The Canary News, Views & Sunshine 104 February 2016 - Warmest January in 55 Years

February 2016 The E nglish Newspaper

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WARMEST JANUARY

IN 55 YEARS

January was unusually warm and very humid throughout mainland Spain and The Canary Islands. With a national average temperature of 9.5˚C, and an average of around 20˚ in the shade in The Canary Islands, January was more than 2˚C above the average

expected during the first month of the year, making it officially the warmest January since 1961. Maximum temperatures in the shade ​​close to 30˚ were recorded in The Canary Islands, which saw a very warm and very dry month according to data released

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WARMEST JANUARY IN 55 YEARS News, Views & Sunshine

2016

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by the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET)

The continuing trend, over the last nine months, has seen higher than normal temperatures, with Canary Islands maximums closer to those expected at the end of June, 29.5°C in the shade having been recorded in the middle of January. In direct sunlight, of course, it can go much higher, which is why all those public temperature gauges on the streets and down by the beaches always read higher than the official forecasts. When its 22˚ in the shade, our African sun can raise that in to the 30s.

The lack of rainfall has been very similar to January 2012 and 2013, and AEMET went so far as to point out that half of the driest months of January in the last forty years have been in the twenty-first century. A clear effort to point towards climate change as being ”significant” factor.

There has even been a slight surplus in hours of sunshine, especially in midland areas, with no windstorms registered and only two instances of Calima Saharan dust haze on the 18th and 24th.

Throughout the rest of Spain AEMET data shows that January has been rather wet, with uneven distribution of rainfall, and an aver-

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

age of 90 liters/m2, 41% more than the expected average (compared to the base data between 1981-2010).

Excluding the Canary Islands, January’s highest temperatures in Spain were ​​on the 8th in Santander airport reaching 25.7˚C.

Temperatures throughout the month exceeded average expected values ​​by more than 2 degrees in much of mainland Spain and both archipelagos, including at night time.

January rainfall was extremely uneven: very dry in the Balearic and Canary Islands and in regions of the Mediterranean and very wet throughout most of the rest of Spain. In large parts of central Castile and Leon rainfall exceeded 300% more than normally expected, while in much of Catalonia, Valencia, Balearics and Canary Islands, northwest of Murcia and the eastern end of Andalusia it did not reach even 25% of the normal expected average.

As the month came to a close rainfall was recorded in all regions except on the Mediterranean coastline and the majority of Canary islands and Balearic Islands, though even these rains were minor. It’s an El Niño year, and we’re feeling the heat!

Meanwhile in Tufia “Strangely beautiful” was one of the descriptions on the social networks when this scene emerged from a small, little known village called Tufia, on the east coast of the island. Most however failed to see the artistry in hundreds of kilos of tomatos and cucumbers having been simply left out on a hillside to rot. Its actually visible from space!

With large numbers of low income families resorting to food banks as their only means of survival it is pretty sickening to see all this food going to waste. We don’t know why this happened, but we’d like to find out how we can make it more worth the farmer’s while to give this food to those who most need it. What a shame, and what a disgusting waste!

N ews ,

S unshine

Editor-in-Chief: Edward JB Timon Editor@TheCanaryNews.com

Telephone: 928 987 952 / Office Open Mon - Sat 9AM - 5PM Sales: +34 620 978 709 (En/Es/S) / Sales@TheCanaryNews.com via 928 987 952 (En) Accounts: Accounts@TheCanaryNews.com Production: Production@TheCanaryNews.com

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Edita: JDC Canarias SL, Imprime: Canarias7, Gran Canaria, España. Deposito Legal GC1291-2013

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El Tomate Canario CC2.0 by-sa El Coleccionista de Instantes

Canarian tomato export has fallen more than 80% in the last 15 years. Early 2000 saw export numbers as high as 352,000 tonnes, compared to the last year’s figures of just 63,000 tonnes. The sector has been going through difficulties over the last few years, due to drastic cuts in transport subsidies, pests and increased competition from other countries like Morocco.

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CANARIAN TOMATO EXPORTS SLOWLY RECOVERING

The number of tomato producers has also diminished and with them, the hectares of land devoted to the crop. At the beginning of 2000 there were 956 producers totalling about 3,400 hectares, currently there are only about 320 with just 720 hectares devoted to growing. With less producers, the number of export companies has gone down from 70 to 15, which has led to a decrease in direct and indirect jobs throughout the sector.

Export is now growing again though, due to various promotional campaigns and with island producers joining forces with more commitment evident from the local and

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regional government. A lot of work and action will be needed if the region is ever to recover the high point numbers of years ago.

The Scandinavian market, in particular Sweden, is one of the main destinations for the Canarian tomato and has been growing exponentially over recent years. Other primary markets include the UK and Germany.

A promotional campaign, which began on 15 December and ended on 25 January, 2016, celebrated the 130th Anniversary of tomato export activity from the Canary Islands, with the slogan “130 Years of cultivating the best tomato South of Europe”.

House Prices Rose Slightly in The Canary Islands House prices in the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, rose by a massive 6.01% year-on-year, to rank 1st for the fastest increases in Spain, compared with January 2015. Meanwhile, Santa Cruz de Tenerife (+2.46%) is fourth in this ranking, according to the monthly sales pricing report from property website Pisos.com.

The price of second-hand housing overall is of course rising, on average, much more slowly than this number, which basically just says that January 2016 was markedly better in Las Palmas than January 2015. House prices are still fluctuating month-to-month elsewhere.

House resales in the Canary Islands rose 0.06% from December 2015 and an average of 0.78% year-on-year to end January at €1,302/m2, ranking the region as the sixth least expensive in Spain overall.

Both provinces in the archipelago recorded increases in their prices since December; Las Palmas (+1.53%) shows the second strongest increase in Spain and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (+1.47%) the third, and in terms of price, Santa Cruz de Tenerife (1,322 euros) is more expensive than Las Palmas (1,301 euros).

At €1,295/m2 in January 2016, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the fourteenth cheapest provincial capital city in the country and Las Palmas is more expensive at €1,492/m2.

In Spain nationally, second-hand housing stood at an average price

of €1,545/m2 in January 2016, representing an increase of 0.66% compared to December, but down 0.52% year-on-year. Housing prices closed the month with what has been called a “timid” upward trend in the words of pisos.com CEO, Michelangelo Alemany, who warns that “the rallies will not be aggressive in any case,” as once stabilization is reached the sector will enter a phase of consolidation.

According to Alemany, the only “obstacle” that could slow the housing market is increasing political instability. “The positions of our government should be reconciled…seeking the common good through dialogue. The house [market] is a delicate issue that needs a reasonable deal, both for those working in this business as well as for end users,” he said.

The Pisos.com monthly report shows that the most expensive regions in January 2016 were The Basque Country (€2,796/m2), followed by the Balearic Islands (€2,088/m2) and Madrid (€2.041/ m2).

By contrast, the cheapest houses were in Castilla-La Mancha (€968/ m2), Extremadura (€1,118/m2) and Murcia (€1,172/m2). Compared to January last year, the most striking upturns occurred in The Balearic Islands (+ 1.72%), Madrid (+ 1.08%) and The Canary Islands (+ 0.78%). However, the heaviest falls occurred in Galicia (-8.14%), Valencia (-6.59%) and Navarre (-5.68%).

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TREADING TROUBLED February

2016

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Siam Park Gran Canaria Water Park Development “temporarily suspended” at last minute awaiting

A court order was issued at the end of December, once more halting the long touted new Water Park project in Playa del Inglés. The development, promoted by Loro Parque founder Wolfgang Kiessling and family, is set to be built at the main entry point to the southern Gran Canaria tourist resort of Maspalomas, and now could be delayed by up to three years, according to sources close to the case.

The president of the Cabildo, Antonio Morales, said “the administration has done its homework” commenting that he regrets that some “do not to accept free competition” in the market, referring, it is assumed, to competitor businesses already established in the south.

The company Lebensraum Wasser, which has links to Aspro group, the operators of the Aqualand and Palmitos Park tourist attractions, complained that both the Island Water Council and the Gran Canaria Cabildo violated the law when granting licenses to allow the channelling of some public lands in the area of ​​El Veril, without putting it out to tender, according to Jose Carlos Francisco, an adviser to the Kiesslings, .

