19 # 01 November 2013
dining guide • business & finance • sport & leisure • history • property • community
the gibraltar magazine
gibraltar the
November 2013 Vol. 19 # 01 FREE
Fatal Forgery Women on Top
The Only Way is Up! The Ultimate Guitar Hero
The Wild Wild West Talk About Trusts Tackling the Bullies Getting the Balance Right
A Russian Love Destination
Deliver your business to the world with the International Specialists. ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙ That‘s the Speed of Yellow www.dhl.co.uk/express Matrix Logistics Solutions Ltd (Sole DHL Gibraltar Representative) Unit 36 Harbours Deck, New Harbours, Gibraltar Tel: 200 72210 Fax: 200 78874 Email: GIBSN@dhl.com Opening hours Mon-Fri 08.30-18.00
tax planning • corporate & commercial • FINANCIAL SERVICES • funds • litigation • PROPERTY • trusts
TRUST TAKES PATIENCE. REWARD TAKES TRUST. Whatever or wherever the challenge, we can provide the solutions. The administration and management of trusts, whether private or commercial are executed by our wholly owned subsidiary, Line Trust Corporation Limited. They are regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in Gibraltar (which, in itself, is an offshore advantage) and can exploit the multi-jurisdictional and global expertise of Hassans and their many specialist areas. Discretionary, fixed interest, life interest or asset protection trusts; any of which can be tailored to an individual or company’s needs. Put your trust in us. We’re a trustworthy partner to have at your disposal.
Hassans – International Lawyers
www.gibraltarlaw.com 57/63 Line Wall Road, PO Box 199, Gibraltar · Tel (+350) 200 79000 · Fax (+350) 200 71966 · Email business@hassans.gi
A4 TRUST ‘BIRD’ ad – 297mm x 210mm + 3mm bleed
Shine_GibMag_Gimme5.pdf
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
1
9/18/13
1:00 PM
Success Your success is our sole aim. There are no personal bonus schemes – and there never have been. jyskebank.com
JYSke Bank (GiBralTar) lTd. RIVATE ANKING ÑÐ AIN TREET OX ËÎÍ IBRALTAR EL ÝÍÏÊ ÌÊÊ ÑÌÑÒÌ AX ÝÍÏÊ ÌÊÊ ÑÐÑÒÌ INFOÀJYSKEBANK GI WWW JYSKEBANK GI
Jyske Bank (Gibraltar) Ltd. is licensed by the Financial Services Commission, Licence No. FSC 001 00B. Services and products are not available to everybody, for instance not to residents of the US.
130314_GibMag_A122ann1EN_A4.indd 1
14-03-2013 12:21:28
19 # 01 November 2013
dining guide • business & finance • sport & leisure • history • property • community
the gibraltar magazine
raltar
g
ibraltar the
Fatal Forgery Women on Top
The Only Way is Up! The Ultimate Guitar Hero
November 2013 Vol. 19 # 01 FREE
The Wild Wild West Talk About Trusts Tackling the Bullies Getting the Balance Right
A Russian Love Destination
19 # 01 November 2013 Cover: The first rain of the season Photo: Volrab Vaclav
The Gibraltar Magazine is published monthly by Guide Line Promotions Ltd PO Box 1124, La Bayuca, 21 Turnbull’s Lane, Gibraltar Tel/Fax: (+350) 200 77748
info@thegibraltarmagazine.com
Publisher/Editor: Andrea Morton Forde Copyright © 2013 Guide Line Promotions Limited. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written consent of The Gibraltar Magazine.
www.TheGibraltarMagazine.com Magazine & website archived by the British Library @gibmag
contents
19 # 01
Business & Finance 8 Business & Finance Guide 9 Talk About Trusts 12 E-money Interest Grows 14 HR: Tackling the Bullies 16 The Wild Wild West 18 25th Anniversary for
Arts & Leisure 32 Having an Adventure Plus 60 Masters of Illusion
20 22
24 26
28
30 84
NatWest From the Beginning... Harrogate: The Business Focused Business School A Russian Love Destination? Regulation: Getting the Balance Right Money Laundering Expert Writes Novel KPMG Recruits Photo Call: Gibraltar Day in London
Past Revisited 70 Stars Hitched in Gibraltar 74 Gibraltar in World Traveller’s
78
Books Time Travel with the Trovadores
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Health & Well-being 48 Health Directory 49 Vive la différence 50 Dr Vricella Answers Our 51 54
Questions 5-Star Pampering Women on Top
Regulars 76 Puzzle Page 82 Question of the Month 94 Around Town Appetite 86 What’s Cooking? 88 Food & Drink Directory 92 Desert Island Wines Information 66 What’s On November 68 City Centre Map 96 Clubs & Activities 98 Gibraltar Information
62
features 56 62 72
The Ultimate Guitar Hero Maiju’s Fire & Ice The Poppy Appeal
home file 34 36 38 40 42 44
Let there be (better) light Home Help with Meme Residential rents: the only way is up Property Directory Ask The Architect Introducing Agent Sammy
38
business
directory
financial services
accountants
business services
2013 Gibraltar
33 Main Street Gibraltar
business services
Tel: +350 200 76173 E-mail: gib@SovereignGroup.com
Specialists in Document Imaging and Filing Systems, Microfilm Bureau Services, Information Management and Consultancy, CD-ROM Titles, Computer Hardware & Software
9A Cooperage Lane 200 77386 sales@bsgcomp.com
Dealers for 1st Floor, Unit F4, Europa Business Centre Tel: 200 42723 Fax: 200 40612
Computer / network giving you a headache? Call us for a swift, reliable cure. 17 Convent Place Tel: 200 4-999-1 Fax: 200 4-999-2 www.pc-clinic-gib.com Email: info@pc-clinic-gib.com • Support Contracts • Network Installation & Troubleshooting • Web Design • PC Repairs, Upgrades & Construction • PC Maintenance
186 Main Street, PO Box 453, Gibraltar Tel: +350 200 61053 Fax: + 350 200 60953 www.corinthian.gi
legal services Hassans Tel: 200 79000 www.gibraltarlaw.com ISOLAS Tel: 200 78363 www.gibraltarlawyers.com
Micro Business Systems Ltd
PO Box 661, Unit 102, New Harbours Walk, New Harbours, Gibraltar Tel: (+350) 200 42723 Fax: 200 40612 Email: sales@mbs.gi www.mbs.gi Providers of Records Management Services, Systems & Solutions since 1989
Did you know, we have a Gibraltar messenger service too? We collect, deliver... and wait and return if required.
Save yourself time and money, call us
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
finance
business
talk about
Trusts words | Ian Le Breton
Last month’s column may have raised reader’s anxiety levels by emphasising the importance of forward planning — in particular the preparation of a will — and setting out some of the problems that could arise from a failure to undertake this simple, but crucial, step. In doing so I touched briefly upon the concept of a trust — sometimes known as a “living will” — and promised to explore this more thoroughly next time around. As I head a trust company licensed in Gibraltar, I am often asked to explain what it is we “trustees” do and what trusts can be used for. I always have to answer that although the basic legal concept is incredibly simple, trusts are so endlessly flexible and varied in their application as to defy any “one size fits all” answer. So let’s start with the concept. A trust is quite simply a relationship whereby property is transferred from one person to another — known as the trustee — who holds the property solely for the benefit of specified people or objects — known as the beneficiaries. A legal word for transfer is “settle”, hence the transferor is usually referred to as the “settlor” and the trust is often referred to as a “settlement”. This relationship is documented in a trust deed that sets out the terms and conditions under which the trustee must hold and administer the trust assets. The deed will also set out the rights and interests of the beneficiaries. In other words, setting up a trust during one’s lifetime is very similar to making a will, with the trustee fulfilling the role of an executor. With careful planning, this can eradicate the unnecessary costs and delays of probate, as well as providing potential benefits in respect of taxation, asset protection or enhanced confidentiality. For all these reasons, the use of trusts as a means of holding and passing on family estates — even those of a modest value — has increased dramatically in recent years. Gibraltar boasts a large number of trust companies, which employ several hundred people locally, and is at the forefront of best practice in
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
the area of trusts. It was, for instance, one of the first international finance centres to introduce the regulation and supervision of trust service providers. Local trust companies are regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission. Those of us involved in the industry — whether we work for larger international groups such as the one for which I toil daily, or
smaller “boutique” style firms — are obliged by law to follow the same rules and employ best practice at all times. But when and where did the trust originate? Time to dust off the history books. What did the Romans ever do for us? Well, not surprisingly Roman law had a well-developed version of a trust. Indeed the Latin word used for this type of arrangement was
Gibraltar boasts a large number of trust companies, which employ several hundred people locally, and is at the forefront of best practice in the area of trusts
business
finance
fidecommissum, which is very close to the modern Spanish word for a trust — un fidecomiso. However, the Roman version dealt with “trusts” created by a will so these were used to deal with someone’s estate only when they had passed on. For the “life time” version we must fast forward to the time of the crusades. It is not perhaps surprising that at a time when people with substantial properties and rights were setting out on incredibly dangerous campaigns of a long duration, they would need a legal mechanism that would allow them to place their assets into someone else’s safekeeping during their lifetime – or inter vivos to use the correct legal term. The difficulties arose if and when the knight returned from the crusades and wanted his property — perhaps even his wife — restored to him. Beset by problems arising from these disputes, a whole raft of law and practice developed so that the concept of transferring assets into “trust” was accepted on the basis that the “trustee” or person to whom property had been transferred was in fact only holding it on behalf of others — the beneficiaries. From such roots, the trust remains a predominantly “Anglo Saxon” concept that is recognised primarily in jurisdictions where the system of Common Law applies. It is no surprise that beyond the UK itself, trusts have prospered in its former colonies — the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand — as well as in its former and current dependencies and territories around the world. Gibraltar trust companies therefore compete with firms in the Channel Islands and Isle of Man, together with further flung jurisdictions in the Caribbean and Pacific. In countries that operate under Civil Law Codes, such as Spain, the concept of “giving away” assets — or at the very least surrendering control of them to trustees — can prove impossible to accept. Settlors often seek to exert influence — or control — over the transferred assets once the settlement has taken place. In
Gibraltar and other common law jurisdictions this is not permitted because it could lead to the trust being declared a “sham” and forcibly unwound by a court at a later date. Various options have been developed to deal with this problem for clients in civil law countries. The most common alternative is the “foundation” which for many years was to be found in only a few jurisdictions such as Liechtenstein and Panama. In recent years though, we have seen robust, up to date foundation legislation enacted in several British overseas territories, including Guernsey and Isle of Man. Although the end results may appear similar, foundations are materially different from trusts and I will discuss them in more detail as part of a future article. As so often with financial services, a particular segment comes with its own confusing jargon and acronyms. Earlier I set out the different parties to a trust arrangement as I did last month when describing how a will should be executed. Some terms are the same; beneficiaries exist under both wills and trusts. Under a will however, terms such as testator and executor are used rather than settlor and trustee. Other terms you might come across when reading about trusts (as I am sure you will now do) can refer to the type of trust — irrevocable, discretionary or perhaps for charitable purposes. If trustees fail to comply with the trust
A trust cannot be used to place your assets out of the reach of legitimate creditors such as an aggrieved spouse or business associate
deed this can lead to a “breach of trust” and as you would expect with any regulated financial services business, legal remedies will apply. A particularly dangerous area is where some illegal intent exists — perhaps related to an imminent divorce or a pending legal case where someone is being sued. A trust cannot be used to place your assets out of the reach of legitimate creditors such as an aggrieved spouse or business associate. Trusts are used for many purposes and in the past I have written at some length on overseas pension schemes including QROPS and QNUPS. In both cases the underlying schemes are based on a type of trust that sets out the way in which specific types of pensions are established and managed. There are several other examples which demonstrate that the original crusade era concept is still very much under development as further uses are found for trusts. This is a complex area so if considering whether the use of any type of trust might be suitable for you, as always professional advice should be sought at the outset. It can also pay to do your own research. Trust services are not necessarily cheap but they can be highly effective so it may be money well spent. As in other areas, we are very fortunate here in Gibraltar because we benefit from good trust legislation, an effective legal system and a wide range of world-class trust companies and professionals. Trust me. n
Ian Le Breton
Honorary Role For Gibraltar’s Mayor His Worship the Mayor of Gibraltar Anthony Lima has been granted a rare honorary role by the Queen. He was approved an appointment as an Honorary Commander Royal Naval Reserve by order of Her Majesty the Queen and is the first person outside of the UK to be granted such a prestigious honour. His Worship was the final Commanding Officer of HMS Calpe the then Headquarters of the Royal Navy Reserve, it is therefore fitting that he will be affiliated with the Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron and his mentor and point of contact will be Commander British Forces. An announcement of his position was made by CBF Commodore John Clink during Naval tradition ‘Slice the Mainbrace’, where a toast to Prince George was made by His Excellency The Governor. n
10
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
isolas-house-gibmag:Layout 1 8/9/13 10:41 AM Page 1
www.gibraltarlawyers.com
Moving House? We’ll take care of all the legal matters to help make your move as easy as possible Contact Sarah Miles at sarah.miles@isolas.gi Portland House Glacis Road PO Box 204 Gibraltar Tel +350 2000 1892 www.gibraltarlawyers.com
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2013
11
18 years
Celebrate Good Times... The Gibraltar Magazine was 18 last month (this issue is Vol. 19 No. 01). It happened quietly in October 2013 — no fanfare, no special issue, no pages dedicated to ourselves. It’s true, we had a bottle of bubbly in the office when the edition arrived, and toasted our baby’s coming of age. It was a proud moment, but we were already working on this issue by then, and editorials for December and January were been laid out. When we set up the first magazine here 26 years ago people told us it would never work. Businesses in Gibraltar didn’t need to advertise, and they wouldn’t like it. They did, and they did. We’d run out of stories, there weren’t enough people to interview. We haven’t, and there are. So now we have a thriving magazine, and a thriving magazine scene locally and that’s a good thing. Our 26 years of articles have documented the lives
of many of Gibraltar’s finest who have since died, and each edition stands as a record of a month in time. We didn’t set out to do this, we had no grand scheme of things. We just love what we do, the people we meet, the place we live and the magazine we produce. Thank you to every single person who has contributed, been featured or photographed over the years, or placed an ad and allowed this to happen. Thank you for being a part of our story. n
E-money: Interest Grows in Gibraltar The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (FSC) has been at the forefront of implementing effective regulation of electronic money (E-money) solutions for some time and is now working to build on this regulatory knowledge to support future growth in this important area of Gibraltar’s financial sector. As part of this drive, the Gibraltar FSC will be further developing its internal “centre of excellence” in the E-money sector. It has also confirmed that it is reflecting this development in respect of E-money operators within, what will now be known as, the
gibraltar the
n ADVERTISE
The quality of a magazine reflects on the businesses that advertise within it. The Gibraltar Magazine is Gibraltar’s quality magazine — packed with great, readable content. We don’t have pushy sales people, so get in touch if you have a business or strategy to promote in Gibraltar. We will explain your options within your budget and help you with artwork if you need us to. We are passionate about what we do and about our home, Gibraltar.
n GET INVOLVED
If you are an artist with an exhibition, or a club or charity with an event coming up, we’d love to hear from you. This is a community magazine and there is no VIP area. Everyone is welcome to contribute so drop a line, send an email or phone us.
n GET IN TOUCH
We’d love to hear from you. Sometimes we get a bit lonely in our office, and we like to get letters, phone calls and emails with your feedback and photos. We might even publish the best so keep them coming. This is your magazine so get involved. Email: info@thegibraltarmagazine.com Tel: 200 77748
12
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
finance
“Banking, E-money and Investment Services Division” demonstrating that E-money solutions are now as mainstream as other financial products. In close cooperation with the Government of Gibraltar, the FSC is keen, by the continued development of a robust but responsive regulatory environment, to encourage providers of E-money products (pre-paid cards, mobile telephone payments and other money transfer products) to establish in Gibraltar and to make their products available to the local market as well as internationally. Heidi Bocarisa, Head of the Banking, EMoney and Investment Services Division commented; “E-money in all its forms provides opportunities for the financial community to offer services to those who have previously been excluded from historic banking services. Additionally, with the increasing pressure to innovate and adapt, new technologies now provide innovative solutions to other age old problems. Cash, and the handling of it, can be cumbersome and expensive for financial institutions and businesses. It has also become a barrier to an effective economic system. We believe that Gibraltar is ideally located to expand its offering of well regulated and competitive solutions to this need”. Daniel Spier Chairman of the Gibraltar Electronic Money Association (GEMA) commented:
“As an Association and a Business active in the E-money sector, we welcome this move by the FSC. We believe Gibraltar is an opportune jurisdiction within Europe from which to offer E-money services given the significant growth experienced within the industry.” n
“
We believe that Gibraltar is ideally located to expand its offering of well regulated and competitive solutions to this need
”
Micro Business Systems Ltd
PO Box 661, Unit 102, New Harbours Walk, New Harbours, Gibraltar Tel: (+350) 200 42723 Fax: (+350) 200 40612 Email: sales@mbs.gi www.mbs.gi
Providers of Records Management Services, Systems & Solutions since 1989 Digital Document Scanning Any document size up to A0, network and standalone access/retrival Document Microfilming Any document size up to A0, network and standalone access/ retrival. Long term retention over 100 years File Colour Coding & Barcode Tracking Software Eliminates misplaced files for ever! High Density Filing Systems Huge range of filing supplies and consumables Archival Storage Services Long term and secure. Includes retrieval and collection of records.
Gibraltar’s Leading Data and Records Management
Main Dealers
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
13
HR issues Dignity at Work Now (DAWN) a charity in Gibraltar who gives free and confidential advice, support and information on how to deal with bullying. Dignity at Work Now describes bullying as: Persistent unwelcome behaviour, mostly using unwarranted or invalid criticism, nit-picking, fault-finding, also exclusion, isolation, being singled out and treated differently, being shouted at, humiliated, excessive monitoring, having verbal and written warnings imposed, and much more. In the workplace, bullying usually focuses on distorted or fabricated allegations of underperformance. The purpose of bullying is to hide inadequacy.
Examples of bullying: ✘ Social exclusion ✘ Withholding information ✘ Physical isolation ✘ Denied rights/opportunities ✘ Negation of information or
Tackling the Bullies Q
words | Leah Carnegie, The HR Dept
14
✘ Work interfered ✘ Excessively supervised ✘ Small errors exaggerated ✘ Unjustly disciplined ✘ Continued and exaggerated criticism ✘ Efforts devalued
I have been approached by a member of staff who believes her colleague is being bullied. What advice should I give her? Sometimes, the workplace can feel a lot like school: Full of cliques, gossip, and passive-aggressive behaviour. Bullying has been a hot topic lately and, sadly, adults are
recourses
✘ Inducement to errors
not immune to it. Bullies certainly exist in the workplace, though they aren’t quite as obvious as they were in school. They don’t go around pushing people and steal-
✘ Threats of getting fired ✘ Privacy breached
ing lunch money. But their torment can be just as destructive. From 18th to 22nd November it is anti-bullying week, aimed at increasing awareness. We met with
✘ Spreading malicious rumours ✘ Insults, shouted at ✘ Made a fool of ✘ Unreasonable time or workload
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
HR issues The “bully” might have something to say about your performance or your appearance; but that is their problem and not yours Here are a few tried and tested dent to your immediate supervisor recommendations on how to help or Human Resources. Describe what is happening in you handle workplace bullying: detail and explain how the situation is impacting your ability to do your work. It’s important to stress Recognise What Is Happening that you want to find a productive, First things first: recognise that comfortable way of addressing the you are being bullied and that it situation. is by no means your fault. The “bully” might have something to say about your performance or your appearance; but that is their Build A Support Network The more people you have problem and not yours. The bully is merely projecting his/her own around you, the less likely you will be targeted for bullying. Your supinsecurities and fears onto you. port network can comprise your friends, family and co-workers. These are the people who you Make a Stand and Take Control can turn to after an especially hard Now that you have established day at work. They will be around who really has a problem here, to encourage you to do your best it is now time for you to take every single day. matters into your own hands. Normally when we are under stress we either Freeze, Fight or take Flight. The best remedy is to Move on Don’t expect to change the bully. FACE IT. Tell the bully directly or through a mediator that bullying Real behaviour change is difficult is unacceptable, harmful and that and it takes time. You have no control over a bully’s willingness it must stop. The trick is to remain polite and to accept they have a problem and professional while still setting to work on it. You can do your best your limits firmly. Do not let the to manage the situation, but it’s rebully get under your skin — that ally the company’s responsibility is what they want. Practise your to be observant and responsive to response so you are prepared the the needs of their workers and the next time something happens and general work environment. Bullying left unchecked can you can respond swiftly without getting emotional. Keep it simple harm your mental, physical, and and straightforward, for example: emotional health. If you have done “I don’t think your tone is ap- your best to manage the situation and you have sought assistance propriate.” from HR or line management but still no improvements have occurred, it is time to consider movRaise the issue, get help ing on. No, you are not letting the When learning how to deal bully “win.” Everyone deserves a with workplace bullying, you can safe, comfortable work environlook at the situation from a logical ment. If your current employer point of view. It would be helpful is not able to provide that to you, if you take note of every bullying take your skills elsewhere. n incident that happens to you. List down the details: what happened, when it happened and who was The HR Dept delivers training on handling conflict in the workplace as well as involved. If the “bully” has sent you supervisor communication skills. emails, SMS messages or notes, See www.thehrdept.gi for more save them all in a safe place as information or call for more information. they can serve as evidence in the Dignity At Work Now - Charity No 175 future. Tel. 57799000 email: dignityatwork@ Get help, you can report the inci- gibtelecom.net
Step 1
Step 1
Step 2
Step 5
Step 3
In the workplace, bullying usually focuses on distorted or fabricated allegations of under-performance GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
15
finance
The Wild Wild West... It’s official, Britain does not have any tax havens!
The Family Office discusses the continued pressure being exerted by European tax authorities to stamp out tax secrecy, tax avoidance and pension liberation. Since the publication of our August article UK Prime Minster David Cameron told the G20 summit “It’s not right to refer to any of the Overseas Territories or Crown Dependencies as tax havens. They have all changed the way they work to become fair and open tax systems”. The Prime Minister went on to say “We need to put this behind us and move on to deal with those countries that really are secretive tax havens”. Whilst the Overseas Territories or Crown Dependencies are in the midst of agreeing to the terms of the UK equivalent of the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has declared its intention to ratchet up
16
its efforts to stamp out what they regard as unacceptable tax avoidance by publishing a consultation document Raising the Stakes on Tax Avoidance. It is hoped the outcome of the consultation, which closed on 4th October, will see HMRC in a position to take direct action against firms who are seen as promoters of “high risk tax avoidance schemes
“and extend the current Disclosure of Tax Avoidance Schemes (DOTAS) regulations. Faced with the threat of closer scrutiny on a regular basis from HMRC a number of existing promoters have already announced that they are no longer willing to promote these arrangements, some ceasing to trade, others becoming purveyors of mainstream investments.
The UK is not the only European country to take such action. France recently announced its intentions and the publicity regarding the efforts of Italy to tackle tax evasion has not gone unnoticed
Couple this with the General Anti Abuse Rule (GAAR) which became law this July; the scope for legitimately avoiding the payment of tax is greatly reduced. The UK is not the only European country to take such action. France recently announced its intentions and the publicity regarding the efforts of Italy to tackle tax evasion has not gone unnoticed. Germany has taken a number of high profile sports people and celebrities to court over tax evasion, forcing some of its citizens to leave the country with cash stashed on their person. We have, in a previous article, discussed the reports of the Spanish authorities becoming very
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
finance proactive in their effort to identify tax nomads and there appears to have been no let up. Tax investigators are targeting hot spots in Southern Spain, such as Puerto Banus, Marbella and Sotogrande and are carrying out home visits to confront alleged tax nomads. The introduction of Form Modelo 720 is a statement of intent by the Hacienda that the Spanish Costas are not immune from action to regularise expats as Spanish residents. The Hacienda’s action has seen many European expats leaving the Spanish Costas. It has been noticeable that the number of Category 2 properties available to rent or buy in Gibraltar has reduced substantially with European expats seeing Gibraltar in a more favourable light.
the Department for Work and Pensions, the Pensions Regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority, the Serious Fraud Office and others are working to root out the promoters of such arrangements. The UK Minister for Pensions is planning to make such liberation schemes illegal and introduce custodial sentences for any adviser found of guilty of such actions. More so, now than ever before, individuals need to ensure that they seek advice from reputable firms and that any advice is fully compliant with UK and local tax laws. In previous articles we have considered the Statutory Residence Test and how this affects expats and outlined how Qualifying Non UK Pension Schemes (QNUPS) can provide both additional pension provision and protect assets for future generations. It is also worthwhile outlining the use of Pension Fraud Another area that the UK Gov- Qualifying Recognised Overseas ernment is seeking to combat is Pension Schemes (QROPS). pension liberation whereby UK pensions are transferred to off- QROPS shore vehicles with the promise QROPS were introduced on 6th of early access to the fund. The April 2006 to replace International advisers often act dishonestly Pension Schemes (IPS) which claiming that these vehicles are non-UK domiciled individuals approved by HMRC and are tried traditionally used to provide a and tested. In reality this merely pension that was portable around allows these advisors to raid the Europe. Prior to the introduction pension funds of unsuspecting of QROPS the mobile workforce individuals by charging exorbi- was required to have pensions in tant fees. the jurisdiction where individuals UK Minister for Pensions Steve were temporarily resident. The Webb said: European Pensions Directive en“Pension liberation fraud is a sured that QROPS achieved their crime. That is why, as part of our stated aim within all EU jurisdicplans to build a fairer society, we tions accepting that QROPS are are working across government truly international arrangements. and industry to stamp it out and QROPS have, until recently, to raise awareness of the dangers suffered adverse press as a result of handing over your pension pot. of attempts at pension liberation. By coming together this week we However, the rules surrounding will look at what else could be QROPS have been tightened sigdone, including whether we may nificantly to ensure they are fully need to change the law. compliant. “By signing up to one of these QROPS are regulated pension schemes you will destroy your schemes and have strict rules and future retirement savings. The investment criteria. Although UK promise of easy money when residents can use QROPS they are times are tough is all too tempt- of no real benefit over and above ing, and there are far too many a traditional pension, apart from a unscrupulous people who will marginal reduction in income tax prey upon this. These people charge when in drawdown. So, unwant your pension pot and if you less the individual intends to leave are offered a deal to unlock your the UK permanently, transferring pension, don’t touch it.” their pension fund to a QROPS is It is understood that a cross- not beneficial — but this is not the government task force, including whole story:
Individuals need to ensure that they seek advice from reputable firms and that any advice is fully compliant with UK and local tax laws. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
For those UK individuals who are at, or over, retirement age and are concerned that their pension may exceed the UK lifetime allowance, shortly to fall to £1.25m, QROPS may provide an opportunity to make better use of their pension pot by acquiring an International Open Annuity. International Open Annuities were developed under the EU Pension Directive to replace Flexible Lifetime Annuities from 6th April 2006. They can be accessed by UK residents and offers the following benefits: • • • • • • •
resident in Spain and Gibraltar reducing the tax charged on remitted income.
International Open Annuities are only available from a limited number of providers who have ensured they are fully compliant, in particular with the UK authorities, and enables individuals to be both tax efficient and protect their assets. So despite the tax landscape still being littered with dishonest advisers providing poor advice and leading individuals into ineffective and illegal arrangements to Wider and more flexible in- their disadvantage, there are still legitimate opportunities to protect vestment criteria; assets for the future. n An income for life; An income for life to other On a lighter charitable note, Tim family members following the will be competing in the Race Across death of the annuitant; America (RAAM) in June 2014 and No loss of the pension fund to is raising money for Help for Heroes. an insurance company; This is a very worthy cause. For more No UK Lifetime Allowance; information visit www.teambrazen. No UK Annual Contribution co.uk and www.raceacrossamerica. Limited; and org. To sponsor Tim please visit www. Open to UK expats who are bmycharity.com/TeamBrazen
Steve Bold, Partner TFO Tax LLP
Tim Richardson, Managing Director TFO Europe
The Family Office Europe oversees and provides comprehensive private office services including wealth management, international tax advice, generational planning and high-level advice.
The Family Office Europe aims to help high net worth individuals and their families navigate through the shark invested waters that exist in any offshore jurisdiction, where often the man in the pub has the best ideas on how to arrange your affairs. Central to the core belief of the founders is the mantra that clients should expect the same level of service, integrity, fee transparency and professionalism that they would expect to receive themselves.
The Family Office Europe, its affiliated businesses, TFO Tax Strategies Ltd based in Gibraltar and TFO Tax LLP in the UK, and appointed Advisory Board, are well placed to help with all these client concerns.
