The Canary News, Views & Sunshine 01 2014

01. 2014

GRAN CANARIA’S

DOCTOR

SUNSHINE

Born on Gran Canaria, the island boasting the most sunshine hours in Europe, Dr. Néstor ‘Sunshine’ Santana knows all about great skin.

he is a specialist in dermatological medicine.

His primary focus is skin health, dealing with infections of the skin, His handsome, fresh open face, aesthetic dermatology, skin cancer cheeks rose-flushed with the glow as well as conditions connected to of good health, is the cause of an psoriasis, both mild and chronic, occasional swoon among his colacne and rosacea, a patchy redleagues and patients at the Masness of the facial skin so common palomas San Roque Hospital where among people from northwestern

europe that it has been nicknamed “the curse of the celts” by some in Britain and Ireland. He is keen eyed, and clearly passionate about his subject.

You might think that the Hospital San Roque dermatology department would be dealing more with residents of the island continued page 3 than with tourists...

Oct-Nov 2013

News, Views & Sunshine

The Best Little Party of the Year!

Just after Christmas THE PARTY of the year was held at El Cardonal Pool Bar in Sonnenland. Ms. Sarah Elf O’Neill generously opened her pool bar to a group of deserving Canarian children who were entertained and amply fed and ‘cola’ed while waiting for the highlight of Papa Noel’s visit.

Mrs. Karen Williams-Claus had prepared well for Mr. Santa’s visit, as mothers and grandmothers do every year, collecting, packing and labelling individual gifts for each child.

But waiting for Santa is an arduous business, so games were organised in great British style: pass the parcel and musical chairs may have been new to these kids but with a little encouragement from Ms. Jenni H.K. Noel they soon learned and joined in the fun.

Making their debut at this event were Ms. Popcorn and Mr. Candy Floss, a dubious duo, both of whom were immensely popular with kids large and small. Fun dollars were distributed as legal tender for the candy stall, ensuring everyone got fair shares and no child needed stomach-pumping.

Even so we have never seen so much candyfloss devoured so quickly by so few children, a very popular novelty treat. Thank you Sanna Popcorn and Eddie Candy Floss, good luck with your new careers!

In spite of the intake of sweets and cola, party games left the children with an impressive appetite for Sarah’s delicious burgers, hotdogs, vegetarian macaroni in homemade tomato sauce and salad. And more fizzy drinks! Then suddenly from nowhere appeared a familiar red-clad figure calling Ho, Ho, Ho!… Many thanks to the whole team, we will be back! Children supplied mostly by the Arguineguin Food Project Reporting by Santa’s reindeer

N ews ,

& S unshine

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bers of the LGBT business community includng Phil Brocklehurst and Ladina Heinrich representing GLAY.

The

FITUR Gran Canaria featured this year at the main Tourism Fair in Madrid, Fitur, with their own stand for the third consecutive year presenting the island as a “unique and different” family destination.

The president of the Cabildo, José Miguel Bravo de Laguna, was present along with the island Councillor for Tourism, Melchor Camon, and the councillor for Agriculture, Francisco Santana aiming to reinforce the image of Gran Canaria within the domestic market, which is a great source of tourists to the island.

The Gran Canaria flagship brand not only pushed sun, sea and sand as a primary product, but also the various shopping, dining, cultural, sporting and historical offerings of the island, for which Gran Canaria is seen as the leading destination in the archipelago.

The Gran Canaria exhibition stand was designed to represent some of the most typical elements of the island, led by classic images such as that of Roque Nublo and dunes of Maspalomas.

One of the highlights of the offering this year for the second time was a space specifically dedicated to the Maspalomas LGBT lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender offerings, collectively branded as “Gran Canaria Gay Friendly”.

Present too were leading mem-

The 60 square meter display, designed by Victor Montero with a budget of just 30,000€, represented photographs from the island ranging from flowers to various livestock and agricultural products, some of which were also made available on the stand to be tasted by travel industry professionals, exectuives and attendees.

Bravo de Laguna emphasised that Gran Canaria is promoted also under the umbrella brand for the Canary Islands. He acknowledged that there have been some issues regarding the treatment of Gran Canaria tourism promotion by the autonomous community as a whole, which he worked hard to ”rebalance”, while reiterating that the island does not want preferential treatment but to be fairly represented.

The Cabildo president reiterated that the island will continue promoting itself under the broader autonomous community and national tourism umbrellas of the “Canary Islands” and Turespaña, through the three major industry exhibitions in the world – Madrid, Berlin and London – and to the extent of the financial resources available Gran Canaria will be presented at tourism fairs of particular interest to its primary markets to really push the destination.

The Gran Canaria brand will also carry extra tourism promotion this year in countries that are represented in the basketball World Cup, which will be played this summer on the island, especially, throughout Europe, more about which will be announced on February 3.

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Image: Magnus Reed

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Sun exposure…

You need some! writes Lydia Hearst

Yes, it is important to be sure to “protect the skin you’re in,” but you must understand that the sun is not your enemy. Being over zealous with your lotions and sunscreen is not exactly healthy. Because people are so fearful of UV rays and sun exposure, there is a horrible epidemic of Vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D is different from other essential vitamins because our own bodies can manufacture it with sunlight exposure.

Supplements and milk are fine, but the natural way to get it is from the sun. If you are overprotective of sun exposure, coating yourself with lotions and sunscreen and cover-ups, you can be doing yourself more harm than good. Your skin is your largest organ. Let the sun shine on it occasionally; it’s good for you!

Everything in moderation! I hate to advise you to go out into the sun, but a little bit of sunshine is important and healthy for you. I am not suggesting you to lie out for an hour in the blazing sun – let’s be honest no one wants to look like a saddlebag. We all know the difference between frying ourselves and just feeling the warmth of the sun on our skin.

© Lydia Hearst plays the bongos and is a world famous actress, model and writer.

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News, Views & Sunshine

...Doctor Sunshine

drink, we will usually do a full body check which might reveal one [continued from front page] ...not so, says Dr Santana, who estimates a fairly or two skin cancers of which the even split with perhaps more tour- patient was completely unaware.” ists coming to see him than people Even slight suspicions of anything unusual should be followed up on. who live here. It’s all about sun.

GranCanariaMedical.com is a part “Your skin is the largest organ in of Gran Canaria Spa, Wellness & your body, it is really accessible, perhaps more than usual when you Health, a non-profit association founded in 2004. Its aim is to proare on holiday. You can see signs of even minor diseases on the skin, mote and consolidate the island as a destination for health and and this often prompts people well-being. Since 2008 a medical to go to the doctors when they notice an extra rash, because they offering has been added through are showing more of their body in three renowned health centres in order to get a tan, so notice more” the Canaries, aiming to place the island on the international medical Dr Néstor says that usually there is tourism route. little to worry about, but because people don’t really spend enough As world leaders in Climate Therapy, Gran Canaria and Hospital San time taking a proper look at their skin, when they notice something Roque played host last year to a convention for the Norwegian Psohe wholly encourages them to come and put their minds at ease. riatic Association, due to their success dealing with chronic sufferers “One common reason for an unu- of the condition, where sunshine sual skin rash is Mojito!” that tasty can have dramatic benefits... more rum based cocktail, so popular dur- about that in the next edition. ing summertime. “The interaction Dr Néstor says that if there are two between the lime used in Mojito, the beach and exposure to sun can key pieces of advice that he can cause a nasty rash in some people, offer everyone, it is to moisturise often and use sunscreen. “Moisture leading them to come and get it is the single best thing you can give checked out and though perhaps to your skin.” Whether you are a nothing can be done to change man or a woman is irrelevant, you their reaction to that particular

need to wake up to taking care of yourself and there is a big market for these creams, so the doctor recommends a mid-range priced cream that suits your skin type.

“Sunscreen will do a lot of work for you and help you to avoid developing cancers. You need to make it a ritual, moisturise your skin every two to three hours and before you go out apply sun screen. Daily.

Oct-Nov 2013

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This is the single most important advice I can give” Of course the best way to get all the right information is to go visit Dr Sunshine for a full body check, it’s usually covered by your health insurance and only takes a few minutes to do. It will make you feel better about your skin and your health and could save your life.

In the south of Gran Canaria, a closer great hospital Emergency Service 24H Hotel Medical Attention 24H Interpreter Service 24H

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Oct-Nov 2013

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It is Carnival time again, that

The Lupercalia festival was partly in honor of Lupa, the she-wolf who suckled the infant orphans, Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome. This festival was celebrated near the cave of Lupercal on the Palatine Hill (the central hill where Rome In Roman mythology, Lupercus is a was traditionally god sometimes identified with the founded), to expiate god Faunus, who is the Roman equiv- and purify new life in alent of the Greek god Pan. Lupercus the Springtime. was the god of shepherds. His festival, celebrated on the anniversary of The youth of Rome would the founding of his temple on Febru- draw lots and be paired ary 15, was called the Lupercalia. His off as sexual partners for priests wore goatskins. The historian the year to come, it was a tradition that caught Justin mentions an image of “the on and passed through Lycaean god, whom the Greeks call Pan and the Romans Lupercus,” nude the centuries and into many cultures right save for a girdle of goatskin, which up until the late middle stood in the Lupercal. ages, much to the displeasure of the orthodox church who tried desperately to make out that the celebration was more del 15 de febrero al 8 de marzo about “spiritual” love From 15th February to 8th March and monogamy than it was about rampant carnal desire. It seems they had a tough time convincing anyone. most ancient celebration of renewal and fertility that stretches so far back into antiquity. Did you know that Valentines day was thought to have been created by the church so as to dampen the spring time spirits of Romans celebrating the festival of Lupercalia with seasonal debauchery?