The applicant developer stated in its defence that the permission for canalization of the ravine, work valued at around €2 million, was solely a decision for the island’s water authority to make, and did not require the granting of a contest, as claimed by the petitioners Lebensraum Wasser.

Jose Carlos Francisco, points out that it is solely the “land owner”, having already reserved a budget of €60 million euros investment for the plot, who would have any interest in completing these works.

“What other entity would want to bear costs of up to €2million without having particular interest in the area?” asked the director of the Loro Parque tourism group in a quote to investigative journalist Thaidi Llamas for Spanish Language Daily La Provincia.

The precautionary suspension of works it is thought now jeopardises not only the €7million that the Kiessling group has already invested in El Veril, with the purchase of the land from the heirs of the noble Familia del Castillo, back in February 2014, and the project design, but also funding for the construction of the park and the accompanying hotel on a side plot, which was granted a couple of months ago.

More Delays The further delays in construction of the park, according to legal sources from the project’s investment group, could take up to three years before a decision was properly arrived at, the company would have to repay the tax benefits it has received from the Canary Islands

Investment Reserve. The company has a maximum of four years, starting from 2013, to realise at least a €40 million development for which it has been granted tax relief.

“We hope that the judge imposes a bond, which will be presented to the company that has brought the action. We will ask for a guarantee for damages caused, which could exceed €20 million,” Francisco revealed to La Provincia.

For his part, the president of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, Antonio Morales, has said the legal department of the island government is considering whether the institution will be required to attend at the hearings or only after a judgement has been arrived at. “In the first instance I do not think we need to act in this case,” said the president.

Morales has insisted that “the administration has done its homework” in regard to this agreement, which was approved by the unanimous vote of the political groups within the Cabildo, in the previous legislature, when the procedure was originally launched. “In the last six months it has fallen to me to streamline some of the administrative details, such as easement for roadways, which are now already resolved. But it must be remembered also that the Committee of Planning and Environment for the Canary Islands (Cotmac) has expressed its approval”, the president pointed out.

In his view, “in this case, as in others, this is an action by those who defend the free market but who in turn have paralysed significant investments to Gran Canaria, for their own interests.”

“This is not the first time, unfortunately, the private sector has shown that it does not accept free competition” said Morales without directly addressing the likely motivations behind the company Lebensraum Wasser having appealed to the Administrative Court.

Like Morales, the mayor of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Marco Aurélio Pérez expects judgement of this litigation to be resolved in a “quick and agile” manner. “My job is not to express an opinion for or against the dictates of the court room, but to wait for the court to resolve it as soon as possible,” said Pérez.

The Town Hall of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, according to estimates from the investment group, chaired by German entrepreneur Kiessling, could lose up to €2million in revenues from the Tax on Construction Facilities and Works (ICICI), from the expected first year of project’s execution alone.

WATERS

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administrative court appeal outcome

Editor’s Comment: It is important to remember that in this particular case the development has received unprecedented support not only from the various Gran Canaria institutions involved, all the way up to the primary island government, the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, but also has been designated a project of strategic importance for the future of the canary islands economy and development of tourism by the regional Autonomous Government of The Canary Islands.

Although links have been rumoured between the petitioners Lebensraum Wasser and Aspro Parks (the Aqualand and Palmitos park operator); this publication has yet to see any direct evidence of the link, which has for us been limited to the suggestion that both companies share the same legal advisors, one of whom is the administrator of the company in question.

Lebensraum Wasser was set up in 2014 not long after the completion of the land deal and around the time of the announcement that the project had been accepted by the institutional bodies involved. Nobody seems very clear what their function is as a company, however it is noted, possibly in preparation for this action, that they announced a significant increase in share capital over the summer, presumably, at a guess, as some sort of war chest with which to fund the hampering of the new development.

As President Antonio Morales has pointed out, for once this is not a development that has been obstructed by governmental institutions, but instead the action leading to the suspension of the project has come wholly from the private sector, and many suspect solely from the vested interests of a rival company who do not seem to welcome any sort of competition.

The project on the whole enjoys unprecedented institutional and public support and so it is the opinion of this publication that it is only a matter of time before the development is allowed to continue forward, so long as the promoters are able to bide their patience, and the judicial system is able to function within the time available to keep the project on the rails.

This is certainly not the end of the Water Park project, which remains as one of the most likely and significant advances to tourism infrastructure to be completed within the coming years.

The burning question is simply: When?

- Edward Timon

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2016

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Kiessling’s Loro Parque Group calls suspension “incomprehensible” and says he is ready to move investment elsewhere if project remains locked in litigation Wolfgang Kiessling, promoter of Siam Park El Veril, in southern Gran Canaria, announced at the end of January that he will give up on the construction of the water park if the Superior Court of the Canary Islands (TSJC) ratifies the interim suspension handed down by Labour Dispute Court Number 3 of Las Palmas.

The German businessman said he is not willing to continue litigating in the courts for five or six years and criticized the decision of the judge, Olimpia Rosario, because, in his view, she has not yet understood the importance of this project for the future of tourism in the Island.

The theme park owner, however, did express confidence that the high court will unlock the project within five or six months, allowing him to exercise the administrative concession granted by the Insular Water Council of Gran Canaria and start the canalization of the El Veril ravine saying that he has no reason to reproach institutions or politicians on the island, for they have all supported his initiative.

Speaking to Radio Canarias at the International Tourism Fair in Madrid (Fitur), Kiessling said that Siam Park will lose its commercial interests in El Veril if the judicial suspension is maintained, and that the investment would be carried to another place, without specifying where.

"Everyone tells me that the judgement is difficult to understand, it is incomprehensible that after people who have put all their soul into two and a half years of work, in addition to the work of the Cabildo and technicians, that one judge can [suspend the process without having understood] the complexity of this project, "he said.

"I trust that with the steps we have taken, things will move forward. I have said that the appeal hearing [should] be held in five or six months, but if we do this and lose, then Siam Park loses, there is no future, because the next appeal would last five or six years."

The German promoter, based

in Tenerife for the last 40 years, thanked the institutions of Gran Canaria and the autonomous government for their support to Siam Park El Veril, but insisted that a legal setback would force him to withdraw its construction.

Strategic Project

"I'm not angry at Gran Canaria, or any of its political [institutions], since [they] all support me, the left, the right and centre. The draft for Siam Park has been declared of strategic interest, therefore I would not go with a damaged heart, but no commercial interest would [want to] continue in that fight" he said.

Kiessling doubts that any company other than his would be willing to undertake the development of infrastructure in the ravine of El Veril required to channel water as he has committed to do. He believes that Lebensraum Wasser simply acted out of envy, presumably on behalf of companies like Palmitos Park and Aqualand, because, in his opinion, they believe the opening of Siam Park Gran Canaria would harm them.

In his view, the suspension of tourism projects sends a bad signal to other potential investors interested in Gran Canaria and the Canary Islands. In an order made on December 23, the judge Olimpia Rosario suspended the administrative concession granted by the Insular Water Board to Loro Parque to occupy 121,000 square meters of public land in El Veril, as a precautionary measure.

Loro Parque has filed an appeal against this judgment, which also requests that Lebensraum Wasser submit a bank guarantee for €56.7 million, to serve as insurance against possible damages resulting from the temporary suspension.

Loro Parque has estimated the damage for the definitive suspension of the project could exceed €68 million, of which €42,140,000 would correspond to Loro Parques investment and €26.33 million to the governments. Gran Canaria waits and watches in frustration.

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February

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

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NEW YEAR’S DAY GRAN CANARIA STYLE

1 January, Las Canteras, Las Palmas Becoming a bit of tradition now up in the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is the collective dip in the ocean to celebrate the first day of the year organised by the City council who encourage everyone to join in at Las Canteras beach, just next to the Sand Nativity scene, at La Puntilla and enjoy our privileged winter weather.

New Years Day 2015

THE BIG DIP

As part of a drive to highlight and promote winter tourism in the capital of Gran Canaria at the city’s main beach, showcasing it as one of the best places in the world to go for a New Year swim.

