The Gibraltar Magazine - December 2014

20 # 02 December 2014

dining guide • business & finance • sport & leisure • history • property • community

the gibraltar magazine

gibraltar the

December 2014 Vol. 20 # 02 FREE

Season’s Greetings Much to Admire in Ghengis Khan

Andrea’s Return

to the limelight

Photo Memories

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JUNE 2007

20 # 02 December 2014

dining guide • business & finance • sport & leisure • history • property • community

the gibraltar magazine

gibraltar the

December 2014 Vol. 20 # 02 FREE

Season’s Greetings Much to Admire in Ghengis Khan Andrea’s Return to the limelight

Photo Memories

contents Business & Finance 8 Business & Finance Guide 9 Mrs Rock is Unwell 14 The Style Bank 16 Marcus Killick: Taking Stock 20 Nigel Feetham: Much to admire

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20 # 02 DECEMBER 2014

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Cover: Christmas lights outside the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned on Main Street

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 © 2014 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

in Ghengis Khan 23 Photo Call: Xerox Smart Print Event 24 HR: Annual Performance

Reviews: What’s The Point?

25 Key Appointments 28 Gibraltar: In Good Company

Past Revisited 47 Ice Age Europe 62 From Gibraltar Boy Sailor to

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Electrical Genius Future Vision: Gibraltar and the SS Titan

Arts & Leisure 60 Ta Dah! It’s the Happy Hooves

Author Oh! Oh! Oh! Freddie Poggio: Photo Memories 72 What’s On: December 79 Sylvina Has a Plan and it is

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20 # 02 out for Christmas Photo Call: Gibunco Gibraltar International Literary Festival Play it Again Sam: Sam Abudarham’s Songs of Songs

Health & Well-being 52 Dr Marco Vricella: the art of

54 58

restoring form & functions Me Time for Mums Health Directory

Appetite 87 Festive Food 88 Food & Drink Directory 92 Wine Column: Perfect Partners

41

Features 35

CAB Ivan Cruz: Improving Lives Brick by Brick 41 Andrea Simpson: A Return to the Limelight

Property 32 36 38

Regulars

74 Puzzle Page 40 78 Image of the Month 82 Questions Time: What is

Save Resources This Christmas Festive Decor Managing Tenant Deposits...

Properly (Part 3) Property Directory

Your

Favourite Part of Christmas?

94 Around Town

Information 64 City Centre Map 88 Clubs & Activities 98 Gibraltar Information

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DEEMBER 2014

24/11/2014 11:41

Mrs Rock is unwell...

words | Ian Le Breton

Perhaps that is putting it too strongly. After all Mrs Rock is actually in pretty good health and I’m certainly not suggesting that she is “unwell” in the way that the famously dissolute Spectator columnist Jeffery Bernard was often described as “unwell”. However Mrs Rock is more than a tad confused. In fact she’s also more than a tad bothered because, on top of everything else, she has no real idea what a “tad” is. She thought she might look it up on her son’s interweb thing.

We only seem to encounter our Gibraltarian he called it — and we spent most of the day matriarch at this time of year — the time of being shouted at by an estate agent. He even peace and goodwill to all, especially readers kept insisting that Tangiers was actually called of The Gibraltar Magazine. So what is it that is troubling our compatriot this December?

As always, her son Sheridan is to blame. The “family Christmas lunch” has come round again, the annual occasion when the family —at Sheridan’s insistence — take stock of matters financial.

This year Mr Rock has declined the invitation. “Last year, that boy took us all the way to blimmin’ Africa and tried to get us to buy an apartment there,” he protested. Readers might recall the Rock’s unsuccessful foray to Tangiers in 2013. “He wanted to shift us out of Gibraltar — international succession planning,

“Do you have any bitcoins on you dear?” she whispered. “That you could show me?” “Um, no,” said Sheridan. “I mean they don’t really exist in a physical sense”

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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Tangier, as if the ‘s’ had just suddenly been obliterated. I’m not putting myself through that again.”

So this year’s lunch was to be “à deux” — just Mrs Rock and Sheridan — and the invitation had just arrived. But what was this? Lunch at sea? The expensively printed card announced in beautiful italics “lunch on board Sunborn, the floating five-star hotel”. Which is why Mrs Rock was a “tad’ confused. Of course she’d admired the sleek lines of the massive vessel of course on her occasional visits down to Ocean Village. But this was from afar. It was quite a different matter to actually go on board for lunch. What would she wear and would she suffer from el mareo, which normally struck as soon as she stepped off a jetty? And where

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finance would the boat go? She wasn’t up for going back to that Tangier — with or without an “s” — thank you very much. Oh no!

“What do you mean, it doesn’t actually move,” she said to Sheridan. She thought it very odd that the ship didn’t go anywhere.

“Like a cart without a horse”, her dad might have said. Anyway the big day finally dawned — a beautifully clear Gibraltar winter morning — and Sheridan came to pick her up in that fancy new motor car he had just bought “with the bank’s money, ha ha”, as he said. He may have called himself a “financial planning consultant” but, as far as she knew, he didn’t work in a bank. In fact there was a lot she didn’t know about Sheridan but still, she was determined to enjoy her lunch and to get him to answer these financial questions that still troubled her.

So on board she went, passport in hand. “Put that away, mother”, Sheridan hissed. “You didn’t need to bring that.” An elevator — just imagine, in a boat! — whisked them up to the top floor and, sure enough, there was a fancy restaurant with some even fancier waiting staff.

They were ushered to a table and, before you could say “Anne Robinson”, their orders were being taken. Mrs Rock didn’t really get on with haute cuisine — all those funny names put her off from the amuse-bouches to the petit fours.

So, much to Sheridan’s horror, she ordered a well-done steak and chips with a small beer.

This done, she laid out her financial concerns to Sheridan. If Gibraltar’s economy was doing so well, as the Chief Minister kept reminding her, why was she still not earning any interest to speak of on her savings account? And if Spain was in such a state, why was she not getting more euros (or should that be euro?) when she crossed over to go to Mercadona? And if we were coming to the end of the downturn, why were some people still so gloomy? Like Chicken-licken — who fortunately wasn’t on the lunch menu — Mrs Rock had a tendency to believe that one falling acorn meant the sky would soon come crashing down on her head.

This was Sheridan’s moment. Cometh the hour! He set about explaining the situation in the eurozone (how the euro was weak but the pound, in some ways, even weaker); the risk of deflation, a triple-dip recession, negative interest rates at the ECB and so on. Such was his enthusiasm for the subject that he failed to notice that his mother’s eyes had glazed over and that her head had almost sunk into her half-eaten steak-frites.

Shaking herself awake just before chin hit

plate, Mrs Rock interrupted: “I’m sure you know best, dear, but it’s so much nicer when I read that chap who writes every month in the magazine.” Sheridan rolled his eyes. “He’s always so much more positive about things.”

Sheridan was waiting for this. “Are you absolutely sure that chap actually exists, mother?” he riposted. “I mean have you ever seen anyone actually walking around Gibraltar in rose-tinted spectacles? He wouldn’t be too hard to spot, would he? I think the editor of The Gibraltar Magazine has made him up — a bit like that Martin Lukes who used to write in the FT until they packed him off to jail.” Mrs Rock had no idea who Martin Lukes was — but he certainly sounded like one of Sheridan’s dubious acquaintances.

“So anyway, mother,” Sheridan said.

“There’s no point in hanging around waiting for interest rates to go up. You should do what I’ve done and invest in bitcoins.” “Really, dear?” Mrs Rock responded, not sure she had heard correctly, “What on earth are bit coins?”

“They’re not on earth at all,” smirked her son, “they’re in cyberspace. Bitcoins are the first fully implemented, decentralised crypto currency.

There’ll be 21 million of them by 2140.” Mrs Rock glanced around at the nearby tables to see if anyone was staring at them because Sheridan seemed to be talking complete gibberish — or cobbledick as she preferred to call it.

“So, this is what I was thinking,” Sheridan moved in for the kill. “As you and Dad aren’t interested in buying an apartment in Tangier – er, I mean engaging in pro-active intergenerational succession planning — I thought perhaps you might like to come in with me and join the bitcoin party. The price varies a lot, but that’s where I — I mean we — can make money.

Buying and selling and winning every time.”

Sheridan was palpably excited. After all this was the future and his mother was always saying how concerned she was about his future.

Mrs Rock stopped looking around, leaned to-

But really, buying non-existent coins on the interweb thing.

This was really was taking the biscuit

wards him over the table. His excitement grew.

“Do you have any bitcoins on you dear?” she whispered. “That you could show me?” “Um, no,” said Sheridan. “I mean they don’t really exist in a physical sense. The whole idea is that you trade them online and use logarithms to mine them.”

“So they don’t exist but you can mine them?

With log-a-somethings?” Mrs Rock looked bewildered again. Last year had been bad enough with Sheridan’s idea of buying a flat in Tangier that she and Mr Rock would never live in. At least she knew what an apartment was, even if it was on Boulevard Pasteur in Tangier. But really, buying non-existent coins on the interweb thing. This was really taking the biscuit. She finished her beer and refilled the glass from her son’s bottle of Marques de Caceres. She needed something medicinal and besides, from the way he was talking, she felt he’d probably had quite enough. It was just like all that “surfing” that Sheridan claimed he did — when she knew he was at home in his flat! Perhaps his father was right. He did need to get out more.

She gulped down the wine in one go. “Well, dear, it’s been a lovely lunch — thank you”.

She was sure she had just felt the ship move.

Sunborn — son born. There must be something in that. In truth it was hugely impressive but she was quite happy when Sheridan walked her down the gangplank and back on to dry land. When she bade him farewell she reflected that she was just as confused as ever about her finances. Nevertheless, she smiled, despite the strange course that lunch had taken, she no longer felt unwell. And, she was glad to see, that chap in the specs from the magazine had sent her another Christmas card. Ah yes, the message inside was very reassuring…

“With season’s greetings and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year 2015, on behalf of all the staff at Sovereign in Gibraltar”. n

Ian Le Breton

The Gibraltar Magazine staff would like to wish all readers, clients and friends a very happy festive season, an enjoyable Christmas-time, and a prosperous & healthy 2015 10

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DEEMBER 2014

24/11/2014 12:33

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • SEPTEMBER 2013

11

shorts

What a Difference 2 Days Make

Lloyds Bank Gibraltar Ltd staff spent the day at local charitable organisation Nazareth House helping to renovate the main building and providing other support, including food and clothing donations, as a part of the Day to Make a Difference — initiative of the Lloyds Bank Volunteer Week, which is now in its second year after a hugely successful start in 2013.

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According to the Managing Director of Lloyds Bank Gibraltar, Jon Farley, “Volunteer Week focuses on the impact we can make for the charities and community groups that we support through volunteering and is an opportunity to build sustainable relationships in the community. It forms part of our group-wide commitment to helping our communities prosper

n GET INVOLVED

Gibraltar’s Leading Data and Records Management Specialists

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

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

23/11/2014 19:20

shorts Make a Difference, Gibraltar’s Clean up the World Day and our recent ‘Spinathon’ where Lloyds Bank Gibraltar colleagues cycled 300km in 12 consecutive hours in aid of Cancer Relief Gibraltar.”

Every member of Lloyds Bank Gibraltar’s available staff participated as part of two teams across the two days at Nazareth House, re-painting the walls (paint kindly donated by The Paint Shop, Gibraltar), upgrading

shower facilities and providing food and clothing donations.

A grand total of 140 hours were volunteered. Local co-ordinator at Nazareth House, Conchi Ramagge said, “We are so pleased with the kind support we have received from Lloyds Bank Gibraltar staff this week. It has been a very enjoyable two days and a lot has been accomplished.

What a difference two days can make!” n

Government Buys Back Gibtelecom Shares In mid-November Gibtelecom announced that the company’s shareholders have signed a Share Purchase Agreement, allowing HM Government of Gibraltar to buy back Telekom Slovenije’s 50% shareholding in the Company.

Commenting on the transaction, Gibtelecom’s Chairman and Deputy Chief Minister, The Hon Joseph Garcia, said “In the light of the ongoing sale of the Telekom Slovenije group this shares buyback enables the Government to influence the way forward on the ownership of a communications business that plays an important role for Gibraltar in today’s digital economy. The Government did not want to leave the decision on a future strategic partner for Gibtelecom to be driven by others outside Gibraltar, as part of a wider sale of the Telekom Slovenije business”. Mr Rudolf Skobe, President of the Telekom Slovenije Management Board, added that

“the Gibraltar Government and the two companies have been great partners for over seven years and we are proud to have been a part of the Gibtelecom success story. It makes sense for Gibraltar to determine what happens next to Gibtelecom”.

The transaction is due to complete at a Gibtelecom Board meeting scheduled to be held in December 2014, with a purchase price of €47.7 million. In moving forward under the ownership change, a company spokesperson said that “For Gibtelecom it is business as usual and we expect to continue to operate with the Government as its sole shareholder on an arm’s length basis as is now the case.” n

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

26/11/2014 20:14

Jyske: Stylish Banking Entering the stylishly refurbished Jyske Bank on Main Street you could be forgiven for thinking you had wandered into a swish boutique hotel by mistake. Go further and walk past the meeting room with different levels and cushions, or enter the ‘Bodega’ meeting room and you will feel anywhere but a bank.

Kay Bojesen monkeys hang from shelves and inspirational

with the old style of shutters retained. At no time is there a feeling that the facade of the residential property has been tampered with and it still remains the elegant 19th century type of building which graced all Main Street.

The first floor flat has been transformed into informal offices with catering facilities for both staff and clients , and giving a modern vision of a 21st century bank.

The striking chandelier hanging from what was once the first floor is a centre of attraction. It is both modern and traditional, giving the banking hall a special distinction.

Gone are the days of banks giving the impression of lack of imagination and style, and there is now a return to comfort and good taste to welcome the clients.

The effect is stunning, making walking into the bank a very unique sensation, with a marvelous sense of space.”

quotes are picked out on the walls.

If this is the future of banking environments then banking is set to be a more relaxed and enjoyable activity.

The Danish bank’s history in Gibraltar begins in 1987 when it acquired Banco Galliano renaming it Jyske Bank (Gibraltar) Limited, it is fitting then at we quote Jimmy Galliano MBE on the refurb of the premises: “It is only after entering the premises, through obviously new sliding doors, that the transformation is seen, and one appreciates the delicacy with which it has been achieved.

At all times the external aspect Jyske Bank (Gibraltar) is a subsidiary of the building has been respected, of Jyske Bank A/S.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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T form cate and visi

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MARCUS KILLICK Taking Stock interview | Lynne Williams, Assistant Vice President, Barclays International Banking

As regular readers know, Paul Wharton normally writes this column, but this month I have been asked to do a guest spot interviewing Gibraltar Stock Exchange (GSX) Chairman, Marcus Killick OBE.

Paul Wharton is Head of Corporate Banking at Barclays Wealth & Investment Management in Gibraltar having arrived on the Rock from the UK eight years ago. Paul has over three decades’ experience gained in various roles within Barclays, predominantly in and around London and is passionate about supporting the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) market which he sees as the lifeblood of the Gibraltar economy.

Paul has won several awards for his work in Small Business Enterprise markets and has served on the London Board of the Prince’s Trust.

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I work alongside Paul and have responsibility for our High Value personal clients and business development in this area. This year I was delighted to attend the Gibraltar Day Financial Services Lunch in the wonderful setting of the Guildhall in the centre of the City of London. The event was attended by representatives and business leaders from our own jurisdiction along with a high calibre of professionals based in the City.

As is custom, our Chief Minister, The Honourable Fabian Picardo, addressed the audience and was quite rightly very positive and proud of our Rock, reporting an increase of over 10% in Gibraltar’s GDP, a ‘double digit growth unseen elsewhere in Europe’ He stated that Gross Public Debt is now £70m lower than when his Government was elected and cash reserves where just shy of £100m.

This is against a back drop of ‘continued increased employment and turnover in the online gaming and financial services industries, as well as the increased levels of construction.’

Following this address I got thinking about some of the other new and exciting opportunities arriving in Gibraltar, such as the prestigious World Trade Centre (but maybe that’s for another edi-

“

tion), and the launch of Gibraltar’s first regulated Stock Exchange.

The Stock Exchange launched on 3rd November this year following two years of planning.

I had the opportunity to sit down with the Gibraltar Stock Exchange (GSX) Chairman, Marcus Killick OBE to understand more about this new European Exchange and to learn a little about the man behind it.

As mentioned, there has been two years of hard work, research and promotion of the GSX prior to its launch, and research showed a distinct market for a new Stock Exchange in a reputable European jurisdiction, particularly from areas such as Asia and the USA. GSX are pursuing a layered launch approach and in the initial phase it has invited firms to apply for membership for the listing of open ended collective investment schemes.

The unique selling point that the Exchange has is the speed to market with which a number of other jurisdictions can not compete.

GSX also has the advantage of being in a jurisdiction where senior Government Ministers such as the Chief Minister and Minister with Responsibility for Financial Services, have a deep knowledge of the financial services market

and this positions them well to adapt quickly to any changes that European directives or the financial market may impose.

The GSX is state of the art in terms of its regulatory, supervisory, and forward looking approach which will allow it to remain new, fresh and current and, in time, build on the success of phase one to grow to a fully trading exchange.

Marcus says he was delighted to be asked to act as the GSX Chairman and he has immense confidence in his Board and his MD Nick Cowan, who himself has 30 years of investment industry experience.

So Marcus how did the English barrister, and Member of the New York State Bar (and numerous other achievements you would probably be embarrassed for us to list!) end up in Gibraltar…

Financial Times job page, printed on a Thursday. I had previously been working in the Cayman Islands and then returned to the UK to work as a consultant in the Financial Services industry, primarily advising smaller international financial centres, when my predecessor from Gibraltar contacted me and asked me if I

In accordance with my contract I took a sabbatical (although my friend termed it as rehab from working as a regulator) with grand plans of improving my fitness and learning a language, neither of which I have achieved

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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business finance

Gibraltar Stock Exchange (GSX) Chairman, Marcus Killick OBE

would be interested in the role of Commissioner of the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission, and if so, the advert would be in Thursday’s FT. At the time the position was by appointment of the UK Foreign Secretary and I was interviewed by a 10 person panel.

I had my tenure renewed three times until I left in February this year. My successor will have a very enjoyable but challenging role and she has a great team to support her. I have made Gibraltar my home and now have Gibraltar Civil Status.

Having come to Gibraltar at age 39 and serving 11 years as the Regulator I felt the time was right to leave. In accordance with my contract I took a sabbatical (although my friend termed it as rehab from working as a regulator) with grand plans of improving my fitness and learning a language, neither of which I have achieved, but at least I have a longer walk to the office these days!

My main role now is as CEO

of ISOLAS, a position that I was honoured to be offered as it is a great organisation to work for with a great reputation.

I was equally delighted to be approached for the position of the Chairman of the GSX and the Government approached me to be a Board member of the Gibraltar International Bank.

After 11 years of advocating good corporate governance, I do limit my non-executive positions to ensure I can give them the proper attention and I enjoy the interaction and different skill sets that the roles demand of me as each has a different business and model and it is fun although

What achievement are you most pleased with?