The Family Office 15 Irish Town, PO Box 1483 Gibraltar
TFO Tax LLP Peter House Oxford Street Manchester M1 5AN
T: +350 200 62084 F: +350 200 49290 info@tfoeurope.net www.tfoeurope.net
T: +44(0)161 209 3838 F: +44(0)161 209 3836 steve.bold@tfotax.net www.tfotax.net
17
finance
25th Anniversary Celebrations for NatWest NatWest celebrated the 25th anniversary of operation on the Rock with a fabulous black tie dinner for clients and staff at The Khaima at The Rock Hotel in October. On the night there were speeches by Adrian Gill, Chief Executive Officer, RBS International, who stated that the bank remained fully committed to its future in Gibraltar, and Regional Director, David Bruce. The Hon. Fabian Picardo, Chief Minister of Gibraltar also attended as guest speaker. The bank currently employs 140 staff in the Gibraltar operations. n
18
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
The regis by th
finance
We know your world doesn’t revolve around banking! Helpful banking, making things easier But we also know that you may need access to your money at any time of the day or night, and wherever you are. That’s why we have developed a range of apps for your smartphone or tablet, so you really can bank when it suits you, not when it suits us!
We’re making banking easier... ask us how! Call in to any branch natwestinternational.com/helpfulbanking Follow us on Twitter @NatWestGib
The Royal Bank of Scotland International Limited trading as NatWest (NatWest). Registered Office: P.O. Box 64, Royal Bank House, 71 Bath Street, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8PJ. Regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. NatWest is the registered business name of The Royal Bank of Scotland International Limited under the Business Names Registration Act. Gibraltar business address: National Westminster House, PO Box 707, 57 Line Wall Road, Gibraltar. Regulated and authorised by the Financial Services Commission, Gibraltar to undertake Banking and Investment Business from 57 and 55 Line Wall Road and 1 Corral Road, Gibraltar. Calls may be recorded. Network charges may apply.
resources
employees
�rom the beginning Gillaine Casciaro recalls 25 years serving NatWest Gibraltar’s customers.
A familiar face for many customers at NatWest’s Line Wall Road branch, Gillaine Casciaro is celebrating 25 years as a Bank employee in the same year that the Bank is marking its own anniversary. Gillaine was a member of staff even before the doors of the NatWest branch first opened and today she sits at a desk in the same location as when she started all those years ago, though having progressed to a more senior role. After taking her A-levels at Westside Comprehensive School, Gillaine joined the Bank in February 1988 and was one of the team working when the branch opened for the first time two months later. Gillaine was recruited as a standing order clerk and she was sent to the UK for training ahead of the grand opening. She recalled that the Bank was surprised by the level of public interest at the beginning. The branch was intended to be a support service to NatWest Finance and it was anticipated that about 1,000 accounts would be opened in the first year. In fact the branch opened 2,000 accounts in its first week! The 12 local staff soon needed more back up and so up to 30 additional employees from the UK were brought over for periods of three to four months to cope with
20
demand. Although in the same desk, much else has changed since those early days. “When we started, we dictated letters and secretaries typed them out for us on the new word processors. Most of what we did was manual and paper based. Later of course, we were all equipped with desktop word processors which meant we did everything ourselves
One of the most challenging moments in her banking career was the day the safe would not open
and everything was computerised. Some of the older members of staff found this difficult to adapt to initially. There have been a lot of changes naturally; there were no cash dispensers when we first opened, that came a few years later, and now of course we have cash machines at locations away from the Bank which has proved so helpful for customers.” One of the most challenging moments in her banking career was the day the safe would not open. “It was 9am and we had queues for cash, the safe door won’t open and everyone was panicking! But thanks to some quick thinking and excellent team work, we were still able to open the branch and deal with it. We explained the situation to our customers, ordered some breakfast in for them whilst we took in cash deposits and we sought assistance from other banks. Everyone pulled together and we managed to get the branch up and running very quickly. The Bank then flew in a specialist from
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
the UK and it took nearly four days before he was able to get the safe open. He had to drill through the metal to literally break into it, but we managed through it all!” Even though there has been such a change in the ways in which customers access their cash with many preferring to use online services to manage their banking needs, Gillaine notes how the branch remains popular with many of its long standing and loyal customers. “We still see many of our customers who visit the branch to access their cash, make deposits or to talk to us about their finances, and I love the opportunity I still have to meet with customers, many of whom have been banking with us since day one.” Gillaine has worked in virtually all areas of the bank since she joined. She had two children, Dylan and Ilyanna, and for a number of years worked part-time while they were growing up. She was appointed assistant manager of customer services in 1995, moved onto project management in 2001 and was later responsible for delivering training courses to staff in fraud and money laundering prevention. More recently she has been working as a Change and Efficiency manager for the four offshore jurisdictions. This year, with the children now aged 19 and 15, Gillaine returned to work full time and was appointed manager heading up the department responsible for Spanish mortgages. Gillaine concluded: “The highlight for me over the past 25 years, has been the people I work with. From day one it has been like a family, and we cope with the ups and downs just like a family would. There has always been a friendly and caring atmosphere about the branch. We know we can rely on each other and we pull together whenever we need to, in order to serve our customers and community well.” n
“
The highlight for me over the past 25 years, has been the people I work with. From day one it has been like a family
”
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Questionnaire on the Royal Gibraltar Police 2013
Have your say... The Gibraltar Police Authority has today launched its annual questionnaire that aims to ascertain the views of those living and working in Gibraltar on how Gibraltar is policed. The Gibraltar Police Authority is an independent body of 10 persons who have been entrusted to not only ensure high standards of integrity, probity and independence of policing in Gibraltar but also to hold the Commissioner of Police to account on behalf of the community in accordance with the Police Act 2006. The Authority is required in law to draw up and publish an Annual Policing Plan for Gibraltar which sets out the targets and priorities for policing. Before doing so, the Authority consults the public. The survey launched today follows the same successful methodology as was introduced in 2011. Surveys will be posted at random to a selection of addresses, distributed to places of work and members of the GPA staff will hold face-to-face interviews. Members of the Authority will also be holding two awareness mornings on the Main Street during November where they will be available to answer questions. The Authority would like to encourage as many people as possible to dedicate a few
minutes to fill in the questionnaire to offer them their opinion. This can be done online at www.gpa.gi. In the alternative, a questionnaire can be collected from the GPA offices or a request can be made to the GPA offices so that a questionnaire is sent by post. The Authority appreciates and values the participation of the public in this important public consultation. The results and comments received from the survey will be analysed and used to prepare the Annual Policing Plan for the year commencing 1st April 2014. John Gonçalves, who was appointed Chairman of the Authority in May of this year said, “The RGP have had an extremely challenging year and it is with great interest that we look forward to hearing the public’s opinion on the policing and generally on the performance of the RGP over the past 12 months.” n GPA Offices can be found at: No 1 Casemates House, Casemates Square Tel: 200 40918 email: info@gpa.gi website: www.gpa.gi. Office hours: 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday
21
training
Harrogate
Business Focused Business School Dr. Bill Snaith and Jane Walker are well known on the Rock as the Directors of Dynamic Decision Making Ltd having worked in Gibraltar for over 15 years helping many key organisations, and most Government Civil Service departments, to develop their staff in order to achieve greater strategic organisational success. Bill and Jane have now been asked to set up Harrogate, the international business school, as a part of Dynamic Decision Making Ltd which will continue to offer organisational and people development in Gibraltar. Powered by an outstanding, major UK educational institution recognised as five-star quality by EFMD, combined with Bill and Jane’s 15 years’ experience of running management development and strategic change programmes in Gibraltar they are keen to continue to work with organisations here developing leadership and management solutions. Their combined careers in leading UK business schools and practical management training organisations enables them to lead this new type of business school. Harrogate, the international Business School, is new, innovative and set up for the 21st Century. It is a business focused business school providing custom designed programmes to develop leaders and organisations. Bill and Jane understand the special dynamics that make Gibraltar ‘the place for business’. “As Harrogate, ‘the international Business School’, we can bring unique added value to working with Gibraltar based companies,” they say. Harrogate is focused on working with senior and succession managers to develop their knowledge, behaviours and practices by providing the highest quality,
The Chartered Management Institute advocates that well-trained leaders help with implementing changes in organisations — bringing others on board customised training and consultancy. This will help managers enhance their leadership, their organisational performance and their contribution to the economic growth of Gibraltar. Informed by both leading edge and well-established best practice Harrogate brings a radically new approach to working with client organisations. “We use best practice, models and theories most suited to develop leadership and management for the future.” The business school offers qualifications from institutions such as the Chartered Management Institute,
and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. What does this new type of business school bring to Gibraltar? “Harrogate brings practical management development academically underpinned, to add value and credibility to the development of your staff,” Bill explains, adding “The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) says, design should be based upon ‘organisation need’ to identify the right managers to develop based on both motivation and skill lev-
els, and training should be used as a privilege and a reward.” In particular, well-designed projects as part of the learning, immediately transfers learning into the workplace. For the organisation, it is important that participants need to be given the support to implement changes to avoid frustrations setting in. Yet to motivate participants, accredited learning is seen as impactful by those that have done it, and as a result, 90% identified personal improvements in performance. In summary, the CMI advocates that well-trained leaders help with implementing changes in organisations — bringing others on board. Learning is shared throughout the organisation. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), research shows that firms with a more-qualified management workforce and a dedicated programme of management development perform better, have more-sophisticated and higher-quality product market strategies and a betterqualified, innovative workforce. Yet, there is still a distinct lack of recognition of the value of people management skills within management development in general. This is, for instance, reflected by the fact that even high-level training provision in this area, such as MBAs, does not focus on people management. The impact of learning programmes on organisational success should be at the centre of our approach in Learning and
The Directors of Harrogate: Jane Walker MBA, BSc (Hons), FCMI
Dr. Bill Snaith DBA, MSc (Distinction), BA (Hons),
Jane is Commercial Director of Harrogate Business School and is responsible for the researching of customer needs and directing the design of solutions. She brings 25 years experience from Durham Business School and a private training company – Executive Training and Development Ltd.
Bill is Managing Director of Harrogate Business School. He is responsible for strategic direction and performance and brings over 25 years senior management experience from Durham Business School and the British Coal Management College.
Jane.Walker@Harrogate-Business-School.org.uk
22
CEng, CITP, FCMI, MBCS, AMCIPD Dr.Bill.Snaith@Harrogate-Business-School.org.uk
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
training
Training Development. Finally, the UK Government’s Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) advocates the Harrogate approach saying, bestpractice management development can result in a 23% increase in organisational performance. Management proficiency and performance appear to be posi-
tively linked. Highly qualified managers are more innovative. They are more likely to adopt strategies introducing new, higher quality products and improving existing products, while less qualified managers are more likely to engage in increasing the efficiency of production of existing products and services.
What is the ‘Harrogate’ Approach? “We work on ‘in-house’ programmes. That means we offer courses that work with you inside your organisation working with your managers, making a real impact on your organisation. We work directly with you to purposefully design bespoke pro-
grammes,” Bill explains. The Financial Times states “inhouse education has three advantages: it instils corporate culture and know-how that cannot be replicated externally; it avoids concerns about confidentiality, especially intellectual property and it provides convenience of location — close to client locations but off-site is preferred.” Harrogate designs programmes around what you need, for example your strategic plan, a current organisational need or your competency framework and our programmes may be one-day or up to one-year, and are designed to be impactful, interactive, based on best practice, academically underpinned and reflective – inspiring innovation and change. The UK Chamber of Commerce comments support the Harrogate approach: “Flexibility is also a key issue for employers,” it states. “They do not want to pay bespoke prices and then feel that they are being offered something off the shelf. Several employers commented that some schools spend more time telling them they can’t do what the employer wants and trying to shoe-horn them into something else.” n
BE - Epos Software Intelligent Solutions to Drive Your Retail Operations to the Next Level • • • •
Total Retail Control Central File Store - True Real Time Systems Integrated Stock Control Fashion, Retail, Hospitality
• • • •
Automated Ordering Customer Account Management Integrated Loyalty System Web based Management Reporting
Some local companies using Torex BE:
Kaycee Ltd Supplied & Supported in Gibraltar by:
9A/2 Cooperage Lane, Gibraltar
Tel: 200 77386 email: sales@bsgcomp.com website: www.bsgcomp.com
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
23
growing market
A Russian Love Destination?
photos: Gary Tapp tel: +34 600545032 website: ourweddingmoments.com
The captain held up two glass jars filled with sand. “This jar in my hand means the life of the bride, and the other jar is the life of the groom before they met each other. Take it and mix in this bottle.” With that, the captain upturned the bottles, taken moments before from the hands of the newly married couple, and poured the sand into the hourglass, his gift to the young couple. “Now your lives are mixed and merged together like this sand…” This was a part of the first ever wedding ceremony and party on board The Pickle that took place in October. The event was organised by Rock Prom (Gibraltar) Ltd (www.gibraltar. su). The Russian couple first visited Gibraltar in May this year and decided to get married here. The day before the ceremony we met the couple, Anna and Daniel, to find out why they had chosen Gibraltar and the schooner for this
special event. Daniel explained “Why Gibraltar? We have visited Gibraltar before and really liked it. I liked Pickle at first sight! And the idea to get married and hold a ceremony on board Pickle captured me.” He takes out his iPhone and shows the screensaver: “Have a look, here is the photo of Pickle I took during my first visit here!” Anna added “I also liked the idea — a wed-
“
Gibraltar with its fantastic landscape, unique history and romantic aura can be an attractive wedding destination for Russian couples
”
24
ding on board the historic ship at the southern end of Europe, on the edge of the world and the Pillars of Hercules — it’s so romantic! We invited just our close friends and they were very excited too.” Daniel also loved Gibraltar’s unique position. “We and our guests also liked the possibility to visit three countries at a time — wedding ceremony and banquet in Gibraltar, then we will have a couple of days in Spain, in Marbella, and then we will go to Morocco for our honeymoon.” According to the organisers, Rock Prom (Gibraltar) Ltd, weddings abroad is a fashionable trend in Russia. “In one and a half months we have arranged three Russian weddings in Gibraltar. The bride and groom want to make the most important day in their life extraordinary and memorable. Weddings in castles in Czech Republic or Austria, in the exotic Fiji and the Bahamas are very popular in Russia now and we think that Gibraltar with its fantastic landscape, unique history and romantic aura can be an attractive wedding destination for Russian couples.” n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
DHL Express is the global market leader in the international express business, so you probably already know that we can deliver your documents and parcels from Gibraltar to virtually every country in the world. What you might not know is that we can also take care of all your importing requirements.
For further information please contact: DHL Gibraltar Unit 36 Harbours Deck, New Harbours, Gibraltar Tel: 200 72210 Email: GIBSN@dhl.com
Regulation:
Getting the Balance Right words | Marcus Killick, CEO Financial Services Commission
Let me start by repetition. The Great Recession (as it is now frequently referred to), which we may or may not be crawling our way out of, has contained no great revelations. There were no newly revealed truths. The fact capitalism has booms and busts is hardly surprising, apart from perhaps to Gordon Brown who thought he had put an end to it. A difference between capitalism and communism is that capitalism has peaks and troughs, communism only the latter. Lending too much, or to the wrong people, will always end in tears. If creditors lose confidence in you they will want higher interest on what they lend you or, worse still, their money back. Spend more than you earn in anything other than the short term and for sensible, defined reasons, will cause ruin, perhaps for generations. Some people are
26
greedy, some are stupid, some arrogant and some are criminals. It is best to keep these people away from your money and certainly don’t create a culture which encourages and rewards them. These are simple truths, not new ones. Gibraltar has largely escaped the worst of the crisis, though we have suffered as col-
lateral damage from financial institutions reviewing their global presence and activities. This escape cannot allow us to be complacent or to succumb to hubris. The fact that Government is unlikely to fall victim to this threat can be seen by Albert Isola’s appointment as Minister for Financial Services and the strengthening of the Finance
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
regulation Centre’s marketing capability. Already, new legislation governing regulatory cooperation, which is essential to the reputation of the jurisdiction, and the failure to put this in place would lead to countermeasures by other centres, is due to be on the statute books by the time this article is printed. Other developments to enhance the attractiveness of Gibraltar as a jurisdiction are also well under way. We are best placed to compete in the new environment by developing as a centre for excellence in key areas. We have already had success in respect of this in a number of our offerings such as certain insurance products and in the provision of skilled value added trust work. We can develop others, such as electronic money (E-money). These can be achieved by a combination of strong marketing, an effective regulatory structure and by the industry delivering a high quality end product. What is powerful about the Gibraltar financial services product is the willingness of a number of the professional associations here to develop their own codes of conduct. These have been created with the collaboration of the regulator but not at its insistence. Yet we are only as strong as our weakest link. Some still lack this commitment to quality of service. We need to be able to persuade them that this approach is not acceptable in a high quality jurisdiction. They can then change or choose to operate elsewhere. Consumers must be confident in our products and services. They also need to know that if things go wrong, as inevitably they sometimes will, they have someone to turn to. Government’s commitment to establishing a Financial Services Ombudsman is therefore a very welcome development in this area. To assist in the centres of excellence concept, industry professionals should be required to demonstrate a high level of understanding of what they are doing, if necessary with qualification benchmarks. Seniority should not be allowed to be used as a pass from this. Markets change and knowledge fades. Within the FSC significant effort is made to ensuring our teams are appropriately trained and our annual report shows the breadth of professional qualifications possessed by team members. Supervision itself has to be robust but also responsive. We are a small jurisdiction and
Smaller regulators do not have the luxury of the resources of those in larger centres, yet we must regulate to the same standard. The crisis has shown that, in many ways the smaller centres are not merely up to that challenge but have an approach which has been more “fit for purpose” than the approach adopted in their larger brethren. To attempt to replicate a UK or US style (which themselves are subject to frequent change) is not merely impossible, it is potentially damaging to effective supervision. To use as one example is the issue of balance, which is one any regulator must face. Here again the position of the regulator in the smaller international centres is different from those of its larger counterparts. Regulators with small local markets compared to their overseas one, by nature are in a competitive environment. There are a myriad of other centres providing broadly similar attrac-
finance
tions. The fact that the ultimate client base is not indigenous means it is less loyal. An insurance policyholder in the UK generally does not care or even know whether their insurer is based in the UK, France, Malta or Gibraltar. Their concern, if any, is whether the policy is competitively priced and that the insurer will pay if there is a claim. Inevitably there must be a principled compromise. Capital and solvency must be high enough to ensure the firm can meet claims, but not so high as to make the jurisdiction unattractive to insurers because of the high cost of doing business compared to alternative locations. This inevitably becomes an issue of judgment, insufficient solvency means client loss and reputational damage if a firm fails, too much and you have no industry. This makes the approach and style of the regulator in smaller jurisdictions as important as the regulations they are tasked with enforcing. There are no formulas or processes that can replace this. Virtually every decision is a judgment call. This is particularly true when it comes to disciplinary action. In Gibraltar we have generally conducted our actions in private only making them public when there is either no alternative, for example where court action is involved, or where it is in the public interest to do so. This is now changing; international expectations are for regulators to be far more transparent in the disciplinary actions they take. Nevertheless, we still determine on a case by case basis and generally do not publish in the case of minor wrongdoing where the resultant publicity is a greater punishment than the wrongdoing warrants. Similarly there may be other instances where public disclosure is inappropriate. In general though, publication is now the norm. A robust but responsive regulator is vital to the success of any financial centre, large or small. Its overriding duty must be to protect the public from financial harm. Harm can come in many forms, from fraudsters, incompetent advice, the collapse of financial institutions or even the corrosive impact of corruption and money laundering. Such a duty is not always achievable but it should always be strived for. If we do not, what are we there for? n
The crisis has shown that, in many ways the smaller centres are not merely up to that challenge but have an approach which has been more “fit for purpose”
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
therefore are able to review matters on a case by case basis. The FSC should and does listen to the industry on a range of issues. We have created two Panels comprised of industry representatives (chosen by them, not the FSC), one for funds and one for auditors to discuss regulatory proposals in depth. The success of these will be rolled out to other areas as appropriate. We also meet regularly with the different representative associations. A process of short term inward secondments to the FSC from the private sector has been in place for about two years, allowing greater cross fertilisation and skills and understanding. We have also had secondments from regulators in other countries. We liaise closely with our fellow regulators, particularly on those areas with which we are unfamiliar and need to learn from their experience
27
finance fiction Susan is actually the anti-money laundering specialist who travels every September to Gibraltar to brief local businesses on the latest updates on behalf of the Gibraltar Association of Compliance Officers. And this year she brought with her news of her latest book, to add to a long list of publications on the subject, such as Money Laundering: A Training Strategy, The Money Laundering Officer’s Practical Handbook and AntiMoney Laundering: A Guide for the Non-Executive Director. Fatal Forgery stands alone within her bibliography, because it isn’t a technical essay for the people in the know, but an excit-
“
The details are different, but the fear and the mistrust — and the implications of those for the financial sector — are just the same
”
Fatal Forgery: how they did it in the 1820s
words | Elena Scialtiel
Cambridge-based money laundering expert and lecturer Susan Grossey has just launched her first work of fiction on the topic — and Gibraltar features in it big time! 28
ing and fast-paced financial crime novel set in the 1820s, when the Royal Gibraltar Police was just in its infancy — in fact, it wasn’t even Royal at that point. “Like all writers and journalists, I have always wanted to write ‘a proper book’ — i.e. a novel,” Susan says. “One day I was in the University Library here in Cambridge, researching the history of a bank to see when its crooked activities started, and I came across the story of Henry Fauntleroy, the banker in Fatal Forgery. I thought that I would love to write about him, intending it to be a short biography, but once I started writing, fictional episodes kept popping into my mind and I decided to turn it into fiction instead.” Writing a period novel is always daunting. Every author cringes before the looming faux pas of gross anachronism, so Susan did her homework quite diligently: “I read everything I could get my hands on — newspapers, magazines, books. I particularly devoured the transcripts of trials
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
finance fiction from the Old Bailey, which helped enormously with both trial procedure and legal language. I went to museums and art galleries, and put copies of portraits of banker Fauntleroy and a man who looked like I imagine my policeman hero Sam Plank to look like above my desk. And I read a couple of ‘Regency romances’ to get the slang right — although the plots were diabolical! “I think it simply shows that nothing ever changes,” Susan describes the message, if any, in her novel, which is first and foremost pure entertainment. Of course she knows London quite well, and she made sure she walked all the journeys she made her policeman hero take, to figure out the right timings: “I went to all the locations in the book — although of course some have changed beyond recognition. I am not a trained historian, but I am a meticulous researcher and I can sometimes lose hours at a time on silly details, like: just how wide would that hat brim have been, and did they drink from glasses or tankards?” Susan loves historical fiction because it affords her the luxury of escaping to another era: “In 1824, paper money (as opposed to metal coin) and share certificates were fairly new, and people were just learning to trust them — and then along came Fauntleroy, a banker in a trusted position, and he cheated the system. In 2013, virtual money is fairly new and we are just learning to trust it — and along come Bitcoin and cybercrime. The details are different, but the fear and the mistrust — and the implications of those for the financial sector — are just the same.” So, how does Gibraltar fits in all this? “In the novel, I wanted to get Sam Plank out of London, on a bit of an adventure, and Gibraltar was the ideal location: it had the British links, you could actually get there quite quickly (only 12 days at sea in those times!), and there was the police connection too. Having spent time in Gib myself and having seen that much of the layout is the same as in 1830, I felt that I could describe his impressions fairly convincingly. Although I am glad to say that there is rather less plague and fever these days…” Fatal Forgery’s protagonist, the policeman Samuel Plank, is described by Susan as ‘the other man in her life’ with her husband
Paul’s blessing (and possibly that of her tabby Maggie, short for Magnificat). Sam worked as a police officer for a magistrates’ court, enforcing arrest warrants, until the Metropolitan Police was started in 1829 and he enrolled. In the meantime, the Governor of Gibraltar George Don had decided to start Gibraltar’s own police along the same lines as the Met: “He asked for someone to come out from London to help him and — in my novel, at least — that man is Sam Plank, a thoroughly reliable officer, with his own take on things — more inclined to listen than to speak.” The plot of Fatal Forgery revolves about the historical figure of respected banker Henry Fauntleroy, who seems altogether too eager to plead guilty when Sam is sent to arrest him after he’s busted forging his clients’ signatures, in an era when paper money was a novelty and anyone caught in the act of forgery was sent to the scaffold. Sam has no sidekick as such, but he often discusses his cases with his wife Martha, an expert in deciphering his moods who often gives her female perspective on issues at stake. Susan is planning to give her more scope in Sam’s next adventure (working title A Fool and His Money); this will not be set in Gibraltar, as it returns Sam to 1825 (but perhaps the third instalment will be). Susan was brought up in Singapore and graduated from Cambridge University in 1987 with a degree in English. She taught secondary school for two years before realising that the National Curriculum was not for her. She became a technical author and moved into technical training. One day she was asked to help with a staff manual on fraud prevention: “As I wrote the chapter on money laundering, I realised that here was a topic that could keep my interest for years — and so it has proved. Since 1998, I have been self-employed as
“
an anti-money laundering consultant, providing training and strategic advice and writing policies and procedures for clients in many countries.” She adds: “My job is indeed demanding, but endlessly rewarding and — to my mind — essential. I think it is grossly unfair that criminals should profit from their crimes, and I work hard to make sure that they don’t. “I do a lot of face-to-face antimoney laundering training at all levels in several jurisdictions (UK, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey and the Isle of Man), so this requires
My job is indeed demanding, but endlessly rewarding and — to my mind — essential. I think it is grossly unfair that criminals should profit from their crimes, and I work hard to make sure that they don’t
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
”
an enormous amount of preparation researching the latest information available in the media. My customers are all businesses who are required to put in place anti-money laundering procedures — mainly banks and other financial institutions, insurance companies, fiduciaries, lawyers, accountants, estate agents and casinos, real and virtual.” When she is not on duty as a magistrate in Cambridge or fighting financial crime, or writing about it in her monthly column for the trade magazine Money Laundering Bulletin or in her antimoney laundering blog www.ihatemoneylaundering.wordpress. com, you can find Susan writing her weekly column for the Cambridge News or her writers’ blog www.susangrossey.wordpress. com, or perhaps knitting, reading or pedalling on the back of a tandem! n Fatal Forgery is available on Amazon priced £7.52 or just £3.11 for Kindle. You can also download a plain PDF file from Gumroad.com.
29
Trio of Graduates Join KPMG Gibraltar Team KPMG Gibraltar has welcomed three new additions to its 20strong local team as part of the audit, tax and advisory firm’s highly competitive graduate intake programme. Mark Tate, Kaleem Khan and Robert Goode have relocated to the Rock to embark upon their career path with the Times newspaper’s 4th best graduate employer in the world.