In addition, the initiative aims to encourage and enhance a tradition that many residents and visitors of Las Palmas repeat every 1 January to kick off the new year with a refreshing dip in the ocean.

GRAN CANARIA WINTER SALES UNTIL 6TH MARCH The Winter Sales on Gran Canaria start in January and end on 6 March. There are still plenty of bargains to be found in the various commercial centres and shopping malls, with the main ones being a short bus ride a way, it can really be worth shopping smart at this time or year. Take the 90 from Puerto Rico for the Atlantico, the 91 for an express ride to Las Palmas or the slow bus, Number 1, for a lei-

surely ride to every stop in between.

The summer sales will officially be between 1 July and 31 August. So now’s your chance to pick up some real bargains before summer.

The Regional Ministry has confirmed the calender for other sale periods in 2016 and the 10 fixed Sundays, when shops can be open outside their usual days of operation.

Holidays during which shops can be open on

each island, are established by the Regional Ministry Trading Commission. The law sets a minimum of sixteen extra opening days per year, but each region is allowed to change the figure according to heir business needs, though it can not be less than ten days a year.

Gran Canaria extra opening holidays planned for 2016 include: 24-March, 2 and 30 May, 15 August and 4, 6, 8, 11 and 18 December 2016.

ABANDONED SHIP SINKING CLOSES BEACHES

Las Palmas town hall had to

prohibit swimming at one of the capital city’s beaches, Las Alcaravaneras, in the third week of January after fuel pollution started to come ashore and was visible on the sand, accompanied by a strong smell, which affected at least half of the beach.

The Port Authority of Las Palmas later found a sunken ship to be the origin of the oil spill. A review was performed using port security camera recordings, despite early reports having indicated that the technical origin of the spill must have been from outside the port area, ruling out nearby supply lines or any of the boats docked.

The investigation showed how ever that on the night of January 20, a boat that was awaiting scrapping, and was moored to another, the Cory, sank in the dock, according to the Port Authority. It was this vessel of Korean origin, the Poong Lim 11, owned by Charter Marítimo Archipiélago Canario SL, which was the source to the spill.

The company has the tender for maintenance of abandoned ships, of which there are several in Las Palmas port. For their part, the company, which acquired the ship in May 2014 for scrap, has communicated that they will take appropriate action.

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Canarian Town Halls say NO Circus Animals

With a controversial circus troupe having moved from San Bartolomé de Tirajana, in the south, to Telde in the north east of Gran Canaria, a stir has been caused across the island. A motion was brought before the Telde town hall on Friday 29th January, and we are pleased to report that they voted to adopt its text saying NO MORE to circuses with animals.

The animal protection groups Voces Animalista and Adopta Una Amigo de Gran Canaria have been instrumental in sharing information, raising awareness and getting people together to protest about the abuse of animals forced to perform for the circus-going public.

The Telde town hall agreed the motion while the circus was still in town for another week and still selling tickets to their Image: Lion in cage at Cirkus Kaos shows.

The move came a day after Santa Lucia also joined the Spanish municipalities stating they wish to stand against circuses with wild animals. Several other local councils have adopted similar motions put forward by animal activists and local politicians.

The municipality of Santa Lucia de Tirajana approved a text stating that “circuses with wild animals denaturalise the planet and offer no appropriate environmental education, promoting a false and distorted vision of the animals, breaking the life cycle of nature and living things, being entirely anti-pedagogical even for children, who are the majority public of these shows.”

The municipal document states that these circus shows appear to be non violent, but in reality the lives of the animals are a torture because they spend most of their lives locked in cages and even chained.

Surprise and protests greeted the arrival of the Cirkus Kaos on to the island in December, with activists leading demonstrations in Las Palmas, and then in the southern municipality of San Bartolomé de Triajana where the show was present for nearly three

Editors comment: We have nothing against honest and talented circus performers, of which we know many and we are sure there are many who are part of this circus also. However even the briefest of research in to the subject reveals a huge litany of abuses and years of torturous practices that have been the staple of the performing animal trade, a trade in which the circus has been one of the most high profile participants and perpetrators of the most heinous cruelties.

Though we cannot speak first hand about this particular travelling performance troupe, we did take the decision early on that we would not be giving them any publicity whatsoever, simply because to support any part of an industry, that has resulted in so much pain for so many innocents, would be to become complicit in it.

We witnessed with our own eyes, however, the large male lion (pictured) this circus has travelling with them and saw this gargantuan and incredible animal in a cage hardly big enough to allow him to pace a circle. We know from much research that performing animals of this kind are often taken at very young age, and taught early who their masters are. Though many

weeks on municipal ground, near the tourist area of Maspalomas.

The exhibition of wild animals in circuses is prohibited by law in many countries like Canada, Sweden, Denmark, Bolivia, Austria, Peru and Greece. According to a list of “ethical cities” provided by website Infocircos.org, there are currently about 250 Spanish municipalities that have been declared free of animal shows in circuses.

These latest Canarian municipalities have expressed their wish to “join the list of ethical cities free from such circuses; investing in circus, artistic and creative performances led by education and [good] values ​​for our children, where the talent and spectacle lies in the skills of the people who work in it.” They wish to be part of the many cities “Spanish and worldwide, who are committed to a fun circus without animal cruelty. Among them one of the most prestigious non-animal shows, the Canadian, Cirque du Soleil.”

Telde and Santa Lucia begin to walk as an example on Gran Canaria, along with other municipalities of the Canary Islands, including Arrecife, El Rosario, Los Llanos and Puerto de la Cruz taking this first step forward, which must be continued if we are to change the current by-laws that allow this industry to continue.

trainers in the industry have tried to paint a picture of symbioses and reward, the vast amount of evidence is stark and tells a story instead of fear, pain and punishment as being the primary guiding principals motivating these animals to act in the most unnatural of ways.

So, we are pleased to announce the forward thinking decision of the Ayuntamiento de Telde, and of Santa Lucia de Tirajana, and would point out that they join an ever increasing number of municipal town halls in the Canary Islands, and in Spain, who want nothing more to do with this animal abuse.

The animals on display in circuses include wild animals, though mostly born in captivity, they strongly maintain their natural instincts and the learning process involves forcing them to perform totally unnatural behaviours for their species, using violence and the threat of violence as motivation.

In addition, the keeping of wild animals in circuses does not contribute or provide a benefit to the conservation of the species.

The European Treaty of Amsterdam in 1997 on vertebrates recognises them as being endowed with sensitivity not only physical but also psychological, that they can feel pain, suffering and distress.

However what is most shocking about this whole debate is that the Law 8/1991 of Animal Protection for the Autonomous Community of The Canary Islands prohibits the use of animals in shows involving abuse, cruelty or suffering.

If keeping a large male lion in a small cage, and forcing him to perform, or keeping elephants chained for up to 90% of their lives is not cruelty or suffering, then we are at a loss as to what is.

It is time for every municipality on Gran Canaria and in The Canary Islands to outlaw this type of performance, and in fact go further to try and ensure that these types of travelling circus are not just made unwelcome, but even have the animals confiscated directly should they step foot within The Canary Islands at all.

Furthermore it is time at a regional level that we call on the government of Spain to stop providing arts funding (as is the case with Cirkus Kaos) for shows that include animals, kept in unnaturally small spaces or forcibly made to perform in any manner that falls outside of what could be considered their natural behaviours or environments.

STOP THIS NOW!

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February

SHARKS ALLIANCE SLAM POOR NEWS JOURNALISM 2016

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Members of The Canaries Sharks Alliance (Alianza Tiburones Canarias) and their president Fernando Frias went to interview Cris Ojeda, the swimmer who caught a special “sighting” of what is thought to have been a silky shark off the Arinaga coast on Boxing Day. After an hour of conversation with Cris, and having studied images of her injuries, the team were able to identify, with some certainty, the species of the animal who tried to swallow her left arm during her late afternoon swim, thought to be a silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis).

The incident was believed to be a hoax by many at first, including the president of the shark alliance, but the story caught the imagination of the sensationalist media, and the public, immediately turning Cris, 38 from Madrid, into a minor celebrity, with various news crews seeking to interview her.