My time at the FSC. I believe I have left it in much better shape that when I arrived and I am very pleased with the way it has grown and I have been able to develop and promote individuals within.

And your achievements there also led to you receiving the OBE in the New Year’s Honours list. How was meeting the Queen?

My eldest son tells me it is my 21 seconds of fame, because that’s how long it took!

I was very honoured to receive the award but it was quite humbling watching the military honours... they have gone above and beyond, whereas I was just doing my job

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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“

challenging.

There were people there from different walks of life and we were all incredibly nervous. As one would expect, it was a very well organised event. Initially we were taken off into different rooms to be told the etiquette and the order of the proceedings. For example, you have to address the Queen as Your Majesty initially and then Mam. Inevitably I got it the wrong way round, but at least I didn’t fall over when I walked away backwards.

During my 21 seconds the Queen mainly asked me about Gibraltar.

You are permitted to take guests and therefore all my children were able to attend. I have a DVD of the investiture and, when you arrive, you are asked to point out your family and the DVD captures them as well as you. Windsor Castle is spectacular.

I was very honoured to receive the award but it was quite humbling watching the military honours, they read out a citation on why they were receiving their awards and they have gone above

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humbling watching the military honours, they read out a citation on why they were receiving their awards and they have gone above and beyond, whereas I was just doing my job.

Have you any personal or professional ambitions yet to fulfill?

No! I still feel I can contribute positively in my professional life but I don’t have any further mountains to climb, those that I have not been able to scale, I am unable to do, obviously my ambition to play for Chelsea lurks in the background, but I don’t think that is going to happen.

Now I want to grow old gracefully but not necessarily quietly.

is full of suits of different sizes, I keep meaning to exercise (you remember my plans of exercising during my sabbatical) and I find the shirt collar restrictive and uncomfortable given my fluctuating sizes. Okay, maybe I do have one ambition left, to fit the smaller sized suits again.

What was your first car?

My mum’s old mini, I had it when I was university and wrote it off on Putney Bridge in London.

There were no injuries other than to my pride!

What was the first record you ever bought?

ELO – Mr Blue Sky, the blue vinyl edition, I had it for a long time (and still have it somewhere) before I realised it was scratched, I thought the start was supposed to sound like that!

What is the best piece of advice you have been given and who gave it to you?

A friend of mine,who was going through a divorce said “If you Share one random fact about are going through hell keep walk- yourself ing — you will come out the other I collect old maps. I know, side, you don’t give up.” It tends boring! to work as a general philosophy.

Well that’s it for this month, What’s your least favourite next month Paul will be back with part of your role? another of Gibraltar‘s movers and Wearing a suit! My wardrobe shakers. n

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

24/11/2014 12:47

key moves

Ramparts Expands Aaron Carpenter joined Gibraltar’s Ramparts European law firm in October 2014 as a Senior Associate Lawyer.

Ramparts specialises in the e-commerce, gaming, finance, payments and technology sectors with particular expertise in cross-border legal and transaction management. With clients including individual entrepreneurs, early stage innovation companies and publicly listed multi-nationals Aaron, who was admitted as a Solicitor of England and Wales in 2006 and has just relocated to Gibraltar, will take advantage of his recent roles as Head of Legal Services at Gocompare.com (one of the largest and best known price comparison websites) and Corporate Solicitor at Everett Tomlin Lloyd & Pratt Solicitors — a law firm established over 200 years ago — in his new position at the Gibraltar law firm.

Peter Howitt, Founder and Director of Ramparts, said: “We are pleased to welcome Aaron to the firm. Aaron’s experience, personality and drive make him a valuable addition to the team during an exciting period of expansion and it significantly enhances our e-commerce, intellectual property and technology capability. I look forward to introducing him to our clients over the next few months.”

Aaron Carpenter, stated “I decided to join Ramparts because Peter and his team understand that clients require practical, commercially astute solutions rather than just legal opinion. Having recently moved from an in-house position with Gocompare.com I understand how essential this understanding is and hope that my experience in the media, technology, and Intellectual Property space can contribute to the continuing success of the team. Additionally, I believe that Gibraltar is

Ramparts’ new recruit: Senior Associate Lawyer Aaron Carpenter

a major international hub for not only online and success. I should also admit that my decigaming but e-commerce in general and I look sion was made easier by the excellent weather, forward to being part of its continued growth food and beaches that are on offer here!” n

Ramparts: no assumptions, just solutions T: +350 200 68450 E: info@ramparts.eu www.ramparts.eu

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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NIGEL FEETHAM Much to Admire in Ghengis Khan

words | Peter Schirmer

Multi-millionaire Alan Sugar of ‘You’re fired’ fame is said to envy Genghis Khan’s ruthlessness, but — other than in Putin’s Russia or Kim’s North Korea — there can be few other professional men or women likely to advocate the bloodthirsty founder of the Mongol empire as a role model in the sphere of business and finance... except local lawyer Nigel Feetham.

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

23/11/2014 11:34

business strategy Writing in the current issue of Captive Review Feetham, a senior partner in Hassans international law firm and visiting professor of law at Nottingham Trent University, does just that — though his admiration of Genghis stems not from the ruthlessness admired by Sugar but from a string of other characteristics.

However, his unorthodox view of ‘the scourge of Christendom’ will not raise more than a modest eyebrow among his friends. For, out of office hours, when Nigel is not tapping serious legal reference works onto the key-pad of his mobile phone [his ever-present iPad is solely an encyclopaedic reference source, he explains] the workaholic’s agile brain is toying with history, semantics, our global preoccupation with electronic gadgetry... and even the sorry state of Gibraltar, and world, politics.

It’s all approached with an impish wit tinged with cynicism, and the string of essays and articles his mental meanderings give rise to delight for the editors of serious journals — who are always on the lookout for new perspectives or light relief to spice what many regard as stodge. [In my spell as Editor of Gibraltar International Finance, spirits soared when articles

by Chris Pitaluga of Abacus or Peter Rodney — powerful proponent of the Campaign for Better English — flashed onto my PC screen.]

Nevertheless, is Genghis Khan not a step too far? I suggest.

“Not at all. Aside from a passion for history, I also often examine historical data to see if it provides a perspective for business strategy.

I am especially interested in the why, rather than the when and how. And Genghis Khan ticks a lot of boxes.”

Feetham adds that his “greatest fascination” always has been with historical figures and nations that “explode on the world scene, often from relative obscurity, unleashing a sequence of events with profound historical impact”.

And though he admits there were several such examples — the Macedonian hegemony established by Alexander the Great and his father Philip in the ancient world is one — the emergence of Mongol supremacy in the 13th Century to establish ‘the largest contiguous empire the world has ever seen’ is a historical watershed. For the Mongols, he writes, were unlikely world conquerors.

“A nomadic, even backwards people, occupying some of the most inhospitable terrain on earth — the Asian steppes — they had none of the magnificent cities or cultural achievements of any of the ‘world’ powers that preceded them (the Egyptian, Greek and Roman empires). The Mongols had spent much of their nomadic history fighting each other, but by the time Genghis Khan united the various tribes they could count on an organised army 100,000 strong... defeating well-disciplined and often numerically superior armies standing in their path to conquest.”

Although the Mongols had no infantry and their army was a cavalry force who rode small hardy horses native to the steppes their military superiority stemmed from a piece of technology — a bow of wood and bone that had a longer reach than anything in existence at that time — which they used “to rain arrows on enemy formations from a distance and out of harm’s way”, he writes.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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Who Was Genghis Khan?

Genghis Khan (1155 or 1162 – 1227), was born Temüjin in modern-day northern Mongolia. He was the founder and emperor of the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous empire in history after his death.

He came to power by uniting nomadic tribes of northeast Asia. After founding the Mongol Empire and being proclaimed “Genghis Khan” (Great Emperor) he started the Mongol invasions that resulted in the conquest of most of Eurasia. These campaigns were often accompanied by brutal massacres of the civilian populations. By the end of his life, the Mongol Empire occupied a substantial portion of Central Asia and China.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Genghis Khan

“They were fast and agile in the field of battle, able to respond to changing circumstances when necessary... [and] a good system of intelligence provided them with valuable advance information about enemy strength, terrain, food supplies and even local weather.”

Under Genghis and his successors, the

decreed the adoption of the Uyghur script as the Mongol Empire’s writing system. He also practised meritocracy and encouraged religious tolerance in the Mongol Empire — he was personally interested in learning philosophical and moral lessons from other religions.

Genghis Khan also brought the Silk Road under one cohesive political environment. This increased communication and trade from Northeast Asia to Muslim Southwest Asia and Christian Europe, thus expanding the horizons of all three cultural areas.

The exact cause of his death remains a mystery, and is variously attributed to being killed in action against the Western Xia, illness, falling from his horse, or wounds sustained in hunting or battle.

Mongols established an empire stretching from China and parts of India into Persia, the Middle East and Turkey, into Russia, and finally, Eastern Europe. In doing so, “they came up against the great civilisations of their day, the Chinese, Ottoman and Islamic empires; as well as knights from Hungary, Poland and

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Germany... this was at the height of Islamic power and after the Muslim armies had already defeated and pushed the Crusaders out of the Holy Land.

“In fact, the Mongol invasion of Russian territory was the only successful winter invasion in history — succeeding where both Napoleon Bonaparte and Adolf Hitler failed,” he writes. And adds that although they “left devastation and destruction in their wake and at a scale never seen before” the Mongols were pragmatic.

Despite their brutality, historians have noted that the Mongolian empire established trading and communication routes stretching east to west, including the so-called Silk Road famously travelled by Marco Polo in his journey to the magnificent court of Kublai Khan, the grandson of Genghis, under the Pax Mongolica. As goods and people crossed in both directions it became the first world economy and system of communication.

Also noted is the Mongol’s religious tolerance, which in no small measure allowed them to keep the peace over much of their vast conquest, as well as their willingness to incorporate ‘foreign’ knowledge, expertise and technology in the furtherance of their ambitions for empire.

Less well known is that Mongol law (the Great Yasa) is thought to have exempted priests, teachers, doctors and even lawyers from taxation.

Unlike Alexander, however, they were ruthless in their treatment of nobles of the conquered people. The Mongols proved they

were not just marauding tribesmen. They were intent on keeping the lands they had conquered and did so for over a century.

However, the Mongols were not always victorious — their invasion of Vietnam failed; in Japan much of their invasion fleet was destroyed by bad weather; and against Egypt they suffered their first major defeat when a well-organised Mameluke army employed similar tactics to their own.

“Fortunately for them, when they considered they could not usefully or successfully expand their empire any further, the Mongols simply turned back and consolidated what they had previously conquered.

“Is there any useful perspective that can be derived from this historical record?” Feetham asks (adding “It is certainly not that the Mongols exempted lawyers from taxation” in a wry aside). But “the following can serve as an explanation for this success translated into

Also noted is the Mongol’s religious tolerance, which in no small measure allowed them to keep the peace over much of their vast conquest

a business context: • Organisation: No business can ever be successful without organisation.

• Agility: The ability to respond quickly to market changes.

• Technology: All businesses must keep abreast of technological developments.

Sometimes simple technology (e.g. an increase in speed and accuracy) can provide a significant competitive advantage.

• Intelligence: Understanding what the competition is doing is vital.

• Talent: A willingness to learn from others and recruit externally where the required skill is not available within the organisation.

• Ambition: All market-leading businesses must have that burning ambition to grow market share, expand into new products or areas and be better than their competitors.

• Adaptability: The business must be able to adapt and be ready for unforeseen scenarios.

• Strategy: Subject to adaptability, devise a winning strategy and stay within the area of competence. If the firm suffers failure from particular markets, shed the loss-making operations and confine the business to what is successful.”

To this list the “less endearing aspect, a certain corporate ruthlessness”, can be added Feetham tells me. “Even with all this, we would still be missing the most significant ingredient of all — quality of leadership, something which, unfortunately, cannot easily be emulated. Without this, no enterprise will ever become a market leader.” n

Baffled by Bitcoin? Confused by Crypto?

KPMG and Hassans ‘decrypt the myths’ KPMG Gibraltar has partnered with Hassans to host an enlightening afternoon of panels and speeches from global experts in the digital currencies space at the Cryptocurrency Seminar on 4th December aboard Sunborn Yacht Hotel.

Micky Swindale (KPMG) with Albert Agius and Anthony Provasoli of Hassans at a recent conference on cryptocurrencies

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Attendees will be welcomed by KPMG’s Managing Director, Micky Swindale, who will hand over to the Minister for Financial Services and eGaming, Albert Isola, to open the event.

Acting as an introduction to the vast potential of this exciting and often-misunderstood technology, a series of quick-fire presentations will provide first-hand insight into topics as diverse as the marriage between crypto and online gaming, bridging digital currencies to traditional payments systems and rendering crypto-transactions and storage secure and compliant.

The seminar will then explore the broader issues pertinent to the sector such as the global regulatory landscape, and panelists will doubtless debate the potential for a regulatory framework for Gibraltar.

Proceedings will be chaired and attended throughout the afternoon by some of the industry’s most renowned proponents, including representatives from both key and ancillary stakeholders as well as the private and public sectors.

The event is set to be the first of its kind in Gibraltar, and represents the local business community’s first step in cutting through the complexity of a globally transformative market. n

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

23/11/2014 11:34

Xerox Smart Print Event

The Image Graphics Xerox Smart Print Event took place aboard the Sunborn in November.

Professionals from the private and public sectors were invited for presentations and to view the latest Xerox print technology.

Photo left: The Chief Minister, the Hon. Fabian Picardo with Mohamed Mounir, Regional Head of Marketing & MPS (Managed Print Services) Strategy Deployment, Xerox.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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Annual Performance Reviews

?

What’s the Point

Q We are considering having an annual end of year performance review but I’m not really convinced of the benefits. It seems a lot of work and I’m not sure if the result will be worth it.

A Around this time of year a lot of organisations carry out their annual appraisals or performance reviews and these meetings support developing your talent and retaining talent — vital because; • It reduces turnover and keeps recruiting costs low.

• Having high performers means you can respond faster to opportunities and threats.

• Customer service is always better from companies who have highly motivated staff.

In other words having motivated and talented people in your organisation will boost your company’s overall performance so it is worth your business’s time to identify and develop the people who work for you using some form of appraisal or performance review process at regular intervals.

As with most things there are ways of approaching tasks that will make them more effective, so one of the first ways appraisals will help is to identify your star performers.

Generally they are your top 15% of employees, they regularly go beyond your expectations and produce excellent results.

You may feel they require little management however you need to appreciate this group and allow them to shine whenever possible.

Use your meetings to share your company’s objectives with them and make sure you acknowledge their contribution and value to the company. Compensate them fairly based on what they bring to the company. Avoid giving them mundane tasks and provide

The HR Dept.

Tel: +350 5403 5987 Email: hradvice@thehrdept.gi Website: www.thehrdept.gi

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 17:06

human resources interesting challenging work that stimulates them. Discover what motivates your star performers and try to keep them engaged to stop them from going elsewhere. If your star performers are working with poor performers, remember they will soon get fed up with picking up the slack. Discover who your 15% star performers are through regular appraisal meetings and include the following plans in your appraisal process.

ers. With this group you need to identify if they have gaps in their skills or knowledge in order to increase their performance and productivity. Try to give them tasks that stretch them and perfect their existing skills and don’t accept anything less from them than a good standard. Look for areas where their skills can be best utilised and include the following in your appraisal process:

star performers.

Deadwood (Poor Performers) No one wants to be in the bottom 10% of the organisation’s workforce, however these employees exist in most organisations.

What you need to do is deal with them straight away. Find out why they are in the bottom 10% then fix the problem. If you enable them to improve their skills and competencies you may find that performance issues are resolved.

If not, they may not be in the right role so consider if there are other areas in the company they may do better. You want to be in a position where these employees contribute to the success of the organisation. So include the following in your appraisal process:

• Identify performance goals that • Focus on compensating these raise the bar higher each year. people to ensure they are fairly • Consider how you can expand paid. their roles to fully engage and • Begin to think of projects, tasks, grow their potential. promotion opportunities etc. in • Confirm career paths and make the near future. sure these people are in the • Make sure there is a clear path right role for their skills. for advancement and this is • Help these employees increase communicated. their value to the company by • Consider mentoring your star motivating them and providing • Implement an improvement performers and developing the tools for them to become plan with specific goals and their talent through training.

Next, who are the backbone of your company, usually considered as the middle 75%. Without their steady effort your company may not survive so they are vital to your company. Therefore don’t ignore these people and focus all your attention on the star perform-

Some individuals shine naturally and others require a little hands on management.

Some employees will only perform what is asked of them while others are willing to extend themselves

schedule.

• Clearly communicate your expectations.

• Give employees the opportunity to improve their skills and give them the resources they need to meet their goals.

• Check progress regularly and if there is little progress consider other roles.

• No improvement? Don’t allow poor performers to carry on missing targets and letting others pick up the slack. Cut your losses and part company.

Some individuals shine naturally and others require a little hands on management. Some employees will only perform what is asked of them while others are willing to extend themselves. Appraisals or performance reviews are a means to evaluate your people and drive them to achieve meaningful results. If your appraisal or performance review is not serving these purposes then it is time for a review of your process. n The HR Dept. can help design performance management systems that align with your business needs.

For further information or advice contact email: hradvice@thehrdept.gi.

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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key roles

Senior & Graduate Appointments for KPMG KPMG has announced a raft of senior appointments to its Gibraltar offices. Monika Samtani has been appointed to the role of Senior Manager in the firm’s audit department. Leon Gordon has been appointed Manager in Audit and Advisory, and Salvador Mestre Bosca joins as Manager within the same department.

Leon Gordon and Monika Samtani

Monika Samtani graduated from the London School of Economics and moved back to Gibraltar to work for a Top 10 firm, where she qualified in 2008. In early 2009, she joined KPMG Gibraltar to help develop the audit and advisory practice as one of the first employees at the firm. As a senior associate, Monika quickly grew a strong client base, providing audit and advisory services to Gibraltar regulated entities, and was promoted to Audit Manager in October 2010.

Since promotion, she has been instrumental in overseeing training and recruitment for the Gibraltar office, which now comprises over 20 professional services staff. Over the last four years, Monika’s focus has been on the non-life insurance and eGaming sectors.

Commenting on her appointment, Senior Manager Monika Samtani said: “Since I first joined KPMG’s Gibraltar offices four years ago, our team has gone from strength to strength. We have grown significantly in terms of numbers and structure, both of which have reinforced our position in the Gibraltar market.”

Leon Gordon trained with PWC London (banking and capital markets), where he developed expertise in audit and accountancy,

focused on the financial services sector. Post qualification, Leon joined a boutique mergers and acquisitions advisory firm working on a number of projects ranging across due diligence, valuations and investment appraisals. In September 2013, he returned to Gibraltar and joined KPMG Gibraltar as an Audit and Advisory Supervisor.