Mark Tate, Kaleem Khan and Robert Goode
30
Mark Tate, is a recent graduate of Kingston University, London with a degree in Accounting and Finance. Varied work experience within the financial sector positions Mark well for a career in accountancy and audit, whilst an eclectic range of interests, including DJing, should offer respite from a demanding new role. In 2009, Mark was also TaekwonDo Heavyweight Champion of the UKTA, or United Kingdom Taekwon-Do Association, the longest running and most established organisation of its kind in the United Kingdom. A Politics, Philosophy and Economics graduate of Durham University in 2006, Kaleem Khan (pictured centre) joins KPMG with
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
finance significant experience having previously worked with KPMG London as a Transaction Services Executive in the Private Equity Group. Kaleem left KPMG London in 2008 and has since been working in finance and analysis roles in Kabul and Pakistan – so he should be well equipped to cope with anything Gibraltar clients can throw at him. Whilst, like the other two graduates, Kaleem’s work will fall mainly into the audit sphere, he will also support KPMG’s growing and increasingly busy local transactions services team. Robert Goode was already a regular visitor to Gibraltar as his brother previously moved here, also to train as an accountant. A recent graduate of York University in Economics and Mathematics, he spent last summer in South Africa working as a coach in the townships of Port Elizabeth for United Through Sport, a global sports charity dedicated to sports development, education and health for the disadvantaged. KPMG Gibraltar’s Managing Director, Micky Swindale, commented on the appointments: “Through our graduate intake programme we aim to provide an open, friendly environment that offers long-term growth, consistent challenge and generous reward. Our graduates and students are our future leaders and have demonstrated tenacity and proactivity in their careers, as well as academic flare. I would like to congratulate Mark, Kaleem and Robert and welcome them to the KPMG team.” n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
UK Tax Authority Errors are Costing Gibraltar Pensioners Pensioners in Gibraltar who are receive UK pensions may be paying more UK tax than they should be. Errors made by HMRC when issuing PAYE codes are resulting in Gibraltar residents who receive UK pensions not receiving their tax free allowance. The personal allowance in the UK is £9,440 for pensioners born after 5 April 1948 and £10,550 for those born between 6 April 1938 and 5 April 1948. For
example, someone receiving UK pensions and not receiving personal allowances could be overpaying tax in the UK by up to £2,000 per annum. Angela White at Hassans comments: “We are seeing more and more of these cases and have been able to obtain substantial
Angela White, Consultant, Hassans – International law firm
refunds for a number of clients. Those receiving UK pensions should check that their PAYE tax code is correct and if they are unsure they should contact a specialist.” n
31
charity
A+ Director and Treasurer of the Friends of Gibraltar, Tim LawsonCruttenden, Her Honour Judge Suzanne Coates, and Jonathan Cox at the Royal Gibraltar Yacht Club
Jonathan Cox
Having an Adventure + The subject of this month’s interview, Jonathan Cox, is married to Tessa Peliza (daughter of the former Chief Minister of Gibraltar Sir Robert Peliza). The couple now run the UK Christian charity Adventure Plus, dedicated to providing adventure training for children, youths and young adults, from a variety of backgrounds. Jonathan states “How exciting would it be to welcome our first Gibraltarians to our Instructor Training year and send them back with all those qualifications to help set up A+ Gibraltar and encourage youth here?” Jonathan, 51, is the son of the late Dr Murray Cox, the eminent consultant psychotherapist at Broadmoor high security hospital from 1970 until his death in 1997 and Caroline, Baroness Cox, who was granted a peerage in 1982 on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher. Jon was educated at Kingsbury High School (where he met future wife Tessa), followed by Nurse training at the Royal London Hospital, where he subsequently worked as a staff nurse in the Casualty Department. He read environmental sciences at King’s College, London, following a year as a Community Development worker and Health Teacher in Sudan. He was founder and is now the executive director of Adventure Plus. Jon met Tessa when they were both prefects at the age of 16 and the romance that followed ended in marriage eight years later. While Jon trained as a nurse, Tessa went to Belgium to work as an au pair to perfect her French. Upon her return she went to Bournemouth University to read Law and French. Jon is a committed Christian who believes in the power of prayer which he explains has directed his life and guided the way forward when things have been challenging. He went to Sudan for 12 months, the year of Live Aid, with a Canadian Christian relief organisation and found immense hunger there. The hunger was caused by war and exploitation as there was sufficient food to feed the
32
indigenous population, however merchants would buy all the abundant crops and take them to the North of Sudan where the population would pay considerably higher prices. In Damazin, in the centre of Sudan, the warehouses, post-harvest, would be filled with grain which gave employment to a few loading grain onto the convoys of trucks which drove
“
The Charity’s motto is Helping you realise your potential through adventure and education in a positive Christian environment
”
to the North. The weak who grew and loaded the grain and other food went hungry and, on occasion, starved. He ponders the question whether or not Africa might be totally self sufficient in food production if it were evenly distributed? Jon tries each morning to pray and read a passage from the Bible. One morning he read a passage from Isaiah which included this phrase: ‘Before you call I will answer. Whilst you are still speaking I will hear your prayer.’ He feels it is significant that later the same morning came a radio message advising that hundreds of refugees were pouring across the border from Ethiopia into Sudan. To this was added an instruction to do all the small team could as theirs was the only outfit in the area who could respond. There were no stock piles of food, no tents, no blankets, no water and few medical supplies. All the team could do was to work hard with the resources available, when suddenly things began to fall into place. As they searched for resources to help the refugees due to arrive within three days, they found enough tents to sleep 1,000 people in a warehouse on the edge of town and were given permission to use them for the emergency camp. Jon also came across an ancient fire engine that long ago had been pensioned off but its driver had ensured the working parts were kept in good order. It was driven to the Nile where water was pumped into its tanks and taken to the camp. Then followed more good news — two trucks, belonging to another charity, were heading into town filled with enough food, blankets, cooking pots and plastic cups for 600 people for three days. When there is a crowd of genuinely hungry people and a stockpile of food, it is essential all receive an equal share. To do this there has to be good communication between the authorities and the starving. Unfortunately no one on their team spoke any of the three Ethiopian dialects. Again, help came unexpectedly. A few weeks earlier, the Police had picked up four Ethiopian illegals who were jailed. The Police Commissioner asked Jon to add the four to the hundreds of refugees. Jon agreed and discovered they spoke all three dialects plus English and so were able to issue the required instructions. One was also a trained medical worker! On Jon’s return to London he went up to King’s College for three years to read environmental sciences. It was a conversation with an old school friend that sparked the initiative to set up Adventure Plus, the adventure youth work charity Jon and Tessa now run. “There’s got to be more to life than this…” — the words hit Jon hard. Jon takes up the story... “I had just returned from the year working as a health teacher in Sudan. After such a fulfilling and adventurous year, I was hugely challenged by a chance encounter with an old school friend, who at the age of 23, was already bored with life! His words really emphasised his aimless lack of purpose, so common in our comfortable Western society. “This was the catalyst that resulted in our work with 50,000 children and young people over 20 years. To encourage young people here in the UK to ‘Live the Adventure’. We did that by starting the charity which is now called Adventure Plus (A+).” Initially, their knowledge of how to run adventure activities was nil. Jon became involved
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
charity in youth work in London while Tessa continued her legal studies. After they prayed for guidance, two Canadians arrived at the Peliza’s house in North London to visit a mutual friend who was staying with them at the time. It turned out one ran a Christian adventure centre, Birch Bay Ranch, in Alberta, Canada. Many of the young people who attended had such a brilliant time they would return each year and many became leaders and ‘counsellors’. Tessa and Jon were invited to visit the centre the following summer and the time spent there was formative and helpful in developing their approach to youth work. All was not work, however — they went on a ‘road-trip’ across the Rockies to Vancouver on the Pacific coast, where Jon proposed to Tessa on the ferry crossing to Vancouver Island, and she accepted. The couple were married in December at All Souls Church, Langham Place, London, 25 years ago. While in London Jon and Tessa became involved with the Club House which is linked to All Souls Church and they learned a great deal about working with ‘urban youth culture’. Tessa passed her Law Society finals and joined Tim Lawson-Cruttenden’s law firm as a trainee solicitor. At the time neither knew of each other’s Gibraltar connections. She discovered that Tim had a passion for youth work and was a member of another significant London church, Holy Trinity Brompton. By chance he had also just set up a registered charity. Almost on the same day Tessa started work with Lawson-Cruttenden, Jon received the documents from the Charity Commission explaining how to set up a charity and Tessa, under Tim’s guidance, established the charity. In 1990 Tessa qualified as a solicitor and decisions had to be taken about what to do next. The most urgent requirement was to raise sufficient funds to get their newly formed charity off the ground. The location needed to be 90 minutes from London and there must be sporting facilities nearby. They set up CLUB 111 with the aim of getting 111 members to each raise £111 a year, to provide a float of some £60,000. A couple who were keen supporters invited them to dinner to hear about the work and possibly join CLUB 111. At the end of the meal, their host suggested “that if God was behind this project then He must know where they should establish the charity and by some means they would be advised”. So prayers were said and a Canadian visitor Dawn, at the table said, while they were praying she had clearly heard a word. “But it’s not a proper word,” she said shyly. After some
The wedding GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
coaxing she said the word ‘Windrush’. This meant nothing to Tessa and Jon however the hostess said it must mean the Windrush Valley in Oxfordshire, about 90 minutes from Central London. It so happened she knew the Mayor of the small town of Witney, built on the River Windrush, who was a committed Christian and interested in promoting youth work in his local area. So on that word, Jon borrowed a car and arranged to visit the Mayor the next day. He discovered there were some 20 lakes near Witney and the planning department were looking for low input development of leisure activities on some of the lakes. The signs indicated this was worth following up. Tessa, needing to find her first job, applied to all the solicitor’s offices in Witney and was offered a role. The couple bought a house in Witney in 1991 and moved there. They are now a family of six: Anna was born in 1992, Murray 1994, Emily 1997 and Lucy 1999. Adventure Plus The first summer camps were run in 1994 at Cokethorpe School during the holidays. Tessa’s nephew, Christian Navas, helped build a climbing wall in the school grounds which is still in use. By 2000 Adventure Plus worked with 1,000 children and young people a year and grew exponentially seeing an extra 1,000 every year until 2005. Included in this total is a party of 20 young Gibraltarians, sent by Lt Col Eddie Guerrero, who took part in leadership training. Since the start, over 50,000 young people have attended the adventure activities and last year there were 6,000 looked after by a full-time team of 16 and 200 volunteers. A+ also offers an exciting Gap Year programme where young adults join for a year and end up as qualified canoe and kayak coaches, climbing wall leaders, archery leaders, fencing leaders and mountain bike leaders. The year is also an opportunity to explore the Christian
“
Adventure Plus is one of the most exciting charities around for inspiring young people to get out there, grab life and live boldly
”
— Bear Grylls
Jonathan enjoying the outdoors
faith and work alongside hundreds of children and young people and put all that training into action. In 2008 the charity created a special unit, working with young people at risk of exclusion from school and those struggling with mainstream education or at risk offending, called Adventure Impact. Patron, Bear Grylls, the adventurer, writer and television presenter, says “Adventure Plus is one of the most exciting charities around for inspiring young people to get out there, grab life and live boldly.” BBC Radio 2 presenter and news reporter Jeremy Vine, also a patron, says “What a great charity A+ is. They really know what they’re doing. They do it with tremendous enthusiasm and along the way the lives of youngsters are turned around. It is wonderful to meet a group of people who are so completely dedicated to helping others find their way in the world. They’re inspiring people... and it’s a hugely inspiring charity. Some people dream of changing the world — this lot actually do it.” This year it was decided that Adventure Plus should have a permanent home and a b benefactor has offered them the opportunity to buy land considerably below market price. However, £1.3 million needs to be raised. When the money has been raised it has been decided that Sir Robert Peliza’s support and contribution over the years will be recognised and marked by a shield in his name, placed in the new Adventure Base. Jon Cox ended this interview with thoughts about Gibraltar. “I was privileged to come over to Gibraltar to support Tim LawsonCruttenden, A+ Director and Treasurer of the Friends of Gibraltar, earlier in the year. I was struck by the fantastic natural activity venues that are to be found all round Gibraltar, and across the border, for sports such as climbing, canoeing, sea kayaking sailing, snorkelling and diving, to name but a few, plus the stunning locations for fitness training. This coupled with the vibrant youth work that already exists for young people in Gibraltar represents a fantastic opportunity to work together to offer some really exciting programmes for Gibraltarian young people, which may include Duke of Edinburgh training.” n More details can be found at: www.adventureplus. org.uk. The book of the Adventure Plus story is due to be published in April 2014 by Authentic Media. Contact jon@adventureplus.org.uk if you’d like to order a copy, or if you’d like to keep in touch with the developing work of AdventurePlus.
Kids on an Adventure +
33
Let There Be (Better) Light words | John Clifford, Director, Cocoon Renewable Energy Consultants
This month I would like to talk about The advances in modern lighting and specifically the use of LED lighting (light emitting diode) in both residential and business scenarios. LED lights are widely appreciated for their energy efficient performance. Compared to other conventional sources of lighting like the incandescent and the fluorescent lights, LED lights consume far less energy to produce a greater output. Therefore they are a great way for householders and businesses to save on their electricity bills and reduce their carbon footprint Lighting accounts for 10% of a typical household’s energy bills and generally much more for commercial premises so cutting your lighting bill is one of the easiest ways to save energy and money in the home or workplace. LEDs also have a number of other benefits over traditional
lighting, including: • Long life Up to to 100,000 hours — this equates to 11 years of continuous operation — reducing maintenance costs considerably. • Durability LEDs are extremely durable and built with sturdy components that are highly rugged • Light dispersal LED is designed to focus its light and can be directed to a specific location without the use of an external reflector. • Instant lighting LED lights brighten immediately when powered. Also, LED lights can be switched off and on frequently without affecting lifetime or light emission. • Low voltage A low-voltage power
Recreate the ambience of that holiday sunset in your own home
Set your inner Picasso free Create and control your personal lighting scheme from your iPhone or iPad wherever in the world you are? Now you can with the Philips Hue connected LED bulbs and wireless bridge. 34
Hue is a lighting solution for the home that’s functional and practical, but it can also be emotive and inspiring. It’ll change the way you think about home lighting. Forever. Hue lets you express who you are, through the way you light your home with a vast palette of light and colour. The bulbs produce a great quality of bright white light with tunable white and colours. Tune, dim, and control Hue from anywhere. With hue, you’ll see light in a whole new way. It lets you play with tone, contrast and colour to create any lighting mood you could dream of. It’s clever, intuitive and connected. It‘s so much more than just a light bulb. Choose your favourite holiday photos from your library and use the colour picker to recreate the ambience of that safari sunset, island paradise or snowcapped vista. Turn your lights on or off remotely using your iPhone or iPad. Even set the lights to come on automatically, just before you return home. Set timers to help you wake up and pace your day. Use the ‘concentrate’ Light Recipe to help you pay attention and stay focussed for longer, or the Relax Light Recipe to set your
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
supply is sufficient for LED illumination. This makes it easy to use LED lighting outdoors by connecting an external solar-energy source.
As the use of solar panels and other renewable energy sources is becoming more and more popular for household and business energy requirements, combining the energy saving aspects of LED lights and the available sources of renewable energy it is possible to greatly reduce consumer bills/demand and carbon footprint. Many types of LED are now available on the market that can be used in off grid or grid backed up renewable energy installations. Renewable energy options such as solar panels and wind turbines may be used to charge a battery bank with power. As the LED lights consumes less power, this method of charging is more than enough to keep the lights running. Cocoon Renewable Energy Consultants’ Technical Director in Gibraltar, Andrew Mortlock, is currently overseeing the installation of solar PV at Sir William Jackson Grove estate to run all of
the community lighting. The lighting is also being upgraded to LED (over 500 light units) which will reduce running and maintenance costs greatly for the residents’ benefit. On the market now there is a great range LED lights that can be used for specific purposes. LED Solar Garden spot lights is probably one of the most popular solar LED lighting devices available. It is a low cost product that consumes the least possible energy and is available in affordable and attractive price ranges. These LED spot lights last for so long that a replacement will not be needed for many years They are wonderful lighting options for your garden and landscape, available in many different colours and can be lit all through day and night without consuming much power. n If you would like further information or advice on LED lighting or on solar PV and solar thermal installations please contact Cocoon Renewable Energy Consultants — John Clifford, Director on 54018595 or Andy Mortlock, Technical Director on 54037734 or email: info@cocoon.gi
lights to a specific yellow-white tone, scientifically proven to have a calming effect. The possibilities are endless. It’s easy to extend your lighting system with additional single bulbs. All you need is the bridge that comes with the Starter Pack. You can connect up to 50 Hue light bulbs to a single system, while using as much as 80% less energy than traditional bulbs. Each Hue light bulb delivers 600
lumens and produces all shades of white, from warm to cold, and a wide variety of colour. Light bulbs are compatible with most sockets. The Hue Bridge (included in the Starter Pack) is required for operation. The Philips Hue App is free from the app store and provides an amazing way to control every Philips hue bulb in your home. All in the palm of your hand. It makes the light switch look like it came from the Dark Ages. n
Hue lets you express who you are, through the way you light your home with a vast palette of light and colour
What you need: iOS4 and the Philips Hue starter pack (3 Philips Hue bulbs and Hue Bridge). Single bulbs can then be added, up to 50 per bridge. Compatible with iPhone 3G, 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPod Touch (3rd gen), iPod Touch (4th gen), all iPads.
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
35
Home Help Your decorating dilemmas answered by Meme Fairbank of Denville Designs
ASK MEME email your interior design questions to meme@denvilledesigns.com or write to her at 62 Engineer Lane, Gibraltar
Is your home in decorating crisis? Do you need help to tame the interior chaos? Meme is here to tackle all your decorating, furnishing and style problems.... One room at a time.
Q
I have just had my bathroom refurbished. I chose to be safe and the whole room is cream and beige but now I am really bored of it. Any idea how I can change the look without retiling? I am a big fan of beige and cream rooms, as you can bring any colour in with accessories.Choose your favourite colour, eg blue, and decorate the bathroom with blue towels and pots and bathmat. You can even hang art work on the wall in the same colour. When you get bored of blue you can change it again without breaking the piggy bank! n
Q
I have just
moved into my new house and I can’t afford to buy everything at the same time. I need a bed and wardrobes etc... Any idea what I can use to store my clothes in until I can afford more furniture? You could buy a storage bed that will house some clothes until you can afford more furniture or you can buy drawers that fit under the bed this is also a good storage option. Otherwise you can buy clothes rails that will hold clothes — a little ugly, but they do the job. n
36
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
home ideas
Q
Help! I have bought my first apartment and I don’t know where to start...
Many people ask me this question, but it’s not that difficult. I think many people panic and rush into the wrong style too quickly. Everyone has a style they prefer even if they don’t know it! I advise most of my clients to take a few furniture and design magazines and cut out any pictures they like and then look at them all again together. You will find you do have a style you favour. Don’t rush and go to a furniture shop and buy an entire set of living room furniture as this will look like a show flat rather than homely. It takes time to build a home, adding to your collections and style whether it is French, rustic or ultra modern. Adding to your furniture and art work over time means you won’t make a big mistake and gives you time to live in your home and get a better feel.
Collect pictures of interiors you like and when you put them all together you will find you actually do have a preferred style
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
The biggest piece of advice is go for what you like, not what your relatives/friends like — at the end of the day you will be living with it not them! n
37
Residential rents:
The only way is up! The cost of residential rents in the Gibraltar private rented sector has increased significantly in the last 12 months. If this continues, Gibraltar could price out those that it seeks to attract, that is, every day workers. According to Gibraltar estate agent Chesterton, the average rent in the one and two bedroom property market in the private rented sector has increased by some 10% in the last 12 months. This is well ahead of wage inflation. For many, the cost of renting is reaching half of their take home income. It is not surprising therefore, that some tenants are calling for rent controls, either mandatory limits on rent, or, a means to prevent landlords from increasing rents so much above inflation at each renewal. The problem is easily summarised: if prices (ie rents) are
38
going up, that means that there is a scarcity of available properties to let. The demand for properties in the private rented sector, especially in the one and two bedroom market has been strong for a number of years. However, it was this time last year when the strong demand
became a surge in demand. Spain introduced its Form 720, which required Spanish residents to report all owned overseas assets to Hacienda. Form 720 doesn’t impose new taxes, however, there was a fear that it was the prelude to a new aggressive tax regime. A significant number of cross-border
The result has been a further influx of workers into rented accommodation in Gibraltar because the daily commute has become too burdensome
workers chose to move to Gibraltar as a result. More recently, Gibraltar has encountered deteriorating border issues with Spain which has impeded the free flow of cross border workers from Gibraltar back to their homes in Spain. The result has been a further influx of workers into rented accommodation in Gibraltar because the daily commute has become too burdensome. 10 years ago, there were some 14,000 jobs in Gibraltar (of which 5,000 were filled by non-Gibraltarians). Today, the number of jobs is around 22,000 (of which 12,000 are filled by non-Gibraltarians), an in-
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
crease of 8,000 jobs (which in itself is a success story for Gibraltar) of which 7,000 have been filled by non-Gibraltarians. Although anecdotal, it is probably safe to say that many of these new jobs have gone to non-Spanish nationals who have already moved into Gibraltar (and some in private rented accommodation) or have moved to Spain and become cross-border workers, but are now part of the influx from Spain to Gibraltar and forcing up private sector rents. In the same 10 years as the above jobs growth, I would estimate that the number of private sector properties built in Gibraltar to be around 2,000, many of which are luxury apartments well beyond the budget of the average employee. This somewhat crude and anecdotal analysis of the numbers, demonstrates that whilst Spain continues to lose its attraction as a home base for Gibraltar employees, the strain on the private rented sector is going to continue, which means higher rents. The way to tackle the rising rent
issue is to reduce demand, increase supply or meddle with market forces and bring in rent controls. The main argument against rent controls is that in the short term, the quality of the existing private rented housing supply deteriorates as landlords do not consider it viable to maintain properties where there is an insufficient return on their capital. Landlords are not charities, they are investors and have choices into which asset class they invest. Some of the old rent controlled residential properties around town suffer due to this situation. In the medium to long term, rent controls deter investment into new housing stock completely, as investors lose the confidence that they will achieve an acceptable level of
return on their investment. And investors shy away from investments where governments can change their investment returns depending on the political climate of the day. Another side impact of rent controls in the private rented sector is that those who reside in a rent controlled apartment have a higher valued tenancy than those who do not. This distortion creates unfair inequalities amongst tenants. Thus to avoid rent controls, there needs to be reduced demand or an increased supply of rental property. Recently the Government has announced that it is has bought back the Eastside project for £28m and the land will be made available
The way to tackle the rising rent issue is to reduce demand, increase supply or meddle with market forces and bring in rent controls
for development. Furthermore, in September 2013, the Government announced the tender award for 528 apartments on the Aerial Farm site and 380 apartments on the existing coach park site. This increase in supply in the Government housing sector is to be welcomed and should have some knock on effect into the private rented sector. However, what Gibraltar also needs, in order to limit future rental price growth is for the private rented sector to respond to the housing shortage. This means rolling out the red carpet to developers and funding banks, to support an increase in housing stock, much of which will supply the workers that Gibraltar attracts, with affordable rented accommodation. If Gibraltar cannot increase its supply of rental property, rents will continue to rise, making it increasingly difficult for local employers to attract and retain staff. With just one month to go before Christmas, it would be a shame for Gibraltar to have a sign on its door “No room at the inn”. n Mike Nicholls is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, a member of the Gibraltar Society of Accountants, a member of the Gibraltar Funds and Investment Association and a board member of the Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce. Mike operates the Chesterton estate agency in Gibraltar and runs a real estate investment solutions consultancy.
for rent
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
39
Yacht Scene 2013
Order your copy now!
y
ACHT SCENE ltar Gibra
Order Yacht Scene Sailors’ Guide: £5.00 + p&p (£8.00 total)
SAILORS’ GUIDE • 2012
£5.00
Yacht Scene • • Sailors’ Guide 20 2
Lo
las l At s da Ti Table e n• ns tio stanc Pla ma ur for s • Di rbo l In ble Ha Ta a & de Ti Marin
ca
Please send a cheque made payable to Yacht Scene to
Yacht Scene Sailors’ Guide, PO Box 555, Gibraltar
MAN & VAN
IKEAN Tel: 54008299 40
• Removals • Collections • Deliveries • IKEA Runs • Clearances You name it, we move it!
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
home style
White Stuff W hite is a very dramatic colour. Whether you prefer minimalist, vintage or romantic style, white is always a good choice. There are literally hundreds of shades of white, every colour in the spectrum has a white version of it. Layer shades to create tone-on-tone contrast using textured fabrics, finishes and light. You may think white upholstery is harder to keep clean or it shows dirt quickly. Possibly true, but consider the fabric type you use. In living and family rooms with busy
traffic, consider faux leathers and faux suedes, or white denim slipcovers which are easy to remove and hot wash. White can also visually erase architectural mishaps, exposed ducts, or blemishes – white can camouflage the eyesores. Recognised as the colour of purity, tranquility and natural beauty, white creates a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Calm and inviting, at the end of a hard day it will make you feel like you are in the clouds. n
Layer shades and textures to create warmth and interest — white works equally well in an ultra modern as a shabby chic environment
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
41
Ask the Architect Your structural and design questions answered by Ruth Massias Greenberg of Gamma Concepts www.gamma.gi
Q
I have a small flat — how can I make the rooms look bigger?
There are various techniques which can be used to make your small flat feel bigger. There may be the opportunity to go more open plan and demolish some internal partitions. You will of course have less rooms but the ones you have will be more spacious. You would have to ensure that this works for you as a living space and that the demoli-
42
email your architectural questions to ruth@gamma.gi
Looking to make structural changes to your home or office? Need design advice? Want to know what you can and can’t do? Ruth is here to answer your architectural questions
Creating an open plan environment will make an area seem lighter and more spacious
ASK RUTH
tions comply with planning and building regulations. Using light colours and tones in your small space will help to make it seem larger and more spacious. By choosing soft colours such as light blues and greens, you can ensure that your small space appears larger. These colours and
tones trick your eye into perceiving the small space as bigger because they are more reflective. This reflectiveness makes a small space feel open and airy, which can help to maximise the spacious effect created by natural light. In addition, if you paint your skirting boards and moldings lighter
Consider having light coloured furniture, which complements the walls so it does not “interrupt” the line of vision
than the wall it will make the walls appear set back, which can make a space seem bigger. Another way to make a small space feel bigger is to allow as much natural light into the space as possible. This will to create the feeling that the small space is connected to the large outdoors hence “liberating” the enclosed space. Always try to leave the curtains or blinds open as often as possible as this will increase the amount of natural light and create a larger field of vision for your eye. Being able to see outside will instantly make your small space feel larger. If you do not have a lot of natural light, you can add some creative lighting effects that will replicate natural daylight. Clearing your clutter is also an effective way to make your small space feel larger. Clear and uncluttered rooms will appear bigger than an over-cluttered and disordered room. When decorating a small space, create a focal point. Create one area or feature in the room that will focus the eye and leave the rest of the room as clear as possible. Be sure to arrange furniture items around the room’s focal point so that it focuses people’s vision and creates the perspective of space and clean lines. Choose your furniture sensibly. Try to use multi-functional furniture as much as possible so you can use least space for the most function. For example, instead of a standard coffee table, buy a coffee table with storage underneath the tabletop so you can store items in an already used space. Also, maintain site lines by choosing sofas and chairs with exposed legs or a glass furniture. Consider having light coloured furniture, which complements the walls so it does not “interrupt” the line of vision. By making the items in your small space blend together, you can create the illusion of a larger space. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
advice
property
Q
What is the difference between Planning and Building Control? Do I need both?
