October 2014 FREE!
More Than €11,000 raised
and counting!
To kick start International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The an epic walk of over 20km from Fatága to Maspalomas. Canary News was honoured to be joined once again by the outstanding young tourism professionals who represent Thomson and They were met by an extraordinary and inspirational character, named Paul Gilliam, who led a team of adventurers coast-to-coast First Choice Holidays this year on The Long Walk 2014. over the mountains of Gran Canaria in just three days showing These amazing people managed to attract support from tourists solidarity with local Breast Cancer Association the ACCM. Together and residents as well as many local businesses to sponsor them on they have raised more than 11,000€ and still counting. Exemplary!
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Editor-in-Chief: Edward JB Timon Editor@TheCanaryNews.com
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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
The Canary News can not accept any responsibility for claims made by advertisers, either in advertisements or advertorial, nor can it be held responsible for any inaccuracies, errors, or the nonappearance of advertisements or advertorial. This publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors as a result of poor quality artwork or logos supplied by advertisers and no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy or nonappearance of an advertisement or advertorial. Every effort will be made to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of articles and advertisements in this publication, however the publisher does not accept responsibility for claims or opinions in the same. Reproduction of any part of this newspaper is permitted under Creative Commons 3.0 rules of Attribution, unless otherwise stated. Edita: JDC Canarias SL, Imprime: Canarias7, C/Mimosas, s/n-Parcela 131-1ª Fase-Manzana V 35119 Pol. Ind. Arinaga, Villa de Agüimes, Gran Canaria, España. Deposito Legal GC-1291-2013
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Special thanks in particular to Thomson Holidays, Thomson Airways Gran Canaria, First Choice Holidays, TUI Travel, Ilustre Ayuntamiento de la Villa de San Bartolomé de Tirajana, RIU Hotels and Resorts, Paul Gilliam, Jane Rasmussen, Shazza Fay, The Print Shop, Blue Explorers Divers, Suncare Central, Cabildo de Gran Canaria, Gran Canaria Walking Festival, Afrikat, Katy Bowness of Clinica Dental Gáldar, Steve Cashley, The British School of Gran Canaria, The British Club, Barbacoa, Elegance Hair, Nails & Beauty, Parador de Cruz de Tejeda, Deportes San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Sunweb, Veronica Aleman, Gran Canaria Natural along with our scribe and videographer Bård Ove Myhr, Mr & Mrs Timon and Ulla Nevalainen, & many more. Read all about it on The Canary News, Views and Sunshine. TheCanaryNews.com
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The Long Walk would not have been possible without our amazing support team Martina & Uillioc Timon resupplying the walkers throughout
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RIU Palace Maspalomas went further than most this year to support the outstanding efforts of Thomson Holidays and First Choice resort staff who together with tour operator TUI had walked more than 20km through an arid desert valley, from the mountain village of Fatága to the sea and the dunes of Maspalomas, in support of The Long Walk 2014 and their outstanding leaders, Paul and Sharon.
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The RIU event coordinated for The Canary News, was attended by survivors, as well as politicians and VIPs who all wanted to congratulate and applaud the walkers, to recognise their awesome feat (and feet), in selflessly raising funds and awareness for local breast cancer support association, the ACCM, at the start of International Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
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other side and appreciating the precious beauty of this life we all share.
Thank you to RIU Palace, and San Bartolomé de Tirajana, for going the extra mile and honouring these heroes of the local community, as well as recognising the importance of providing support to victims of Breast Cancer and their families and working to ensure that Several participants had actually prevention and positive health walked for three days, coast-to- are at the top of the agenda. coast over the top of the mountains of Gran Canaria, simply to This is the unforgettable moshow that with the right attitude ment when the more than 60 and the support of those around participants of The Long Walk – Gran Canaria completed their you, no obstacle is enough to stop you standing at the top of epic journey and were met at the outstanding The Riu Palace the world, coming down the
Maspalomas by a large group of including ACCM members and the founder of the charity (Asociación Canaria de Cáncer de Mama y Ginecológico), Marisa Herrera Ramos with the director of the hotel and a complete compliment of RIU staff, who were joined by no less than four city councillors including Ramón Suárez, Concejal de Turismo, José Carlos Álamo Ojeda concejal de eventos y festivos,
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All Raffle Prize winners can be found on TheCanaryNews.com
Local Artist Ulla Nevalainen designed & made The Long Walk awards given to each of the participants
Amanda Cรกrdenes Calero, Concejala representing women and the youth of the southern-most municipality and Manolo Vargas the councillor for human resource, who all released ballons of hope in to the air! You rock The Rock!
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Puerto Rico Solidarity, Coffee and a Close Shave!
Kim & Steve’s “The Pub” in Puerto Rico has again this year led the field in raising awareness and funds for local Breast Cancer Association the ACCM, ahead of this year’s International Breast Cancer Awareness month.
quiche and a whole host of other treats and baked goods which they brought to the event, participants then donated for each delicious piece they scoffed.
Those who have followed over the last few years will know that The Long Walk was born directly from Kim’s first sponsored walk back in 2012. We certainly hope that comes together, as all of With The Long Walk fast apour current activities ever since proaching, there was even talk of 2011 stem directly from Kim and Their now annual “Coffee Morn- a second sponsored walk from Co’s work in Puerto Rico. ing” event was a rip-roaring Puerto Rico to Amadores to be success, the venue packed out held on Oct 17th, in the run up “Barberism and Styling” was from 10 o’clock in the mornto the Playa del Inglés Camina taken care of by comedy host and ing, with many people bringing Contra Cancer due to happen on Rejuvena celebrity hairdresser, home-made cakes, sausage rolls, the following day, Oct 18. the “We-know-Whair-You-Are“
head-to-toe-clad-in-pink Graham, once again a primary protagonist in ensuring a fun day for all.
Founder of the ACCM and multiple survivor, Marisa Herrera, was present too with several of the outstanding psychologists retained by the ACCM for the support and treatment of Breast Cancer and Gynecological cancer patients and their families, along with several supporters and other members of their team. Atlantic Experience manager, Jacqueline Lindop again revved the crowd up with entertainment and song while running the raffle with a massive list of prizes, the top one being a holiday stay for two. (the winners pictured below) Kim herself was of course the powerhouse behind the gathering, and started the event off with a fun look at booby-health and the correct way to selfexamine, reminding all the girls that the best time to do so is straight after a shower, and to do so regularly at the same time of the month every month. She produced guidance information sheets and even got the boys involved, having pointed out that more than 5% of all breast cancer is found in men.