Whatever your thoughts on the matter Spring is certainly here, as the mountain awash with blossom will atest, and two months of Carnival celebrations approach to test your stamina and encourage renewal of all that is most beautiful about this island at this time of year. Go and enjoy!

Wine & Sex is one of the more delightfully innovative ideas we have come across

in The Canary Islands. The Bodega Monje in El Sauzal, on Tenerife, offers an experience like few others to be found in the world, mixing the erotic with the humorous, the sensual and the exciting within a decadent world of wine, food and sex, using performance to weave a delicate thread throughout a night of exploration and tittilation designed to appeal to one of your most erotic organs: your brain.

Having coupled various ‘complimentary’ products together so as to offer fun filled boxed sets containing their trademark wines and other items of a more risque turn, they aim to leave your propspective lover in little doubt of your intentions.

By the time you read this you will have already missed the winter event, held at the end of January at the Bodegas Monje, themed around the concept of “early erotic film“ and exploring the effects of that most ancient pairing, Wine & Sex. Lead by the “father of the bodega” Felipe Monje, these events take place four times a year coinciding with changes of the season.

“Wine and sex have always gone together,” they tell us “ever since this wonderful beverage was discovered. Drinking wine involves a sensitive erotic element and wine&sex extols this particular alliance in an encounter reigned over by the pleasures of wine, good food, fun and fascination, with a widely differing, educated and sensitive audience as the true stars of the night.”

The house chef, Hidalgo Ardenio, creates an aphrodisiac menu that includes specialties of the winery such as black pig roasted in a wood oven, together with crema de beterrada, chanterelles and peas and to finish a creation from the renowned pastry dessert chef Pedro Rodríguez Dios : Chocolate sólido y Manises.

They promise to lead you on a sensual journey like no other with artistic director Antonio Cifo providing challenges and surprises, where the public are involved alongside various performances both comedic and erotic.

bodegasmonje.com

€ 65.00

The next Wine & Sex night is set for the end of April as Spring turns to summer, we will bring you more about it in good time.

Meanwhile you might consider getting warmed up with one of their gift sets or a visit to their website via the facebook page

FB.com/wineandsex

Gary’s special 2 for 1 offer only available with this advertisment

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A Valentines Proposal 10 Ways to Propose on Valentine’s day in Gran Canaria Valentine’s day is just around the corner so if you’re looking for the perfect way to propose to the one you love, then now’s your moment?

Gran Canaria has some of the most enviable locations to make your proposal an unforgettable moment for you and your future fiancé.

Here are just a few ideas from our experience and expertise that will ensure you get a YES!: 1. Choose a romantic Balinese haven for two at Maroa Club de Mar situated on Anfi heart shaped island. Be served canapés and champagne by your personal waiter, beneath the stars.

2. Set sail on a private yacht and propose while sipping champagne as the sunsets over the horizon.

3. On a budget or just want something simple and very effective?

Head on down to one of Gran Canarias beautiful beaches night or day with a bottle of champagne and 2 glasses. Why not get a friend to prepare the area with a beautiful blanket covered in petals and surrounded by candles?

4. Into extreme sports? Why not propose on a parasail for 2 or release a “Will you marry me?” banner while scuba diving?

5. Hire the daily advertising plane to fly a banner saying “Will you marry me? (along with your partners name)” 6. Build a sand castle in a safe area away from the sea and place the ring on the top turret and ask your partner to come and inspect your creation.

7. Gran Canaria is full or amazing restaurants in beautiful settings by the sea or in picturesque settings. Get the chef at your chosen restaurant to write “Will you marry me” in chocolate sauce around the plate of your partners’ dessert.

8. Hire a beautiful hotel room or suite and make a trail of candles or petals from the door leading to a circle with the ring in the centre. Don’t forget to having the champagne on ice waiting.

9. Head up to Pico de las Nieves, Gran Canarias highest point in the picturesque mountains and propose as the sunsets over Mount Teide.

10. Use one of Gran Canarias local excursions or attractions to help you out. Have them either borrow you a microphone at a chosen part of their show or present a “Will your marry me? (along with the name of your partner)” banner or sign on one of their attractions I hope this has spurred you on to propose to that special person in your life and if so, I’d love you to tell me of your story.

GOOD LUCK!!!!

Email: info@perfectweddingcompany.com or Tel Nº: (0034) 653642208.

Bernadette Garside Founder and Director of The Perfect Wedding Company.

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

Cooperative advertising and events Phil Brocklehurst means business.

Over the last 20 years or more he has run several ventures, and in that time built strategies and relationships that have taught him essential skills in turning a profit and getting the best value for his marketing money. He doesn’t like to overpay.

He believes in straight talking, working hard and in recognising the needs of those around him in order to get the best out of any given situation.

Though he has been involved in the island for several years, it is in the last 18 months or so that he has been fully focused on Gran Canaria, and in particular his 3 businesses based around the Yumbo centre in Playa del Ingles. He means to be an agent of positive change.

In relation to his latest enterprise he says that despite the Yumbo Centro Comercial being one of the most successful business and leisure areas on the south of Gran Canaria, the world economic downturn coupled with some bad publicity generated by the collapse of a few rogue travel agencies, has led to some leading publications, particularly dealing with gay tourism, to “have dropped articles and advertising relating to the island...over the past 2 years businesses have seen their takings drop. Some by as much as 35%.”

Realising that such a big drop in turnovers may have left many in a state of disarray, Mr Brocklehurst has hit upon a novel idea. His company Igon Canaries has formed a media division, to be run as a nonprofit making cooperative, which negotiates advertising deals for several businesses together, as a group, giving them much greater impact and more focused results than could be achieved by any one of them acting alone. His belief is that over time he can stimulate the market.

As a result they have managed to coordinate several feature articles and full page advertisments in well known UK publications “with the backing of the Ayuntamiento, the Patranato and the Cabildo” along with community organsiations like GLAY and Yumbocentrum.com and several local businesses who can see the advantages of working together to remind potential visitors that we all still have a lot to offer.

Their aim is to encourage more people to consider visiting Gran Canaria from the perspective of the local diversity on offer and then once here, direct them to local publications when deciding what to do and where to go. Consolidating their successes and focusing visitors.

‘IGON Canaries’ hope to re-channel tourists back to local business on Gran Canaria, and gather newcomers while their at it. With other newspaper and magazine possibilities available, they have something to suit the wide variety of businesses that the LGBT Community run.

“Together,” he says “the costs are very pleasing for the businesses!”

Find out more, contact Phil on 671 281 758 (Info@igoncanaries.com)

Find us in the centre pages maps Check just some of our Sample deals on pages 33 & 34 and get saving TOADY!

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Spanish deadline for registering an intention to vote in the European Parliamentary elections is Thursday 30th January. If you are a British resident in Spain you can have your say, provided you take action by the deadline.

ASSSA

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ceived a communiqué from the Electoral Registry Office (Oficina del Censo Electoral) in November 2013, the only requirement is to fill in and sign the formal statement included in the communiqué and then send it to the relevant Regional Delegation of the Electoral Registry Office. In the event the Electoral Registry The Spanish government has Office should also have the perprovided the following informason’s Foreigner Identification Card tion (translated by the British Number (NIE), then that person Embassy) that residents may find may also go online to express the useful: intention to vote, through the link “Applications to express an inten- https://sede.ine.gob.es tion to vote may be carried out in - In the case of EU nationals living several ways: in Spain but not registered with the local town hall, it is necessary - In the case of citizens who re-

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for them to register with their local town hall (padrón municipal) and fill in the relevant form expressing their intention to vote in Spain “Further information is available at local town halls and regional delegations of the Electoral Registry Office. Enquiries can also be made by calling 901 101 900 or via the website www.ine.es.

“Residents who have previously expressed their wish to vote in Spain for the European Parliament elections are already included in the electoral roll. Therefore, they do not need to make any further arrangements or paperwork.”

House Prices fall, but sales are up It appears a shake-up in the Canarian property market has been occurring of late, with more and more properties starting to change hands over the last year, and prices having fallen on the islands, it is looking more and more like 2014 will be a buyers market here in Europe’s unrivaled sunshine capital.

Gran Canaria, in particular, looks set to benefit, particularly in the south where some prices have actually risen, with sales increasing as more and more buyers look to take advantage of the battering ASSSA is an established spanish the markets have received in recent years. This is great news for company since 1935, specialanyone looking to move here, though of course not so good for anyone who bought at the top of the ized on private Healthcare with market and is now looking to sell, they’ll likely need to wait a few more years yet to make a profit. But headquarter in Alicante. for first time buyers, and those who’ve been waiting for things to pick up so as to shift their properties this year is looking to be a good one.

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If reports out this week are to be believed, the average price of resale property in The Canary Islands dropped 10.6% through 2013, placing the average value now at €1,388 per square meter, that’s according to a report entitled ‘Housing in 2013′, prepared and published by the Spanish property web portal fotocasa, and reported on widely in the Spanish press.