Although Town Planning and Building Control are two separate pieces of legislation, most developments will require both Town Planning and Building Control to meet local regulations. Gibraltar’s Town Planning deals with elements of a development such as the appearance of buildings, landscaping, highway access, and the impact that the development will have on the general environment. It relates to the siting, design, and size of the development as well as its impact on neighbouring properties and the surrounding area. In Gibraltar, the Development and Planning Commission must approve all safe and aligns with the necessary plans before any work begins. laws and guidelines. Complying For information on Town Planning, see www. with Gibraltar’s Building Control gibraltar.gov.gi/town-planning-home. legislations is compulsory for new developments as well as While Planning legislations extensions or sometimes refurregulate your development’s en- bishments to existing buildings vironmental and social impacts, or structures. Gibraltar ’s Building Controls Gibraltar ’s Building Regulaassures that your development is tions are concerned with a devel-
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
opment’s construction as well as its structural stability, fire safety, ventilation, hygiene, drainage, and waste disposal. Building Control works with other governmental agencies to inspect these features and provide information about any necessary changes. Building control relates to the actual construction and uses cur-
rent Building Regulations to ensure, by inspection and approval, that the development is safe and complies with governmental standards such as Gibraltar’s Building Rules 2007, which comes under the Public Health Act. For information on building control in Gibraltar, visit www.gibraltar.gov.gi/building-control
43
introducing
words | Frankie Hatton
Agent Sammy
Gibraltar has a reputation for producing interesting and diverse characters, none more so than Sammy Cruz-Armstrong who combines adventure, culture, travel and passion for work across the globe. She has bought an innovative and refreshing approach to real estate in Gibraltar with an infectious enthusiasm and incredible work ethic together with a no bull attitude. 44
Born and raised in Gibraltar, Sammy was schooled at the Loreto Convent up to the age of 12, before completing her studies at the Newhall School, the oldest Roman Catholic School in the UK. After a collection of good ‘O’ levels and 3 ‘A’ levels in Spanish, Business Studies and the History of Art she secured a place at Bristol University to study Spanish and Law. The premature loss of her father some years earlier made the discussion with her mother to defer university for a full academic year slightly more anxious, but Sammy’s ambitious and adventurous flair overcame the practical promise of a three year degree Like most Gibraltarians, Sammy had a good network of family and friends with whom she kept in regular contact. A chance meeting with an old Gibraltarian family opened the way to a move to Madrid. With a good job in place, this is where Sammy’s passion for art and property merged. Most young women would settle for this, but not Sammy; the ‘walkabout’ bug was about to begin. Another anxious discussion with her mother followed, Australia with a friend who had a brother in Sydney, or Mexico? Sammy reflects on the conversation; “To be honest I would dread having that kind of discussion with my two boys Nick and Harvey (19 and 18 years old) — it’s funny how we apply different standards to our own children, but we all do it — my poor mother!” Sammy arrived in Sydney on a six month tourist visa, and within three weeks she had met a man and although wasn’t aware of it at the time they would be married several years later. At the end of her visa she realised she had totally fallen for Oz. “I am proudly Gibraltarian, and there really is no place like home, but I just loved Australia and the people, what could I do! I was going to return to Sydney, as soon as possible.” Back in London she put her secretarial skills to use, saved her money and pestered Australia House in Aldwych on a regular basis Again hard work and determination paid off. The application for the visa status was approved, and back to Oz it was. Sammy slotted straight back into Sydney life, reuniting with a good group of friends. Hard work, both professionally and academically, ensured her place on a prestigious interior design course at the Mary Nielsson School of
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
interior design, Sydney. The next professional move would form Sammy’s property career, as an opportunity arose with the bespoke furniture company Emac & Lawton, and here Sammy gained an invaluable insight into the elite property market, with clients that included Kerry Packer, Iain Murray and Nick Farr-Jones. During the ensuing six years Sammy married the Aussie she had met three weeks into her first Australian adventure. Subsequently her husband was offered a transfer to London with the same insurance firm he was working for in Sydney, so with a fiveweek old son they packed and moved back to London. Sammy’s biggest regret was leaving behind her beloved Sydney property. “The system we choose to sell our house in Australia was to go to auction, a very stressful, unnerving, yet fast outcome to selling property.” The London relocation didn’t quite go according to plan, her husband’s job was stressful, they had a newborn, a new house and Sammy was pregnant with her second child. What to do? Surely relocate back to Sydney! Her husband’s position al-
lowed an easy transfer back to Oz but house prices had risen so dramatically that they had to start from scratch. In true Sammy fashion, every cloud has a silver lining; they purchased quite literally a shack on the beach. With her young children in tow, Sammy set about completely renovating and redesigning the plot and creating a dream home. Friends and professionals alike encouraged Sammy to take this to a new level, by setting up her own property company. The business model was new — take on a property which is struggling to sell and regenerate it over a six week period, both internally and externally, for a fee in order to maximise its possible sales potential at auction. T h e b u s i n e s s w e n t f ro m
strength to strength, and gave Sammy a true insight into property sales. A busy office, extensive property portfolio and hectic timetable sounded like an ideal business women’s diary, though unfortunately not everything was rosy. Her home life had suffered, so without question Sammy and her husband decided to up sticks once again and relocate their family to Sammy’s home, Gibraltar. After 20 years away and a rapturous welcome home, Sammy settled her family in, and embarked on another adventure, though this time slightly closer to home! Cruz-Armstrong design was commissioned to purchase and develop prime commercial/ residential space in Tangier, Morocco. The entire project was hers, from locating and purchasing the
The business model was new — take on a property which is struggling to sell and regenerate it over a six week period, both internally and externally, for a fee in order to maximise its possible sales potential at auction
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
premises, project managing the building site, to proudly opening the new international law firm. She speaks fondly of the time: “With my family life and boys much more settled I was lucky enough to be allowed to embark on such a project. It reignited the passion and drive that I had for property development. It certainly wasn’t easy, it took up nearly two years of my life and can honestly say nearly killed me. One thing I can say, this project in Tangiers honed my haggling skills! “Being away for so long really made me appreciate Gibraltar as a place, somewhere I proudly call home. The opportunities are now here, we really are at the forefront of international business. It’s not just Gibraltar’s geographical position that is so prominent and the potential is endless.” And so onto the next chapter — she was head-hunted by Kristina Szekley to manage her real estate office in Gibraltar. What a challenge. After two years of successfully running Sothebys International Realty, Sammy has gone one step further than others, she has acted upon her beliefs and two years ago engaged in
45
lengthy talks with Savills, the internationally renowned real estate company. “I decided to approach Savills in the UK, a very reputable property firm and asked about becoming part of their international franchising. It was a long a complex procedure but after several visits and presentations they accepted my proposals and our current Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo very kindly opened our office in Irish Town in February 2012. The changes in Gibraltar have been substantial, but there are aspects of the real estate market that are flagging in comparison to our European counterparts,” she states with some conviction. “The industry as a whole in Gibraltar is still very much in its embryonic stage. If we are to entice investors to Gibraltar the property service industry must work together to improve our professional legislation and regulatory standards. We are fortunate that thankfully our clients, locally and through the global Savills network, know the brand and our reputation for trust and excellence.” Sammy is known for her larger than life personality, Fred the
46
Sammy and the boys!
dog often in tow, and there office buzzing with creativity. She is also renowned for her sense of fun and her professionalism. Dealing
with Sammy is always refreshing as her directness provides clients with a honest view of the Gibraltar market and a reasoned opinion
of each individual property. She has been the driving force behind the burgeoning success of Savills Gibraltar. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
he specialises in residential sales and lettings. When he’s not in the office, you will find him doting on his two children, riding his old Ducati or watching his beloved Arsenal. n
The Savills Gibraltar team: Laura Green, Director Sammy Cruz-Armstrong, Jeremy Boyd and Kylie Sene
Meet the Savills Gibraltar Team Savills Gibraltar is an international associate of Savills, a global real estate services provider listed on the London exchange. We have an international network of more than 500 offices and associates throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, offering a broad range of specialist advisory, management and transactional services to clients all over the world. The Savills brand, with its distinctive logo, is a major presence in the international property industry. With Gibraltar’s international presence growing, a distinctive brand like Savills is very conducive to the Gibraltar property market.
The Team Savills Gibraltar prides itself on a genuine honest approach to business; we candidly believe that old fashioned team values are more important than ever. Clients of Savills will find that our drive and dynamism are a real part of the way our team does business. Our team provides a comprehensive range of services to landlords, tenants, developers and investors alike. Perhaps our strongest suit is the art of negotiation, not least because we
strive to hire the best people in the industry. n
Jeremy Boyd Jeremy has over 20 years’ experience in residential sales and lettings. After being relocated by Norwich and Peterborough in 1997, Jeremy spent 10 years managing and developing N&P Estates. Jeremy developed their broad range of mortgage products, supervised the day to day running of the office and implemented the management of property portfolios. It was from here he was head-hunted by Chesterton where he remained for 5 years before joining Savills. He now manages the Gibraltar office where
Laura Green Laura comes from a Military family with long standing connections to Gibraltar. Born in Gibraltar, Laura spent much of her childhood in Germany before graduating in Sports Science from Oxford Brooks University. Her passion for sport and interest in business propelled her into the sports marketing world before moving to Savills Gibraltar. Having moved back to Gibraltar Laura practised what she preached by buying a flat in town. Her interest for property has grown and she now hopes to complete a master’s degree in property development. Laura has a single-figure golf handicap, so when she’s not in the office you will probably find her on the golf course. n
photos: Yvonne Smiddy
The Office Located right in the heart of town, Savills Gibraltar offers the full range of property
services. Our services range from residential and commercial sales and lettings through to property management, marketing and acquisition. Through our advice, our property management capabilities and the transactional services we provide, we help our clients to fulfil their real estate needs – whatever and wherever they are.
Kylie Sene Kylie has been working for Savills Gibraltar since the doors opened 2 years ago. After completing her A levels at Westside School, Kylie landed the position as Savills administrator. Kylie is the first port of call for all Savills clients, her excellent communication skills, professional attitude and bubbly personality have made her a firm favourite with clients and colleagues alike. Kylie takes charge of all aspects administrative and clerical and ensures the day to day running of the office is efficient and effective. Kylie is avid football fan, participating in the local ladies league both as a player and a coach. When she is not playing she is supporting her favourite football club, Liverpool. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
47
health& fitness Bell Pharmacy
Your Family Chemists
Here to help you by answering all your pharmaceutical questions Consult us at 27 Bell Lane Tel: 200 77289 Fax: 200 42989
McTimoney Chiropractor Gentle holistic treatment for all back or muscular problems and sports injuries Gillian Schirmer MA, DC, MMCA Clinic (Claudia’s), 1st Floor, 58 Main Street Tel: 200 41733 or after hours: 200 40026
STEINER CHIROPRACTIC CLINICS
Chiropractic Health Clinic
Dr Carsten Rudolf Steiner BSc DC
Dr Steven J. Crump B.Sc, DC, MCC Open: Mon - Fri 9.30am - 6.30pm
Member of the British Chiropractic Association
Back to better health with Chiropractic for headaches, dizziness, neck and lower back pain, sciatica, osteoathritis and sports injuries. College Clinic, Regal Hse. Tel: 200 77777
health & medical directory CHEMISTS
Bell Pharmacy 27 Bell Lane Tel: 200 77289 Fax: 200 42989
PASSANO OPTICIANS LTD British Registered Optometrists
38 Main St Tel: 200 76544 Fax: 200 76541 Email: passano@sapphirenet.gi
Louis’ Pharmacy Unit F12, International Commercial Centre, Casemates. Tel: 200 44797
ChiropraCtors
Dr Steven J. Crump BSc, DC, MCC ICC F5C 1st Flr, Casemates. Tel: 200 44226 Gillian Schirmer MA, DC, MMCA McTimoney Chiropractor, Clinic (Claudia’s), 1st Flr, 58 Main St Tel: 200 41733 After hours: 200 40026
Treatment of Back Pain, Neck Pain, Headaches, Limb Pain & Sports Injuries
Dr Carsten Rudolf Steiner BSc, DC Steiner Chiropractic Clinics, College Clinic, Regal House Tel: 200 77777
Tel: 200 44226
ICC Suite F5C 1st Floor, Casemates, Gibraltar Member of British Chiropractic Association
Hypnotherapy
Rose Favell Central Clinic, Horse Barrack Lane. Tel: + 34 655 699 841 www.hypnotherapygibraltar.com
Health Clubs
Atlantic Suites Health Club & Spa Tel: 200 48147 Ocean Village Health Club Tel: 200 44242
Health Stores The Health Store 5 City Mill Lane. Tel: 200 73765 Holland & Barrett 160 Main Street
Now at Unit F5, 1st Floor, ICC Isabella Jimenez, Sports Therapist (BSc Hons) Tel: 54002226 Email: sportongib@gmail.com
HEARING CENTRE
Oigamas Hearing Centre Unit S3h 2nd Floor, ICC Casemates Square Tel: 200 63644 Email: info@oigamas.com
Opticians / Optometrists Gache & Co Limited 266 Main Street. Tel: 200 75757 L. M. Passano Optometrist 38 Main Street. Tel: 200 76544
PERSONAL TRAINERS
Simon Coldwell Complete Fitness Unit G3, Eliott Hotel Tel: 200 51113
Primary Care Centre 2nd Floor International Commercial Centre Casemates
Weekend & Public Holiday Opening Hours (use Irish Town entrance) Saturday: 9am - 11am, 5pm - 6pm Sunday & Public Holidays: 10am - 11am, 5pm - 6pm
48
Isabella Jimenez BSc (hons) Unit 5, 1st Floor, ICC Tel: 54002226 email: jimenez.isabella@gmail.com
SPECIALISTS
Need somebody to talk to?
Specialist Medical Clinic 1st Floor International Commercial Centre, Casemates. Tel: 200 49999
7 days a week 5pm-9pm
Dr Vricella, Cosmetic Surgeon College Clinic, Regal House Tel: + 34 951 276 748
GIBRALTAR GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE MAGAZINE •• NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 2013 2013
well-being health here’s health
l
Open Sesame Not only are sesame seeds a great source of manganese and copper, but they are also a good source of calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin B1, zinc and dietary fiber. In addition, sesame seeds contain two unique substances: sesamin and sesamolin, both of which belong to a group of special beneficial fibers called lignans, shown to have a cholesterol-lowering effect in humans, and to prevent high blood pressure and increase vitamin E supplies in animals. Sesamin has also been found to protect the liver from oxidative damage.
vive la différence October was Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a chance to spread awareness of people with Down’s Syndome and celebrate their abilities. Local photographer Bianca Baglietto decided to celebrate this locally with Mara Mahtani, a beautiful six year old girl from Gibraltar, who attends St Martin’s school. Local retailer F&F agreed to sponsor the photo shoot and put three photos in their children’s clothes shop. Beautiful Mara arrived at the park ready to be photographed, dressed in her new F&F clothes. She excitedly clutched her favourite picture, one of her and Disney’s Cinderella. Chatting to her family and her beloved Grandparents, Mara got down to the exhausting task of modelling. With Bianca snapping away in the background, Mara did what she does best — being Mara. The results speak for themselves and her lovely personality shines through in the images. As the
Copper is known for its use in reducing some of the pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis while studies have supported magnesium’s usefulness in preventing the airway spasm in asthma, lowering high blood pressure, preventing the trigeminal blood vessel spasm that triggers migraine attacks, and restoring normal sleep patterns in women who are experiencing unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause. Calcium helps prevent colon cancer, osteoporosis, migraine and PMS Another reason to make zinc-rich foods such as sesame seeds a regular part of their healthy way of eating is bone mineral density — the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found a clear correlation between low dietary intake of zinc, low blood levels of the trace mineral, and osteoporosis at the hip and spine. Sesame seeds have a high phytosterol content, Phytosterols are believed to reduce blood levels of cholesterol, enhance the immune response and decrease risk of certain cancers.
shoot came to the end her brothers Miles and Morgan both came up to give her a hug. As the only girl in her family, with her sweet personality, she obviously brings great joy to her family and friends. Bianca hopes the images she has produced will increase local awareness of this syndrome and bring happiness through her photos. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
49
When I am clear what the patient would like and that the expectations of the patient are realistic I then explain the procedure in detail. Using illustrations, I make clear to the client the details of the procedure. Patients are encouraged to ask any questions they have and are given as much time as they need. Tell us about the implants you use I use cohesive silicone gel implants that are FDA (Food & Drug Administration, USA) approved; as I feel that they provide the highest quality. They also give a natural result and in the very unlikely situation of a rupture the gel remains stable and does not spread into the surrounding tissue. How do you decide on the breast size for each client and how do you come to that recommendation? It is very important for me to first of all to ask what cup size and shape the patient is hoping to achieve. Through a clinical examination of the patient I can establish whether those expectations can be fulfilled and using accurate measurements of the breasts I choose which implants to use in order to achieve the best result. Where are the scars? When I insert the implants there are 3 incision sites that I can use; in the axilla (armpit); in the infra-mammary fold; or around the areola.In addition the implant can be placed behind or on top of the muscle. These clinical decisions are based on what is best for the client. How long do implants last? Theoretically the new generation of implants are made to last a lifetime. However the patient must be aware that breast size, shape and position will change over time which often prompts ladies to change implants sometime in the future to improve the appearance of the breasts. Talk us through the aftercare and recovery Generally, a sports bra is worn for the first four weeks post-operatively during which time, heavy lifting/upper body exercise is not allowed. Most of the swelling reduces in the first two to three weeks and usually the patient can resume driving in the second week. Damien Moore, the Specialist Nurse, sees each patient at 1 week post operatively at their home in Gibraltar and I see them at two weeks, when non-absorbable stitches are removed if present. All patients, regardless of the procedure they have undertaken, are able to call either myself or Damien Moore, interview | Dr. Marco Vricella, Cosmetic Surgeon 24 hours a day following surgery if they need to. At Aria we consider post-operative care to be as important as the procedure itself and Tell us about the free consultation at Dr. Marco Vricella is Chief patients are seen regularly over the course College Clinic Cosmetic Surgeon at Aria I consult at least twice a month at College of the first year and beyond to monitor their Clinic and for breast augmentation, as with all progress. n Medical Group, is a Member of types of surgery, the consultation is designed the Gibraltar Medical Board and to give patients the opportunity to find out ex- If you want to find out more, then Dr. Vricella regularly consults in Gibraltar. This actly what can be achieved for them with cos- holds free consultations at College Clinic, Regal surgery. I take time to assess patient’s House, Gibraltar every 2 weeks – for dates and to month we ask him about the most metic needs and suitability for the proposed proce- book an appointment please call + 34 951 276 748 dure. After taking a detailed medical history, or email: info@ariamedicalgroup.com popular procedure in Gibraltar, I examine the breasts, discuss the patient’s exwhich is Breast Augmentation. pectations and explain what can be achieved. www.ariamedicalgroup.com
Breast Augmentation
Dr Vricella Answers Our Questions
50
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
health & well being
5 Star Pampering for Your Skin... Get treated like the rich and famous in the ICC? That’s right, there is a luxury skin spa here in Gibraltar with 5 star products to make your skin positively glow. Susan Rhoda trained as an aesthetics nurse in Wigmore Street, London after working for many years in the GHA in palliative care, lymphoedema management and practice development. Three years ago Susan set up SAS (Susan’s Aesthetic Service) at the Specialist Medical Clinic (SMC) in the International Commercial Centre and the range of luxury skin care treatments have blossomed ever since. “Last November exclusive Swiss skin care company Valmont approached me to collaborate to offer their range of products and treatments which are used by the rich and famous. I began training in February and took on a partner, Carole Sharrock. The spa rooms were launched in March and formally opened in July by the Governor and Chief Minister. Valmont joins skin care products Neostrata, Medika8, and Vitality Institute already in use at the spa.” SAS offers a professional range of treatments
including sclerotherapy, working closely with the Vascular Surgeon, David Deardon, one of the SMC owners. Susan offers skin care advice, treatments and improvements from minimizing the appearance of wrinkles, and reducing hyperpigmentation (age/sun spots). The swishly fitted out mini spa aims to offer a relaxing escape from the world so a session is not just a treat for your skin, but a place to relax your whole body and mind. “Lunchtime peels are great for freshing a day or two before a party,” Susan explains,
“and dermal rolling is a very popular treatment — good for tightening pores, stimulating collagen production, with the ongoing use of retinol and vitamin C and vitamin B5 serums. Also exclusive to SAS in Gibraltar is the luxury perfume brand, Il Profumo, sold in England only at the Dorchester in London, and the Urban Retreat in Harrods.” Ideal for a pampering gift to yourself or a loved one. n Pop into the SMC on 1st floor of the ICC to collect the SAS brochure or to book a treatment call 200 49999. You can talk to Susan on 58008572.
Susan Rhoda, BN, RGN • Aesthetics Nurse • Lymphoedema Care • Venous Surgical Team • Urology Clinic Specialist Medical Clinic Ist Floor, International Commercial Centre, Grand Casemates Square, Gibraltar Tel: +350 20049999 Mobile:+350 5800 8572 +34 662 535 618 susanrhoda@hotmail.com www.susanskincaregibraltar.com
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
51
BREAST REDUCTION: Regaining balance and proportion in your figure and lots of self confidence
We talk to Susana, 37, who has had a breast reduction and is now once again enjoying a pain-free life. Susana, living in Gibraltar, had large breasts which caused her severe neck and backache, whilst her bra straps cut into her shoulders and she had skin irritation under the breasts, especially in hot weather. Susana was a size 16 on top and a size 10 on the bottom, so she felt very ‘top heavy’ and embarrassed by her breast size. She explains, “I had been considering breast reduction surgery for ten years but kept putting it off. A friend of mine recently had a breast reduction with Dr. Marco Vricella”. Having a breast reduction, or ‘reduction mammoplasty’ can help women like Susana regain balance in their figure; reduce or eliminate associated back and neck pain; make exercise easier, remove
46
skin irritation and significantly improve self-confidence. After Susana had spoken to Dr. Marco Vricella and had been fully informed about the procedure, such as what to expect, the benefits, the potential risks, recovery time and healing, she felt confident to proceed. “When I arrived at Marbella’s HC International Hospital, from the offset I was looked after wonderfully by the nursing staff who speak both English and Spanish” says Susanna.
Free Consultations If you want to find out more, then Dr. Vricella holds free consultations at College Clinic, Regal House, Gibraltar every 2 weeks – for dates and to book an appointment please call:
+ 34 951 276 748 or email: info@ariamedicalgroup.com
www.ariamedicalgroup.com Find us on: Facebook, Twitter & LinkedIn too. Some of our most popular procedures: + Breast Augmentation + Breast Uplift (Mastopexy) + Breast Reduction
“I was visited at home in Gibraltar the following week by Damien Moore, Aria’s Specialist Nurse, and Louise Truelove, the Patient Care Co-Ordinator; and the following week I saw Dr. Vricella again at College Clinic” confirms Susanna. “Now I’m so much more confident in myself and I know it sounds like a cliché, but I really wish I’d done it years ago!”
+ Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) + Liposuction + Face Lifts + Eyebag Removal (Blepharoplasty) + Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery) + Cosmetic Dentistry
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013
a , s t
.
Because You’re Beautiful! + Breast Augmentation + Breast Uplift + Breast Reduction + Tummy Tuck + Liposuction + Facial Injections + Face Lifts + Eyebag Removal + Rhinoplasty + Cosmetic Dentistry
Book your FREE consultation
(+34) 951 276 748 in English (+34) 671 639 353 in English (+34) 662 936 058 en Español e: info@ariamedicalgroup.com When choosing your surgeon check their credentials. They should be registered with the UK General Medical Council (GMC), the Spanish CGM and also on the UK Specialist Register of Plastic Surgeons (SRPC).
/kAÄ ½ÄÌ ÀlÎ Äw And best wishes for 2013 to all our valued clients!
re a c r e t f A E E R F re a c r e t f A E E R F
www.ariamedicalgroup.com GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JUNE 2013
47
Women on Top...
words | Elena Scialtiel
From zebra crossings to the registry of sex offenders, from hand railings to school hours and exams re-sittings, this small but determined army of women is on top of anything and everything that needs sorting out to better Gibraltar’s day-to-day lifestyle as a community of families. Apolitical and non-confessional, the Gibraltar Women’s Association is a group of homemakers, but not necessarily housewives, who lobby the relevant authorities on issues about society, focusing on children and vulnerable adults. They work pretty much in the shadows, the unsung heroes of many successes — and sometimes others take credit. But these women don’t seek glory and fame: they just want the job done, and won’t rest until they get those with the power to actually do it! Being frontline troopers, they survey the territory and experience most problems first hand or when they are brought to their attention by others they bump into during their daily chores. School run, grocery shopping and playgrounds are the greatest places to start a civic revolution. They watch the elderly hasten at pelican crossings when the beeping is too parsimonious with dear
54
seconds of green light to anyone who isn’t a sprinter; they demand zebra crossings for hazardous junctions; they ring up the relevant department when they see playgrounds’ bins overflowing. Most of all, they are always available to hear other people’s concerns on health and safety, or just common sense, and rev up to approach the proper channels. Chairwoman Cathy Earle, a busy super-mum of seven, takes pride in following protocol on all issues. She writes letters to the pertinent Ministry and requests meetings. “No, I don’t stalk them in the street or barge into their office unannounced! Pestering will take me nowhere. Of course, when
replies take too long, I do a bit of nudging with gentle reminders and rounds of phone calls,” she smiles mischievously. The gentle approach seems to work well, as Cathy, like a novel Cyrano de Bergerac, suggests to the Man the best rhymes to woo Gibraltar from behind a red velvet curtain; and while they get the applause, she builds a brighter future for her (and everyone else’s) children, quite literally brick by brick. If children are the Women’s Association’s priority, action and protection doesn’t stop at playground refurbishment, school gates opening hours or tie-less school uniforms: it takes into con-
Most of all, they are always available to hear other people’s concerns on health and safety, or just common sense, and rev up to approach the proper channels
sideration the serious and more sinister issues of an ever-changing society and looks into taking on board international legislation on serious matters like paedophilia and rape. Concerned by the number of cases recently brought to justice, quite worrying for a small community deemed ‘closed knitted and safe’ where denial is widespread, the Association is calling for a Sex Offenders’ Registry in Gibraltar, to alert adults and protect the most vulnerable. The issue is thorny because of Gibraltar’s size which would lead to inevitable finger-pointing, but then again its very size doesn’t guarantee that offenders are effectively kept from mixing with potential victims. Furthermore, studies have proven that sex offenders are more likely to reoffend than any other convicted criminal — and early signs are more difficult to detect.
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
community The Women’s Association also supports counselling made available to sex offenders or those who fear they may have an inclination, before it is triggered. Cathy and her committee are also in favour of thorough international background checks on anyone applying for a job or for volunteer work with minors or vulnerable adults: “Local checks are already in place, but what if someone has lived overseas? How can we rule out them being a risk? And this works only if they are or were caught, because we all know how hard it is to prove someone guilty of a sex-related offence...” A serious matter, in the light of the news of sightings of an alleged Spanish paedophile around primary schools that is spreading through social media, unsure whether to spark a national witch hunt or genuinely alert parents. Cathy has words of praise for all Ministers, from the late Charles Bruzon, with who the association worked closely to improve the cleanliness of common areas and maintenance in Mid Harbour Estate, to Samantha Sacramento, with who they are discussing fairer options for minors in care when they turn 18, and incentives
to appeal to families to look into fostering children to raise them with their own children and give them domestic stability for as long as required. Cathy is quite pleased with what was achieved last year, their participation in the Jubilee Year celebrations in particular, as well as the unveiling of a tribute plaque to the association. Since its inception as the Housewives’ Association, the founders and hardcore supporters have banned all men from membership, at the cost of being labelled sexist. Still, much has to be achieved to turn Gibraltar into a Mediterranean Shangri-La. One of their hardest battles to fight is, believe it or not, the display of easy-readable and colour-coded signage at St. Bernard’s Hospital, where long scientific words may confuse. Then we have ‘traffic’ seeming
Underage drinking causes apprehension to the GWA, who are still licking their wounds after their surprise defeat on the age of consent
to be Gibraltar ’s Holy Grail in everyone perception: besides zebra crossings and traffic lights, the association is chasing Traffic Minister Paul Balban to work towards a project of a rationalisation of the taxi system and the implementation of a night bus on weekends to shuttle kids and drunken adults back home from Casemates and Ocean Village. Speaking of which, underage drinking causes distressing apprehension to the GWA, who are still licking their wounds after their surprise defeat on the muchdebated age of consent, which was set at 16 by Government and sparked Cathy’s crusade for a popular petition to raise it to 18. This may feel like the Battle of Trafalgar to her, but there’s still plenty of lobbying to do about a sensitisation campaign for responsible drinking and sex amongst teenagers. It’s not because they can at 16, that they must at 16: the association says they should be educated to spare some things for later in life. n Anyone wishing to join the Gibraltar Women’s Association please visit their page on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.
In the Pink The Pink Party, this year held at Bruno’s, was really well supported by the Breast
Cancer Support Group members, friends and family. The raffle had loads of prizes to give away thanks to many local businesses who support the event every year. Over £1,000 was raised. Thanks to everyone who took part. The next event is the Candle Lit Mass, at 5.30pm at the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned on Saturday 23rd November 2013. See you there!
Skin Tag & Thread Vein Removal Laser Clinic Permanent Hair removal Pigmentation and anti-aging Visiting Surgeon varicose veins, sebaceous cysts, innovative haemorrhoid surgery Cosmetic Surgeon Breast implants and augmentation, face-lifts, tummy tucks
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
55
photo finish
A local musician walking down Main Street spots a man with long sleek black hair towering over the crowd. He yells: “Hey, Mr Vaughn!” The mysterious man cringes: “Who is it? Do I owe someone money?” This isn’t the opening line of the latest Yanito joke, but the beginning of yet another fairytale for Gibraltar’s live music circuit. Thanks to Reach lead singer Giles Ramirez who shared a London stage with him in the early ’90s, Gibraltar has secured New Jersey hard rock band Tyketto’s lead singer and worldwide celebrity Danny Vaughn for a spell of musical co-operations with local artists, such as Giles himself and Craig Macdonald, besides treating Lord Nelson and O’Reilly’s pubs to a fortunate series of low-key acoustic gigs. As talented as he is unpretentious, Danny Vaughn perches on a stool and lets his clear, deep, smooth and versatile voice gently resound above cutlery clangours and stir-fry sizzlings, to deliver solo acoustic sets to patrons during happy hour on Wild Wednesdays or Soulful Sundays, not bothered if they don’t recognise him as the rock legend he truly is — or ‘veteran’ if you wish. He is happy when he notices toes tapping and hands clapping at his country-like covers of popular hits accompanied by nothing but his guitar. “Playing a stadium filled with thousands of people is easy,” he says, “playing for 20-30 people isn’t: you make eye contact and know immediately if you have engaged them or not. Sometimes I feel like I am playing to myself, but that’s OK: I am a guitarist, and every gig is good practise. “I am not bothered if they don’t know who I am, but I am pleased when they do. Surely I was surprised when Giles called out my name, amazed someone in this part of the world had a clue who I was and still remembered me from when we performed on the same bill so many years ago. I don’t get screaming fans in Gibraltar, but if
photo: Jessica Patel
e t a m i t l U The . . . o r e H r a t Gui
words | Elena Scialtiel
56
GIBR GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Tyketto on stage
fans are from a younger generation, it is quite nice to realise I’ve still got it.” So what brought the founder and frontman of Tyketto (and several other bands before and after that) to our shores, strumming almost ‘busker style’ in pubs, after having rocked the stages of countless international festivals? “A woman! It’s always a woman!” Danny cries out, with a beaming smile. “I flew south in 2008 to meet Melissa, who used to work in Gibraltar at the time. I fell in love with her, and Southern Spain. I’d lived in Ireland for four years and I couldn’t take the rain any more!” Danny moved to Estepona, married Melissa in 2009 — one of his own fairytale endings — and got involved with Spanish bands like Airless and The Smokers, Mago de Oz and Burning Kingdom, and founded the tribute band The Ultimate Eagles four years ago. With the Ultimates he is always on the road (“It’s amazing how popular the Eagles still are!” he says) as they played most Harley Davidson summer events. Madrid-based hard rock band Burning Kingdom features Danny as their lead singer in the single Watching As It Burns, lifted from their just released third full-length album Simplified. The video features a hairy bunch of tattooed rockers swivelling their manes and setting a skyscraper’s penthouse literally on fire, while unfazed
black-clad Danny delivers powerful lyrics in classic (and classy) rock style and dark glam charm. When he is not busy recording or touring, Danny is the ultimate boy next door, enjoying his life as a ‘musician’ and not a ‘rock star’, as he likes to define himself. He elaborates: “I never understood the diva-tantrum cliché: it’s not like we want all the blue M&Ms picked out of the bowl or something! What we really want when we’re touring is just three reasonable things — a hot shower, a decent meal and a bed.” Being a musician is a continual learning curve: “I’m learning jazz now, which is not something I grew up with. In my youth cover rock bands were it: guitarists had to be real good to play Ozzy, Van Halen, Journey, AC/DC. I was discovered by chance and, thanks to a friend of a friend of a friend etc, I auditioned for Waysted, a band named after UFO bassist Pete Way, which was casting a new lead singer. So I debuted on the big stage, in front of 15,000 fans in Israel, where I was pretty much told something like “if you man-
age to crack it there, you are in the band, kid!”’ And so the kid who had first picked up a guitar because it was “a great way to crash parties and meet girls” got his baptism of fire in the Holy Land, went on to open for Iron Maiden and Status Quo, and wrote his first album Save Your Prayers in 1986. When Waysted disbanded, serial band-starter (“oh, I started many many many bands!” he jokes), Danny, fell into depression and soon put a new band together. They had their album ready when they were signed by a major record label, but they hadn’t yet come up with a name for the band. Until one day they saw the word Tyketto spray-painted on a Brooklyn wall and adopted it as their war cry: “It’s a bit Japanese sounding, if you like, but also comes very close to te quiero in Spanish.” Danny rocked endless performances since that fateful day when he was just that ‘hyper’ little boy assigned a castrati solo part within his school choir’s religious recital at a local church: “Wonderful setting, wonderful acoustics
So what brought the founder and frontman of Tyketto (and several other bands before and after that) to our shores? A woman! It’s always a woman!