Since then, Leon has supervised a number of financial advisory projects from the acquisition due diligence of the Gibraltar casino to business valuations and financial modelling projects. His expertise in financial services sector audit has also seen him supervise and manage Gibraltar regulated entities, including banks, trust and company providers and funds. As Audit and Advisory Manager he will continue to develop client relationships and oversee the growth of the Audit and Advisory practice of KPMG Gibraltar.

and a Master’s degree in Business Management and Administration before qualifying as an auditor with the Registro de Economistas Auditores of Spain in 2006. Salvador began his career with EY Valencia before moving to the firm’s Madrid office in 2009. During his term in Madrid, Salvador was also seconded to EY’s London office for three months, and to its Dublin office for an additional month.

Salvador moved to Guernsey in 2014. His appointment at KPMG Gibraltar will see Salvador undertake a mixed portfolio which includes management of funds and insurance companies. A keen athlete, Salvador looks forward to improving his skills in cycling and triathlon.

velop their professional skills and experience and provide the strongest foundation for their careers.

Christos Stylianou graduated from Newcastle University in 2014 with a BA (Hons.) in Accounting and Finance. Christos was elected Vice President of the Newcastle University Business School Board of Students and President of the Oikos-Society Newcastle Chapter, which deals with green economies, development and sustainability.

Christos also served as Lance Corporal in the Greek-Cypriot Army.

Dominic Robinson joins KPMG with a degree in Accounting and Finance from Sheffield University. A keen interest in local politics saw him elected Councillor at the age of 18 and nominated by the community to carry the 2012 London Olympic torch. During his time at university, Dominic became heavily involved in the University of Sheffield Investment Society and took the position as Vice Chairman of the university’s fund portfolio.

Commenting on KPMG Gibraltar’s recent expansion, Managing Director Micky Swindale said: “KPMG takes great pride in the development of every one of our employees, from graduate trainees to senior managers. Each member of our team has proven their skill, tenacity and willingness to undertake their own professional development and will all play a vital role in our team here in Gibraltar.” n

KPMG has also announced the appointment of two graduate starters; Dominic Robinson and Christos Stylianou join the global audit and advisory firm’s Salvador Mestre Bosca studied award-winning graduate intake for a degree in actuarial science programme designed to help de-

“Each member of our team has proven their skill, tenacity and willingness to undertake their own professional development and will all play a vital role in our team here in Gibraltar” Salvador Mestre

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

24/11/2014 15:23

key moves Credit Suisse Hires Senior Relationship Manager in Gibraltar Credit Suisse (Gibraltar) Limited has announced the appointment of Darren Knox as a Senior Relationship Manager as part of its Private Banking Team.

Credit Suisse in Gibraltar has expanded its team with the appointment of Darren Knox as a Senior Relationship Manager. Mr Knox will be responsible for helping to further develop the Swiss bank’s Wealth Management business in Gibraltar.

Mr Knox joins Credit Suisse from Lloyds TSB International’s Private Banking business in Gibraltar, where he spent seven years covering the Ultra High Net Worth segment, building relationships with UK clients. Prior to that, he spent close to 20 years at NatWest, gaining experience in various rela-

tionship management roles.

Mr Knox will focus on further developing Credit Suisse’s Gibraltar and UK resident non-domicile client base, delivering trusted advice that is complemented by superior solutions and all the capabilities of the integrated bank.

“Darren’s appointment compliments the significant experience of our Private Banking Team and will help to grow our Gibraltar based business,” said Kerry Blight, CEO of Credit Suisse (Gibraltar) Ltd. “While we are a truly global bank with expertise across more than 50 locations, our clients equally value the partnership they can build with a relationship manager who understands their local needs.” n

Mr Knox will focus on further developing Credit Suisse’s Gibraltar and UK resident nondomicile client base

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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Darren Knox, Senior Relationship Manager, Credit Suisse (Gibraltar)

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events

Gibraltar: In Good Company Companies House Gibraltar hosted a very successful conference aboard the Sunborn Hotel at Ocean Village for the member states of the European Business Registers (EBR) in November. Representatives of the Business Registers of 28 countries including Germany, France, Holland, UK and all Scandinavian countries attended the conference.

EBR had been tasked in the last few years by the European Commission with developing a feasibility project as to how European Registers could exchange registration information on companies that had a presence in more than one country.

EBR has now successfully established a common electronic platform for the exchange of information amongst its 28 members. The European Commission, building on the experience of EBR, has issued a Directive placing an obligation on European Registers to exchange information and the responsibility to oversee the Directive has been given to the Justice Ministry.

The EU has seen a need for this exchange of information as many companies are incorporated in the

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UK and then establish branches in Germany and there was a lack of information exchange between the two Registries. EU citizens are free to choose any EU country to incorporate their companies irrespective of where they are based after a number of ground-breaking cases decided by the European Courts of Justice.

The Gibraltar conference was the General Assembly of EBR and it was great achievement for Companies House to be given the

responsibility to host the meeting.

It was a highly technical meeting to discuss the requirements of the EU common platform for the exchange of information. Companies House is ahead of the curve in meeting all the needs to communicate with the common platform after a number of years investing in the necessary software and staff training. Two experienced extra staff were engaged by Companies House in the last year, one IT Gibraltarian specialist previously

The Gibraltar conference was the General Assembly of EBR and it was great achievement for Companies House to be given the responsibility to host the meeting

trained by the Germany Company Bosch, and a lawyer.

It was interesting other jurisdictions to meet representatives of East European countries such as Slovenia, Slovakia, Ukraine and Hungary. The delegates greatly enjoyed the conference facilities offered by the Sunborn and the amenities of Ocean Village.

The representatives of the different countries were given a tour of the Rock, which included a visit to St Michaels Cave and the World War II tunnels, and many of them availed themselves of Main Street shopping. For the two days of the conference Gibraltar had bright sunny weather and the representatives of many northern countries left with a very pleasant impression of Gibraltar and its hospitality. n

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

24/11/2014 11:35

finance

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 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JUNE 2014

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Energy Efficiency Awareness Campaign

Save Resources this Christmas without affecting the festivities. Not only do and use lids on pots to prevent heat esyou help the environment but you’ll save caping. money too!! So why not try some of these • Turn down your heater or switch it off out? altogether and wear cosy slippers and jumpers.

• Use LED lights for festive light displays • Limit the time lights are on – wait until instead of incandescent lights. Did you dark to turn on Christmas lights and then know that LED Christmas lights use 90% turn them off before you go to bed. less electricity than regular Christmas • Turn off room lights when the tree is lit. lights?

• Buy gifts that don’t use electricity or bat• Use fibre optic decorations – in most casteries – if you do buy or receive gifts that es they use a single bulb to light the entire require batteries consider purchasing redecoration – now that’s energy smart! chargeable batteries.

• Plan your shopping trips and shop local- • Buying new electronics? Buy A+ rated ly. All those last minute purchases can items. drive you crazy – advanced planning • Leave the car and take a walk to see the saves you money on petrol and can make Christmas lights! the days leading up to Christmas more relaxed.

And on Christmas morning – don’t let all There are many simple ways in which • Cook as efficiently as possible - cook as that wrapping paper and cardboard paper many dishes in the oven at the same time go to waste! Recycle it! n we can all save on resources this Christmas,

In the run up to the Christmas period we often think about what presents we still need to buy, what ingredients we need, how many extra chairs and drinks we have to get and are last year’s Christmas lights still working?... but do we think about the large amount of extra water and energy we use? In cooking, shopping, lighting? What about other resources such as food? The gifts themselves?

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

24/11/2014 15:36

go green

Save Resources this Christmas • • • •

Use LED Christmas lights - save Money & Energy!

Switch off - don’t leave Christmas lights on overnight!

Cook & shop wisely!

Recycle wrapping paper & after party cans & bottles!

Make this Christmas Merry & Green!

Ge

org

e’s Top

Tip s

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24/11/2014 15:37

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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IVAN CRUZ - Gibraltar CAB Improving Lives Brick By Brick Every year, in the run up to Christmas, the Gibraltar Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) identifies how best they can help the community and launches awareness initiatives.

The Gibraltar Magazine spoke to Ivan Cruz, GCAB Deputy Manager, to find out more about the Brick by Brick campaign they have launched this year, building up to the final event held in Casemates Square on Monday, 8th December.

December is usually the month when we spend more time with our families, or if we can’t we at least think of our loved ones more.

Each year the Gibraltar CAB creates a special campaign to help those in our community who may be experiencing hardship at this special time of year.

“Every year in the run up to Christmas, the Gibraltar Citizens Advice Bureau identifies awareness initiatives which, in the past have included Keep out of Debt at Christmas, Tips for a better Christmas and Adopt a Grandparent for Christmas.

“Christmas is the time of year in which we should all reflect as a community on the needs of others especially those who are not with us this Christmas because of an illness,” he emphasises.

This year’s Brick By Brick campaign is designed by Gibraltar CAB to help families with hospital patients who needed to be treated abroad. The burden of treatment, travel and all related costs can leave families in a difficult situation in a short period of time. Ivan explained the catalyst behind CAB Gibraltar’s 2014 campaign: “Well, our Bureau Manager Pili Rodriguez had various unfortunate circumstances where members of her family had to receive treatment abroad this past year. We all joined forces with her as a team since we believe there comes a time when unfortunate circumstances might have any of us going to the UK for treatment and many face financial hardship.

Let’s face it, a long stay in the UK can be very daunting and worrying, aside from the financial and emotional stress that this entails. We know many people face this predicament at some point and it can be overwhelming.

“Unfortunately we have had numerous clients receiving treatment abroad due to illnesses who have contacted the Citizens Advice Bureau seeking assistance due to financial difficulties since they incur unexpected costs.

It is something that affects people of all ages.

Rarely, but unfortunately, it is something that also affects children and their guardians,” regrets Ivan.

Raising awareness is always the first step in improving any situation. “Our aim is to create awareness in every corner of society, such as schools, associations, firms and other entities in our community and to encourage them to

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help others in the form of a donation,” he explains.

It really is an issue we rarely think about until it affects us personally and it is in our nature not to plan for getting sick. How best should we prepare ourselves for the unexpected expenses in our lives in general?

“People save for holidays, for new homes, for refurbishments, for retirement and so on, but never for illnesses. Some people have life or critical illnesses insurance but, more often than not, these things come suddenly and people are not prepared for it.

“At the CAB we have a money advice clinic which could help people budget their income and expenditure,” says Ivan.

What is the advice to people seeking help at the Citizens Advice Bureau?

“In this particular area, there is little that we can advise, hence the reason for this campaign. People who have an illness and are already facing financial difficulties because of it are interviewed by Robert Balban or a member of the Gibraltar Community Association and are given the necessary help needed.

“This can be a terrible stress at a very vulnerable time in each individual’s own lives.

Some people need a helping hand and Citizens Advice Bureau together with the Gibraltar Community Association and the Calpe House trust are willing to offer that little bit of extra help to relieve the extra financial stress some endure. As a Citizens Advice Bureau we believe that raising awareness of these issues will ultimately benefit all,” he reveals.

What other sorts of problems do people approach the CAB with in Gibraltar?

“Problems come in all shapes and sizes, what might be a problem for you might not be a problem for me. All advisers at the Gibraltar CAB are willing to offer the necessary

“

A perfect world would be ideal, however the real world brings a whole load of problems and issues that can affect an individual, a group or a community

time to anyone coming through our doors with any particular issue or problem.

“Raising awareness on the Equal Opportunities Act 2006 by offering training, conferences and information has definitely seen a rise in numbers when it comes to Discrimination in Employment cases.

“If I were to go by statistics since we were established in 2003, I would say that employment issues together with separation and divorce issues are definitely the most common problem brought to the Gibraltar CAB,” states Ivan.

Many problems presented to the CAB are issues that may affect us all at some point in our lives. The problems surrounding getting sick and receiving treatment abroad is certainly one of these, and CAB hopes this campaign will be a first step towards a solution.

“Definitely, any help offered to anyone in need is a step in the right direction. We are very fortunate to be able to receive any treatment for free here in Gibraltar, however it’s only logical that anyone receiving treatment abroad incurs expenses especially if they have bills or debts to pay here in Gibraltar too.

“Therefore any donations offered to improve their lives whilst ill is considered a step in the right direction although not a permanent solution,” he adds.

Beyond this campaign what is the future for Gibraltar’s CAB? “A perfect world would be ideal, however the realistic world brings a whole load of problems and issues that can affect an individual, a group or a community,” he says. “I would therefore like to see an extension to the services offered by the Gibraltar CAB including mediation services as an alternative dispute resolution and financial capability services to avoid people getting into extreme debt,” Ivan wishes for the New Year.

Should you wish to make a donation towards the Improving Lives Brick by Brick campaign please contact Ivan or anyone at the Gibraltar Citizens Advice Bureau. Alternatively find them at Casemates Square on Monday 8th December from 9.30am.

Here’s to a problem free Festive Season! n To contact CAB you can visit their office at 10 Governor’s Lane, send them an email at info@cab.gi, or call 200 40006.

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Bling is in...

It’s official —bling is in this Christmas. If it is diamante encrusted, silver and sparkly it is the trend for Christmas 2014, as are frosted trees and snow white lights.

Christmas has always had a bit of bling but this year has taken it to a new level. Think of the Ice Queen’s palace and you have the right idea. Trees are covered in wintry frost and decor brings a cool sparkle to modern interiors.

Perhaps inspired by the true white light now available as super economical LED fairy lights, rather than the warm yellow of incandescent bulbs, the trend will allow you to express an obsession with all things shiny and fulfill fantasies of a truly dazzling home.

If you don’t want to chuck out all last year’s coloured baubles, simply spray them silver and get

Savills (Gibraltar) Ltd, Suite 1B Icom House, 1/5 Irish Town, Gibraltar

Tel: 20066633 email: sales@savills.gi www.savills.gi

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Trees are covered in wintry frost and decor brings a cool sparkle to modern interiors some spray frosting for your tree.

Carry the look through to your dining table with silver chargers and diamante tealight holders.

Loop silver ribbon around wreaths and sprinkle silver sparkles on your table like snow.

Spray fir cones then spread with glue and roll in glitter for instant bling for trees and table centres.

However hot the weather in Gibraltar, have a white old Christmas time. n

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Normal wear and tear is a fact of life with rental properties, just as it would be at home

Managing Tenant Deposits...

Properly (Part 3) In my August and October articles, I explained how tenant deposits should be dealt with at the end of a residential tenancy. I commented upon Gibraltar’s estate agency sector which is unregulated, meaning that tenants often have to rely on the mercy of their agent’s morality, professionalism and experience when it comes to the return of their deposit.

According to the UK’s Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (“AIIC”), landlords are still pushing for ‘betterment’, or ‘new for old’ at the end of tenancies and many have unrealistic expectations of what they can claim against tenant deposits. Whilst the tenant has a duty of care to return the property in the same condition at the end of the tenancy as found at the start (allowing for wear &

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tear) as listed on the inventory deposit. report, the law does not allow The AIIC state that many agents landlords to claim ‘betterment’ and landlords are seemingly unor ‘new for old’ from the tenant’s aware of the ‘betterment principle’

If a carpet was badly stained at the time of check-in a landlord can’t expect the tenant to pay for cleaning at the check-out

(see my August 2014 article) which means that if an item was old or worn at check-in, and after a two year tenancy there is some additional damage, the law will not allow a landlord to simply replace this item with a new one. Instead, some sort of compensation is allowable. The betterment principle applies to cleaning issues as well.

If a carpet was badly stained at the time of check-in a landlord can’t

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property

expect the tenant to pay for cleaning at the check-out, no matter how long the tenancy has been.

Often landlords will not bother to read the check in inventory (even if one is prepared, which even today, is not always the case in Gibraltar from our research) which will properly detail the condition.

Normal wear and tear is a fact of life with rental properties, just as it would be at home. The best

way landlords can ensure that the property’s condition is fully recorded is by having a comprehensive inventory in place at the start of any new tenancy, and that a thorough check-in and checkout report is completed. This is what members of the AIIC offer in the UK. In Gibraltar, landlords and tenants rely on their letting agent to assess fair wear and tear and to have the knowledge and experience to take into account all factors before making their recommendations.

Wear and tear is subjective and there are endless examples. At Chesterton, we have some internal guidelines. For example, if there has been a water stain to the ceiling, our property manager will try and ascertain the source of the problem. If the problem was reported in a timely manner by the tenant then the issue is landlord’s maintenance. If however, the tenant failed to report the problem and damage has increased over time then the landlord’s repair cost will be unnecessarily high.

In this case the tenant will incur contributory costs.

As another example, rubs and marks to décor are quite common.

In such cases, we must determine if the marks are excessive. The landlord should anticipate the need to re-paint at a period between 3 to 5 years through normal use. Whilst marks and rubs are to be expected, they should be typical for the original condition and length of tenancy. Wear & tear to décor in hallways, kitchens and stairways is inevitably higher than other parts of the property.

According to research from the UK’s Tenancy Deposit Scheme, issues surrounding redecoration are some of the most common causes

of disputes between tenants, landlords and letting agents. The organisation’s annual survey found redecoration accounts for 30% of disagreements, which comes in behind only damage to property (43%) and cleaning (56%).

Pat Barber, the chair of the AIIC, has noted that assessing damage to a property’s walls in particular, is an area in which a letting agent’s assessment of wear and tear may differ to a tenant’s.

“As in all things, common sense must prevail. A few light scuffs after six months is definitely wear and tear. However, heavy markings, scrapes, several additional screw holes during the same length of time, will be classed as tenant damage. The longer the tenancy, the more allowance must be made for wear and tear,” she stated.

However, she warned that any nail holes, screw holes, blue tack marks, sellotape, grease marks and drilled holes should not be considered wear and tear and money can be deducted from a tenant’s deposit to account for repairing these problems.

As a general rule, when it comes to actual items included in the

tenancy, we have to consider the original age, quality and condition of each item at the commencement of the tenancy, average useful lifespan to value ratio (depreciation) of the item, reasonable expected usage of such an item, the number and type of occupants in the property, and the length of the tenancy.

Does the law help? No, not hugely. The House of Lords defined ‘fair wear and tear’ as “Reasonable use of the premises by the tenant and the ordinary operation of natural forces”.

Gibraltar does not have any low cost adjudication process established for tenant deposit disputes. So the advice remains the same, whether you are a landlord or a tenant, insist on a thorough check-in and check-out process, with a full inventory, and then use a letting agent you can trust to administer this process properly, fairly and professionally.

Finally, I would like to wish all readers of my property column a very happy Christmas. Thank you for reading each month and if you are a tenant hosting Christmas dinner, try to avoid red wine spillages on your landlord’s carpet. That’s not wear and tear. 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.

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Property Services

New Chairperson for the Gibraltar Heritage Trust The Board of Trustees of the Gibraltar Heritage Trust last night voted in a new Chairperson who will serve the Trust for the next two years.

Delilah Smith, who has been a Trustee on the Board since 2010,

was last night voted in and will replace Dr Keith Farrell who stepped down after completing his two year tenure as Chairman.

Dr Farrell will remain on the Board of Trustees of the Gibraltar Heritage Trust as a Trustee. n

Laguna Youth Club Bike-a-thon in aid of GBC Open Day In conjunction with the Royal Gibraltar Police, young members of the Laguna Youth Club are raising money for GBC Open Day by organising an 84 kilometre BIKE-A-THON on Saturday 6th December from 10.30am – 2.30pm.