This suggests that the value of property in the Canary Islands is 19.8% below the Spanish national average which in the month of December stood at €1,730 per square meter.

By province, both Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife have seen similar decline in the value of the housing over the last year.

As for the sharpest falls in the various municipalities of the archipelago the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife suffered most in San Cristobal de la Laguna (-13.6%), followed by the capital of Tenerife (-11%) and then on Fuerteventura, Puerto del Rosario (-10.8%)

ASSSA offer discounts up to However, according to the Spanish website, gains were recorded both in the municipalities of Arrecife 30% for the entire contract life- (+5.2%), on the island of Lanzarote, and in San Bartolomé de Tirajana (+3.9%), on the south of Gran time; 50% discount for children Canaria over the course of 2013. under 16 insured with parents and dental insurance reduced by up to 20%.

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UK HOUSE PRICES UP, INFLATION DOWN 2014 has started with good news for the UK, inflation dropped, retail sales jumped and house prices did quite well.

Looking a little deeper we saw inflation down to 2% from 2.1% in November and it was the first time since November 2009 that the level hit the Bank of England target although the squeeze on peoples incomes is still in place but reviewing the sales figures for December you would not believe income is tight. Yes retail sales were in boom time and year on year saw a 5.3% increase, some would say retailers heavily discounted items none the less people did spend. December’s increase stood at 2.6% from Novembers figures and the likes of John Lewis and House of Fraser did particularly well with higher increases. For all those concerned even on line shopping created its own boom with sales increasing by around 11.8%.

According to the ONS house prices also rose by around 5.4% which is well ahead of income growth so the key thing now is to increase average earnings without creating damage elsewhere.

In the euro zone and close to home we heard that Spanish banks are saying that households and small businesses are struggling to pay their debts and they have seen bad debts increase to around 13.08%, up from the previous month. A difficult one for banks to manage at the moment as they themselves face to improve their own capital ahead of the stress tests that are due. Equally of concern to the zone are suggestions that German GDP for the last quarter of 2013is below expectation.

On a brighter note Irish bond yields fell after Moodys removed the “junk” status stigma and Italian bond yields still remain relatively low and stable. In Portugal in preparation for their exit from the 78billion euro bailout programme Standard and Poor removed the country from its credit watch list.

Stateside news has been a little more negative of late as housing starts fell by 9.8% in December and that is the largest drop since the early part of 2013. Manufacturing whilst growing by around .4% was expected to see a higher growth and surprised as many were expecting to see an improved figure over November. Consumer confidence also took a dip as worries about unemployment and income growth still prevails. I expect to see the dollar however recovering some ground during 2014.

If you want to find out more contact our preferred currency provider Moneycorp on 0034 952 587 657 and mention The Canary News, Views & Sunshine.

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Oil Money Without Drilling

Frankly, before Odd Are Tveit, CEO of Otech, spoke, most of the mainly ex-pat filled audience had this same singular opinion, i.e. ´Oil will be bad for Canarios´.

Just like the vast majority of the Canary Island people, they had no idea that there could be a whole other side to the oil industry presence in the Canaries that could mean huge local economic benefits but without all the controversy that comes with actual drilling not far from our coastlines.

by Todd Michael Heater ernments and global organisations are requiring higher and higher standards in maintenance of these colossal machines which means money for the ports that can service them.

These repair & maintenance operations mean really money, big money, money for the local economy. Odd outlined an example of an typical service scenario: A RIG and it’s 80+ workers stay at the GC port for over a month perhaps up to three months, generating an average spend at the port in the neighbourhood of 10 million euros for docking, repair, and related expenses. However, these expenses don’t even include what the workers will spend in accommodations, dining and other layover activities like bring their families over for sunny vacations. Now multiply that scenario by 8 to 10 RIG service stops per year! This is one way to take advantage of oil money even without the controversy of drilling, and it’s already began.

That is, perhaps, just the tip of the iceberg. Because once the Las Palmas port has a thriving RIG servicing infrastructure, and couple that with the fact that exploration for oil is ever increasing up and down the coast of Odd explained to a small crowd Africa while at the same time of spectators that rig repair, African governments are continumaintenance and related services ally destabilising, oil companies could be the future solution to will recognise that the city of Las the Canaries’ unemployment Palmas and its port as a geo-politand economic woes. He started ically stable and convenient hub his argument with a rectangular to set up their daily operations. world map where not surprisingly Think of Kinross Gold Corp. but a you saw that the Canary Islands hundred times over. are strategically located dead It’s not a question of drilling or centre. He pointed out that rigs not drilling, it’s a question of beare constantly moving from one ing prepared for the future. The part of the world to another and conclusion that the conference that dozens perhaps even hunattendees walked away with is dred or more a year pass by our that perhaps there is an oil boom centrally located islands on their coming to Gran Canaria, but it’s way to drilling or repair locations. not at all like what’s currently And because of the hazardous being pitched in the local media natural of their operation, govor on the street.

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Typical when you mention “Petrulio” as an economic benefit to the Canaries in the presence of Canarians you get a sceptical reaction at best. At worst, you get a heated singular opinion about how big oil and government officials are perhaps going to make money BUT all at the risk of destroying our beautiful beaches and tourism livelihood.

Of course, they are referring to the extraction of oil somewhere off the coast of our spectacular archipelago. Which strangely wasn’t the main subject of the forum on The Future of the Oil Industry in Gran Canaria, which was held the other day at the annual Gran Canaria Business Week Conference.

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The Canary News, Views & Sunshine has well over 200 established & targeted distribution points in supermarkets, bars, cafes, hotels and tourist information points up and down the island giving us the widest free distribution of any publication on Gran Canaria. We reach 30,000+ online monthly With 75% of the distribution focused on the south of the island we are read by more English speaking tourists and residents than any other publication here, reaching well over 20,000 print readers every month from Puerto de Mogán to Puerto Rico, Arguineguín, Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés and all the way up to Las Palmas. More than 1/4 million impressions a year!

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The Canary Guide to... with

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Most toursits are left to trust their holiday reps, who themselves might only visit the island for one season, but when it comes to getting real insight on where to go and what there is to see, or which are the best businesses in a town, or the happy little secrets that only the islanders know, you have to make friends with a local...

Gran Canaria

Going Local in Gran Canaria Journalist/writer and former deputy editor of the Official Chelsea Magazine, Matthew Hirtes, has covered the Canary Islands and beyond for the likes of The Independent and Spain-Holiday.com. After co-authoring JPM Guides “This Way Gran Canaria”, he penned “Going Local in Gran Canaria: How to Turn a Holiday Destination into a Home” as a retort to those who lazily consider the island as the preserve of the bucket-and-spade brigade.

A unique guide, available on Amazon and in selected bookstores or directly from GranCanariaLocal.com

Tejeda

Spring is already underway on Gran Canaria and almond blossom is dramatically exploding in pink, white and blue all across the top of the island.

This visaual feast is celebrated every year through traditional fiestas..the first of which will be in the mountain village of Tejeda from February 2nd. Well worth a visit

by Matthew Hirtes

My wife surprised me with a lovely birthday treat a few years back with a stay at the then-recently reopened Parador in Cruz de Tejeda, one of a chain of state-run hotels with an excellent reputation. Recovering from a serious football-induced ankle injury, I was looking forward to rehabilitating in their spa - except it was closed because the water was considered to be too cold. My protestations that being English I didn’t care fell on deaf ears and I had to make do with sunning sessions on the surprisingly tropical terrace – it was April at the time.

I’ve been back to Tejeda since. It’s a fantastic hiking area and my recovered ankle stood up to some serious pounding as I followed trails like the kid who used to spend his Christmas holidays exploring the part of Epping Forest which bordered his grandparents’ house.

Beginners can try their luck with a leisurely downwards sashay to Teror. A 44km drive from Las Palmas along a spiral of a road, the Carretara del Centro, Tejeda the town is further inland than Santa Brigida and Vega de San Mateo. The adjoining Cruz de Tejeda, a sizeable and solemn crucifix carved out of moregrey-than-green stone marks the once-imagined-tobe centre of the island. The scenery of this region is certainly dramatic with poet Miguel de Unamuno moved to describe the 18km-wide crater of Caldera de Tejeda as “a tremendous upset of the innards of the earth.”

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Maspalomas PRIDE

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

kind in Europe, and certainly one that gains in popularity year-on-year.