The Shark Alliance have expressed disappointment “that some tabloid newspapers continue using expressions such as “Attack” or other even more dramatic phrases” to describe the incident, chastising “journalists [who publish] without first attempting to collect reliable information on what happened, [speaking] with the people involved and specialists in each subject.”

The truth is, they say, that the species has been identified with reasonable certainty, and that what happened by no means suggests

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

that there is any risk at all to those still bathing, swimming or diving in Canarian waters.

“There are “Journalists”, and then there are Journalists” said the president of the organisation.

First published in English by TheCanaryNews.com on December 26th, the story ended up going global in the days that followed with well known British tabloids and newspapers across the world picking up on the incident. Sensationalist as ever, most forgot to mention that not only is this the first ever case of its kind in living memory in the Canary Islands, but they also failed to point out that sharks in general, and particularly Silky Sharks, have absolutely no taste for salty human flesh at all, preferring instead a more sedate fish dinner as their prey.

This clearly was more a freak case of mistaken identity on the part of the shark, rather than any type of wilful attack. You can be sure that the shark was as shocked as anyone and couldn’t wait to get back out to open water.

The most contact with sharks that any visitor here is likely to have in the future will surely only be the occasional dive to see our native Angel Sharks (their tiny and harmless) or if they are lucky: at the new Siam Park Gran Canaria water park, should it ever get built …

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February

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The Photographers - From the opening of the exhibition in Casa Condal in San Fernando, July 2014.

- Behind: Eugenio, Siga, Victor and Monica. Front: Rayco, Chicho and Tana.

Sigita Zuoryte is part of a photographers workshop in Mogán that started a few years ago. It began as a workshop in learning digital photography, supported by the Mogán town hall. The group was so enthusiastic that they didn’t want to split when the workshop finished, so they kept it going to a much more advanced level.

At the centre of the group is the passionate photographer Chicho (Antonio Caballero Matos) who initially started that first workshop. His love for the art of photography influences the group in the same direction, rather than taking a commercial approach to photography.

- “You would think it is teacher - student based, but it is not. Even though Chicho is like a mentor to the group, we study independently and discuss technics and art on a peer to peer basis” says Zuoryte.

Over the years the workshops has covered many different topics in photography, including stills, studio photography, natural lighting, nature, and more.

“We have teamed up with local fashion designer Aday Batista and his fashion models, which has benefited all of us greatly” Zuoryte says enthusiastically. “He has photographers that provide him with photos of his creations, and we have challenges and models to practice with.”

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Invisibles - from the social project with portraits of women in Mogan.

The woman in photo is Pino, working in fruteria in CC Ancora.

Lines

Life - Street and moments from life.

Stills - Exercises with available light

The secret forests of the pickles jar

Insomnia

The group’s works have surprised photography communities all over the island with their quality, especially coming from a group of beginners, which has lead to them being invited to exhibit their work; including at the Casa Condal in San Fernando and Agrupacion Fotografica in Las Palmas.

Last spring in relation to international women’s day they undertook their first social photo project, dedicated to the working women of the municipality of Mogan. The project, named The Invisibles, brought together a broad range of authentic Mogán women, of all ages and all professions and nationalities, with the results being exhibited in the municipality.

Zuoryte remembers “Many of the women portrayed were moved to tears by the fact that for first time they had been recognised and celebrated, which also made a big impression on all of us who photographed them.”

Besides these group projects, each photographer has their own personal photo projects that they present for the group.

In this way they all evolve and grow as photographers.

Though the group lost their original meeting place, as the town hall had other priorities, they now hope with the new mayor a greater focus on culture will mean that the town hall just might help to find a new, permanent space for them to meet

Workshop with Aday Batista - Photos of models with designs from fashion designer Aday Batista from Arguineguin.

and store equipment and that they will be able start up again as planned this February.

Initially Chicho started the workshops to teach people how to use their new cameras and learn photography. But the group has evolved into a social community of photographers, new and practiced. Chicho is now looking to building a strong, local community of enthusiastic photographers, not necessarily focused on turning professional, but instead on developing their skills and those of the other group members.

They welcome any new photographers that share their passion, and invite them to join their workshops, but they would also like to hear from anyone that would like to collaborate one way or another.

“The most important thing” says Zuoryte, as their mentor Chicho would say, is “Que hagan fotos!” (take photos!)

Taller de fotografia de Mogan is on Facebook You can find Sigitas photos here:

http://mycanarylife.blogspot.com/ You can also find her Facebook page “Sigital”

2016

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February

TAKING PRIDE AND 2016

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Workers and entrepreneurs of the Yumbo Commercial Centre, Playa del Inglés, have been left somewhat reeling by a recent decision, in their local Town Hall, to substitute GLAY, the community association that founded Maspalomas PRIDE in 2002, with a new Spanish group, recently registered under the name “Freedom”, who tell us they only have the best interests of the event at heart.

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

Dignity, respect, tolerance and integrity are all so very

In their first official press release, at the end of January, the new group announced that “the council of San Bartolomé de Tirajana... have taken over” adding “We appreciate our involvement in this task which has been entrusted to us, and with that comes great responsibility.”

They wish it to be known they would like this year’s event “to be more international than ever, safer for the LGBT community, and full of culture and fun!” Although there is no indication yet as to how they plan to do that, they have been careful to emphasise that from their experience they know the event “is very different and multicultural, with people from all over the globe joining ... to celebrate.” And have announced there will be “a great team of professionals to help and advise” and promised that they would “be hard at work to make this the best Pride yet!”

We caught up with Freedom’s Fernando Iluyardi, to ask him what people could expect from this year’s event. “Many are saying we just want to run a Spanish Carnival,” says Iluyardi “but that is not true. In many ways the event will be just the same as previous years, but with more quality” explaining “we plan to have lots of international artists and have only planned one set of Spanish performers so far”. On the question of how performers will be decided he states “if people want particular performers, or have events they want to do, then they can come to us with their suggestions. We will consider all ideas.”

Let’s not forget that LGBT tourism on Gran Canaria is now estimated to be between 15% & 20% of the total visitor numbers to the Capitalising on their new position, backed by the administrative south of the island, which is to say twice the global average. LGBT president of the Yumbo, their press statement points out “If there tourists are known to spend more each per day than your average is an issue in which both the local Council, the community of the tourist, with marketers still racing to cater for the so called DINKs Yumbo Centre, and Freedom agree, it is in the joining of forces. For (Dual Income No Kids). “The well healed gays.” this reason we have opened the doors to collaborate with all who GLAY have recovered from more than €150,000 of debt, in this would like to get involved.” Inviting anyone who wants to, to tell their 15th year, and for the first time in a decade, were forecast them “what you would like to see, your ideas, advice…” to make a profit. It seems locally that there may have been some Representatives of the founding organisation say they originally other game afoot. New brooms aloft and a clearing of paths. welcomed the new energy, coming as it did with increased conThe town hall’s simple statement to this newspaper, in an exclusultations from the town hall, however concerns arose over how decisions on the ground were to be made, as news also filtered in sive (not-yet-published) interview with Events Councillor José from various sources around the Yumbo centre about a new group Carlos Alamo back in September, was that they willingly “support any event that benefits the local area, so long as it meets the demanding thousands of euros in membership fees, claiming, as standards required” to ensure a positive image for Maspalomas. early as October, that they were now running the show, and according to one secretary that they planned to “crush GLAY” and Of course that fairly adequately answers how it is that other comtake over PRIDE. A tall order indeed, and yet GLAY continues. mercial entities since 2014 have been able to set up a new events, even assuming the name PRIDE, despite having not been chosen Sources close to GLAY have claimed that it obviously did not go as representatives by any of the Maspalomas LGBT community so down well to be told that “the only way” they “would be allowed to participate” under this new regime was if they first handed over well established for so many years here on Gran Canaria. “all funds and sponsorship monies” to this new group, at the time, not yet officially registered as an association. GLAY and its commit- Lending credibility to one project was a document secured from the office of the Yumbo Comunidad de Propietarios (Business Owners) tee have emphasised their strident moves over the last two years saying that they supported the new events and had no objections. towards clear democratic decision making and financial transparA simple enough statement, correctly presented, it also set a precency, in an effort to respond to some of their critics of the past. edent, the importance of which few had full knowledge.