Watch the video of Susie’s ACCM Breast Aware Solidarity Haircut on TheCanaryNews.com
With the help of Barmaid Susie’s new Breast Aware Solidarity hair cut (which pulled in €380 extra), soon to be the style of choice for the coming October ahead; on the day, they raised €1905 Isn’t it amazing what you can do with good intentions and a little coffee and cake! :)
Insurance from A - Z
Your Agent of Allianz Patricia Ba Arguineguín C.C. Ancora, 97 patyba.allianz@hotmail.com
Tel. 685 287744
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Half a bag of spaghetti 2 good size avocados, pitted and scooped 1 lemon, juiced 2 cloves garlic 1/4 cup olive oil 1 handful fresh basil 1/4 tsp. salt, plenty of fresh black pepper Choose any kind of pasta and While it’s cooking you can make the avocado mixture. Yep It’s that quick and easy! Use a blender or a food processor, and add everything: avocado flesh, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, basil and salt and keep blending until it’s smooth and creamy. Once pasta is ready (10-12mins) use a bowl to mix it with the tasty green avocado paste. You can use grated lemon skin as an extra flavour and garnish together with few fresh basil leafs. As soon as it’s done, just dig in! Notes: the best part is that you can change the taste simply by adding bacon,tomatoes, chili, more garlic, less lemon juice, grated cheese/Parmesan ect. All together or just one at the time. Eat as soon as it’s done. it doesn’t work so well cold or next day Love Gran Canaria <3 GC
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So confident is he that he can help you improve your relationships with Spanish speaking neighbours and suppliers Diego has offered readers of The Canary News a whopping 20% off his prices for the Entrepreneurial Spanish Tutor, Diego Mesa, was born and raised first 20 customers to call him on 928 987 994! in Las Palmas. He has taught Spanish succesfully in London and He teaches the English speaking community of Gran Canaria Puerto Rico and speaks English fluently with near-native compeSpanish and native Canarians English. He knows what he’s talking tency, unlike many would-be language tutors on Gran Canaria. about! He recognises the importance not only of teaching English to his Damos clases de inglés en Gran Canaria. native country-men but also that as a foreign resident life and opIf you live on the south coast of Gran Canaria do not underestimate portunities can be greatly increased with even just the most rudihow important it is to get to know the island and it´s people? Work mentary of language skills to allow you to communicate with native residents and business people. He specifically focuses on commu- with local people, business relationships and life in general will all nicating with others, rather than simple text-book style, see benefit from a little learning. Why not send him a message to see just how quickly you can learn essential Spanish. classroom learning. He will come to you at no extra Si quieres aprender ingles o trabajas con el turismo y necesitas charge, at a time that suits you best. He believes you mejorarlo esta es la via para empezar a subir tu nivel. can do it, it doesn’t take long to gain confidence.
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British Club Outreach
A welcome and networking event was held in September 2014 at The British Club in Las Palmas. It was the first such meeting of its type and marks a new move forward for the club in terms of outreach and as a central information hub and meeting point in the capital, for anglophiles and indeed anyone who values good manners, ettiquette and a quintessantilaly British world view. The idea for the event came from the extraordinary Sandy Ball, who co-ordinated the evening by invitation, with the ever energetic Betty Burgess and club manager Daniel Morales. The evening was a way of introducing newly arrived teachers to the three main British Schools (The British School of Gran Canaria, Canterbury School and Oakley College) to each other, and to existing teachers and ex-pats, as well as to the British Club itself and to life on Gran Canaria in general. The Principals and teachers from all 3 schools were present, along with teachers from Colegio Brains and Inlingua. Esther Martin, British Vice Consul for the Canaries, also attended.
Several established island residents came along to share with the newcomers their local knowledge such as IT and telecoms advice, accommodation rental, web pages, language exchange groups, and of course The Canary News, Views & Sunshine was present, the editor even bringing along some of his homegrown organic mangoes and mangas to give away. Around 80 teachers and their families enjoyed drinks and snacks and a lot of useful information was exchanged in the ever convivial wood panelled atmosphere of this long standing Las Palmas institution. The British Club hopes to encourage teachers to think of the Club as their meeting place where events can be organised in the future with the intention to run the Oakley Cup inter-school teachers quizzes over the coming months as a first step. If you are interested in finding out more about The British Club of Las Palmas, feel free to write to us here at
TheBritishClub@TheCanaryNews.com or call us anytime on 928 987 952 for a little chat.
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Passage aboard The Lord Nelson
Tall ship sailing from Southampton to Gran Canaria, has now been reduced from £1795pp to just £995pp! With The Lord Nelson due to arrive in Las Palmas for ten days in mid November. The Jubilee Sailing Trust’s tall ship Lord Nelson will be setting sail from Southampton on the 20th October and heading south to escape the chilly autumn weather, to the fantastic Canary Islands on an 1800 nautical mile ocean passage like none other you will ever experience. Lord Nelson is one of only two vessels in the world designed and built to enable people of
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all abilities to sail. Climbing the mast, setting the sails and helming the ship are just a small part of what you will be learning. No prior experience is necessary and all physical abilities are welcome! Setting sail from Southampton, you’ll be fully involved in the day-to-day running of the vessel, regardless of your ability. Together with your crewmates, you’ll make towards the infamous Bay of Biscay before having the opportunity to explore one or two of the historic ports on the Spanish and Portuguese coasts.
Movember is upon us Throughout Spain prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in younger men aged 15 - 45 years. This #Movember we’re raising awareness and funds for this men’s health issue, but we can’t do it alone. Join us. Rally with The Canary under The Moustache. Sign up to be part of the #Movember movement this year. Together, and with hairy lipped fortitude, we CAN change the face of men’s health. #BigotesPodemos #TheCanary
http://mobro.co/TheCanaryNews
From there you’ll then head out across the open sea to the beautiful Canary Islands. Situated off the north-west coast of Africa, the Canaries are a stunning volcanic archipelago with a yearround warm climate and excellent sailing conditions. She’ll be arriving in Gran Canaria after a superb 20-day voyage. Now priced at only £995pp this is a brilliant voyage you simply should not miss out on. For more information or to book now please check out http://tinyurl.com/nqkeloq email sales@jst.org.uk or call us on +44 (0)23 8042 6849.
LOCALLY GROWN STYLES
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MOGÁN TO HOST FILMING OF A NEW BBC COMEDY SERIES
Webster and Ben Palmer of Happy Tramp Productions for BBC One. Most of the locations for the shoot will be located in Puerto de Mogán, although important scenes will also take in other points of interest throughout the area, including the beaches of Puerto Rico and Amadores. Set on a fictional Spanish island, Woody follows the fortunes of one of the UK’s best undercover reporters. Woody (Novak) is forced to go on the run from the British authorities after being set up by his corrupt newspaper editor. Woody escapes to find the one man he can trust, his former mentor at the newspaper, Brutus (Walsh). Now an expatriate living a quiet life running a bar on a Spanish island, Brutus is initially less than thrilled to see Woody. However, he soon realises that he can profit by putting his troublemaking protégé to work. Woody takes on a series of investigations on the island, running rings around the locals by using his astonishing ability to adopt a variety of guises at a moment’s notice.
On Monday, October 13, the municipality of Mogán in the sunny south of Gran Canaria will see filming start on a new BBC comedy television series, named “Woody” after its main character, is described as an eccentric reporter who flees the UK after getting into The production has the full support of the Department of Tourism some trouble and manages to find refuge in a quiet sunny island of Mogán and the Tourist Board of Gran Canaria. paradise, setting the stage for a series of hilarious adventures. This marks a further milestone for The Canary Islands and indeed Filming of the six-part, half-hour sitcom for BBC One starring Gran Canaria which have been the host of several major hollywood BAFTA-winner Kayvan Novak and Bradley Walsh, is set initially to productions over the last year including Ridley Scott’s ‘Exodus’ shot last at least one month with the participation of 50 local technion Fuerteventura and due for release next month, Ron Howard’s cians, coordinated by the Seven Islands Films production company. ‘In The Heart of The Sea’ shot on La Gomera, and Andy Tennant’s light hearted production shot this summer on Gran Canaria, Wild The series has been created by top comedy writers Neil Webster Oats, with an all star cast including Shirley MacLaine, Billy Connolly, and the outstanding Charlie Skelton and produced/directed by Neil Demi Moore and many others of note, due for release next year.