The event will be held at Laguna Youth Club with food and a bouncy castle on offer for all residents in the community. Local residents are asked to lend their support by sponsoring the young people of Laguna Youth Club for this worthy

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cause! For any further information please contact Caroline Dixon on 200 41948 or email caroline.dixon. gys@gibtelecom.net n

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ANDREA SIMPSON a return to the limelight Andrea Simpson, or Martin as she was known professionally before her marriage to Charles Simpson, is Gibraltar’s most famous opera singer. She also has a penchant for singing the best of popular music which introduces her to a wider audience in particular the under 25s. In the most recent Miss Gibraltar competition she sang a medley of Albert Hammond songs squeezing 12 songs in 12 minutes.

Andrea is also one of Catalan Bay’s most famous daughters as her mother and grandmother, are members of the Bonfiglio family.

Indeed her singing was inspired by their voices which she listened to throughout her childhood. When she was aged four she used to delight the Caletenos by singing on her way to and from St Peter’s school. Her first public performance was aged nine in the John Mackintosh Hall in the Miss Fantasy Youth Princess organised by Robert Balban, Lawrence Robles, uncle of the present Miss Gibraltar, Pepe and Eric Ocana, and Alfred Rumbo.

She attended West Side school where Joe Pratts was head of music and realised her potential when he first heard her sing. He said “In all my teaching career I have never come across such a wonderful natural singer”.

Andrea sang in public for the second time again at the John Mackintosh Hall. Gibraltar

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Broadcasting Corporation staff heard her and invited her to take part in the GBC Open Day which led to appearances on local radio and television. Edward Viotto in 1993 invited her to sing at the Miss Gibraltar show. In later years Gibraltar Broadcasting invited her to sing at the Miss Gibraltar shows from 1996 to 1999.

She has sung at more Miss Gibraltar shows than any other singer.

Whilst she was at school Karel Chichon, after completing his organ scholarship, returned to Gibraltar and joined Westside as an assistant teacher. He wanted to mark his return by organising a concert of classical music. A female vocalist was needed and he swiftly appreciated that Andrea possessed the voice he needed. She had never sung classical music before but she was a quick learner and so he taught her. The two songs sung were Habanera from Bizet’s Carmen and Mozart’s Laudate Dominum. Her

Age 11

debut into classical music was a triumph.

The required academic grades enabled her to be awarded a Gibraltar Government scholarship to study at Bath Spa University College where Keith Bennet was Head of the Music Department. He said, “Her natural talent is surreal, but the beauty of it is that she is not even aware of it”. Canterbury University also offered her a place but she preferred the musical syllabus at Bath Spa where she had an unconditional offer. There was also the attraction of being coached by the legendary Margaret Thomas who also taught at the Birmingham Conservatoire. Her time at Bath was enjoyed to the full and she left in 1999 with a 2.1 BA Hons Music.

More study was needed and she had planned to go to London but Margaret Thomas persuaded her to go on a one year post graduate course at the Birmingham Conservatoire.

Singing at the Miss Gibraltar show 2002

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Wedding day

A year later Andrea left with a post graduate diploma in performance.

Once again, Karel Chichon crossed paths with Andrea’s musical career and, convinced of her huge talent when she sang in his two classical music concerts, wanted her to take it further into a new country. In New York State he had a connection with Carmela Altamura who was both a classical singer and a philanthropist.

The Altamura School for the Fine and Performing Arts was founded in 1970 by Carmela Bucceri, a soprano, and her husband Leonard Altamura. Many of the students were given bursaries to enable them to take up residence in New York City. In 1986 it became the Inter Cities Performing Arts Inc. Carmela Bucceri left Sicily, aged 8, to join her family in New York where her precocious musical talent ensured that she was awarded scholarships to take her from primary school to graduate from the Guiseppe Verdi Conservatory in Milan. She began her musical career in Milan’s Teatro del Filodrammatici followed by the majority of the world’s major concert halls including Carnegie Hall. After retiring she concentrated on teaching talented students at the Altamura School.

Karel invited Carmela to Gibraltar where she was introduced to Andrea and heard her sing.

Carmela and Karel persuaded the Gibraltar Government to award Andrea a scholarship to join Carmela’s school for two years.

The highlight of the course was when, in the month of August, Carmela organised Encounters with Music to which she invited her friends to give one-to-one tuition to her most gifted students.

Thus it was that Andrea spent considerable time learning from Licia Albanese, the late Jerome Hines, Virginia Zeani and Giulietta Simionato.

For those readers who are not au fait with these names from the world of opera here are some words about each of these singers.

Licia Albanese, born in 1913, is an Italian born American soprano noted for her albums of the lyrics of Verdi and Puccini. She was a leading artist with the Metropolitan Opera of New York from 1940 to1966. She became an American citizen in 1945. President Bill Clinton in 1995 presented her with the National Medal of Honor for the Arts. In 2000 she received the Handel Medallion, the highest official honour given by the Mayor of New York, Rudolf Giuliani, for her contribution to the city’s cultural life.

Jerome Hines died in 2003 and was an American bass who performed at the Metropolitan Opera from 1946 to 1987. He was six feet six inches and his stage presence coupled with his stentorian voice made him ideal for such roles as Sarastro in The Magic Flute, Mephistopheles in Faust, the Grand Inquisitor in Don Carlos, King Mark in Tristan und Isolde and the title role in Boris Godunov. Jerome turned to coaching later in his career and founded the Opera-Music Institute of New Jersey in 1987.

Giulietta Simionato died in 2010 a week before her 100th birthday. She was an Italian mezzo-soprano and had a large repertory including Rossini’s Rosina and Cinderella, Charlotte in Jules Massenet’s Werther, Azucena in Ill Trovatore and as Santuzza in Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana. She was a prolific recording artist and Fono has put together the best of her recordings on a CD The Colour of a Voice.

Virginia Zeani is a Romanian coloratura soprano and is regarded as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century. The Venetian Arts Society named her one of the most vocally

Andrea’s love for singing comes from very deep within and even though she juggles a young family and her music, she finds the time to get back on stage

Andrea Simpson at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in November

and artistically gifted of the Grand Divas of the Golden Age and a superstar in the history of opera. She is one of the greatest interpreters of the role of Violetta Valery (Verdi’s La Traviata) and has given the greatest number of performances in this role — an amazing 648. She was also one of the first sopranos in the world to sing all three principal soprano roles of The Tales of Hoffman in a single performance and the first one to do so in the history of la Scala.

After retiring from the stage in 1980 she began teaching singing and in 2010, having taught for 30 years, the magazine The Classical Singer named her Teacher of the Year.

The course ended in April 2003 and with teachers like that it is no wonder Andrea is able to sing with such perfection and voice control.

Andrea returned to Europe and in October Singing with the Gibraltar Symphonic Orchestra 1995

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interview | Mike Brufal

joined the group Abbamania which toured Europe culminating in London’s West End. When this job finished she looked up suitable roles in The Stage magazine and enjoyed six months of touring to Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

On her return to Gibraltar she was given important singing roles on Gibraltar Day in the Guildhall, the event in Minley Manor marking the close association between Gibraltar and the Gibraltar Barracks and other similar events.

She also won an open singing competition in La Linea where politics did not rear its ugly head and the best voice won.

Her career went on hold in 2004 when she met Charles Simpson, a lawyer working for Triay and Triay, and they were married in 2006. Her young family is now of an age when she can return to her profession and so she is

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making a gradual return to full time singing.

She sings with the King’s Chapel Singers who raise considerable sums of money for charity.

This year she sang at the Miss Gibraltar competition and then at a charity concert in the Anglican cathedral.

Andrea’s love for singing comes from very deep within and even though she juggles a young family and her music, she finds the time to get back on stage because, as she has expressed on many occasions, “When I am on a stage, I am at home” Gibraltar very much looks forward to seeing Andrea “at home” again. If you would like to hear Andrea Simpson sing, catch her with the King’s Chapel Singers on Tuesday 16th December at the Holy Trinity Cathedral from 7.30pm. n

Andrea’s mother Maria Jesus Martin (nee Bonfiglio) on stage in the late 1950s

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Gibraltar Literary Festival

Neanderthal Rock Engraving

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Ice Age Europe is striving to promote one of the most amazing periods in early human history from education and tourist perspectives. Gibraltar is one of the key sites of world cultural heritage and of human development in Neanderthal history. The Gibraltar Magazine spoke to Stewart Finlayson, Deputy Director of The Gibraltar Museum, about Gibraltar’s role in this European network of Heritage Sites.

Photo by: Stewart Finlayson

Ice Age Europe GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE MAGAZINE •• DECEMBER DECEMBER 2014 2014 GIBRALTAR

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T

Photo by: Stewart Finlayson

he Ice Age is one of the most fascinating periods in early human history. The foundations of our culture today were established during more than two million years of Ice Age history.

Some of the most important Ice Age heritage sites are located in Europe, where human remains and rock art have been revealed, as well as campsites and living areas containing many exceptional finds. The importance of the sites is reflected in the increasing number of them being declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

There is evidence of an ever-increasing public interest in visiting culturally significant sites. The Ice Age Europe network establishes links between sites, across national borders, and promotes collaboration between European cities and regions, addressing issues from a scientific, touristic and governmental perspective.

The Ice Age Europe network, which tells the story of Ice Age people in Europe and our Pleistocene cultural heritage in space and time, met in Gibraltar recently, as one of two meetings hosted by the

network partners each year.

Stewart explains “The meeting focused on a series of collaborative programmes to be developed and special emphasis was given to tourism and educational aspects with the view to preparing schemes that could be eligible for future EU funding.

“The opportunity was taken to brief members on Gibraltar’s progress with the World Heritage bid and site visits to the candidate World Heritage Site were organised,” he adds. “The members are key Ice Age sites across Europe — in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy and Croatia.”

15 archaeological sites with Ice Age heritage and affiliated museums or visitor centers from six different European countries are the founding members of this

“

network which was established in 2013. There are a total of 18 members with a total of 350 personnel dedicated to the promotion of our common heritage — as scientists, managers, curators or guides.

“Gibraltar is one of the founder members,” Stewart explains, adding “We are co-ordinating the education committee which is appropriate as we have been very involved with working with local schools for a number of years now and we want to extend that experience to our partners.”

The network engages with the public in a variety of ways. “We are currently, for example, expecting a work station which will be placed in the Gibraltar Museum.

Visitors will be able to use it, and children play games on it related to the Ice Age and even contact

persons at other member sites online,” says Stewart.

Do how do Gibraltar’s Neanderthal sites fit within the network?

“It is definitely a key site. Curiously, of all the Ice Age sites Gibraltar was the only one to remain ice free throughout. So it is an excellent example of what happened in the south of Europe when the north was ice bound.

This is the kind of place where people survived to then re-colonise Europe.”

Gorham’s Cave is considered one of the last known habitations of the Neanderthals, so what are the plans for the area around the cave in the future?

“We are finalising our World Heritage plans for submission.

They include a management plan,” Stewart explains. “We are

[Gibraltar] is an excellent example of what happened in the south of Europe when the north was ice bound. of his is the kind of place where people survived to then recolonise Europe

The caves from the sea

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aiming to make the site as accessible as possible given the constraints of a sensitive archaeological site, so we are looking at observation points away from the main area but overlooking the site — boat visits without landing and virtual tours of the caves.”

Would a large volume of tourists visiting the caves, pose a threat to the heritage site itself?

“We are conscious of this which is why the sensitive parts of the caves will be of restricted access.,” he advises. “This is normal for this type of site. In fact, some sites such as Lascaux in France are completely closed to visitors. We are hoping that limited visits will be possible though.”

It is quite a project to undertake, and Stewart explains the aim is to create “an integrated interpretation of the sites that will include expansion of gallery space within the Gibraltar Museum and new interpretation facilities.

“We are initially looking at our field station at Parson’s Lodge for this. We hope to start on our first lookout site at the Europa Advance Batteries 1 and 2 very soon indeed. In the end we hope to have a product that Gibraltar will be proud of!” Stewart concludes happily. n

NETWORK MEMBERS Belgium Prehistomuseum Croatia Krapina Neanderthal Museum France Prehistory Museum of Solutre International Centre of Prehistory Isturitz, Oxocelhaya and Erberua Caves The Museum of Neanderthal Man Germany Museum of Prehistory Blaubeuren Neanderthal Museum Paläon - Research and Experience Centre Schöningen Spears Archaeopark Vogelherd

Some fruit and vegetable hawkers, with a donkey, from a time when hawkers would sell produce door to door

MIGHTY FORTRESS SET IN THE SILVER SEA Victorian & Edwardian Photographs of Gibraltar A new book featuring photographs of Gibraltar of the Victorian and Edwardian period will be published in early December.

Written by Richard Garcia, the book is divided into six sections: The City; the North Front and East Side; the Fortress; the South District and Beyond Europa Pass; Royal Visits, 1903 and 1904; and the Alameda Gardens and Europa Road.

Each of the sections is, in turn, divided into sub-sections. For example, the section on The City contains four sub-sections; the streets and squares; the churches; the markets; and Waterport.

The different subsections are each intro-

duced by a short historical preface. Each of the photographs that follow has a caption, and a short description placing it in context or drawing attention to a particular feature or detail.

The book has been conceived as a companion volume to Gibraltar Through the Lens, which brought together a wide miscellany of old Gibraltar picture postcards.

The book will be launched at the beginning of December, and will be available from all bookshops priced £15. n The facade of the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned, before it was completely refashioned in the 1930s

Italy Fumane Cave Spain Museum of Human Evolution Museum of Altamira Caves of Santimamiñe and Bizkaia Museum of Archaeology Tito Bustillo Cave & Rupestrian Art Centre Ekainberri - The Replica of the Ekain Cave UK & Gibraltar The Gibraltar Museum Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves

For further information visit www.ice-age-europe.eu

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Gibraltar Heritage Trust Calendar 2015 The Gibraltar Heritage Trust has published its Gibraltar Heritage Calendar 2015. The Trust has collaborated with the Gibraltar Photographic Society on the occasion of their 50th Anniversary to create a calendar which captures elements of Gibraltar’s rich and varied heritage through a collection of stunning photographs.

13 themes were set, aimed at encouraging creative thinking and storytelling through the power of the image. The themes were: Geology, Military heritage, Vernacular architecture, People / community/ language, Natural heritage/ flora and fauna, Engineering, Maritime, Views and vistas, Streetscapes, Civic buildings, ‘Beauty in the detail’, Traditions and one Wild Card (left to the discretion of

the judges). The outcome was over 300 striking images of Gibraltar which have been whittled down to the 25 that make up this calendar.

Heritage is not just about the past, but about the present and the future. The decisions we take today on what is built, where, what it looks like and what it will be used for is the legacy we pass on to future generations. It is this, sometime intangible, message of sustainability that is put across as the theme for this year’s calendar.

The calendar continues in its usual A4 size and comes with its own envelope, useful for those who may wish to send it abroad to friends and relatives. The Heritage Trust Calendar is an ideal Christmas gift — it lasts the whole year and once the year is out, the pictures can be framed as prints.

The Calendar is priced at £6 and is available from the Gibraltar Heritage Trust shop at the Main Guard in John Mackintosh Square or from local newsagents and bookshops. n

Gibraltar’s Bats The Gib-Bats project in conjunction with the Gibraltar Government’s Department for the Environment has recently released a short informative flyer called ‘Our Amazing Bats; A short introduction to the bats of Gibraltar’.

Gib-Bats is a collaborative study of Gibraltar’s bats between The Gibraltar Museum and GONHS and the flyer is a quick insight into these often misunderstood mammals which are under huge threat on a worldwide basis.

The Gib-Bats project was created to try to establish the extent and condition of the local bat populations. Sadly, bats in Gibraltar over the past two decades have been hugely affected by human disturbance and the project is doing their best to help these animals re build their numbers and also educate the community as to why they are such an important part of the local ecosystem. n This flyer is available free of charge from the Gibraltar Museum or the Botanic Gardens and is available for download at www.underground-gibraltar/GibBats

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The GibBats project was created to try to establish the extent and condition of the local bat populations 49

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Gibraltar Stamps 2014 Collection The Gibraltar stamps 2014 collection is now available and includes all of 2014 commemorative stamps issued by Gibraltar.

GibTalks Gibraltar Cultural Services, working alongside teacher and playwright Julian Felice, will be holding a conference on Saturday 24th January 2015 at the John Mackintosh Hall based on the successful TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) series of talks (www.ted.com).

to members of the general public who would like the opportunity to speak to an audience about an issue close to their hearts. Interested parties should contact gibtalks@hotmail.com or inform the Gibraltar Cultural Services, Events Department at John Mackintosh Hall on telephone 20067236 or email: culture.info@culture. gov.gi. Final slots will be allocated through a public draw.

Tickets for the event will be available shortly and will enable ticket-holders to drop in and out of the event as they please during the course of the day, with refreshments and live music provided in the premises.

Gib Talks has a Facebook event page and a Twitter account (@gib_talks) for more information. n

Gib Talks will see a range of local speakers deliver 15-minute talks on a broad spectrum of subjects with the aim of focusing on the anecdotal, the personal and the light-hearted as opposed to heavy-going academics and agendas. The speakers will represent a cross-section of the community and will help to make up a rich and varied programme.

In addition to the invited guest speakers, four 10-minute slots will also be made available

Four 10-minute slots will be made available to members of the general public who would like the opportunity to speak to an audience about an issue close to their hearts

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The Year Collection includes information about the 2014 stamps translated into six languages, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish and Chinese as these are collected by people worldwide.

This is the Gibraltar Philatelic Bureau flagship product which traditionally is always issued at the end of the year and is a great way to collect all of our yearly stamps in one attractive and convenient presentation folder.

The year collection is priced at ÂŁ45.00 and is available for purchase from the Philatelic Shop outside the Main Post Office or online on www.gibraltar-stamps. com. n

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Dr MARCO VRICELLA the art of restoring form and function

interview with Dr. Marco Vricella – Cosmetic Surgeon, Aria Medical Group

This month we catch up with Dr Marco Vricella, the Italian Cosmetic Surgeon, who has been consulting in Gibraltar for the last nine years, to find out a little more about him.

and colleagues about their procedures.

Word of mouth recommendations are so important in a tight-knit community like this one and we work hard to maintain the highest possible standards of care before, during and after surgery.

If we came to dinner at your house, what would you make?

Well, I’m Italian and a proud one at that, so it would have to be some of my mother’s recipes! I love pasta and I eat it every day! Don’t believe anyone that tells you that it makes you put on weight. Good quality pasta with a homemade sauce is really tasty and healthy!

What’s your favourite place in Gibraltar?

The truth is my days here are pretty intense as I offer private consultations at College Clinic, Regal House and the days are always really busy. I meet people considering surgery giving free consultations and the rest of the time I am meeting existing clients for post-procedure follow-ups. That’s always my priority when I am here.

Having said that I have been known to sneak in a scone and cream (or 2!) and hot cup of tea in a nearby cafe. I love the unique style here. I’m also determined to get some free time to explore more, taking the vintage cable car up to see the apes — my daughter, who’s 4 ½, would love that.

