Euro Weekly News - Costa de Almeria 13 - 19 February 2014 Issue 1493

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ISSUE NO. 1493

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Red cross donation THE Posidonia association has handed over a donation of €3,000 to the Red Cross. The money was raised at a market held during the fifth Posidonia Festival.

Snow trip YOUNGSTERS in Adra went on a weekend of snowboarding and skiing organised by the Youth Council Department. This is the 10th consecutive year that the trip has taken place.

13 - 19 FEBRUARY 2014

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Football fan throws a dog at the referee A MAN from Olula del Rio has been charged for attempting to attack a referee by throwing a dog at him.

He was watching a football match between Comarca del Marmol y La Cañada Atletico at the

Lucky strike THE province continues to be lucky with lotteries this year with the ONCE lottery leaving €100,000 in Huercal de Almeria. The money was shared by two syndicates.

Brain drain MORE than 70,000 Almerienses left the province last year to find work in other parts of Spain or to go abroad.

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SLEEPY: The fishing village of Villaricos.

Juan Jose Rodriguez stadium in the town. The referee approached the benches towards the end of the game and the man took the opportunity to grab hold of a dog belonging to another spectator and throw it at him. The dog fell to the floor from a height of two metres without hitting the intended target. It appeared to be hurt and its owner began fighting with the man who had thrown it. The Guardia Civil had to break them up. The dog-thrower has performance in Spain in been charged with animal 2014. abuse. The event has been arranged for the weekend of Friday August 8 and Saturday August 9. The orrganisers said they want to transform Andalucia into the epicentre of the music world.

Village faces invasion

UP to 60,000 people will descend on the fishing village of Villaricos when an electronic music festival makes its return. Dreambeach Villaricos, which last year attracted more than 60,000 people in two days, is cranking up the machinery for another year.

The first advance poster for 2014 includes leading figures from the world stage with Snoop Dogg already announced on the bill. Carl Cox will be there with a special three-hour set and there will also be an exclusive performance from Chicago DJs Krewella, their only

Pulled up for doing 213kph The Guardia Civil intercepted a driver who was travelling at 213 kilometres per hour on the Mediterranean motorway (A-7) as he was passing by the town of Roquetas de Mar. The 41-year-old driver, identified only with the initials JEL, and a resident of Barcelona, was travelling at high speed in a BMW X-5 and was detected by a static radar. The agents of the Guardia Civil supporting the radar a mile further down the road, pulled the driver over and told him that his vehicle’s speed had been recorded at 213 kilometres an hour. The stretch of road he was travelling on had a speed limit of 120 kilometres per hour.

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THIS WEEK IN

EWN News 1 - 16

Finance 21 - 26 ON THE AGENDA: Suggestions to promote Almeria Airport.

New board to boost airport

THE Junta de Andalucia’s Councillor for Tourism and Trade, Rafael Rodriguez, chaired the founding meeting of the Provincial Bureau for Almeria Airport last week. The new body brings together representatives from various institutions to hear suggestions and seek measures to boost activity and connections. Among the suggestions was the importance of improving connections with Madrid and Barcelona, as well as

attracting major international tour companies. He stressed that in 2013 tourism grew in Almeria and is expected to increase by 15 per cent this year with new agreements with flight operators to increase air links and tourist flows. During the winter, from October to April the airport goes into hibernation with just seven destinations available. In years gone by there used to be regular winter flights between several UK destinations.

Letters 27

Leapy Lee 28

Daily TV 34

Time out 44 - 45

Classifieds 73 - 74

Sport 79 - 80

NEWS Pleased sir ALMERIA maths teacher Juan Jose Ramirez has been selected for the title of Expert Innovative Teacher by Microsoft out of more than 20,000 teachers around the world. Mining museum THE town of Beires in La Alpujarra is to open an open air museum which will retrace the old iron mines in the town.

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Official, it’s a world record THE town of Almocita is very proud of it’s fiesta, the ‘Night of the Oil Lamps’ and the Guinness World record it achieved last year. The town hall recently received the certificate confirming that the record for the world’s largest oil lamp was achieved in May 2013. For the next ‘Night of the Oil Lamps,’ a copy of the certificate will be made from material suitable for the outdoors, and placed near the giant lamp. The lamp, which was exhibited at one of the

entrances to the village, is 20 times larger than a traditional one. With a capacity of 650 litres, standing 3.25 metres high, 2.45m long and 1.06m wide the lamp was made by artisan Paco Garcia. To break the record the collaboration of a mechanical engineer, Antonio Leyva, who did the design and scaling was also instrumental, and Joseph A. Forte, who was the one who had the idea and together with other neighbours took care to make the model and follow the work.

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ews watch

In the dark

A FAULTY electrical cable left the town of Cuevas del Almanzora without electricity for almost an hour last week.

Sales up

Jacko tribute

Marble gift CANTORIA based company Cosentino has donated 900 square metres of marble to the new centre for the disabled being built in Velez Rubio.

Berlin fair SIX fruit companies from Almeria Province have travelled to the Fruit Logistica fair held in Berlin Numero uno THE new single by Almeria singer David Bisbal ‘Diez mil maneras’ has gone straight to number one in the Spanish digital download charts. This way A TOTAL of €282,346 is to be spent on maintenance and improvements of road signals on the roads that join Almeria and Granada. The project will take 20 months.

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FOURTEEN hybrid cars were sold in Almeria Province during January, a 27 per cent increase on the previous year.

Green light THE Junta de Andalucia regional government has given the go ahead for a lorry park project on the A327 in Huercal-Overa.

Cables checked ENDESA has finished checking 230 kilometres of electric lines in the province, allowing technicians to detect possible faults in the network that could affect supplies.

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ALMERIA guitarist Guillermo Fernandez has made a videoclip featuring a flamenco version of Michael Jackson’s ‘Smooth Criminal.’ The clip also features dancer Mayte Beltran.

World Cup dream

PESETAS: In 1983, the peseta piece was the lowest value coin in circulation in Spain.

Holding on to pesetas

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HE Spanish still have almost €1.67 billion worth of pesetas in notes and coins. According to the Bank of Spain, in November there were €870.3 million worth of pesetas in notes in Spain, almost €1 million less than the previous month. However, there were still the same amount of pesetas out there in coins as the

Quote of the I know what Iñaki did, but not Noos,’ the Infanta Cristina, the King of Spain’s youngest daughter, testifying in Palma court regarding the €6 million corruption case in which she and her husband, Iñaki Urdangarin, have been charged.

month before, €806.5 million. Since the euro came into circulation, in January 2002, people have been changing their pesetas for euros. At the time, there were €48.7 billion worth of pesetas in circulation. Until June 2012, the exchange could be made at any bank, but since then, only with the Bank of Spain. Since January 2011, approximately €1 million worth of pesetas has been exchanged every month. The peseta became the monetary unit of Spain in October 1868, substituting the Escudo, although the first FROM 1982: Coins made from aluminium.

coin to carry the word was minted in 1808 and was a twoand-a-half peseta coin. The first peseta coin which was not made from a precious metal was in 1937. The coin carried the face of a woman, representing the republic, and was known as the ‘blonde’ due to its colour from the copper-nickel alloy it was made of. From 1982, peseta coins were made in aluminium to cut costs. It was also when the 100 peseta coin came into circulation, followed later that decade by 10, 200 and 500 peseta coins. In 1983, the peseta piece became the lowest value coin in circulation in Spain.

Number of the week

after their ancestors were expelled 522 years from Spain by the Catholic Monarchs, the descendants of Sephardic Jews who can prove their ancestry will be granted Spanish citizenship by the Ministry of Justice, regardless of where they live or their religion.

IN form UD Almeria midfielder Azeez has spoken of his desire to represent Nigeria in this year’s World Cup Finals in Brazil.

In the swim A RECORD number of swimmers took part in the 14th Trofeo del Club Natacion Almeria with 388 participants from 17 clubs from Andalucia and Murcia taking part.

Fraile fine THE regional government has imposed a sixth fine of €3,700 on agricultural company La Mision, the owners of the run down Cortijo del Fraile in Nijar.

And finally... A TRAIN carrying 18 wagons full of ammonia derailed in La Nava, Huelva. According to the Junta de Andalucia, there was something on the tracks which caused the accident but no one was injured and the problem was rapidly solved by emergency services.

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Daughter of killer is granted orphan’s pension A JUDGE has granted an orphan’s pension to the daughter of a woman killed by her husband in Vicar, Almeria

in September 2011. The man was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison for murdering his wife

when she initiated divorce procedures following a relationship which had lasted for years. The couple had a daughter

who was also abused on a regular basis, both physically and psychologically. He was waiting for her when she got home from working as a nurse in El Ejido and killed her by hitting her repeatedly against the furniture and floor. He claimed in court he didn’t remember killing his wife and that he was drunk. His daughter has now been granted an orphan’s pension as if both of her FUGITIVES: Police are parents were deceased, which had formerly been calling for help in refused by the National locating 10 most Social Security Institute. wanted. The Almeria judge Also on the list are five pointed out that since birth, Spaniards, a German an the girl had only had one Albanian and a woman real parent, as her father from Colombia. had never taken care of Anyone with any her. He insisted that even if information can call 091 or the mother had died email fugitivos@policia.es through other causes, he which guarantees your would not have taken care anonymity. of his daughter. The wanted list has The killer will not be been shared by over entitled to a widower’s 5,000 on social netpension, and therefore, the working sites. girl cannot be denied an orphan’s pension.

Two Brits are included in top 10 most wanted list TWO Britons wanted for murder feature in a top 10 list of the most wanted criminals in Spain. Police are asking for help in finding the fugitives, including Kevin Thomas Parle, aged 33, and Christopher Guest, aged 36, both suspected of murder. Parle is alleged to have killed a young mum and a teenager in Liverpool, while Guest has been on the run after a farmer was killed in a bungled robbery in Cheshire, UK.

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NEWS EXTRA

Quarry opposed VELEZANOS Cavers Association has publicly opposed a research project for opening a quarry for ornamental rocks in the Alfesta area in Velez-Rubio.

Rates value THE PSOE has requested a catastral (rates valuation) revision to stop economically damaging the residents of HuercalOvera as they believe that mistakes by the PP are costing residents money in taxes.

Equal farming THE Provincial Council of Almeria via the Department of Equality has taught 13 women of east Almeria how to be ‘Organic Farmers.’

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Lions’ concert is a roaring success THE first Gala Concert, held in conjunction between Vera and District Lions Club and the French opera singer Isabelle Bes, was held at The Hotel Mexico in Vera Playa on Saturday. The event turned out to be a roaring success with 80 invited guests entertained to songs by Edith Piaf sung by Isabelle Bes. The well known French opera star, who now lives in Alfaix near Turre, received a standing ovation after each set and thrilled the guests with her powerful rendition of ‘Je Ne Regrette Rien.’ The evening raised over €750 for the Fund for Disadvantaged Children, which will help

A SUCCESS: Isabelle in full flow at Vera and District Lions Club Gala Concert. pay for a special walker for Isa Garcia Ramos a child from Arboleas. Lions President Glyn

Williams thanked Isabelle and her husband Carlos for arranging the concert along with sponsors of the evening Ibex Insurance. Glyn also stated that the evening had proved so popular that the next concert is already in the planning stages. The venue also proved to be an excellent choice, after a major refurbishment caused by recent floods, with the dining room in the hotel

being the perfect setting for the event, with the hotel providing an extensive array of hot and cold buffet food. Vera & District Lions Club is part of Lions International, serving the local community and helping those in need. If you feel you would like to help or learn more about the Lions, please contact Glyn Williams on 950 467 324 or Bill Davies on 950 459 487.

NEWS

And the winners are… KEITH ROBERTS from the Animal Protection Society Albox (APSA) would like to announce the Monthly Raffle Prize Winners For January 2014. Amigos Bowling Centre - 2 course Sunday Lunch for 2 or Fish & Chips with Dessert for two any day of the week (closed Mondays) was won by Dave and Sue Stratton. Bar International - A €15 Voucher was won by Mick and Ali Gardner. Colin The Card - A 10€ Voucher won by Helen. Eurowise Supermarket A €15 Voucher was won by Sarah Tickner. Pricebusters - A €15 Voucher was won by Brenda and Alan. The Winning tickets were drawn by Liz Carey an APSA shop volunteer. Sellers cash received, Jean and Dolores €92, Keith €64, making a total of €156 collected. APSA is grateful to the Amigos Bowling Centre, Bar International, Eurowise, Pricebusters and Colin The Card for their monthly prizes and to all who purchased tickets. The proceeds will go towards helping the many animals in APSA’s care. Keith would like to say many thanks for your continued support.

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Good win THE third best crowd of the season for UD Almeria watched them beat league leaders Atletico Madrid 2-0. A total of 10,958 fans turned up on a cold and windy Saturday night.

School grant THE rural school ‘Filabres’ in Albanchez is to receive €60,000 from the Junta de Andalucia regional government. The money will be spent on replacing the windows in the school.

Far out AWARD WINNING Almeria group the Dry Mouths have presented a new videoclip ‘From space to Desert – Part one’. The instrumental features the band performing at the Apolo theatre in Almeria.

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Flu virus claims its first victims in the province THE Health Delegation has confirmed the first two deaths from the flu in Almeria. As stated by Pilar Barroso, the two deceased both had an underlying disease, so the flu acted as a trigger for their deaths.

However, the Health Department is indicating that the spread of the virus is in remission with currently 190 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Statements made by the Councillor of Health for the Junta de Andalucia, Jose Rubio,

confirmed that the flu virus this winter is behaving normally and denied that there was an epidemic or vaccine shortage in the region. Rubio stressed that with a behaviour similar to 2010, the virus had been less lethal than in that year.

Speaking in Parliament, the minister made a call for ‘calm and tranquillity’ as the evolution of the virus had been ‘within what was expected’ although symptoms had manifested in younger patients and among chronically ill, middle-aged patients, giving the impression that the situation was worse than it is. This flu season is neither new nor unexpected, said Rubio, which shows all influenza viruses that are currently circulating are covered by the winter flu vaccine, which is also recommended by the World Health Organization. Rubio said that 71 per cent of severe cases in Andalucia had previous risk factors and 99 per cent of registered deaths had an underlying chronic disease.

Falling debris damages car A CAR parked in the town centre of Albox suffered damage to its roof after part of the rendering on the facade of an apartment block fell into the street below. The accident was caused due to the strong winds which swept through the area on Monday morning. A fair amount of rubble fell into the street and on top of the car. Local Police were called to the scene and cordoned off the area, followed by the fire brigade who gained access to the top floor apartment and, using a long scraper, sent the remainder of the loose rendering into the street. Fortunately no-one was injured in the incident which happened in one of the busier streets of Albox.

LUCKY ESCAPE: No pedestrians were hurt.

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Passport applications must be made online ALL British residents living in Spain must now make their passport applications online at www.gov.uk/overseaspassports. The new process helps to reduce the possibility of errors that can delay applications.

Applicants will find the new process, which includes online payment, generates a personalised pack that must be printed, signed and sent with photographs and any additional documentation that may be required to the Passport Office in the UK - and no longer to a British Consulate or Embassy. Once an application has been submitted, applicants BETWEEN 40,000 and 50,000 people are exploited in will receive instructions on Spain every year, both sexually and in their workplace, how to track its progress according to Catholic charity Caritas. via the website. Most of them are women aged between 20 and 35, It is important to apply who come mainly from Brazil, Nigeria and Romania. in good time as a new However, many of them are under 18-years-old. passport will take at least According to experts, worldwide, millions of people four weeks from the time are exploited, including methods such as arranged the completed application marriages, drug and organ trafficking. pack is received by the Passport Office in the UK, In the workplace, the most affected areas are or six weeks if replacing a factories, agriculture, domestic service and those lost or stolen passport. forced into begging. Applicants who cannot In Spain, mafias use immigration laws to threaten access the online system the women they bring into the country. or who experience any The white slave trade is a ‘business’ which moves difficulties should contact billions of dollars every year, beaten only by weapons the Passport Advice Line trading. In Spain alone, it moves €5 million per day. on +44 300 222 0000.

Thousands exploited

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NEWS EXTRA

Forest works THE works for improving forests in Oria, Albox, Lucar, Rioja, Alhama de Almeria and Vicar will recover the potential of forests damaged by fires.

Equal opps GUADALINFO and IAM (Andalucian Institute for Women) have collaborated to extend an equal opportunities workshop. IAM techniques in the use of social networks are taught by members.

Good boxing BOXING clubs Almeria Boxing and Club Indalo collected more than 500 kilos of food during the course of a boxing event which was handed over to the Red Cross in Almeria City.

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Stepping down for adventure AFTER two years at the head of the Provincial Tourism Board ‘Costa de Almería,’ Natalia Diaz Stalenhoef has voluntarily stepped down from her position to start a new professional adventure in the private sector. Natalia thanked the government team for the

support and trust placed in her since she took up the post on January 3, 2012. Natalia also wanted to thank Almeria Province for the past two years, “Many thanks to the province of Almeria for all it has given me, for the experiences and people I have met at this stage in my manage-

Town of Albanchez remembers Maria THE town of Albanchez is preparing a tribute for Saturday to their illustrious neighbour, Maria Garcia Torrecillas, who died last week at the age of 97 in Monterrey (Mexico). Maria who was born in the small village of Almanzora back in 1916 was known for her humanitarian efforts on behalf of hundreds of exiled republicans and many mothers, especially Jewish and Polish, who were sought by the Nazis in the maternity hospital in Elne, southern France.

ment career because they have done nothing but enrich me personally and professionally, which has allowed me to develop on a personal basis and increase my professional knowledge in this sector.” The Provincial Council, the president and the vice president expressed their gratitude to Natalia for two years of hard work and constant meetings with mayors and people from the tourist sector. Speaking about the promotional video of Almeria with singer David Bisbal which lead to some discontent, Natalia said “it is generally for the entire province, we did not want to give relevance to any particular town, hence there are municipalities that do not appear.”

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Always fun PULPI Carnival of 2014 will be held on March 7, 8 and 9 and the poster ‘Siempre Carnava’' (Always Carnival) designed by the artist Gala Ranert has been chosen to publicise the event.

Silent party THE Almeria Partido Popular political party does not provide clear explanations of the alleged cases of corruption that have been reported in the media in recent weeks and directly affects their organisation.

Wine advice THE Provincial Council of Almeria will design a project for an ‘Ethnographic’ Museum of Wine of Laujar de Andarax and provide technical advice to set up the museum.

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Vandals attack the Via Verde VANDALS have struck barely two weeks since the work on a new section of the Via Verde in Cantoria was finished. In that short time the Via Verde has already suffered the first attacks of vandalism and theft. This is the case with a new fountain built in one of several seating areas that this new section contains. The beautiful construction has suffered the worst of the attacks with a tin of black paint being poured over the stones of the new fountain on three of its four sides. The fountain, recently built by youngsters from an Employment Workshop com-

Third police car THE Local Police in HuercalOvera have taken possession of a brand new police car taking the fleet up to three. The new vehicle joins two others acquired in recent months to patrol the streets of the town. Antonio Lázaro, councillor for Citizen’s safety said: “The town hall has been

very clear in responding to the requests we have had from the police force, and we have done that with the three new cars we have added within one year. “With a new fleet our agents have more safety in their work and are more effective, which in turn improves the safety of all our neighbours.”

New BMW motorbikes on the road in Mojacar MOTORBIKE company BMW Motorrad chose the town of Mojacar for the international presentation of their new bikes. The German company is the first manufacturer in the world to adopt the ABS antilock braking system on its bikes, ahead of European legislation that will enforce this type of safety device on all new models from 2016. With the presence of dealers across Europe, BMW has organised this event with national and international relevance to test 200 bikes fresh from the factory

on the roads of Almería. Natalia Diaz, director of the Provincial Tourism alongside Emmanuel Agüero, councillor for Tourism for Mojacar, the director of Mojacar Tourism, Carmen GarcíaCampoy, and the director of Servigroup Marina Playa, Ricardo Escudero, officiated the opening launch of the new technological developments on the BMW bikes. Natalia Diaz pointed to this activity as being very positive for the area and its impact elsewhere in the province.