Noise Reduction in Playa del Inglés upset bar owners and confusion From 16 August, the City of San Bartolomé de Tirajana began enforcing a new byelaw, becoming the first municipal council in Spain to require bar and music venue owners to install centrally controlled sound delimiters within their premises. The popular Maspalomas & Playa del Inglés tourist resorts are expected to see businesses that fail to comply receiving fines of between 1.500€ and 15,000€ for excess noise.
The municipal byelaw was passed by the City of San Bartolomé de Tirajana on August 1, 2013, and business owners given six months to adapt their premises, the Canarian regional government then approved these as Regulations for Classified Activities and Public Entertainment. The local councillor for Environmental Policy, Fernando González, said that although the town hall could have started enforcing the law from last February they decided in the end to Though there seems to have wait for the full time limit set by been some confusion over what the Canary Islands Government, the exact rules are and to whom waiting until August 2014, “to they apply, in essence the law, have more legal certainty.” which was passed last year, requires establishments who “Seeing the wolf’s ears” utilise any sort of sound ampliAlthough the deadlines were exfication equipment including for live performance, DJs, video, tended to allow maximum time radio and television broadcasts, for compliance, González has said that he has taken for grantto install a specialist noise limed that most employers will not iter capable of recording and have adapted to local legislation transmitting breaches of the against noise pollution. “Until local environmental noise pollution ordinance. The Municipal we see the wolf’s ears we will council has said that they plan to not do anything,” said the Policy start inspecting establishments Councilman, using the spanish and impose fines and warnings phrase “Ver las orejas al lobo” referring to the many bar ownfor those who violate the local ers whose tendency it is to not municipal regulations. take decisive action to avoid
danger until the very last minfrom the start and permanently, ute, when they can see the dan- under no circumstances, are ger right in front of them. noise emissions to exceed acceptable limits either inside or The council added that the outside the premises or into the now-mandatory sound limitadjacent or surrounding strucers are simply an extra piece tures. of equipment required under local licensing laws and that In addition, officially approved they expect strict adherence to limiters come in a sealed system schedules established by the to prevent tampering and with Canarian Government’s Ministry a backup battery to circumvent of Industry. any power failures, they are to be specially calibarated and have Specific celebrations such as a storage capability of up to a traditional fiestas and festivities month with inbuilt inspection of the various local districts and software that allows for data villages throughout the munici- transfer of the limiters recorded pality, along with specific events information and sound levels like outdoor concerts will be ex- and even daily data transmisempt from the requirements so sion to a central data processing long as they gain prior municipal and evaluation unit of the local approval. police, which is expected to be operational in time for the To remind business owners of their obligation, the City Coun- deadline. cil issued an edict requiring all The tender for installation of entertainment professionals to the new noise policing platform respect this noise ordinance. was awarded by the City to the Specifically they have referred company Sistemas Ambiantales to Article 57 of the new rules Canarios, S.L.U. for a term of which states that the installation four years. of the software drivers and noise limiters must be selected from We would love to hear from approved equipment to ensure anyone with anything to say: that standards are maintained Noise@TheCanaryNews.com
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With Christmas fast approaching it is worth looking ahead to the cultural offerings in Las Palmas and the Alfredo Kraus to give you that sense of magic you may have well been missing...
A festival that brought together various concerts scheduled around the most diverse musical styles (from early music, to classical, jazz, pop, contemporary and Canarian) simultaneously in different venues throughout the day, showcasing the unique talent of Las Palmas to surprise and entertain. With a programme that included the music of Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, Mozart. Great classical music conquered the hearts the thousands who came to enjoy Music in the Plaza, an initiative from the Gran Canaria Philharmonic Orchestra Foundation, mixing fiesta, exhibition and festival on the beach of Las Canteras in the cultural heart of Las Palmas. MUSIC FOR ALL
Saturday 13 September should go down in Canarian Musical History as a very special day when the supposedly aloof world of “classical music” opened its arms, heart, lungs and soul to anyone willing to set aside their prejudices for a few hours and LISTEN. Musicas en La Plaza was officially a celebration of 25 years of the Youth Orchestra of Gran Canaria and 20 Years of its Chorus. In practice it was a good excuse for what needs to become an annual occasion: a menu of 35 events at the back of the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium using 8 different venues spread over 7 hours, plus three optional “ jam sessions” in the bars afterwards. STEALING AWAY
We worked out our way through the menu in advance and found it fun to follow. We did not know what to choose for the first course and opted for “From the South” just because we had no idea what it would be. It turned out to be one of the highlights of the day - even of our combined hundred years of concert going life! I would defy anyone on the island not to have been moved and impressed by this richly varied programme and a world class soprano soloist: Tippett’s arrangement of the Spiritual “Steal Away” was unforgettable.
handsome Ignacio Vidal (such things matter more than they should in the search for new audiences) and with the orchestra’s Scottish trombonist sportingly impersonating Shakespeare in costume. MUSIC AIN’T WALLPAPER
The Marea Baja and Mojo bars were the settings for some horn players and double basses respectively, so drawing in other sectors of the Las Palmas public who would normally steer clear of the Filarmonica. The double basses in particular put on a good show and shared themselves comfortably and casually but it did throw up an essential feature of classical music that depends on a certain kind of audience: classical music is music you have to listen to. THE JAMES BOND OF LAS PALMAS
No risk of background wallpaper for our 11.00 session. If anyone was flagging by then (and one of the beauties of the organisation was that people could drop in and out at any time), the percussion event would have woken them up. This was given by a group of young percussionists using mainly drums and xylophones to create a range of sounds breath-taking in their originality and virtuosity, in particular the immensely charismatic timpanist of the Filarmonic, David Hernandez Exposito.
FIREWORKS
So by now we were fully warmed up for Handel’s Fireworks Music given once again out in the Plaza. This time no strings were involved and the huge forces of trumpets, horns, woodwind and percussion rang out towards the beach, drowning any rival sounds in their path as fireworks added their own applause to the final movement. BEST IN THE WORLD
So all in all a great evening out. Whatever criticisms anyone may have are only possible because the event is worth taking seriously. By attention to such details a superb experience can become even more accessible. For what is certainly clear is that the Classical Music of Las Palmas is among the best in the world and should be part of what attracts tourists here and keeps them. Make sure you don’t miss out on a part of the life here that is at least as good as the traditional sea, sand, sun and sangria and could make you wealthier than money ever will.
To tell us about upcoming events of note and join in getting more involved in cultural events on the island, to tell us about events to which you are going or have been or let us know more about the types of BABIES 7, MUSIC 1 Anyone who was at Saturday night’s event cultural event you would like to hear After a little too much Baroque music will certainly want to see and hear more we were outside for Mendelssohn’s more about, email Melvyn Elphee on of the same (make a note of a concert Midsummer Nights Dream in the on 5th June 2015) and it was good to see CulturalCapital@TheCanaryNews.com Plaza. It was well conducted by the several young children getting involved.