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
“
”
and all that, but when I started singing, I noticed that the people in the audience were craning their necks to see where that acute voice was coming from, because I was so small they couldn’t spot me amongst my peers...” There and then he decided what he wanted to do when he grew up — and when puberty kicked in, he dropped the chorister act and enjoyed the full-bodied rock voice and looks that made him one of the most prominent ‘tall, dark and handsome’ lead singers in heavy metal history. Danny is proud of having made his living as a musician for over 20 years, and is definitely not retiring yet. He is actually planning a Tyketto reunion for next spring, and would like to tour his solo discography around Spain’s cities — to include Estepona, so it would be the first gig he can actually walk to from his home! Danny hosts his own show on Firebrand Rock Radio, Me and My Big Mouth, too. Speaking of radio, he laments how local broadcasters don’t afford enough air time to homegrown musicians, at least this is the impression he gathered by speaking to several members of this ‘little tribe’. And commenting on music marketing, he suggests that Gibraltar should have a proper music store, to spare them the trouble of travelling miles to purchase or repair their instruments. n
57
seasonal something
Thursday 28th November 12 noon - 7pm
The Convent Christmas Fair This year’s Convent C hristmas Fair will boast over 40 seasonal stalls, many of which are run by local charities as part of their own fund-raising efforts. The usual range of products will be available including plants, cards, gifts, cakes, craft and many Christmas items.
58
Mince pies and mulled wine will be kindly provided by the Red Cross Committee to warm you through and put you firmly in mind of the festive season whilst being serenaded with carols from 5.30pm performed by Sacred Heart Middle School. Santa is also sure to be found in his grotto! The main raffle is already fit to bursting with generous prizes from local sponsors and one lucky winner will be speeding away with an early present from Santa of a fabulous Honda Vision 110cc motorcycle. This year the main beneficiary will be Cancer Relief Gibraltar with most of the proceeds going towards running their new centre at South Barrack Road. Additionally there will be a contribution towards PAAMOA — Physical Activities Association for Mature Older Adults — and a small sum will go towards assisting Girlguiding Gibraltar with a community project. Go along on Thursday 28th November, get yourself firmly into the festive spirit while supporting your local community and charities and grab yourselves some Christmas goodies and festive cheer. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
ils
ta
De
s&
m
dT er
an
iti
Co nd
n
on si
re .
sto
e
pr
ize
dr aw
Ro Sp ya en f or l C W d ov 2 ari IN er £3 w b 5 or b e a an d th a be n en £ 2, Cr te re 50 ui d fo 0! se rt h
227 - 229 Main Street Gibraltar Tel: +350 200 49544 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • OCTOBER 2013
53
Masters of Illusion NORBERT FERRE Born in marseilles (France) Norbert discovered conjuring by accident at the age of 11, It was love a first sight. Norbert is a member of the Inner magic circle and has been awarded the Golden mandrake, magics biggest accolade. Norbert has performed his act in more than 65 Countries, An his act has won him the more coveted distinction in the magic world. Grand Prix, world champion of Magic.
“Witness the Impossible” this Christmas. Masters of Illusion’s brand new show comes to the Ince’s Hall Theatre in December. The fifth edition of this magical experience will see World Champion of Magic Norbert Ferré headlining. There will be a great mix of magic and a cast to make sure you don’t blink all night... This year there are five nights of performances so make sure you don’t miss your chance to enjoy this show with amazing international acts. This is an event for all the family with profits donated to the GBC Open Day. n
ALEXANDER G A young magician with a very creative and different act infact we can’t even begin to explain what he does but it really is spectacular. Make sure you don’t blink!
Shows from 12th - 15th December at Ince’s Hall Theatre. Matinees on 14th and 15th at 3pm & evening shows from 12th - 14th at 7pm. Tickets are £10 and £12 — on sale at Chique Boutique, Ocean Village
NUEL Following a standing ovation performance in Gibraltar last year with his CD & Laser show Nuel is back by popular demand with new mind-blowing acts.
FASTER THAN MAGIC Our local illusionist and organisers of this event are back with brand new illusions. They’ve worked hard all year to bring you their most innovative inventions yet.
BERKO A performer who takes traditional magic and turns it on its head. He delivers a dynamic and enchanting performance. We think he went to hogworts.
60
KARLUS Award winning comedy magic based around the famous magician of years gone by. Karlus takes a journey back in time to “Thurstons” dressing room as he prepares magically for a performance.
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
nd
e Sp
ils
ta
De
s&
m
er dT
an
i nd Co
ns tio
in
. re sto
e is w ra ru ! a n C 00 rize d IN ea 2,5 the p W ibb h ÂŁ d for ar rt tere l C wo e en ya r 2 nd b Ro fo ÂŁ35 a
er ov
227 - 229 Main Street Gibraltar Tel: +350 200 49544
Maiju’s Fire & Ice Art lovers are in for a treat this month: the Casemates Fine Arts Gallery features the much anticipated solo exhibition of Finnish artist Maiju Tirri, the adjudicator for the Jubilee Year Spring Art Exhibition. 62
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Maiju’s new collection is titled Metamorphosis, a tribute to the personal connection between the ices of her native Finland and the fires of Andalusia. In fact, Maiju moved to this part of the world two years ago — packing in her suitcase a 12-year long career as graphic designer and art director, and a lifelong experience as a fine artist. She admits that the idea was chasing the Costa del Sol’s Mediterranean light, mild weather and vibrant art scene, to pursue her full-time painter career, but the core of her contemporary work is rooted in the dramatic textures her native country’s landscapes, blessed with wild forests, lakes and rocky shores, as well as the stark contrast between seasons: “nightless summers” as opposed to “dark, cold winter days and ice-covered waters”. Her icy core shows in most of her conceptual artwork, where metallic winter whites recreate uneven frozen surfaces crackling under the heavy silences and rarefied atmosphere of northern immensities, setting the canvas alive with tiny crevices and mini-icebergs, stirred in oval movements fast solidified into puddles of aseptic stillness. “My philosophy as an artist is to seek harmony and goodness through beauty and grace,” Maiju says. “I have tried to attain this by picturing natural elements filtered through my own mind and feelings. Nature as such is never good or evil. Everything in it is only appropriate. In my works I have chosen Good by putting the emphasis on the positive feelings and attitude in life. I like to give the spectator impressions of joy, happiness and love, and even feelings of calm meditative state, or inspiring flow. Surrounded by those emotions the spectator may feel the moment and eternity simultaneously, e.g. microcosm and macrocosm at the same time.” If her best work is in ‘Ice Queen mode’, Maiju excels in fiery splashes of warm joy breaking out of the rigid scheme of blankness and filling the space with the vibrancy of her new home, from the cerulean hues of Mediterranean skies to the oranges of ripe fruit, the red of gypsy passion, the arid ochre-yellow of desert
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
“
Nature as such is never good or evil. Everything in it is only appropriate. In my works I have chosen Good by putting the emphasis on the positive feelings and attitude in life
”
63
“
Gibraltar inspires me as an artist mostly for its nature. When you look at the surface of my paintings, you can see some similarities with the structure of the Rock
”
dunes, and even the dull ache of monochrome outbursts. “Currently I have my own studio at home, where I work hard; at least, I try to... Results can be seen on its colourfully stained floors and my clothes... but I also managed to get some paint on canvas!” she jokes. “My interest for Gibraltar sparked on my very first visit as a tourist shortly after we moved to Spain. I immediately felt at home in Gibraltar: the cosy English atmosphere I had experienced earlier in my life gave me again the lovely feeling of traditional culture thanks to the smallest detail, like red telephone boxes
and bobbies.” She continues: “Being a very social person I had no difficulties in networking with many people here, and getting introduced to the Ministry of Culture. Then I was asked to judge an art competition for Gibraltarian artists, some of who were really talented with very beautiful works. And now I feel it is a great honour to exhibit at the Fine Arts Gallery and I am very grateful for their invitation.” How does Gibraltar feature in Maiju’s work, then? “Gibraltar inspires me as an artist mostly for its nature. When you look at the surface of my paintings, you can see some similarities
with the structure of the Rock. Especially at twilight, it dons a feeling of mysterious greatness that makes man feel so small. It is amazing how the Rock has kept its natural structure and wildness without giving in to urban pressure. I would like to hope that Nature better stood its ground against mankind’s bullying...” Art ambassador for the Finnish Ministry of the Environment since 2010, Maiju has exhibited, besides her native Finland, in Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, the USA and the UK, in collective and solo events. “My biggest solo exhibition was in London last year, at the Cadogan Contemporary in South Kensington,” she says with pride. This is her first time at centre stage in Gibraltar, where her cutting-edge mixed-media artwork is tipped to attract attention, thanks to its clean lines and versatility that fit equally well in museums and offices as luxury homes. n Metamorphosis is open from 5th to 25th November at the Fine Arts Gallery in Casemates. For a cheeky sneak preview, visit www.maijutirri.com. Maiju’s portrait photo by Touko Hujanen.
THE “WILD BEASTS” OF 1905 Fauvism and French Expressionist Painting
The next Lecture given by the Gibraltar Decorative and Fine Arts Society (DFAS) explores Fauvism and French Expressionist Painting and takes place on November 20th at 7.30pm at the Roof Top Suite in the O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel. At this the second lecture of the new season, members are welcome to arrive at 6.30pm for a drink and a chat and to meet the familiar speaker, Frank Woodgate, a lecturer and guide at Tate Britain and Tate Modern. This picture (left) by Raoul Dufy, shows a view of the “Bassin de Deauville” during the period when the Windsors were visiting in 1935, and not when the Dockers were there and regattas were held again in the ’50s. At that time after the Occupation, it was amazing to think that this had something to do with the ‘Fauvistes’ or Expressionists of 1895, but Dufy worked right through half a century of turmoil, producing some of the most stunning and patriotic versions of the ‘Bleu, Blanc, Rouge’ thus raising spirits both on the Continent and in Britain. Seemingly oblivious to, and in defiance of two World Wars, exhibitions of such pictures encouraged the renaissance of joie de vivre and foreign travel. Indeed, the French emotional equivalent of German Expressionism was by contrast full of colour and sensuality. Artists such as Matisse and Derain had caused a sensation when their works were exhibited alongside a classicised sculpture in Paris in 1905, a critic referring to it as “Donatello parmis les fauves” (Donatello among the wild beasts), creating the name “Fauvisme”. Le Douanier Rousseau’s painting of a hungry lion with antelope was rumoured to have influenced the movement but, far from terrifying, their legacy has certainly been popular and enduring. Lectures are held on the third Wednesday of the month. For more details contact: Chairman Claus by email: claus.olesen@sghambros.com or Tel: 200 02024
64
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
fashion
leisure & sport
Retail& Activities
shopping & gifts
hair & beauty
Ali’s Make Up Plan
Make Up Artist Face painting for children’s parties M 5800 9284 E ali@makeupplan.com W makeupplan.com
Sacha’s
lessons & tuition
GACHE & CO LTD EST. 1830
• Giftware • Jewellery • Sports Trophies • Awards & Engravers 266 Main St, Gibraltar Tel: 200 75757
travel & hotels
DUTY FREE WINES, SPIRITS & TOBACCO
Health & Beauty Salon
open 7 days 79 Main Street
newsagents/books
HORTICULTURAL CONTRACTORS Tel: 200 43134 Fax: 200 50648 Convent Gardens, Convent Garden Ramp
Queen’s Hotel Gibraltar
• Aromatherapy • Sugar Waxing • Facials • Manicures • Pedicures • Reflexology • Luxury Organic 2hr face & body treatment Open: Mon-Fri 9.30-9 Sat 10-3
Excellent Prices • Centrally Located • Easy Access • Parking • Bar • Restaurant
Don House Arcade Tel: 20077311
Tel: (+350) 20074000 Fax: 20040030
FROST LANGUAGE CENTRE (registered in Gibraltar)
Professional Spanish Teacher All levels, singles, groups or Skype
pets & accessories
Tel: 200 73786
Protect Your Dog Against Fatal Summer Diseases Heartworm, Leishmaniosis, Tickborne Diseases Phone Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic for details 200 77334 Emergency: 8977
Call Margaret Tel: 0034956173384 Mobile: 0034609717296 Email: margaretjf13@gmail.com
photography
Archive editions of The Gibraltar Magazine now available online at www.thegibraltarmagazine.com
GIBRALTAR MAGAziNE • NOVEMBER 2013
65
What’s On November ’13 Friday 1st November International Art Exhibition, John Mackintosh Hall 6.30pm - official opening and prize giving Sunday 3rd November Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association meet Ocean Village 11am - 2pm Monday 4th to Tuesday 12th November International Art Exhibition, John Mackintosh Hall 10.30am - 6.30pm. Entrance free. Wednesday 6th November Art Exhibition by Maiju Tiri at Fine Arts Gallery Casemates Square, 10am to 6pm. Entrance free. For info please the Gallery Tel: 20052126 or email: finearts@gibtelecom.net. See page 62 Poetry Competition Prize Giving at the Gibraltar Garrison Library 4.30pm. Winning Entries will be published in The Gibraltar Chronicle. Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th November Zarzuela – ‘La Rosa del Azafran’ at John Mackintosh Hall Theatre 8pm. Tickets £5 from John Mackintosh Hall Ticket Office 10am to 2pm. Sale of tickets limited to 10 per person. Friday 8th November World Show Dance Championships Presentation organised by the Gibraltar National Dance Organisation 7.30pm at the Tercentenary Sports Hall. Entrance free.
violinist Julie Kurtzman and colleagues from New York City 8pm at The Convent. Organised by the Gibraltar Philharmonic Society. For further info contact 20072134 or email tgpsociety@gibtelecom.net. See page 79 Wednesday 13th to Saturday 16th November Blood Brothers - a Musical by Willy Russell organised by Rock Theatre and Santos Productions 8pm, Ince’s Hall Theatre. Tickets £12. For further info contact Angela Jenkins on bloodbrothers.gibraltar@gmail.com. Thursday 14th November Gun Salute - HRH The Price of Wales’s birthday at Grand Battery 12 noon. For info Tel: 2005001/2 Saturday 16th November Craft & Collectors Fair, St Andrew’s Church – Governor’s Parade 10am to 2pm. Entrance fee £1. Proceeds to the Church Restoration Fund. For further info Tel: 54023166 email: viviend13@hotmail.com Tuesday 19th to Thursday 28th November Antonia Guera – Soto Mayor Photographic Exhibition - Momentos históricos de la provincial de Cádiz, John Mackintosh Hall 10am – 10pm. For info Tel: Mar del Sur +34 657 487 480
Buying Your Kid a Bike words | Ian Walton, Cycle Centre
If you do nothing else when buying a kid’s bike, make sure it’s the right size. It’s better to progress in stages than to fit your child onto the biggest bike they can pedal. Riding a bike that you can’t control because your feet don’t touch the ground and your hands can’t reach the brakes properly is no fun. It’s also dangerous: crashing puts people off — even kids, eventually. Kids’ bikes cover four different stages: Preschool (sub-16 inch wheel), ages four to six (16 inch wheel), ages six to 10 (20 inch) and ages nine to 12 (24 inch). After that, children will be on small adult bikes
Wednesday 20th November place at the Piazza. Performance by Bishop Fitzgerald Choir who will be singing on the day from 6.30pm
Friday 8th and Saturday 9th November
Wednesday 27th to Friday 29th November Charity Comedy Nights organised by William Hill On-Line 9pm. For info Tel: 20002784. Thursday 28th November Convent Christmas Fair at the Convent 12 noon – 7pm. See page 58 Friday 29th November
Comedy Rocks — 1st Gibraltar Comedy Festival featuring Ian Montford, Abandoman and Frisky & Mannish. Organised by Gibraltar Entertainments Network at John Mackintosh Hall Theatre 8pm. Saturday 9th November Gibraltar Botanic Gardens Tour meets George Don Gates (at the south end of Grand Parade) 10.30am. No fee but donations welcome. Tel: 20072639 email: alameda@wildlife.gib.gi Sunday 10th November Remembrance Sunday 12 noon. For further info Tel: 2005001/2 See page 72
Choreography Competition organised by Danza Academy, John Mackintosh Hall Theatre 7.30pm. Tickets £8 on sale at Danza Studio. For info Tel: 54027111 or 54003973 Wednesday 20th November Art Lecture – ‘The Wild Beasts of 1905’ presented by Frank Woodgate, organised by the Gibraltar Decorative and Fine Arts Society at O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel 7.30pm. For info Tel: Claus Olesen 20002024. See page 64
Monday 11th November Armistice Day at Parliament House Lobby 11am For info Tel: 2005001/2 See page 72
Thursday 21st November The History of Gibraltar in Five Parts: Part 5 – History of an Identity. Museum Lecture by Dennis Beiso, 8pm, John Mackintosh Hall Theatre. Entrance free.
Wednesday 13th November A concert of Jazz and Brazilian Music featuring
Friday 22nd November Switching on of the Christmas Lights will take
66
Gibraltar Ornithological & Natural History Society monthly outing: an evening of invertebrates — molluscs, isopods and other nocturnal critters. Meet George Don Gates, Alameda Gardens 8.30pm. For info Tel: 57534000 email: invertebrates@gonhs.org.
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Pre-school Training wheels or stabilisers may become extinct if the newest toddler trend catches on. Run bikes, or push bikes (such as the Giant Pre), introduce little kids to an essential bike skill — balance — by eliminating pedals, gears or brakes. Stabilisers give mobility to children who can’t balance, but they prevent a child from learning to ride a bicycle. Ages 4 to 6 All 16 inch wheel bikes come with a single speed gear and as children of this age won’t be riding far, a single gear is okay. By this age, children can hurtle along, so easily operable brakes are a must. Ages 6 to 10 Gears are the obvious extra with 20 inch wheel bikes, with five or six-speed rear derailleur being the usual. Some 20 inch wheel bikes come with suspension forks. They’ll be basic, with unadjustable springs that nevertheless score credibility points with children. If the bike has a rear derailleur, get a derailleur guard for when the bike is dropped on its side. A kickstand is useful, as kids this age aren’t good at propping their bikes up. Ages 9 to 12 With a 24 inch bike, the next step up usually involves an upgrade in gears to three speed front and seven speed rear derailleur. The specifications usually compare to an adult’s bike at the same price. They normally come with off-road tyres as standard — kids like these and they come in handy if you want to take them riding in the campo.
some taller younger ones — are ready for a small-framed adult bike. Most manufacturers make frames down to 14 inch or 15 inch, and some do 13 inch. The more serious urban or off-road riders may want the smallest frame for Big kids’ bikes Children aged 12 or 13 — and the extra clearance over the top tube, but most
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
teenagers can go straight to 15 inch. Don’t be tempted to put your 9 or 10-yearold on a 13 inch adult frame just because they happen to be able to reach the pedals. They’ll be much better off on a 24 inch-wheel bike as it will be lighter and easier to control. n
67
That Nail Place Nail Extensions DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA DIGITAL CAMERA - MOBILE PHONES - GPS - PDA ACCESSORIES
No. 4 Watergardens - Block 1, PO Box 882 Tel/Fax: +350 200 78600
Gel - Acrylic - Fibreglass
I4
Airbrushing Nail Art Body Jewellery
Unit F22A 1st Floor, ICC. Tel: 200 73211
E6
GACHE & CO LTD EST. 1830
T5
• Giftware • Jewellery • Sports Trophies • Awards & Engravers
L4
266 Main St, Gibraltar Tel: 200 75757
H4
Q4 BUDDIES pasta casa
Come and enjoy real Italian meals in Gibraltar’s leading pasta house
R4
H4
15 Cannon Lane Tel: 200 40627 for reservations
Gibraltar Taxi Association
Gibibikes Stations
D8
GUIDED ROCK TOURS 19 Waterport Wharf Main Office Tel: 20070052 Fax: 20076986 Radio service: 20070027
K4 I4
Sacha’s
DUTY FREE WINES, SPIRITS & TOBACCO open 7 days 79 Main Street
THE TASTY BITE 59A Irish Town Tel: 200 78220 Fax: 200 74321
Quality Kitchen Ware Gibraltar’s Best Stocked Cook Shop K5
The Takeway with a difference. Homecooking . our speciality . Open Monday
M5 to Saturday
46 Irish Town Tel: 200 75188 Fax: 200 72653
K5
D5 68
J4
M5 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
X7
take-away or reserve a table
Tel: 200 46993 7 days 11am - 3pm, 6pm - late
Queensway Quay (next to Waterfront)
S3 Accountants Durante Carboni Jardim..............X3 ESV Hassan & Co........................ I4 Business/Financial Services AI Couriers..................................K3 Barclays...................................... M4 Jyske Bank.................................. L4 Sovereign Trust...........................N4 ITMS............................................ J9 Business Services Waste Management......................a6 Business Supplies Beacon Press...............................N6 Image Graphics...........................N3 Stitch Design................................P3
X7
Z6
TASTY INDIAN CUISINE
Motoring & Car Sales A. M. Capurro & Sons Ltd ........ N6 Computers & Cableing Image Graphics........................... N3 Newton Systems.........................M5 PC Clinic..................................... U3 Food & Drink Amin’s The Office....................... K5 Bridge Bar . ................................ B5 Buddies Pasta Casa..................... Q4 Cafe Rojo.................................... K5 Café Solo..................................... G3 Casa Pepe.....................................Z6 Get Stuffed.................................. A3 House of Sacarello.......................L5 Just Desserts..................................I4
Lord Nelson................................. H2 The Lounge ..................................Z6 O’Reilly’s Irish Pub......................B5 Picadilly Gardens.......................... b4 Pick-a-Bite.....................................J6 Saccone & Speed...........................J4 Solo Express................................ H4 Star Bar........................................ K5 Verdi Verdi................................... H4 Waterfront.................................... Y7 Jewellery Sales/Repair Jewellery Repairs..........................L4 Matthew’s Jewellery......................I3 Hair & Beauty Salons Claudia’s Clinic............................ K4 Joya’s Gents Hairdressers............ N2
Renaissance Beauty.......................J4 Roots.............................................T4 Leisure Complete Fitness.......................... R3 Dolphin Safari.............................. A3 Ocean Village Gym . ................... C4 Atlantic Suites Gym & Spa...........J9 Legal Services Hassans............................................. Isolas.............................................E4 Medical / Health Bell Pharmacy.............................. N3 Claudia’s Clinic............................ K4 Dr. Crump, Steven, Chiropractor I4 Health Food Store........................ O4
Louis Pharmacy...........................H4 McTimoney chiropractor.............L4 Sport-On - Sports Therapy...........K3 Steiner Chiropractor.....................K7
Fashion House Interiors..............P2 Greenarc..................................... X5 Larbi upholstery......................... R3 Space Interiors.............................I3
Pet Services / Supplies Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic..........H4
Shopping — General Image...........................................E6 Sakata.........................................M4
Property Sales / Estate Agents BFA..............................................G4 Chesterton....................................D5 Savills............................................J5 Solomon Levy . ...........................U3 General Services Balloqui . ..................................... P4 LP Borge......................................X3 Denville Designs.........................M3
Shopping — Fashion/Clothing Marble Arc...................................... Recruitment RecruitGibraltar......................... O6 SRG Europe.................................I3 Transport / Marine Services Gib Cargo................................... B8 Tarik Oil..................................... C8
U4
P2
184 Main Street Tel: 200 72133 open: from 8am (10am on Sun)
J7
g GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
J3
ibraltar the
CRAFT CLASSES - PHONE FOR INFO 69 Governor’s Street. Tel: +350 56750000 email: sueorfila@yahoo.co.uk
69
celebritiy
Stars Hitched in Gibraltar words | Reg Reynolds
He was one of the leading big band leaders of the 20th century, she was best known as Scarlet O’Hara’s little sister and they were the first American celebrities to be married at Gibraltar. Artie Shaw was the rival of Benny Goodman in the Swing era but he hadn’t led an orchestra or played his clarinet for three years when he married the actress Evelyn Keyes at Gibraltar in the autumn of 1957. Keyes described the event as “anti-climactic” because the couple had been living together for sometime beforehand. She did add, however, “...but still what a great place to start the rest of your life, on the Rock of Gibraltar”.
It was the fourth marriage for Keyes and the eighth for Shaw, tying him with Elizabeth Taylor and Mickey Rooney for the second- most married celebrities in Hollywood history. Zsa Zsa Gabor, 96 and currently married to 9th husband Frédéric Prinz von Anhalt is the celeb record holder. Interestingly, Shaw and Rooney, and Keyes and Taylor have connections. Shaw and Rooney were both married to the beautiful
Who Did They Marry? Evelyn Keyes spouses: Artie Shaw (1957 - 1985) John Huston (1946 - 1950) Charles Vidor (1944 - 1945) Barton Leon Bainbridge (1939 - 1940)
70
(divorced) (divorced) (divorced) (his death)
1 child
actress Ava Gardner while Keyes had an affair lived with with flamboyant movie producer Mike Todd (Around the World in 80 Days) who left her to marry Taylor. Soon after the marriage Todd was killed in a plane crash. It was the second airplane tragedy to affect Taylor as her much-loved godfather, Tory MP Victor Cazalet, was killed at Gibraltar in the same crash that claimed the life of Polish president-in-exile Wlaydslaw
Artie Shaw’s Spouses: Evelyn Keyes (1957 - 1985) Doris Dowling (1952 - 1956) Kathleen Winsor (1946 - 1948) Ava Gardner (1945 - 1946) Elizabeth Kern (1942 - 1943) Lana Turner (1940 - 1940) Margaret Allen (1934 - 1937) Jane Cairns (1932 - 1932)
(divorced) (divorced) (divorced) (divorced) (divorced) (divorced) (divorced) (annulled)
1 child
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
celebrity
“
I never left a man again, she said later. I made them leave me
“
”
”
Sikorski. The Shaw-Keyes marriage would last 28 years and would be the longest for both of them. They did live separate lives after 1970 but the 13 years together was still a triumph of sorts and is surprising considering Shaw, for all his talents and good looks, was a very difficult person to be around. Ironically Shaw’s other seven marriages combined add up to 13 years, the second longest being to Doris Dowling (4 years) and the shortest to Lana Turner (6 months). Four of Shaw’s brides were movie stars — Keyes, Dowling, Turner and Gardner while Kathleen Winsor was a famous writer (Forever Amber). Fourth wife Elizabeth Kern was the daughter of composer Jerome Kern. The only ‘civilians’ he married were his first wife Jane Cairns and Margaret Allen. The former, a doctor’s daughter, was only 17 when she eloped with the 22-year-old Shaw. The marriage was never consummated and was annulled at the request of the girls’ parents. ‘Marge’ Allen was a dental nurse. They lived together in Greenwich Village when he was down out but divorced when he became successful, because she didn’t want to be married to someone famous. Evelyn Keyes’ other marriages were also quite short. Her first husband, India-born Englishman Barton Bainbridge, committed suicide with a shotgun after she left him. “I never left a man again,” she said later. “I made them leave me.” Keyes had left her hometown of Port Arthur, Texas to seek fame in Hollywood. She never quite made the “A” grade stardom of Lana Turner or Ava Gardner. Generally she played secondary parts to the likes of Marilyn Monroe (The Seven Year Itch). Her autobiography is titled Scarlet O’Hara’s Younger Sister because she is best remembered for her role as Suellen O’Hara, the younger sister of Vivian Leigh’s Scarlett in Gone with the Wind.