DAMAGED: Paint has been poured over the newly installed fountain. prised of local residents, has been completely damaged by the paint. The attack appears to have taken place under cover of the night and has been linked by Cantoria Town Hall with recent graffiti on the wall by the welcome to Cantoria sign. Along with these episodes of vandalism there has been the theft of plants and vegetation along the same section of the walk. Gone are several cactus, rosemary and other species.

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Man pays price for pizza delivery A DRIVER who sped off without paying for his pizza has ended up with a bill for thousands of euros. A court in Almeria has sentenced a 25year-old resident of Olula del Rio for causing injuries to a pizza deliveryman. The court imposed a fine of six euros a day for six months, as well as ordering compensation amounting to €4,809 . The court considered it proven that

the accused placed an order for a pizza when he was inside a vehicle located on the Huitar road in the company of others on December 3, 2007 at around 11pm. Soon after, the pizza deliveryman arrived at the given place and passed the pizza through the driver’s window. At that time, the accused started up the car and set off down the road. However the delivery man had grabbed the driver’s window in a bid to recover the payment. During the trial, the victim testified that following the man’s refusal to pay for the services of the fire. order, he chose to put his Agents from the hand inside the window, was dragged Guardia Civil of Almeria, and fire fighters and road between 100 and 200 maintenance personnel metres before he hit the and needed worked through the ground night. An alternative assistance from two diversion was set up by passers-by. The court the AL-3111 before the believed the conduct of road reopened on the accused was aimed at Sunday morning at causing “harmful injury to the delivery man.” 9.30am.

Lorry fire causes big delays and diversion A FIRE in the trailer of a truck carrying pallets of tomatoes caused the closure of the A-92 at kilometre 397 in Pechina in the direction of Almeria for 11 hours. The incident occurred on Saturday night at 10.30pm with several calls from the public advising emergency

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Workshop closure THE mayor of Mojacar, Rosa Maria Cano, closed the Tourism Promotion Employment Workshop after handing out the corresponding diplomas to the 16 students who took part.

Better roads THE town hall of El Ejido is finalising a plan for settlement of infrastructures, roads and rural roads as a priority for 2014.

Practical help FIFTY students of the Secondary Education Institute of Albujaira from Nursing and Pharmacy Assistance courses visited the Hospital La Inmaculada Huercal-Overa to learn the work of the centre.

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Man arrested for phone shop theft A 21-YEAR-OLD man from Vera has been arrested by the Guardia Civil for an alleged robbery from a mobile phone shop in the town. In addition to solving the crime, the investigation succeeded in recovering some of the mobile phones, along with phone cards and Wifi modems, all stolen from the shop. The perpetrator of the crime forced the door of the shop in the early hours of the morning with a crowbar and got away with 29 mobile phones, two tablet PCs, several wireless modems and a large number of prepaid telephone cards. The Guardia Civil began its investigation, focusing their attention on known criminals, as a result of which agents learnt that a person was offering latest-generation mobiles at far below shop prices.

RECOVERED: Stolen goods found by police. Agents located the suspect in Vera, a person known to the Guardia Civil as having a criminal background and previous arrests for various crimes against property. After the suspect admitted

responsibility for the crime, agents recovered everal phones still in his possession as well as some empty boxes from other phones. The man was arrested and the case is in the hands of the court in Vera.

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Nursing home to be built for Mojacar THE government team of Mojacar Town Hall has given its approval for the first step in building a nursing home and day centre. This response is given due to a high demand from residents in Mojacar, with 25 per cent of the population aged over 65 years of age. Another factor is the prospect of jobs for some of the 16 unemployed Mojacar residents that formed an employment workshop specialising in health care as well as jobs in other departments. The mayor of Mojacar noted at the regular plenary session last week, “that various companies have been interested in building and managing a nursing home. “They all agreed that the area needed a facility of this nature, and the government team has chosen to build a nursing home to create jobs and give this council owned plot of land a value of service and not place on it a monetary value.” Rosa María Cano was responding to some criticism from opposition groups tha part of the municipal owned plot would be used to build housing .

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Easter poster is withdrawn

NEWS EXTRA

‘Ping-Pong’ ‘EL Palacio de Juegos Mediterraneos’ will host the Spanish Table Tennis Open 2014 and are requesting some volunteers. Those interested should send an email to voluntarios@ rfetm.com with the subject ‘VOLUNTARIOS WT2014’.

New magic MUNDO Magiko children’s theme park has closed its doors and the town hall of Huercal de Almeria is preparing the competition for a new tender of this natural area.

Women’s Day EVENTS to commemorate the International Women’s Day in Vicar will not only focus on March 8, they will last until April 10 and will begin on February 25.

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TOO CLOSE: Poster contest void.

THE jury for the competition to find the Easter 2014 poster in Huercal-Overa has decided to cancel the winning entry for this year. The work of artist Mireya Rubio Gomez was revoked for alleged plagiarism under article 2.1 of the contest as stated by the the area of culture. The article reads ‘that the works presented must be

previously unpublished. Works that have participated in other competitions must not be presented. Images must not have been previously published nor subjected to exploitation by a third party.” The poster will be made through a joint coordination between the Department of Culture and the ‘PasoMorao’ Brotherhood.

It’s just never too late to learn A 76-year-old woman from Gador has proven that it is never too late to learn. The story of Josefa Herrada, affectionately known as Fica, has moved hundreds of people with her desire to learn. After learning to read and write at an adult school, her inexhaustible curiosity and eagerness to learn led her to the door of her local Guadalinfo Centre. There she became familiar with the use of computers and as a result, has just had her memoirs published in a book.

The example of Fica has reached every corner of Andalucia through audiovisual news agency ‘Stories of Light.’ Her neighbours, however, had already recognised her courage paying a surprise tribute and book signing held at the end of January in Gador Town Hall. Fica told the Cadena SER radio station in Almeria. “I could read and write, but very little. I was in the adult school. I saw computers on TV and said to myself, “Lord, if you ever see me write with computers, it

would drive me crazy.” Fica was 70-years-old then. One day, coming out of the adult school, she met a young man who was leaving the Guadalinfo Centre. “Because I am so inquisitive, I said: 'Hey, kid, what's here?’ The director of Guadalinfo invited her to sign up and, after a few years, she boasted of writing with ‘10 fingers.’ “I think the Lord put me on my way. I was writing a cookbook, although this book is of the experiences that my parents and I had,” she said.

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MALLORCA

Diver rescued A MISSING diver, 33, was rescued in the Cala Carbo area in Pollensa. A Maritime Safety Service unit found him holding onto a rock near the Colomer islet but otherwise in good health.

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NEWS DESK COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Briton’s body found AN investigation has been opened after the body of a British man was found at a house in Almoradi. The 73-year-old’s body was found by firefighters moments after entering the property, which had caught fire.

Refuge uncovered

A TECHNICAL breakdown left the MRI scanner at Son Llatzer Hospital inoperative for two days. Forty patients had to reschedule their appointments as a consequence.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL digs in Elche on the site of the new Central Market have found an entrance to a refuge from the Civil War.

Pervert caught

Card cloning

A MAN, 51, has been arrested for performing a sex act in front of five German tourists aged between 16 and 17 on Palma’s promenade. An off-duty Guardia Civil officer caught the man, who had already been in jail for indecent exposure.

Cemetery expansion MONTUIRI cemetery is to be extended by 900 metres to match the current demand. This will be the second time the cemetery has been expanded in five years.

Crane danger A COURT has authorised Sa Pobla Town Council to disassemble a tower crane in danger of collapsing. The company that owns the crane has been in financial trouble since 2011, and hasn’t disassembled it since.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Good record

BEACH ACCESS: Residents are calling for a footbridge to be built.

A rough ride on way to the beach

RESIDENTS on the Orihuela Costa are calling for a pedestrian bridge to be built over the N-332 opposite Cala Mosca. Homeowners on the Alameda del Mar urbanisation and other housing developments claim they take their lives in their hands when they have to cross four lanes of traffic to get to Cala Mosca. In addition, on the coast side there is no pedestrian walkway that

allows them to safely negotiate the road. The builder had promised a bridge when the properties were built but it has not materialised and residents complain the problem has got worse with the widening of the N-332 and the opening of Zenia Boulevard bringing more traffic. One said: “Swimmers and bathers could go to the beach and then go to

the bars, restaurants and shops in the area if they had a footbridge to cross the road, but as it is, they drive to the beach and do not come. “Residents have argued against La Regia’s new footbridge, currently being built over the N332, saying there are closer bridges in the area for locals to cross the N-332, when at Alameda del Mar the closest one is at Punta Prima.”

DENIA HOSPITAL treated 4,500 cancer patients last year, of whom 750 were new cases. There is no waiting list for oncology outpatients or oncological surgery, the hospital announced.

Villena shops. A Romanian living in Yecla, he was charged after admitting distributing counterfeit money.

Almuñecar with rains of up to 62.2 litres per square metre, according to the local Farmer’s Information Office.

Buried treasure

No help

Budget woes

FIFTEEN gold and 486 silver coins discovered beneath a San Juan house in 1963 are on display at Alicante’s Archaeological Museum (MARQ). They were hidden when French troops invaded Spain to reinstate Fernando VII.

BENIDORM resident Fernando Flores claimed he was kidnapped in Mexico and forced to transfer money to secure his release. The 66-year-old criticised the Spanish Embassy’s lack of co-operation.

THE Velez-Malaga branch of the regionalist Partido Andalucista party has complained the local budget for transport has increased by €300,000 since the tram service was stopped in 2012 due to ongoing debts.

Brits advance

AXARQUIA

Bar thieves

EXACTLY 181,451 of the 463,550 passengers who used Alicante-Elche Airport in January were British. The next most numerous group were Spanish, with 69,859 passengers, and Germans with 40,866.

Funny money A 20-YEAR-OLD was arrested after trying to pass forged €20 banknotes in several

Public support VELEZ-MALAGA COUNCIL has made public its support for plans to declare Nerja Caves a World Heritage Site. According to Councillor Jesus Lupiañez, this would benefit the Axarquia, and the whole of the Malaga Province.

Rainy January JANUARY was the rainiest in four years in

TWO Bulgarians have been arrested for cloning credit and debit cards after placing a device in ATMs across Alicante and Murcia which copies the magnetic strip of the cards.

No course expansion PLANS to expand El Plantio golf course in Alicante have been turned down as they do not ‘meet the requirements of the Law to Promote the Implementation of Strategic Territorial Activities.’

Water works REDEVELOPMENT work in Avenida Alfredo Nobel, close to Los Locos beach, Torrevieja, has been completed. New water pipes have been installed at a cost of €290,000.

COSTA DEL SOL

Saved at sea A SEA rescue helicopter had to save three people suffering from hypothermia from a boat which had suffered a leak 27 miles off the coast of Marbella.

Falling arch SEVERAL pieces of the Marbella arch had to be removed by firemen as they were in danger of falling onto passing traffic.

King for a day A TORREMOLINOS pensioner has won a prize which will make him ‘King for a Day’ and allow him to spend €12,000 in one day in local shops.

Car overturns

THIEVES stole a TV, 12 bottles of whisky and nearly €3,000 in cash from a bar in Torrenueva, Motril. This is the fifth time the bar has been targeted by thieves in just two years, its owner claims.

A WOMAN was injured when her vehicle overturned on the A-7 motorway in La Cala de Mijas for reasons which are not known.

Marihuana arrest

Witness report

AN ALMUÑECAR man was arrested carrying 140 grammes of marihuana during a traffic control exercise on the GR-14 road in Salobreña.

LOCAL POLICE along the Costa del Sol intend to charge €20 for witness reports in traffic accidents from next week when used for claiming damages.

www.euroweeklynews.com

NEWS

Youths drink more low quality alcohol FIVE per cent of youths in Spain drink illegally-sold alcohol, according to a study. Four per cent of youths don’t see any ethical or health risks in buying alcohol which has not passed tax or health controls, despite the fact that it could be adulterated, according to the study carried out by

the Universidad Complutense in Madrid. The study surveyed 1,200 people aged between 14 and 34 of which 60 per cent habitually consume alcohol, especially binge drinking at the weekend. They mainly purchase the alcohol from Chinese bazaars or stalls on the street, but also consume

large quantities sold to them at low prices in certain establishments. Due to the lack of available money, such practices are on the rise, but the youths do not see the risk, despite the fact that it could lead to addiction in later years. Twenty-five per cent have suffered from alcohol poisoning in the past year.

Girls at risk from ritual mutilation IN Spain, some 17,000 girls are at risk of undergoing female genital mutilation. According to anthropologist Adriana Kaplan of the Wassu Foundation, the risk has increased by 61 per cent in Spain in the last four years amongst girls under 15 in families from African countries. This practice is carried out to prevent girls from having sexual urges so they maintain their virginity until marriage to ensure they will be accepted by their future husbands. Girls may be at risk depending on their country of origin and if their families have not abandoned this type of tradition. Attempts are made by the authorities and health service to dissuade them from returning to their country of origin for the

ORDEAL: Girls from African countries.

ritual or from having it carried out by clandestine witch-doctors in Spain. Parents are also informed that in Spain, the practice is unlawful. Many families living in Spain apparently do not want to carry out the mutilation, but feel pressured into doing so by their communities. NGO Mundo Cooperante some 400 people were has launched a campaign released. to fight female genital Another reason is mutilation and is selling because of extradition bracelets made by Masai agreements for foreign women in Kenya and prisoners, who are often Tanzania to help them sent to their countries of become independent. origin to serve their Each one is different and sentences. each includes a symbol, an In the same four years, X within a diamond, the number of foreign representing women inmates in Spanish whose rights are prisons fell by 21 per cent threatened by mutilation. to 21,315 people, Bracelets cost â‚Ź5 plus according to a Murcia postage and packing. University Professor who See more at has carried out a study of www.mundocooperante. the inmate population. org

Fewer inmates in Spanish prisons THE number of inmates in Spanish prisons has been falling for the past four years. Between, 2009 and 2013 it has fallen by 11.4 per cent. The main reason for this is that in 2010, a new law was introduced which reduced the maximum sentences for minor drugrelated crimes, which account for most of the inmates serving time. Just days after the reduction from nine to six years was approved,

13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de AlmerĂ­a

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FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

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13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

inance F A EURO WEEKLY NEWS 6 PAGE SPECIAL SECTION // WWW.EWNBUSINESS.COM

business & legal

Not a good deal

Spurious sales spotted by shoppers SPURIOUS reductions were detected by 65 per cent of shoppers at this year’s winter sales. ‘Before’ amounts on labels were often higher than the original prices, reported a FACUA survey. Twenty-three per cent spotted this error in more than half the shops, reported the consumers’ association questionnaire.

A further 18 per cent saw labelling errors in less than half the shops, while 16 per cent noticed only a few bogus markdowns. They had not seen any misleading labels at all, 8 per cent said. Almost half found supposedly-reduced products that were not on offer before the sales began in 50 per cent of shops.

Spain attracting more tourists... SPAIN rose up the international tourism rankings in 2013 by overtaking China to take third spot. The record 60.6 million international visitors it had left it behind France (83 million) and the USA (67 million) for international visitors, according to the UN’s World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The 5.6 per cent rise in foreign tourists helped boost the economy, accounting for 11 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The news came as part of a worldwide rise in tourism that saw international arrivals across the globe rise by 52 million or 5 per cent, reaching 1.08 billion, despite the world’s

economy still being in ‘low gear.’ Demand was strongest in Asia and the Pacific (+6 per cent), Africa (+6 per cent) and Europe (+5 per cent). The UNWTO’s Secretary General, Talem Rifai, said in the World Tourism Barometer report: “2013 was an excellent year for international tourism. “The tourism sector has shown a remarkable capacity to adjust to the changing market conditions, fuelling growth and job creation around the world, despite the lingering economic and geopolitical challenges. “Indeed tourism has been among the few sectors generating positive news for many economies.”

B

usiness extra

Tools down WORK on the Panama Canal has ground to a halt after builders led by Spain’s Sacyr carried out a threat to down tools. The consortium building new locks wants compensation for a $1.6bn (€1.17bn) cost overrun, about half the original contract value.

Fat cat BBVA bank Chairman Francisco Gonzalez was paid €5.17m in 2013.

Pound Dealz UK retailer Poundland plan to open 10 stores in Spain under the Dealz brand, first launched in Ireland.

Not such a bad bank VULTURE fund Teide acquired a property portfolio from Spain’s ‘bad bank’ Sareb last December. Some of the 2,500 properties had been sold, or were being sold, to private buyers who complained recently that Teide wanted to cancel their deals. Having put down deposits of €3,000 they each received a certified ‘burofax’

informing them that Teide “could not satisfy their request.” Instead it offered to return the €3,000 deposit without any kind of compensation. Teide was selling the properties at between €30,000 and €100,000 more than they had paid. Thanks to Sareb’s intervention, these purchases will now be honoured at the price agreed.

ON SALE: But how ‘accurate’ are the offers?

EWN

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STAT OF WEEK THE average Spanish household uses 10.52 kilowatts of electricity a year. Half goes on central heating and 21.7 per cent on household appliances, 30.6 per cent of which corresponds to the refrigerator.

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LONDON - FTSE 100

currencies direct

C LOSING P RICES F EBRUARY 10

C O M PA N Y PRICE(P) Aberdeen Asset Mngmnt 423.95 Admiral Group PLC 1392.00 Aggreko PLC 1572.50 AMEC PLC 1059.50 Anglo American PLC 1498.00 Antofagasta PLC 897.75 ARM Holdings PLC 917.00 Ashtead Group PLC 817.25 Associated British Foods 2835.00 AstraZeneca PLC 3884.75 Aviva PLC 455.05 Babcock Intrntl Group... 1373.00 BAE Systems PLC 429.70 Barclays PLC 274.65 BG Group PLC 1058.50 BHP Billiton PLC 1818.00 BP PLC 480.45 British Amcn Tobacco 2944.25

C H A N G E ( P ) % C H G. 4.30 1.02 -25.00 -1.76 9.00 0.58 18.64 1.79 17.50 1.18 3.50 0.39 21.00 2.34 4.11 0.51 -13.00 -0.46 25.50 0.66 -1.40 -0.31 5.30 0.39 0.60 0.14 3.00 1.10 5.50 0.52 12.50 0.69 -1.30 -0.27 18.58 0.64

NET VOLUME 870.45 138.12 28.95 73.25 432.68 130.73 595.78 39.80 86.35 260.94 432.35 27.22 511.54 8,093.47 518.39 1,449.40 2,168.56 182.63

See our advert on page 25

0.83217

1.20167 Units per €

United States $......................................................1.36436 Japan Yen ¥ ...........................................................139.461 Switzerland Francs................................................1.22294 Denmark Kroner ....................................................7.46194 Norway Kroner.......................................................8.36142

currenciesdirect.com/mojacar • Tel: +34 950 478 914 C O M PA N Y

PRICE(P)

British Land Co PLC British Sky Broadcasting BT Group PLC Bunzl PLC Burberry Group PLC Capita PLC Carnival PLC

670.25 890.50 390.65 1390.50 1482.50 1002.50 2541.50

C H A N G E ( P ) % C H G.