When you are in the border queue what are you thinking about?

Ha! It’s true that coming over to Gibraltar gives me time to think. Usually my chief Patient Care Coordinator, Louise Truelove, and I are going through the schedule for the day’s consultations; sometimes we’re singing to a tune on the car radio (badly) and other times I’m thinking about my young daughter, who I really miss when I’m travelling for work.

Are you a good driver?

Well, you’re asking me, so I’m saying yes! If you ask Louise or other colleagues you might get a very different answer. I live between Madrid, Marbella and Gibraltar so I travel a lot, but I take the train as much as possible – it’s my time to relax and unwind.

Why did you choose Gibraltar as a base for your consultations?

It’s no secret that for Aria Medical Group, Gibraltar is very important.

Clients here are focused on quality and professionalism; they are demanding — which I really appreciate — it makes me feel like my work is valued. We have built up a really solid client base who are our biggest fans, telling their friends

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Clients here are focused on quality and professionalism; they are demanding

If we open your fridge at home right now, what would we find?

Well, that depends! I’m in Gibraltar/ Marbella 4 days out of 5 every other week so if depends whether the supermarkets are still open when I get back to Madrid. Having said that, there is always pasta in the house — my Mum would be very upset with me if I didn’t have some in the cupboard at all times!

I don’t ever drink alcohol but I have a bit of an obsession for fizzy water and lime, so they are usually in there too.

And I’d like to take this opportunity to wish readers a very merry Christmas and a healthy New Year. n

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“

I don’t ever drink alcohol but I have a bit of an obsession for fizzy water and lime

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Isabella Jimenez Bsc (Hons)

Me Time for Mums to be Sport On’s Isabella Jimenez Bsc (Hons) has recently completed a prenatal massage and therapy course, and is now offering pregnancy massages to her growing client list of mums to be. Fascinated, we decided to find out more...

What first made you interested in this specific therapy and where did you complete the course?

I was searching for courses online and came across the Pregnancy & Postnatal Therapy masterclass. It is a topic I have always been interested in and with over six new babies in the family and a number of friends becoming pregnant, I thought it was the perfect time to complete it as this was not part of my degree.

The course was taught by two osteopaths and a midwife in London and took place over two full days.

How does the technique differ from other massage therapies you offer?

I do Sports Therapy on a daily basis which involves a lot of deep tissue massage and rehabilitation. The pregnancy sessions I am now offering are a lighter type of massage but also incorporate osteopathic techniques to mobilise the spine and stretch different areas of the body especially where pain or problems are present.

Included in the session is also a

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well-being blood pressure reading, kinesiotaping of the belly and special exercises for them to do at home.

Can all women with normal, lowrisk pregnancies undergo the therapy and what are the benefits?

The sessions are recommended for all women after their 12th week of pregnancy who are in need of a full body pampering, suffering from back pain or just want to treat themselves to a massage. The size of the belly does not matter as pillows are used for comfortable positioning.

We’ve heard that babies can also benefit from massage therapy — do you think this is a logical next step?

Yes, baby massage is another course I am looking at completing in the near future. n

Pregnancy sessions are a lighter type of massage incorporating osteopathic techniques to mobilise the spine and stretch different areas of the body kinesiotaping of the belly

Gibraltar

Have a Cr a c k ing Chris tmas 160 Main Street, Gibraltar · Tel. +350 200 49504

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www.facebook.com/HollandandBarrettGibraltar

@HBGibraltar

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Gift yourself a younger looking face & neck

Most of us over 40 know how it feels; to look in the mirror and notice that our skin is losing its ability to bounce back in the mornings. Bags under the eyes seem more noticeable, skin is tired looking, lines deeper around the eyes, and mouth, and the neck is getting loose and saggy.

Although diet, exercise and moisturisers can help maintain healthier skin, the natural aging process means that it is inevitable that our faces and necks will age as natural collagen production declines and gravity and environmental exposure take their toll. This can make us look more tired and older than we feel; affecting self-esteem.

So what’s really at the top of your Christmas Wish List?

Do you wish to look younger and feel more confident and positive? If so, then it might be worthwhile finding out more about how cosmetic surgery can help.

Minimally Invasive Facial Surgery There are a number of discreet and highly effective cosmetic procedures that can successfully address these issues, smoothing out wrinkles, tightening underlying tissue, removing excess skin on the cheeks and neck, and giving a more overall youthful appearance.

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However we understand that some are anxious about facial surgery, not wishing to have that rather unattractive ‘wind tunnel’ look of an over-stretched face.

The truth is, modern ‘minimally invasive’ techniques are highly effective and with minimal scarring, giving very natural looking results! These days, most people who have face and neck lifts and/or eye bag removal often keep it a secret! They say their fresh, healthy look is down to ‘good genes’ and diet; well more often than not it’s down to a great surgeon!

Dr. Marco Vricella explains, “I perform the surgery under a very safe general anaesthetic and after 2 nights at the private luxury HC International Hospital the patient can go home. When I lift the face the scars are placed in the natural fold right in front of the ears, and when I lift the neck the scars run in the fold behind the ears and into the hair line so that they are very well hidden. In addition to pulling and redraping the skin, I also place sutures in the underlying facial muscles, in order to give a more natural yet long lasting result.”

So December could be your month to start making these dreams a reality.

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January and February are a good time to discreetly have a procedure, that’s why these months are popular for all types of cosmetic surgery, allowing you to start the New Year looking and feeling like a New You. So, why not consider a private consultation with Dr. Marco Vricella of Aria Medical Group this month, and schedule your procedure in the New Year?

The team at Aria Medical Group would like to wish all their clients a very Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year.

For more information visit the website and book a free consultation.

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

Some of Aria’s most popular procedures: + Breast Augmentation

+ Face Lifts

+ Breast Uplift (Mastopexy)

+ Eye bag Removal (Blepharoplasty)

+ Breast Reduction

+ Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)

+ Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

+ Cosmetic Dentistry

+ Liposuction Book your FREE consultation

FREE Aftercare

(+34) 951 276 748 in English (+34) 671 639 353 in English

(+34) 662 936 058 en Español 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).

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health& fitness Chiropractic Health Clinic

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

Dr Steven J. Crump B.Sc, DC, MCC Open: Mon - Fri 9.30am - 6.30pm

Treatment of Back Pain, Neck Pain, Headaches, Limb Pain & Sports Injuries Tel: 200 44226

ICC Suite F5C 1st Floor, Casemates, Gibraltar Member of British Chiropractic Association

Dr Carsten Rudolf Steiner BSc DC 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

Unit F5, 1st Floor, ICC

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

Isabella Jimenez Sports Therapist GST, BSc (Hons) Tel: + 350 54002226 Email: sportongib@gmail.com

STEINER CHIROPRACTIC CLINICS

health & medical directory

Zaneta Kwiecien Sport Rehabilitator GSR, BSc (Hons), OMT Medical Acupuncturist Tel: + 350 62967134 or + 34 665 684 738 Email: zaneta@sportongib.com

Dr Carsten Rudolf Steiner BSc, DC Steiner Chiropractic Clinics, College Clinic, Regal House Tel: 200 77777

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 Holland & Barrett 160 Main Street

HEARING CENTRE

Oigamas Hearing Centre Unit S3h 2nd Floor, ICC Casemates Square Tel: 200 63644 Email: info@oigamas.com

Need somebody to talk to?

Opticians / Optometrists Gache & Co Limited 266 Main Street. Tel: 200 75757 L. M. Passano Optometrist 38 Main Street. Tel: 200 76544

7 days a week 5pm-9pm

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

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PERSONAL TRAINERS

Simon Coldwell Complete Fitness Unit G3, Eliott Hotel Tel: 200 51113 Isabella Jimenez BSc (hons) Unit 5, 1st Floor, ICC Tel: 54002226 email: jimenez.isabella@gmail.com Zaneta Kwiecien Sport Rehabilitator GSR, BSc (Hons), OMT Medical Acupuncturist Tel: + 350 62967134 Email: zaneta@sportongib.com

SPECIALISTS

Specialist Medical Clinic 1st Floor International Commercial Centre, Casemates. Tel: 200 49999 Dr Vricella, Cosmetic Surgeon College Clinic, Regal House Tel: + 34 951 276 748

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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Nurses in Gibraltar in 1956

The History of Nursing in Gibraltar

The book explains how nursing has evolved over the years and provides an understanding on how and why many changes took place.

The progression shown within Gibraltar’s Nursing Environment is astonishing. The book portrays the

A new book The History of Nursing in Gibraltar: Presented through historical facts and a recollection of memories filled with an abundance of material to appeal to a broad audience has been launched.

Available in bookshops from the beginning of December. n

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Written by Anthony Kevan Sercombe, this book also includes brief history which has helped shape the modern Gibraltar Health Authority.

Sercombe depicts Nursing Professionals in Gibraltar by direct reference and through illustrations.

The photographs present a visual representation of the time.

different departments that carry out specialised services and how they have accommodated the growth in the Gibraltar Health Authority.

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Together we work out the main reasons — physiological, behavioural and psychological — that lead to weight gain and with the 1-to-1 guidance of a professional coach we achieve the planned result. During the journey we will reveal psychological and physiological “road blocks” which stop successful weight loss and so achieve a long term result. As an additional benefit the course includes training in general life coaching to effectively improve your emotional state and level of life.

Studies show that people are more successful in long-term weight loss when there is personal contact and accountability. They want to be taken by the hand and led step by step through the process of personal transformation with the help of a coach who can offer real, long-term solutions.

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The next move is yours!

Call now, book your first free consultation. Catherine +350 54025246 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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Ta Dah! It’s the Happy Hooves Author Oh! Oh! Oh! What inspires a children’s author keep telling tales?

We caught up with A Bogie of the Happy Hooves series to find out.

What are the inspirations for your books?

Often it is a very random conversation with my toddler that acts as my inspiration, and any game that makes my little ones giggle. I also find that a good long walk on a very windy beach in Tarifa does amazing things for the soul and for thinking up silly rhymes.

When do you write and what is the most enjoyable part of writing?

The beauty of writing is that it fits around being a busy mum. I generally write when my children are in nursery in the mornings, and if something comes to me when we’re on the move then I’ll just jot it on any scrap of paper I can find.

The most enjoyable part of writing, for me, is getting lost in another world, and in my case, generally a fun and silly one.

How did you become involved with the Literary Festival 2014 and how did you find the experience?

I loved the festival, it was a wonderful experience and I was thrilled to be involved in it. The festival is fantastic for Gibraltar and the success it had this year and last is something to be very proud of. I ran a fun and informal session where I read my books and ran some craft activities. The audience age of my books are young and so their attention spans are pretty short — it’s important to keep reading fun and so mixing it with other activities works really well rather than just read at them for an hour!

I was also extremely proud to be part of the EY campaign for the Literary festival. EY gave a copy of Happy Hooves, Ta Dah! to every preschool child in Gibraltar — it was a fantastic initiative and it was very rewarding to see how thrilled the children were to take home their own book.

And your family now?

I am a very proud mother/cuddler/chief tickler/maid of two small kiddiwinks called Reuben (3) and Amabel, who turns 2 this month. I am married to a gorgeous Scotsman, Michael, and our third child is due in February.

reading are for children?

They are hugely important. Reading is a fun and imaginative activity, which opens up our children’s minds and teaches them so many things they wouldn’t know about otherwise, from pirates to dinosaurs to morals and behaviour. Reading to children is vital in teaching communication and language and Is A Bogie just a pen name?

No it isn’t! My married name is Bogie, and of course is the pre-cursor for them learning worse still, my initial is A. Therefore, I am a to read. bogie. It’s not the name that I used to scribble on the back of my rough book surrounded by So now you are an author with an red hearts but it brings much amusement to international literary festival under your my family and friends — and it is pretty good belt, do you have plans for more books and what direction would you like your as the name for a children’s author! writing to take?

I hope that if these books sell well, then I will get to write some more books in the Happy Hooves series. I would also like to move beyond the series and work on a new set of books. I love writing for 2-6 year olds so I hope to stay in this area of writing.

“

The most enjoyable part of writing, for me, is getting lost in another world, and in my case, generally a fun and silly one

What are your favourite things?

In no particular order, and by no means all, I love: my family, tea, writing, chocolate, walks on the beach, rhyming, scrabble, Sunday roasts, red lipstick, craft, Strictly Come Dancing What do you enjoy about living in Gibraltar? (sorry but I do) and catching up with friends.

I moved out here with my husband (then boyfriend) Michael in 2006 for a year in the And your hopes for the future? sunshine and we haven’t found our way back Hundreds of hopes! For now, with baby yet. We love the lifestyle Gibraltar provides, number three on the way, I hope for a happy, it is a wonderful and safe place to bring up a if slightly hectic, year ahead with my family family. We love spending time visiting beau- and to continue writing as much as I can. n tiful places in Andalucia, especially Tarifa and La Peña where my book series, Happy Hooves, The books, illustrated by Rebecca Elliott, are available was inspired. from the Gibraltar Bookshop and Midtown Bookstore.

How important do you think books and

Or contact Anna for a signed copy www.facebook.com/ abogieauthor or anna@abogie.co.uk

Tell us about your background — where did you grow up and what were your own early memories of books?

I had a very happy childhood and was born and raised in Norwich, England. I have a very close family, with a sister and brother. My sister is also here in Gibraltar, it is lovely to have family close by.

I was always an avid reader, as were my sister and mum — Roald Dahl’s BFG and Enid Blyton’s The Faraway Tree and Malory Towers conjure very fond and happy memories of being at home and sneakily reading under the bedcovers with a torch when I was supposed to be asleep.

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connections Rookes Evelyn Bell Crompton was only 10 years old when he came to Gibraltar with the 2nd West Yorkshire Light Infantry. The boy’s father was an officer in the militia and he had volunteered to lead the 2nd to Gibraltar and he brought with him his wife, daughter and youngest son.

Exploring Gibraltar would have been a real boys’ own adventure in 1855, besides the beaches the caves and the Rock itself, there were all the soldiers and sailors who had been fighting, or were about to fight, in the Crimean War. Crompton even went to the Crimea aboard HMS Dragon

He became convinced of the future of electric lighting and formed his own company which became one of the world’s first large-scale manufacturers of electrical equipment

From Gibraltar Boy Sailor To Electrical Genius words | Reg Reynolds

As he scampered around the Rock of Gibraltar and investigated the hills and valleys of Andalucia the young boy could hardly have imagined that one day he would be more responsible than anyone else for electrifying the United Kingdom.

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which was commanded by his mother’s cousin Captain Houston Stewart.

When he arrived at Crimea he visited his older brother in the trenches. In the last days of the war he came under fire and was entitled to the Crimea medal and the Sebastapol clasp.

In his autobiography Crompton wrote: “I started as my cousin’s guest on the Dragon but eventually it was found to be necessary that I should be enrolled as a cadet in the Royal Navy. Thus I may be said to have commenced my service to the Queen Victoria at the age of rather less than 11.”

Instead of the Navy, however, Crompton went to school at Harrow, where showing his growing interest in electronics, he built his own static electricity generator.

In 1864 he joined the Army and served with the Royal Rifes in India. There he witnessed the Royal Engineers building railways and himself developed steam engines.

Crompton returned from India in 1875 and became a partner in an engineering company building agricultural mills and heating plants. While designing and in-

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Adopt Don’t Buy

Give a Dog a Home If you are interested in adopting call the GSPCA on 540 19968 or 540 29927

led to orders world-wide. The company installed a generator set in a Calcutta hotel, providing India’s first ever electricity supply.

Crompton was an early campaigner for standardisation of electrical systems and was a founder member of the International Electrotechnical Commission and twice president of the Institution of Electrical Engineers.

He was also a member of the Royal Society and a founder member of the Royal Automobile Club.

R. E. B. Crompton was born 31st May, 1845 at Thirsk, Yorkshire. He died at Ripon, Yorkshire on 15th February, 1940, aged 94. If the lights go out in Britain this winter as some experts are predicting they will be wishing he was still around. n

Exploring Gibraltar would have been a real boys’ own adventure in 1855, besides the Rock itself, there were all the soldiers and sailors who had been fighting, or were about to fight, in the Crimean War

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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24/11/2014 16:18

A Working Scholar

words | Eve Maddock-Jones

Finding a job seems a daunting prospect for many teenagers; associated with the inevitable metamorphosis from youth to mature adult. Currently the legal working age in Gibraltar is 16, so essentially from the moment you blow 16 candles out on your birthday cake you can be down at the job centre applying.

The majority of young adults aim to find work part-time, working after school or the classic Saturday shift, having to coincide school. The task of being in school and having a job appears unmanageable to some. Indeed this was felt by some A-Level students when asked about employment.

“I don’t think that it’s realistic to expect

someone to go to school and work… School’s more than enough for me,” said one. But there are students who study and work without any issues. “I have a part-time job working 4.308.30 three times a week after school,” one such sixth-form student explained. “Although it can be tiring I enjoy it… I don’t find being in school and working overly strenuous.”

Getting this balance is beneficial for high school students, preparing them for university where many would hope to have a part-time job. Teachers at Westside School echoed such arguments. “Going and living independently is a shock. Getting experience in one already intimidating venture will relieve some stress for students there.”

Gaining confidence and independence are other advantages too. Knowing that the pay you receive is due to your hard work is one of “the most satisfying, liberating feelings,” said one working student. “If I didn’t have my job I’d just be sat around at home. Working means I’m being paid to do something productive.”

That pay is also a symbol of the edge you’d have over all those who you’ll be competing with for jobs in the future. In recent research into youth employment experts explained that “the biggest problem is not that students are under-qualified; people are coming out of university tripping over diplomas nowadays…

The issue is that they have no experience.

Degrees only go so far. If you can’t use a photocopier you’re less desirable to an employer.”

The notions of getting a job are obviously positive, but the first step is to actually apply yourself to finding one. Gibraltar’s full of job opportunities, you just have to look around.

Just last month Brussels held meetings about continuously tackling the issues of Youth Employment. There are parades of shops, restaurants, all prospects for work. The crime of laziness is the biggest reason some are unable to find work. No employer is going to knock on your bedroom door offering you jobs. You have to create your own CV and make yourself known to employers.

Ultimately getting a job comes down to the individual’s drive and willingness to put themselves out there. But sitting around doing nothing doesn’t get you anywhere. That’s guaranteed. n

Chief Minister meets Gibraltar students in Washington In November, the Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo and the Deputy Chief Minister, Dr Joseph Garcia attended a meeting with 16 students from Gibraltar who are undergoing internships at the Washington Centre.

The meeting took place at the offices of the Heritage Foundation and was also attended

by Nile Gardiner, the Director of the Margaret

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Thatcher Centre for Freedom and Luke Coffey who is a Margaret Thatcher Fellow.

The sixteen students, who have work placements with companies, NGOs and other organisations in the United States each gave a brief presentation explaining where they were based and what they were doing. They were all very pleased with the internship programme

and some of them expressed a desire to continue in the United States once the scheme comes to a close in a few weeks time.

