped, again by the airport operator. The latest accounting figures were released this week by Aena, the operator of Almeria airport. The accounts to the end of 2012 show a huge operational loss of
7.9 million euros; predictions being made for last year are said to be about the same amount. This comes on the back of a report in March by the Council of Andalucia, requesting government confirmation of the long term viability of the airport. As I reported at the time, the council was worried about a government proposal for small airports – Almeria included – cutting back on operational hours with the inevitable loss of some connecting routes. The knock on effect would mean job losses, fewer flights and more worryingly, fewer tourists for the already struggling economy of
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In a statement to coincide with the release of the trading figures, Aena put the losses down to the extension and improvement work over the last three years, the bill for this being in the region of 40 million euros. The statement said, “An investment of this size requires a series of annual depreciations and these are reflected in the latest set of figures.” They said the improvements to the airport would ensure its long term future, as it was now capable of handling almost 3 million passengers a year, more than three times the current number. This is all very well in theory, but the four regional airports mentioned in the government report – Almeria, Sevilla, Granada, Cordoba - handle less than 2.5 million passengers between them. With all the work completed, Aena now plan to quote, ‘tighten their belts,’ in order to cut back on expenditure and are proposing a number of austerity measures to make this possible, but stress this will not mean job losses. They intend to make more efficient use of their services and also obtain more operations, both in freight and passenger traffic. New freight traffic will come through the development of the already large commercial area and increased passenger numbers through more aggressive marketing. As most regular users of the airport already know, what it desperately needs is more flights; quite why that hasn’t happened is anyone’s guess. The facilities are in place to handle many more flights than at present, but for most of the time, it has all the feel of ‘something waiting to happen’. Let’s hope Aena are true to their word and the planned austerity measures have a positive effect on the future of the local airport. But in the meantime, that huge question mark which has hung over the airport for so many years, still remains firmly in place. Whenever I speak to visitors, they all repeat the same question to me – why is the airport so under used? It’s a very good question and one which I have tried to provide an answer to for a long, long time. Whoever I seek out
to ask about the situation inevitably passes me onto someone else. The impression I get is of incompetence and complacency throughout. The Council of Andalucia refers me to the Tourist Board of Andalucia, who refer me to the Flight Operators Association, who refer me to the Tourist Operators Association, who refer me to the Council of Andalucia, and so it goes on; I’ve travelled full circle and am none the wiser for it. The thousands of regular visitors to Roquetas and Almeria are in turn, none the wiser and they are the ones pulling their hair out over the futility of the situation. Last week I spoke to Roy Dixon, a regular visitor to the family apartment in Roquetas for more than 20 years. Roy is 84 years old, has recently lost his wife of sixty years and has undergone heart bypass surgery. His is a typical story and sums up the frustration felt by so many people who want to visit the region, but can’t because they can’t get here. Roy lives in Leicester and during the season is able to fly to Almeria from West Midlands airport. But the flights only operate between May and September; he made his last visit last week and caught the last flight home – literally – as the route ceased to operate on the 4th October. His and many people’s only options then become ridiculous. If he wants to get here between October and May, it’s a bleak prospect: travel to Manchester or Gatwick, both costly and difficult and be faced with having to then travel up from Malaga, either on a bus, or in a hire car, which with his health problems is out of the question. So basically, Roy can’t come to the Spanish home he loves and which holds such fond memories for him, purely because the airport just 30 minutes away is operating at less than a fraction of its potential capacity. I will continue to do my best to uncover what has become an enigma of great proportions, right on our doorsteps – why is the local airport in such trouble? It just doesn’t make sense. Everything is here to make it – in theory – one of the most successful regional airports in Spain. The weather, the resorts, the mountains, the beaches, the food and hotels. And yet? These latest figures means the future, incredibly, of our local airport is yet again being cast in doubt. It’s quite astounding.