DOW JONES

NASDAQ

C LOSING P RICES F EBRUARY 10

C LOSING P RICES F EBRUARY 10

C O M PA N Y MMM 3M Co AXP American Express Co T AT&T Inc BA Boeing Co CAT Caterpillar Inc CVX Chevron Corp CSCO Cisco Systems Inc DD E I du Pont de Nemours and Co XOM Exxon Mobil Corp GE General Electric Co GS Goldman Sachs Group Inc HD Home Depot Inc INTC Intel Corp IBM International Business Machine... JNJ Johnson & Johnson JPM JPMorgan Chase and Co MCD McDonald's Corp MRK Merck & Co Inc MSFT Microsoft Corp NKE Nike Inc PFE Pfizer Inc PG Procter & Gamble Co KO The Coca-Cola Co TRV Travelers Companies Inc UTX United Technologies Corp UNH UnitedHealth Group Inc VZ Verizon Communications Inc V Visa Inc WMT Wal-Mart Stores Inc DIS Walt Disney Co

PRICE CHANGE %CHANGE VOLUME 130.33 87.00 32.30 127.02 94.87 112.05 22.67 63.45 90.58 25.19 161.93 76.45 24.21 177.25 90.04 56.62 95.92 54.77 36.56 72.69 31.22 77.31 37.95 80.88 110.73 71.36 46.81 221.78 73.75 75.67

+1.43 +1.31 +0.30 +4.35 +1.04 +0.78 +0.18 +0.49 +0.78 +0.24 +0.18 +0.29 +0.215 +2.58 +1.29 +0.14 +0.98 +1.00 +0.38 +1.18 +0.38 +0.41 -0.08 +0.19 +1.28 +0.49 +0.13 +2.77 +0.93 +0.11

+1.11% +1.53% +0.94% +3.55% +1.11% +0.70% +0.80% +0.78% +0.87% +0.96% +0.11% +0.38% +0.90% +1.48% +1.45% +0.25% +1.03% +1.86% +1.05% +1.65% +1.23% +0.53% -0.21% +0.24% +1.17% +0.69% +0.28% +1.26% +1.28% +0.15%

3.3M 4.5M 29.4M 8.9M 9.7M 7.1M 54.2M 4.6M 12.6M 34.9M 5.0M 6.2M 30.9M 4.7M 9.5M 25.1M 6.6M 14.5M 33.3M 3.5M 27.9M 7.3M 20.5M 2.5M 4.0M 7.0M 13.5M 3.1M 7.3M 11.5M

2.00 -2.50 -1.43 1.54 8.00 7.50 15.00

C O M PA N Y

0.30 -0.28 -0.36 0.11 0.54 0.75 0.59

NET VOLUME 188.08 100.20 705.49 18.01 54.01 219.44 15.57

PRICE

CHANGE NET / %

$ 3.05 $ 173.93 $ 9.62 $ 351.56 $ 24.61 $ 14.12 $ 6.81 $ 5.42 $ 19.64 $ 74.45 $ 44.68

0.67 / +28.15% 34.85 / +25.06% 1.47 / +18.04% 51.18 / +17.04% 3.32 / +15.59% 1.87 / +15.27% 0.87 / +14.65% 0.69 / +14.59% 2.47 / +14.39% 9.31 / +14.29% 5.54 / +14.15%

$ 8.12 $ 3.16 $ 9.99 $ 7.93 $ 2.61 $ 17.79 $ 18.98 $ 15.72 $ 3.68 $ 17.05 $ 4.93

3.31 / -28.96% 0.63 / -16.62% 1.46 / -12.75% 1.15 / -12.67% 0.37 / -12.42% 2.37 / -11.76% 2.25 / -10.60% 1.73 / -9.91% 0.34 / -8.46% 1.482 / -8.00% 0.41 / -7.68%

Most Advanced SMART Technologies Inc. athenahealth, Inc. Net 1 UEPS Technologies, Inc. Intercept Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Liquidity Services, Inc. Ocera Therapeutics, Inc. Lattice Semiconductor Corporation bebe stores, inc. Activision Blizzard, Inc Expedia, Inc. Receptos, Inc.

Most Declined Fairway Group Holdings Corp. Echelon Corporation Internet Initiative Japan, Inc. Credit Suisse AG Life Partners Holdings Inc Aceto Corporation NIC Inc. Montage Technology Group Limited Intermolecular, Inc. ProShares UltraShort Nasdaq Biotchnlg Pixelworks, Inc.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

C O M PA N Y PRICE(P) CHANGE Centrica PLC 304.40 -9.78 Coca-Cola HBC AG 1604.50 -2.00 Compass Group PLC 889.75 -2.16 CRH PLC 1634.50 -3.00 Diageo PLC 1819.00 1.00 easyJet PLC 1717.00 -10.00 Experian PLC 1072.50 -3.00 Fresnillo PLC 817.00 24.00 G4S PLC 230.05 -5.00 GKN PLC 402.25 -1.38 GlaxoSmithKline PLC 1602.75 -9.50 Glencore Xstrata PLC 326.05 0.75 Hammerson PLC 536.00 2.50 Hargreaves Lansdown 1351.00 -3.00 HSBC Holdings PLC 623.00 -4.80 IMI PLC 1474.50 -4.00 Imperial Tobacco Group 2233.00 20.00 InterContinental Hotels . 1949.00 6.00 International Consldtd ... 425.60 -2.70 Intertek Group PLC 2896.50 -2.00 ITV PLC 202.80 0.80 Johnson Matthey PLC 3199.50 18.00 Kingfisher PLC 363.15 0.40 Land Securities Group 1039.00 5.00 Legal & General Group 221.00 -0.20 Lloyds Banking Group 81.99 0.20 London Stock Exchange 1924.50 -4.00 Marks & Spencer Group 473.35 0.70 Meggitt PLC 519.00 1.00 Melrose Industries PLC 301.30 6.20 Mondi PLC 963.25 3.00 National Grid PLC 793.25 1.17 Next PLC 6300.00 -7.45 Old Mutual PLC 176.80 -0.30 Pearson PLC 1101.50 7.00 Persimmon PLC 1381.50 -3.00 Petrofac Ltd 1233.00 38.00 Prudential PLC 1273.00 -3.90 Randgold Resources Ltd 4494.50 68.00 Reckitt Benckiser Group 4801.50 18.00 Reed Elsevier PLC 888.50 1.50 Resolution Ltd 358.85 0.30 REXAM PLC 504.50 1.00 Rio Tinto PLC 3423.50 15.60 Rolls-Royce Holdings 1186.00 10.51 Royal Bank of Scotland 339.05 1.60 Royal Dutch Shell PLC 2226.50 3.40 Royal Mail PLC 591.00 1.81 RSA Insurance Group 102.65 -1.50 SABMiller PLC 2746.50 7.50 Sage Group (The) PLC 416.90 0.80 Sainsbury (J) PLC 353.75 2.78 Schroders PLC 2538.50 14.00 Severn Trent PLC 1764.00 1.20 Shire PLC 3151.00 29.00 Smith & Nephew PLC 912.00 -2.50 Smiths Group PLC 1397.00 -6.64 Sports Direct Intrntnl... 691.50 0.00 SSE PLC 1342.00 -15.00 Standard Chartered PLC 1240.50 0.50 Standard Life PLC 377.25 0.10 Tate & Lyle PLC 774.50 -0.16 Tesco PLC 322.15 1.18 Travis Perkins PLC 1839.50 -7.00 TUI Travel PLC 432.80 -0.50 Tullow Oil PLC 836.50 -0.50 Unilever PLC 2370.50 7.00 United Utilities Group 732.50 -0.50 Vodafone Group PLC 220.17 -1.80 Weir Group PLC 2212.50 14.00 Whitbread PLC 3938.00 2.00 William Hill PLC 347.15 0.00 Wm Morrison Sprmrkts 239.10 1.30 Wolseley PLC 3342.50 1.00 WPP PLC 1302.00 0.00

% C H G. -3.11 -0.12 -0.24 -0.18 0.06 -0.58 -0.28 3.03 -2.13 -0.34 -0.59 0.23 0.47 -0.22 -0.76 -0.27 0.90 0.31 -0.63 -0.07 0.40 0.57 0.11 0.48 -0.09 0.24 -0.21 0.15 0.19 2.10 0.31 0.15 -0.12 -0.17 0.64 -0.22 3.18 -0.31 1.54 0.38 0.17 0.08 0.20 0.46 0.89 0.47 0.15 0.31 -1.44 0.27 0.19 0.79 0.55 0.07 0.93 -0.27 -0.47 0.00 -1.11 0.04 0.03 -0.02 0.37 -0.38 -0.12 -0.06 0.30 -0.07 -0.81 0.64 0.05 0.00 0.55 0.03 0.00

VOLUME 4,129.74 73.61 244.20 123.21 319.34 81.32 116.77 253.87 1,302.85 351.63 764.34 1,838.30 41.25 72.74 5,154.75 56.22 164.25 24.53 510.36 23.53 317.52 21.51 457.25 59.64 921.25 17,211.61 28.14 224.04 50.98 130.92 99.76 234.01 31.17 709.20 168.26 53.24 295.29 303.98 53.47 147.26 117.22 170.71 36.44 700.25 307.14 501.57 189.27 52.49 3,914.77 356.87 116.62 864.56 19.73 24.25 74.04 380.69 44.99 32.13 552.33 293.16 382.93 98.97 940.75 28.04 154.06 258.36 200.52 169.12 7,202.11 42.93 169.13 197.15 374.03 17.84 158.83

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

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13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

EWN

23

Good news for Spanish economy THE good news for the Spanish economy keeps on coming. The Spanish service sector made a positive start to 2014 as both activity and new orders continued to expand solidly. Moreover, employment stabilised, ending a sequence of job shedding which stretched back to March 2008. However, companies still discounted output prices sharply, while input costs rose following no change in December. The headline seasonally adjusted Business Activity Index rose to 54.9 in January from 54.2 in December, signalling a third successive monthly increase in activity in the sector. Furthermore, the solid expansion was the sharpest since July 2007. A number of respondents indicated that improving economic conditions had supported rises in business activity. Each of the six monitored sectors posted increases in activity, led by Transport & Storage. The weakest rise was

J

ON THE UP: Transport and Logistics lead the way. at Renting & Business Activities companies. Transport & Storage also registered the fastest rise in new business. Overall, new orders increased at a solid pace, albeit one that was slower than seen at the end of 2013.

UST 5 per cent of Spaniards do not believe that corruption is ‘widespread’ in the country. According to a new anti-corruption report by the European Commission, 95 per cent of the population feels corruption is widespread. A press statement from the EC said: “Although an anti-corruption legal framework is largely in place in Spain and law enforcement has shown good results in investigating corrupt practices, the report does show a certain number of deficiencies. “Particularly challenging is political corruption and deficient checks and balances, notably in public spending and control mechanisms at regional and local levels. “In this report, the European Commission suggests that tailor-made anti-corruption strategies for regional and local level administrations are developed, that ongoing reforms and implementation of the new rules on party funding is pursued, and that comprehensive codes of conduct for elected officials with adequate accountability tools are developed.” Cecilia Malmström, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, said:

Signs of strengthening economic conditions had reportedly been behind the rise in new orders, which was the sixth in as many months. Services companies increased their staffing levels fractionally

in January, thereby ending a run of 70 consecutive monthly reductions in employment. Anecdotal evidence suggested that staffing levels were reflective of current workloads, with some panellists taking on extra staff in response to rising activity, while others reduced their workforces in line with the completion of projects. Outstanding business continued to decrease in January. Although only modest, the pace of depletion quickened for the third month running. Service providers recorded an increase in input prices for the third time in the past four months, following no change in costs in December. Respondents indicated that higher salary payments had been the principal reason for rising input prices. Hotels & Restaurants posted the strongest increase in input costs. Companies continued to lower their output prices, as has been the case in each month

Hands up if you think Spain is corrupt... HOME AFFAIRS: EU Commissioner Cecilia Malmström.

since August 2008. Where selling prices were lowered, this was largely a result of competitive pressures. The prospect of further improvements in economic conditions during 2014 led business sentiment to strengthen in January. Optimism regarding the yearahead outlook for activity was at the highest since July 2007. Commenting on the Spanish Services PMI® survey data, Andrew Harker, senior economist at Markit and author of the report, said: “The Spanish service sector backed up the solid performance seen in December with accelerated growth of activity in January, while we even saw an end to job shedding in the sector for the first time since the economic crisis began. “Companies are still having to offer discounts in order to secure sales, but they are increasingly optimistic that 2014 can see a recovery get properly under way.”

“Corruption undermines citizens’ confidence in democratic institutions and the rule of law, it hurts the European economy and deprives States from muchneeded tax revenue. Member States have done a lot in recent years to fight corruption, but this report shows that it is far from enough. The report suggests what can be done, and I look forward to working with Member States to follow it up.” The Commission is also suggesting that irregularities in public procurement procedures at regional and local levels should be addressed further. Alongside an analysis of the situation in each EU Member State, the European Commission is also presenting two extensive opinion polls. More than three-quarters of Europeans, and 95 per cent of Spanish citizens, agree that corruption is widespread in their home country. Approximately one in four Europeans considers that they are affected by corruption in their everyday lives. In Spain, that number is 63 per cent, the highest percentage in the EU. Four per cent of Europeans, and 2 per cent of Spanish citizens say that they have been asked or expected to pay a bribe in the past year. The Commisssion has estimated that corruption costs the EU economy around €120 billion per year.

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FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

Steer kids away from the pricey habit of smoking S

MOKERS out there already know what a drain the habit has on spending. A regular smoker might smoke up to or more than three packets a week, and that can add up considerably over the course of months and years. On top of that, the majority of us women spend a substantial amount of money on face creams, eye creams, serums and masks - potions and lotions to help maintain youthful features as long as possible. Yet with every cigarette smoked, it massively increases our chances of wrinkly and dull skin - so forking out on all the creams in the world is just a big waste of money! Each person has the right to do whatever they want to their own body, but as much as anyone claims to love cigarettes, that pricey-little-cancer-stick will

Loose change A look at finance for females

THE government spent €2.296 billion on unemployment benefits last year, 13 per cent less than in 2012. Average pay was €858.4, a reduction of 6.5 per cent on the previous year.

SPANISH toll roads company Abertis paid €32.2 million for another 6 per cent of Metropistas. Albertis now has a 51 per holding in the Mexican motorway company.

jane.plunkett@euroweeklynews.com

ANTI-SMOKING: Important to target children in the right way. eventually repay your love by making you ugly, with bags and wrinkles under your eyes. Giving up smoking isn’t just about being responsible to your health and looks; it’s about being responsible in regards to controlling spending, as well as setting a good example for future generations. Wouldn’t most smokers admit that they wish they had never become hooked in the first

Jobs deal place? That’s why targeting antismoking campaigns at children in the right way is so important these days. In America more than $100 million is being spent on new anti-smoking advertisements aimed at frightening teenagers

Q. From your answer to my earlier question in EWN, it appears that I have You and the to pay the back taxes owing on the vehicle before I can de-register (baja) Law in Spain the vehicle still listed in my name. By David Searl I have never got any notifications from DGT or from ‘Recaudacion’ to my correct address where I moved in 2001. I understand that you have to inform DGT Malaga, when you change address, which I did not do, thinking the new owner would arrange everything. Now Recaudacion has suddenly found my address and claims the taxes for the years 2003-2013. During all these years I have had in my possession another two cars registered at my new address since 2001, so Recaudacion could easily have found me. I recently heard about a similar case where the person went to court and won his case on the grounds that they could easily find the correct address to send notifications. What is your opinion? L.M. (Costa del Sol) owner. Many towns pass this tax to a central collection dept called ‘Recaudacion.’ You can protest you should have to pay only the previous four years of the tax, as you were not informed. I

Dole profit

Road sense

Jane Plunkett

If not informed, must he pay tax?

A. Unfortunately, I think your chances are small. You are speaking of the annual municipal vehicle tax and the town hall is not required to inform you of back taxes owed. All responsibility is on you, as

BUSINESS EXTRA

suspect the person who won his case was protesting against a traffic fine.

Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana & Associates in Fuengirola at Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.

away from picking up the habit. What does a pack of cigarettes cost? Your teeth, says one TV advert, which depicts a teenager buying a pack of cigarettes at a shop and literally pulling out a tooth with a set of pliers to pay for them.

BARCELONA-BASED pharmaceutical multinational Almirall agreed a redundancy plan reducing layoffs from 250 to 180. Thirty more employees can remain if they accept wage cuts and ‘substantial changes’ to working conditions.

New gold rush in Spain as millions are invested WITH gold prices still riding high a new mini-gold rush is taking place in Spain. Regions where gold mines have long been closed are being prospected using modern techniques that international companies hope will make them profitable once again. The traditional gold mining regions dating back to Roman times - are in Galicia and Asturias, and that is where there are thought to be some of the biggest untapped gold deposits left in Western Europe. Two companies involved in investing millions of euros in the regions are Vancouver, Canada, based Edgewater Exploration and Astur Gold. Edgewater acquired the rights to produce gold at a site called Corcoesto in Galicia in 2010, the same year that Astur Gold took control of the Salave deposit in Asturias. Together, the sites are thought to contain more than two million ounces of gold, but it is unlikely anywhere near that amount can be profitably extracted. GOLD: Prices still riding high.

Astur Gold has already received more than 11,000 applications for 800 jobs it is creating during the construction phase. But that depends on the regional government giving the go ahead, which the company hopes will happen before the end of 2015. Once built the mine will need in the region of 200-250 workers. Astur Gold is currently completing a Feasibility Study on the Salave Gold Project. Meanwhile at Corcoesto an environmental impact study has been presented, with Edgewater Exploration planning an initial investment of somewhere in the region of €126 million in the mine.

OPINION & COMMENT

Time ‘illegal’ homes issue was sorted out I HAVE recently attended two SOHA meetings (Save Our Homes Axarquia), and to look around the room and see hundreds of people who have problems with their homes is shocking to see. Some of these members have had problems for years; they live their lives in limbo, in fear of their homes being demolished, with little or no compensation to follow. We live in a small area of Axarquia, but are fully aware that there are thousands upon thousands more properties throughout Spain with legality problems. We have lived in our home for 10 years, only to find out that the Junta de Andalucia is now in the process of trying to revoke all our licences. Does anyone really know if their home is legal? Over the years SOHA has made many good contacts and is still working with the ‘powers that be’ to solve property issues. If there are any other small groups or individuals who are fighting for their homes, let SOHA know and we can all fight together. After all these years of newspaper reports and TV programmes, buying property in Spain isn’t safe. Despite government promises and political reassurances, nothing has been done. It is time that this problem was taken seriously; it affects people and not just foreigners but Spain’s own subjects too. Come on, Spanish politicians, make a stand and get your house in order NOW! Kath Williams (via euroweeklynews.com)

Lucky to be alive IN May 2012, at 2.50pm, I suffered a serious head injury in Mijas, when I fell about 10 feet. I was unconscious for about 15 minutes. I was covered in blood. I was taken to the Xanit Hospital, Benalmadena, where they put six stitches in my wound, at the back of my head, put me on a drip, and did an X-ray. They then said I needed a brain scan as soon as possible, but, because I did not have private health cover, I would have to go to the Universidad Hospital in Malaga. We arrived there (A&E) at approximately 7pm, I was pushed

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Letters YOURSAY@EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

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serve the new Marina Alta Hospital at La Xara. Anyone using this hospital knows the frustration of finding a parking space there. Many people who do not drive have to rely on friends or pay high taxi fares to get to the hospital. It is possible to take the train to Denia and then get a bus, but it is not an easy option. I would like as many people as possible to request a stop near the new hospital. There was fierce opposition recently when it was rumoured the line would be closed. Perhaps we could now gather the same enthusiasm to campaign for a stop near to the Marina Alta Hospital? Lorna, Moraira (Alicante)

Bike trouble

ARE THE MARTIANS ABOUT TO LAND ON TORROX VILLAGE?

up against a wall on the trolley, and stayed there until 3am (12 hours after my accident). I was then taken for a scan, and put into the Intensive Care Ward. At about 10am, a doctor came to me and said I would have to have another brain scan at 11.30am because there was extensive bleeding on my brain. Well, I had a second scan which showed a worsening condition. The doctor then said: “You have been very lucky that blood has not entered your brain.” Now after reading about Michael Schumacher’s accident, and the importance of urgent attention when sustaining serious head injuries, I realise how lucky I was, considering the time it took to attend to me. Gordon Cooper (84), Benalmadena Costa (Malaga)

War decision

CASSANDRA NASH’S article (Issue 1492) calls for a bit of clarification of a small paragraph: ‘The killers of Jose Couso, a Spanish cameraman deliberately shot by

WHEN YOU WRITE All letters, whether by email or post, should carry the writer’s postal address, NIE and contact number though only the name and town will be published. Letters may also be edited. Readers who have missed earlier correspondence can see all letters posted on:

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US soldiers in Baghdad in 2005, will never come to court, critics complained.’ This incident took place during the Iraq war when US tanks rolled into Baghdad. They were on constant alert for snipers positioned in buildings looking down to the street. The main hotel in the centre of Baghdad was the base for all media from major countries booked in to gain as much information and photographs as possible of this ongoing war. One of the tank squad sighted men on the terrace of the top floor of the press base hotel, and one of them was aiming

Elizabeth Clark (By email) down with what might have been a weapon. Now, what must be understood, this is war! And if one is serving in the military it is a split-second, life or death instant reaction. Had the tank soldier delayed a second or two to think, and in fact it had been a weapon, he would have been shot instantly. Sadly, Jose Couso being a photographer and not a soldier, attempting to get some good photographs for his publication, had not even thought that what he was doing would cost him his life. Couso’s family did bring charges several times against the tank team here in Spain; however, no doubt the court realised this was an unaccountable tragic incident, and tabled the case. Jack Nusbaum, Torremolinos (Malaga)

Hospital stop I WAS very interested in the news that money is to be spent on upgrading the Trenet line as far as Denia and I hope that part of this can be used to create a spur to

WE’VE all been amused by these mid-teen Spanish boys riding bikes in groups, with one sitting on the handlebars with his legs sticking straight out in front. But be aware – they are not all just having fun! When I went back to my parked car, four boys on three bikes were coming towards me, too close in for me to step back and open the boot. A boy sitting on the handlebars tried to get his foot through the shoulder strap of my handbag. He did not manage it, and I just got my hands and arms dirty and a new sweater all kicked around by his filthy, sweaty trainers. But I was very lucky, I didn’t get really hurt and/or lose my handbag. Watch out, ladies! M Anderson, Los Alcazares (Alicante)

Big bank THERE'S been a lot of talk recently concerning food banks in the UK, where people can go along and get a shopping bag full of goodies, although I fail to see where biscuits and cakes come into a diet for near-starving recipients. What I’m really annoyed about is no-one has yet mentioned the ongoing long-term biggest food bank that is actually in the Palace of Westminster. This is where our great and good can turn up, collect 500 smackers for doing nothing (in some cases) or very little but get subsidised food and drink in the Palace canteens because they can’t afford to pay the going rate, poor things! Keith Hallam (By email)

The views expressed and opinions given in Letters are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. They accept no responsibility for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements, and reject claims arising out of any action that a company or individual may take on the basis of information contained therein.