GLAY’s main aims are to work towards the elimination of discrimination against hail from all four corners of the planet and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered Carnival season is now here at least until the end of March and celebrates the many who for one reason or another chose Gran people and to provide objective information centuries old tradition and unique culture of Canaria to be their home. to the general public, about homosexuality, this sub-tropical paradise as the island relesbianism, transsexuality and transgenderMany say that instead of choosing Gran turns to springtime and heralds the coming Canaria, that in fact Gran Canaria chooses ism. They aim to provide help & support to of summer, when PRIDE the annual Mayanyone in the community who needs it, but you. time answer to Carnival, celebrates LGBT particularly those who are having trouble culture and the modern diversity embodied This unique group of foreign residents and coming to terms with their sexuality and isleños, voluntarily working together and

by Gran Canaria, Europe’s favourite Sunwho need somewhere to go for information supported by island businesses and institu- and advice. This is vital, as despite the inforshine Island Destination. tions with the backing of local, regional and mal network within the community there is Maspalomas PRIDE, now in its 13th year, national government, are responsible for very little of this sort on offer to those who is an extraordinary event encompassing one of the most might easily feel alienated either through more than a full week of glittering high profile persistent cultural attitudes or a language shows and parties, run by volevents barrier, who can simply be helped through unteers, local businesses, of its a little understanding and good community native Canarians and information. individuals bound together through To do this, as a voluntary organisation, they an association need to raise money and Gay PRIDE, or called GLAY, Maspalomas PRIDE as it is now called, steered and is their best-known event and is recrun by their ognised by both local and regional myriad and government as one of the island’s diverse single biggest annual tourist atmembership, tractions.

The Preppers Maspalomas PRIDE has, over recent years, vibrantly matured into a major event, requiring more rigorous planning and expertise than ever before. The support and skills of the residents of Gran Canaria, both foreign and native, is more necessary now than it has ever been, if businesses are to shake off the remnants of the economic downturn and work together to make Gran Canaria an ever-better place to visit, live and work.

The GLAY management committee, under the Presidency of Ladina Heinrich, their first lady president, was elected last year having stood on the grounds of Honesty and Openness. She, and the hard working committee she represents, hold as their number one priority the fulfilment of this promise, to represent their community and the association that elected them with absolute integrity of purpose.

This year the GLAY team organising Maspalomas PRIDE not only boast several multilingual committee members, but also an ex-police officer with many year’s op-

The English Newspaper for Gran Canaria

With the help of media organisations like ourselves, publishers and regular newsletters to their members, they have worked tirelessly to continually improve their communications network so that as many people as possible can understand what they are doing, and why.

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of euros being invested for the continued development of this 21st century destination, recognition of the need to continually nurture home-grown activities and events of this kind may seem obvious. Yet if it is to maintain its momentum, and continue to improve its offering in the face of growing popularity, it will require the continued good will of politicians and the financial support of global players with the vision to truly realise the extraordinary opportunities that Maspalomas PRIDE represents.

This is the sunniest PRIDE in Europe and 1st on the global calendar. Its growing importance as a quality LGBT event at the start of summertime is gaining in world renown.

Many readers, visitors and residents may not be aware that the Town Hall, or Ayuntamiento, have been involved with GLAY from its very beginnings back in 2002; in fact they have held a seat on the committee until only a few years ago, represented by the late Dario Jaen who was instrumental in setting up the event, bringing political and business personalities together to help celebrate Gran Canaria’s openness and diversity.

Philanthropy and community, without strucIt is the combined vision of successive mu- tured commercial support, may not be sufnicipal authorities, supported by regional ficient, but then this is one event that has government, working with community repre- managed to grow thus far simply by cultivatsentatives like GLAY that is the real success ing local talents from within the community on the south of the island, so who’s to say story that the event represents. that this organically grown success story In 2014, with Canarian tourism continuing to hasn’t got the brightest future? It’s growing. break all records, even in Spain, and millions

There are a huge array of local fiestas and festivals to be tried and experienced throughout the year, but regardless of your politics, beliefs, orientation or thoughts on the matter, anyone who knows anything about life on this island knows that, for foreign visitors and residents alike, there are really only a couple of focal events in the annual calendar for the south of Gran Canaria. erational planning experience in large scale events and community liaison, a business manager trained in matters of tax, finance and sponsorship, a property entrepreneur, a highly skilled fixer and facilitator with many years experience on the event and several others with organisational, production, administrative and business experience.

Combined as a team, they have been doing a magnificent job, if somewhat behind the scenes, in building the bridges and relationships with local authorities so necessary to ensuring that everything is done correctly and to the highest standards of safety.

In particular they have managed this process despite all the new health & safety regulations, more than ever before, which have been rigorously enforced following the awful incident at the Madrid Stadium back in 2012.

Despite the increased security measures and extra bureaucracy that this can create the association and their team have been singular in upholding their responsibility in representing the LGBT and foreign resident communities on the south of Gran Canaria with the utmost integrity and effectiveness.

The legal requirements brought into force mean that it is no longer, as perhaps it once was, just a proverbial “nod and a wink” that allows events to be staged in Gran Canaria, but full and detailed health and safety, and policing reviews need to be undertaken before permissions can be given for any event

of this scale to take place. The cost of these reports can run into thousands of euros, however GLAY’s new level of involvement with the local authorities and other official bodies will ensure Maspalomas Pride 2014 can not only move ahead confidently, but can be set up for increasing success both this year and in future years.

A detailed schedule of events for Maspalomas Pride has been on the table for some time and GLAY now just await final approval from the municipal authorities before being able to release these details publicly.

Some weeks there can be as many as 4 or 5 meetings that the management committee need to attend in connection with GLAY and with Maspalomas Pride, this they manage to do on a voluntary basis at the same time as working, or running other businesses, and while attempting to maintain a reasonably normal home life!

News, Views & Sunshine

Oct-Nov 2013

17

Ladina

Heatherson-Heinrich - 34 Swiss national, living in Gran Canaria.

Speaks 7 languages.

Educated in Switzerland & completed Commercial Apprenticeship in 1999.

Studied English in Ireland before taking up a position with Credit Suisse.

A mother of one, she decided to move to the island, where the family holidayed twice a year, after her father passed away.

With partner, Jimmy, ran a bar in the Maspalomas Yumbo called G.Shock and says “thanks to Gay Pride, we survived.”

They now run a German Bar where they also sing and entertain as well as regularly at various other venues.

Ladina is signed to a German record company and released 2 singles in 2010.

Elected to represent G:L:A:Y in 2013 saying she wanted to help it back to it’s roots and get members more involved with a voice in the running of the committee, with a view to making the Association more transparent to all.

She is GLAY’s first Lady President.

counts for GLAY’s charitable work and their fundraising events like Maspalomas PRIDE. Transparency and accountability are the keys to success.

This is something they are only able to achieve with the support and backing of the foreign resident population, native Canarians, local businesses, the municipal council of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, the Patranato de Turismo, the Cabildo de Gran Canaria and of course the up to 100,000 visitors that their work attracts to the island in the month of May alone.

Their Core Aims sub-committee is compiling a 4 year plan which they hope will eventually, with the help of the GLAY membership and sponsors, offer ever-greater support through providing a drop in centre, not only for those who are “out” and having problems dealing with matters in their own lives, but also for the youth of the island of Gran GLAY are a voluntary organisation represent- Canaria who at this time have few if any ing an association of people and businesses points of contact where they can chat about these subjects or ask for information and interested in the well-being of their comadvice. munity on Gran Canaria, and in providing a support network for each other and those Achieving GLAY´s core aims has often been most in need of their help, particularly on hampered or obscured by the business of the subject of sexual orientation, integration putting on a successful event, but in time and well-being. They in turn are represented they hope to change all that - with your help by an elected committee of volunteers. & support and ever greater infrastructure.

They do this while putting in place adequate One thing is clear they are a shining example checks and balances to ensure that all funds of community cooperation. are correctly dealt with, using separate ac .:. Timon

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The Best Kept Secret in Paradise:

Arguineguín

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Cárdenas Real Estate 3 Locations in Gran Canaria

(34) 928 150 650

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www.cardenas-grancanaria.com

CS Computer Services Computer, internet & IPTV Provider

828 244 377

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TARA Animal Charity Shops Second Hand Goods – Animal Welfare

(34) 928 062 891 TARA-Animales.org

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Facebook/TARAgrancanaria

SydenEiendom Licensed Real Estate Agent

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928 736 537

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Tejeda

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Sept-Oct 2013

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Beaches With the abundant flora on show, you’re more likely to see beeches than beaches in Tejeda.

Food The fruits of the region’s ubiquitous almond trees turn up in locally-made sweets including bienmesabe and marzipan. Those with more of a savoury tooth are directed to sample the Tejeda speciality of potaje de jaramago (rocket stew). A childhood haunt of my wife, Asador Grill de Yolanda (Cruz de Tejeda S/N; 928 66 62 76; www. asadoryolanda.com), whose tables spill out onto the pavement, specializes in meat and a few veg. The owner must have be delighted when my wife and family pitched up, seeing as they numbered into double figures. The similarly omnivore-friendly Restaurante Grill La Cumbre (Lugar Llano de la Pez S/N; 928 17 00 69,) is the place to go for good food simply done.

Images: CC 2.0 by-sa El coleccionista de instantes

Accommodation Alfonso XIII set up the Paradores de Turismo de España back in 1928, to promote Spanish tourism. Usually located in historic buildings such as castles and palaces, they’ve become a benchmark in luxury hotels. The Parador de Cruz de Tejeda (Cruz de Tejeda S/N; 928 01 25 00; www.parador.es/en/parador-de-cruz-de-tejeda) more than matches those high standards. In Tejeda Central, the three-star Hotel Rural Fonda de la Tea (Calle Ezequiel Sánchez 22; 928 66 64 22; www.hotelfondadelatea.com) reopened in 2007 after being closed for nigh on 50 years.

Whilst its stone exterior and wooden balconies link to its past, 21st century comforts are provided by way of its flat-screen TVs and Internet connections.