Their drive to “clean house” and ensure the integrity of the event has been somewhat wrong footed by these new demands.

For the town hall, this has little to do with any egalitarian, misty On the question of how Freedom plans to fund the event Iluyardi is eyed preconceptions about why PRIDE exists as a movement; for clear “All money must be paid directly to Freedom, so that we can them this is all to do with well ordered affairs, transparency of show the town hall”, there are those not yet at ease with this idea. business, an image of progressiveness and increased economic growth. Presentation, not representation, is what its all about.

Spelling out the message, they wish to control all the finances.

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important in avoiding arrogance dressed in rainbows

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February

2016

Some positives have certainly come from this newly forced change of circumstances. Fresh blood and new perspectives. An opportunity, it is hoped, to make new alliances and to try and improve on the perceived inadequacies of an event which has grown haphazardly and, shall we say, ‘organically’ so much over 15 years.

It has become apparent also that newly created events almost certainly had their roots in more than a simply commercial desire to take over a community’s success.

An unfair description of why it really needed to happen, they were perhaps attempting to retain, rather than take.

In fact one outstanding local professional, Emiel Wijnberg, says that he has seen himself simply as a “protector of the name” Maspalomas Gay Pride, when faced with the constantly changing fortunes of GLAY, in which he is still a vocal member. It’s been hard to know who to trust, and perhaps honourable intentions have been clearly misinterpreted. Lots of voices have wanted to be heard, but not so many have acted so consistently.

The town hall has found itself in a difficult position. They clearly want to support LGBT community events, their stated aim to “ensure that standards improve” at what is now their “biggest attraction” of the year and more than anything they want nothing to do with conflict and infighting between the various interests operating through the Yumbo centre and PRIDE. Most of all they want a well run event, a quiet life and continued economic success.

With the representative of the Yumbo Business Owners telling the council, repeatedly, that GLAY no longer represent Yumbo business, councilmen have had to sit up and take note. Despite not being fully true it’s been compounded by allegations, from previous years, of deals under the table, involvement in questionable financial activities, and so of course elected representatives like Alamo must visibly seek to protect the general interests of the town.

Add to this, growing public divisions between the various factions, some of whom appeared as well organised professionals, accusations of a lacking in clear and transparent accounting practices, unsubstantiated talk of financial impropriety, questionable paypal account transactions, loans without proper records, along with clear evidence of merchandisers insisting on cash payments and failure to produce proper receipts or complaint forms, ill informed disputes over intellectual property rights and repeated calls for higher core production values, but a reluctance to increase public funding or infrastructure to the event, then we absolutely have a recipe for necessary change.

Rest assured the new group have their work cut out for them, and the members of GLAY perhaps find themselves able to relax a little for the first time in many years. Perhaps they will concentrate on enjoying this years events. Some will participate because they must, and some will preserve their dignity, sit on their hands and wait to see what happens next. For most the question is “Who is it that represents LGBT Gran Canaria? and how?” Like most now, we plan to stand back and watch.

Faced with mounting pressure, since at least 2012, from an uneasy town hall keen to ensure that expected quality was being met, it was clearly an astute decision to try to prevent any mismanagement of this long running investment, until now under the control of a well meaning volunteer force, few of whom, if any, possessed prior major events know-how or enough professional standards to be able to reassure the powers that be.

There are those who would wish that these protective efforts had been made more clearly part of a process aspiring to some democratic ideal. For the good of all.

However when confronted with a public association, primarily made up of 100 or so local business owners, seeking to participate in the biggest event of the year, it clearly makes little sense to try to make every decision through a committee and an annual general meeting. To do so, there would need to have been clearly defined structures and protocols, many of which GLAY has only just started to employ over this last year. To run an event on this scale it is necessary to act with business-like intentions, to have trusted advisors, and professional contractors, who can get the job done effectively, who then report to a committee of elected representatives.

Only time will tell what seeds have recently been sown for the future, much will be evident in GLAYs published accounts of the situation, and their focus on representing clear truths, and integrity of purpose, and Community.

This event GLAY founded is now an international bench mark for the island, so perhaps it is right and proper that governmental institutions take a much firmer hold of developing its future, meanwhile ensuring its legacy.

Those who were fighting, should now stop. The whole community needs to take stock, decide how it wants to be represented and walk forward with some much needed dignity and unabashed humility.

- Edward Timon

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2016

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

CANARY ISLANDS HOTEL INVESTMENT RISES 300% The Canary Islands were the most popular region in Spain for hotel investment in the first nine months of 2015 with a total of 369 million euros invested.

The figure is a 300% increase on the 136 million euros invested in the whole of 2014 which was itself a 55% increase on the 2013 figure.

The money was spread across 15 separate investments affecting a total of 5.636 tourist beds.

Gran Canaria accounted for a large proportion of 2015 spend thanks in part to a 75 million euro investment by the Hispania group. It acquired four Gran Canaria hotels ( with almost 1200 beds) from Grupo Dunas and also committed to

investing a further 9 million euros in refurbishment.

Total hotel investment in Spain during the period increased by 54% to 1,237 million euros and 2016 is forecast to be another good year with Socimis ( Sociedades Anónimas Cotizadas de Inversión Inmobiliaria: Listed real estate investment societies) expected to spend heavily in Spain.

The Hispania investment in Grupo Dunas hotels was an example of a Socimi investment.

With demand for holidays in the Canary Islands at an alltime high and the year-round nature of tourism in the archipelago, Gran Canaria and the Canary Islands are currently a European real estate investment hotspot.

2016 might

be the best year to buy a Gran Canaria property

Walk around south Gran Canaria at the moment and it’s hard not to feel optimistic about the future.

The island’s hotels are practically full, the resorts all feel busy, and most quality rental properties are booked up.

This is, of course, partly due to the situation in Tunisia and Egypt which has reduced winter tourism competition significantly.

However, it’s also due to the appeal of Gran Canaria in general; A destination and second home with great weather, beautiful surroundings and European-standard healthcare and security.

Of course, a booming tourist industry is also good for the island’s property market. The more people that come to the island and enjoy themselves, the more people want to buy a property here.

2016: More of the same There’s little doubt that 2016 will be another record year for Gran Canaria’s tourist industry and we expect this to boost the south Gran Canaria property market.

Here are five good reasons why we expect 2016 to be a great year to buy a property in Gran Canaria

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Over the next couple of months there will be so many Carnival celebrations going on across our beautiful island that it is hard to list them all.

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February

2016

15

Dates and times for some of this year’s main Carnivals on Gran Canaria follow and a little information from some of the published programmes. Carnival Parade fans see p18

Maspalomas Carnival 2016

Wednesday 24 February, Yumbo

“MASPAWOOD”

21:00 Election of Senior Queen

19 February- 28 February Friday 19 February, Yumbo

21:00 Carnival 2016 Opening

20:00 Performances of local bands Thursday 25 February, Yumbo

21:00 Election of the Drag Queen

23:00 Big Party “Platforms on 22:30 Big party, “The lighthouse heels” likes it hot” Friday 26 February Saturday 20 February, Yumbo Tourist Day 21:00 Election of the Carnival 12:00 Rescue of the Sardine (At Queen the beach of Maspalomas- Playa 22:30 Big Party “Queen of the Dunes” Sunday 21 February, Yumbo

23:00 Big Party at Yumbo “Raiders of the lost flip-flops

19:00 Election of the Children’s Queen

17:00 Carnival ParadeBurial of Sardine route

Monday 22 February, Yumbo

21:00 Big Party ” Gone with the mask”

Tuesday 23 February, Yumbo

19:00 Free dance workshops 21:00 Show “In full swing”

9 February – 6 March

Maspalomas Traditional Carnival Highlights Tuesday 9 February - Centro de Cultura

21:00 Tourist show at Yumbo

17:00 Carnival for Children “Alice in the land of masks”

19:00 “Without Barriers” show, including participants of all abilities, ensuring inclusion for those with physical or mental disabilities.