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OPINION & COMMENT

Not so sad farewell to BBC... W ELL, here in Tenerife we’ve finally lost the BBC. With the shifting of the satellite, the whole BBC ORG is, until I work out another source, an ex-member of my telly club. And, apart from the often excellent documentaries and Flog Its, I don’t miss it. Not having to listen to the biased drivel of BBC news has actually lowered my stress levels overnight. The recent storms have been a case in point. You can almost feel the frustration straining through the screen, as they have tried to blame the government for all the storms and flooding. Unfortunately, without raising the status of the Conservative party to that of God, (heaven forbid) they’ve been unsuccessful; but by Jove they really have tried! Their cross section of politically correct announcers has regaled us with all the ‘Couldn’t more have been dones?’ ‘Why wasn’t it anticipateds.’ ‘Why weren’t we

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT more prepareds?’ and so on. Give us a break! These storms are the worst since records began. You can’t anticipate or prepare for something that has no precedent. By this reckoning we should be building fleets of space ships in case the world comes to an end. One thing I do agree with is the speed, or lack of it, with which the government has acted to relieve these areas. When the furore and floods

UNPRECEDENTED: Flooding could not have been predicted. subside, there should be serious questions raised. Mind you, for all the real errors of judgment over the past decade, the incompetent, sanctimonious Labour Quango chief Lord Smith should resign forthwith. No, back on the ranch, I don’t miss the BBC, and as for EastEnders, I lost interest the first time they shot ‘Dirty Den’. I see there are now hundreds of ‘British’ men training in Al Qaeda camps in Syria, apparently with a view to launching terrorist attacks back in the UK. I hope the anti-terrorist organisations have their eyes firmly on this bunch of

toerags. Mind you, they do have their ‘uman rites’, so I suppose they must all be allowed back to see their families, and no doubt collect the dole while they plan to kill the people who welcomed them into their communities. The only ‘rites’ these traitorous murders should be entitled to are the last ones. Their families must know who they are. If they are all so ‘moderate’ they should shop ‘em to the authorities forthwith. But they won’t, will they? Keep the Faith, Love Leapy Leapylee2002@gmail.com

LEAPY LETTERS

Issues of colour I HAVE always said it cannot work when, for example, there is a Black Police Officers’ Association but not a White one, and a Black Footballers’ Association, but again not a White one - (Pitfalls of being controversial, Issue 1491). When are they going to understand that in order to be treated equally there must be total equality. If you want to call me a Honkey, let me call you names. After all, it used to be said “sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me,” but nowadays people are too easily upset. Richard Prowse, Cartagena (Murcia)

Cassandra Nash

A weekly look and not entirely impartial reaction - to the Spanish political scene

AS predicted when the corruption case involving the King’s son-inlaw Iñaki Urdangarin made headlines, Spain’s monarchy will slim down. The Prince of Wales, saw this as a mini-salvation for hereditary privilege some time back and his cousin the Spanish king is following suit. The two Infantas, Elena and Urdangarin’s wife Cristina, are to be sidelined while Queen Sofia and Prince Felipe’s wife Letizia will be ‘professionalised.’ They will

receive respective salaries of €63,234 and €49,182 plus €68,505 and €53,382 expenses in Spain’s version of Charles’s ‘Firm.’ Formerly they received only undisclosed sums for expenses. In a crisis-burdened society that was once Juan Carlista but never monarchist, this will bring complaints. Others will argue that the two women can hardly do less than the majority of politicians but are infinitely better to look at.

Belt up! THE Gurtel corruption case begat Barcenas and now the PP party’s

Backhanded favour JOSE Maria Aznar ostensibly snubbed Mariano Rajoy by not attending the recent PP party conference in Valladolid. There are those who feel the former president did his former protégé a favour by not turning up. Aznar’s disapproval will have done Rajoy a power of good with the voters he needs most, the undecided Centre.

ex-treasurer Barcenas is in prison and singing like a canary. Corruption has always been endemic in pre- and postdemocracy Spain. Franco, held not to be personally corrupt, let those around him wallow in sleaze as perks of the job. Felipe Gonzalez, the first PSOE president, did likewise. Cases like Filesa and Flick come to mind, plus millions of public money filched by Luis Roldan, director general of the Guardia Civil between 1986 and 1993. All of which goes to show that if there’s a bob or two to be made, some Spanish politicians are as likely to make it as denounce it. Interestingly, Francisco Correa the man whose surname translates as Gurtel in German was gradually inched out once Mariano Rajoy took over from Jose Maria Aznar at the head of the PP. Correa nevertheless maintained his contacts and his power to corrupt in the Valencian Community. Go figure, as an American would say.

Copyright: Shelly Wall.

It will be a firm resolve

BETTER LOOKING: Princess Letizia and Queen Sofia.

Passports please! ARTUR MAS has set his compass and Cataluña’s for a faraway land called ‘Independence.’ He could be heading for shipwreck but so far is determined not to alter course. Or, possibly, is unable to. Pro and contra arguments

abound, including one from Andalucia’s regional president Susana Diaz who pointed out that many Catalans, their parents or grandparents are Andalucia-born. Following putative secession, they would be foreigners she said. She’s right. Catalans going back to see ‘los yayos’ in the holidays would have to produce passports on entering Andalucia as the Schengen agreement would be void on leaving Spain and the EU.

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OPINION & COMMENT

™

Be my Valentine? Count me out! Nora Johnson

Breaking Views A Costa del Sol resident for a number of years, Nora is the author of psychological suspense and crime thrillers. To comment on any of the issues raised in her column, go to www.euroweeklynews.com/columnists/ nora-johnson

™ V

ALENTINE’S DAY’S upon us once more and there’ll be hardly a restaurant that won’t be marking the occasion. Even those that are barely furnished, with marble floors and no curtains, carpets or cushions to absorb noise. Hardly conducive to a quiet, discreet romantic evening, eh? And then there’s the ridiculously overpriced menu typical of the event. (Possibly the world’s most expensive Valentine’s Day menu yet was recently unveiled in the UK with a stomach-churning price tag of £61,000. Prepared at your home and accompanied by a harpist, poet and white doves, the meal features white caviar, gold leaf and endangered bluefin tuna.) But really, how can people bear to go

spotting those who are, err, having an affair (reaching for the mobile phone when their dinner date briefly leaves the table always a good clue) and the couple who make just too much of a show of being in love. But you’ll find even favourite local restaurants cashing in, demanding higher prices for pared-down set menus. The atmosphere, though, far from romantic, in a room with extra tables squeezed in full of couples banging elbows with the next couple to a Barry Manilow soundtrack. My advice, then, is never to dine out on Valentine’s Day. The service is often under DINE OUT: pressure, expectations are unfeasibly high Enjoy any night and getting a table for two a bit like trying but the 14th. to get Beyoncé to keep her clothes on. Buy yourselves something really special from out on Valentine’s night? the butcher’s or the fishmonger’s, a nice Prescribed romance, the horrible bottle or three of something you both like tackiness of it all (themed menus, and have a cosy night in - and try to ignore heart-shaped balloons, too much the hard sell all around! So, this year, what are your plans? Go for pink and red) and lots of couples sitting there with nothing to say a run. Go to the cinema. Go anywhere but to a restaurant. Dining out is fine. On the to each other. Ugh! On the other hand, there can 13th and 15th. Nora Johnson’s thrillers ‘Retribution’, be some sport to be had if you do find yourself in such a place. ‘Soul Stealer’, ‘The De Clerambault Code’ Spotting the couple who (www.nora-johnson.com) available from actually detest each other, Amazon and iBookstore. Profits to Cudeca.

The History of the FIFA World Cup The 1954 Tournament in Switzerland By Tony Matthews FOR 1954, FIFA used a unique format. The 16 qualifying countries were divided into four groups of four, with two seeded teams and two unseeded teams in each. The four groups comprised: (1) Brazil, France, Mexico, Yugoslavia; (2) Hungary, Korea Republic, Turkey, West Germany; (3) Austria, Czechoslovakia, Scotland, Uruguay and (4) Belgium, England, Italy and Switzerland. After drawing 4-4 with Belgium and beating the host nation 2-0, England qualified for the last eight along with Austria, Brazil, Hungary, Switzerland, Uruguay, West Germany and Yugoslavia. Unfortunately, Scotland lost both their matches, 7-0 against Uruguay and 1-0 versus Austria. Uruguay knocked England out 4-2 in the quarter-finals, while Austria won a 12-goal thriller against the Swiss by 7-5, Hungary beat Brazil 4-2 and the

Germans ousted Yugoslavia 2-0. Thirteen more goals were scored in the semi-finals as Germany beat Austria 6-1 and Hungary took out Uruguay 4-2. This set up a grand final between Germany and Hungary, whose team of Puskas, Hideghuti, Bozsik, Koscis and company, had belted England 6-3 and 71 in two friendlies during the 1953-54 season. And in an earlier group game Germany had actually been thumped 83 by the Magyars. But two football matches are never the same and after going 2-0 down in the final in Berne, before a 60,000 crowd, Germany came roaring back to cause a major upset by winning 3-2 with the Walter brothers leading them home. The average attendance at each WC games was over 36,000 and Sandor Koscis of Hungary was top-scorer with 11 goals. * Next: 1958 in Sweden and a first triumph for Pele.

OPINION & COMMENT

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Charity Inc. Mike Walsh Mike Walsh. Based in Mediterranean Spain, is an international journalist, author and professional writer.

D

epressingly I wasn’t surprised when a ghost-writing client of Zambian origin revealed tricks used by missionaries to melt hearts and open wallets of gullible Europeans. Like rural life in Europe, country life in 1970s central Africa was basic but selfsustaining. On the whole life was fulfilling and no one starved. The church missionaries would have it otherwise but then they would wouldn’t they. The small African child was thrilled. Such was her doe-eyed appeal, she had been chosen by her priest to have her photograph taken for an appeals brochure. Excitedly, Nina scrubbed up a treat, chose

CHARITABLE: There are times when it can be difficult. her best Sunday frock and pulled on polished shoes before running to the missionary station. “We won’t take photographs today, Nina.” Nina says: “He studied my face as he sensed how upset I was.” “Come again tomorrow but put on your old clothes. It is not necessary for you to wear nice clothes and you don’t have to wear shoes.” I was confused. “You look too smart, too nice, Nina. The sponsors in Italy won’t send you money for school if you look like this.” Dejected but trusting, Nina the next day changed herself into a dirty and desperate looking child. Wearing an old torn frock the child was shoeless and unwashed when she presented herself at the missionary door.

“Don’t smile!’ said Father Domenico. ‘A sad face! Ready?” Click. Nina says, “Years later, when I looked at my pictures I saw a sad child with her face devoid of hope. In reality, I was not like that at all. “To the outside world, we seemed to live hopeless and desperate lives.” Given forms to fill in Nina was instructed to tick the box that described her as an orphan. Her family were very much alive. The child protested but the kindly priest’s persuasions won the day. He told her that unless she was an orphan they could

not find someone to sponsor her. Buses filled with musungu call regularly at African villages. This is the name given to poverty tourists. Village amateur actors play to their audience. The tourists get their photographs, the villagers their paltry rewards; everyone is happy. Those humouring musungu are mocked by those villagers who refuse to debase themselves. It was recently revealed that Comic Relief is sitting on £100 million. It invests heavily in the arms, tobacco and alcohol

industries. The top tiers of charity conglomerate directors pay themselves eye-watering salaries plus expenses. One charitable head of a household name charity is rewarded over $1 million each year. Typically and dishearteningly only 8 per cent of monies collected of one well regarded cancer charity go to those who are doing the suffering. The Chief-Executive Officer of UNICEF pockets $485k each year and travels in cars we use just once in a lifetime - when we marry. There are times when it is difficult to be charitable.

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Thursday BBC1/ 4:00pm Perfection 4:45pm Escape to the Country 5:30pm Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News at Six 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm EastEnders 9:00pm Pound Shop Wars 9:30pm Inspector George Gently 11:00pm BBC News at Ten 11:25pm BBC London News 11:35pm Question Time

BBC2/ 5:00pm Winter Olympics 8:30pm Winter Olympics 9:00pm The Hairy Bikers' Asian Adventure 10:00pm Bible Hunters 11:00pm Charlie Brooker's Weekly Wipe 11:30pm Newsnight

ITV/ 4:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 5:00pm Britain's Best Bakery 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV News and Weather 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Tonight 9:00pm Emmerdale 9:30pm Birds of a Feather 10:00pm Benidorm 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:35pm The Cube

CH4/ 4:10pm Countdown 5:00pm Deal or No Deal 6:00pm Come Dine with Me 6:30pm Coach Trip 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Supersize v Superskinny 10:00pm Big Ballet 11:00pm Bodyshockers

ITV2/ 4:05pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 5:10pm The Real Housewives of New Jersey 6:05pm The Millionaire Matchmaker 7:00pm Dinner Date 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 8:30pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 10:00pm The Big Reunion 11:00pm Fake Reaction 11:50pm Mom

Friday

SATELLITE CHANNELS - SkyMoviesAction/

BBC1/ 4:00pm Perfection 4:45pm Escape to the Country 5:30pm Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News at Six 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm A Question of Sport 9:00pm EastEnders 9:30pm Room 101 10:00pm New Tricks 11:00pm BBC News at Ten 11:25pm BBC London News 11:35pm The Graham Norton Show

BBC2/ 4:40pm Winter Olympics 8:10pm Winter Olympics 9:00pm Mastermind 9:30pm An Island Parish 10:00pm Mock the Week 10:30pm QI 11:00pm Alan Davies Apres-Ski 11:30pm Newsnight

ITV/ 4:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 5:00pm Britain's Best Bakery 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV News and Weather 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm Student Nurses: Bedpans and Bandages 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm Piers Morgan's Life Stories 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:35pm The Americans

CH4/ 4:10pm Countdown 5:00pm Deal or No Deal 6:00pm Come Dine with Me 6:30pm Coach Trip 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast 10:00pm Peter Kay: Live and Back on Nights! 11:00pm The Last Leg 11:50pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine

ITV2/ 4:05pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 5:10pm The Real Housewives of New Jersey 6:05pm The Millionaire Matchmaker 7:00pm Dinner Date 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 9:30pm Two and a Half Men 10:00pm Bridget Jones's Diary

TV LISTING

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8:30pm Sunday • Robert Downey Jr. • Gwyneth Paltrow • Don Cheadle • Guy Pearce

Saturday BBC1/ 5:30pm Final Score 6:15pm Reflex 7:00pm BBC News 7:10pm Regional News 7:15pm Weather 7:20pm Pointless 8:10pm The Voice UK 9:30pm The National Lottery: Who Dares Wins 10:20pm Casualty 11:10pm Mrs. Brown's Boys 11:40pm BBC News

BBC2/ 5:30pm Winter Olympics 8:00pm Winter Olympics 9:00pm Top Gear 10:00pm True Grit 11:45pm QI XL

ITV/ 5:20pm Local News and Weather 5:30pm ITV News and Weather 5:45pm The FA Cup 8:20pm Splash! 9:50pm Take Me Out 11:05pm The Jonathan Ross Show

CH4/ 5:10pm Come Dine with Me 5:40pm Come Dine with Me 6:10pm Come Dine with Me 6:40pm Come Dine with Me 7:15pm Come Dine with Me 7:45pm Channel 4 News 8:05pm The Restoration Man 9:00pm Walking Through History 10:00pm Hostages 11:00pm Inglourious Basterds

ITV2/ 4:20pm Horrid Henry: The Movie 5:20pm FYI Daily 5:25pm Horrid Henry: The Movie 6:15pm The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas 7:15pm FYI Daily 7:20pm The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas 8:00pm Rumour Has It... 9:00pm FYI Daily 9:05pm Rumour Has It... 10:00pm Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason 11:00pm FYI Daily 11:05pm Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason

Tuesday BBC1/

Iron Man 3 (Film, 2013) Still tormented by his brush with death after aliens attacked New York City, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) has fallen far from the heroic Iron Man figure the public know and love. But when maniacal terrorist The Mandarin (Ben Kingsley) destroys his home and wounds his chief of security (Jon Favreau), Stark suits up and attempts to find a way to get even.