The Chief Minister explained the background to the work that the Government was doing in the United States and the efforts to develop further political and commercial ties between Gibraltar and the US. n

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 17:04

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24/11/2014 16:21

Freddie Poggio:

photo memories

words | Elena Scialtiel

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 12:46

There’s a spring-clean feel of neatness in the incisive diagonal lines that define red rooftops and pastel-coloured walls and converge towards the globular shape of verdigris blobbing out of the centre of the composition, to sanction the Cathedral’s spire as the ultimate landmark in the geometric maze of the Old Town.

Landmark is in fact the title of the medium-sized maximum-impact painting that landed Freddie Poggio the first prize at the 41st International Art Exhibition in November 2014.

Very unexpected, says the honoured and humbled keen sportsman and chess player, about his foray into the active side of art, after having spent the last 30 years teaching it but not practising it.

His triumphal comeback has sparked in him a fresh drive to carry on painting to build up a collection: “Me ha picado el bicho!” he jokes about his rekindling of an old flame.

With his first and only, but hopefully not last, exhibition dating back to 1974, opened by Sir Joshua Hassan, it’s high time he treated Gibraltar to a new solo.

However, he shuns instant fame, as he still sees himself more of a teacher than a pure artist, “Unlike,” he says, “two colleagues

of mine whom I consider to be artists first and teachers second: Mario Finlayson and Christian Hook.”

Aware of the potential risks of gambling on a solely artistic career, Freddie went for the safety net of education and dedicated his life to instilling the passion for drawing in a generation of pupils, without having too much time to practise what he preached.

And when he retired, he dedicated himself to keeping active with sports, until he injured his shoulder and had to give up golfing for a while. Unsure what to do with his spare time, he took up his son Justin’s challenge to pick up palette and brushes again if Justin aced his Italian exams.

Freddie soon found motivation in Justin’s A-star and inspiration in the casual encounter with a photograph posted in My Gibraltar Facebook page: “I liked the flatness of its colours and the contrast of bright and pastels, without tonal value, only blocks. So I requested photographer Michael Fa’s permission to reproduce his work on canvas and I started working on it. What struck me mostly was the angle and distance this photo was taken from. I reckon it was from the Upper Rock, well above Arengo’s Palace with a mighty zoom lens, to capture the sharpness of detail.”

The artwork managed such a perfect likeness that it is hard to tell apart a photograph of Michael’s photograph and a photograph of Freddie’s picture, which is bound to fool the onlooker into believing it is indeed a digitally manipulated snapshot printed on canvas.

At closer inspection, one can appreciate the artistic whim that makes Landmark more than a diligent copy made by any mannerist graced with nothing more than accurate penmanship. There are veiled tributes to Freddie’s ‘role models’ like Euan Uglow, just to mention one, an artist he admired in the ’80s

“

I liked the flatness of its colours and the contrast of bright and pastels, without tonal value, only blocks GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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for his habit of prolonging the lines beyond the point they were supposed to delimit a form, leaving the impression of sketch lying underneath the paint, as well as bringing to the fore the ‘negative shapes’.

The contribution of sketch lines to the final product are often underestimated, but they do play a pivotal part in setting the mood of a painting, whether thick, thin, ruler-generated or free-hand, bare or hidden under the colours. Freddie’s disciplined training transpires through his rigorous construction of the geometrical grid, and the diligent abiding to the dictations of the vanishing point theory: “I spent one summer as student intern at an architect studio because I wanted to pursue that career. But after days of tracing lines of different thickness and length precise down to the fraction of a millimetre, I realised that architecture is more science than art, and I saw it was not for me, as I sought freedom of expression in my drawings.”

The philosophy of ‘negative shape’ intrigues Freddie: “When you draw an object, you don’t just draw that object, but also the space around it, and that becomes a shape in

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“

When you draw an object, you don’t just draw that object, but also the space around it, and that becomes a shape in its own right

its own right,” he says. Therefore, artists create two ways of looking at paintings, whether focusing on what is there, or focusing on what isn’t. That’s why his other entry to the International, Past Its Former Glory, features brushstrokes of sky blue added over the foliage as well as under, to bring to the fore the importance of negative space and dignify the light colour of the sky, against the contrast with dark greens.

Freddie is having a fling with landscapes at the moment, but he doesn’t want to be labelled as a hyperrealist or mannerist, like perhaps his Landmark may mislead his critics to assume. He is already mulling over more abstract work, because he firmly believes in the Picassian concept that abstract must evolve from figurative and not sprout out as the convenient excuse for lack of skill.

Not limiting himself to traditional media, Freddie has discovered the possibilities that iPad drawing apps have to offer. He has been experimenting with these and wants to develop these further, possibly as an aid for future paintings or even as the subject of Gibraltar’s first ever all-digital exhibition. n

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 12:46

Hockney Pulls the Crowds

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It was a full house in November for the Gibraltar Decorative and Fine Arts Society’s lecture at the Elliot Hotel when Peter Webb, a long standing friend of David Hockney, talked about the artist’s life.

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26/11/2014 12:53

The Keys of the City open Spanish doors

words | Elena Scialtiel

A Gibraltarian historical novel has been translated into Spanish and is being published in Madrid.

A decade after its launch, The Keys of the City by local paediatrician and historian Sam Benady has captured the attention of Spanish publishing house Nagrela Editores, which specialises in fiction and essays about Jewish culture — and it is available nationwide as Las llaves de Gibraltar.

The title was slightly modified from the original for marketing purposes and surely it is bound to raise interest — and eyebrows —

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because of its apparent double-entendre.

The story of the book is an adventure per se: first written in 1987 based on Diego Lamelas’s chronicles La compra de Gibraltar por los conversos andaluces, Sam submitted it to several editors but it was rejected. He decided to self-publish it in 2005 to a good local reception due to the reputation he had built with his previous essays and short stories about Sherlock Holmes in Gibraltar. Sam had previously

translated Lamelas’s work into English under the title The Sale of Gibraltar in 1474.

Later, Sam’s friend Cayetano Ramirez Facio, a Spaniard with strong ties to Gibraltar through his mother, proposed himself as the translator, being bilingual and fully proficient in Castilian.

Again, the translation lay around for a while until a cousin of Sam’s wife introduced it to Nagrela, who sussed out the literary potential of this little-known episode of Gibraltar history, so far nothing more than a footnote at the crossroads of Muslim and Spanish rule of the citadel.

In fact, The Keys of the City recounts the events that led tall, dark, handsome and ambitious Pedro Herrera to purchase the Rock of Gibraltar in order to provide a safe haven for the conversos, Jews hurriedly and forcibly converted to Christianity, who fled persecution Cordoba and Seville in the Fifteenth Century.

Unfortunately, they were expelled again two years later by Enrique, son of Juan Alonso Pérez de Guzmán y Fonseca, second Duke of Medina Sidonia who had first agreed to the sale, for the sum of one million maravedies.

The publication of this Spanish translation cannot come with better timing, after the public apology to the local Jewish Community offered at the Instituto Cervantes in December 2013 by the 22nd Duke of Medina Sidonia and Grandee of Spain Don Leoncio Alonso González de Gregorio y Álvarez de Toledo.

The book is set just before and during the reign of Isabel of Castile, and traces the footstep of Pedro and his family, in a time frame that spans from their childhood and adolescence in Cordoba to their fleeing to Salonika, in the Ottoman Empire, and eventually to Jerusalem when the city falls under its rule.

Sam says that the latter part is fictional because there is no factual account of what the conversos’ destiny was once they fled Gibraltar and headed to Portugal (where from they were expelled too shortly after), Morocco or further afield across the Mediterranean, most reverting to Judaism.

Although Pedro is indeed an historical character, his endeavours are fictionalised and romanticised to partly fit the swashbuckler genre. “I don’t indulge too much in sword bashing,” Sam says, but a sprinkle of punctilio is in order. “The Count of Niebla, grandson of Guzmàn el Bueno and father of the old Duke died trying to capture Gibraltar 30 years earlier, and the Moors hung his corpse in a cage at the Castle to make an example of him. So, when

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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the second Duke recaptures it, he challenges his knights to bring down his father’s bones, hoping his son Enrique will accept the task. But he falters and Pedro volunteers instead to get in the good books of the Duke — and so doing he obviously gets in the son’s bad books!”

Sam adds: “I also introduce a converso banker in Seville named Cansino, a historical character, because that was my great-grandmother’s name, who in fact descended from a family of conversos returned to Judaism. I styled him as a redhead, which is an in-joke as I used to be ginger. Coincidentally, Margarita Cansino was the real name of actress Rita Hayworth, whom I believed to be a natural redhead and when I discovered she had her brown hair dyed red to better fit the bombshell part, I was slightly disappointed... Another fictional character is Pedro’s brother who is a doctor, so I can plug in some medical advice from the most illuminated surgeons of that time.”

Plenty of romance as well: back in Cordoba, young Pedro woos Teresa de Aguilar, the blonde and beautiful daughter of an aristocrat, with the hope of rising in Spanish society. Teresa rejects him and becomes the Queen’s lady in waiting, but Teresa’s uncle and guardian makes Pedro his personal adviser and sends him on an errand that accidentally ends up with his first involvement with Gibraltar, as he was present at its capture by Spanish troops.

During this voyage of self-discovery, besides realising that his life aspiration is being the alcaide of Gibraltar, he becomes aware of his

Sam Benady

It wouldn’t be swashbuckling enough without intrigue, petty politics and treachery

requited love for his employer’s daughter, brunette Beatriz, and they marry upon his return, with the Bishop’s blessing, to broadcast Pedro’s allegiance to the Church.

And it wouldn’t be swashbuckling enough without intrigue, petty politics and treachery — and a lovechild, of course: Pedro has an affair with none other than the daughter of a hermit who lives in a wooden shack in Catalan Bay (when it was not yet known as such). The man really existed and, according to Lamelas, he prophesied several events which Sam makes happen as part of the plot.

In the late Eighties, Sam had great aspirations for this lovechild: he wanted to write a spin-off novel about him joining Columbus expedition to the Indies and have it published for the America’s fifth centenary in 1992, but the idea never materialised. So far, of course, but given his prolificacy in historic literature solo or in tandem with Mary Chiappe for the Bresciano series, the words ‘the end’ have not been written yet.

Being set so far back in time, details about Gibraltar topography are sketchy and barely recognisable on a modern map. But some landmarks are still there, like the Moorish Castle, the Spanish Governor’s residence, built over the Moorish Baths, where the Museum is today, a stone throw from the mosque, freshly consecrated as the Catholic cathedral.

And the Museum is the place to go, together with local bookshops, to purchase the book The Keys of the City for just £10. n

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26/11/2014 15:26

coffee time

by Alan Gravett

SUDOKU Just for fun!

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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: 10th December 2014 Last month’s winner: Iris Caetano, Scud Hill LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS: Across: As well, Chess, Ice tea, Weasel, Itch, Eminence, Carbon Paper, Calendar, Chic, Nordic, Amused, Since, Street.

Down: Ascetic, Wotcher, Leasehold, Clean, Essence, Solver, Important, Aileron, Picture, Raiment, Scones, Noise.

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Across 1. Vassal’s obligation of loyalty to

his Lord (6) 4. Pungent (5) 7. They are housed in crania (6) 8. See 9 9. and 8. Famous US animator (4,6) 10. Come before (8) 12. One of 9 8s most famous

creations (6,5) 17. Just a couple (3,2,3) 19. See 16 20. Harmonise (6) 21. System for cooling (abbreviation) (6) 22. (As of an actor) forget ones words;

do some kitchen work (3,2) 23. City in India (6) Down 1. Small gun (7) 2. From the largest continent (7) 3. Will; biblical books (9) 4. Quick; breathing (5) 5. Like a non-contributing batsman in

cricket (7) 6. Ornamented paper napkin (6) 11. Not permanent (9) 13. Inefficiently (7) 14. Experience (7) 15. Place in an envelope to accompany

a letter (7) 16. 12’s aquatic friend (6,4) 18. In cricket, move towards the wicket

before bowling (3,2)

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

25/11/2014 18:17

FUTURE VISION Gibraltar & the SS Titan

words | Reg Reynolds

Could Morgan Robertson see into the future? Certainly the author’s novel Futility or The Wreck of the Titan, was prescient in the way it portrayed the fate of a vessel so similar to that of RMS Titanic.

In Robertson’s book — which was published in 1898, 14 years before the sinking of the Titanic — the SS Titan is a huge and luxurious British-owned passenger liner. It is deemed ‘unsinkable’ and has not nearly enough lifeboats for the 3,000 passengers and crew. In the month of April Titan hits an iceberg and sinks in the North Atlantic with great loss of life. The captain is among the few survivors.

The Titanic was a huge and luxurious British-owned pas-

senger liner which was deemed ‘unsinkable’ and had 20 lifeboats which could take only 1,728 people and there were 2,223 on board (Titanic’s maximum capacity was 3,300 passengers). On the night of 14th-15th April, 1912 the Titanic

The SS Titan is a huge and luxurious British-owned passenger liner. It is deemed ‘unsinkable’ and has not nearly enough lifeboats for the 3,000 passengers and crew

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hit an iceberg and sank in the North Atlantic with great loss of life (1,490 perished). Captain Edward Smith wasn’t among the survivors but Bruce Ismay, chairman of the White Star Line was.

Interestingly Robertson, who

served a dozen years in the merchant navy, brings Gibraltar into his novel. The leading character is a disgraced former Lieutenant of the Royal Navy named John Rowland. He is now a drunkard but still employed by the company that owns the Titan.

After Titan sinks there is pandemonium at Lloyd’s of London headquarters as insurers, stockholders and family of passengers gather together to wait for news of survivors. In his book Robertson wrote:

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“A feeble old gentleman had raised his voice above the sobbing of women and said: ‘My daughter-in-law is safe; but where is my son, and my grandchild. Then he hurried away but was back again the next day and the next. And when, on the tenth day of watching and waiting, he learned of another boatload of sailors: and children at Gibraltar, he shook his head, slowly, muttering ‘George, George’ and left the room. That night, after telegraphing the consul at Gibraltar of his coming, he crossed the channel.”

It emerges that the old man’s name is Mr. Selfridge and that his son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter were on the Titan.

He was also a major shareholder of Titan stock. He did not find

The Titanic — so similar to the Titan in Robertson’s book and yet it was written 14 years before the Titanic was launched

his son and granddaughter at Gibraltar but two months later he learns that the granddaughter may be alive when he attends a meeting with the major insurer.

Robertson wrote: “A child saved queried, the old gentleman. Dear me, it may be my little Myra. She was not at Gibraltar with the others. I would not care — I would not care about the money, if she was safe. But

my son — my only son — is gone; and Mr. Meyer I am a ruined man if the insurance is not paid.”

In the novel Rowland is revealed as a rejected lover of Mr.

Selfridge’s daughter-in-law a Mrs. Colonel Selfridge, and she confronts him when she finds him with her daughter Myra on the Titan. When the Titan sinks Colonel Selfridge dies and his wife and daughter are separated.

It turns out that Rowland did arrive at Gibraltar with little Myra but refused to hand the girl over to the consul.

Rowland make his way to New York where he is arrested and charged with kidnapping.

He is freed when the magistrate believes his story that he rescued the little girl. For the rest of the story you will have to buy the

His last book Empire of Japan, published in 1914, tells of a future war between Japan and the United States

book (it was reprinted in 2006) or read it on the internet.

Morgan Robertson was born on 30th September, 1861 the son of a ship’s captain on the Great Lakes.

He went to sea as cabin boy, sailed the world and eventually reached the rank of first mate.

On leaving the merchant navy he turned to writing sea stories for magazines and also penned numerous novels.

His last book Empire of Japan was another work of amazing prescience. The book, published in 1914, tells of a future war between Japan and the United States. Japan doesn’t openly declare war but launches sneak attacks on American shipping. An invasion of San Francisco is prevented by the hero of the story.

Robertson died on 24th March, 1915 and so wasn’t around for Pearl Harbour. n

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history revisited

Image of the Month This beautiful Dragonfly close-up against the sun was photographed

by David M Parody in his garden at home at Europa Point.

Send your images for Image of the Month to andrea@thegibraltarmagazine.com

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Sylvina Has a Plan and it is out for Christmas!

Local artist Gail Francis-Tiron has illustrated a children’s book by celebrated author Carmen Cordero Amores, and the delightful result, Sylvina Has A Plan, will be launched this month, just in time for Christmas.

Gail began the collaboration with the author Carmen following last year’s Gibunco Gibraltar International Literary Festival.

“During last year’s Gibraltar Literary Festival I was fortunate to have been assigned to work as a guide for the visiting authors,” she explains. “It was then that Carmen Cordero Amores, renowned for her humanitarian literary works, saw my painting Frog Chorus hanging in a local gallery. She commissioned me to work on the illustrations of her next bilingual (English and Spanish) children’s book.”

This was Gail’s first commission as a book illustrator and she felt honoured and extremely excited to have been given the challenge, especially as it was to contribute to a book which not only teaches children how to read in two languages, but delivers an environmental and

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humanitarian message.

Silvina Tiene Un Plan / Sylvina Has A Plan was launched at the prestigious Madrid Book Fair 2014 on 1st June 2014 at the Éride Ediciones stand. The Gibraltar book launch will take place at the Fine Arts Gallery at Casemates Square on Wednesday 17th December at 6.30pm. “Unfortunately the author cannot make it to the launch in Gibraltar,” Gail regrets, “so I am launching it on my own as the illustrator.”

The original illustrations will be at the launch and on sale for two days after that (during the Affordable Art Exhibition). Gail will then be book signing at the Gibraltar Bookshop on 20th December. Books will be on sale at all local book stores and the Gibraltar Museum after the launch date.

The book is written in English and Spanish to help children with both languages. The age range for the book is 7-14 years of age and it will make a very good Christmas gift. n

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The highly successful Gibunco Gibraltar International Literary Festival took place in November with around 100 authors contributing to the event with talks, presentations and musical features. This year’s event included an innovative Schools Project where the author went into our schools and talked to students. Now in its second year, the festival attendance was up an impressive 79% on last year’s event and it has already become an important feature of Gibraltar’s cultural calendar.

Photos: Taken at the Convent dinner and the festival closing event at the Caleta Hotel.

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79% up Total attendances soared from 1999 in 2013 to 3569 this year

43% up Online ticket sales increased from

1034 in 2013, to 1475 in 2014

125% up Tickets sold in Gibraltar increased from 357 in 2013 to 805 in 2014

Gibunco Gibraltar International Literary Festival 2014

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qLynn Daly Reception Supervisor, O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel What I like most about Christmas is seeing my family. I also like to see the town decorated and everything lit up. On Christmas day itself, I love watching Christmas movies!

pSimona Venckute Social Worker I love Christmas smells, especially when you wake up on Christmas morning and the house is full of smells when mum is cooking all the amazing Christmas dishes. I really like it when all the scents blend together into one big Christmas scent, the tree, the food and the winter!

What’s your favourite part of Christmas?

compiled by Nina Sostaric

Christmas is a time for family and friends, over-indulgence, giving and receiving, sparkly lights and warm winter smells.

What is your favourite part of the festive season? t Meme Fairbank Director, Denville Designs I like Christmas because it’s my annual holiday. I wait all year to catch up with my life. I am looking forward to it, because I get to spend time with my family. We always go away for Christmas and this year we are going skiing!