Nightlife The only ambient music you’ll hear in Tejeda will be on the speakers of the Café Lounge at Let Me Take U (629 19 86 85; www.letmetakeu.com) For an even later night, the owners organize guided tours of Las Palmas with pick-up from your hotel included. Bear in mind, though, that the venues you’ll likely to be taken to are gay-friendly ones. Fiestas As deeply religious as their counterparts in other Gran Canaria municipalities, the Fiestas de la Virgen del Socorro, which begin in the second week of September, see locals bring offerings to the patron saint at Tejeda’s parish church. Rather more secular are the Fiestas del Almendro en Flor held during the first two weeks of February. These date back as recently as 1970 but nevertheless celebrate the history of the area, namely its almond trees.

Attractions The Museo de Abraham Cárdenes (Calle Leocadio Cabrera S/N; 928 66 61 89) is a Tejeda museum which showcases the work of this local sculptor. Non-sculpted forms to look out for are the postcard-profilic Roque Nublo alongside the no-less-spectacular Roque Bentayga. Rock on, indeed. Phone in advance for a guided tour of the stunningly-set Bodegas Bentayga (Calle El Alberconcillo S/N; 928 42 60 47; www.bodegasbentayga.com). I’ve visisted Lanzarote’s amazing La Geria wine region and for sheer suspension of belief, the 12 hectares of BB more than matches those volcanic vineyards.

Matthew Hites

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The rustic heart of Rural Gran Canaria

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Pride Maspalomas

The event was held for the first time in 2002 and has grown every year since than. Thousands of national and international visitors are coming especially for this event to the island of Gran Canaria in May. This gives an extra impulse to the local economy generating millions of Euros of turnover to hotels, restaurants, shops, bars, taxi’s and surrounding businesses.

The Organisation

The event is organised by GLAY, a nonprofit organisation with the objective of fighting discrimination, organise cultural events, to create support for the gay community, promote safe sex and improve social contacts between young (gay) people. Maspalomas Pride is one of the activities of GLAY which consist of elected members all having professional experience in different areas such as finance, management, marketing and entertainment.

Sponsor PRIDE 928 987 952

The Partners

Maspalomas Pride and GLAY are politically and financially supported by local and regional governments such as the town hall, tourist board and the Canarian Government. Premium sponsors of previous PRIDE events have included global brand names like Heineken, Coca-Cola, Lopesan, Red Bull, Burger King and many local business’ who contribute towards the costs of staging PRIDE and the many activities and events that surround it.

The Market Audience

This Months Specials 1000 A6 Full Colour Flyers 110 Gram Paper

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Designs not included

Open Monday till Friday 1pm Till 6pm

The event is attended by at least 70.000 international, 15.000 national and 20.000 local/regional visitors.

The visitor profile is: Aged between 30 & 50, modern, ABC1&2 professionals, DINKs, more men than women.

The largest visiting group are the British followed by German, Dutch, French, Italian, Scandinavian and Spanish nationalities.

Gran Canaria receives a total of 350,000 international gay visitors per year spending a total of over €500million.

The average spend is €130 per day per gay person, compared to the €80 per day per person spent by hetero visitors.

Gran Canaria is Europe’s number 1 gay destination. The 38 “gay friendly” complex’s enjoy more than a 90% occupation during PRIDE compared to 50% in the remaining resort complexes.

The Opportunity

Gay Pride Maspalomas is a unique chance to show the world that your company supports diversity and community. The event is visited by people from all European countries and gives your company the potential to promote your product or service throughout Europe at one single location known for year-round sunshine and that holiday feeling. This is a unique opportunity.

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News, Views & Sunshine Oct-Nov 2013 Pride Maspalomas can offer you the following support:

Title Sponsorship – naming rights to a certain night or event Exclusivity – guarantee to be sole sponsor in your sector Brand Exposure – presence on all event literature, website etc.

Branding – banners, displays, promotion kiosk and team etc.

Media Exposure – host a press launch, mention in press release etc.

Long-term relationship – we value commitment to multiple events Hospitality – exclusive sponsor party We are happy to discuss with you the ways your company can get the highest benefits from this unparalleled event.

The Programme

Gay Pride Maspalomas is well known for its exciting 1-week programme.

The Yumbo Commercial Center, with its huge square, is the location of the main stage where a number of evening shows are held. There are also day events. A summary of the programme for the 2014 Gay Pride Maspalomas Edition can be found on the website.

Event Marketing

Gay Pride Maspalomas is heavily promoted. The event publicity, with all major sponsor logos, is distributed all over Europe is different ways: Tourism Board promotes the event during European Tourism Fairs Most major gay websites, magazines and newspaper publish articles about the event The official website receives a yearly average of 300 unique visitors per day and 800 per day during the 2 months before the event starts.

The Facebook page is well visited and has almost 10,000 fans and growing.

“Straight” traditional media pay a lot of attention to the event with articles and reports.

A total of 50.000 flyers, 3.000 posters and 25.000 programmes are printed.

Website banners are placed on over 200 gay travel sites, portals, gay news and other.

Usage

GLAY is a charity and every raised Euro will be spent on the event. The largest costs are stage, sound and light, artists, accommodation, flights, insurance, marketing, dancers and catering. The GLAY committee members, most having their own business, are volunteers and are not being paid for their efforts.

Value

There are many ways for your company become an Official Sponsor and get benefit from the great opportunities. There is a list of options, with limited availability for each package to Entitlements guarantee maximum exposure. Please As an official Pride Maspalomas Spon- contact us for more detailed informasor you are entitled to certain benefits, tion or to discuss other options that fit better with your marketing strategy. depending on the agreement.

928 987 952

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ElElPeri贸dico Peri贸dicoIngl茅s Ingl茅sdedeGran GranCanaria Canaria

AB Card Subsidised with a 20% discount by the Gran Canaria Cabildo.

Roundtrip Card Discount: Variable Applies to: Set routes and special Global Plus Discount events. Timetables: As established ID Card for the occasion or event.

Wknd Beach Roundtrips south From LP & Telde Requirements:

Download Timetables For Any of These Bus Routes

AT THE GEXCO Cabildo Pass This pass entitles OFFICE (San Telmo you to travel on the GLOBAL section Bus Station) Fill in the of your choice for one calendar month with a discount of 30%, 40% application form and have your photo taken or 50% depending on how many on the spot. kilometres the journey is.

Gran Canaria Airport Buses

The local bus service in Gran Canaria, known local as the GuaGua, is quick and efficient, with accurate timetables on every bus stop along each of the many routes across the island. More information in several languages inc Englsih, German and Spanish can be found by checking their website on

www.GlobalSU.es

where there is a routefinder facility and from which you can download timetables for every route on the island.

Global also offer various walking routes and free guides for day trips you can take using their buses to get you various picturesque places on the island. All-in-all an inexpensive and fun way to see Gran Canaria off-the-beaten-track and away from the more usual tourist excursions.

If you have a smart phone you can use any of the QR codes on this page to find out more information:

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News, Views & Sunshine

Oct-Nov 2013

TARA Animal Respect Association:

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Rescuing, Reuniting, Rehabilitating, and Rehoming Pets and Strays in Gran Canaria , Facebook.com/TARAGranCanaria or Brian@TARA-Animales.org .

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Together We Can Make Gran Canaria A Paradise For Animals Too!

CHANCE This playful 8 month old black lab mix is desperate for a home to call his own. He will not be over 25kG when fully grown.

Chance is good with other dogs, loves to play, enjoys human companionship and ball games. He is rough with cats, and needs training to teach him that they are not a toy, but he is not aggressive towards them. Chance is castrated, chipped, vaccinated and ready for his new home....can you offer him one?

CANELA is 18 months old, and is a happy, healthy podenco, who is good with other dogs, cats and humans. If you want to meet Canela, and feel that you can offer her the best forever home, please get in touch

LUCKY This special boy is about 18 months old, approx 10 kg and medium build. He is castrated, chipped and vaccinated. Lucky is a quiet boy that is good with other dogs and children He is very good on the lead, and is the perfect companion to have at home....if you want to meet Lucky please all RITA on 646399077

ROXY This timid female dog was found abandoned in vecindario, wandering the streets in search of food. She is approx 1 year old, and is in good health. Roxy is a medium sized dog, good with other bigger dogs, but shy around people.

She will need training, love and a routine to ensure that she flourishes into a beautiful adult dog.

BOSS Boss is searching for a new home as his owners are incredibly unwell. Although it breaks their hearts, they know Boss would be better in a new home. This adorable collie is approx 8 years old, is castrated and about 24KG. He is vaccinated, chipped and loved a huge amount by everyone. Boss is excellent with children, other dogs, and cats which makes him ideal for everyone.

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Oct-Nov 2013

News, Views & Sunshine

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

Life Ball was the first AIDS charity event worldwide to take place in a political building: The City Hall in Vienna, Austria.

Ever since 1993, Life Ball supports organizations and projects in the most affected regions around the world and contributes to remove the taboos of AIDS in our society. Life Ball sends out a strong statement in the fight against HIV and AIDS through celebrating life and the diversity of cultures – resounding far across the borders of Austria every year.