Sunday BBC1/ 4:30pm Hidden Kingdoms 5:30pm Lifeline 5:40pm Songs of Praise 6:15pm Pointless 7:05pm BBC News 7:20pm Regional News 7:25pm Weather 7:30pm Blandings 8:00pm Countryfile 9:00pm Call the Midwife 10:00pm The British Academy Film Awards

BBC2/ 5:00pm Winter Olympics 8:00pm Winter Olympics 9:00pm Top Gear 10:00pm Dragons' Den 11:00pm Alan Davies ApresSki 11:30pm Line of Duty

ITV/ 4:50pm Splash! 6:20pm You've Been Framed! 6:50pm Local News and Weather 7:00pm ITV News and Weather 7:15pm Dancing on Ice 8:45pm All Star Family Fortunes 9:30pm Dancing on Ice 10:00pm Mr Selfridge 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:15pm Birds of a Feather 11:45pm The FA Cup

CH4/ 4:20pm Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World 6:00pm Deal or No Deal 7:00pm Channel 4 News 7:30pm Gulliver's Travels 9:00pm Scandimania 10:00pm Red

ITV2/ 4:00pm FYI Daily 4:05pm Garfield 2: A Tail of Two Kitties 4:40pm The Mighty Ducks 5:40pm FYI Daily 5:45pm The Mighty Ducks 6:50pm The Perfect Man 7:50pm FYI Daily 7:55pm The Perfect Man 9:00pm You've Been Framed! 10:00pm Ocean's Eleven 11:00pm FYI Daily

Monday BBC1/ 5:30pm Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News 7:30pm Regional News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm Inside Out 9:00pm EastEnders 9:30pm Panorama 10:00pm Britain's Great War 11:00pm BBC News

BBC2/ 5:00pm Winter Olympics 8:00pm Winter Olympics 9:00pm University Challenge 9:30pm Food and Drink 10:00pm Horizon 11:00pm The Culture Show

ITV/ 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm Local News and Weather 7:30pm ITV News and Weather 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm A Great Welsh Adventure with Griff Rhys Jones 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm DCI Banks 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather

CH4/ 5:30pm Come Dine with Me 6:00pm Coach Trip 6:30pm Superstar Dogs 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Dispatches 9:30pm Benefits Street: The Last Word 10:00pm Benefits Britain: The Debate 11:00pm 8 Out of 10 Cats

ITV2/ 5:10pm The Real Housewives of New Jersey 6:05pm The Millionaire Matchmaker 7:00pm Dinner Date 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 8:30pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 9:30pm Two and a Half Men 10:00pm Mom 10:30pm Dads

4:00pm Escape to the Country 4:45pm James Martin: Home Comforts 5:30pm Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News 7:30pm Regional News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm EastEnders 9:00pm Holby City 10:00pm Death in Paradise 11:00pm BBC News 11:25pm Regional News 11:30pm Weather, Followed by 11:35pm Traffic Cops

BBC2/ 5:00pm Winter Olympics 8:00pm Winter Olympics Today at the Games. 9:00pm The Great British Sewing Bee 10:00pm This World Special 11:00pm House of Fools 11:30pm Newsnight

ITV/ 4:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm Local News and Weather 7:30pm ITV News and Weather 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm UEFA Champions League 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:35pm UEFA Champions League

CH4/ 4:30pm Deal or No Deal 5:30pm Come Dine with Me 6:00pm Coach Trip 6:30pm Superstar Dogs 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Location, Location, Location 10:00pm The Taste 11:00pm Sexting Teacher

ITV2/ 4:05pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 5:10pm The Real Housewives of New Jersey 6:05pm The Millionaire Matchmaker 7:00pm Dinner Date 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 10:00pm Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason 11:00pm FYI Daily 11:05pm Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason

Wednesday BBC1/ 4:00pm Escape to the Country 4:45pm James Martin: Home Comforts 5:30pm Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News 7:30pm Regional News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm Pound Shop Wars 9:00pm Waterloo Road 10:00pm Outnumbered 10:30pm Mrs. Brown's Boys 11:00pm BBC News 11:25pm Regional News 11:30pm Weather, Followed by the National Lottery Update 11:35pm A Question of Sport

BBC2/ 5:00pm Winter Olympics 8:30pm Winter Olympics 9:00pm The Restaurant Man 10:00pm Line of Duty 11:00pm Inside No 9 11:30pm Newsnight

ITV/ 4:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm Local News and Weather 7:30pm ITV News and Weather 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm The Brit Awards 2014 11:15pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:50pm The Jonathan Ross Show

CH4/ 4:30pm Deal or No Deal 5:30pm Come Dine with Me 6:00pm Coach Trip 6:30pm Superstar Dogs 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm The Restoration Man 10:00pm 24 Hours in A and E 11:00pm First Dates

ITV2/ 4:05pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 5:10pm The Real Housewives of New Jersey 6:05pm The Millionaire Matchmaker 7:00pm Dinner Date 8:00pm The Brit Awards 2014: Red Carpet 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 9:30pm Two and a Half Men 10:00pm Benidorm 11:00pm The Hot Desk 11:15pm The Brit Awards 2014: Backstage

36

E W N 13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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OPINION & COMMENT

Francisco Zurbaran, Artist or Fashion Designer? Peter Fieldman London-born journalist and author, Peter spends his time between Paris and Madrid. His novel ‘1066 The Conquest’ available on Amazon or www.1066TheConquest.com

www.pfieldman.blogspot.com

F

RANCISCO ZURBARAN may not be as universally renowned as some of his contemporaries, Murillo, Ribera, Alonso Cano and Velazquez, but he was undoubtedly one of the leading artists of the golden age of Spanish Art during the first half of the 17th century. Born in Fuente de Cantos, Extremadura, on November 7, 1598, he showed an aptitude for art at an early age and when he was 16, his father, a merchant, sent him to Sevilla to become apprentice to the artist, Pedro Diaz de Villanueva. His first works, commissioned by religious orders, depicted monks, priests and virgin saints in monasteries and churches wearing their austere robes. He became known as the Spanish Caravaggio with his use of the techniques of chiaroscuro contrasting the white robes of monks against dark backgrounds, excelling in his treatment of draperies with deep folds. At the height of his fame in or about 1630, Zurbaran embarked on a series of paintings which were radically different to all the other works he had produced. They also differentiated totally from the works of his contemporaries and went against all the rules laid down by the Catholic Church. Working with his apprentices in Sevilla, he began a collection of portraits depicting martyred virgin saints. An unconventional approach But instead of the traditional portraits of priests or saints in religious attire, the artist embarked on a totally original approach depicting his saints as elegant young women wearing beautifully designed clothes. In addition he did not restrict his ideas to small scale canvases but created life size portraits with a remarkable attention to detail like a fashion designer. The paintings shocked Spanish society at the time. Although Zurbaran ensured each saint held religious items and symbols of torture in the form of palms, baskets of fruit and flowers, prayer

Santa Casilda of Toledo XI/XII century c 1630-35 courtesy of Museo Thyssen Bornamisza, Madrid.

Santa Apolonia of Alexandria III century c 1635 courtesy of Louvre, Paris.

Santa Isabel of Portugal XIII/X1V century c 1635 courtesy of Museo del Prado, Madrid.

books, arrows, swords, nails and crooks, none showed any sign of the suffering or pain they would have endured before their death. Critics at the time were divided. Opponents, used to conventional images of a religious nature, accused him of being indecent, dressing up martyrs in such an extravagant fashion, while an influential nun, Sister Juana de San Antonio, described them as: “The most beautiful thing human eyes have seen. Such gentle bodies, such verve, adorned with pearls and precious jewels.” Zurbaran is supposed to have answered his critics by saying that by giving his saints a more realistic and modern appearance it would help foment devotion by believers. One of his major works, The Temptation of Saint Jerome, c 1639, which is in the Guadalupe Monastery, demonstrates his unconventional views and rebellious attitude to the Catholic church by showing the barely clothed Saint Jerome being tempted by several beautifully dressed ladies carrying musical instruments. The paintings of the Saints were undertaken between 1630 and 1650 and most were probably commissioned. They were chosen from virgin saints who had become martyrs over a period spanning more than 1,000 years between the

second and 15th centuries originating from Spain, Flanders, Italy, Portugal and Turkey. The only exceptions were Santa Matilda and Santa Isabel of Portugal who were from noble families. Their royal marriages had made them Queens and they had given birth to children. That is why they are depicted with crowns.

serene, almost contemporary portraits in their variety of costumes and colours, have had a profound influence on many modern couturiers including Balenciaga, who once used the dress of Santa Casilda as a model for his fashions.

Zurbaran’s designs Nothing seemed to curb Zurbaran’s imagination in the way he designed the clothes and coiffures for his Saints, each wearing a different costume. Some are dressed in full length skirts, robes, draperies with deep folds, ornate patterns, delicate fabrics, embroidered edges and exquisite colours, while others are depicted in plain dresses and tunics to reflect their more austere origins. The Saints are also adorned with accessories in the form of hats, belts, jewellery and the religious symbols, which are an important element of the works relating to their martyrdom. Like modern day fashion photographers, Zurbaran used dark backgrounds to emphasise the details and colours of the clothes and his avant-garde models, identifying each Saint with their names discreetly added. Almost four hundred years after they first shocked Spanish society, these

Seventeen of the known 23 Saints still in existence were reunited last summer in Sevilla at the Espacio Santa Clara for a remarkable exhibition in which well known fashion designers were invited to emulate Zurbaran’s creations with models wearing exotic clothes, enabling visitors to compare their designs with those of Zurbaran dating from the 17th century. A leading couturier described Zurbaran as Spain’s greatest fashion designer, inventing and creating costumes which had never previously existed and using the martyred virgins as fashion models. Today, Zurbaran’s Saints are in public and private collections in London, Italy, France, Ireland, New York and naturally in Spain, where the Fine Arts Museum in Sevilla has managed to conserve the largest collection of these unique and exquisite portraits. For the first time, Belgium is hosting a major exhibition of Zurbaran’s works. It is being held at the Beaux Arts Museum in Brussels and runs until May.

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E W N 13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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OPINION & COMMENT

A case of woo or woe on you this Valentine Ulrica Marshall

Expat Strife Swedish-born Ulrica is a freelance journalist living in Mallorca with her family. Her debut novel $Expat Wives is available on Amazon and iBooks. To comment on any of the issues raised in Ulrica’s column, go to www.euroweeklynews.com/columnists/ulrica-marshall

ulrica@euroweeklynews.com

I

N every shop window, fluffy toy dogs and bears wielding a red heart stare back at

you. In the supermarket, row upon row is dedicated to dainty boxes of chocolates, cutesy sweets and pink fizz of all descriptions. Meanwhile, restaurants remind us to book their special candle-lit 20course tasting menu early to avoid disappointment (theirs presumably). The question is: Are you embracing or studiously ignoring Saint Valentine this year? Today’s commercial celebration of February 14 is an odd leap from the eponymous Roman saint who died on this day sometime during the third century. It was not until 16

SPLASH OUT: Wine and dine your loved one this Valentine’s Day. centuries later that the Brits fell in love with the idea of Valentine’s cards and letters, peppered with loving verses. The rest, as they say, is history. But regardless of history, celebrating Valentine’s Day

seems to have suffered some sad setbacks in an apparent backlash at the ‘establishment’, typically alongside stoic declarations of ‘I’m not giving in to this commercial nonsense’ or ‘we can celebrate any day.’

But will we, really? Isn’t romance and wooing each other the first thing to fall by the wayside once fatigue sets in or the monotony of daily life takes over? Perhaps we really do need a reminder after all.

And if your wife or partner tells you that she doesn’t care for flowers, gems or a dinner tête-à-tête, then I would suggest she may be saying it to please you. Chances are that while you are congratulating yourself for not falling for such commercial traps, she is ruefully listening to a friend gushing over a romantic city break or showing off a pretty bracelet. And while some egalitarian readers may object, claiming that the responsibility lays squarely on both sets of shoulders, I admit to being old-fashioned in my expectations of courting. So why not throw caution, and perhaps a little cash, to the wind and wine and dine the love of your life this Valentine’s. If not, what is the point of it all?

*Article not sponsored by the Spanish Federation of Restaurateurs but writer will happily accept donations.

OPINION & COMMENT

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13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

EWN

43

To charge or not to charge? This week we focus on how emergency services in the Valencia region will begin charging for avoidable rescue operations (irresponsible activity triggering forest fires, helicopter rescues for hikers who ignore weather warnings, etc).

E

NID Manning, 76 is retired in Albox (Almeria). She says, “I think they should be charged, they should take more care and not waste time or money. Somebody else might need an ambulance desperately.” Agreeing with her is Juan Perez, a 45-year-old businessman from Benidorm (Alicante) who believes in the fines: “Yes, it is their fault for getting themselves in that situation by ignoring warnings and taking unnecessary risk. And with pranks, somebody may need these services while they are responding to a wild goose chase.” Maria Jose

Should the regional government make individuals pay for avoidable rescue services? What do you think of people who use emergency services that might have been avoidable or call 112 as a prank?

STREET TALK Pizarra, a 42-year-old shopkeeper in Benalmadena (Malaga) also agreed saying, “Yes, people should pay for avoidable services. These are their personal choices, and it shouldn’t end up as a cost to the public.” Aneta Simko, aged 33, from Poland and now living in Benissa (Alicante) said: “I think it is quite normal they charge for avoidable rescue operations. I like climbing and hiking and I pay an insurance that covers mountain risks if anything happens.” But she added that she understands people sometimes panic and call 112 services for avoidable causes. In principle, Carole Woodley, 67, from Torrevieja (Alicante), agrees in some kind of deterrent but is concerned at how it would be policed: “Those calling 112 for fun should definitely be fined and forced to pay, but are more resources then spent trying to track them down and find them?”

On the other side is Chris Taylor, 72 in Arboleas (Almeria). “I don’t think people plan to have an accident or illness, so they shouldn’t charge. Are they going to leave people who don’t have a bank card?” Dale Saxon (50), retired in Albox (Almeria) agrees: “I don’t agree with charging people, they don’t set out to get lost on purpose. As far as people who DALE SAXON: phone the People don’t emergency get lost on services as a purpose, so prank, I think it is they shouldn’t disgraceful.” be punished for it.

ANETA SIMKO: People should be charged for avoidable rescue operations.

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E W N 13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

CROSSWORDS

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Time Out EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREAK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

Almería weather

NEW ON DVD MADDOCKS’ VIEW ON LIFE

for next 7 days

Captain Philips The film is based on the real life hijacking of a US cargo ship by Somali pirates. The Maersk Alabama became the first US cargo ship to be hijacked in 200 years when heavily armed Somalis boarded the vessel on the 8th of April 2009. As commander of the ship, Captain Richard Phillips inevitably found himself at the heart of events. Held hostage by the pirates under the command of Muse, Phillips attempts to protect both his crew and ship to the best of his ability. However, as the drama plays out and Phillips spends more time in the company of his Somali captors, he gradually comes to realise that they have a story, too.

TODAY

VELEZ RUBIO

TOMORROW HUERCAL OVERA

ALBOX

VELEZ RUBIO GARRUCHA ALBOX MOJACAR

ALMERIA

HUERCAL OVERA

RETAMAR GARRUCHA

ADRA

ROQUETAS

Starring Tom Hanks, Catherine Keener and Max Martini. Directed by Paul Greengrass. Runtime 134 minutes. Rated 12.

MOJACAR ALMERIA RETAMAR ADRA

memoirs, for instance, take up a craft or paint. Learning a new language would also be satisfying. Certainly, food for the brain and soul are what you should be seeking now.

ARIES (March 21 - April 20) A conversation with a colleague brings insights into how others live and it is quite an eye-opener. Friendships are particularly important this week. You have been dashing around and maybe not enough thought has gone into how you spend your leisure time.

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) There may be some opposition to your ideas as Pluto turns this week. Perhaps your natural charm just

TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) There is something in you that needs a creative outlet. Perhaps you would like to write a book:

6-Star Quiz Gents 1. How old was the former South African president, Nelson Mandela, when he died in December? 2. Journalist, comedian, writer, media personality and television host Sir David Frost, who died in August, first rose to prominence in the UK when he was chosen to host which satirical television programme in 1962? 3. Left-wing politician, Hugo Chávez, who died in March, had been president of which republic in northern South America from 1999 to 2013? 4. Musician Lou Reed, who died in October, was the guitarist, vocalist, and principal songwriter of which famous American rock band from 1964 to 1970? 5. The American politician Edward Irving ‘Ed’ Koch, who died in February, had been mayor of which US city from 1978 to 1989? 6. Welsh rugby player and broadcaster Cliff Morgan, who died in August, principally played in which position for Cardiff, Wales and the British Lions?

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Being very much in demand for your talents this week means less time to spend socially, so it's important to make time for loved ones at the weekend. Someone seeking your advice may simply be seeking your approval for an action they are going to take anyway.

66

Mayra Gomez Kemp. Born February 14, 1948. Cuban-born Mayra Gomez Kemp is a Spanish actress, singer and TV presenter. She is known to Spanish audiences for hosting the game show Un, Dos, Tres... in six of its 10 seasons. She battled against tongue and throat cancer. She won the fight against them, although they affected her speech.

doesn't seem to be working. As you have helped others in the past, make it clear that you expect a bit of co-operation. It is not through lack of will that some people do not offer help.

looking to money-making ideas to progress finances, think also of alternatives. Perhaps there are areas of your lifestyle where money could be saved. Items that are not used could be sold for a profit and rid you of clutter.

LEO (July 24 - August 23) This is a week when progress is fast and plans run ahead. Try new ideas and seek information to hone your knowledge. An organisation that is new to you offers insight and social involvement. An offer that thrusts you into the limelight might be avoided at first but would be to your advantage.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Having suffered a bit of a setback last week, you may be feeling less confident. Revving up your social life will certainly help to bring spirits up again. Be with people who liven or inspire you in some way and avoid boring or moaning folk. SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Thoughts come to you, perhaps in dreams, that are creative and energy boosting. Someone who recently moved out of your sphere is sadly missed but is in some ways still a part of you. A person at work who has been causing you concern needs investigation, but the facts may be less alarming than you suspect.

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Although you have perhaps been

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 December 21) A strong and exciting romantic feeling flows through the week, which is fitting as Valentine's Day comes round again. Someone returning from a trip makes you smile and boosts your spirit. People who have been a little bossy of late finally realise that you will not rise to the bait.

Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3X3 box contains the digits 1-9. There’s no maths involved. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

CAPRICORN (December 22 January 20) It's a better week for travel with less likelihood of delays. Should you be feeling a little lethargic and sorry about recent events, just count your blessings. Consider raising some money and having fun at the same time by indulging in a garage or car boot sale. Doing something entirely different can boost your mind and activity levels, which can't be bad.

UK NATIONAL LOTTERY

UK THUNDERBALL

IRISH LOTTO

EURO MILLIONS

Saturday February 8

Saturday February 8

Saturday February 8

Friday February 7

27

36

39

44

4

5 30

16 38

7

11

16

17

36

44

BONUS BALL

THUNDERBALL

BONUS BALL

4

1

6

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

3

17 46

47

10

LA PRIMITIVA

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Fri Sat Sun -

MAX MIN

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Mon - 14 9 S Tues - 14 8 C Wed - 14 8 C

17 11 C 16 9 C 14 8 C

Fri Sat Sun -

18 12 Cl 17 11 Sh 16 10 S

MAX MIN

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Mon - 17 10 Cl Tues - 17 10 C Wed - 17 10 Sh

Mallorca 18 11 C 19 11 Cl 14 9 Sh S Sun,

14 8 Sh 12 4 C 12 3 Cl

MAX MIN

Mon - 12 3 Cl Tues - 12 2 Sh Wed - 13 4 Sh

Murcia

CLOUDY MAX 18C, MIN 12C MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Mon - 14 12 S Tues - 15 12 Cl Wed - 15 11 S

CLOUDY MAX 13C, MIN 11C

TODAY:

MAX 19C, MIN 12C

MAX MIN

TODAY:

MAX MIN

18 14 C 17 3 C 15 12 C

Madrid

Malaga CLOUDY

Mon - 16 11 S Tues - 17 12 C Wed - 17 11 Cl

CLOUDY MAX 18C, MIN 14C

TODAY:

CLOUDY MAX 17C, MIN 11C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

19 14 S 19 12 Cl 17 11 C

Benidorm

Barcelona TODAY:

CLOUDY MAX 20C, MIN 14C MAX MIN

Mon - 16 10 S Tues - 17 11 Cl Wed - 17 9 S

21 13 C 21 11 C 17 11 C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Mon - 14 10 Cl Tues - 14 10 C Wed - 14 10 Cl Cl Clear,

CLOUDY MAX 24C, MIN 10C MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun Fog,

Sn Snow,

MAX MIN

25 10 C 23 9 C 18 8 C

Mon - 17 8 S Tues - 18 9 Cl Wed - 18 8 Cl

C Cloud,

Sh Showers,

Th Thunder

Nonagram How many English words of four letters or more can you make from the nine letters in our Nonagram puzzle? Each letter may be used only once (unless the letter appears twice). Each word MUST CONTAIN THE CENTRE LETTER (in this case G) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

TARGET:

Average: 9

Very good: 17

Good: 12

Excellent: 21

dirt, foot, fort, frit, rift, riot, root, tiro, tori, trio, trod, trow, wort, writ, drift, droit, toroid, DRIFTWOOD

4

7

22

29

30

40

REINTEGRO 33

8

EL GORDO DE LA PRIMITIVA

MALE

Sunday February 9

Saturday February 8

19

LUCKY STARS 9

TODAY:

Word Ladder

LOTTERY 25

Almeria

CLOUDY MAX 22C, MIN 12C

MAX MIN

Sudoku

8

Alicante TODAY:

14

23 31

26 36

REINTEGRO 8

FERN

Move from the start word (MALE) to the end word (FERN) in the same number of steps as there are rungs on the Word Ladder. You must only change one letter at a time.

TARN TERN FERN

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Satisfaction with your love life is paramount this week, and the opinion of others seems important to you. Perhaps you are looking for an excuse to make a change. It is possible, however, that a change is not required so much as a different approach. It is not essential to put all your eggs in one basket.

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN IN 2013

Your Stars

IF ITʼS YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK Possibly you did not imagine how active the new year would be. You are already needing to pull in the reins. Be careful what you wish for because this year it could come true.