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pRobert Pincho (Age 3) St Joseph’s 1st School & Nursery Student I love all of the things of Christmas, like singing, Christmas chocolates, parties with everybody, decorations and Santa’s toys.

qHaylee Pincho (Age 9) St Joseph’s Middle School Student My favorite things about Christmas are opening the presents from Santa. I love the Christmas turkey and roast potatoes and veg. I also like being together with my family. On Christmas Eve I like to look at the sky to see if I can spot Santa’s sleigh.

pBernadett Szollosi Assistant Manager, Bistro Madeleine For me Christmas doesn’t mean the same as it used to when I was a child myself. I’ve got two daughters now, and seeing them get excited about Christmas makes me really happy. They bake, write letters to Santa and change their minds about their presents all the time, which makes it really a nice and happy season of the year. As expats in Gibraltar, we do miss our family, because we can’t get together for Christmas now, but we get together for dinner with friends instead.

t Ferdaows Bouchekouf College Student If I could talk to anyone for an hour I would talk to my mum, because she is the only person that I trust.

Derek Booth u Retired Photographer I am not really a Christmassy person, but I do like Christmas carols.

I like seeing children sing the carols and I could just sit and listen to them all day long.

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art for all

Play it Again, Sam! Sam Abudarham’s Songs of Songs

words | Elena Scialtiel

Years before Ziggy Marley put it into reggae for his 2003 album Dragonfly, a Gibraltarian was already singing about Shalom Salaam.

Different lyrics and very different melody of course, but the message is the same: the only way forward in the Middle East is peace between the cousins who ‘descend from Abraham’.

On the notes of a tune that would befit the cartoon biopic The Prince of Egypt, Professor Doctor Samuel Abudarham invokes biblical verses like ‘the swords be beaten into ploughs to work the arid

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land’ and for ‘the little children lead, adults following behind’.

The song was written about 20 years ago for the Leeds International Jerusalem Song Contest, which invited original music and lyrics on a theme related to Jerusalem, the Holy City, but its lyrics are still current as tomorrow’s headlines, that’s why Sam recently decided to post it on YouTube for everyone to hear his message of

peace — and hear him out.

At the age of 70 (“And this is where you tell me ‘you don’t look like it’!” he jokes), Sam would like to professionally record his 100+ musical compositions using exciting arrangements (“mine are very basic,” he admits) and with a fresh voice, as his own is not what it used to be.

That’s why he is calling out for musicians and sponsors to set his

project on the road, as a legacy to the Jewish and wider community, because music is his best talent.

“I have published books about bilingualism, hypnosis and learning disabilities in my career. I have written tens of articles for learned journals, but composing music and lyrics is my forte and my sanctuary,” says Sam, former editor of the quarterly glossy magazine Kesher, circulated within the local Jewish Community.

“Since a young age, I had a good ear for music, so I never disciplined myself to learn how to read and write scores when learning to play the piano. Now I play the keyboard, guitar and mouth organ, mainly by ear. In my teenage years, I was a founder member of The Melody Makers, one of the first boy bands in Gibraltar”.

He considers his abilities as a very special and unique gift from above. “All of a sudden, I may hear the music in my head; a bit like Mozart told Austria’s Emperor Joseph II and his court composer Salieri when challenged to produce his musical scores ...

It feels like it is coming from the stratosphere and it is suddenly revealed to me anywhere, on the bus, in the shower ...”

Poetry surely is his strength, as he seeks to convey poignant messages with his lyrics and often employs ‘cryptic phrases’, like ‘the writing in your walls’ mentioned in City of Peace (Ha’ir Shalom), the song that scooped second prize at the 1991 LIJSC. The verse quoted here refers to the prayer notes slotted in the cracks between the stones of the Western Wall.

Another song, We shall Never Lose Jerusalem came first in the previous contest. Again, lines such as “we have six million reasons, deep in our hearts they’ll live on: their memory lays witness to our claim” express the poignancy of his message.

Sam lived in Birmingham at the time, so he was a habitué of the Leeds contest scene, where Shalom Salaam was entered too.

He recalls a curious anecdote about its performance there: “I had asked the stage manager to start the first notes, which were a deep helicopter-like hum, louder than the rest of the music. The volume therefore, had to be reduced as soon as the vocals started.

That didn’t happen though, so I leapt backstage to check what was happening — only to find the stage manager dancing with her husband on the notes of my song. Unfortunately, the audience

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art for all missed the best part of it.”

Sam can comfortably write lyrics in English, Spanish, French and Hebrew, depending on the occasion. Most of his Hebrew songs are inspired by some verse from the Bible, repeated over and over in different riffs and musical phrases, typical of Hassidic music, but often they are complex reflections on life, like Ata Barata ha’Olam (You created the World) which asks why the Almighty created the wondrous things listed in Genesis, but He seems not be to creating peace in the World.

He has written a lot of music for special events such as weddings and Bar Mitzvas, especially for his own children’s weddings. The song he composed for his eldest daughter Judith’s wedding included verses in Hebrew, Spanish and English.

Sadly, not all his songs are devised for happy occasions, and his strongest lyrics were written in memory of loved ones who have passed away.

Madre is a Ladino poem to express gratitude to his mother: “Children seldom thank their parents during their parents’ lifetime,” Sam says about the inspiration behind it, “and they acknowledge their sacrifice only when it is too late.”

Even more sentimental is the bolero Cuando hables con Diós which he wrote in memory of his eldest brother Isaac: “The music came to me immediately, but the Spanish lyrics took one year to complete, because every verse I wrote hurt so much that I would burst into tears. In the text, I put myself in his widow’s position and try to imagine what it felt like for her.”

But music is not the only thing he has created. His sorrowful experiences of strict Jewish bereavement rituals or Shiva (literally ‘seven’, with reference to the week during which the mourners sit on the floor) prompted him to write a cathartic black comedy titled The Shiva House.

This had followed his collaboration with a friend, the late barrister and consummate thespian Ray Rosenberg, in penning two original musicals which for Sam

co-scripted and composed all the music and lyrics. “I had composed several songs already and I figured I could well string together a musical. It turned out more testing than expected, but we made it, and in three months we produced Esther – The Musical at the Solihull Library Theatre near Birmingham, raising thousands of pounds for charities.”

Sam’s opus magnum required hefty historical research to make it as accurate as possible. “When you are told Queen Esther story in primary school, it is presented as an isolated episode in Jewish history, but we placed it in its historical context and explored its full significance and ramifications.”

Sam and Ray followed Esther with Storytime, staged at the Birmingham Hippodrome for charity as well. It was a more secular musical in which they challenged the facts presented in fairy tales: “What if Red Riding Hood was not such a nice girl and resented her Grandma for making her run errands across the scary woods instead of being free to play with her friends? She might therefore, have convinced the wolf to eat her?

We also cross-fertilised stories.

For example, we had Tinkerbelle falling in love with the giant from Jack and the beanstalk.”

Sam would like to see Storytime, with a cast of 18 children and 20 adults, produced in Gibraltar soon, which is why he is calling upon local drama groups to work with him on this fun musical.

In the meantime, he continues composing new songs as the inspiration takes him and hopes to cut an album one day.

He gets his daughter Leah, his sternest and most objective critic, to ‘vet’ all his work before including it in his vast repertoire.

She is his favourite duet partner as she has got a ‘beautiful voice’ and amazing musical appreciation.

She recently suggested he post his songs in YouTube and little by little he is attracting his share of positive comments. They are also available on his newly launched Facebook page Gibculture which aims to publicise local original talents in the arts, music, photography and the like. n

His sorrowful experiences of strict Jewish bereavement rituals or Shiva prompted him to write a cathartic black comedy titled The Shiva House

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What’s On: December

The Incantus choir Northern Lights concert takes place at St Andrew’s Church on 2nd December

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2nd December Northern Lights - Gjeilo and other Festive Classics. Incantus presents Missa Sancti Nicolai - Haydn at St Andrew’s Church, Governor’s Parade 7.30pm. Tickets: £10 on sale from Gib Sun Club and The Imperial Newsagency

vintage items, retro and modern collectables, hand-crafted items and more, home-made seasonal refreshments in the lounge, free wifi with every coffee shop purchase. All proceeds to the Church Restoration Fund Stalls £10: table and cloth provided. Enquiries please call 540 23 166

2nd December - 6th December Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph & The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat presented

by Stylos Dance Studio at the John Mackintosh Hall from 8pm (Saturday 6th December Matinee starts at 3.30pm). Tickets £12 from the John Mackintosh Hall.

8th December Harmonics Choir - Our Christmas Story, Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned, Main Street. Tickets from Sacarello’s Newsagents, Main Street or Imperial Newsagents, Main Street

6th December Crafts and Collectors’ Fair, St Andrew’s Church, Governor’s Parade 10am - 2pm.

Lead soldiers, doll’s house items, silver, jewellery, books and puzzles, stamps and coins, Gibraltar memorabilia, antique and

11th December Carols by Candlelight at Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, Cathedral Square 8pm. Tickets £12 from choir members on Tuesday and Thursday at the Cathedral at 7.30pm, or call: 54831000. Tickets include mulled wine, mince pies and a gift from Santa for the children.

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19th December Gibraltar Botanic Gardens Tour — seeds, seedlings and cuttings: a visit to the plant nursery — 10.30 am George Don Gates, The Alameda, Gibraltar Botanic Gardens. £5.00 adults, children free of charge. For further information Tel: 20041235

26th December Boxing Day Polar Bear Swim — Catalan Bay. The swim also raises money for different charities. Those who brave the cold water are treated to mince pies and brandy along with the annual Polar Bear certificate.

31th December to 1st January New Year’s Eve Celebrations 2014.

Gibraltar’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are held at Casemates Square with a happy ambience to welcome in the New Year, whilst also providing a safe and fun environment for the whole family to enjoy.The perfect place to welcome in the New Year.

Having A Rojo Christmas Pictured below is the first Christmas Party of the year at Cafe Rojo on Irish Town. We are now in full festive mode and restaurants are packed with office parties and groups of friends having fun and celebrating this special time of year. Remember to book your table early at your favourite venue! n

Raj’s Curry House Fancy a festive curry? If you do, you will be pleased to know that Raj’s Curry House on Queensway Quay will be open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. What better treat to take a break from the turkey and sprouts and instead indulge in the spicy and delicious.

Reserve you table on 200 46993 or pick up a take-away and relax at home in your new Christmas jim-jams.

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appetite

e to wher drink eat & the on k Roc

restaurants

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 Sleek modern comfort in this relaxing little restaurant. Brunch (10am-12pm) 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: Tues - Fri 10am- late, Saturday lunch 12-3pm, afternoon drinks & desserts, dinner 7-10pm. Closed Sundays & Mondays.

Cafe Rojo 54 Irish Town. Tel: 200 51738

Casa Pepe

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.

Casa Pepe, 18 Queensway Quay Marina, Tel/Fax: 200 46967 Email: casa.pepe@gmail.com.

Visit: www.gibtour.com/casapepe.

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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 Nunos Italian Restaurant and Terrace Caleta Hotel, Catalan Bay Tel: 200 76501 Email: reservations@caletahotel.gi

chorizo, black pudding, egg and pancetta) and pizzas (eg: Quatto Stagioni topped with mozzarella, 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

Sacarello Coffee Co

Located in a converted coffee warehouse, and famous for its great fresh ground coffee, homemade cakes/afternoon tea, plus full 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. Holds popular art exhibitions with the Sacarello collection and guest artists. Very busy at office lunchtimes (1-2pm).

Sacarello's is available for parties and functions in the evenings.

Open: 9am-7.30pm Mondays - Fridays. 9am-3pm Saturdays Sacarello Coffee Co. 57 Irish Town. Tel: 200 70625

Get Listed!

Do you own a restaurant, café, or bar in Gibraltar?

Get your business listed here

CALL 200 77748 for details GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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food & drink

directory Get Listed!

Do you own a restaurant, café, or bar in Gibraltar?

Get your business listed here

CALL 200 77748 for details 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 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 Just Desserts 1st Floor ICC. Tel: 200 48014

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 piaza. 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 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 2014

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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.

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

Oasis Eatery

Located in Governor’s Parade, just across from the Elliot Hotel, and offers hot/cold 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 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.

Piccadilly Gardens Rosia Road, Tel: 20075758

e to wher drink & eat the on k Roc

informal food 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 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.

The Tasty Bite 59a Irish Town. Tel: 200 78220 Fax: 200 74321

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

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food & drink

directory 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

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

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 27 Cannon Lane. Tel: 200 77288

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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 Visit: www.gibraltararms.com

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 Jury’s Café & Wine Bar

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

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bars & pubs 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 b a r, j u s t 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

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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

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) Queensway Quay Marina, Tel: 200 61118

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 Different 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

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 •• DECEMBER DECEMBER 2014 2014 GIBRALTAR

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This month we say a sad farewell to the Gibraltar Magazine’s wine columnist of many years, Peter Rodney, who passed away during November. He has entertained readers for many years with his witty column, and our thoughts are with his family at this time.

We welcome Andrew Licudi AIWS (Associate member of the Wine and Spirits Institute), Sherry Educator Consejo Regulador de Jerez, who will be taking up the challenge of educating us about wines in the coming issues.

Wine has been Andrew’s main interest for many years, and after studying for four years he graduated with a WSET Diploma, going on to write articles for British wine critic Jancis Robinson.

Andrew’s main areas of interest are Burgundy, Alsace, Bordeaux, Northern Rhone, Loire, Champagne, Germany, Port Wines, Jerez, Rioja.

Andrew (pictured below) is a member of a wine group to which he was invited to become a member of after a 20 year wait.

The Perfect Partners

words | Andrew Licudi

One of the pleasures I look forward to at this time of year is fantasising about the wines I will be having for Christmas lunch. I always seem to start backwards as I am particularly fond of dessert wines and this year we hope to end our meal with a vintage port which is liked by everyone in our family.

Vintage port is not made every year but only in good years when a “vintage is declared”. Following pressing and fermentation the wines are stored in wood for a couple of years only and then bottled.

The consumer is expected to age the wine in bottle until ready to drink, which could be 20 or more years, at his or hers expense!

Quality tends to be high amongst most producers with Taylors, Grahams, Nieport, Dows etc topping the list.

If you can’t be bothered with decanting, as you need to with vintage port due to the sediment,

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then go for an LBV (Late Bottled Vintage) which is made in undeclared years and matured in wood for five years or longer and then filtered and bottled. This is a cheaper alternative to vintage port but one which can still prove delicious with your cheese or pudding.

With the turkey we are planning two reds one French and one Spanish. If nothing else it makes an interesting conversation with some preferring the former and some the latter.

For the Spanish I have selected Bodegas Ochoa Reserva from Na-

varra. This is great producer from a region which has more common with France than with its immediate neighbour Rioja. Tasted blind Navarra wines can be mistaken for French and there was a time when Navarra supplied wines to Burgundy so that in poor vintages the Navarra wines could be passed off as the more expensive Burgundy. In fact it is said that at one time the biggest producer in Burgundy was the railway station!

If you can’t get hold of Ochoa (Anglo Hispano) try Guelbenzu from Stagnettos. This producer, possibly my favourite Spanish

producer, came into existence largely to supply wines to France in poor vintages and until now has retained its French character.

I say until now as the Guelbenzu family sold out in 2009 and as we know the character and quality wine comes both from the land and the hand of the winemaker. Whether the wine will remain truly special remains to be seen. I note that Stagnettos are selling the 2007 vintage so I have already stashed away a few bottles — just in case!

Neither Ochoa nor Guelbenzu are expensive and I consider these

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wine column two producers to be “undiscovered” unlike my other red choice.

For this I have earmarked a bottle of Chateaux Gazin 2004, my son’s favourite from Pomerol. This unfortunately is not available in Gib but available from wine merchants in UK. I will be hopefully writing about clarets and Pomerol in the future so I will leave my comments on the likes of Gazin until then.

It’s becoming traditional for Sandra and I to cook a starter of scallops with black pudding as our contribution to Christmas lunch.

This takes only a few minutes to cook and is quite effortless! With the scallops I will be going for a Sancerre (the Loire’s famously variable pungent, grassy wine and my daughter-in-law’s favourite).

Sancerre was a hit in the ’70s and became the quintessential restaurant white wine in the bistros of Paris. Sancerre is made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc and Morisson’s should have some examples plus “look alikes” from New Zealand some of which, like Cloudy Bay, at one time becoming cult wines with some lucky consumers allocated a few bottles per year!

I have seen Cloudy Bay in Morissons (only once) but if not there should be plenty of other old world and new world examples.

If new world Sauvignon Blanc is your choice then expect a big mouthful of lychees, passion fruit, grass. If you go for Old World then expect something more muted, less exuberant.

Another white which would be on my Christmas list is white burgundy, a few examples of which are available in Gib. Burgundy is one of the few wine regions in the world where demand is increasing partly due to Asian collectors but mostly due to the tiny quantity of wines produced. Quality can be variable

Wines tasted this month Guelbenzu Evo 2007 Very dark almost black.

Intense on the nose with black fruits and balanced oak.

Quite delicious with a medium length finish but I can’t help feeling this will improve even further over the next 3 to 5 years.

7.5/10 Taylors Port 1970 This wine just explodes in the mouth. Complex, delicious, wonderful finish.

9/10

though good or exceptional white examples represent the pinnacle of the Chardonnay grape and whilst they can seriously damage your wallet they can prove to be an unforgettable experience.

Look out for the wines of the still affordable St Aubin region of burgundy not currently sought after by millionaires (for the time being!). Good examples can be had for £25 and upwards and can represent great value for money.

The chardonnay grape in itself has not much character so wines tend to reflect the land and climate and explains why a small plot in Burgundy can produce exceptional wine whilst exactly the same grape only a few metres away can only produce good wine at best. And of course these wines should not be confused with the mass produced, over oaked examples of the southern hemisphere which gave birth to the misguided saying “anything but chardonnay”.

Sancerre was a hit in the ’70s and became the quintessential restaurant white wine in the bistros of Paris And finally for the pre-lunch drink what else but a sparkling wine. Loads to choose from here from Cava to Champagne to Prosecco. For these occasions I tend to stick to Champagne and if I can I will go for what’s called in the trade “ small grower champagne”.

In Champagne, by law, the grand marques like Moet, Bollinger, Taitinger etc are not allowed to own more than 20 % of the Champagne vineyards. This is done to ensure that the large houses will have to buy grapes from hundreds of small producers. However in fairly recent times some of these growers are going for it alone and producing small quantities of very good and characterful wines. As their marketing budgets are non-existent and their prices remain modest it has opened up a happy hunting ground for Champagne lovers. Unfortunately we don’t have these available locally but perhaps some of our wine merchants will one day start importing examples of these fantastic, not yet fashionable wines.

I wish you all a wonderful festive season and a very happy New Year. n

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Tues-Fri 10am - late Sat lunch 12pm-3pm Afternoon drinks & desserts Dinner 7pm-10pm Closed Sun & Mon

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d n u o r � ow� � This page: Music Festival goers. Opposite: National Day fun!