Her second marriage was to the Hungarian director Charles Vidor (Gilda, Love Me or Leave Me, Hans Christian Anderson) but they were divorced after just 14 months. In 1946 Keyes married the eccentric and rebellious actor-director John Huston. This marriage lasted a little more than three years and they adopted a Mexican boy that Huston took a shine to while filming in that country. So why did the Shaw-Keyes marriage last as long as it did? Friends described the couple as having a strong mutual physical attraction and similar personal beliefs. In the end it was Shaw’s perfectionism that drove them apart. He explained that he quit playing the clarinet because he could not have gotten any better, only worse. A lover Joanne Lupton, who moved in with Shaw following his separation from Keyes, explained in the book Three Chords for Beauty’s Sake, The Life of Artie Shaw by Tom Nolan, just how impossible a man he could be. To his credit Lupton said Shaw could be a joy: “The man was so filled with life, he was incredible to be with.” But then she added, “Everything had to be perfect”. “Just to give one example — and everything was like this — he liked a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice in the morning, but it had to be a certain temperature. So what you had to do was put the orange in the refrigerator to get it cool enough, but then you had to remove it a certain time before you actually squeezed it, so the timing had to be exactly right. And if you didn’t do it exactly right, he would get very upset; I mean really upset. It would last for a long time. It could go on for hours.” Lupton also told of how Shaw’s coffee also had to be perfect with the precise amount of artificial sweetener added or he would go
It was a row over a missing button that contributed to the final breakup of Keyes and Shaw
“
The man was so filled with life, he was incredible to be with. But then she added, Everything had to be perfect
“
”
”
“berserk”. It was a row over a missing button that contributed to the final breakup of Keyes and Shaw. The couple were on holiday in Italy and looking for La Scala Opera House when Shaw noticed a button was missing from his sweater. He wanted it fixed immediately. Keyes suggested that he could wait until they were back at the hotel and the valet would “... sew a new button on for you”. Shaw then berated Keyes for not having a ‘button box’ and she replied angrily, “What the hell is a button box?” “It speaks for itself, does it not — and obviously you don’t have one.” “Of course I don’t have one.” “You are my wife and you have failed me.” With that Artie Shaw stormed off and the marriage that began so blissfully on the Rock of Gibraltar collapsed bitterly on the streets of Milan. Despite their many marriages and other problems, both Keyes and Shaw were fortunate to enjoy good health and long lives. Evelyn Louise Keyes was born 20th November, 1916 at Port Arthur Texas and died of Alzheimer’s disease on 4th July, 1908, aged 91 at a care home in Montecito, California. Arthur Jacob Arshawsky, aka Artie Shaw, was born 23rd May 1910 in New York. He died of pneumonia on 30th December, 2004 aged 94 at Thousand Oaks, California. Evelyn Keyes sued Shaw’s estate, claiming that she was entitled to one-half of Shaw’s estate pursuant to a contract to make a will between them. In July 2006, a Ventura, California jury awarded Keyes $1,420,000. n
Adopt Don’t Buy
Give a Dog a Home If you are interested in adopting call the GSPCA on 540 19968 or 540 29927 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
71
The Poppy Appeal The Royal British Legion’s biggest fundraising campaign every year is the Poppy Appeal. The Royal British Legion Gibraltar Branch collects between £5,000 and £9,000 each year. However £2,000 are always kept in Gibraltar to provide support to members of the Armed Forces and their families, especially the widows, here. In addition to 8,000 poppies, made by the disabled soldiers, the Gibraltar Branch will also sell Remembrance wreaths to raise money for the charity. The Gibraltar Magazine spoke to the Chairman of The Royal British Legion Gibraltar Branch, Momy Levy, to find out more about the campaign. Would you say that The Royal British Legion is one of the leading charities in Gibraltar? “All charities with all respect are leading, but The Royal British Legion is the one which collects most. It is the one that tops the bill every year and it is very well accepted by the public.” Are the preparations for the campaign in full speed? “We have already started distributing poppies in different places. Then three days before the Poppy Appeal people come to collect their wreaths to lay them on Remembrance Sunday. Our volunteers will be on the streets of Gibraltar from Monday 4th to Friday 8th of November. On the 8th of November, the day
of the Poppy Appeal, we will have stations at Convent Place, in front of Marks and Spencer, outside Piazza, outside the Post Office, and outside ICC.”
than £9,000. Out of that, 2,000 stays in Gibraltar to help people locally. Two years ago we invited three soldiers in their 20s, who have lost their legs, to Gibraltar. I brought them over with their partners and for one week we gave them a VIP treatment. Although we are small, What kind of help do you provide? “We help financially. If someone can’t pay we have done our share.” their bills we help them out. We also have a welfare officer who can go and help people in Why is it vital, that we all commemorate the hospital. If someone comes here, who need this event? some advice how to do one thing or the other “People gave their lives to defend us, and we help them out as well.” if it weren’t for them, god knows what would happen. We might not be here at all. They How much are you expecting to raise saved the world, Churchill and his men. We with the fundraising campaign and what must not forget that easily. They did their job would the amount do for the Armed and gave their lives. We must not forget this Forces Community? sacrifice they have done, and they are still do“We raise not less than £5,000 and not more ing it today in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Why poppies? World War 1 caused widespread devastation to northern France and Belgium; however, the poppy flowered, bringing colour and hope. More than 40 million Remembrance poppies, 500,000 poppies of other types, 5 million Remembrance petals, 100,000 wreaths and sprays, 750,000 Remembrance Crosses and other Remembrance items are made at the Poppy Factory each year.
72
GIBRALTARMAGAZINE MAGAZINE••NOVEMBER NOVEMBER2013 2013 GIBRALTAR
“For example those soldiers in their 20s that for the dead. It would be a sad day if Rememwe invited two years ago, who have no legs for brance Day wasn’t held, a very sad day.” the rest of their lives, and yet they have the will to carry on. This is the least we can do.” The Remembrance Sunday parade and the services will take place on Sunday, 10th What does the Remembrance Sunday November, at the Cross of Sacrifice or on Line means to you personally? Wall Road at 12 noon. On Monday 11th No“When World War II broke out I was four vember Armistice Day will be commemorated years old. Luckily we were evacuated. The at Parliament House Lobby at 11am with a one majority of people went to London and had a minute silence. rough time, but my family went to Madeira. Anyone wishing to lay a wreath is advised Luckily we never saw a plane go by, but we that wreaths may be collected for £25 from lost a lot of friends and family. Governor House, from Monday 4th “I remember when I went to boarding November to Wednesday 6th November school in 1950, the lady who used to serve my inclusive from 10am to midday. n breakfast, she still had her number from the concentration camp on her hand. She said, I want people to see it, not to say the Holocaust never happened. That number meant a lot. Those people should be in a madhouse not a On the eleventh hour of the Head of State. Although time marches on we eleventh day of the eleventh must forgive but never forget. It is a big tragedy month in 1918, the First World and we must never forget. Life is priceless, good health in one’s life has no price, other War ended. Civilians wanted things you can buy.” to remember the people who had given their lives for peace Who, besides the general public, will be and freedom. An American invited to attend the Ceremony? War Secretary, Moina Michael, “The Chief Minister, the Governor and the inspired by John McCrae’s Mayor goes, the Commander of British Forces, poem, “In Flanders’ Fields”, the Jewish community, the Hindu community, began selling poppies to friends the Muslims, the Freemasons, every organisato raise money for the extion in Gibraltar lays a wreath. Everybody Service community. And so the wants to lay a wreath to show their respect tradition began.
History
Little Princess Trust:
Rani’s hair raising funds “My name is Rani Menghnani Rodriguez. I will be donating my hair to the Little Princess Trust, a UK registered charity, which provides real hair wigs free of charge to children losing their hair due to cancer treatment. I have always been precious about my long hair and can only imagine how devastating it would be for a little girl to lose hers and not play dress up like all other girls, amongst the daily stresses of her illness. Some boys and girls can cope quite well with their hair loss, but for others this can be upsetting. This is why I have chosen to donate my hair towards a wig. I need to donate a minimum of
7 inches (16cm). A wig costs approximately £350 to make and my goal is to reach at least £1,050.00 — providing funds for three wigs and hopefully putting a smile on three kids’ faces. I will have my haircut on 6th December 2013 at Roots Gibraltar and hope you can join me in fund-raising for this lovely cause. Any amount, big or small, can make all the difference.” http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Rani
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
73
past
revisited
Gibraltar in World Travellers’ Books words | Reg Reynolds
John L. Stoddard was the Alan Whicker of his time. Both men travelled the world and reported their experiences to wide audiences but whereas Whicker benefited from television and modern camera equipment to spread the word Stoddard had to rely on his oratory, and standard photography. overlong as illustrated by this passage written about his first sighting of the Rock: “It was at five o’clock in the morning, at the end of a transatlantic voyage, that I first saw Gibraltar. Called by the steward half an hour before, I hastened to the steamer’s deck, to find the ocean covered with a tantalizing fog, beneath which only the edge of the Spanish coast was visible. But soon, as if by a magician’s spell, the soft gray curtain, which surrounded us, rose gradually from the rim of the horizon, and a bright spot of gold upon the Mediterranean’s eastern verge foretold the coming of the god of day. The effect that followed will never be forgotten by those who witnessed it; for as if that first sign of the approaching luminary were a pre-concerted signal, the sombre drapery of clouds, which had till then enveloped the stupendous rock, was slowly rolled up like a scroll, revealing first the feet and left flank, then the side and shoulder, and finally the majestic head of a couchant monster, three miles long and 1,400 feet in height, turned by a fiat of the gods to stone. Whether its form resembles most
Whicker, who passed away on 13th July this year aged 91, had a career as broadcaster and journalist that lasted nearly 60 years. His popular show Whicker’s World was aired by the BBC for more than 30 years. Stoddard lived to be 81 and his career also spanned more than half a century but one thing Stoddard did that Whicker didn’t do, was to write a book about Gibraltar. Stoddard was born in Brookline, Massachusetts on 24th April, 1870. He graduated from Williams College and studied theology at Yale before setting out on his world travels in 1874. For the next 20 years Stoddard roamed the world returning to America every so often to give lectures about the places he had visited. He later used the notes and photographs from the lectures to publish books covering a wide variety of subjects from art and architecture, to archaeology and natural history. He explored countries such as Japan, China, France, Spain and Egypt to name just a few. The title John L. Stoddard’s Lectures consisted of 10 volumes and Volume Two is a 336-page book on Canada, Malta and Gibraltar (published 1902). There are more than 400 photographs and illustrations in the book, including 30 of Gibraltar and environs. Stoddard’s writing could be flowery and
74
“
The sombre drapery of clouds, which had till then enveloped the stupendous rock, was slowly rolled up like a scroll, revealing first the feet and left flank, then the side and shoulder, and finally the majestic head of a couchant monster
a lion or a sphinx, it is, at all events sublime”. And then this about the town itself: “The town presents a curious medley of Great Britain and the Orient. Over the doors of shops and on the corners of the streets are English names, and one hears everywhere the English tongue. Vehicles turn to the left, in meeting, as in England; and scores of British soldiers dressed in khaki, stroll about the streets or march with swinging step from point to point. But the small shops, low doors, and walls of brightly coloured stucco, together with a large proportion of African, East Indian and Moorish traders, as well as the presence of the patient donkey — all give to this peculiar corner of the world an unmistakable flavour of the east.” Stoddard opens the book with an extensive dose of history and he makes a thorough investigation of every part of Gibraltar, but the best of the book are the photographs with descriptions such as: The Neutral Ground, The Lion’s Face, The Line Wall of Division, Soldiers of the King, Europa Point, Fruit Vendors in Gibraltar, Inside the Spanish Lines, Fortifications Along the Shore, The Old Moorish Castle and Gibraltar’s Principal Street. Through inheritance and the popularity of his lectures and books, Stoddard amassed a fortune and later in life he used this to support his adopted home of Merano, South Tyrol, northern Italy. He contributed to the building of a secondary school and to a home for homeless youth, which is now a rehabilitation centre. Stoddard died on 5th June, 1931. n
”
picture of Main Street from the book “Gibraltar - John L. Stoddard’s Lectures”
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
puzzle page
SUDOKU Just for fun!
by Alan Gravett 1
2
3
4
6
5
7
8 9 10 11
12 13
15
16
14
17 18
19
20
21 22 23 24
Jotting Pad
Send completed crossword to: The Clipper, Irish Town, Gibraltar.
FIRST PRIZE: Lunch for 2 at The Clipper
One entry per person. Closing date: 16th November 2013 Last month’s winner: Kay Eggleton Cannon Lane LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS: Across: France, Asthma, Masseur, Rapid, Lemur, Tonsure, Strong Point, Rubicon, Turin, Taste, Sceptre, Chores, Florin. Down: Female, Assam, Cheerio, Siren, Hepburn, Audrey, Protagonist, Tabasco, Oatmeal, Critic, Intern, Crest, Rotor.
76
Across 1 Doomed; condemned to misery – (poetic spelling) (7) 8 A 2-handled jar for liquids, typically Greek or Roman (7) 9 Stupid (7) 10 Member of a reserve army; breed of dog (7) 11 Search thoroughly or clean thoroughly (5) 13 Jewellery worn below the chin (9) 15 Goat — sign of the 6) (9) 18 Type of lizard (5) 21 Unable to make progress; impeded (7) 22 Free time; time away from work (7) 23 Beneficiary under a will (7) 24 Saint who is celebrated on 26 December (7) Down 1 Ram – sign of the 6) (5) 2 A boy (or small beer!) in Spanish (5) 3 If you travel you need these to get home (6,7) 4 Device to trick opponent (6) 5 Imitation champagne (9,4) 6 The horoscope, collectively (6) 7 Bull — sign of 6) (6) 12 Spanish 5) (4) 14 Boy’s name — Scandinavian spelling (4) 15 Repair shoes; old-style paving stone (6) 16 A constellation of the Great Bear (6) 17 Lots and lots (6) 19 Mash; thoroughly beat (5) 20 Common name for a cinema (5)
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Newton Creative Awards The Music Category of the Newton Creative Awards is closing on 15th November. All you need to enter the competition is an original piece of music composed by yourself on a computer. Under 13: No longer than 3 minutes. Sampled music must not exceed 50% of the final composition. Maximum of 1 rhythmic loop and 1 melodic loop. Under 17: No longer than 4 minutes. Sampled music not to exceed 10% of the final composition. 17 and over: No longer than 5 minutes. Sampled music must not exceed 10%% of the final composition Application form and more information on the website: newton.gi/nca
Comedy Rocks! World-class comedy is hitting the Rock this November for the first Gibraltar Comedy Festival. Comedy Rocks brings together three acts from the UK over two nights at the John Mackintosh Hall Theatre, with performances starting at 8pm on 8th and 9th November. Frisky & Mannish take to the stage on Friday 8th November. The duo has previously been described as “comedy gold”, offering pure exhilarating brilliance from start to finish. Also appearing on Friday is the truly innovative act, Abandoman, with their unparalleled freestyle talent and razor-sharp wit. Abandoman features again on Saturday 9th November, with more of their killer punch lines and note-perfect improvisation. Also on Saturday’s bill is Ian D Montfort, a spookily skilful, wonderfully observed and hysterically
funny character wh0o was a monster hit at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe. One venue – two nights – three acts; Comedy Rocks promises a barrel load of laughs. Tickets at £18 are on sale at comedyrocks.gi, the John Mackintosh Hall Box Office, and at Valmar Pharmacy in Main Street. Comedy Rocks is produced by Gibraltar Entertainment Network and supported by the Ministry of Culture, GBC, the Gibunco Group, Gib Oil, Gibtelecom, Sapphire Networks and Lewis Stagnetto. n
St Bernard’s Catholic Social Club held a reception last month to wish farewell to Governor of Gibraltar, Vice Admiral Sir Adrian Johns and his wife Lady Suzie Johns. Sir Adrian has been Governor since 2009. Lieutenant General Sir James Dutton arrives in December to take over the post.
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
77
Time Travel with the Trovadores words | Richard Cartwright
These days it’s not unusual to read about pop and rock groups, acoustic singer songwriters, jazz ensembles, choirs and other genre contributing to the local music scene, in our entertainment magazines. The timbre of the exceptionally melodic songs of the Latin American variety however, is long gone. That sound, performed by `Los Trovadores’ or the `Troubadours,’ did in fact resonate once again just a handful of years ago during a short period of performances 50 years after their formation, at religious celebrations, whilst helping to raise funds for worthy causes, at senior citizens’ institutions and markedly for a re-recording of their most famous song and original Gibraltar anthem, La Plegaria a la Virgen de Europa dedicated to Our Lady
78
of Europe. Indeed Los Trovadores were a local Latin American combo of acoustic guitars and impeccable three part harmonies not unlike that of their mentors, world famous Los Panchos, Los Paraguayos and Los Indios — groups that are still around today in some configuration or other, promoting those tuneful melodies... “Our own group was already up and running when I returned from teacher training in the mid ’50s,”
lead singer Octavio Victory recalls, “They were Elio Cruz, Frank Costa and Luis Diaz and I was asked to join. Sometime later, Isaac Wahnon replaced playwright Elio Cruz who left for the UK. Other musicians joined us at different times but we decided to add a double bass to enhance our sound as we planned to make a record. Later, that bass player Louis Bruzon, remained with us for a time.” During the ’50s and ’60s this type of music was very popular everywhere, not least on the Rock and here another group, Los Romanceros, were also much admired but to my mind, weren’t as popular as Los Trovadores. Well, they were our rivals but I always thought we had better guitar players and a very hard working singer/guitarist in the group — Luis Diaz who would not give up until everything sounded just right during rehearsals with the right chords and everything else. Harmonies had to be perfectly in tune. We’d rehearse three times a week between eight and midnight!” Octavio remembers, in those days like today, you were asked to perform at many charitable events and Gibraltar being a small territory you felt compelled to perform. “That’s true but we did get paid at many other venues we played at, not much, but we did receive payment. We did the Services’ messes, the Calpe Institute and the clubs around in those days like the Panama night club, the Barnacle, La Venta, El Sombrero, The Caleta Palace, The Rock, where we were resident a couple of times a week, the Copacabana in Main Street (believe it or not) and top clubs on the coast then like, the Jacaranda club in Marbella and El Manana in Torremolinos. We did the radio stations in the area and other venues also and we even earned enough to buy a couple of new guitars!” While not a single songwriter amongst them, Luis Diaz and Elio Cruz in the early days surprisingly managed to come up with, what has become that classic Gibraltar anthem La Plegaria... which was later added to the repertoire of another similar group, Los Peninsulares, who appeared on the scene much later; it became a standard for them to play at functions and was always the last song to be performed at GBC Open Days for many years. Los Trovadores’ popularity was such they were even invited to perform at the Queen’s Cinema where the American vocal group The Platters were headlining! “And we also performed for Los Panchos in their dressing room who were appearing at the Theatre Royal. In fact we performed at many variety shows there...” Yes, and I’m told the most expensive tickets were sold at four shillings, which is about 20p today! The group also recorded a programme for the BBC World Service and had record releases on the Parlophone and Melodisc labels. But as happens with so many outfits the time comes when you think about the next step. Octavio recollects, “I felt we should try our chances in the UK but others in the group weren’t too keen on the idea. It was crunch time. We had a Gibraltarian in the UK, Pepe Brew, who had contacts there and was willing to help us out and be our manager but we didn’t agree to make the move.” After a performing lull however, the acoustic ensemble of romantic songs returned to the
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
music stage in 1966 to perform at a Gibraltar Song Festival held at The Naval Trust Cinema (Regal House now) and said their goodbyes during that year at the 1966 Miss Gibraltar Show held in the courtyard at Wellington Front next to where the GBC TV studios (now Martial Arts Centre) were then situated. At some stage during the ’60s Octavio left for a teaching job in Columbia and later went to another school in the UK but eventually came back to the Rock. In the meantime some of the other members had joined other musicians, ‘turned electric’ and entered the more profitable dance band fraternity that was very much in vogue during those years which meant Los Trovadores, as an active unit, were no more... Nonetheless history shows the ‘boys’ got together again in the mid noughties on a few occasions to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Los Trovadores taking root! Now, a couple of The Trovadores the original members are in their 80s so I feel together again they’ve finally called it a day; Los Trovadores are now resigned to Gibraltar’s musical history archives. boleros or ballads and our harmonies went My English teacher at the Dockyard and down so well. It was soft, melodic, romantic Technical School, Octavio Victory confirms and pleasant to the ear and there’s not much his life on stage with his fellow troubadours was a fulfilling and very happy one even when close friends, as he recalls, jokingly removed the ‘beads’ from his percussion instrument, the maracas, because they claimed they were out of tune..! “Oh yes it was a laugh at my expense when I went to shake them and there was nothing there and was told why they’d been removed!” Melody in much of today’s music is not a necessary ingredient it seems and Octavio feels there is none at all. “That is why our
Los Trovadores’ popularity was such they were even invited to perform at the Queen’s Cinema where the American vocal group The Platters were headlining
file
of that around today...” I guess it’s a case of today’s music reflecting the times in which we live Octavio! So here’s a plea to local musicians on behalf of lovers of Latin American music... no doubt it’s downloadable to listen to and imitate, so the search is on for three acoustic guitar players with sweet, harmonious voices... Any takers for a Los Trovadores tribute group out there? n Last month the Mayor of Gibraltar, Tony Lima presented Elio Cruz, 82, with the Mayor’s Gold award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Gibraltar’s musical life. He was an original member of the group ‘ Los Trovadores’ and wrote the lyrics to the song ‘ La Virgencita de Europa’.
A Night of Jazz & Brazilian music 13th November from 8pm The Convent Ballroom
The Gibraltar Philharmonic Society continues its season with exciting music from New York City and welcomes to the Rock for the very first time jazz and Brazilian trio Libertrio. Juliet Kurtzman (violin) and Santi Debriano (double bass) has proven to be one of the most versatile and creative musicians to emerge from the New York jazz scene and their pianist Helio Alves, a native of Sao Paulo, Brazil, combines the rhythmic complexity of modern Brazilian music with the edgy energy of contemporary jazz. For Gibraltar audience the trio has made a special programme that includes music by Astor Piazzola, Jacob Bandolim, Mauricio Einhorn, Morgan Lewis , Tom Jobim and others. “We are very happy being able to invite these
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
musicians to Gibraltar all the way from the United States. Libertrio is something new and fresh for the Society and definitely is a must see event in the autumn cultural calendar,” commented a Society’s spokesperson.
Silver Shop at 222 Main Street or directly from the Society by telephone on + 350 200 72134. A limited number of tickets at £10 are made available to senior citizens and students via the John Macintosh Hall at 308 Main Street.
Tickets priced at £20 available from Sacarello’s coffee shop – restaurant in Irish Town and The
For further information Tel: 200 72134 or visit www.philharmonic.gi
79
photo
call
Happy Days! Congratulations! Recently married on the Rock of Gibraltar — Lewis Sebastian Stagnetto and Melanie Soiza at the Caleta Hotel, Catalan Bay.
photo courtesy: Ulookfierce.com (Stephen Perera)
W
to
Many Happy Returns Chris Mills celebrated his 40th birthday last month with a party at the Lounge Gastro Bar, Queensway Quay. Pictured here with fiancé Michelle Stafford who owns the Lounge with sister Sonia.
Tropic4Cancer Transatlantic Solo There’s no denying that, thanks to its strategic geography, Gibraltar is treated to an array of interesting nautical passers-by from megayacht moguls to arctic explorers. Latest guest, Richard Mayon-White, left Marina Bay at the end of October on a rather unusual solo transatlantic crossing. 46-year-old Richard unfurled the sails on Haskapa, a 6.5 metre mini transatlantic class yacht, and embarking on his ocean crossing with a difference. He’ll navigate through the Strait, sail south to follow the western coastline of Morocco and the Sahara, and then meet the Tropic of Cancer at 23 degrees north. This famous line of latitude will then dictate his course for 4,000 miles, before reaching Fort Lauderdale around a month later. Richard explains, “This is a challenge for charity, Tropic4Cancer, and challenges by definition are not supposed to be easy. By adding the self-imposed requirement
80
of sailing only at 23 degrees north, I have removed the opportunity to navigate around adverse weather conditions. Likewise I’ll be unable to switch course to benefit from changes in wind direction and strength.” Richard chose Gibraltar’s Marina Bay as a starting point as it makes sense logistically, not least because Haskapa could be delivered by lorry from Poole. Tropic4Cancer aims to raise £40,000 to be split equally between two great causes — Sobell House Hospice in Oxford (www.sobellhospicecharity.org.uk) and Sail 4 Cancer (www.sail4cancer.org). Fundraising has already achieved more than a third of Richard’s target. Richard’s mother spent her last few weeks in the care of Sobell House, passing away exactly two years ago in October 2011. n To offer your support to Richard visit www.tropic4cancer.com and for donations www.sail4cancer.org/Tropic4Cancer.
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
T
Now Open Our new Lounge Gastro Bar On Queensway Quay. Serving a wide range of high quality beers, wines and bar food. We are now serving food every day. Why not join us for Sunday Lunch this weekend?
Celebrate Christmas in style this year. Whether you are planning the Christmas Lunch for your office or a festive get together with friends, we have the ideal venue & menu for your function...
Christmas Canapé Menu £9.95 Per Person Choose Any Six Options
Christmas Lunch Menu £29.95 Per Person • Bubbly Served on Arrival Starters: Veloute of Parsnip and Chestnut Soup, Croutons, Freshly Baked Bread Pressing of Ham Hock, Cumberland Chutney Purée, Salad of Celery, Cucumber and Walnut Treacle Cured Salmon, Lime and Vodka Mascarpone, Grapefruit, Rocket Coulis Goats Cheese Tartlet, Tomato and Basil, Almond, Balsamic
Smoked Salmon and Prawn Maris Rose
Mains:
Mini Caesar
Traditional Roast Turkey, With All The Trimmings
Ploughman’s on a Stick
Ballontine of Chicken, Parma Ham and Mushroom, Parsnip Puree, Sage Jus
Shots of Festive Soup Calamari Rings
Pan Roast Salmon Fillet, Crushed Baby Potatoes, Asparagus, Prawn and Cockle Champagne Cream
Goats Cheese and Tomato Tartlet
Bouche with Roasted Sweet Potato, Pine Nut and Courgette, Tomato Reduction
Beer Battered Catch of The Day, Tartare Pil Pil Prawn
Desserts:
Tempura Prawn
Chefs Christmas Pudding, Navy Rum Custard, Boozy Flambé Fruit
Marinated Meat Kebabs Chicken Liver Parfait En Croute ‘Tiny English Classics’ (If Chosen Only Choose Two Others)
Christmas Hot Buffet Menu
Techniques in Chocolate and Coffee Raspberry and Strawberry Meringue, Tarragon Yoghurt Selection of Choice Cheeses, Biscuits and Chutney
Christmas Cold Buffet and Finger Food Menu
£14.95 Per Person • Bubbly Served on Arrival
£14.95 Per Person • Bubbly Served on Arrival
Choose Three of The Main Course Options
Choose Five of The Main Course Options
Shepherd’s Pie • Thai Green Chicken Curry
Smoked Salmon and Prawn Maris Rose
Chilli Con Carne • Fish Pie
Sliced Meat Platters • Ploughman’s Selection
Slow Braised Beef Casserole, Home Made Dumplings
Home Made Quiche • Chef Sausage Rolls
Cassoulet of Pork, Mushrooms and Mixed Beans
Beer Battered Catch of The Day, Tartare
Vegetable and Sweet Chilli Stir Fry
Pil Pil Prawns • Meat Kebabs
Lasagne of Tomato and Aubergine , Goats Cheese Gratin
Meat Balls with Provencal Sauce
Choose Three Sides Selection of Rice • Hand Cut Chips Potato Salad • Coleslaw Waldolf Salad • Tomato and Balsamic Garlic Baguettes • Buttered Seasonal Vegetables
Selection of Stone Baked Pizza Choose Four Finger Foods Smoked Salmon and Prawn Maris Rose • Hand Cut Chips Potato Salad • Coleslaw • Waldorf Salad Tomato and Balsamic • Garlic Baguettes
The Lounge Gastro Bar • Queensway Quay • Call +350 20061118
S TELL Uyou always
? do item fridge what e in your : hav email ltar.gi ra ib g ag@ gibm
Felicity Lambie Retired Sound Effects Artist Chocolate! I keep the fridge stocked with Chunky Kit Kats, because my husband enjoys one with a cup of builder’s tea in the afternoon. I also keep a bar of Cadbury’s Fruit and Nut for me, which I eat occasionally because it’s lovely and I enjoy it. If I can’t get fruit and Nut, a Daim Bar is a very close second choice.
What item do you always have in your fridge? compiled by Pennie Gwilt
Our fridges may be crammed full of items which eventually get thrown away, if recent reports by Tesco in the UK are to be believed, but what is your must have item in your fridge? What foodstuff do you feel bereft without? Pennie Gwilt headed out onto the streets to find out. Christian Martinez Proprietor JJ Hire I always make sure I have milk for my three year old daughter, who has a drink last thing at night to help her sleep well.