Traditional Carnivals

del Inglés )

Saturday 27 February

Sunday 28 February,

at the shopping centre Anexo II in Playa del Inglés 14:00 Carnival on the beach 20:00 Reading of the Sardines last will

20:30 Burial of the Sardine, 22:30 Drag Queen pre-selection fireworks Wednesday 10 February Friday 4 March 20:00 Plaza Pública, El Pajar 19:00 Plaza Pública in Fataga Thursday 11 February Sunday 6 March 20:00 Plaza Pública Pepe el Barbero, 18:00 : Plaza Pública, Santiago de Tunte El Tablero

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El Peri贸dico Ingl茅s de Gran Canaria

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2016

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30 January – 14 February

“LA VUELTA AL MUNDO EN 80 DÍAS” Friday 5 February

21:00 Drag Queen Gala, municipal sport center Juan Vega Mateos

Saturday 6 February

12:00 Family Carnival at Plaza de Santiago

Friday 12 February

18:00 Parade, Plaza de Santiago 30 January – 21 February

“UN CARNAVAL LITERARIO” Saturday, 6 February

11:00-14:00 Children’s Carnival, Playa de Arinaga, Avenida del Polizón Bouncy castles, workshops

Saturday 13 February

13:00 Street Carnival. The fourth edition of street carnival where all activities are centralized in the Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Rosario and beyond.

Activities, workshops and competitions aimed at all ages. In addition, you can enjoy a paella and solidarity with the delivery of a kilo of food to Municipal Caritas.

And live music throughout the evening.

T he C anary N ews . com Parque Nicolas Quesada

Friday 12 February

21:30 Humor and Draq Queen show

Saturday 13 February 21:30 Carnival night

Sunday 14 February

17:00 Children’s fiesta

Friday 19 February

21:00 Live feed showing on big screen from Las Palmas Drag Queen show Playa de Mogán Carnival, Plaza Dr. Pedro Betancor León

Friday 19 February

19:30 Drag show “circus Queen”

Saturday 20 February 21:30 street party

Sunday 21 February

17:00 Children’s Fiesta

1 March - 6 March Arguineguín

Saturday 5 March

Carnival Parade (TBC)

“Los locos años 20” 29 January – 21 February,

“Un Carnaval Literario” 30 January – 21 February,

“La Vuelta al mundo en 80 días” 30 January – 14 February,

“Maspawood”

25 February- 6 March

19 February- 28 February,

‘VIVE ESTA FANTASÍA’

“Vive esta fantasía”

Thursday 25 February, 19:00 Street procession

Friday 26 February

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

25 February- 6 March,

“Cabaré”

1 March – 6 March,

20:00 Opening ceremony

Sunday 28 February

16:30 Pet Carnival, Plaza La Jurada

Tuesday 1 March

20:00 The rescue of the Sardine, Playa del Burrero

2-3 March

21:00 Murgas, Plaza de la Jurada

Friday 4 March

18:00 First Fashion world catwalk Carrizal

Saturday 5 March 17:30 Parade

22:30 Burning of the Sardine, fireworks

Sunday 6 March

16:00 Children’s Carnival

Santa Lucia de Tirajana, “Los Años 80” 3 March – 12 March,

“El Mar y sus misterios” 4 March – 12 March,

“Terror”

4 March – 13 March 5 March – 13 March

2016 Carnival Parades Friday 12 February : Gáldar Saturday 20 February : Las Palmas Saturday 27 February : Maspalomas

Saturday 5 March : Arguineguin and Carrizal Saturday 12 March : Telde and Vecindario

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SHOPPING

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February

2016

IN LAS PALMAS

If you are in Gran Canaria and love shopping, you have to come to Las Palmas. Nothing beats sitting on Las Canteras beachfront enjoying a cold caña whilst watching the sun set with a pile of bargains around your feet.

The problem with coming to the city on a shopping trip is deciding where to go first…….

Laura Leyshon The two main shopping centres in the city are El Muelle and Las Arenas. Both have a good range of fashion shops, supermarkets, bars and restaurants, cinemas and kid’s soft play areas. They are a perfect place to escape to on a hot or rare rainy day as there is plenty to do.

El Muelle is the first shopping mall that you see when you step off the cruise ship and it’s also the closest one to the Santa Catalina bus station. It’s a beautiful building with lots of outdoor terraces for lunch or a drink.

Las Arenas, however, is the best shopping centre in Las Palmas for the serious shopper, this is the place to go to visit as many of the big shops as possible in a short time. It’s right at the south end of Las Canteras beach behind the auditorium and within easy reach of the beach front for sunset drinks…...That´s if you make it out of there by sunset, shops in the city close at 10!

If shopping centres aren’t your thing then don’t worry, there are plenty more places to choose from. First on any shopper’s city itinerary should be Mesa y Lopez.

The city’s original modern shopping area and still a good bet for fashion and shoes, Mesa y Lopez is also home to Gran Canaria’s El Corte Inglés; Think a cross between Harrods and John Lewis. This department store, on both sides of the street, sells everything from upmarket fashion to jewelry, and souvenirs to electronics. El Corte Inglés isn’t the cheapest place to shop, but for range it’s unbeatable. Most of the main fashion chains also have big shops on Mesa y Lopez, including Zara, Benetton and Stradivarius.

Last but not least we have Triana, recently voted Spain’s top outdoor shopping area. Triana is the city’s old commercial district and most of the shops are in beautiful old buildings. The main fashion shops cluster on the high street but don’t forget to walk up the cobbled streets for smaller independent boutiques.

Triana is also just a few minutes walk from old town Vegueta so you can combine shopping and sightseeing. Both districts are packed with cafés and restaurants and many do a three-course menú del día lunch menu for around 10 euros.

These main shopping areas can easy to access on foot or quick bus trips, and serious shoppers can even visit them all in one day.

Outside the city limits, you have more options; If you travel up the motorway from the South, you’ll see the Las Terrazas openair outlet shopping centre and another huge indoor shopping centre, called El Mirador, across the motorway. El Mirador has nearly all of the fashion chain shops plus a huge Primark, and Las Terrazas has a big selection of outlet stores where you are bound to find a few bargains.

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Laura Leyshon Property Expert How can I help you?

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acebook.com/LasPalmasProperty

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Making it simple Contact me today to talk about what you’re looking for or to view our lastest listings. laspalmasproperty.com laura.leyshon@remax.es 608169845

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1 I speak English,

Spanish and French

So I can deal with the local authorities, cutting through the hard work so you can enjoy your property search

2 I understand your needs

As a foreign resident and local property expert, I can help you find what you’re looking for

3 Access to hundreds

of properties

I can show you almost any on sale property in the city,

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Easy, Fun, Effective and Free!

L i l l yR i k h t e r. c o m A Walk In The Park is an initiative from Russian fitness coach Lilly Rikhter, working with The Canary, to offer elements of Yoga, Pilates, Stretching & Functional Training for anyone who is interested in coming along and discovering her technique.

- It’s best not to eat for at least 2 hours before your workout.

- Wear comfortable clothes and training shoes.

- Do not exercise while chewing gum. And certainly not if you have been drinking alcohol, ‘intoxication’ is not good for the body, the clue is in the word, and it won’t help you feel good.

- Sessions are held outdoors, so do not - A Walk In The Park is perfect for It is absolutely FREE to participate, with no forget about security measures, bring some beginners, and should be a simple pleasure. warm clothing and wear sunscreen. strings attached. All ages, body shapes and It is an opportunity to master some of Lilly’s levels of fitness are welcome. techniques, and learn to perform basic - You will need a fitness mat or a towel to moves, learn their names, and get used to place on the ground for some exercises.

The simple aim is to motivate you, and a new kind of activity for you, so that if you perhaps those close to you, toward a - In case of bad weather (rain, strong want to you can progress to the next level healthier lifestyle and to show you just wind, etc.) activities may be cancelled of complexity. some of the ways that you can improve without notice, but Lilly will try to inform your fitness in an interesting, easy and fun everyone beforehand through a special - Participants who already exercise will find environment! that they too will learn some of Lilly’s basic, announcement on the Facebook page & but surprisingly effective techniques. Lilly her website LillyRikhter.com Its the first step to feeling better about your Rikhter is available to guide all levels of life.

- All levels of fitness are welcome. Its personal fitness, and can arrange private worth remembering though that if you are sessions.