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Spain ordered to
EU Court rules on discriminatory inheritance tax for non-residents The European Court of Justice declared in September that Spain’s Inheritance & Gift Tax is in violation of EU law by allowing differences in its treatment between residents and non-residents. The current tax legislation obliges non residents to essentially pay more than residents, as none of the tax advantages or deductions granted by the autonomous Spanish regions are available to those not resident there for tax purposes. The Court ruled in favour of the European Commission, which brought the case, saying that discrimination of this kind within the Spanish tax system constitutes a restriction on the freedom of capital movement. The case originated in July 2007 when the European Commission formally requested Spain take actions to achieve compliance with EU rules in regard to inheritance and gift tax rules, in particular, those related to non-residents. Despite the above-mentioned requests made by the EC, no amendments were made by Spain to legislation regarding this matter. As a consequence, in March 2012 the European Commission initiated a process against Spain before the EU’s Court of Justice. In Spain, Inheritance and tax are set by the state, from Madrid, but the responsibility for its collection and administration has long been devolved, meaning that different regions can establish their own rates, allowances and tax benefits. Most regional governments have established reductions and deductions applicable to their own residents. But those resident outside of each region, have been compelled to pay these taxes according to the State tax scale, which is most often higher than those current in the various autonomous regions. The judgement emphasises that benefits from tax relief and available reductions only apply in the case of an absolute connection with the territory of the regions themselves, without which non-residents are forced to carry a greater tax burden, which reduces the value of any inheritance or gift they might receive. Jurisprudence would then suggest that such a situation implies a restriction to the free movement of capital – whose protection is a pillar of European Union.
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The European Court concluded by saying that “the Kingdom of Spain has failed to comply with its obligations under article 63 of the Treaty, and article 40 of the Agreement on the European Economic Space of 2nd May 1992, by allowing different tax treatment of inheritances and gifts according to the place of residency.”
The judgement is mandatory for Spain as a member-state and cannot be appealed. An immediate consequence will be that the law must be changed in order to avoid further discrimination in the future. But that could well take time, as changing the current framework to comply with the verdict will be extraordinarily complex. One suggested and obvious solution would be to homogenize inheritance tax rules throughout the Spanish territory (applicable currently in all regions except Navarre and the Basque Country) thus significantly reducing the regulatory powers currently enjoyed by the autonomous regions. It has been further argued that other kinds of changes meant to avoid overcharging non-residents could lead to residents in the regions with fewer tax benefits, or none at all, feeling mistreated due to a perception of non-residents getting preferential treatment. Though the verdict contained no reference to the possibility for retrospective claims for taxes already paid, a Google search under “Spanish inheritance tax reclaim” reportedly already results in quite a few sites offering their services in that respect. So far as we here in the Canaries are concerned, there will hardly be any difference perceptible from the state set tax scale, as most benefits and reductions that had previously been introduced, as of 2008, have since been suppressed due to the recent economic and financial downturn. It is thought by many that the future trend will be to again further suppress the Inheritance Tax, perhaps altogether – and some say that may have been the case already but for the so-called “crisis” and the urgent financial needs of the various public administrations. [Only time will tell what Madrid will decide to do, but it is worth noting that the Spanish government has already this year been fined more than €80million for failing to fulfill its obligations through judgements at the ECJ, they will surely be eager to comply with this latest ruling as quickly as possible. Surely.] – ed For unbiased professional advice on property issues in Gran Canaria and The Canary Islands we recommend you speak to Cardenas Real Estate, who would be happy to point you in the right direction. Sources: Cárdenas-GranCanaria.info El País Economía, Expansion.com, Cinco Días, La Vanguardia.com Sign up for the Cárdenas Property Newsletter to receive the latest property offers in Gran Canaria directly by e-mail
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The Neighbours’ Las Lomas 16
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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria
A VOLUNTEER FOOD DISTRIBUTION
WHO THEY ARE:
A group of concerned persons who actively participate in improving the quality of life for their fellow citizens in the Municipality of Mogán, southwest of Gran Canaria. Established in 1993, the Neighbours’ Association of Las Lomas de Arguineguín works on finding viable solutions to different issues involving social problems, the environment, consumers’ rights, public health…… They coordinate with several other organizations such as the Norwegian Community of Mogán (made up of several wonderfully generous and caring groups and clubs), The Food Bank of Las Palmas (European Federation of Food Banks), the Irish Catholic Community of Puerto Rico, the Red Cross, the CAIPSHO Homeless Shelter of San Fernando, the Association for the Unemployed “Bregando Esperanzas”, and many others.
WHO DO THEY DO IT FOR: Persons residing in the municipality of Mogán who can document their need by means of unemployment papers, debts (mortgage, rent) and identify family members in their charge.
Currently they have more than 100 households on their list, amongst them are all ages, backgrounds, nationalities and each family is different in their needs. Some are retired with insufficient pensions, others are unor underemployed, ill, single mothers with no benefits or support, unable to work for lack of proper immigrant papers, etc.; some are homeless, addicts, ex-convicts…. Approximately 20% are nonSpanish citizens. All are verifiably in the greatest of need, having They have been distributing basic foods and other items to the slipped through the social net, often with only the volunteers netneedy families who approach them for help since 2008. They collect and distribute food and financial donations, clothing, furniture, work of Mogán standing between them and total destitution. household items of all types that are still in usable condition.
WHAT DO THEY DO:
WHEN DO THEY DO IT:
They also have a team of volunteers who offer language lessons free of charge to anyone interested, in an effort to improve their Every Tuesday afternoon between 5 pm and 8 pm they open their possibilities to find a job. They have over the years offered Spanish doors and sign up the families present then divide the food in stock for Foreigners, English, German and Norwegian lessons. amongst them. Anyone who wishes to is welcome to visit them to see their facilities and operations.
WHERE DO THEY DO IT:
Their operations are centred in Arguineguín where they share a public building belonging to the Town Council of Mogán. It is located next to the Kindergarten on Miguel Marrero street number 69, near the Tuesday Market.
HOW DO THEY DO IT:
With patience, persistence, caring, faith and kindness, they try to help anyone who approaches them to regain hope and stay healthy. Their goal is for families to return to independence as soon as possible.
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POINT FOR THE NEEDY OF MOGÁN MOGAN SOLIDARITY NETWORK
WE ALL NEED HELP SOMETIMES. THE PURPOSE OF THIS BLOG IS SOLIDARITY - YOU CAN OFFER YOUR HELP AND FIND OTHERS TO HELP YOU. AND IT IS ALSO IN YOUR HANDS THAT THIS MOGAN SOLIDARY NETWORK BLOG BECOMES KNOWN - PASS IT ON TO YOUR FRIENDS, PLEASE!
b.com/ProyectoVecinalDeAlimentosDeMogan
WHO HELPS THEM:
The Neighbours’ Association of Las Lomas de Arguineguín receive donations from many different groups and companies, in the form of both funds and food items. It is rarely enough and there is always need for more in the form of donations and assistance. They accept everything edible within sell-by date, if packaged (except fruit and vegetables which they will take, if still edible). They cannot accept prepared food unless in some kind of package or container. They are not permitted to distribute left-overs, unpackaged (except for produce) or expired foods.