Life Ball is organized by AIDS LIFE, an independent non-profit organization established in 1992 by Gery Keszler and Torgom Petrosian, with the aim to raise funds for the support of people living with HIV and AIDS. The association is dedicated to promoting awareness and public consciousness about HIV and AIDS. The majority of the funds raised goes towards our international partner organizations such as amfAR – The Foundation for AIDS Research, the William J. Clinton Foundation, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the MTV – Staying Alive Foundation and UNAIDS – the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS. The next Life Ball will take place on May 31, 2014. www.lifeball.org www.facebook.com/LifeBall www.twitter.com/LifeBall www.youtube.com/user/lifeballvienna

GranCanaria.com has been a proud supporter and contributor

to Life Ball since 2011. Last year they ran a prize draw for an all expenses paid dream holiday for two to come to the island and experience the Las Palmas carnival. This year again there are plans to have a presence at this prestigeous event which does so much for charities all over the world dealing with treatment and the stigma attached to children and adults affected by the AIDS virus.

Life Ball is one of the most glamourous parties in the world, held in a major European city, famous for its glamorous events, raising millions every year for local organisations and charities around the world. It is a shining example of the huge amount of good that can be done through cooperation between charitable organisations, politicians, community groups, celebrities and the media.

Gran Canaria can learn a lot from supporting this glittering event.

Life Ball/Š Alexander C. Wulz

The English Newspaper for Gran Canaria Canaria News, Views & Sunshine

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News, Views & Sunshine

Oct-Nov 2013

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Oct-Nov 2013 Sept-Oct 2013

News, Views & Sunshine

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

Language - Spanish Lesson 83

THE HAVES AND THE HAVE-NOTS In Spanish we use the verb TENER, pronounce teh-NAIR, a lot. It means ‘to have’ and where we would be hungry, they ‘have hunger’. Just our luck it´s an irregular verb. Here are the endings: TENER: Present tense tengo - I have, e.g. no tengo coche; I don´t have a car (literally: I no have car) tenemos – we have, e.g. tenemos una piscina bonita; we have a pretty pool (lit. a pool pretty) tienes – you have, e.g. ¿tienes tiempo para hablar? Do you have time (for) to talk? tiene – he/she/it has, e.g. Mi piso tiene tres dormitorios; my house (it) has three bedrooms tienen – they have, e.g. Mis padres tienen un problema; my parents, (they) have a problem Common expressions I am hungry – tengo hambre (never to pronounce the letter ‘h’).

Not to be confused with tengo hombre (I have a man) I am thirsty – tengo sed (memory trigger: I SAID I´m thirsty) ¿Tienes sed? Are you thirsty?

I´m hot – tengo calor (literally: I have heat). Don´t say: ‘estoy caliente’ which means you´re feeling frisky!

I’m cold – tengo frio. Are you cold? ¿Tienes frio?

I´m lucky – tengo suerte (SWERteh: lit. I have luck) I´m afraid – tengo miedo (I have fear) I’m in a hurry – tengo prisa (I have haste) ¿tienes prisa? Are you in a hurry?

I´m sleepy – tengo sueño (SWENyo; I have sleepiness)

Theresa Coe

Free language exchange: Meet the locals!

I´m embarrassed – tengo verguenPlaya del Inglés: Sundays 6pm at za (I have shame) Amigos Coffee, Av de Italia 15 I’m right! – tengo razón (I have www.amigoscoffee.com reason) San Fernando: Tuesdays 7.30pm, Talking about age Il Piccolo Diavolo, C/Plácido DoIn Spanish, I´m not 42, I HAVE 42 mingo, 12 www.facebook.com/ (years): tengo 42 años. ¿Cuántos ilpiccolodiavolograncanaria años tienes? How old are you?

Arguineguin: Thursdays, 7pm in (Lit: how many years you have?)

Bar Forum, Av de Lajilla, 13. Faceor you might ask ¿Cuántos años book search: ‘language exchange tiene tu hijo/hija (EE-ho/EE-ha)?

Arguineguin’ How old is your son/daughter? To revise numbers, see lesson 21.

Las Palmas: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays 11am in I have to go! bar ‘100 Montaditos’, Centro CoAnother useful expression is mercial El Muelle - www.cerveceTENER QUE (to have to; lit. to have ria100montaditos.com Tuesdays that) e.g. tengo que salir – I have 6pm in Bar El Gallinero, C/Fernanto leave. Tienes que hacerlo – do Guanarteme 130, Thursdays you have to do it. If you find this 6pm in bar Canarios Expresso, tricky, avoid it by using NECESITAR Leon y Castillo 253 (to need), e.g. necesito terminar ahora – I need to stop now.

Arucas: Tuesdays 7.30pm at bar El Parque (behind the church in San The have-nots Juan square) Sometimes they don´t use ‘have’ Telde: Thursdays 7.30pm at Oasis when we do.

Chillout bar: www.oasischillout.

To have a party = to make a party: com hacer una fiesta Spanish conversation club with To have a drink = to take a drink: Cynthia Blickstein Griner every tomar una copa (usually alcoholic) second Saturday San Fernando or una bebida 6pm. For details: cynthiagriner@ yahoo.es I have eaten = (yo) he comido (NOT tengo comido). This is part English club Fridays 4-6pm Amigos of the ‘present perfect’ verb tense Coffee, Av de Italia 15, Playa del for life experience (e.g. I´ve been Ingles. to France) or recent actions, (e.g.

I´ve just eaten). When ‘have’ is a For more info or updates, email weak auxiliary verb, forming part theresacoe@gmail.com or see: of the past tense, you need HABER www.facebook.com/LEGintercambio not TENER. See lesson 36.

To request previous lessons by email or find out about the free language exchange, email... theresacoe@gmail.com

Want lessons?

Call 662 045 990

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A Canary Christmas

News, Views & Sunshine

Oct-Nov 2013

27

- Betty Burgess

From the beginning of winter up here in Las Palmas, as the days draw in – as much as they do here, where 6pm is the earliest it ever gets dark – we start to feel a bit of a nip in the air and the temperature clocks may show less than 20º in the evening. In the shops the goods are piling up, the locals dress in their winter gear with jerseys and jackets and scarves, more because it is autumn or winter than because it is cold, and then, one day, the lights go on in the streets and along the Avenida Marítima and suddenly you get that Christmassy feeling. And no, I won´t call it the Festive Season: you all know what I mean!

Those who are lucky enough to be working, and those on State pensions, get their double Christmas pay at the beginning of december… and we are off: let the spending begin!

came to the rescue and we set out for a ride in my brother-in-law’s smart new Hillman, destination Sardina del Norte. Nowadays, that In the Canaries, too, Christmas is a family event, with the main is no big deal: twenty-five minutes ride along the northern motormeal not on Christmas Day, but late on Christmas Eve, which is why you may find your favourite haunts close earlier, but that they way will get you there, but at that time the road wound round the hills, through Arucas, down to Bañaderos, before snaking along are open on the 25th. the very variable road past the Cenobio de Valerón, an ancient There are no hard and fast rules about the main course: it may be Guanche cave site, and dropping down into Guía and Galdar where meat, turkey or fish, but you are certain to find olives and nuts, the route turned one way for Agaete and the other for Sardina. those sweet and delicious nougat-type bars called “turrón”, big You can still see, and travel on, the old road. It is a very interesting powdery sweets called “polvorones” made with almonds, and a route, but with many bends, though now with little traffic. To finbottle or two of wine and the sparkling “cava” on the table. ish the tale, after a cooling swim in the crystal waters, Christmas lunch on a beautiful sunny day was spread out on the rocks by the I well remember my first Christmas in the Canary Islands, long, beach at Sardina: typical Canary picnic staples of delicious cold long ago. I had been on Gran Canaria since the beginning of Octo- tortilla, ensaladilla and cold fillets of fish washed down with local ber and married for little over a month and, apart from my in-laws, beer and followed by turrón and coffee. Heaven! And I hadn’t even I didn’t really know anybody. As a housewife, I was just beginning realised before that Christmas could be something other than to fit into a very unaccustomed role. When I discovered that my roast turkey and Christmas pud. husband, working in the tourist business, had to work on Christmas Day I felt very miserable but, in true Canarian style, my in-laws I always think of it as my induction into the Canary way of life.

Betrayed 28

Oct-Nov 2013

News, Views & Sunshine

by Jeannie van Rompaey

T he C anary N ews . com

- Part One ‘Better to tell you face to face,’ Barbara says.

She’s so kind.

Even though she has a husband, two sons, four grandchildren and works as a nurse at the Insular, she always finds time to visit me.

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

‘Once Father’s body had been removed, she sprang into action and called the vicar. He came on the trot. She’s making a list of music, hymns and readings for the funeral. I told her she doesn’t have to do that today, but there’s no stopping her.’

‘Best leave her to it,’ I find myself saying. ‘You know how she likes organising things. It’ll give her something to do, something to take her mind off.’

What I can do to take my mind off?

I pour the tea. We both take it the same. A little milk and not too strong.

I look at Barbara’s flushed face. ‘How about you, my dear, how are you bearing up?’

My daughter, Barbara. That’s how I think of her. I know well enough she’s not my daughter, but the little betrayal is only in my mind.

It doesn’t really count. The identity of her father is not in question.