Every Sunday from 12:00 - 13:00 just starting out, then it may take some - While training with Lilly feel free to joke, Parque Sur Maspalomas time and regular practice before you can laugh, take photos and selfies, motivate complete every exercise fully.

FREE for Every Body each other, and yourself by helping to - Be attentive to yourself, try to pace create a positive record of the work we do It’s easy! It’s a Walk in The Park! yourself, move your goals gradually, and - it is one of the main component of these try to enjoy the sessions, the aim is not to activities! Don’t be shy, have some fun!

Lilly’s Recommendations: reach the point of exhaustion.

- To determine the functional state - After group sessions applaud yourself and - Whatever your goal: whether it is to of your body you are advised to first each other, but most of all, if you want to reduce body fat, strengthen muscles, consult a doctor before deciding to join say thank you, applaud Lilly! relieve stress, or simply to feel better, in. Particularly if this is your first training - Leave comments or questions at you should never try to force anything. session for a while.

Remember, the main thing - that is to https://www.facebook.com/AWalkInTheParkWithLillyRikhter/ - Being late to the group by more than 10 achieve good feelings, to feel well. minutes is dangerous for your health! If, Thank you for your attention! however, you are late, you are still welcome - Take your time to learn and improve each exercise. For everyone it is the same, it to join in, but you’ll be asked to perform some warm-up exercises to warm-up your takes practise to become good and feel confident, take your time, you can do it. joints. This is to prevent injuries.

- Remember the main conditions for - You should bring water with you whenever you exercise (non-carbonated) or success: be organised, try to be precise and train to a system. Ask any questions. a fitness drink.

r e t h k i Lilly R X

A free hour of fun and fitness every week with Lilly Rikhter Every Body welcome, every size, shape and ability. You’re beautiful and we know it.

Now feel it! Every Sunday from midday, Parque Sur de Maspalomas No catch, no quibbles, just stretching and a little bit of sweat. Feel Fantastic ALL 2016!

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

Twitters from THE ALL-INCLUSIVE WRISTBAND the Atlantic 2016

© Barrie Mahoney

Recent news articles about asylum seekers in Cardiff being forced to wear brightly coloured wristbands in order to claim their meals each day rightly drew both amazement and disgust from many decent people in the UK. This news broke within a few days of the ‘Middlesbrough red door’ controversy, whereby the homes of asylum seekers were targeted because all their front doors were painted red. Again, many people complained that this policy was wrong. Both incidents revealed an appalling lack of sensitivity towards people who require help and support during a desperate time in their lives.

Barrie Mahoney was a head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands to launch and edit a new English language newspaper. He enjoys life in the sun as a columnist and author, and continues to write a series of popular novels, books for expats, as well as designing mobile apps and websites to promote the Canary Islands.

The issue surrounding brightly coloured wristbands in the Welsh capital drew particular disgust, since any refusal to wear the wristband would simply mean no food. Some likened it to the enforced Star of David symbol, which was used by Nazi Germany to easily identify the Jews. The forced identification of any part of human society in this manner is both degrading and inhuman, and I can understand the disgust and public outcry that both incidents caused.

On a lighter note, I have never understood why so many visitors staying in hotel complexes in the Canary Islands, as well as other tourist complexes in other parts of Spain, are content to wear wristbands, similar to those offered to the Cardiff asylum seekers, which identifies them as ‘Breakfast’, ‘Breakfast and Dinner’ or the ‘gold standard’ of ‘All-Inclusive’. Now, I know that Madge and her family in the television comedy ‘Benidorm’ are quite happy to feast upon all that is offered for 24 hours a day, but do real holidaymakers actually want everyone else to know about it? In any case, do they really want to go home with a white ‘lack of sun’ ring on their wrists to tell everyone that were ‘allinclusive’ characters performing in ‘Benidorm’?

I am not a great lover of the ‘all-inclusive’ deal. Yes, I know it is a godsend for those on a very tight budget, and particularly when travelling with children. I also know of the damage that it causes to restaurants, bars and other small businesses trying to survive on the islands when faced with competition from the ‘all-inclusive’ hotels, which are financed and backed by large companies with profits funnelled well away from these islands.

I too have been tempted by ‘all-inclusive’ deals on a couple of occasions, and had a very good time knowing that I could eat and drink without spending another euro for the duration of my holiday, but in the long term, is it really worth it? In addition, the boredom of eating in the same place, at the same table, with more of less the same buffet offerings each day made me feel as if I was in prison rather than on holiday. As for the obligatory wristband, I refused to wear it and, as with the asylum seekers, was briskly informed that I either wore it or didn’t eat. I decided to wear it, but later cut it off, and devised a system with the help a piece of gum that would allow me to wear it only at meal times and remove it afterwards; unlike the asylum seekers, I got away with it.

Allegedly, the asylum seekers were threatened with being reported to the Home Office if they did not wear their wristbands and their claims for asylum would be rejected. Others suffered verbal and physical abuse from motorists and passers-by who spotted the wristbands. Life for the asylum seeker is hard enough without some heartless ‘jobsworth’ threatening to take away their only means of survival. Thankfully, on this occasion, common sense seems to have prevailed and both red painted doors and wristbands are to be dispensed with.

Now back to the ‘all-inclusive’ deals; may I politely suggest that hotels do away with wristbands and maybe consider some other form of ready identification that is less crude? How about retinal identification or thumbprints, or a quick flash of an app on the mobile phone that goes everywhere?

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander.com or read his latest book,

‘Island in the Sun’

(ISBN: 9780992767181).

Available in paperback, as well as Kindle, iBooks and Google Play editions. iPhone/iPad and Android Apps: ExpatInfo, CanaryIsle and CanaryGay now available. © Barrie Mahoney

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ARE YOU APPLYING FOR THE “RESIDENCIA” IN SPAIN?

ASSSA can help you

In 2012 the Spanish Government changed the legislation regarding the healthcare system and you will find more rigorous requirements when applying for the “residencia” in Spain.

Whatever your problem is, if ASSSA can help –we will!

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We speak your language, answer all client queries fully and with complete honesty and assist with any questions you may have. Contracts are of course

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Insure your health!

With Spanish insurance companies you hardly will find two important guarantees we offer in ASSSA:

1. Our premiums do not increase due to age - The age you join is the age you stay - no age adaptation of the premium.

2. ASSSA guarantee cover for life - in writing and in our General Conditions we give you this so important guarantee that we never cancel your policy, not because of age or due to high policy usage.

Visit us for a chat and without any obligation, receive a personal premium calculation. Our area manager will be pleased to answer all your questions. We look forward to your visit!

Customer Service Office: Nicole Schaefer Tel: 928 778 664 Av. de Tirajana, 37 – Edificio Mercurio, Torre I - 3ºG grancanaria@asssa.es www.asssa.es

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By Diego Mesa (Puerto Rico Language Centre)

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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

GETTING TO GRIPS WITH CANARIAN SPANISH

ABARRENADO/A

SAMAGO

A fruit that has been eaten by a worm or any other creature...

E.g. Este año la mitad de las papas están abarrenadas de bicho de alambre. - This year half the potatoes have been eaten by wire bugs

A teenager with a very developed physique and an indolent behaviour Eg. Este samago debe estudiar mas si quiere ser alguien en la vida – This lazy youth has to study more if he wants to be somebody in life.

Is a person with a strong build, however quite small.

E.g. Era un hombre bajito, pero abarrenado - He was a A young and very developed animal. small man, but stocky

Check out our latest series of videos. We post a new clip every Friday on our Facebook page. Facebook.com/PuertoRicoLC

Meat Lover?

TRY Nino’s delicious Mixed Grill, Thursday - Sunday

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Hotel Roca Negra - Agaete Opened in January 2010, the Roca Negra Hotel & Spa is built into the volcanic rock of the fishing port and village of Agaete on the rugged, pristine coastline of north western Gran Canaria.

In a remote environment, far away from hustle, bustle and stress, this hotel over looking the ocean is an oasis for travellers yearning for tranquility and a deep connection with the natural beauty of this land.