HOW CAN YOU HELP:
They need volunteers to raise funds, gather food items, deliver donations, collect items such as bread from bakeries at the end of the day and freeze it to be distributed frozen on Tuesdays, to inform them of any available food that they could distribute, to help the needy recover their independence by means of worthwhile occupation. If you are looking for a cleaning-woman, a babysitter, a caretaker for the elderly, even part time or now and again, this can help someone to make some money that will help them feel productive and reduce their debts. They have an innovative programme they call “Adopt a Family” – individuals may commit to covering certain basic expenses for a family (any one or a specific one) such as their utilities, etc., for any amount you choose, or help by covering the expenses for schoolIf you wish to make a donation earmarked for a special need books for children, outfits for school, dental expenses, etc. (dental costs for a child, nappies, rent, eggs, potatoes, baby food, a specific family, transportation, etc.), please state it when makA group of retired ladies (the Hattedamene) are sponsoring baby ing your deposit or transfer. Better still, why not pop along and and children’s food for the over 100 children between newborn see what they do in person, they love to receive help from visitors and age 12, when there are available funds they purchase nappies for children under age 3. They are deeply grateful for your support!
They have a bank account: Banca Sabadell: Any amount is welcome! IBAN ES50 0081-1394-11-0001028108 & SWIFT BSABESBB
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Spanish Lesson 87
El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria
En el médico - at the doctor´s
By Theresa Coe
cough/nausea; estoy muy débil y cansado/a – I’m very weak and tired. No puedo dormir – I can´t sleep. Tengo Did you know that with your European health insurfiebre/diarrhea/ estrenimiento – I have a fever/diarrhea/ ance card and passport you can get a GP – médico de constipation. Creo que es una infección – I think that it´s cabecera – for six months here in Gran Canaria? Just take an infection. Necesito antibióticos – I need antibiotics. A your documents to the reception at your local Centro de prescription is una receta médica – a ‘medical recipe’. If Salud (health centre). In the south, at least two of the you know what you need, show them the box: normalGPs speak English if you need that. With a Spanish social mente tomo estos – I normally take these. Necesito más security number, you can make a doctor´s appointment calmantes (painkillers) or antidepresivos (antidepres24 hours a day by phoning 928 219 030 – otherwise you sants). request one at front desk. I need an appointment with Reactions and allergies my doctor: Necesito una cita con mi médico. Don’t forget your tarjeta sanitaria (medical card) when filling prescrip- If a drug doesn´t suit you, tell them so: no me sienta bien tions. la medicación. Me da sueño - it makes me sleepy. Me Going to Urgencias sienta mal en el estómago – it upsets my stomach. Me da nausea – it gives me nausea. Tengo alergia (a-LAIR-hia) al If you need help urgently, call 112 and tell them the naibuprofeno– I have an allergy to ibuprofen. ture of your emergency: mi marido necesita atención En la farmacia médica urgentemente. My husband needs medical attention urgently. Often people go straight to Urgencias Pills and tablets are pastillas or comprimidos, while (oor-HEN-sias) and if you don´t have Spanish social secu- cough syrup is jarabe para la tos. Quemaduras de sol is rity cover, you´ll need your passport and European Health sunburn, and deshidratación is of course dehydration. Insurance card to be treated. Estoy resfriado/a means I have a cold, or tengo la gripe: Talking about pain I have the flu. A skin rash is un sarpullido de piel, which you can show the pharmacist. For mosquito bites, ask for ¿Dónde le duele? Where does it hurt? Tengo mucho do- crema para picaduras or if you want protecting from the lor de cabeza –‘I have much pain of head’ i.e. a bad head- buggers: un protector anti-picaduras. The contraceptive ache. Tengo dolor de estómago/pecho/espalda/barriga (I pill is called la Píldora and can be bought in any farmahave stomach, chest, back or belly pain) Me duele cuando cia, but isn´t available on prescription. Ask for la version respiro/camino – it hurts me when I breathe/walk. genérica (the generic version) and you´ll save a fortune.
Symptoms and meds ¿Hace cuanto que vomitas? How long have you been vomiting? Estoy mareado (for a man) or mareada (for a woman) means I´m dizzy. ¿Qué síntomas tiene? What symptoms do you have? Tengo tos/nausea – I have a
Hear it pronounced As well as a great online dictionary for words or phrases, go to Spanishdict.com and click on a Spanish word to hear it pronounced correctly.
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with Theresa Coe Free! The Gran Canaria Language exchange Over 1,000 people take part in language exchange gatherings and conversation clubs around the island. We meet weekly in Playa del InglĂŠs, San Fernando, Arguineguin, Las Palmas, Valsequillo, Telde and Arucas. To find out more, check out: facebook. com/LEGintercambio or email me. For info about Spanish classes, to receive past lessons from this newspaper or to join the language exchange, email
theresacoe@gmail.com
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El Peri贸dico Ingl茅s de Gran Canaria
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2014
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Are you bummed out... or depressed?
At times everybody gets down in the dumps, but if life is consistently getting you down and your lows are making it hard to function, you may be depressed.
An estimated one in 10 persons in Europe suffer from depression, and other mood disorders are on the rise. “Ugh. I’m depressed.” We’ve all said it Sadness or downswings in mood are normal reactions to life’s struggles, setbacks, and disappointments. Many people use the word “depression” to explain these kinds of feelings, but depression is much more than just sadness.
Physical symptoms include: •
moving or speaking more slowly than usual
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change in appetite or weight (usually decreased, but sometimes increased)
•
constipation
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unexplained aches and pains
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lack of energy or lack of interest in sex (loss of libido)
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changes to your menstrual cycle
• disturbed sleep (for example, finding it hard to fall asleep at Some people describe depression as “living in a black hole” or havnight or waking up very early in the morning) ing a feeling of impending doom. However, some depressed people don’t feel sad at all—they may feel lifeless, empty, and apathetic, or men in particular may even feel angry, aggressive, and restless. Social symptoms include: Whatever the symptoms, depression is different from normal sad- • not doing well at work ness in that it engulfs your day-to-day life, interfering with your • taking part in fewer social activities and avoiding contact with ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and have fun. The feelings of friends helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness are intense and • neglecting your hobbies and interests unrelenting, with little, if any, relief.
What causes depression?
• having difficulties in your home and family life While the exact cause of depression isn’t known, a number of If you experience some of these symptoms for most of the day, things can be associated with its development. Generally, depres- every day for more than two weeks, you should seek help from sion does not result from a single event, but from a combination of your doctor or psychologist. recent events and other longer-term or personal factors. The road to depression recovery Are you depressed? There are many things that people with depression can do for If you identify with several of the following signs and symptoms, themselves to help them recover and stay well. The important and they just won’t go away, you may be suffering from clinical thing is finding the right treatment and the right health profesdepression. sional for the individual’s needs. Psychological symptoms include: •
continuous low mood or sadness
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feeling hopeless and helpless
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having low self-esteem
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feeling tearful
•
feeling guilt-ridden
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feeling irritable and intolerant of others
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having no motivation or interest in things
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finding it difficult to make decisions
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not getting any enjoyment out of life
•
feeling anxious or worried
Psychological treatments for depression Psychological treatments (also known as talking therapies) help people with depression to change negative patterns of thinking and improve their coping skills so they are better equipped to deal with life’s stresses and conflicts. Psychological therapies may not only help a person to recover, but can also help to prevent the depression from reoccurring.