Nieves Diaz Sales Assistant, Jewellery Shop Fresh Pineapple, it’s so sweet to taste and easily available all through the seasons.
82
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Mark Williams Duty Manager at Waterfront Garlic is my must have item because I always use it in stir fries which I cook a lot.
Douglas Borg Retired Manager of Pisa Shoes
Steven Marin Director, MRW Couriers
There is always bacon and sausages in our fridge because our four grandchildren just love that sort of food and are always hungry.
There is always chilled wine in the fridge. I drink it to help me relax, and I have loads of visitors to my house who always help me drink it!
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
83
photo
call
Gibraltar Day in London 2013
84
photos | Mike Brufal
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
photo call
The highlight of the events surrounding the annual Gibraltar Day in London in October, was the Chief Minister’s Reception held in the grandeur of the Guildhall, London, a spectacular building constructed in the 15th Century. Amongst the many distinguished faces who attended the reception at Guildhall were friends of Gibraltar, several Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Members of the House of Lords and Commons, Sheriffs of the City of London, the Mayor of Gibraltar and past, present and future Governors of Gibraltar. The Chief Minister was accompanied to London by several other Gibraltar Government ministers, including Finance Minister Albert Isola, Education and Justice Minister Gilbert Licudi and Neil Costa, the Minister for Tourism, Public Transport, Commercial Affairs and the Port, who participated in several scheduled events including a Maritime and Tourism breakfast where Minister Costa met with leading UK figures in both sectors.
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
85
Scottish writer, radio and television presenter Hardeep Singh Kohli was in Gibraltar at the end of October to present a Spice Workshop with Madhur Jaffrey at the first Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival. Hardeep, who reached the final of the first series of BBC One’s Celebrity MasterChef, took time to give The Gibraltar Magazine two quick and easy Scottish recipes. 86
Cock-a-Leekie Soup This is a hearty traditional Scottish soup which can be turned into a main course if served with roast chicken. Ingredients 6 leeks 4tbs olive oil 6 peppercorns 2 bay leaves 500-750ml chicken stock salt Chopped prunes Flat leaf parsley Hardeep Singh Kohli was in Gibraltar in October.
Method Take six leeks and chop on the bias (at an angle) using as much of the green as you can as that has a wonderful flavour. Divide equally into three bowls. In a heavy soup pan, put 4 tablespoons of olive oil (use extra virgin if you have more money than sense), half a dozen peppercorns and two bay leaves. Fry for a minute or two then add one bowl
of leeks with a good pinch of salt to extract all the leeky flavour and cook for 10 - 15 minutes. While this is happening put the second bowl of leeks, with a good bang of rock salt, into a preheated oven (160°C) and roast. Allow them to cook down — you are not looking colour but just to begin the disintegration process. Put 500-750ml of chicken stock — the best you can get hold of (you can use vegetable stock if you are vegetarian) — in a pan and bring to the boil. Reduce to a simmer and add the remaining leeks and cook for 5 minutes. Take the leeks from the oven and add, along with the other leeks. Sprinkle with chopped prunes and flat leaf parsley to serve. Serve with roast chicken to make a main course. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Fig Cranachan This is a delicious variation of the great traditional Scottish dessert of cranachan, which more usually includes raspberries and heather honey. Ingredients 350g demerara sugar 350g oatmeal fresh figs honey chopped pistachios 350ml double cream Method Take equal amounts of fine oatmeal and demerara sugar (350g of each) and place in a hot frying pan. Don’t fiddle with it, allow the mix to caramelise — you are aiming for a consistency like granola with some nice bitter carbony flavour. In the meantime cut the figs in quarters (not right through) and squeeze to open them out like
tulips. Drizzle with honey and scatter with chopped pistachios, and place on a baking tray in a preheated oven (200°C) for 15 - 20 minutes. You are not looking to cook them just to start the process. Once the oats are caramelised put the pan to one side to cool. Whip up 350 ml of double or whipping cream until it forms soft peaks. Once the oats have cooled down break them down into big pieces, then gently fold into the double cream. Place the figs in a layer at the bottom of a glass bowl then gently spoon the oats and cream mixture over the top. n
Contemporary Mediterranean Dining
Grand Casemates Square Tel: 200 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
44449 for reservations 87
appetite
e to wher drink eat & the on k Roc
Café Solo Modern Italian eatery set in lively Casemates square. Everything from chicory and crispy pancetta salad with walnuts, pears and blue cheese dressing, or king prawn, mozzarella and mango salad to pastas(eg: linguine with serrano ham, king prawns and rocket; smoked salmon and crayfish ravioli with saffron and spinach cream) to salads (eg: Vesuvio spicy beef, cherry tomatoes, roasted peppers and red onions; and Romana
Cafe Rojo
restaurants
Sleek modern comfort in this relaxing little restaurant. Brunch (10am12pm) includes ciabatta, granary, foccacia sandwiches with fillings such as pear and blue cheese, smoked bacon and brie, cheese and honey roast ham, delicious desserts. Lunch 12-3pm, dinner 7-10pm; dishes such as Marinated Tuna Steak & Sesame Crust; Roasted Lamb Shoulder; pastas or risottos such as Roast Pumpkin, Mushroom, & Spinach Curry, Langoustine, Lime & Coconut; Pear, Walnut & Blue Cheese; and Creamy Mixed Seafood; and salads such as Warm Goats’ Cheese, Fresh Spinach & Chargrilled Aubergine; and Roast Duck, Chorizo & Pancetta Salad. Open: 10am. Closed Sundays and Saturday lunchtime.
Nunos Italian
Nunos Italian Restaurant, overlooking the Mediterranean, is popular with hotel guests, tourists and local residents. This 2 rosette rated, AA restaurant is renowned for its eclectic interior, intimate atmosphere and fine cuisine. Savour a wide selection of freshly prepared Italian delicacies, including bread, pasta, meat and fish, followed by delicious desserts. In the summer months, the hotel offers alfresco dining for private parties in the Garden Grill. Sitting nestled in the colonial garden you can enjoy a mouth-watering menu of charcoal-grilled meats and freshly prepared salads in candlelit surroundings. Open: Mon-Sun 1-3pm lunch, 7–11pm dinner
Cafe Rojo 54 Irish Town. Tel: 200 51738
Nunos Italian Restaurant and Terrace Caleta Hotel, Catalan Bay Tel: 200 76501 Email: reservations@caletahotel.gi
Casa Pepe
The Waterfront
A delightful terrace, bar, restaurant on the prestigious Queensway Quay Marina. Wonderful location for business meetings, weddings, anniversaries and other special occasions. Specialising in fresh fish caught locally with daily specials including seabass, dorada, sole, and bream, plus a very comprehensive a la carte menu. Also available are tapas and raciones (double size tapas) to share (or not!) prior to a main course. Mixed paellas also available, as well as fish cooked in rock salt, whole suckling pig and baby lamb to order. Open: Tues-Sat lunch & evening, Sunday lunch only, closed Mondays.
Right on the quayside at Queensway Quay Marina, this restaurant offers everything from coffee through to 3-course meals with champagne! A bar snack menu is available all day from 10.15am; the a la carte menu from midday to 10.30pm, featuring daily specials. The barbecue grill from 7pm offers sumptuous steaks aged in-house, and fab fish including dorada and sea bass. A delicious array of desserts/ice creams. Extensive terraces provide ideal location for summer dining and drinks with stunning sunsets. Caters for large parties - weddings, holy communions, birthdays etc. Est. over 16 years. Open: 7 days a week 9am-late
Casa Pepe, 18 Queensway Quay Marina, Tel/Fax: 200 46967 Email: casa.pepe@gmail.com. Visit: www.gibtour.com/casapepe.
The Waterfront Queensway Quay Marina. Tel: 200 45666 Visit: www.gibwaterfront.com
88
chorizo, black pudding, egg and pancetta) and pizzas (eg: Quatto Stagioni topped with mozza rella, ham, chicken, pepperoni and mushroom) and specialities such as salmon fishcakes, beef medallions and duck. Daily specials on blackboard. No smoking. Café Solo Grand Casemates Square. Tel: 200 44449
Solo Bar & Grill
Solo Bar and Grill is a stylish and modern eatery — perfect for business functions or lunches — and part of the popular Cafe Solo stable. Serving everything from Goats’ Cheese Salad, Mediterranean Pâté and Cajun Langoustines to Beer Battered John Dory, or Harissa Chicken, and Chargrilled Sirloin Steak. This is a delightful venue in Europort with a cosy mezzanine level and terrace seating. Well worth a visit, or two! Available for private functions and corporate events — call 200 62828 to book your function or event. Open: 12-8pm. Solo Bar & Grill Eurotowers Tel: 200 62828
Get Listed! Do you own a restaurant, café, or bar in Gibraltar? Get your business listed here
CALL 200 77748 for details GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Do you own a restaurant, café, or bar in Gibraltar? Get your business listed here
CALL 200 77748 for details Amin’s Office Sit down, informal and friendly bar with informal eating. Amin is well known in Gibraltar for his Moroccan, Spanish and international cuisine. Open early for breakfast at 7am right through the day. Try the Moroccan soups, couscous, lamb tagines and kebabs. Terrace, just off Main Street (turn left at Trafalgar Pharmacy coming from Casemates). Open: 7am to midnight. Amin's The Office 30 Parliament Lane. Tel: 200 40932
Buddies Pasta Casa Italian specials in pleasant ambience. Large selection of starters from garlic bread to calamari. Main courses include spinach caneloni, spaghetti alla carbonara, fusilli al salmone, and peppered steak to name a few. Tasty desserts and variety of wines. Outside seating too. Open: Monday - Thursday 11am - 5pm, Friday 11am-3pm and 7pm-11pm, Sat 11am-4.30pm Buddies Pasta Casa 15 Cannon Lane. Tel: 200 40627
Get Stuffed Very popular takeaway, sandwich bar and hot food. Serving all fresh and homemade sandwiches, salads, soups, pasta, pies, cup cakes, plus hot/cold drinks and smoothies and a different special every day. Outside catering for corporate parties. Open: 8am - 4pm Mon-Fri, 8am-3pm Sat. Get Stuffed Marina Bay. Tel: 200 42006
Just Desserts
food & drink
directory Mumbai Curry House Indian cuisine, eat-in/take-away, from snacks (samosas, bhajias, pakoras) to lamb, chicken and fish dishes such as korma, tikka masala, do piaz a . Large vegetarian selection. Halal food. Outside catering for parties/meetings. Sunday Mumbai favourites such as Dosa & Choley Bhature. Open: 7 days a week 11am - 3pm, 6pm -late. Mumbai Curry House Unit 1.0.02 Ground Floor, Block 1 Eurotowers Tel: 200 73711 Home delivery: 200 50022/33
Oasis Eatery
Located in Governor’s Parade, just across from the Elliot Hotel, and offers hot/ c old drinks plus a delicious homemade selection of baked items such as cakes and quiches, also sandwiches and wraps, bagels and cupcakes. Vegan/vegetarian items. Oasis is on Facebook and Twitter and you can pre-order online which is handy for a quick lunch. Special orders taken for a range of bakery goods. Fully licensed for beers and wine. Terrace seating. Open: 8am to 3pm
Oasis Eatery Govenor’s Parade Tel: 200 65544 www.oasiseatery.com
Pick a Bite Morning coffee and daily lunch specials, one of largest selections of traditional home made food, to eat in or takeaway. All the old favourites — spinach pie, croquettes, quiche, spanish omelette, shepherd’s pie and more. Delicious sandwiches, baguettes, ciabatta melts and wraps, with a variety of fillings. Salads, snacks and soups. Cakes and muffins for those with a sweet tooth. Friendly, cheerful and very reasonal prices. Terrace seating. Open: Monday to Friday 8am - 3pm. Pick A Bite 10 Chatham Counterguard Tel: 200 64211
Picadilly Gardens
e to wher drink eat & the on k Roc
Sacarello Coffee Co Converted coffee warehouse, great coffee, homemade cakes/ afternoon tea, plus menu and excellent salad bar with quiche selection, specials of the day and dishes such as lasagne, steak and mushroom Guinness pie, hot chicken salad, toasties, club sandwich and baked potatoes. Art exhibitions. Available for parties and functions in the evenings. Open: 9am-7.30pm Mon-Fri. 9am-3pm Sat Sacarello Coffee Co. 57 Irish Town. Tel: 200 70625
Raj’s Curry House Raj’s tasty Indian cuisine is now available to eat in or take away, from his new fully refurbished premises in Queensway Quay next to the Waterfront. Serving authentic dishes such as Creamy Butter Chicken, Bhuna King Prawn or Chana Masala, and so much more. There is something available to suit all tastes. Pop in or telephone for food orders or table reservations. Open: food served 7 days 11am- 3pm, 6pm-late Raj’s Curry House Queensway Quay. Tel: 200 46993
Solo Express Located next to Pizza Hut in Casemates and in Eurotowers, serves a variety of salads/baguettes (white, brown, ciabatta) filled with a deli selection such as roast chicken; smoked salmon & mascapone; ham, cheese and coleslaw; or humous, avocado & roast red pepper. Salads fresh and tasty (Greek, Waldorf, cous cous, tuna pasta etc), great value. Jackets, quiches, coffee plus cakes (flapjacks, muffins) available all day. Eat-in area. Soups in winter. Solo Express Grnd Flr, ICC, Casemates & Eurotowers
The Tasty Bite
B r i g h t a n d a i r y, recently redecorated cafe on the first floor of the ICC. All homemade food including daily specials, vegetarian options, desserts and small cakes. Eat in or takeaway. Try their daily roast with everything on, or their all-day breakfast. Pensioner’s lunch - 2 course meal for £5.25. Friendly, cheerful and fully licensed. Open: from 7.30am Monday to Friday
Relaxed bar restaurant located near to the Queen’s Hotel and Cable car, it has a cosy garden terrace, which is great for drinks, tapas and food al fresco. English breakfast, tapas, hamburgers, fresh fish, paella by pre-order, prawns, squid, clams and a variety of meat dishes. Eat in or takeaway. Open: 6:30am till late.
Tasty Bite has one of the biggest take-away menus around with home cooked meats, filled baguettes, burgers, chicken and everything else you can think of! Try the quiches, tortillas and jackets spuds with all kinds of fillings. This little place gets busy with those popping out from the offices for lunch so get there early. Open: Monday - Saturday.
Just Desserts 1st Floor ICC. Tel: 200 48014
Piccadilly Gardens Rosia Road, Tel: 20075758
The Tasty Bite 59a Irish Town. Tel: 200 78220 Fax: 200 74321
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
informal food
Get Listed!
89
food & drink informal food
directory Verdi Verdi All day coffee plus all homemade and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, fresh baked bread and desserts. A selection of bagels (try the smoked salmon and cream cheese) and baguettes to eat in or take away. Try the light homemade pizzas, or the falafels and humous. Daily special soups are fabulous and filling. Ask for Idan's hot homemade chilli relish — sweet and scrummy. Open: Mon/Thurs: 7.30-6, Fri 7.30-5, Sun 10-3. Verdi Verdi ICC, Casemates Tel: 200 60733
Get Listed! Do you own a restaurant, café, or bar in Gibraltar? Get your business listed here
CALL 200 77748 for details All’s Well
Traditional pub in fashionable Casemates area. Named for the 18th century practise of locking gates to the city at night when the guard called ‘All’s Well’. All’s Well serves Bass beers, wine and spirits plus pub fare. English breakfast all day, hot meals such as pork in mushroom sauce, sausage & mash, cod & chips and steak & ale pie plus a range of salads and jacket potatoes. Large terrace. Karaoke Mondays and Wednesdays until late. Free tapas on a Friday 7pm. All’s Well Casemates Square. Tel: 200 72987
bars & pubs
Bridge Bar & Grill
Located on the water’s edge, Ocean Village, just across the bridge from O’Reilly’s. This bar & grill is a fusion of an American themed menu with Tarifa chill out style. Open for breakfast from 9am serving healthy options, freshly squeezed orange juice and Italian Lavazza coffee. Try the spicy Caribbean rum ribs, southern fried chicken bucket, the popular Texas burger or a selection of tasty salads and homemade desserts. London Pride, San Miguel & Carling beer on draught, live sports. Bridge Bar & Grill Ocean Village Tel: 200 66446
90
Cannon Bar
Jane is still there and still packed out with tourists and regulars! Word has it that she nearly managed to escape, but wasn’t allowed to. The famous fish and chips, the odd French speciality, there’s always something happening in the Cannon! Located between Marks & Spencer and the Cathedral just off Main Street. Cannon Bar
Gibraltar Arms On Main Street opposite the cathedral, enjoy a meal, coffee or a cool beer on the terrace and watch the world go by! Bar decorated with rare military plaques from regiments and navy ships visiting Gibraltar. Full breakfast menu served from 7am, draught beers on tap include Old Speckled Hen bitter, Murphys Irish stout, Heineken lager and Strongbow cider. Gibraltar Arms 184 Main Street. Tel: 200 72133
Jury’s Café-Wine Bar
Next to the Law Courts, with a terrace seating area, Jury’s has a selection of Ciabattas, paninis, baguettes and wraps, plus popular sharing dishes, such as Your Honour’s platter. Jacket potatoes, main courses, pasta and some innocent salads too. For those with a sweet tooth, there are tantalising homemade desserts, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, as well as Lavazza coffees and frappes. Open: 7am-midnight Mon-Sat, 9am-midnight Sun. Jury’s Café & Wine Bar 275 Main Street. Tel: 200 67898
Lord Nelson
Bar/brasserie in Casemates. Done out like Nelson’s ship. Starters & snacks include fresh mussels, blue cheese and rocket bruschetta, potato skins, spicy chicken wings and calamares. Main courses from chilli con carne and chicken & mushroom pie, to crispy duck burrito and fish & chips. Jackets, burgers and kid’s menu. Live music on stage nightly. Spacious terrace. Open: 10am till very late. Lord Nelson Bar Brasserie 10 Casemates Tel: 200 50009 Visit: www.lordnelson.gi
e to wher drink & eat the on k Roc
The Lounge Stylish lounge and gastro bar on the quayside at Queensway Quay with very reasonable prices and food from 10am until late. Popular quiz on Sundays (from 7.30pm) and a relaxed friendly atmosphere... always plenty of people / yachties to chat to. Events (matches etc) covered on large TV. Great place to chill out. Pool table. Open: 10am Mon - Sat until late and from 12pm on Sun (get there early for a seat for the quiz). The Lounge Queensway Quay Marina Tel: 200 61118
O’Reilly’s Traditional Irish bar with full HD sports coverage and Irish breakfast from 7am (Sunday from 9am). Guinness on draught. Food includes salads, jackets, beef & Guinness pie, Molly’s mussels, drunken swine, Boxty dishes (potato pancake wrapped around delicioius fillings), sandwiches, rolls, Kildare chicken and much much more. And just like in Ireland there’s no smoking inside, so a great atmosphere for all. O’Reilly’s Ocean Village. Tel: 200 67888
Star Bar
Gibraltar’s oldest bar, just off Main St. Small cosy and famous for its full English breakfast from 7am (9am on Sunday). A full menu including fish & chips, until 10pm. The home of Star Coffee, draught beers include Heineken, Old Speckled Hen, Murphys and Strongbow cider. Managed by Hunter Twins from Stafford, England, also home to Med Golf & Tottenham Hotspur supporters club. Star Bar Parliament Lane. Tel: 200 75924 Visit: www.starbargibraltar.com
The Three Owls The Three Owls is a traditional bar serving best of English beers. Three separate bars/floors: ground floor — big screen TV, pool table, poker machines, bar — open from 10.30am daily. First floor ‘Hoots’ bar, two match pool tables, poker machines, dartboard, bar, open from 5pm daily. Second Floor the ‘Nest’ — American pool table, poker machine, card table, bar — open from 7pm daily and also at weekends for the Rugby Union matches. If you are looking for a sociable game of pool or darts this is the place to be. The Three Owls Irish Town. Tel: 200 77446 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Traditional Pub Serving Traditional Pub Fare, Bass Beers, Wines & Spirits
Visit us and step back in history
Casemates Square Tel: 200 72987
Full menu served inside or on our terrace including British Fish & Chips, Jackets, Salads, Burritos, Homemade Pizzas, our special Fresh Local Mussels and much more. Visit us and buy yourself a souvenir, T-shirts, beer glasses, lighters etc Live music every evening, join our Jam Sessions on Wednesday or Sunday. GLMS Music Venue of the Year. Official Home to Gibraltar Rugby Club Free WiFi
10 Casemates www.lordnelson.gi Tel: 200 50009
• Pizza • Pasta • Salads • Fresh Juices • Cappuccino • Ice Creams
DAILY SPECIALS Grand Casemates Sq Tel: 20044449 take-away or reserve a table
Tel: 200 46993 7 days 11am - 3pm, 6pm - late
Queensway Quay (next to Waterfront)
184 Main Street Tel: 200 72133 open: from 8am (10am on Sun)
restaurant bar guide &
TASTY INDIAN CUISINE
Get Stuffed!
Marina Bay Tel: 200 42006 Take-Away, Sandwiches & Hot Food Diferent Special Every Day salads, soups, pastas, pies, cupcakes, all home made Open 8am-4pm Mon-Fri, 8am-3pm Sat
Indian Cuisine to Eat In or Take Away Unit 1.0.02 Grnd Flr, Block 1 Eurotowers Tel: 200 73711
Casa Pepe Open: Mon-Sat 11am-late 18 Queensway Quay Marina Tel/Fax: 200 46967
BUDDIES pasta casa
Come and enjoy real Italian meals in Gibraltar’s leading pasta house 15 Cannon Lane Tel: 200 40627 for reservations
Award winning breakfasts from 7.30am Great meals & snacks all day Evening Steak House menu Med Golf Clubhouse Tottenham Hotspur HQ Parliament Lane Tel: 200 75924 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE MAGAZINE •• NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 2013 2013 GIBRALTAR
91 91
Desert Island Wines words | Peter Rodney
The long-running programme ‘Desert Island Discs’ is often more revealing of the person being interviewed than may have been intended by that person. Pretentiousness in the choice of records is easily seen; occasionally a record is chosen because of a particular memory, happy or sad, which touches a chord. Either way, the choices and the reasons for them are interesting. The guest is allowed one luxury which must be of no practical use for survival on the desert island. One or two guests have chosen (and been allowed) wine. It struck me that it would be interesting to adapt the format. The guest could pick seven wines to take to the desert island and one disc (instead of a luxury). What would you choose? I still have one bottle of Chateau Batailley 1982. I dare not drink it. What occasion could justify it? But it will come with me to the desert island. Being rescued would be a big enough moment to make it worth opening. But that might mean sharing it with my rescuers — another dilemma.
92
Perhaps I could decant a lesser bottle as well and keep the ’82 to myself. But that would reveal me as selfish and ungrateful. Already I am showing aspects of my character that I would prefer to remain hidden. Assuming the island is sunny then a couple of whites are called for. One simply cannot manage without a Chablis. Laroche (about
£15 from Anglo Hispano) is the standard but there are other — often slightly cheaper — possibilities. As long as the Appellation is Chablis you cannot go far wrong. The steel, the flint and the sheer refreshment of a cool glass cannot be bettered. But it does need to be cool. Is this possible on the desert island? A second white might just as
Given that the budget for the desert island wines is, in principle, unlimited, then a champagne must also be included
well be Barbadillo. I am aware that I seem always to be recommending or mentioning this wine. But the fact remains that it is remarkably good value (especially if, forgive me, bought in Spain) and has the quality of slipping down relatively unnoticed, especially in the sun. This is not the case with other cheapish white wines. The latter can create the same reaction as an over-vinegared chip. Given that the budget for the desert island wines is, in principle, unlimited, then a champagne must also be included. Krug? The Widow? Perhaps a Laurent Perrier vintage 2002 which is just about ready to be drunk now. It is a smaller house producing al-
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
wine ways thoroughly reliable bottles, although they are not cheap (£75 or so). There are three bottles left, and the choice is unbearable. Obviously rosé is not even to be considered so that leaves more reds. But first there must be an indulgence in the shape of a port. Because of its associations with formal dinners and gents’ clubs, port tends to be regarded as a special tipple which should only be drunk on those occasions or in those places. This is not the case. The Portuguese (who do, after all, produce the stuff) have got it right. Anywhere, any time – even (although I shuddered when I saw it) with an ice cube. We are all used to rich rubies; I think I will take a tawny (Fonseca, 1988, about £40). This is lighter than the famed rubies and therefore does not sit so heavily on the stomach after a large meal. It can also be happily drunk before the meal. The last two bottles of red must include something from the New World as they have increased our pleasure so much over the last forty years or so. After considerable thought, there is only room for one because the final place must be taken up with a Burgundy. Should the ‘new’ wine be from Argentina, Australia or South Africa? An Argentinian Malbec just makes it. Hunter Valley (Australia) is terrific from £8 upwards from Hardy’s and others; Wolf Blass in South Africa has very good varietals at the same price level but the Malbec offers all that they can and more. It seems to have all the power of a bulldozer with the finesse of a matador. And, although the budget may be unlimited, it comes in at about £8 which is a lot of bang for the buck. Finally, a Gevrey-Chambertin. I have already got my claret and I can’t leave out the best Burgundy. A 2005 will set me back a mere £200 or so. But on the desert island
column
I will have it all to myself over three days at a couple of glasses a day. I wouldn’t want to be rescued until the fourth day. Now there arises the question which disc to take. Rolling Stones? Wagner? Beatles? Pink Floyd? Verdi? It can only be Beethoven’s Fifth — described by E M Forster as the most sublime noise ever to touch the ear of man. As the guests on the programme always say: “Thank you for allowing me to share my choices”. Your choices may well be different. But you may enjoy making them — and tasting a few more bottles on the way. And what will your choices reveal about your character? n
This is lighter than the famed rubies and therefore does not sit so heavily on the stomach after a large meal
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
93
d n u o r � ow� � The clocks have been turned back, the first rains have inspired our front cover and the season’s events programme is well underway. It is November already and Christmas now seems just a heartbeat away. Last month we saw our first Gibraltar Literary Festival come to the Rock (see photos on these pages of the opening night) with authors talking on as many subjects as the books they have written. This month we have Comedy Rocks - billed as Gibraltar’s first Comedy Festival it promises to bring world class comedy to our stage on 8th and 9th November. There will be an exciting night of jazz and Brazilian music. The culture continues on 20th November with GibDFAS art lecture at the Elliot Hotel at 7.30pm, then what promises to be a fascinating lecture on 21st November on the History of Identity by
94
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
Dennis Beiso as part of the History of Gibraltar lecture series (8pm, John Mackintosh Hall). From Wednesday 13th to Saturday 16th November the sensational musical by Willy Russell, Blood Brothers, will be staged by Rock Theatre and Santos Produtions at Ince’s Hall — get your tickets (£12) for this great show from bloodbrothers. gibraltar@gmail.com — well worth the money! Those charitable folk at the Gibraltar Rotary Club will be holding a Car Boot Sale at Bayside Road car park on Saturday 16th November from 9am - 2pm. Go along to browse the bargains or, if you want a stall (£10), give Barbara a call on 200 78914 and earn some cash from your unwanted items. Birthdays this month include Debra Potts of Chique Boutique in Ocean Village on 4th, Michelle of the Lounge, Queensway Quay on 8th and the lovely Tessa Imossi on 28th November. Many happy returns girls! If you feel inspired by our cover to get down with nature the Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society is holding an evening of invertebrates - molluscs, isopods and other nocturnal critters at the Alameda Gardens from 8.30pm. Call 57534000 to find out more. We really will feel winter has begun on 22nd November when the switching on of our fabulous Christmas lights takes place at the Piazza with Christmas Carols from 6.30pm. This is closely followed on 28th November with the ever popular Convent Christmas Fair (12 noon - 7pm). Mince pie and mulled wine anyone? Where has 2013 gone!