The Hotel offers an outdoor salt water pool, Jacuzzi, Squash court, Gym, Two Restaurants “Le Rubinie” (á la carte) and “La Caleta” (italian specialities), a Pool Bar “Roca Lounge” and small Cocktail Bar “La Colombaia”.

For Mind, Body and Soul, there is simply nothing more rewarding than a visit to their fully kitted Spa Ossidiana, offering a full range of body treatments with which to reward yourself with feelings of wellness and relaxation.

The abundant natural surroundings facilitate a large variety of outdoor activities including cycling, hiking and diving... with a complete range of excursions available away from the usual tourist trail, and the tourists!

Well worth checking out the nearby Painted Caves, the nearby pre-hispanic northern capital of Gáldar, Europes only fully producing coffee plantation or simply some of the extraordinary fresh fish restaurants down in the town.

Bajada de la Rama Agaete - courtesy of LaGuiadeGranCanaria.com

August is Fiesta time in Agaete with one of the most popular events of the year, the Bajada de la Rama summer fiesta

Contact www.hotelrocanegragrancanaria.com

reservas@hotelrocanegragrancanaria.com

+34 928 898 009

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Language Lesson #99

¿ERES CARNAVALERO?

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

with Theresa Coe STAYING SAFE

Carnaval es un paraíso para carteristas – a paradise for pickpockets. If you plan to drink and dance in the streets, leave your mobile and credit cards at home: deja tu móvil y tarjetas en casa.

A Spanish tradition that is huge for Carnival is hacer botellón – to drink in the streets. People find ingenious ways to incorporate huge amounts of alcohol into their fancy dress theme, such as decorating un carrito– a shopping trolley - and filling it with booze. Many offer to share their tipples – “¿Quieres un trago?”

– fancy a sip? And the aseos públicos (mostly portaloos) get grubbier as the night unfolds. I recommend taking your own papel higiénico or loo roll! If you don´t like crowds – las multitudes – go out early, maybe choosing a smaller town for carnival such as Arguineguin which is more family-oriented (más para familias).

Or leave before the jóvenes or young people hit the town around midnight. In an emergency dial 112 and speak English.

Carnival is coming –and with it, a great opportunity to chat to locals as nothing quite breaks down barriers like the sight of a hairy Canarian in a miniskirt. If you´re a fan of Carnival, (pronounced car-na-VAL in Spanish), you´re carnavalero/a. However, if it´s not your thing, say “no soy muy carnavalero”. Remember, if it´s ‘o’ at the end of words to describe men, you change it to ‘a’ for a woman.

WHERE DID YOU GET THAT HAT? Top accessories or complementos for the silly season include: sombreros grandes, pelucas y gafas: big hats, wigs and glasses.

To save money, get your disfraz, or fancy dress costume in the Chinese shops (‘los Chinos’) or in the flea-market (el rastro) e.g. Sunday mornings in San Fernando. You might want to ask: “¿Tiene pintura de cara?” Do you have face-paint? Or “¿Se venden disfraces?” Do you sell fancy dress? If so, “¿Puedo probarmelo?” Can I try it on? And importantly: “¿Cuánto es…?” How much is it?

WATCHING THE GALA AND PARADE You might want to see the Gala Drag (Drag Queen competition) or la Gala de la Reina (Crowning of Carnival Queen). Later, la cabalgata, or parade, will be lead by the winning carrozas (floats) which you have to pay to travel on. “¿Cuánto es para estar en la carroza?” How much is it to be on a float? Most are followed by choreographed dancers (bailarines) and have their own theme tunes and costumes to tie in with their theme or tema. Aparcar es una pesadilla: parking is a nightmare – better to take la guagua – the bus, or a taxi.

¡QUÉ GUAPO! This means “how handsome!” if you´re talking to a man or ¡Qué guapa! to a woman. “¿Puedo sacarte una foto?” Can I take a photo of you? Maybe you want to be in it: “¿Puedo sacarme una foto contigo/con ustedes?” Can I be in a picture with just you/all of you?

“Me encanta tu disfraz” – I love your costume. “Me gusta cómo bailas” – I like how you dance, or tell carnival-goers “te ves fabuloso/a”: you look fab (to one person) or “ustedes están fabulosos” (to a group). “Me encanta esta canción” – I love this song. “¿Hiciste el disfraz tú mismo/a?” Did you make the outfit yourself? ¿Dónde lo compraste?” Where did you buy it? And a must for everyone: “¿De dónde eres?” Where are you from? To which you might reply, “Soy británico/a” – I´m British.

Given the volume of music and people, you might need to shout: “¡No puedo escucharte!” I can´t hear you! Though if you learn one thing for the event, I´d go for “¿Dónde están los aseos?”

Where are the toilets?

EL PUNTO DE ENCUENTRO Be warned – if you don´t have a very specific meeting point or punto de encuentro, you may never find your friends. A popular place to join others is at a chiringuito or refreshment stall where you can sit and enjoy carnival favourites like churros con chocolate (sweet fritters you dip in hot chocolate) or carne a la brasa – a selection of barbecued meat.

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February

2016

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Just chill out &

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

Afrikat your day away...

With a maximum of 35 passengers, the Afrikat cruises from Puerto Rico, passing the port of Mogán, and heading towards a crystal clear bay, where you can visit the sea caves in their speedboat.

Enjoy a refreshing swim in the water, try snorkeling or some serious watersports at a special discounted rate. The day includes buffet lunch and drinks (beer, sangria, soft drinks & water).

Every day from 10:00-15:00.

Check on Trip Advisor No 1 Boat tours and Watersports in Puerto Rico

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30

SPORTS SHACK February

2016

News, Views & Sunshine

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The newly open sports bar in Maspalomas, offering a full size pool table, darts board and 3 large screen TVs showing all football, Rugby including The 6 Nations, which starts this month and horse racing as we all enjoy a flutter!!

There is a great snack bar next door which has a tasty menu of pizzas, burgers and Paella etc Sports Shack is front line to the sea, on Maspalomas Beach, a perfect location; and offers Worker’s Rates to those lucky enough to live here.

Play like a winner!

Visit the Sports Shack for the full deal Your newest Beach Front Bar in Maspalomas.

El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria

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Send your answers by email to: Cheeky chappy John the mighty Quinn enjoys legendary status Quinny@TheCanaryNews.com, text them to 626 641 537 among the regulars and visitors or call 928 987 952 for your chance to win dinner for to Puerto Rico, on the south of two (2 starters & 2 mains & dessert), from Taste of India, Gran Canaria. the very finest authentic New Delhi kitchen on Gran Always with a warm word and Canaria. All correct answers will be collected together, a bright smile, Quinny is a man independently drawn and announced in the next edition of the people and a friend to all. The Canary is very proud to Last edition’s winner is Mick Arkroyd, who has won work with such an outstanding dinner for two at A Taste of India, Phase 2 CCPuerto Rico! individual. If you see him around, (subject to availability) buy him a little drink and enjoy some time with a true legend!

But girls, hands off... he’s taken!

1. Minky, Sperm, Killer are types of which sea creature?

2. What does a ornithologist study?

6. Which internet giant has been accused of UK tax evasion?

7.The Bundesleaga is which country’s football league?

3. Which wartime sit com has just been released as a movie?

8.Which singer had a hit with my boy lollipop?

4.Which poster sang in character as Ziggy Stardust?

9.Mary Shelley wrote the books about which monster?

5. Which premier league team used to play at Filbert Street?

10. What is the Spanish word for afternoon (1pm-7pm approx.)?

Answers from last edition

Ans White Christmas (Bing Crosby)

Ans Cracker

3. Name the best ever selling Christmas song

Ans Jacob Marley

2. in the song 12 days of xmas how many maids where milking

Ans 8

Ans Santas little helper

1. What I the Simpson’s dog called

5. What is usually pulled at the table during Xmas lunch 4. What is the name of Scrooge’s dead business partner

8. On what ay do candanavian people celebrate Christmas Ans 24th December Ans Boxing day

7.The Irish call it St Stephens day what do the british call it Ans Wished it could be Christmas every day 6. What did the group wizard wish for

Ans Carrots and Mince pies

10. what 2 food items are normally left out on Xmas eve Ans Fairy and Star

9.What are the two most popular tree top decorations