MALE TALE TARE

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) Spirituality seeps right through the week. As you are feeling particularly sensuous, invite someone special to dinner or on a trip. Visit garden centres and plan ahead. The colours and perfumes will be particularly pleasing.

ROQUETAS

1. 95, 2. THAT WAS THE WEEK THAT WAS, 3. VENEZUELA, 4. VELVET UNDERGROUND, 5. NEW YORK, 6. FLY HALF

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CROSSWORDS

Crosswords

13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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45

SPONSORED BY

For more information about the sponsor go to www.lineadirecta.com

Cryptic

Quick

Across 1 Stretch your neck to see the bird (5) 4 Butcher gets Ray wheels (7) 7 Drug addict ate holding order (7) 8 Flies the men only back north in (5) 10 Longs for a church to end service collections (5) 11 Made from English gravel (7) 12 Loose bit of lettuce contained in bag (5) 14 Reposition trees in a different order (5) 19 Lets the donkey have ornamental hanging tufts (7) 21 Fly military aircraft across Germany and Spain (5) 22 Post Office harbours stolen picture (5) 23 Love in everyone married is permissible (7) 24 Supposed itʼs erupted at sea (7) 25 Ladyʼs out, sorry to say (5) Down 2 Everybody goes round company house for a strong drink (7) 3 Seam bowling caught ten in Tests (5) 4 A country sounded musical (6) 5 Great, Iʼm dancing to jazz music (7) 6 Southern sound the airline never

Across 7 Dwell (6) 8 In a foreign country (6) 9 Not coarse or heavy (4) 10 Particular (8) 11 Final course (7) 13 Established (5) 15 Periodically repeated sequence of events (5) 17 Imaginative fiction (7) 20 Income (8) 21 Exchanged for money (4) 22 Madcap goings-on (6) 23 Ecstatically happy (6)

16 Refrain from piling up dishes (4) 17 Where gods live in Africaʼs Garden of Eden (6) 18 New deal for guide (4) 20 Dig out a story that make the headlines (5) 21 Manuscript about beer for men (5)

gives first (5) 7 Costly creature, reportedly (4) 9 Uses fabricated charges (4) 13 Cigar with revolutionary origin (7) 15 Gave gifts but in the end was in debt (7)

Code Breaker

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 4 represents C and 11 represents S, so fill in C every time the figure 4 appears and S every time the figure 11 appears. Now, using your knowledge of the English language, work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you discover the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and the control grid.

CRYPTIC Across: 1 Siskin, 4 Scout, 8 Cheat, 9 Adamant, 10 Extract, 11 Cone, 12 Emu, 14 Cede, 15 News, 18 Tad, 21 Oman, 23 Adhered, 25 Theseus, 26 Spade, 27 Hosts, 28 Vestas. Down: 1 Soccer, 2 Spectre, 3 Intranet, 4 Scar, 5 Otago, 6 Titled, 7 Caste, 13 Unchaste, 16 Warrant, 17 Hootch, 19 Daisy, 20 Adders, 22 Avers, 24 Keys. QUICK Across: 1 Static, 5 Safari, 8 Fair, 9 Red giant, 10 Genius, 11 Carbon, 12 Game, 14 Let, 15 Tiny, 16 Morass, 18 Latest, 20 Farthing, 22 Near, 23 Coarse, 24 Easily. Down: 2 Tease, 3 Termite, 4 Chrysalis, 5 Sad, 6 Friar, 7 Run-down, 11 Catalogue, 13 Avocado, 15 Tetanus, 17 Alter, 19 Shawl, 21 Ire.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

ENGLISH-SPANISH Across: 1 Tasty, 3 Gifts, 6 Rule, 7 Cabeza, 9 Camareras, 12 Amargo, 13 Leña, 14 Llave, 15 Ahora. Down: 1 Toro, 2 Salvajada, 3 Grapes, 4 Fregadero, 5 Star, 8 Sangre, 10 Ball, 11 Taza.

Funagram

Play on Words

English - Spanish The clues are mixed, some clues are in Spanish and some are in English. Across 1 Seas (5) 3 Pequeño (5) 5 Alquitrán (3) 7 Hilos (7) 9 Sello (personal, de rey) (4) 10 Cordero (4) 14 Clases (7) 15 Goose (domestic) (3) 16 Walk (stroll) (5) 17 Arches (5) Down 1 Motorcycles (5) 2 Mushroom (4) 3 Seguro (convencido) (4) 4 The (pl, f) (3) 6 Carreteras (5) 8 Roast (5) 11 Alubias (5) 12 Red (4) 13 Island (4) 14 Labio (3)

Hexagram The purpose of the Hexagram puzzle is to place the 19 six-letter words into the 19 cells. The letters at the edges of interlocking cells MUST BE THE SAME. The letters in the words must be written CLOCKWISE. The word in cell 10 (NEARER) and one letter in four other cells are given as clues. ADHERE

PIERCE

AWARDS

PRAYED

BREACH

RATTLE

CANDLE

REELED

HEARTS

RESENT

LEADER

RESTED

LEERED

SCARED

NEARER (10)

SEARED

NEEDED

SHARED

PEERED

Unscramble the name of a type of vegetable (two words): REAL LUCKY

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

NEPALED IS DEPALED

Answers: A friend in need is a friend indeed, Unfinished business

Unscramble the name of a famous BBC sitcom, first broadcast in 1990 (five words): NOT OF NEGATIVE HERO

Down 1 Relating to cats (6) 2 Alcoholic drink (4) 3 Size (7) 4 Desert ruminant (5) 5 Something continually annoying (8) 6 Containing salt (6) 12 Magnificent (8) 14 Burrowing rodent (7) 16 Pines for (6) 18 Gloomily angry and silent (6) 19 Acute anxiety (5) 21 Submerge in a liquid (4)

BUSINES

1 Rarely, 2 Reared, 3 Rugged, 4 Roared, 5 Thread, 6 Badger, 7 Coarse, 8 Seated, 9 Factor, 10 Shaken, 11 Awards, 12 Listen, 13 Basked, 14 Glossy, 15 Bugles, 16 Broken, 17 Sighed, 18 Banner, 19 Hurray

FUNAGRAM SOLUTION: CURLY KALE, ONE FOOT IN THE GRAVE

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E W N 13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de AlmerĂ­a

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SATELLITE SPECIAL

Worst has happened, but we have the TV answers...

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S far as many expatriate TV viewers are concerned, the big question is what can be done about it. In large parts of Southern Spain BBC free view channels disappeared from the screens last Thursday. Now ITV and Channel 4 have moved to the new Astra 2E satellite, making them inaccessible to many areas in Spain and other parts of Europe. At the time of going to press it was being reported that any remaining free channels will have been lost as the Astra 1N satellite was due to move to a new position. It has been a long time coming with a long lead-in, as a string of technical hitches postponed the dreaded move for the best

part of a year. But that has given many UK TV providers time to get ready with a host of answers for those who cannot bear a life without their dose of UK TV. This UK TV special from the EWN aims to give you the reader some of the best alternatives to traditional satellite TV. Different providers have different solutions, but what is certain is that much depends on the location of each individual householder. That is why it is important to call in a professional like one of those advertising in these pages. So pick up the phone and get a proper site survey done to see what the best solution for you is. You will find all the top service providers in this supplement.

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BBC disappears from TV screens in Southern Spain Richard Shanley

DISHING THE DIRT OF EUROPA DIGITAL

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XACTLY one week ago, the BBC moved all their TV and radio channels to the new Astra 2E satellite which has a much tighter footprint making them extremely difficult to pick up in Southern Spain. ITV and Channel 4 are due to follow suit but at the time of going to press were still available in some places. A lot of people use the UK terrestrial channels as a lifeline with the UK, to watch local regional news so are extremely concerned about the loss but the important thing is not to panic and rush into buying something

PRIME-TIME: The Voice UK is compulsive viewing for many on Saturday night. that may not be fit for purpose in the long term. We already have several options available but until extensive tests have been

carried out and all final adjustments have been made on the satellite, it is very difficult to know what to recommend.

Europa Digital have been operating in the Almeria area for 14 years so are not here today and gone

SATELLITE SPECIAL SUPERSTAR COACH: Kylie Minogue searches for The Voice UK. tomorrow. But we will not fit a new huge dish costing in excess of â‚Ź1,000 if it may not work within a few months. But to be honest this option is not for everyone, anyway. We have fitted more than 6,000 systems and I estimate that only 10-15 per cent of these would be suitable for an extremely large dish. You need your own property with lots of land as they must be concreted in so are not suitable for apartments or many types of flat roofs. Turn to Page 50

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SATELLITE SPECIAL

Solutions sought after favourite UK channels vanish from our screens From Page 48 Richard Shanley Other options include IPTV in which you stream the channels through the internet and you do not need a dish. On the face of it this seems a very sensible option (as long as you have internet at home) but I have a nagging worry concerning this. If everybody was attempting to stream at the same time would the internet infrastructure in the area be able to cope? Have you ever noticed for example how your internet speed drops at 3pm when the kids arrive back from school due to the traffic increase? Imagine thousands of people attempting to stream EastEnders at the same time. You can also use the Sky+ HD on demand system where all programmes can be downloaded to your planner to be watched later. I have been using this system myself for over six months and it is fantastic. However, you do need a Sky subscription, an internet connection and a dedicated UK router.

TOP GEAR Top Gear presenters James May (left) and Jeremy Clarkson (far right).

MISSED: Popular programmes.

It works brilliantly but is a different way of viewing as you watch everything a little later or the next day. Perfect for soaps and dramas but no good for sport, which is really the only thing anyone with a Sky+ box watches live anyway. If you have a tablet you can watch the BBC through an app called FilmOn and with Apple TV (a cheap inexpensive box approx €80) you can stream it wirelessly to your smart TV (iPads only) which is another option. As you can see from this article most of the solutions involve the internet. If you have a holiday home or rent one that does not have the internet and you can’t locate an extremely large dish, then your viewing days are certainly numbered. Until Europa Digital have exhaustively tested all of the available options once all the final satellite adjustments have been made, then they will be made available. If you are after a quick fix then you need to go to another company. For more information please call Europa Digital on 950 133 233

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SATELLITE SPECIAL

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Current options to switch back on... T

HOUSANDS of British television viewers have been twiddling their thumbs without the BBC since last Thursday morning’s satellite switch, followed by the loss of ITV and Channel 4 a few days later. The Euro Weekly News has received

one recommended by many specialist satellite shops, is to link your television to the British receivers using ‘IPTV’ or Internet Protocol Television. Programmes are delivered using the internet or a broadband connection; ideally you would need a 3MB internet speed. For those with poor internet connection, there are options to amplify your system, using an ‘MiFi’ router. MiFi is the brand name for portable devices from Novatel that work as mobile hotspots. They include a built-in modem plus a WiFi router. The IPTV option comes with an initial connection charge, plus a monthly subscription. Other areas may still be able to get a traditional satellite connection, depending on individual location. The EWN strongly recommends that viewers talk to a reputable UK TV specialist to find the solution that is best for them. For more detailed information and prices, contact your local UK TV specialist.

Internet Protocol Television or IPTV is one option. messages from readers in many European countries who have lost their UK television and are looking for alternatives. In Spain, the areas worst affected are the Costa del Sol and Almeria; in Mallorca reception was patchy initially after the new satellite came into use, although local professionals have assured us that the islands should still receive British television, but they may need to change the direction or size of their dish. The most popular option, and the

How will the loss of UK TV affect you? EWN went out on to the streets to find out what people think about the loss of UK TV in Southern Spain John Trujillo, originally from the Philippines, is a 39year-old café owner. He said: “As a café owner, I hope it will not affect business too much but the fact is it probably will. People want what they’re used to, and if I can’t provide the entertainment they want they will most likely go elsewhere. “So I need to look into what other options are out there to get the same service as before, just through other means. I think I’d probably go with IPTV rather than upgrade the satellite. I’ll probably need to switch internet providers in order to get a stronger connection, though.” Stephanie Hamilton, 35, is a graphic designer

SPECIAL STREET TALK

David Thompson originally from Manchester, and has been living in Fuengirola (Malaga) since 2008. She said: “I’m not terribly worried about it. I work long hours and while it’s good to have the same channels as I’ve been used to, it’s not like I am retired at home all day watching

Stephanie Hamilton the TV.” She also mentioned having a relatively strong internet connection at home: “I know there are options out there for switching to satellite, I just haven’t gotten around to it yet. And I’d never move back to the UK for TV, no way!”

John Trujillo Andy Castledine, 59, from Mojacar in Almeria is not all that bothered. “I will probably look at alternative solutions, but I am not home all that much. My community had some channels, not all, and I was happy with that. If the community can come up

with a solution then great, if not I will look around, but I do not want to spend too much money! I certainly will not be going back to the UK because of it.” Originally from Bristol, David Thompson, 48, is a doctor with two children, living near Marbella since 2010. David said: “It’s upsetting and it definitely affects us. As expats, family television shows are a way for British culture to be imparted to our kids that they obviously don’t get with Spanish TV. “That’s not to say that my wife won’t be happy that I’ll probably be spending less time in front of the TV. Maybe it will lead me to exercise a bit more! But we’d never move for TV. I work here, we live here, this is just one of those things that happen in life that you have to deal with.”

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SATELLITE SPECIAL

A world without soaps or Ant & Dec Laura Penn looks at a world without British TV IMAGINE a world without Ant & Dec, Holly & Pip, Brucie & Tess! Such horrors are causing panic amongst expats as the reality of TV channel loss starts to bite. The new satellite for UK TV services (Astra 2E) has finished its move westwards to its final broadcasting position and in large parts of the Costa del Sol and Almeria BBC, has been lost, with ITV and other public service channels also possibly due to go. No one is quite sure of the exact timescale yet but as the small screen version of the Sword of Damocles hangs menacingly over couch-patatas on the island of Mallorca, many Brits consider their options which include upgrading their dishes, abandoning satellite altogether for BBC and ITV or heading to the airport! Some shake their heads and predict a mass exodus from the area as life with sun and beaches is no compensation for the loss of Albert Square. One man told me with real fear in his eyes that his missus would force him to go back to Mansfield if she couldn’t watch her weekly Corry Orry omnibus. Of course, where there is an obsession

there is also a solution. It will be possible to get UK TV by subscribing to a professional internet streaming service and connecting an IPTV set-top box to your television, or maybe a bigger dish will do the trick depending on where you are. But IPTV is dependent on an internet connection which can be something of a luxury in parts of Spain, but to dedicated fans of TV X-Factor is better than EX-Factor! But it may be a factor in people moving back home. I know of many people who have had to relocate back to the UK as the economic downturn has meant making a living wage more and more impossible. For some not being able to watch their favourite TV may just be the final straw. This is very worrying as foreign residents create wealth with their demand for products and services, and a decrease in their numbers means a decrease in this demand, which in turn propels the economy in a downward spiral. Let’s hope that many emigrants will return when things improve. It is not all bad news as figures reveal that 60.4 million tourists visited Spain last year. It seems if you cannot stay, you can at least visit!

SATELLITE SPECIAL

www.euroweeklynews.com

Satellite communications: How did we get here? WE all enjoy communications products from high-powered satellites sent to space for telecommunications purposes. But did you know the background to this fascinating piece of technology the world today takes for granted? The idea is simple: by sending data up into space, it can be beamed back down to another spot on the globe. Echo 1 was sent 1,000 miles up into space in 1960. As a satellite prototype, it was a large metallic balloon that essentially served as a giant 10-storey mirror used to bounce communications off of. The world’s first active communications satellite, built by AT&T and Bell Laboratories, was launched in 1962. Live images of sports, entertainment and news were beamed live around the world for the first time. By receiving radio signals from the ground and then amplifying and retransmitting them over much of the earth’s surface, it set the standard.

A global industry developed in the 1970s as performance advances were quickly made. Video programming really took off when HBO began using satellites for delivering programming to US customers. Commercial and technical success went hand-in-hand. By the 1990s, satellite communications were actually the main means of TV programme distribution worldwide. The technology is astounding; in fact, one single satellite can easily cover an entire continent, like Telesat’s ‘Anik F3’ which covers North America. Today over one billion homes receive 25,000 different TV channels by satellite. Satellite coverage plays a key role in live coverage of world events like the World Cup and the Olympics. For normal television viewing, video channels broadcast by satellite are received by cable networks, broadcast networks, direct-tohome companies, and major sports and news companies.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

ealth & beauty H TO READ MORE VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.EWNLIFESTYLE.COM

Advertising feature

All you need to get all dressed up... HAVING only opened a few months ago, The Dressing Room in Turre has just expanded its premises as well as its range of fashionable clothing. Initially, the premises were shared by the owner’s husband Marc and his real estate agency, Paradise Properties. Now he has moved into the offices next door and Lois has taken over the space he used to occupy. “There was no doubt that I needed to expand in order to carry the ranges I needed for my customers,” said Lois. She added that she was delighted to be able to offer the CURVE Range, from AX Paris. It’s modern and up to date, and caters for women from size 16 up to size 26 and makes the most of their curvy figures. To complement the CURVE Range, The Dressing Room are

now stockists of top selling underwear brand, Janira®. Janira® specialise in support undergarments with their ‘Secrets’ range which flattens and lifts in all the right places. Also

available are support leggings, stockings, tights and lace underwear. The Dressing Room are also stockists of ONLY® and now VERO MODA®, both popular

PRETTY: Part of the CURVE range.

brands of fashionable ladies clothes here in Spain. They have a reputation for both quality and affordability. Some of the new ranges can be seen at the forthcoming fashion shows at Huercal Overa Tennis Club on 21st March and organised by The Dames of Huercal Overa, and also in Turre on 28th March at Greg & Co. More details are available from The Dames’ committee members, Greg Edwards and Lois HamiltonJones. Last but by no means least, we asked about menswear. “It’s coming,” said Lois, “and the first delivery will be here at the end of this week.” See advert below left for more information.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

Protect your lips this winter

SOFT LIPS: Try Galénic Argane repairing balm for lips.

LIPS can suffer just like any other part of the body from harsh weather conditions, drying and chapping, especially in the winter months. Pilar Lopez, product manager of Galénic, said: “The lips, like the rest of our face, are exposed daily to external aggressions (mechanical, chemical, physical, microbial and climate) but lips’ structure, which is especially thin, and their absence of a protective film, make them an area with a high drying trend.” Pilar continued: “In addition, the labial epidermis has no physical protection against UV.” Pilar’s top tips to help protect your lips and keep them looking soft and kissable ahead of Saint Valentine’s Day tomorrow (Friday) include: • Exfoliate them gently. You can gently use your toothbrush. • Hydrate in depth, at

least once a week. • Use a lip contour. • Always carry a lip balm in your purse and apply it as often as necessary. • Protect them from ultraviolet radiation. • Don’t smoke. • Drink lots of water. • Avoid biting your lips. • Do not moisten them with your tongue. • Do not gesticulate excessively (whistling, grumbling, making excessive grimaces). To keep your lips soft and smooth try Galénic Argane repairing balm for lips (€10.30) or The Body Shop’s shea butter for lips (€5).

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FEATURE

www.euroweeklynews.com

The 2014 Formula 1 season

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ONY MATTHEWS looks at the 65th season of Formula One Grand Prix Motor Racing, which is recognised by the sport’s governing body, the Fédération

Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) as the highest class of competition for open-wheel racing cars. Twelve teams and (hopefully) 24 drivers will compete in 19 races for the World

Drivers’ and World Constructors’ Championships. Sebastian Vettel starts the season as the defending drivers’ champion after winning his fourth consecutive title last term,

while his team, Red Bull Racing, will begin the campaign as defending Constructors' Champions, having won their fourth consecutive championship in 2013.

Formula One Schedule Race 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

MELBOURNE: Location of first 2014 race. Sebastian Vettel (right).

Calendar changes • The Russian Grand Prix will take place on a street circuit inside the Sochi Olympic Park. • Red Bull reached an agreement with Bernie Ecclestone to revive the Austrian Grand Prix after a 10-year absence. The race will be held at the Red Bull Ring which previously hosted the Austrian Grand Prix in 2003 when the circuit was known as the A1Ring. • The Bahrain Grand Prix will be a twilight event, under lights, similar to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. • The Hockenheimring returns to host the German Grand Prix.