‘Oh Ellen, you know how much I loved my father, but he’d got very frail the last few weeks, slept most of the time. I’ll miss him like crazy, but he was ready to go.’

It was to me she came the first time she found out that Javier had been unfaithful. I let her stay the night to give her a chance to think things through. She talked. I listened. It doesn’t do to give advice in these matters. Sympathy yes. Advice no. Jorge was still a baby.

We made him a bed in drawer. She went back to her husband the next day. Didn’t have much choice really, when it came to it.

Other times she’s come to me when in trouble as well, but I always remember that first time. That’s what has made us so close.

For a moment I wonder what she asked. Then it comes to me. She’s offering me a lift to see Gavin’s dead body.

And now here she is, thirty years on, upset again. Her lips are on the tremble, her eyes a little puffy. I sit her down at the kitchen table in my tiny flat in the centre of Las Palmas, the flat where I’ve lived since I first came to the island some fifty years ago. I make a pot of tea and sit opposite her. Give it time to draw before pouring.

Barbara runs her finger round the rim of the empty cup. Oh dear, I’ve given her a chipped saucer.

‘I’m afraid I have bad news, Ellen. It’s Father. He passed away, gently in his sleep. Just slipped away. A good way to go.’

Something twists into a knot in the pit of my stomach. A prick behind my eyes threatens tears.

Gavin gone.

My commonsense tells me that an ailing man in his late eighties cannot live forever. But it’s a shock all the same.

‘Mother said she couldn’t breathe with a dead body in the house. Started ranting and raving. I had no choice but to phone the undertakers straightaway. I must say they came pretty quickly. Father is already laid out in the Tanatorio.’

I stare at her, unable to take it all in. The words go round and round in my head.

Mother ranting and raving, couldn’t breathe, dead body, laid out, Tanatorio.

It’s all too much.

She reaches across the table and puts her hand on mine. ‘Would you like me to give you a lift to see him?’

Frail. Slept most of the time. Ready to go. Miss him like crazy.

Barbara sips her tea. She looks at me, waiting for an answer.

‘No thank you, dear. I may go later but I need a moment to….’

Miss him like crazy.

‘Of course.’ She squeezes my hand. ‘Well, if you’re sure you’re all right, I’ll be off. Got to get back to work.’

She stands up and I pull myself to my feet too. ‘You haven’t finished your tea.’

‘Sorry.’ She gives me a brief hug, a kiss on either cheek, Spanish style, and lets herself out.

Left alone, I try to drink my tea but can’t swallow. I empty the cups and teapot into in the sink. Maybe I should go to the funeral parlour. Something to do. I’m torn between the desire to remember Gavin as he was and the feeling that I must say goodbye in private to the man who played such a large part in my life. No, not “played.” That’s the wrong word. The man who was my life.

Continued next edition. Find more from the author on jeannievanrompaey.co.uk

The English Newspaper for Gran Canaria

ID CARDS FOR EXPATS Twitters from the Atlantic

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© Barrie Mahoney

Most expats living in Spain are anxious to do their best to fit into their local communities, as well as doing their best to abide by the law.

However, sometimes Spain does not make it easy for expats to abide by the law, and the issue that I raise here is a good example.

How many expats in Spain remember that rather useful identification card that was awarded to those expats who could meet the residency requirements a few years ago? This credit card size piece of identification not only carried the all important identification number and fingerprint, but a photo as well, which meant that it could be used for identification purposes in shops, banks, dealing with the authorities, as well as internal flights.

News, Views & Sunshine

Oct-Nov 2013

29

Barrie Mahoney was a teacher, head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands as a newspaper editor.

He enjoys life in the sun as a writer and author.

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander.com or read his latest book, ‘Escape to the Sun’ (ISBN: 9780957544444). Available as paperback, Kindle and iBooks. iPhone/iPad and Android Apps: ExpatInfo, CanaryIsle and CanaryGay now available.

version of the document was made available by the authorities in 2012, but was of little use since it still did not include a photo.

Many expats have tried to get around the issue by continuing to use a laminated version of their old ID card, which is against the law and can lead to a hefty fine. In my own case, I photocopied the A4 green sheet of paper, together with my passport, which I had validated by a notary, Sadly, someone complained bitterly that an ID card was an insult to as well as the police. Both have been rejected on a number of occathe status of being a European citizen, and it should not be necessary. sions, with the authorities insisting on seeing the original documents.

Sadly, he was taken seriously and the implications were insufficiently Most expats that I know now tend to use their UK driving licence, if considered. The fact that most European countries have their own sys- they still have one, in conjunction with A4 green sheet of paper, but tem of ID cards was overlooked, and so the decision in Madrid to can- there remains a strong likelihood of the document being rejected by cel ID cards for all expats was no big deal, because expats from other an over zealous ‘jobsworth’ without an accompanying passport.

European countries could manage quite well with the ones issued by It now seems that all is about to change with the reintroduction of the their own governments, although still lacking the Spanish ID number.

ID card for expats, sometime in 2014. This is an initiative that has been Not so in the UK. No doubt many will remember the furore that the spearheaded by a group in the Balearic Islands who made representapossible introduction of National Identity Cards in the UK caused. tions to the EU, as well as to Members of Parliament in Madrid. The There was a predictable response about human rights and personal matter is now in the hands of the Head of Police and the Secretary of freedom in the press, which meant that the UK government could not State who are studying the issue. It seems that something is moving, proceed with the planned introduction to bring the UK in line with the but as yet no there is formal confirmation or announcement. rest of Europe, and the project was scrapped.

For fear that this could be yet another case of ‘bar room gossip’, I To the irritation of many expats in Spain, who were now left without checked the information with the British Embassy in Madrid, who have any form of national identification, other than an A4 green sheet of issued the following statement, albeit in Diplomatic Non-Speak: paper issued by the Spanish authorities, this turnaround was noth“All EU citizens planning to reside in Spain for more than three months ing short of a disaster. The new form of identification did not contain should register in person at the Oficina de Extranjeros in their province a passport photo, which meant that a passport has, in theory, to be made available at all times, as it is the only valid and recognised form of residence or at designated Police stations. They will then be issued with a Residence Certificate stating their name, address, nationality, of identification that Brits have. Passports and UK driving licences do not carry the all important Spanish national identification number, and NIE number (Número de Identificación Extranjeros) and date of registration. so the A4 green paper has to be carried as well. The authorities are also quite strict in insisting that the original A4 green sheet of paper “We are aware of a campaign by some EU citizens resident in Spain to be used and that copies are not acceptable. You can imagine the state seek changes in the format of the Residence Certificate. Ultimately it of some of these flimsy and well-worn documents. A credit card sized is a matter for the Spanish authorities to decide.”

Although the timescale is uncertain, it does seem that something is happening at last, and it should become a little easier to abide by the law.

30

Oct-Nov 2013

News, Views & Sunshine

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Quinny's Quiz

1.What do scots call new year?

2. In prem footy club posh glass house fit for a queen?

3.In which cartoon did Penelope Pitstop and Mutley appear?

4.Brandon Flowers is lead singer with which band?

5. What is the Spanish word for goodbye?

6.Ian Rankins Rebus books are set in which city?

7.What is the maximum 3 dart score?

8. The 2 cheapest properties on the standard monopoly board game are what colour?

9.What type of dog was Lassie?

10. I which sport do the players hit a puck?

Lisa Richards is our winner from last edition and wins Drinks and a Mexican Platter at Mackers, Jardin del Sol in Playa del Inglés

Centro Veterinario Mogán Total Veterinarian Services C/ las Casillas 2 – 35140, Mogán Tel: 928 569 344 / 639 526 811 Send your answers to Quiz@TheCanaryNews.com Text 626 641 537 or give them to Quinny himself if you spot him round Puerto Rico for a chance to win a prize!

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Our lucky winner will be the first selected at random with all the questions correct, and gets a choice of either 100€ worth of advertising or a A Meal for 2 including a

Ans Green 5.Which is the most bought and played xmas song to date Ans White Xmas (bing Crosby) originally blue yellow green

bottle of wine at

THE LEMON TREE, Puerto Rico

Want to Sponsor a Prize? Let us Know. Quinny thanks you. Wy Aye Like!

Last Edition´s Answers:

1.Which country anualy donates trafalger squares xmas tree sweden,norway,denmark Ans Norway 2.How many reindeer pull santas slay 7,8,9 Ans 9 3.By Xmas eve how many advent calender windows are open Ans 24 4.Coca cola changed santas clothes to red what colour was it

6.what colour are the berries on a mistletoe plant Ans White 7.what are the 2 most popular items are used at the top of a xmas tree Ans Angel and Star 8.What is father christmas called in spain Ans Papa Noel 9.What was used for frosty the snowmans nose Ans Carrot 10.in the song 12 days of xmas what was given on day 4 Ans 4 calling birds

31

ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE

The English Newspaper for Gran Canaria

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News, Views & Sunshine

Oct-Nov 2013

with Kay Owen

Did you make any New Year resolutions? I just read in a January 1st 2014 publication of a well known magazine. “It is pointless making New Year resolutions as 37% of people break them in the first couple of weeks-so you may as well give up now.” How negative . They are not then working on the sentiments of the old ditty “Accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative, latch on to the affirmative...”