Medical treatments for depression The main medical treatment for depression is antidepressant medication. There is a lot of misinformation about antidepressant medication and while there is no simple explanation as to how it works, it can be very useful in the treatment of moderate to severe depression (and some anxiety disorders). Antidepressant medication gets prescribed by your doctor or psychologist.
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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria
In the rustic heartland of Gran Canaria, and yet just ten minutes drive inland from the popular fishing-cum-tourist town of Arguineguín, is a little gem known to few more than the local farming communities and veteran caravan enthusiasts who come to enjoy our sub-tropical sunshine all the year through. El Pinillo is a world away from the bustling beaches of Puerto Rico and Playa del Inglés, situated beneath giant silver-barked laurel trees in an elegant little palm grove, they offer a hint of maroccon architecture with a high quality, traditional Canarian menu, specialising in stewed goat and local cheeses, as well as some of the best Gofio to be found anywhere in The Canary Islands. The staff are friendly and attentive and most of the food is prepared onsite from fresh ingredients, with unassuming prices that let you know this is a favourite haunt of locals for miles around. Forget your childhood memories of wet camp grounds and cold showers, El Pinillo offers the wonderful climate of the sub-tropics at a very affordable price, the ideal getaway with or without the kids, whether it be a weekend, a week, or a month of peaceful birdsong, a swimming pool and delicious dining with nothing more to do than relax and take a wander. Well worth the effort. Prices start as low as €5 per person in a tent, with cabins available that sleep up to six people from as little as €12 per person per day. For an upfront fee of as little as €25 per day you can even cover breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout your stay. The swimming pool is free to use, for those staying onsite, or just €3 for those visiting from the nearby coast, and you’ll find very few, if any, trying to secure the sun loungers from early in the morning (ve know who zey are!) Highly recommended, ask for Nino!
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REQUIREMENTS; To become a Flight Attendant on board Ryanair Aircraft you are required to meet the following requirements; No experience required. Minimum height 1.57cm Over 18 years of age. Would you like the chance to see some of the world’s top sights? Excellent English Would you like to work on board aircraft with one of the world’s biggest airlines, Ryanair through its official training and recruitment Good swimming skills partner Crewlink is holding a series of recruitment days as it seeks to Willingness to relocate within Europe hire cabin crew across Europe. WORKING CONDITIONS; Normal shift pattern Crewlink will be in Las Palmas on the 30th October 2014 in Spain. is 5 days working, 2 Days off followed by 5 days Ryanair is an Irish airline, the company was founded in 1985 by working, 3 days off with return to base daily. Irish businessman Tony Ryan and is headquartered in Dublin, they SELECTION PROCESS; There will be Presentacurrently have a fleet of 303 Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which covers tions, English tests and Interviews at the As1,600 routes connecting 186 destinations in 30 countries around Europe and is constantly expanding and through Crewlink the official sessment Days. To get more information and to participate at the assessment days canditraining and recruitment partner for Ryanair who have launched a dates are asked to register online at recruitment plan for an additional 1,450 jobs to be filled through assessment days being held across Europe. www.crewlink.ie.
EARN YOUR WINGS!
CREWLINK OFFICIAL TRANING AND RECRUITMENT PARTNER FOR RYANAIR SEEKS NEW CABIN CREW RECRUITS AT RECRUITMENT DAYS ACROSS SPAIN, OCTOBER 2014
Dublin, September 2014: Crewlink, an official training and recruitment partner for Ryanair, is holding a series of recruitment days as it seeks to hire cabin crew across Europe. Based in Ireland and Hahn (near Frankfurt, Germany), Crewlink has a team of highly qualified and dedicated professionals specialising in the recruitment of cabin crew for the airline industry for more than a decade. Crewlink has designed a unique ‘5 Stages -Qualification to Graduation’ process to provide cabin crew candidates with an enjoyable, highly specific training course over a six-week period so they become part of Europe’s best trained cabin crew and earn their wings to fly. Developed to meet trainees' specific needs and to provide all the support they will need, Crewlink operates exclusively at the Hahn Training Centre (HTC), a specialised facility near Frankfurt. Complete with residential accommodation, HTC ensures that training time is maximised to enhance trainees’ prospects of earning their wings and then a career with Ryanair. Crewlink is now seeking new recruits and will hold a recruitment days in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on the 30th October. Potential candidates should register their interest on the Crewlink.ie website Crewlink’s Head of Recruitment, Andrea Reger said: “Are you bored with the 9-to-5 job routine and want an exciting new career? Crewlink is giving you the chance to see some of the world’s top sights and world for one of the world’s biggest airlines. We’re holding a series of recruitment days around Europe as we look to hire the best cabin crew. So if you are looking for a high-flying career, log on to the Crewlink website and register today. “ Contact: Crewlink Ireland Ltd, Tel: +353 1 895 2065 Email: recruit@crewlink.ie
Here in The Canary Islands, we take tourism and recruitment very seriously, therefore we would like to hear from anyone who attends this event, the advertising for which has been paid, with extra sponsorship of this article having been freely donated by the publication in the interests of job creation. We want to hear your experiences, and to know more about the recruitment day itself and the information you recieve. All communications will be treated in the strictest confidence.
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Twitters from the Atlantic
El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria
© Barrie Mahoney
There’s Wind Up My Barranco
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.
Living in the Canary Islands, I quickly learned that most people living in Northern European countries have little time for our occasional complaints about the weather. After all, as an Ancient Greek once declared, we live in the “Fortunate Islands”; the weather is as near perfect as we can get in Europe, and survey after survey has proven that these islands are the healthiest places in the World to live. Does this mean that we never complain about the weather? Sadly not; after all, due to our early conditioning as Brits, others, as well as myself still complain about the weather from time to time. It is part of who we are, and an important part of our collective national psyche. It may be complaints about the weather being too hot, which it often is in August, too windy in July and even too wet - albeit for about three days in February. We live quite close to what is often billed as “The Windiest Place on Earth”. That place is the village of Pozo Izquierdo, home of the World Windsurfing Championships, and the place to go to watch spectacular waves and to enjoy the surf. Well, it would have to be windy there, wouldn’t it? After all, little or no wind would make for a very sad or non-existent World Windsurfing Competition. However, the downside is that sometimes the winds in the area are so strong that they carry sand, soil, dust and goodness knows what else to towns and villages across a large part of the island. Occasionally, the wind is too strong to even take Bella, our dog, for more than just a very short walk on the open land outside our village, and I have often considered buying her some goggles in order to cope with the sand and dust, as it bites into our eyes as we walk. It is often challenging to face and walk against these strong winds, and I have occasionally seen children and small
adults swept off their feet, as well as the occasional vehicle overturned on our busy motorway. This year has been exceptionally bad for strong winds, with sand and soil piled up against the sides of properties and the edges of roads after a particularly windy period. With the sand and dust, also comes a range of bacteria, which often results in breathing disorders and eye infections. Admittedly, it is only for a short period of the year, and is forgotten as quickly as it came. Readers may well be asking why we chose to live in such a windy spot on the island, and living in windy areas is not for the faint hearted. However, recognising that there is no such thing as perfection in life, and after trying out several locations on the island over a few years, we came to the conclusion that we would much rather face the refreshing, albeit sometimes violent, winds on the east coast, rather than being cooked alive in the south of the island during July and August. High temperatures may be great for a holiday, but I am still very happy to exchange excessive temperatures for cooling breezes. As far as weather is concerned, we are very fortunate and have little to complain about. However, as a Brit, it is important to retain our national identity and complain about the weather from time to time. If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www. barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander.com or read his book, ‘Letters from the Atlantic’ (ISBN: 9780992767136). Available as paperback, as well as on Kindle, iBooks and Google Play Books.
iPhone/iPad and Android Apps: ExpatInfo, CanaryIsle and CanaryGay now available. © Barrie Mahoney
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25
Runways or Community?