Gibraltar’s Festival of Lights when great family entertainment is followed by the switching on of the Chrtistmas lights. (photos this page: Derek Booth)

Can you believe that we are already in the 12th month of the year and 2014 is almost over! Yes, Christmas is just days away and the eight days of Hanukkah start on 16th December. The lights are on on Main Street making the dark evenings feel warm and bright. Shops and restaurants have their winter decorations up, the festive tunes are playing and there really is a feeling of good cheer in the air.

The daily Christmas fair at the Chatham Counterguard strip is open Monday to Friday from 5pm - 8pm, Saturdays from 10am - 4pm and Sundays from 11am - 2pm. A great place to get your mulled wines, preserves, cakes, gifts, sweets and lots lots more.

There are some great choir events coming up starting on 2nd December with the Incantus choir at the St Andrew’s Church, followed by the Harmonics Choir on 8th December at the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned, then Carols by Candleight at the Holy Trinity Cathe-

Photos this page: a selection from the Three Kings Cavalcade

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photo: Derek Booth

photo: Derek Booth (photos this page: Caroline Beriro unless marked)

dral on 11th December. Mulled wine and mince pies will no doubt make the carols even more inviting.

All you hardy souls who don’t mind a bracing winter swim will love being involved with the Polar Bear Swim on Boxing Day (26th December) at Catalan Bay. If you brave the cold water you will be rewarded with mince pies and brandy to make it all worth while!

Before Father Christmas arrives in Gibraltar on 25th December we will be enjoying seeing everyone celebrating with staff parties and gatherings of friends in Gibraltar’s restaurants and bars. Book your favourite spot at this time of year if you are heading out for a family dinner. Don’t forget Raj’s Curry House is open Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day - what a relief we can all have a break from the Christmas fare!

Well that’s it for 2014 - this year has sped by with all the great events such as last month’s Literary Festival, September’s Music Festival, Summer Nights and Calentita, it seems we will be equally busy in 2015. What a year to look forward to — it is just one big social whirl!

photo: Derek Booth

Happy Christmas and happy Hanukkah to all our readers... see you on Main Street for the last few weeks of 2014.

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Clubs & Activities Arts & Crafts Cross Stitch Club: John Mackintosh Hall, 1st Floor, Mon 6-8pm, fee £1.

Gibraltar Arts & Crafts Association: Offers a variety of classes & workshops for children and adults Mon - Fri 3.30-7pm, Sat 2-3pm. For more info call Tel: 20073865.

Knit and Natter Group: Tues 11am-3pm, Thurs 5.30-7.30pm, at Arts & Crafts Shop, Casemates balcony. Free to join and refreshments provided. Tel: 20073865.

The Arts Centre: Prince Edward’s Road, Art classes for children and adults. For more info call Tel: 200 79788.

The Fine Arts Association Gallery: At Casemates. Open 10am-2pm, 3-6pm Mon-Fri, Sat 11am-1pm.

The Gibraltar Decorative and Fine Arts Society: Affiliated to UK NADFAS meets third Wed of month at 6.30pm at Eliott Hotel - lecturers & experts from the UK talk on Art etc. Contact: Chairman Claus Olesen 200 02024 claus.olesen@sghambros.com.

Membership Ian Le Breton 200 76173 ilebreton@SovereignGroup.com Board Games Calpe Chess Club & Junior Club: meets in Studio 1, John Mackintosh Hall 5-7pm (junior chess) 8-11pm (Calpe Chess) on Tues. Entrance Free.

The Gibraltar Scrabble Club: Meets on Tuesdays at 3pm. Tel: Vin 20073660 or Roy 20075995. All welcome.

The Subbuteo Club: Meets in Charles Hunt Room, John Mackintosh Hall.

Dance Adult Dance Classes: Wed evenings at Kings Bastion Leisure Centre from 7-8.30pm. Contact Dilip on 200 78714.

Art in Movement: Classes for children Street Dance, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Pilates, Capoeira, Judo & Ju-jitsu. At Wellington Front from 4pm onwards. Tel: 54005785 or 54000027 or visit www. artinmovement.net Ballet, Modern Theatre, Contemporary & Hip Hop: Classes held weekly at Danza Academy. Training from 3 years to Adult Advanced. 68/2 Prince Edward’s Rd Tel: 54027111.

DSA Old & Modern Sequence Dancing: Sessions at Central Hall Fri 8.30pm, beginners 8pm. Tel: 200 78901 or tony@gibraltar.gi Everybody welcome.

Modern & Latin American Sequence Dancing: Mon at Catholic Community Centre 8pm. Tel. Andrew 200 78901.

Modern, Contemporary, Lyrical, Flexibility, Hip Hop & Dance Theatre: Classes weekly at Urban Dance Studio, 2 Jumpers Bastion. Tel: Yalta 54012212 or Jolene 54015125.

Rockkickers Linedance Club: Governor’s Meadow 1st School. www.rockkickers.com Salsa Gibraltar Salsa: Classes on Tues at Laguna Social Club, Laguna Estate.

Beginners 7-8.30pm. Intermediates 8.30-10pm. Tel: Mike 54472000 or info@ salsagibraltar.com Zumba Classes at Urban Dance: Jumpers Bastion, with certified instructor Tyron Walker. Tel: 20063959 or 54012212 or Twitter: @UrbanDanceGib 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. New members welcome.

Tel: 200 44643.

Garrison Library Tours: at 11am on Fri, duration 1h 50mins. Tel: 20077418.

History Alive: Historical re-enactment parade. Main Street up to Casemates Square every Sat at 12 noon.

Music Gibraltar National Choir and Gibraltar Junior National Choir: Rehearses at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Tel: 54831000.

The Calpe Band: Mon & Wed. For musicians of brass/woodwind instruments of all standards/ages/abilities 7-9pm. Tel: 54017070 or thecalpebnd@gmail.com Jazz Nights: Thurs at 8pm at O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel. Tel: 200 70500.

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Outdoor Activities The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award: Exciting self-development programme for young people worldwide equipping them with life skills to make a difference to themselves, their communities and the world. Contact Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Montagu Bastion, Line Wall Road. Tel: 200 59818.

Quizzes The Lounge: Friendly quiz on Sun from 8pm on quayside at Queensway Quay.

The Clipper: Quiz nights on Tues at 8pm.

Social Clubs Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes: (Gibraltar Province) meets RAOB Club, Jumpers Bastion on these days: Provincial Grand Lodge, 1st Mon/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, Wed (fortnightly) 7pm. Por Favor 9444, Wed (fortnightly) 7pm.

Farewell 10001, Tues 8.30pm. Goldacre 10475 (social) last Fri/month 8pm. www. raob.org Special Interest Clubs & Societies Creative Writers Group: Meets Tues at Eliott Hotel bar at 8pm, aimed at learning to write fiction/non-fiction, for pleasure or publication. Tel: Carla 54006696.

Gibraltar Book Club: For info Tel: Parissa 54022808.

Gibraltar Horticultural Society: meets 1st Thurs of month 6pm, J.M. 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. Tel: 54008426 or gibphilosophy@ live.co.uk Gibraltar Photographic Society: Meets on Mon at 7.30pm, Wellington Front. Basic courses, competitions etc.

Harley Davidson Owners’ Club: www.hdcgib.com Lions Club of Gibraltar: Meets 2nd and 4th Wed of the month at 50 Line Wall Road. www.lionsclubofgibraltar.com St John’s Ambulance: Adult Volunteers Training Sessions from 8-10pm on Tues.

Tel: 200 77390 or training@stjohn.gi The Royal British Legion: For info or 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.

Sports Supporters Clubs Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Club: Meets at Star Bar, Parliament Lane, when Spurs games are televised - call prior to matches to check game is televised. Great food for a lunch if KO is early or an early supper if the game is later. Tel: 56280000.

Gibraltar Arsenal Supporters Club: Meets match days upstairs at Time Out Café, Eurotowers. Gooners of all ages welcome. For info/news visit www.

GibGooners.com Tel: 54010681 (Bill) or 54164000 (John).

Gibraltar Hammers: Meets 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 gibraltarhammers@hotmail.com Sports & Fitness Artistic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Artistic Gymnastics Association. Tel: Angela 200 70611 or Sally 200 74661.

Athletics: Gibraltar Amateur Athletics Association holds competitions through 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 BWF& BE) junior club/tournaments, senior leagues/ recreational. Visit www.badmintongibraltar. com for info.

Ballet Barre Fitness: Adults on Wed 10am & Fri 6pm at The Arts Centre. Tel: 54033465 or pilatesgibraltar@hotmail.com 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.

Boxing: Gibraltar Amateur Boxing Association (member IABA) gym on Rosia Rd. Over 13s welcome. Tuition with ex-pro boxer Ernest Victory. Tel: 56382000 or 20042788.

Cheerleading: Gibraltar Cheerleading Association, girls and boys of all ages.

Chearleading and street cheer/hip hop at Victoria Stadium. Recreational / competitive levels. Tel: 58008338.

Canoeing: Gibraltar Canoeing Association.

Tel: Nigel 200 52917 or Arturo 54025033.

Cricket: Gibraltar Cricket, National Governing Body & Associate Member of ICC. Governs International & Domestic Men’s, Women’s, Boys’ & Girls’ cricketleague & cup competitions and in-school coaching. www.gibraltarcricket.com, info@ gibcricket.com, Twitter: @Gibraltar_Crick Cycling: Gibraltar Cycling Association various cycling tours. Tel: Uriel 200 79359.

Darts: Gibraltar Darts Association (full member of WDF & affiliate of BDO). We cater for men, ladies & youth who take part in leagues, competitions and a youth academy for the correct development of the sport. Tel: Darren 54027171 Secretary, Alex 54021672 Youth Rep, Justin 54022622 President. Email: info@ gibraltardarts.com Football: Gibraltar Football Association - leagues/competitions for all ages OctoberMay. Futsal in summer, Victoria Stadium.

Tel: 20042941 www.gibraltarfa.com Gaelic Football Club (Irish sport): Males any age welcome. Get fit, play sport, meet new friends, travel around Spain/Europe and play an exciting and competitive sport.

Training every Wed on the MOD pitch on Devil’s Tower Road at 7pm. Andalucia League with Seville and Marbella to play matches home and away monthly. Visit www.gibraltargaels.com or secretary. gibraltar.europe@gaa.ie Hockey: Gibraltar Hockey Association (members FIH & EHF) high standard competitions/training for adults/juniors. Tel: Eric 200 74156 or Peter 200 72730 for info.

Iaido: teaches the Japanese sword (Katana), classes every week. www. iaidogibraltar.com Iwa Dojo, Kendo & Jujitsu: Classes every week, for kids/adults. Tel: 54529000 www. iwadojo.com or dbocarisa@iwadojo.com Judo and Ju-jitsu: Gibraltar Budokai Judo Association UKMAF recognised instructors for all ages and levels at Budokai Martial Arts Centre, Wellington Front. Tel: Charlie 20043319.

Ju-jitsu: Gibraltar Ju-jitsu Academy training and grading for juniors/seniors held during evening at 4 North Jumpers Bastion. Tel: 54011007.

Karate-do Shotokai: Gibraltar Karate-do Shotokai Association - Karate training for junior & seniors at Clubhouse, 41H Town Range. Tel: 57479000.

Karate: Shotokan karate midday Mon beginners, other students 8.30pm. Thurs 8.30pm. In town at temporary dojo or privately by arrangement. Contact Frankie 54038127 or info@fhmedia.co.uk.

Motorboat Racing: Gibraltar Motorboat Racing Association Tel: Wayne 200 75211.

Netball: Gibraltar Netball Association (affiliated FENA & IFNA) competitions through year, senior/junior leagues. Tel: 20041874.

Petanque: Gibraltar Petanque Association.

New members welcome. Tel: 54002652.

Pilates: Intermediate Pilates: Tues & Fri 9.30am, beginners Pilates: Fri 10.50am at the Shotokai Centre, 41H Town Range. Tel: 54033465 or pilatesgibraltar@hotmail.com Gibraltar Pool Association: (Member of the EBA) home and away league played on Thurs through out the season, various tournaments played on a yearly basis both nationally and internationally, Tel: 56925000 gibpool@gibtelecom.net, www.gib8ball.com Rhythmic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Rhythmic Gymnastics Association runs sessions for 4 years of age and upwards, weekday evenings. Tel: 56000772 or Sally 200

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74661.

Rugby: Gibraltar Rugby Football Union training for Colts (14+), seniors and veterans. Play in Andalusia 1st Division.

Tel: 200 72185.

Sailing: Gibraltar Yachting Association junior/senior competitive programme (April - Oct) Tel: Royal Gibraltar Yacht Club at 200 78897.

Shooting: Gibraltar Shooting Federation.

Rifle, Europa Point Range (Stephanie 54020760); Clay pigeon, East Side (Harry 200 74354); Pistol, near Royal Naval Hospital (Louis 54095000).

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: 56262000 / 54000068, or info@gibraltarsnooker.com Squash: Gibraltar Squash Association, Squash Centre, South Pavilion Road (members WSF & ESF). Adult and junior tournaments and coaching. Tel: 200 44922.

Sub-Aqua: Gibraltar Sub-Aqua Association taster dives for over 14s, tuition from local clubs. Voluntary sports clubs: Noah’s Dive Club and 888s Dive Club. Tel: 54991000.

Commercial sports diving schools available.

Swimming: Gibraltar Amateur Swimming Association (member FINA & LEN) opens its pool for leisure swimming. Junior lessons, squad for committed swimmers, water polo. Pool open Mon&Thurs: 7–10am, 12.30–4pm. Tue, Wed, Fri: 7–10am, 12:30–5pm. Sat: 3–5pm. Sun: closed. Mon to Fri from 5-6pm groups training. 6-7.30 squad training. Mon, Wed, Fri 7.30-8.30 swimming joggers, Tues & Thurs 7:30-8:30 junior Water polo. Mon, Tues & Thurs 8:30-10pm Adult water polo.

Tel: 200 72869.

Table Tennis: Gibraltar Table Tennis Association training and playing sessions, Victoria Stadium, Tues 6-10pm and Thurs 8-11pm with coaching and league competition. Tel: 56070000 or 20060720.

Taekwondo: Gibraltar Taekwondo Association classes/gradings Tel: Mari 20044142 or www.gibraltartaekwondo.org Tai Chi: Tai Chi for children and adults.

Mon-Thur 6.30-8pm at Kings Bastion Leisure Centre and Sat 9am-1pm at the Yoga Centre, 33 Town Range. Tel: Dilip 200 78714.

Tennis: Gibraltar Tennis Association, Sandpits Tennis Club. Junior development programme. Courses for adults, leagues and competitions. Tel: Louis 200 77035.

Ten-Pin Bowling: At King’s Bowl in the King’s Bastion Leisure Centre every day.

Gibraltar Ten Pin Bowling (members FIQ & WTBA) leagues, training for juniors and squad. Tel: 200 52442.

Triathlon: Hercules Triathlon Club organises swimming, running and cycling training sessions and competes regularly in Andalucia and Internationally. Contact chris.walker@york.gi or Facebook “Hercules Triathlon Club” Volleyball: Gibraltar Volleyball Association training, indoor leagues, beach volleyball competition, 3 v 3 competition, juniors and seniors. Tel: 54001973 or 54885000.

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: Meet at Ince’s Hall Theatre Complex, 310 Main Street. Tel: 20042237.

Trafalgar Theatre Group: Meets 2nd Wed of month, Garrison Library 8pm.

All welcome.

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photo call

Support Groups ADHD & Learning Difficulties (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Meetings at Fellowship Bookshop Catholic Community Centre, Line Wall Road. Coffee, chat, books and resources on display.

Tel: 54027551 or 54014476.

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 & Me Breastfeeding Support Group those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have breastfed to get together for coffee, chat / support. Partners and older children welcome. Meets 1st Wed / 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. Free, confidential, impartial.

COPE Support group for people with Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia or Rheumatoid Arthritis. Formed to ease challenges of individuals, families and care partner.

Meetings at Catholic Community Centre Book Shop at 7.30pm first Thursday of each month. 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 grandchildren. Tel: 200 46536, 200 76618, or 54019602.

Psychological Support Group, PO Box 161, Nazareth House. Meet Tuesdays at 7pm, Fridays 8pm. Tel: 200 51623.

SSAFA Forces Help Gibraltar, a UK charity, to assist serving and ex-Service 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).

Photo L to R: Pte Hicks (Awarded best PT)Pte Holdsworth, Pte Mogotsi, Pte Buist and Pte Abbaciano.

FIVE NEW RG RECRUITS PASS OUT IN CATTERICK Five recruits from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment passed out at the Infantry Training Centre (ITC) in Catterick last week.

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Private Abbaciano (20), Private Buist (18), Private Hicks (20), Private Holdsworth (17) and Private Mogotsi (23) have all successfully completed their 26 week Combat Infantryman Course.

All infantry soldiers in the British Army must complete the course which teaches the soldier a number of skills from war-fighting tactics through to ceremonial drill. It is designed to ensure that the newly qualified solider is fully prepared to join their chosen unit and is ready for operational deployment.

Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Ivor Lopez attended the passing out parade,

he said: “I am always immensely proud of our soldiers who have passed out from Catterick; the Combat Infantryman’s Course is a very demanding six months and during that period they develop into self-confident and disciplined individuals who are physically fit, well-motivated and equipped with the necessary skills and fighting qualities to take part in military operations.”

One recruit from this intake has done especially well with Private Hicks being awarded Best PT. The recruits will now return to Gibraltar where they will undergo driver training and take some well-earned leave. n

EasyJet Bristol Gibraltar route EasyJet, the UK’s largest airline is to launch year round flights from Bristol to Gibraltar starting in Summer 2015. The airline, which already flies from London Gatwick to Gibraltar, will launch flights from Bristol on 19th April 2015.

This new service will open up Gibraltar as a new and exciting destination for the South West of England.

Shaun Browne the Aviation Director of Bristol Airport, Ali Gayward of EasyJet, Minister Neil Costa and Chief Executive of the GTB Nicky Guerrero

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information 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.

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.

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 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 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 2014 Gibraltar & United Kingdom New Year’s Day Wed 1 January Commonwealth Day* Mon 10 March Good Friday Fri 18 April Easter Monday Mon 21 April Worker’s Memorial Day Mon 28 April May Day Thurs 1 May Spring Bank Holiday Mon 26 May Queen’s Birthday Mon 16 June Late Summer Bank Holiday Mon 25 August Gibraltar National Day* Wed 10 September Christmas Day Thurs 25 December Boxing Day Fri 26 December *Gibraltar only

Gibraltar Postcode - GX11 1AA 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

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Emergency Services 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.

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 Emergency Nos: .............Tel: (5) 5026 / (5) 3598

The Gibraltar Magazine is published and produced by Guide Line Promotions Ltd, La Bayuca, 21 Turnbull’s Lane, Gibraltar. Tel/Fax: (+350) 200 77748

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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.

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The Gibraltar Magazine is published and produced by Guide Line Promotions Ltd, La Bayuca, 21 Turnbull’s Lane, Gibraltar. Tel/Fax: (+350) 200 77748

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