Sporting regulations • Mid-season car testing is back. Four European venues will each host a two-day test in the week following the Grand Prix to be held at a chosen circuit. • The end-of-

season ‘Young Driver’ Tests have been discontinued. • The penalty system has been overhauled, so as to improve driving standards, with the introduction of a ‘penalty points’ system for driving offences which will carry a pre-determined points value based on their severity. These points will be tallied up over the course of the season, with a driver receiving a race ban after accumulating 12 penalty points. • Any driver who receives a race ban will also receive an additional five penalty points on his return to the track - a form of probation if you like, to discourage further driving offences. All points will remain on a driver’s licence for 12 months. • Race stewards will have the power to hand out five-second penalties - including a drivethrough. • A car will be allowed five engine changes during 2014 (it was eight last year). Each engine must be divided into individual elements,

Date Mar 16 Mar 30 Apr 6 Apr 20 May 11 May 25 Jun 8 Jun 22 Jul 6 Jul 20 Jul 27 Aug 24 Sep 7 Sep 21 Oct 5 Oct 12 Nov 2 Nov 9 Nov 23

Venue Albert Park, Melbourne, Australia Sepang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Sakhir International Circuit, Bahrain Shanghai International Circuit, China Circuit of Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain Circuit de Monte Carlo, Monaco Gilles Villeneuve Circuit, Montreal, Canada Red Bull Ring, Spielberg, Austria Silverstone Circuit, England (GB) Hockenheimring, Hockenheim, Germany Hungaroring, Budapest, Hungary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium Monza Autodrome, Italy Marina Bay, Singapore Suzuka Circuit, Japan International Street Circuit, Sochi, Russia Circuit of Americas, Austin, Texas, USA Interlagos, Sao Paulo, Brazil Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi

Teams and drivers This is the FIA entry list for the 2014 season. Team Contructor Infiniti Red Bull Racing Red Bull-Renault Mercedes AMG Petronas Mercedes Scuderia Ferrari Ferrari Lotus Lotus-Renault Sahara Force India Force India/Mercedes Marussia Marussia/Ferrari Williams Williams/Mercedes McLaren/Mercedes McLaren/Mercedes Sauber Sauber/Ferrari Scuderia Toro Rosso Toro Rosso/Renault Caterham Caterham/Renault

including the turbocharger, ERS unit and KERS battery. • If a driver receives a grid penalty for engine abuse, he will go to the back of the grid and the penalty will be carried over to the next race. For example: if a driver qualifies in 19th position and receives a five-place grid penalty, he will drop to 22nd and last place for that race, and then receive an additional two-place penalty in the next Grand Prix. • After the incidents involving tyres during 2013, which resulted in a string of explosive blowouts, especially at the British Grand Prix, the FIA has VETTEL’S CAR: For the Red Bull team.

Engine Renault Mercedes Ferrari Renault Mercedes Ferrari Mercedes Mercedes Ferrari Renault Energy Renault

passed a resolution granting the teams the power to change the specifications of the tyres with immediate effect should the need arise. • The pit lane speed limit has been reduced from 100km/h (62mph) to 80km/h (50mph). • The initial free practice session before each Grand Prix will now run for two hours (not 90 minutes). And an extra set of tyres will only be available for the first 30 minutes of the session, to encourage more running during free practice. • If a driver does not complete a full qualifying session, he will be assigned a grid position based on the average time of his practice laps - i.e. he could start the race in 9th or 10th place.

Drivers Sebastian Vettel/Daniel Ricciardo Nico Rosberg/Lewis Hamilton Kimi Raikkonen/Fernando Alonso Romain Grosjean/Pastor Maldonado Sergio Perez/Nico Hulkenberg Jules Bianchi/Max Chilton Felipe Massa/Valtteri Bottas Kevin Magnussen/Jenson Button Esteban Gutierrez/Adrian Sutil Jean-Eric Vergne/Daniil Kvyat Marcus Ericsson/Kamui Kobayashi

• The FIA has also introduced the ‘Pole Trophy’ - a nonchampionship award presented to the driver who qualifies on pole for the most races. • The final race of the season will offer double points to drivers in a bid to keep the championship fight alive for longer. Sit, watch and enjoy, it will be another interesting year of Formula One racing… and once again, the German superstar Sebastian Vettel is red-hot favourite with the bookies to win his fifth title in a row. I will think he’ll be there or thereabouts. His Red Bull team is simply the best.

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OPINION & COMMENT

Really looking @ the looky-lookies! Ric Polansky Ric Polansky moved to Mojacar in 1969 as a pioneer developer. He reads extensively and has travelled in South America panning gold and looking for El Dorado.

By Herr Culo P © THESE days, their noticeable but unobtrusive presence hardly causes a glance. Just another black man with a bag of goodies over his shoulder, hoping to sell you something. Anything! At a blink they’ll come over to your table and dump their wares. It’s always the same old stuff, sunglasses, belts, hats, watches, (that work for three weeks) fake expensive brand name handbags (that don’t fool anyone) and sometimes tall, wooden giraffes or elephants. You’ve seen it all before. In fact, every time you meet them they unfortunately still have the same paraphernalia you saw last time, and the time before that. It barely merits a ‘look’. Of course, in the back of your mind, you wanna buy something. You know, contribute to these poor souls trying to earn a meagre profit to send home to their starving wife and clothe-less children (you presume). Your heart bleeds for them, such a difficult, loathsome and

ALL FOR SALE: Items lugged across Africa. unfortunate existence (you imagine). The whole scene transpiring before your eyes while you suck back a hearty and sumptuous lunch washed down by some tasty wine. Yet, you feel odd enjoying yourself while they observe you with sad,

white eyes staring at your brimming plate. Casually sipping another tinto you ask again to see their wares, hoping your memory has forgotten something that you’ve already purchased 30 times. Mr Looky keeps scattering it all out around the table in high anticipation that someone else will see a special item and instantaneously covet it. All seated want to relieve his plight too, so they can heave a great sigh and get back to a laughter-filled lunch. But, mon ami, the great Herr Culo P deduces something is cryptically wrong with the sorrow-drenched scene. It’s all been orchestrated from afar, playing on your own well meaning. First off, they all come from the same country: Senegal. Africa’s a damn big place with zillions of poor; how come we get them all from just one place? There is no other nationality doing this. Ask yourself, how did they get from that distant spot to here, without a miracle or co-operative help? The recruits brought here are schooled to sell trinkets using mournful tactics, employees hand-selected for the job, trained from a well-oiled cottage industry with pre-stamped entry visas. Ask again, mon ami, how the poorest of the underprivileged have arrived from such a distance with a load of highly sophisticated watches all built for show and bling; equally crafted to work for a lifetime of three weeks. Where would these

nowhere folk find such well presented contraptions to tote along their way? The handcarved wooden figures are crafted from lathes that even cut the nicks and blemishes into the piece to fake authenticity. Put two of them next to one another and get shocked. Mon ami, the phony sunglasses are sophisticated copies of the most popular street brand names designed for the popular temperament of the current age. What? All this from people from the furthest outposts of civilization? Knowing the trends and latest fashions? Colourfully woven intertwined belts with glowing buckles and rare gemstone earrings? All for sale having been lugged completely across Africa, these unique individuals all end up selling the exact same items! Mon ami, PLEASE! I think not. Become astute, there is something much bigger happening. A mighty hand in higher echelons is setting you up, playing the goodwill card. Mafia, or political fat cats, maybe? Nevertheless, it is simply clever street extortion to massage your REMORSEFUL FEELINGS. Even Big Business is never too ashamed to beg for large, free profits!

HAND-CARVED?: No, crafted using lathes.

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FOOD & DRINK

www.euroweeklynews.com

& DRINK

ood F

Costa de Almeria’s best guide to local sport

Top wine producer To read more turn to Page 62

Almería’s best guide to local restaurants

TO READ MORE VISIT: WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM/FEATURES/RESTAURANTS

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Celebrate St Valentine’s at La Parada

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A PARADA in Garrucha would like to invite all the romantics in the area to a special Saint Valentine’s meal on Valentine’s night. The restaurant has prepared a special menu for the occasion which will include a glass of cava. La Parada is offering a creamy seafood soup with a Saint Valentine salad to start followed by a refreshing sorbet. The main meal will be a delicious steak dish with fresh foie gras al Pedro Jimenez (ximenez). The main meal will be followed by a special Saint Valentine’s dessert and coffee with ‘licor de amor’. The price for this special menu is €30 per person and reservations can be made by contacting Diana.

La Parada has a warm, sunny indoor terrace. La Parada opens at 9am with a full choice of breakfast options from a ‘tostada’ to a full English breakfast. La Parada

also offers a great value Menu del Dia for €10 which includes a drink, starter, main meal and dessert and is changed daily.

There is also an evening menu available throughout the week and also at weekends, priced at €15, including a drink. It has an excellent choice of starters and plenty to choose from the main meals, which include chicken or steak with a mushroom or pepper sauce, lamb chops, pork chops or salmon. Thursday night is Burger Night at La Parada. With burgers freshly made on the premises, diners are able to choose from a variety of burgers which will appeal to all different tastes. On Sundays a traditional Sunday roast is served with a choice of meats and all the trimmings. La Parada has a nice indoor shaded terrace and a large comfortable indoor dining area

as well as a bar area for a drink and a tapa. The restaurant also has available a large function room which is ideal for all kinds of functions from weddings and birthdays to business meetings or group meetings of any kind. Diana will be happy to help out and will also prepare any special dishes on request. La Parada is situated on the main road between Las Buganvillas and Garrucha on the righthand side just before you enter Garrucha. Open every day from 9am4pm and 7pm till close, and closed on Wednesday.

To book a table for St Valentine’s night or for more details phone Diana on 950 133 569

FOOD & DRINK

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First cookbook by a woman in Spain is published SPANISH publishing house Editorial Visor has published what is believed to be the first recipe book written by a woman in Spain. The book was written circa 1740 by Maria Rosa Calvillo de

Teruel, a woman whom researchers believe worked for a wealthy family in Sevilla. It has a total of 100 recipes, 99 from Maria Rosa and an additional one from an unidentified person.

The cookbook author wrote down recipes she probably learnt from other people, with names like ‘How Doña Joaquina makes sausages’, and ‘How to make Mariquita’s cake’. She also gathered recipes

BUSY KITCHEN: El Celler de Can Roca tops the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

The World’s 50 Best Restaurants THE 2014 World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards gala ceremony is to be held on April 28 at the Guildhall building in London. It is the 12th time British Restaurant magazine has drawn up the list, with S Pellegrino and Acqua Panna natural water brands sponsoring the event. The list of the 50 best restaurants of the world aims at giving a snapshot of the present culinary scene. Spanish restaurant El Celler de Can Roca currently tops the list after

ousting Rene Redzepi’s restaurant, Noma, in Denmark. Ferran Adria’s elBulli had previously topped the same list for four years in a row before closing its doors to become a ‘culinary foundation’. Many other Spanish restaurants rank among the 50 best in the world. Among them are Mugaritz by Anoni Luis Aduriz (fourth position), Arzak by Juan Mari Arzak (eighth position) and Chef Quique Dacosta’s restaurant with his name in Valencia (26th position).

from various Spanish regions, including Utrera and Moron de la Frontera (Andalucia) and Extremadura. There are almost no fish recipes, probably because of where she lived. She included, however, many

recipes for traditional and indulgent desserts. The original manuscript of the cookbook belonged to Maria Brey Mariño, a librarian and the aunt of Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy.

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Lechazo month in Ribera del Duero FEBRUARY is ‘lechazo’ month in the Ribera del Duero region, Northern Spain. A total of 21 establishments - 11 restaurants and 10 bars - from this area bordering the Duero river are serving their own version of the lamb dish every weekend this month. Lechazo is made with unweaned lamb from the native Churra breed, and is cooked in a wooden oven on a clay pan. The otherwise known as ‘lechal’, the lamb is exclusively fed with its mother’s milk, and has to be no more than 35 days old at the time of slaughter. Lechazo will be the star of set menus offering a starter, a main

course, dessert and a Ribera del Duero bottle of wine for €32 per person. For those on a budget or those who just want to have a taste of the traditional dish, the participating bars offer a lechazo tapa for €2.50. Mixing tradition with cuttingedge cooking techniques, the tapas are served, as could be expected, with a glass of Ribera del Duero wine. LECHAZO: Made with unweaned lamb.

FOOD & DRINK

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Spain is the top wine producer in the world

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PAIN became the world’s leading wine producer in 2013 after increasing its production by 41 per cent, the Ministry of Agriculture has revealed. This has been possible thanks to good weather conditions and improvements to the infrastructures of the wineries. A total of 50.5 million hectolitres of wine were produced in Spain last year, more than two direct competitors, Italy and France, which produced 47.4 million and 42.3 million hectolitres of wine last year respectively. By region, the biggest increase has been registered in Castilla La Mancha. The birthplace of El Quixote, which has its own certificate of origin, went from 19 million hectolitres in 2012 to 31.2 million in 2013, a 64.1 per cent increase.

WINE PRODUCTION: Spain surpassed France and Italy in 2013. Castilla La Mancha is followed by Extremadura and Cataluña. The only region to have seen its figures decrease in 2013 was Galicia.

The land of the Albariño wine produced 0.7 million hectolitres less last year, which is 0.5 per cent less.

Exports go up as world is hungry for Serrano ham THE world is hungry for Serrano ham and proof of that are the latest export figures released by the Spanish Serrano Ham

Foundation. A total of 25,543 tonnes of ‘jamon’ were sold outside the Spanish borders during the first 10

months of 2013. This represents €226.4 million, a 15.5 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2012. Of the exports, 82.4 per cent correspond to boneless formats of Serrano ham, a requirement asked by many of the target markets. This format includes slices, cubes and packaged ham. The European Union remains the main market for Serrano ham, with more than 80 per cent of exports. By countries, Germany tops the list with 27.8 per cent of exports. It’s followed by France (25.5 per cent) and Portugal (10.5 per cent). Sales in Poland are reported to have increased by 148 per cent, and in Sweden they have increased by 103 per cent.

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www.euroweeklynews.com

Former UN Ambassador chats to pupils ALBOJENSE, Inocencio Arias Llamas was back on home soil last week to give a talk to pupils from the Martin Garcia Ramos Institute. The former Spanish Ambassador to the United Nations spoke to students and staff giving his opinion on current UN issues and his work. In his address the former ambassador was critical of the performance of the organisation in its mission to prevent conflict, but noted its effectiveness in providing humanitarian aid. The event was described by the organisers as ‘an

amiable chat’ which was followed by the students with great care. At the end of the evening the youngsters were able to ask questions, and teachers expressed satisfaction with the event. Daniel Posada, Head of the Classics Department, described it as a “real treat” to enjoy the presence and words of Inocencio at the Institute. Elena Lopez Martinez, the student representative on the School Board commented “the talk has been very good and interesting. It was an honour to be able to listen and talk with him.”

ALBOX

Quality water a step closer in Albox A QUALITY water supply is ever closer for the people of Albox. In recent days, heavy machinery has been present in the Cerro Bolea area, near to the hamlet of Los Patricios, where work has started on the implementation of the water treatment plant. With the clearing of the land, work will now focus on construction of the the building to house the necessary machinery.

As outlined previously by Albox Town Hall, water distributed from this facility may reach the homes of the town in April. The total plot where they are carrying out the works covers an area of 4,000 square metres, although the water treatment plant will be located in a warehouse of 600 square metres. Inside the building, there will be two water treatment lines

ALBOX

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13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

The PP visit the town suburbs

SAFE: There has been a long campaign for better water in Albox. through which 100,000 litres per hour can pass, it will have a capacity of five

million litres a day providing quality water safe for consumption.

THE Partido Popular of Albox have started a round of visits and meetings across the town’s districts so residents can convey their concerns and needs. The round of visits began this week in the district of Canico where the PP explained to a group of neighbours the work being done directly by the PP as the opposition party. Also at the meeting the neighbours voiced their concerns, needs and priorities, of which the PP took good note to present to the town hall and demand immediate implementation from the socialist government. PP spokesman Juan Pedro Perez Quiles also took note of all actions proposed for the preparation of the electoral programme of

the PP, because “we want to help the neighbours with projects and needs, so that our actions will aim to solve the real problems of the citizens,” he said. “With this round of visits and contact with the districts, it becomes clear the priority of our management and work. “We want to hear their voices and of course keep in mind their ideas when planning projects,” he concluded. The Popular Party claimed that the mayor allegedly prohibited the use of a public school, which the neighbours usually use for their meetings with different groups, claiming that the meeting scheduled to take place in the rural school of the Segovias finally had to be held in the square of the hamlet, in the open air.

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ALBOX

New sports centre is to open soon THE citizens of Albox will be able to enjoy the indoor pool of the new sports centre in “approximately two months,” according to the town hall. The construction of the centre finished months ago apart for some minor details but has remained closed due to a conflict between the construction company and the contractor that has ended up in court. In March last year the judge granted the building to the construction company

OPENING SOON: The Sports Centre in Albox is hoped to be ready in approximately two months. because defaults. After

of

payment

months

of

stalemate the government team decided to step forward after receiving

this January a report from the Advisory Council of Andalucia, supporting the

town hall in its effort to get the centre open. This document has also been key to the recent approval at a town hall meeting in removing the company ‘Servicios Sociodeportivos del Sur’ from the project. The town hall is working on the drafting of the tender bidding for the future complex. The new contract being drawn up would allow, if necessary, the changing

of the initial project which included the construction of tennis and padel courts, seven-a-side football pitch, basketball court and several retail premises. What appears unmovable is the intention that Albox has an outdoor pool for the summer, as promised by Socialist mayor, Rogelio Mena, in recent statements made with respect to the Sports Centre.

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omes&gardens

H In memory of vanishing

HOMES & GARDENS

SPONSORED BY

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM

garden wildlife Dick Handscombe

Gardening Corner By Dick Handscombe Spain’s best known expat gardening author about to start his 26th winter cut back.

UNFORTUNATELY, there is far less wildlife in most gardens than 25 years ago, including ours. Birds, butterflies, geckoes, hedgehogs, lizards, frogs and toads have found it hard to adapt to the urbanisation of their

previously abandoned agricultural habitat. But fortunately we do have fewer venomous snakes. When the woods surrounding us were cut down, for a while several vipers moved in as their natural habitat of deep undergrowth in the wood was destroyed. But one way or another they were caught and taken to nearby remaining woodland. At the time, two hedgehogs moved in and bred in the base of a

temporary compost heap for some years until roads were built and adjacent fields built on. The main loss with the cutting down of around 200 pine trees was the bird life that visited our garden and in some cases nested. Early losses were a pair of eagle owls and an annual visit of nesting golden orioles. Nowadays, only blackbirds continue to nest each year as long-tailed tits have not used their nesting boxes for some years, but I am making new ones and in a greater number to see if this can be reversed. Once we had 10 shepherds roaming the valley with flocks of goats and sheep. With a constant supply of afterbirths several days a week, we would be entertained by hunting eagles, kites, vultures and hawks. Now one may be spied just a few days a year. With few houses and hence cats around, geckoes and

LOSS OF HABITAT: Butterflies find it hard to adapt. lizards had a wonderful playground with sunny rocks to sunbathe on and plenty of places to hide. We still have some but, with the urbanisation came a tribe of partially-fed, by neighbours, feral cats which seem to enjoy preying on them with the reduced bird population. Probably the greatest loss is the swarms of spring and summer butterflies. The causes being the clearing of their natural breeding grounds just across our garden walls for a network of roads and the building of an urbanisation, plus four years in which low-flying planes sprayed the citrus groves, and of course all

BIRDS OF PREY: Not many around anymore.

other vegetation, with non-ecological chemicals against the leaf miner insects. The days in June and July when one could find the garden full of recently hatched butterflies including swallow tails are now just fond memories. Once two of my daughters and two grandchildren counted almost 1,000 flying flowers in the garden. We still have the plants they like but just a few strays visit from the local mountainsides. The remaining real success in providing a natural garden habitat for disturbed wildlife is the number of frogs and toads that find refuge in our ponds and closelygrouped flowerpots. I am just cutting back the reeds around the ponds, as for

probably 10 winters no overwintering blackcap warblers or shrikes have visited the ponds for water. Also perhaps they would not like the netting we have had to place over the ponds to prevent an unwanted heron from devouring any more of the goldfish. So we have a densely planted casual natural garden with less wildlife than we would like, so that we need to walk the wilderness of Spain’s virgin mountain ranges to find evidence of surviving wildlife. When we walked for 52 days along the Spanish Pyrenees most of the 950 kilometres were densely populated with both birds and butterflies. These and other delights are described in my latest book, available as a regular book and in Kindle format, from Amazon Books. The title is ‘Our 52 day retirement adventure along the Spanish Pyrenees’.