Visitors to the island of Gran Canaria are often surprised to learn that the island hosts the third largest airport in Spain. Due to the rapidly increasing popularity of the island as an attractive and successful tourist destination, the airport has, until recently, been close to maximum capacity. Over the last few years, a programme of refurbishment, redevelopment and extension has taken place to ensure that the airport retains its prestige position and meets the needs of the island. Indeed, over the last few days, an impressive new terminal building has been opened, but the one thing that is still missing is a second runway, which is needed in order to absorb increased capacity of flights, as well as larger aircraft. A second runway has been planned since 2001, but the downside was that it would necessitate the demolition of an entire Canarian village, Ojos de Garza. Needless to say, the villagers were not too impressed with the plans and embarked upon a series of disruption for many years in an attempt to persuade developers that they should build the second runway elsewhere. On a small island, the choices are limited, but the villagers were determined to ensure that their views were fully taken into account. Legal battles, hunger strikes, marches and disobedience has followed over the years, with the 5000 villagers remaining united against both the threats and temptations thrown at them. Most of the residents refused to sell their properties to the developers since it would be difficult to buy new homes on the island. They wished to remain as a community and stay together. Since the end of the Second World War, the UK has seen social problems as a result of mistakes made by well meaning planners and architects who demolished what were regarded as terraced â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;slumsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in favour of high-rise flats. Many such monstrosities were built in cities across the UK, as well as in other parts of Europe. As well
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as disregarding the need for green space, and play areas for children, many planners forgot that community cohesion is the essential component for any society to thrive. Disrupting neighbourhoods and tearing whole communities apart from their neighbours, extended families and friends may have made economic and commercial sense at the time, but failed to take account of community needs and the provision of mutual support. For many years, the people of Ojos de Garza have been unable to move home, because no one wanted to buy their properties. Mortgages could not be obtained from the banks since the properties were deemed to be worthless. Thankfully, their determination and perseverance has forced the planners and authorities to think again. A solution has finally been found, with developers agreeing to rebuild their homes in a new location, two kilometres away from their existing village. The airport management company, Aena, has agreed to build an entirely new village, which will be a copy of the original, and both locals and the management of the airport are happy with the arrangement. After years of indecision and argument, work on the new runway can begin and is scheduled to be completed by 2025, but only after the villagers of Ojos de Garza get their new village and their existing homes can finally be demolished. Yes, the airport does need another runway, but at what cost to family and community? These villagers have demonstrated that the value of community, which is very much an intrinsic part of the Canarian and Spanish psyche, is important to them and that their views deserve to be taken into account. Maybe other towns and cities in Europe could learn a little from their example, and the mistakes of tearing communities apart in the past, at the whim of architects and developers, will not be repeated. Š Barrie Mahoney .
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The 1st Maspalomas Walk Against Cancer
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A group of ladies headed up by Ms Shirley Macdonald of Enduria Travel and The Travel Shop have this year decided to hold a solidarity walk against Breast Cancer on October 18th 2014. The walk is suitable for all fitness levels, all ages and genders. They will be meeting at Maspalomas Park (Parque Sur de
Maspalomas) near Sonnenland, south of Gran Canaria on October 18, between 16: 00-16: 30 for the initial preparation of their walk, which will start at 17.00. The route will be from the park to the beach of Maspalomas near Meloneras.
The council of Maspalomas, very kindly, have agreed to close the roads for them to walk
El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria
safely. The strongest participants, perhaps, might like to go the extra mile and make it more fun by making it a “three leg” (two people walking together) or indeed going in fancy dress. Water and a pink t-shirt will be provided in the park on the day of the walk. They are asking for a fee for each participant of €12 to register, the full amount will be donated to the ACCM Breast Cancer Association and can be paid on the same day, but they ask that you register with them before 11 October to help with the approximate number of participants and preparation of enough water and t-shirts for everyone. They do have sponsorship forms so that you can ask your friends and family members to support the initiative. It will be a fun day and we sincerely hope you will join us in this noble cause. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, and we look forward to walking together with you on the 18th.
Kay´s Corner
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Carrot, Egg or Coffee Bean
A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed that as one problem was solved, a new one arose.
The carrot went in strong, hard and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior. But, after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After Her mother took her to the kitchen. She they were in the boiling water, the water did filled three pots with water and placed each not change them so much as they changed on a high fire. Soon the pots came to a boil. the water! In the first, she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and the last she placed “Which are you?” she asked her daughter. ground coffee beans. She let them sit and “When adversity knocks on your door, how boil, without saying a word. do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?” In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems placed them in a bowl. She then pulled the strong, but with pain and adversity? Do I eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then wilt and become soft and lose my strength? she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a Am I the egg that starts with a malleable bowl. heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have Turning to her daughter, she asked, “Tell a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a me, what you see?” financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell “Carrots, eggs, and coffee,” she replied. look the same, but on the inside am I bitter She brought her closer and asked her to feel and tough with a stiff spirit and a hardened heart? the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. She then asked her to take an Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, actually changes the hot water, the very she observed a hard-boiled egg. Finally, she circumstance that brings the pain. When asked her to sip the coffee. The daughter the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance smiled as she tasted its rich aroma. and flavour of your life. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hours are the darkest and Her mother explained that each of these trials are their greatest, do you elevate to objects had faced the same adversity -- boil- another level? ing water -- but each reacted differently. The daughter then asked, “What does it mean?”
The question is then asked; “How do you handle adversity? Are you changed by your surroundings or do you bring life and flavour, to them? “ I think this is not all black and white for people who suffer with clinical depression or other forms of mental illness. At the time they don’t want to make any of these choices...they are suffering so much they probably feel they are drowning in that boiling water, and self help won’t work for them at this dreadful time. However, in terms of everyday life not coping too well, feeling the heat - “just a bit down and depressed”...which of course bears no resemblance to diagnosed mental illness, this story may be a great help to some - encouraging and helping them, wherever it is possible, to make that choice...carrot, egg or coffee bean? I know someone who is going through a very hard time at the moment. She is a friend who has brought a lot of fragrance into my own life. While it may not be prudent to share this story with her right now, I have just put the coffee beans in the percolator, and am picking up the phone as I write to invite her round for a cuppa, a big hug and a chat. Who knows - this could well be the start of helping her change how she looks at her present situation and elevate to another level. A problem shared...... Oh boy - the exquisite aroma of that coffee just hit me! Must go; my friend is at the door. Kay Owen September 2014.
Betrayed 28
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News, Views & Sunshine
Part Six
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El Periódico Inglés de Gran Canaria
by Jeannie van Rompaey
One day, weeks, maybe months later, Gavin rang me.
and she grew fond of me.