If this statistic be true, it must follow that it is not at all pointless for the remaining 63% who go on...at least past two weeks into their resolutions to succeed.

It really is about mind-set, a bit of will- power, and how we perceive ourselves, our worth and our world isn’t it? There is so much negative stuff bashing away at our lumps of grey matter already in this new year, but I for one am refusing to allow a magazine article to dictate my failure in advance - just another lost cause to add to what it perceives as the ‘already losers’ of 2014. No! I fully intend to be among the 63% thank you. And despite tradition I may not need the 1st January to nudge me either. We can all make on-going -any-time resolutions as we see fit.

Well, that’s my bit of New Year whingeing over, and if I make no other promise than this I will be happy ; ‘to have a positive outlook on life in the year ahead and whenever it is possible to influence things for the better, wherever the road leads me...asap”. In fact I have just ordered a tee shirt to remind me of that; it says boldly and loudly, “JUST DO IT”.

I have been in wild and windy Wales for this New Year. It is of course home sweet home, but it can have its downside; for instance, when I wake up in the morning to the insalubrious screeching of sea gulls, who dare to arrive at sunrise making a beeline for my car as they swoop to use it as their local loo! The dawn chorus is ear- drum -shattering as they compete to hit target, depositing copious amounts of fishy excreta on my windscreen; ( yes ok, I know - sh . . happens!)

But there is a glorious upside. My seascape vista is amazing as my gaze hones in on the old picturesque lighthouse; the boat-bobbing harbour, and farther still across the bay I panorama the stunning Gower and its magnificent coastline. Somehow, all of a sudden I do not even mind the darn seagulls. To accentuate the positive,

they really are a very small blot (literally) on my landscape, and at least the dawn raucous serves to remind me how lucky I am to live so near the sea in a breath- taking and most beautiful part of the universe.

I’ll finish with another’s thoughts on New Year resolutions Last week, Anna, an ardent TCN reader sent me some pledges she intends to adopt. Anna says she needs all the help she can get so is using them as a prayer for 2014! Poignant, yet also very amusing; here they are.

“Lord, you know I am getting older and someday will be old.

Keep me from getting talkative and from the habit of thinking that I must say something on every subject and on every occasion.

Release me from craving to straighten out everybody else’s affairs.

Make me thoughtful but not moody; helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom it seems a pity not to use it all, but you know Lord that I do want a few friends in the end.

Keep me from going into endless detail and give me new wings to get straight to the point.

Seal my lips from reciting my many aches and pains and my love of rehearsing them which seems sweeter as time goes by.

Teach me the glorious lesson that I occasionally may be mistaken.

Keep me reasonably sweet. I do not want to be a saint; some of them are so hard to live with, but a sour old woman is not a blessing to anyone.

Help me to extract all possible fun out of life. There are so many fun things around, and I do not want to miss out on any of them.

Amen” Well that’s all nice and positive isn’t it? And it’s given me something to smile and sing about as I scrape the seagull poo off the car, before driving across to the lovely Gower coast for some homemade Welsh cakes and a drop o’ the local brew on Mumbles pier.

My questions to myself, and perhaps you may like to join me in asking them, are simply the what, how, when, where, who of making a difference in 2014.

So that we do all the good we can, by all the means we can, in all the ways we can, in all the places we can, at all the times we can, to all the people we can, as long as ever we can. Why? It may International Evangelical English Church Playa del Inglés & Puerto Rico just help accentuate the posiAn independent non-denominational Christian church. All services are conducted in English but the tive and eliminate the negative congregation has a very international flavour and all are welcome. for us and for so many others in Puerto Rico Playa del Inglés this promising New Year.

Sunday @ 10:00am

Meeting in the Centro Ecuménico with is located to the side of the large Templo Ecuménico. The entrance is opposite the Kasbah Centre.

Sunday @ 12:30pm

Meeting in the premises of the Scandinavian Tourist Church which is situated at the back of the Puerto Rico shopping centre.

centre.

Tel: 928 062 915 Mobile: 603 455 258 Email: englishchurchgc.gmail.com Web: www.englishchurchgc.org

A happy and meaningful 2014 to you.

Kay Owen January 2014

g n i k o Sm

32

Oct-Nov 2013

News, Views & Sunshine

This is not a confession. This is not a story or a parable, a manifesto or a warning, a love letter or a fantasy, self-help or recruitment drive.

If it mattered when I first tried a cigarette, I could tell you where, who with and what brand. If it was important, I could consider the year or so between my first, childhood cigarette and my second, adolescent one and draw conclusions from it. I could speculate about whether I enjoyed the smoke, or whether I enjoyed the fact of smoking, or whether I enjoyed that I did it with others and enjoyed that they liked me when I smoked. I could even wonder if I hated it, worried about whether I was doing it right, found the dizziness that went with it thrilling and terrifying.

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it. Cigarettes will kill me, and they make me sleep badly, nervous, cough, smell and smoke, and yet I continue to consume them. It’s insane, literally. Any positive effects of a cigarette are entirely contingent on the previous cigarette and the one to come, as Allen Carr so relentlessly emphasises.

Drinking to excess is one thing, but every single cigarette is excessive, and we know it, in our bodies and our bones as well as our minds. We know that every small cough is a premonition of larger ones; we know that the slight yellowing of our fingers is darkened, many times worse, in our lungs; we know that the just-perceptible bagginess in our skin won’t go until we don’t smoke anymore; and we know that a slight pain in our throat, a tickle in our chest or blood in our mouth, might mean it’s already too late. We know we’ve smoked too many.

Can I think of specific cigarettes I’ve enjoyed? I can certainly think of situations in But it doesn’t matter. The thing to remem- which I’ve been smoking when I’ve been very happy, but I don’t think that’s the ber is that it was always chosen. Smoking isn’t a characteristic or personality. Nicotine same thing. Has a cigarette ever caused me doesn’t force anything. I am no more or less to enjoy something that I wouldn’t have a smoker now than I used to be. Cigarettes enjoyed anyway? smoke, but living people do not.

People who say not smoking requires willpower are wrong, but so are those who I didn’t want to have a cigarette after the say it doesn’t. It’s a cliché to point out that first handful. Rather, I wanted to have had ‘willpower’ is loaded, like ‘giving up’ and one, which isn’t the same thing at all. My ‘quitting’ – it sets you up to fail. Of course cigarettes have been both the prompt to I have willpower. I get out of bed every and gratification of an impulse, where inday, don’t I? If I smoke, am I weak-willed? herent in scratching the itch was the itch to come. It’s not a circle, because it started Nonsense. You could easily say the opposite somewhere; it’s a many-knotted string, with (and people have). But not smoking does take will. It’s not a will to act, but a will not a beginning and an end. to act, an assertion that manifests its sucAddiction is a word for stacking the odds. It cess in passivity. Unwillpower. Will. is no more difficult not to consume a particular cigarette when you are addicted than There’s no joy in any of this. There’s no right it is when you’re not addicted. It’s always a to feel pleased with yourself. It’s no more impressive not to smoke than it is to smoke. choice to have one, but it’s not necessarily It’s just a choice that you make, like getting a choice not to. When you’re not smoking, you are not smoking; you only begin smok- on the bus or cleaning your teeth. ing when you choose to light your cigarette You shouldn’t stop smoking. There’s no and draw its dead product into your lungs. A should. You might feel you have local, temsmoker makes love to their employment; a poral obligations not to do anything that smoker makes an effort. Not smoking should increases your chances of death, but the be as simple as laziness. Not bothering. universe cares nothing what goes into your lungs. Stopping smoking is not really a deciIt’s unfathomable to know this and still do

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sion to be made; but the decision to smoke is made every time you have a cigarette. I have stopped smoking thousands of times, on occasion for as little as five minutes, and the only real difference with my stopping smoking this time is that there has been a longer gap since I last stopped having stopped.

How is it possible that I have consumed cigarettes, on and off (mostly on) for more than half my life? Was that first cigarette, proffered by the older brother of a friend in the woods at the bottom of the school playing fields, really any good? All that for a Rothmans? Of course not. The second wasn’t any better, taken from another older boy, behind a bike shed (really), at another school. I think I was almost sick that second time. It took a few months, probably, a pack or five, to acquire the habit. And then, very quickly, all at once, smoking seemed part of who I was (though it was never anything of the sort). I smoked between lessons. Then I smoked after school. I smoked on holidays and with friends. I sometimes felt like I owed it to myself to smoke, so I did, even on my own, as if I was practising.

And yet, there were moments: moments that have turned into images and nothing more. Smoking at Perugia airport, espresso already taken care of, waiting for a taxi in baking sun. Camel Lights, Camel Blu, with the slight sweetness that no other brand quite matched, drawing softly. Sitting on a paddock by a duck pond; cigarettes in restaurants with whisky; smoking in the summertime. These, but not the obligatory morning drag, not the cold pub doorways, not the cheap, chemical-light roll-ups, not the cold and the wet. A cigarette never made me feel good if I wasn’t already feeling good.

I don’t regret smoking, but it remains a puzzle. And every now and then, with a drink, or getting off a train, perhaps after a large meal or a small coffee, something nudges me, craftily, not to have a cigarette exactly, but into thinking that smoking is something I do. And then there’s a choice to make again. @PeteJRScott TheJunket.org

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