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
95
clubs&activities Arts & Crafts The Arts Centre, Prince Edward’s Rd. Art classes for children (5-6pm Mon, 5-6.30pm Tues, 5-7pm Thurs), adults (Mon - Tues 6.30pm8pm, Wed 6.30pm-8.30pm, life painting Wed 7pm-9pm). Tel: 200 79788. The Fine Arts Association Gallery 1st Floor above Gibraltar Crystal, Casemates. Open 11am-2pm, 4-6pm Mon - Fri, Sat 11am - 2pm. Arts & Crafts Gallery (next door) opens Mon - Fri 9.30am - 5pm (summer) -6pm (winter), Sat 9.30am - 3pm. Exhibition Vin’s Gallery at the Rock, The Rock Hotel. Original paintings, prints, and souvenirs by Vin Mifsud and her pupils. Monday - Saturday 9.30-11am and 8-10pm. The Gibraltar Decorative and Fine Arts Society Affiliated to the UK NADFAS organisation meets third Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm at Eliott Hotel - lecturers & experts from the UK to talk on Art etc. Contact: ChairmanClaus Olesen: 200 02024 claus.olesen@sghambros. com. Membership Ian leBreton: 200 76173 ilebreton@SovereignGroup.com Knit and Natter Group: Tuesdays from 11am3pm, at Arts & Crafts Shop, Casemates balconyFree to join and refreshments provided. Tel: 20073865 for more information. Board Games Chess Club meets in Studio 1, John Mackintosh Hall 8-10.30pm Tues. The Gibraltar Scrabble Club meet at the Rock Hotel on Mondays at 3pm. For further information please ring Vin at 20073660 or Roy at 20075995. All welcome. The Subbuteo Club meets Charles Hunt Room, John Mackintosh Hall 7.30 - 11pm. Dance Adult Dance Classes Wednesday evenings at the Youth Disco Room, Kings Bastion Leisure Centre from 7-8.30pm. Cha-Cha, Salsa and Merengue. Lessons £5 and all proceeds to GibMissionAfrica Charity. Contact Dilip on 200 78714 or dance@trainingtm.net Bellydance classes. Beginners level on Tuesday from 7-8pm at Danza Academy or 8-9pm at Ocean Village fitness centre. Tel 54005593. Salsa Gibraltar Salsa classes held Tuesdays at Laguna Social Club, Laguna Estate. Beginners 7-8.30pm, £5 per lesson. Intermediates 8.30-10pm, £6 per lesson (all profits going to the charity Help Us To Help Them). Contact: Mike 54472000 Email: info@salsagibraltar.com website: www.salsagibraltar.com Modern & Latin American Sequence Dancing Mondays Catholic Community Centre 8.30pm (beginners 7.30). Over 15s welcome. Old & Modern Sequence Dancing sessions at the Catholic Community Centre at 8pm, beginners at 7.30pm, Wednesday. The DSA Old & Modern Sequence Dancing sessions at Central Hall Fridays 8pm, beginners 7.30pm. Tel: 200 78282 or e-mail manvio@ gibraltar.gi Everybody welcome. Modern, Contemporary, Lyrical, Flexibility, Hip Hop & Dance Theatre classes weekly at Urban Dance Studio, 2 Jumpers Bastion. Tel: Yalta (54012212) or Jolene (54015125). Ballet, Modern Theatre, Jazz, Contemporary & Hip Hop classes held weekly at Danza Academy, 68/2 Prince Edward’s Road. Training from 2.5 years to Adult Advanced. Royal Academy of Dancing and Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing exams taken. Competing opportunity with IDF European & World Championships. Tel: Anne-Marie 54027111 or Zulieka 54003973. Aerobics, Step, Dancercise & Zumba classes for women held weekly at Danza Academy, 68/2 Prince Edward’s Rd. Tel: 54027111. Zumba Classes at Urban Dance, Jumpers Bastion, with certified instructor Tyron Walker. Mon & Weds 8-9pm. Tel: 20063959 or 54012212. History & Heritage The Gibraltar Heritage Trust Main Guard, 13 John Mackintosh Sq. Tel: 200 42844. The Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association Dedicated to preservation of Rock’s transport/motoring heritage. Assists members in restoration / maintenance of classic vehicles. Members/vehicles meet 1st Sunday of month, Morrison’s car park from 10am. New members welcome. Tel: 200 44643. Music Gibraltar National Choir and Gibraltar Junior National Choir rehearse on Tuesday & Thursday
96
Don’t be bored... do something fun! 7.30 - 9pm at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. New singers always welcome. Tel: 54831000. St Andrew’s Music Academy Musical Monsters Club, workshops. Group musical activities for kids 3-7 years. Singing, rhythmic games etc. Tel: 200 42690 email: samagib@hotmail.com The Calpe Band Mondays & Wednesdays. For musicians of brass/woodwind instruments of all standards/ages/abilities 7-9pm, 35a Town Range (behind the Senior Citizens Club) Tel: Claire 54017070 email: thecalpebnd@gmail.com Outdoor Activities The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award - exciting selfdevelopment programme for all young people worldwide equipping them with life skills to make a difference to themselves, their communities and the world. 5 million young people from 100+ countries have been motivated to undertake a variety of challenging activities. Contact Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Montagu Bastion, Line Wall Road. Tel: 200 59818 Quizzes The Lounge friendly quiz on Sundays from 8pm right on the quayside at Queensway Quay. Social Clubs Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (Gibraltar Province) meets RAOB Club, Jumpers Bastion on these days: Provincial Grand Lodge, 1st Monday/month, 8pm. Executive Meeting, last Mon/month 7pm. Knights Chapter, 2nd Mon/month 7.30pm. Examining Council, 3rd Mon/month 7pm. William Tilley 2371, Thurs 8pm. Buena Vista 9975, Weds (fortnightly) 7pm. Por Favor 9444, Weds (fortnightly) 7pm. Farewell 10001, Tues 8.30pm. Goldacre 10475 (social) last Fri/month 8pm. Special Interest Clubs & Societies Gibraltar Horticultural Society meets 1st Thurs of month 6pm, John Mac Hall. Spring Flower Show, slide shows, flower arrangement demos, outings to garden centres, annual Alameda Gardens tour. All welcome. Gibraltar Philosophical Society devoted to intellectually stimulating debate. Frequent lectures and seminars on a range of topics. Contact 54008426 (after 6pm) or email gibphilosophy@ live.co.uk for further information. Gibraltar Photographic Society meets on Mon at 7.30pm, Wellington Front. Basic courses, competitions etc. Harley Davidson Owners’ Club www.hdcgib. com The Royal British Legion (Gibraltar Branch). For info/membership contact the Branch Secretary 20074604 or write to PO Box 332, Gibraltar. UN Association of Gibraltar PO Box 599, 22a Main Street. Tel: 200 52108. Creative Writers Group meet Tuesdays at Eliott Hotel bar at 8pm, aimed at learning to write fiction/non-fiction, for pleasure or publication. Session is £5. Contact Carla Tel: 54006696 Sports Supporters Clubs Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Club meet at the Star Bar, Parliament Lane, when Spurs games are televised - call prior to matches to check the game is televised. Great food for a lunch if the KO is early or an early supper if the game is later. For info call Mario on 56280000. Gibraltar Arsenal Supporters Club meet on match days at the Casino Calpe (Ground Floor). Gooners of all ages welcome. Tel: Bill 54010681 or Dion 56619000. Website: www.clubwebsite. co.uk/ArsenalGibraltarSC/. Gibraltar Hammers meet on match days at the Victoria Stadium Bar, Bayside Road. All league games are shown live. All West Ham supporters and their families are welcome. For details visit www.gibraltarhammers.com or e-mail gibraltarhammers@hotmail.com Sports & Fitness Artistic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Artistic Gymnastics Association. Tel: 200 Angela 200 70611 or Sally 200 74661. Athletics: Gibraltar Amateur Athletics Association holds competitions throughout year for juniors, adults and veterans. Two main clubs (Calpeans 200 71807, Lourdians 200 75180) training sessions at Victoria Stadium. Badminton: Recreational badminton weekdays at Victoria Stadium (Tel: 200 78409 for allocations). Gibraltar Badminton Association (affiliated to IBA & EBA) has leagues and training
for adults and secondary school. Tel: Ivan 200 44045 or Linda 200 74753. Basketball: Gibraltar Amateur Basketball Association (affiliated FIBA) leagues/ training for minis, passarelle, cadets, seniors and adults at a variety of levels. Tel: John 200 77253, Randy 200 40727 or Kirsty (minis) 200 49441. Boxing: Gibraltar Amateur Boxing Association (member IABA) gym on Rosia Rd. Over 13s welcome to join. Tuition with ex-pro boxer Ernest Victory (200 75513 w, 200 42788 h). Cheerleading: Gibraltar Cheerleading Association, girls/boys all ages. Chearleading and street cheer/hip hop at Victoria Stadium. Recreational / competitive levels. Contact Gina: 58008338. Canoeing: Gibraltar Canoeing Association. Tel: Nigel 200 52917 or Eugene 58014000. Cricket: Gibraltar Cricket, National Governing Body & Associate Member of ICC. Governs men’s, women’s, boys’ & girls’ cricket - league & cup competitions and in-schools coaching. www.gibraltarcricket.com email: info@gibcricket.com Twitter: @Gibraltar_Crick Cycling: Gibraltar Cycling Association various cycling tours. Tel: Uriel 200 79359. Darts: Gibraltar Darts Association (member WDF) mens/ladies/youth leagues/competitions. Tel: Darren 54027171 “Secretary”, Dyson “Youth Rep” 54024149, Justin “President” 54022622 Email: info@gibraltardarts.com Football: Gibraltar Football Association leagues/competitions for all ages October-May. Futsal in summer, Victoria Stadium. Tel: 200 42941 www.gfa.gi. Senior Tel: Albert 200 41515, Junior Tel: Richard 58654000, Women’s Tel: Brian 200 52299. Recreational football for over 35s Tel: Richard 200 70320. Gaelic Football Club (Irish sport): males of any age welcome. Get fit, play sport, meet new friends, travel around Spain/Europe and play an exciting and competitve sport. Training every Wednesday in La Linea 7-a-side pitches at 8.30pm. Andalucia League with Seville and Marbella to play matches home and away monthly. Email team@gibraltargaels.com or visit www.gibraltargaels.com. Golf: Med Golf tournaments held monthly. Tel: 200 79575 for tournament venues/dates. Gibraltar Golf Union has competitions through year, EGU handicaps. Tel: Bernie 200 78844. Hockey: Gibraltar Hockey Association (members FIH & EHF) high standard competitions/ training for adults/juniors. Tel: Eric 200 74156 Peter 200 72730. Iaido Gibraltar - teaches the Japanese sword (Katana), classes every week, visit www.iaidogibraltar.com Iwa Dojo, Kendo & Jujitsu, classes every week, for kids/adults, visit www.iwadojo.com email: dbocarisa@iwadojo.com Tel: 54529000 Judo: Gibraltar Judo Association UKMAF recognised instructors for all ages and levels at Budokai Martial Arts Centre, Wellington Front. Tel: Charlie 200 73116 or Peter 200 73225. Ju-jitsu: Gibraltar Ju-jitsu Academy training and grading for juniors/seniors held during evening at 4 North Jumpers Bastion (Rosia Rd). Tel: Tony 200 79855 or club 200 47259. Karate-do Shotokai: Gibraltar Karate-do Shotokai Association sessions for junior/seniors, gradings and demos at Karate Clubhouse, 41H Town Range Tel: Andrew 200 48908. Motorboat Racing: Gibraltar Motorboat Racing Association Tel: Wayne 200 75211. Netball: Gibraltar Netball Association (affiliated FENA & IFNA) competitions through year, senior / junior leagues. Tel: 200 41795 or 200 41874. Petanque: Gibraltar Petanque Association plays at Giralda Gardens, Smith Dorrien Ave. New members welcome. Tel: 200 70929. Pilates: Monday & Wednesday 11-12am for beginners, and intermediate classes Monday & Wednesday 9:30-10:45am, at Shotokai Karate Centre. Contact Chantal: 60618882. Pool: Gibraltar Pool Association (member EUKPF) home and away league played on Thurs through season. Tel: Linda 200 74753. Rhythmic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Rhythmic Gymnastics Association runs sessions for 4 years of age and upwards, weekday evenings. For information contact Sally Tel: 200 74661. Rugby: Gibraltar Rugby Football Union training for Colts (14+), seniors and veterans. Play in Andalusia 1st Division Oct-April. Tel: 200 72185 Sailing: Gibraltar Yachting Association junior/ senior competitive programme (April - Oct) Tel: RGYC 200 48847. Sea Angling: Gibraltar Federation of Sea An-
what a page turner! www.thegibraltarmagazine.com
glers (members FIPS-M & CIPS) Superb calendar of events with four clubs participating. Tel: Mario 200 72622 or Charlie 200 74337. Shooting: Gibraltar Shooting Federation (over 14s). Rifle, Europa Point range (Joe 200 74973); clay pigeon, East Side (Harry 200 74354); Pistol, near Royal Naval Hospital (Fidel 200 71990). Skating: Gibraltar Skating and Xtreme Sports Association. State of art ramps for Xtreme/aggressive roller blading /skate boarding. Leisure skating facilities provided within excellent rink (when not used for roller hockey training). Tel: Eric 200 70710 (after 5). Snooker: Members of European Billiards & Snooker Association - facilities at Jumpers Bastion with 3 tables. Professional coaching for juniors/seniors. Organised leagues/tournaments and participation in international competitions. Tel: Sean Galligan 56262000 or Lee Prickman 54000068, email info@gibraltarsnooker.com Snorkelling & Spear Fishing: Over 14s for snorkelling, over 16s for spear fishing. Tel: Joseph 200 75020. Squash: Gibraltar Squash Association, Squash Centre, South Pavilion Road (members WSF & ESF). Adult/junior tournaments/coaching. Tel: 200 44922 or 200 73260. Sub-Aqua: Gibraltar Sub-Aqua Association taster dives for over 14s, tuition from local clubs. Voluntary sports clubs: Tel: Phil 200 44606, Noah’s Dive Club Tel: Leslie 200 79601, 888s Dive Club Tel: Martin 200 70944. Commercial sports diving schools also available. Swimming: Gibraltar Amateur Swimming Association (member FINA & LEN) opens its pool for leisure swimming Mon - Fri 7-8.45am, 12- 4pm, 8- 9pm. Junior lessons, squad for committed swimmers, water polo (Rebecca 200 72869). Table Tennis: Gibraltar Table Tennis Association (members ITTA) training / playing sessions, Victoria Stadium, Tues 6-10pm and Thurs 8-11pm with coaching and league competition. Lizanne 200 45071/54020477 or Eugene 58014000. Taekwondo: Gibraltar Taekwondo Association classes/gradings Tel: 200 Mari 44142. Tai Chi: Children’s fun Tai Chi at the Yoga Centre, 33 Town Range, Saturdays 11-12am. Beginners Tuesdays & Thursdays at Kings Bastion Leisure Centre. 6.30-8pm. Adults £5, Children £2, all proceeds to GibMissionAfrica Charity. Contact Dilip on 200 78714 or rocktaichi@traningtm.net Tennis: Gibraltar Tennis Association, Sandpits Tennis Club, excellent junior development programme. Courses for adults, leagues / competitions. Tel: Frank 200 77035. Ten-Pin Bowling: Ten-Pin Bowling takes place at King’s Bowl in the King’s Bastion Leisure Centre every day. To have a go call 200 77338 to reserve your lane. Gibraltar Ten Pin Bowling (members FIQ & WTBA) leagues, training for juniors and squad. Contact Charly on 56014000 or Paul on 54029749. Triathlon: Gibraltar Triathlon Union (members ITU) Chris 200 75857 or Harvey 200 55847. Volleyball: Gibraltar Volleyball Association (members W & EVF) training, leagues, competitions for juniors/seniors. Tony 200 40478 or Elizabeth 58306000. Yoga: Integral Yoga Centre runs a full programme of classes from Mon-Fri at 33 Town Range. Tel: 200 41389. All welcome. Theatrical Groups Gibraltar Amateur Drama Association Ince’s Hall Theatre Complex, 310 Main Street Email:gibdrama@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 200 42237 www.geocities.com/gibdrama Trafalgar Theatre Group meets 2nd Wed of month, Garrison Library 8pm. All welcome. Theatrix: Contact Trevor and Iris on Tel: 54006176 or email theatrixgib@yahoo.co.uk
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
events update
Support Groups Alcoholics Anonymous meet 7pm Tues & Thurs at Nazareth Hse Tel: 200 73774. A Step Forward support for single, separated, divorced/widowed people, meet 8pm Mon at St Andrew’s Church. Mummy and Me Breastfeeding Support Group for mums who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have breastfed to get together for coffee, chat and support. Partners and older children welcome. Meets first Wednesday of every month at Chilton Court Community Hall at 1.30pm. Enquiries and support 54014517. Childline Gibraltar confidential phone line for children in need. Freephone 8008 - 7 days a week 6pm - 10pm. Citizens’ Advice Bureau Open Mon-Fri 9.30-4pm. Tel: 200 40006 Email: info@ cab.gi or visit 10 Governor’s Lane. No appointment necessary, no charge. Gibraltar CAB outreach clinics at St Bernard’s Hospital every Tuesday. Advisors available at 1st floor reception, Zone 4, 9am-3pm. Info and advice is free, confidential and impartial. COPE Support group for people with Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia or Rheumatoid Arthritis. Formed to ease day-to-day challenges of individuals, families and care partner. Meetings at Catholic Community Centre Book Shop at 7.30pm first Thursday of each month. Contact Sue Reyes Tel: 200 51469 Email: copeadsupport@hotmail.com Dignity At Work Now. Confidential support and advice for those who are being bullied at work. Tel: 57799000 Mon - Thur 8pm-9pm Families Anonymous Support group for relatives and friends who are concerned about the use of drugs or related behavioural problems. Meet alternate Thursdays at 9pm at Nazareth House. For info Tel: 200 70047 or 200 73465. Gibraltar Cardiac Rehabilitation and Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 8.30pm at the John Mac Hall, except for July and August. Gibraltar Dyslexia Support Group 3/8 Serfaty’s Passage Tel: 200 78509 Mobile: 54007924 website: www.gdsg.co.uk Gibraltar Marriage Care. Free relationship counselling, including pre-marriage education (under auspices of Catholic Church, but open to all). Tel: 200 71717. Gibraltar Society for the Visually Impaired. Tel: 200 50111 (24hr answering service). Hope. miscarriage support Tel: 200 41817. Narcotics Anonymous Tel: 200 70720 Overeaters Anonymous support group for compulsive overeating problems. Tel: helpline for meetings info 200 42581. Parental Support Group, helping parents and grandparents with restrictive access to their children and granchildren. Tel: Richard 200 46536, Jason 200 76618, Dominic 54019602. Psychological Support Group, PO Box 161, Nazareth House. Meet Tuesdays at 7pm, Fridays 8pm. Tel: 200 51623. SSAFA Forces Help Gibraltar, is a national charity, to assist serving and exService personnel and their families. Tel: (5)5481. Email: Susan GIB-CST-JSWPA@ mod.uk With Dignity Gibraltar support for separated, divorced/widowed or single people. Meet Weds 9pm, Catholic Community Centre, Line Wall Rd. Outings/activities. Tel: 54007181 or 200 79957. Women in Need. Voluntary organisation for all victims of domestic violence. Refuge available. Tel: 200 42581 (24 hrs).
London L-R: Gary Tilbrook, Geoff Slade, Mike Perrin, Jonathan Rix, Russell Meredith, Danny Gibson, Chris Hill, Peter Goodright, Carl Cripps, Enda Conway, Colin Bailey, Rob Bailey.
London On Top of the World October saw the second staging of the SMS Ryder Cup, and a stunning victory by the London team over the current holders, the Rest of the World. The event was set up by a bunch of golfing enthusiasts known as the SMS (Sunday Morning Society). The society was formed in the Lounge Bar, Queensway Quay and from an original group of 3 or 4, its numbers have now reached 25, all of who share a love of golf... and the odd drink. After a strongly-contested win by the Rest of the World at Atalaya Park in last year’s inaugural event the three-day competition (12 players per team) was set to be fierce at Santa Clara, Mijas and El Paraiso courses. Kit and equipment sponsors for the event were Octagon Insurance, Tradewise Insurance and Kedhlow Ltd. Team captains were London - Danny Gibson, CEO of insurance company Casualty & General; and Rest of the World - Scottish
Jim Dickson, who was previously Project Director at Serco. By 5pm on Sunday at El Paraiso it became clear that London had secured 7½ points, the minimum
Rest of the World L-R: Dave Watt, Steve Potter, Neil Entwistle, Jim Dickson, Iqbal Dharamsi, Denis Lafferty, Brij Goel, Bert Main, Derren Vincent, James Moorehead, Gary Chant and, reclining, Andy Cunningham
Taekwondo Success in Scotland
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
needed to win. That evening, the trophy was returned to its rightful home, on top of the Pukka Pie cabinet behind the bar in the Lounge, adorned with a new name. n
The team Dana Garcia, Alexandra Lara and Megan Ruiz with Karissa Garcia and Jackie Lara
In October a team from the Gibraltar Taekwondo, representing Gibraltar, participated at the 5th Scottish Open International Poomsae Championships held in Grangemouth, Scotland. Dana Garcia and Alex Lara competed in the “A Class – Individual Under 29” and made it to the finals (Dana came 5th, Alex 6th). Megan Ruiz competed in the “A Class - Individual Under 14” category, and won Bronze. The synchronized team Dana, Alex and Megan competed in the “A Class – Teams – 1st Team” and won Silver. Visit www.taekwondo.gi email: tkdgarcia@hotmail.co.uk or Tel: 20044142 for information.
97
sapphir
information
T
he flora and fauna on the Upper Rock are considered of great conservational value. It’s the perfect place for birdwatchers, as migratory species use Gibraltar as the shortest crossing between Europe and Africa. Botanists will also be interested to see over 600 species of flowering plants, including some unique to Gibraltar. Watch out for colourful lizards, non-venemous Horseshoe Whipsnakes, butterflies and pipistrelle bats. Info on flora and fauna at the Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society’s information centre at Jews Gate. St. Michael’s Cave: The cave comprises an upper hall with five connecting passages and drops of 40-150ft to a smaller hall. A further succession of chambers, some at 250ft below the entrance, is reached through narrow holes. The Cathedral Cave is open to visitors and is used as an auditorium for concerts and theatre. The cave was prepared as a hospital in WWII, but never used. A further series of chambers ending in a mini lake is called Lower St. Michael’s Cave and can be visited with a guide. The Monkeys’ Den: There are around 160 monkeys in the Park and around 30 can be seen at the Monkey’s Den. Often called apes, they are tail-less Barbary macaques and Europe’s only free living monkeys. £500 fine for feeding the monkeys - don’t do it! The Great Siege Tunnels: Tunnelling in the Rock began during the Great Siege (1779-1783) when France and Spain made an attempt to recapture the Rock while Britain was busy with the American War of Independence. Governor General Elliot offered a reward to anyone who could tell him how to mount a gun on the north face of the Rock. Sgt. Major Ince suggested tunnelling and there are over 30 miles of tunnels inside the Rock with various exhibitions inside. The Military Heritage Centre: Housed in one of the Rock’s many historic batteries, the Military Heritage Centre displays information on the development of Gibraltar’s military defences through the ages. A City Under Siege Exhibition: Exhibits depicting the lives of civilian population during the many sieges, are housed in one of the earliest British building on the Rock. Original graffiti, drawn by duty soldiers to stop themselves falling asleep, is still visible, the earliest dating back to 1726. The Moorish Castle: actually just part of a Moorish town and castle which was built up during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, spearheaded from Gibraltar in 711AD by Tarik-ibnZeyad (“Gibraltar” is a corruption of the Arabic words “Jebel Tarik” - Tarik’s mountain). The part we see today, The Tower of Homage, dates back to 1333AD, when Abu’l Hassan recaptured the Rock from Spain. Natural History & Heritage Park Walks: Med Steps is a stunning walk with the steep climb at the end rewarded with spectacular views of the Rock and Spain. Another recommended walk is St Michael’s Cave through to Charles V Wall but walkers should be relatively fit for both. It
98
is also pleasant walking along the upper rock roads. Brochures available free from all Tourist Board offices. Botanical Gardens: Opened in 1816, the Alameda Botanical Gardens fell into disrepair but are being restored to their former glory. Visitors can enjoy a stroll beneath pines, dragon trees and palms, and see many of Gibraltar’s native plants as well as exotic species. The shop sells environmentally friendly gifts, plants and seeds. Tel: 200 72639/200 74022. Parking. Nelson’s Anchorage: Rosia Road 9.30am - 5.15pm Monday to Saturday (last entry at 5pm). Closed on Sunday. Admission: £1.00 (free with Nature Reserve ticket. Tickets for the nature reserve can also be bought at this attraction). Parson’s Lodge: Rosia Road. Narrow limestone outcrop with a labyrinth of tunnels surmounted by an impressive battery, which has witnessed the development of coast artillery over 300 years. Housed three 18 ton 10-inch rifled muzzle loaders positioned behind a unique sandwich of armour plate/teak, known as ‘Gibraltar Shields’. Flat Bastion Magazine Flat Bastion Road, Geological Research Station and Lithology of Gibraltar. To visit contact: F. Gomez Tel. 200 44460, P. Hodkinson Tel. 200 43910. Shrine of Our Lady of Europe (Museum within premises) Europa Road. 10am-7pm Monday to Friday, 11am-7pm Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays. Closed 1pm - 2pm. Trafalgar Cemetery: Trafalgar Rd, 9am - 7pm daily (free).
Business Information Financial Serv. Commission Tel: 200 40283/4 Chamber of Commerce Tel: 200 78376 Federation Small Business Tel: 200 47722 Company Registry . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 200 78193 Useful Numbers Airport (general info.). . . . . . . . . Tel: 200 73026 Hospital, St Bernards. . . . . . . . . Tel: 200 79700 Weather information. . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 5-3416 Frontier Queue Update Tel: 200 42777 Gibraltar Museum Tel: 200 74289 18/20 Bomb House Lane open 10am-6pm (Sat. 10am-2pm). Closed on Sunday. Admission: Adults £2/Children under 12 years £1. Exhibitions also at Casemates gallery. Registry Office Tel: 200 72289 It is possible to get married on the Rock within 48 hours. A fact taken advantage of by stars such as Sean Connery and John Lennon. Rock Tours by Taxi Tel: 200 70052 As well as
History Alive Every Saturday morning the
Rock’s past is brought alive by a troop of soldiers in 18th century period uniform. The soldiers march from Bomb House Lane at 12 noon to Casemates. At Casemates they carry out a “Ceremony of the Keys” and then march back up Main Street to the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned.
offering normal fares, taxis provide Rock Tours taking in the Upper Rock, Europa Point and other sites of interest. It is the best way to see the Rock’s major features in a short time. John Mackintosh Hall Tel: 200 75669 Includes cafeteria, theatre, exhibition rooms and library. 308 Main Street 9.30am - 11pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekends. Bicycle Racks Bicycle parking is provided at the following locations: Europort Road, Casemates Tunnel, Land Port Ditch, Fish Market Road, Commonwealth Car Park, Reclamation Road (by English Steps) + Line Wall Road. Gibibikes is a scheme for public use of bikes taken from stations around the Rock. Visit www.gibibikes.gi for info. Public Holidays 2013 Gibraltar & United Kingdom New Year’s Day Tuesday 1 January Commonwealth Day Monday 11 March* Good Friday Friday 29 March Easter Monday Monday 1 April Worker’s Memorial Day Friday 26 April* May Day Wednesday 1 May Spring Bank Holiday Monday 27 May Queen’s Birthday Monday 17 June Late Summer Bank Holiday Monday 26 August Gibraltar National Day Tuesday 10 September* Christmas Day Wednesday 25 December Boxing Day Thursday 26 December *Gibraltar only
Gibraltar Postcode - GX11 1AA
Emergency Services
Emergency calls only: Fire/Ambulance................................... Tel: 190 Police............................................ Tel: 199/112 Emergency Number Tel: 112 Non-urgent calls: Ambulance Station Tel: 200 75728 Police........................................ Tel: 200 72500 os Emergency N : .............Tel: (5) 5026 / (5) 3598
GibiBikes Locations • Frontier • Victoria Stadium • Waterport Road (Watergardens) • Waterport Road (Waterport Terraces) • Eurotowers • Reclamation Road (Leisure Centre) • Commonwealth Parade Car Park • Rosia Road (Jumpers building) • Rosia Road (Bayview Terraces) • Grand Parade Car Park (Cable Car) • Southport Gates (Ince’s Hall) • Line Wall Road (City Hall) • Line Wall Road (Orange Bastion) • Market Place • Eastern Beach Road (coming soon) • Catalan Bay (viewing platform) • St Joseph’s School • Europa Point • Rosia Parade Visit www.gibibikes.gi to find out more about how you can benefit from GibiBikes
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER 2013
The Gibraltar Magazine is published and produced by Guide Line Promotions Ltd, La Bayuca, 21 Turnbull’s Lane, Gibraltar. Tel/Fax: (+350) 200 77748
N
atural History & Heritage Park admission 9.30am to 7pm by tickets (includes entrance to sites - St. Michael’s Cave, Monkey’s Den, Great Siege Tunnels, Military Heritage Centre, ‘A City Under Siege’ Exhibition and Moorish Castle). Facilities closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Adults £10, children 5-12 years: £5, children age under 4 free, vehicles £2. Private vehicles may be restricted at certain times, tours available by taxi/mini bus. Also reached by cable car (leaves Grand Parade 9.30am-5.15pm Mon-Sun. Last cable down: 5.45pm). 50p per person to walk with no entrance tickets.
sapphire-gibmag-tree:Layout 1 9/18/13 11:53 AM Page 1
Life has moved on...line
The Gibraltar Magazine is published and produced by Guide Line Promotions Ltd, La Bayuca, 21 Turnbull’s Lane, Gibraltar. Tel/Fax: (+350) 200 77748
Sapphire Networks, growing with your needs
www.sapphire.gi +350 200 47 200 - info@sapphire.gi Suite 3.0.3 Eurotowers, PO Box 797, Gibraltar