‘Please, Ellen, don’t put the phone down. Something’s happened.’ He sounded upset. There was something he had to tell me. Alone. ‘Please let me come over to the flat. Just this once.’
I got to know Queenie better too. I found out about her dependence on gin. She wasn’t a drunk. Nothing like that. But she didn’t seem able to manage without imbibing three or four gin and tonics each evening and watched the clock with keen anticipation until six o’clock when she allowed herself the first one. It soon became clear that she preferred to drink alone and it occurred to me that she might be worrying about Gavin or brooding about something else. In either case she didn’t confide in me.
I could hear the anguish in his voice. Reluctantly I agreed.
We sat on either side of my little living room like the stuffed toys I kept on the shelves either side of my bed. His face was grey. His eyes had lost their spark. ‘You are ill,’ I whispered.
‘How perceptive you are, Ellen. Yes, it’s my heart. A rare condition apparently as yet undiagnosed. I have to go to London for tests and possibly treatment. I’m combining it with a business trip and could be away for six months. Possibly longer. Will you keep an eye on Barbara for me while I’m away? I would like to think of you there, in my house, the place where you really belong.’ I promised. My head was spinning, my thoughts racing. His house, the place where I really belong, Tests in London, possibly an operation, Away for six months, possibly longer. What if the illness proves incurable? What then? I cannot blame him for what happened next. He behaved like a perfect gentleman, keeping a distance between us while he told me his news. I was the one who crossed the space that divided us. A reflex action. Something I had to do. I put my arms around him and showered him with little kisses all over his face and neck. The lovemaking that followed was like nothing I had experienced before…. My affair with Gavin before I knew he was married was one thing, but this deliberate move across the room to take him in my arms another. The former had been his sin, the latter mine.
When drinking she encouraged me to keep Barbara company in another room. I was only too happy to keep Barbara away from what I considered the bad example set by her mother. Every Sunday I went to church with Queenie and prayed that the specialists in London would find a cure for Gavin’s illness and that he would come back safe and well. I’m sure she did the same. He returned at last. There was to be no operation, just carefully monitored medication. The consultant had told him that, with care, he could live a normal life. ‘Cause for celebration,’ Gavin said and, to my shame and pleasure, we celebrated in the usual manner. And I understood, perhaps for the first time, how completely my life was tied to his. More business trips followed. They were not as much fun as I might imagine, Gavin assured me, as he showed me photographs of faraway places and related anecdotes about amusing things that had happened to him. Desdemona could not have been more enthralled by Othello’s adventures than I was by Gavin’s. On his return from each trip, the old passions arose again. I hated myself for my frailty but knew I would always be there for Gavin when he needed me. And for Queenie too.
As we grew older, there were fewer moments spent alone. The passion we once shared was reduced to a discreet exchange of After he’d gone, I lay in the bed where we’d made love, exhila- looks at the Anglo Club or at the villa in Palmeral Viejo. These rated by what had taken place, but at the same time, filled with subtle exchanges served to remind me that Gavin still loved me, shame. I knew it must never happen again. Never. I told myself as I did him. I was pleased he was going away. A respite for our passion to No regrets. Guilt, yes, guilt I will live with for the rest of my life. cool. I spent time with Queenie and Barbara as promised, in the villa in Palmeral Viejo. Queenie liked having me around. She found me useful. I was commissioned to take Barbara shopping for new shoes, to the beach, to the fiestas, to the carnival, to supervise her homework, to do all the jobs Queenie didn’t enjoy. I was only too pleased to do so. I grew to love Gavin’s daughter
Guilt I will take with me to the grave. But no regrets. None at all. Gavin was my life, my love, My Mr. Right. Even though he was spoken for long before I met him.
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2014
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For more information about the Author Jeannie van Rompaey please visit her website at JeannievanRompaey.com You can also find her on Facebook
Part Seven I change into a black skirt and blouse and wrap a black shawl around my shoulders. As an afterthought, I pin on the amethyst brooch. Looking like a Canarian widow in mourning, I catch a bus to the funeral parlour.
Back on my feet, on my way to the kitchen to make a cup of tea, I glance up at the wayward blind and shake my head. I switch on the kettle but the water remains cold. The element seems to have packed up. I’ll heat the water in a saucepan. That’s what most folk do here anyway. When I get round to it, I’ll buy a new kettle, but there is no hurry. I can manage perfectly well without it.
Gavin is not here. The figure in the coffin claiming to be Gavin is wearing his second best suit, the blue pinstripe. Maybe Queenie is keeping the best one to sell at the church bazaar. The hair has been scraped back, the eyelids closed, denying As I wait for the water to boil, I remember what it is that’s nigme a last look at those bluer than blue eyes. His soul has flown gling me. Something odd about Deborah Fairbanks. She was away. dressed in a black coat and hat, but, as she pushed open the door of the sala, I saw a flash of colour at her wrist. Bangles. Gavin would have laughed at that sentiment. He didn’t believe Multi-coloured bangles. Like mine. Identical. A coincidence? in a soul or an after-life. Or in God. I am not sure I do either. I Must be. go to church to keep Queenie company. The Sunday morning ritual makes a little outing and the glass of wine and bread and Hand shaking, I drop a tea bag in a mug and pour on the boiling cheese served afterwards in the church porch provide an exwater. It splashes over my wrist. Damn and double damn! If it’s cuse to exchange a few words with other British residents. Ac- not one thing it’s another. First that bloody blind and now I’ve quaintances, not friends. Queenie is the only person I can truly gone and scalded myself. Tears threaten. I force them back. call a friend. Gavin never went to church but he will be obliged Bangles of red, violet, emerald, silver and gold , to be there for his funeral. Queenie will make sure of that. I want to believe that Gavin and I will be reunited in some kind dancing in front of my eyes of heaven for true lovers when I pass on, but if so, where will catching the light, Queenie be? It is all too puzzling. No, better to let Gavin live on in my mind, rather than worry about some possible reunion in shiny metallic rings a place that may or may not exist. I put my hands together and jangling, say a little prayer for him. It seems the right thing to do. mocking me, As I’m leaving, I notice another woman arrive, dressed very much as I am, in black. Another mourner. Looking back over my making a nonsense of my life, of my love. shoulder, I see something familiar about the way the woman I must put this out of my mind. Keep control. holds herself, those slightly hunched shoulders and the tentative way she trots along in her high-heeled shoes. It’s Deborah Damn the tea. I don’t need it. I wrap a bandage round the burn Fairbanks, one of the members of the Anglo Club. Just as I am and set off for Queenie’s house. Even though it’s after six and wondering if someone close to her has died, I see her slip into she will no doubt be having a little tipple I’m sure she’d like the sala I’ve just left. Like me, she has come to pay her last re- company this evening. And even if she doesn’t it can’t be good for her to drink alone tonight. I might even succumb to one myspects to Gavin. How nice of her. self. Barbara might be there of course but for me that would be Back at my flat, I rest a hand in the small of my back and lower a bonus. Three grieving women together, having a little drink. myself into my armchair. The visit to the funeral parlour has taken it out of me. There’s a nagging thought at the back of my Something to do. Something to take my mind off. mind that I cannot quite make out. I can’t settle.
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2014
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The English Newspaper for Gran Canaria
T he C anary N ews . com
News, Views & Sunshine
October
2014
31