© Dick Handscombe www.gardenspain.com February 2014

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FEATURE

Advertising Feature

N

The year has started with a bang at Price Brown in Mojacar O ONE reading this article will be surprised to hear

that house prices in Spain have seen a decrease of up to 40 per cent since

the artificially high prices recorded in the early part of 2008. According to KYERO in a recent report, however, “the recent declines registered are not as pronounced as in previous years, indicating a slight improvement in the housing market, but in general analysts do not expect the situation to change soon.” While this may well be true, at Price Brown, since the middle of 2013, month on month they have seen an increase in the numbers of people looking to invest in their area of Spain. This is good news for homeowners who are looking to sell their properties and have priced their properties competitively. There is no question that competitively priced properties will sell and are selling. 2014 has started with a bang! January has been an excellent month for Price Brown. The number of enquiries they are receiving each day is up, the numbers of people viewing their properties is up and the number of sales achieved is up. Is this a sign that the

The friendly team at Price Brown.

The office is located on Mojacar Playa. market is recovering? This is a question Price Brown are asked with increasing frequency. The honest answer is that no one really knows. Nobody would have purchased a property at the height of the boom if

they knew that a property crash was around the corner. Sellers need to be aware that buyers are cautious about buying properties that appear ‘top heavy’ on price. However, Price Brown’s statistics show that

people are willing to purchase a property that represents value for money in the present market. Vendors should take heed of the advice given to them by their estate agent. A professional and experienced agent will know the true value of your property; a value that gives you a fighting chance of finding a buyer. When properties are on the market for 12 months or more, perhaps that is the time for those vendors to re-evaluate their expectations of the current value of their property. Sell your property with Price Brown in 2014. Contact Daphne or Elaine on 950 478 915 for advice about selling or to discuss your requirements. The address is: Paseo del Mediterraneo 171, Mojácar, 04638 Almeria. Office hours are Monday to Friday 9.30am to 6pm Follow Price Brown on twitter and Facebook and www.pricebrown.com Email sales@pricebrown.com

FEATURE / PETS

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13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

Watch out for the Phisherman! Trevor Spencer Computers HI Everyone. Last week I mentioned, in passing, the term ‘Phishermen (women)’ and added that this was not a spelling mistake. So what is a ‘Phisherman (or Phisherwoman wouldn’t want to

be sexist in anyway!)? Simply put, they are cons, ‘flim flam artists’ or if you prefer, tricksters of the worst kind (although, apart from magicians, tricksters are an unwelcome breed, just look at politicians!). How many times have you opened an email just to find that ‘your email account has been hacked and that you should use the link provided to access your account and change your password.’

First thing to note is that when you hover the pointer (arrow) over the address link to your email, the address looks unfamiliar. This is because the trickster has copied the email login page and put it where they can get to it! When you login and use your password you will either get a polite reply

PHISHING: Simply a trick to access your email account.

saying that the matter is being dealt with, or a further fake page to allow you to change your password. By the time you realise that you have been had, they have been to the real email site and changed your password to something that they want. WHY? How many times have you got an email from a friend who has sent it to you suggesting that you go to such a website and when you get there it sells Viagra, adult toys or cheap electrical goods? What is worse? You are apparently receiving this unsolicited email from ‘A Friend.’ More likely that the friend is mortified that someone has used their email address. More next week on Phishing and solutions to prevent them. See you then.

Fun stuff for dog lovers SPONSORED BY For all dog treats please call: 971 887 007 / 634 152 813

David THE Dogman Listen to David on TRE every Saturday 10am to 11am Costa del Sol (Gibraltar/Sotogrande) 98.7fm (San Roque to Calahonda) 91.9fm (Calahonda to Motril) 88.9, Costa Calida 92.7fm Costa Blanca (Torrevieja to Elche) 105.1fm (Elche to Calpe) 88.2fm, (Calpe to Gandia & Ibiza) 104.6fm, (Denia to Valencia) 95.3fm Mallorca 103.9fm

DOGS are fun and interesting. Here are some pieces of trivia about our furry friends... • The smallest dog on record was a Yorkshire Terrier in Great Britain who, at the age of two, weighed just four ounces, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. • An adult dog has 42 teeth. • The only sweat glands a dog has are between the paw pads. • Cleverest dog breeds, in this order, are supposed to be: Border Collie, Poodle, and Golden Retriever.

LONGEST-LIVED: Small dogs. • Dogs are good for you. People who own pets have been found to live longer, probably because their stress levels are lower and they have fewer heart attacks. • Dogs’ hearing is more than 10 times sharper than a human’s. • A greyhound can run at up to 45 miles an hour. • The dog name ‘Fido’ is from Latin and means ‘fidelity’. • A dog’s whiskers are touch-sensitive hairs and can sense tiny changes in airflow.

• Dogs have more than 220 million smell detection cells, compared to five million in humans. • Small dogs tend to be the longest lived. Toy breeds live up to 16 years or more. Larger dogs average seven-12 years. • In 1957, Laika became the first earth creature to orbit the earth. She was launched in Sputnik 2. She did not survive the experience.

For your local radio frequency log onto www.talkradioeurope.com.

For further assistance call me on 689 892 745 for information about my services and rates, or email canducomputing@ hotmail.co.uk.

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SPOTLIGHT

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Daytime opera without the soap! By Ric Polansky © THE Sochi Olympics fireworks were a day premature. The million dollar extravaganza should have been saved for lauding the Kimrick’s most recent theatre production QUARTET in aid of Paws. The magic of QUARTET started months ago selecting this unique play for the area audiences. Imagine, operatic divas trying to live together in a residential retirement home. That should make you smile. It gets better. The four characters all arrive with boat loads of baggage, love affairs, operatic egos, life’s difficulties and personal quirks that make them all too easy to identify with ourselves.

author Randolf Harwood, is clever, biting, whimsical, and keeps one cerebrally entwined with the half truths of flawed personalities and the full truths of growing old. Linda Hands, the director, brings out the best in the cast so they are all individually unforgettable. Jacqueline Welby, producer and starring as Cissy, is no ordinary Thespian but also a retired cardio thorasic surgeon. Amateur this play is not! It is right out of London’s West End QUARTET: A unique play for audiences in the area. with perfect lines and timing. Such a tremendous effort on Roger Dickman (playing vivacious camp bicycle having behalf of the charity PAWS. Reggie) a pedantic over- drifted from reality to a fog of The show moves up the road organiser; Jacqueline Welby her choosing; Peter Hands (as to Teatro Saveda in Cantoria (playing Cissy) a once Wilfred) content in retirement on the 14th and 15th at 7:30pm and Sunday the 16th at 3:30pm. I have pleaded with the cast, and they have VERA and District Lions Club is pleased everyone. The cost is just €10 per year, money throughout the year to help promised to do a to announce that the February winner payable before April 1, which puts the support local good causes. command showing at of the 100 Club Draw is Erica Jane ticket holder into 12 draws. Kimrick once the dates More information about the club: Palmer, who receives €20. To buy a number, contact Jill Morley can be arranged. This monthly draw is open to on 662 012 181. Vera Lions Club raises www.veralions.com. Watch this space! but still seeking new amorous conquests; and Janet Franklin (as Jean) a virtuoso who mysteriously retired at the height of her fame and insists you never forget that fact. The actors play their roles perfectly. Within minutes, you are a voyeur watching intimate residential proceedings full of much pathos, intellectual preponderance, and foolishness. Within moments of observing their shenanigans, the audience identifies with the cast and becomes an ulterior subconscious in the confusion and mayhem. Everything about this performance was magical. The dialogue, penned by

Erica’s a Lions winner in the February 100 Club Draw

Advertising Feature

Liberty Seguros scores a Hole In One!

L

IBERTY SEGUROS has been elected by AEGG (the Association of Directors and Managers of Clubs and Golf Courses) as the Insurer of preference for golf insurances. The agreement, which ensures that all of AEGG’s members are entitled to the best benefits when contracting a Liberty Seguros golf insurance, was signed by Manuel Lozano Pose, Manager of AEGG, and Francisco Javier Muñoz Postigo, Commercial Director for Liberty Seguros in Malaga. AEGG is a non-profit organisation which looks to boost, develop and present the role of Golf Club director/management, making it the ideal organisation for Liberty Seguros to team up with in order to be able to grow in the field of specialist golf insurance.

On the left, Manuel Lozano Pose, Manager of AEGG, and on the right Francisco Javier Muñoz Postigo, Commercial Director Liberty Seguros Málaga and Campo de Gibraltar.

As Manuel Lozano Pose, Manager of AEGG, said: “This agreement is very beneficial to the organisation: to be able to count on a partner such as Liberty Seguros is a breakthrough as they will be able to offer us comprehensive cover, that can be adapted to our specific needs.” The policy covers breakage and/or damage to equipment and clubs during the course of play, as well as cover

against fire and theft as a result of intimidation or violence whilst being transported by the insured, whilst stored with the caddymaster or at the pro-shop. Perhaps even more importantly, it provides Personal Accident Cover for death, permanent disability and medical expenses

resulting from accidental injury occurring at the Golf Course. Third Party Liability is included up to €100,000, which also covers accidents whilst playing abroad, provided that liability would have applied to the insured had the same accident occurred in Spain. Ask your Liberty Seguros

broker about these competitively priced golf policies and ensure you tee off with absolute peace of mind, whilst at any officially recognised club ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD! Go to www.liberty expatriates.es to find the nearest broker that speaks your language!

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CLASSIFIEDS

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lassifieds C

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FOR RESULTS EVERY WEEK

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MOTOR HOMES SMALL selection of motorhome and caravan accessories now available at great prices. Motormovers, solar panels, inverters, leisure and engine batteries, reversing cameras, 12 volt LED televisions, air-conditioners and Aqua Kem. www.hispa van.com 687 845 730 (219435) WANTED motorhomes and caravans, any condition or country of registration considered. www.his pavan.com 687 845 730 (219435) MOTORHOMES and caravans for sale. Interesting selection. Part exchange considered. www.hispa van.com 687 845 730 (219435)

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PROPERTY TO LET

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PET TRANSPORT INTERPAWS: 20 years’ licensed pet transportation. Competitive rates. Difficult dog? Effective behavioural training in your home. www.interpaws.com, janette@interpaws.com 689 742 289 (218076)

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For daily news visit www.euroweeklynews.com

FOR RENT Long Term or Short Term, Furnished or Unfurnished in Cabrera, Turre. High quality, spacious townhouse of 130m2. Consisting of 3 large bedrooms with bathrooms en suite, lounge/dining room, kitchen, reversible air conditioning, various terraces with spectacular views and tranquility. 10 minutes from the motorway, A7 exit 520. Quality communal swimming pool. Rental from 450€pcm. Similar quality 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 lounges, kitchen, garage, internal Andalucian patio etc, 600€pcm, unfurnished. jose.vaiti er@hotmail.com / 609 626 140 (222721)

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MOTORING

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TYRE CHECK: It’s important you pay attention to the state of your car’s tyres. Advertising Feature

Make sure your car is safe

www.euroweeklynews.com

STAFF from Chema Neumaticos have taken to the streets this week in a safety campaign. They explain that for your safety and that of others, it’s important that you pay attention to the state of your car’s tyres. It is an essential element in road safety to make sure tyres are in a

good state of repair. That is why the staff from Chema Neumaticos will take to the street and are offering a free diagnosis of your car’s tyres with a free estimate. At Chema Neumaticos, they have a team of professionals at your disposal, as well as the best brands and prices which can’t be

beaten. If you go to their premises with the estimate they give you, they will offer you a complete free revision of your vehicle.

Chema Neumaticos, specialists in all types of tyres. Carretera Lorca Baza, Albox, km 72/300. 950 120 475.

MOTORING

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C4 CACTUS: An alternative to the compact hatchback.

New Citroen C4 Cactus, functional and attractive C

ITROEN has unveiled the new C4 Cactus, the French manufacturer’s alternative to the compact hatchback. The C4 Cactus stands apart with a unique design that is both functional and attractive. It features pure, smooth surfaces and flowing lines with no aggressive edges. Fitted on the side and bumpers of the C4 Cactus is the Airbump, a Citroen exclusive. It provides dayto-day protection with a supple thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) skin that comprises air capsules to absorb impacts. The Airbump requires no specific maintenance and directly contributes to cutting vehicle servicing and repair costs. Inside the C4 Cactus, which is going to be manufactured at Citroen’s plant in Villaverde (Madrid), space has been freed up for

the driver and passengers. The low dashboard with its horizontal lines creates more space for the front passenger, with easily accessible storage. This was obtained by adopting a fully digital interface and optimising the driving position layout. At the rear, passenger knee room is similar to that on the C4. For an equivalent wheelbase, the C4 Cactus provides the same amount of space for more compact exterior dimensions. Fitted as standard, a 7inch touch screen with seven sensitive buttons gives access to a full range of modern vehicle functions. The vehicle weighs 965 kilos, 200 kilos overall less than a Citroen C4. By making the vehicle lighter, CITROEN has been able to adopt smaller latestgeneration engines.

This has the advantage of cutting fuel consumption while maintaining driveability.

Car sales on the up in January CAR sales in Spain increased by 7.6 per cent in the first month of the year, with a total of 53,436 units sold in January. This is a remarkable increase compared to the 19,496 cars sold in the same period last year. The Spanish Car and Lorry Manufacturers Association (Anfac) credits the sales boost to the fifth phase of the PIVE incentive programme, which came into force on January 29. “The PIVE 5 has allowed the month of January to close with positive figures,” said Communications Manager at Anfac David Barrientos. This increase, however, is slightly lower than the one the market experienced during the last months of 2013.

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SPORT

Mike is the top scorer NEWLY-FORMED Villaricos Golf Society played at Valle del Este on Thursday where the course was in excellent condition, and the weather perfect for golf. Terry Thompson was the winner of the individual stableford competion with 34 points. Dell Kratzke was second on countback, while Rick Bird placed third. Nearest-the-Pins was won by Rick Bird and Tom Tannant. Top score came from guest Mike Reynolds with a very creditable score of 37 points. Villiaricos play many of the local courses and we are always looking for new members to join our very friendly society. For more information, contact Tom on 674 783 261 or Dell on 693 945 587.

Valle del Este host Badgers VALLE del Este Golf Resort played host to Badgers Golf Society. Topping the points scoring on the day was Julian Butterworth with 35 points. Second place was George Crichton (33) from Dave Crothers (33). Saturday’s very windy stableford at Macenas was won by Dave Wright with 36 points. Brian Watts (32) was second with Lynn Sefton (29) coming in third. Badgers Golf Society also plays every Saturday at Macenas for their weekly roll-up. Guests are welcome to join the society on both Wednesday and Saturday competitions. Book in either at Badgers Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or by phone on 950 478 525 / 686 038 259. Fixtures can be found on www.badgersmojacar.com.

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13 - 19 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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Jenny’s Joy, Wenger’s Woe, Irish Jig as they whip Wales Tony Matthews

DID YOU KNOW?

International Sports A former football player and the world’s most prolific author of football books (more than 100 published), Tony is also the sports reporter for Spectrum Radio and lives in the Cabrera mountains.

Costa de Almeria

IT’S back to the FA Cup this weekend with 5th round ties featuring Cardiff-Wigan, Manchester City-Chelsea, Sheffield Wednesday-Charlton and Sunderland-Southampton on Saturday; Arsenal-Liverpool (revenge perhaps for the Gunners after last Saturday’s clattering at Anfield?), Everton-Swansea and Sheffield United-Nottingham Forest on Sunday and BrightonHull on Monday. Also on Saturday, the top Championship games are Nottingham Forest-Leicester, QPRReading and Watford- JENNY JONES: Won Bronze Olympic medal. Middlesbrough. On Tuesday, it was Cardiff-Villa, Hull-Southampton, WBA-Chelsea and West Ham-Norwich, while last LAST Sunday, Bristol-born Jenny Jones, aged 33 and wearing night’s games were Arsenal- number 1, became the first Brit to ‘officially’ win an Olympic Manchester United, Everton- medal on snow. She claimed bronze in the women’s Crystal Palace, Fulham-Liverpool, snowboarding event in Sochi where, for the first time ever, Manchester City-Sunderland, three sisters, Chloe, Justine and Maxine Dufour Lapoint, are skiing for Canada. GB is hoping to win four medals - their best Newcastle-Spurs and Stoke. And Real Madrid and Barcelona since 1924. should have qualified for the Copa del Rey final. ‘Hammered’ 2-0 at home by Kevin Fraser Forster conceded a goal LAST WEEK’S SOCCER Nolan! for the first time in 1,047 minutes ACTION • Hull defeated 10-man as Aberdeen beat the Bhoys 2-1 • It was ‘S Club Five’ at Anfield Sunderland 2-0; Saints were held in the Scottish Cup. Minnows as Liverpool, with goals by 2-2 by the Potters; it was goalless Albion Rovers and Raith, Raheem Sterling (2), Martin between Norwich and Man City; Dumbarton, Rangers and St Skrtel (2) and Daniel Sturridge, Fulham stunned Manchester Johnstone are also through to the beat Arsenal 5-1 (it could United with a 95th minute last eight. have been 10-1). This • Real Madrid topped La Liga 5th round equaliser at Old was the Reds’ biggest Trafford (2-2) and (briefly) after beating Villarreal 4FA cup win over the Spurs beat Everton 2; Almeria stunned previous Gunners since 1964, 1-0. leaders Atletico Madrid 2-0 and ties are the year the Beatles • In the Malaga lost 4-1 to Rayo Vallecano on this first visited America! Championship, before Barcelona, with a brace weekend • Newcastle had a leaders Leicester from Messi, defeated Sevilla 4-1 ‘Hazardous’ time at The salvaged a ‘late’ point v to overtake ‘Real’ on goal Bridge as Eden scored a Watford (2-2), Burnley beat difference. hat-trick in Chelsea’s 3-0 win. Millwall 3-1 and Leeds, with Brian * GB’s Alain Baxter won a skiing • The Eagles flew high in south- McDermott reinstated as bronze at Salt Lake City in 2002 east London as Crystal Palace manager, won 2-1 at Yeovil. but was stripped of his title after won the six-pointer against WBA • The FL1’s top two, Brentford failing a drugs test. 3-1. and Wolves, didn’t play while SIX NATIONS RUGBY • Swansea completed a PL Chesterfield, after drawing 1-1 at It was mud, sweat and tears for double over Cardiff, winning the Scunthorpe, went three points Scotland who were beaten at Welsh derby 3-0. clear in FL2. home by England for the first • Aston Villa got West • Shock, horror Celtic’s ‘keeper time since 1978, crashing 20-0;

SNOW QUEEN JENNY

• 23 players were given out LBW in the SussexGloucestershire cricket match at Eastbourne in 1928. Sussex had six batsmen dismissed leg before on the first morning. • The biggest win in international football is 31-0, by Australia over America Samoa in a World Cup qualifier in 2001. rampant Ireland whipped reigning champions Wales 26-3 and France powered past Italy 30-10. Next matches: 21/22 February. FOOTY SHORTS • Barcelona when beating Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final, completed an astonishing 956 passes: 467 in the first-half, 489 in the second. • Swansea’s caretaker-boss Gary Monk (34) is the youngest manager in the UK. • Manchester United manager David Moyes will release seven players at the end of the season... Vidic for certain and possibly Anderson, Evra, Ferdinand, Nani, Carrick and even Giggs (retiring). • Ex-German international Jurgen Klinsmann, head coach of the USA, is now a qualified helicopter pilot. • Director of Football, Joe Kinnear, has left Newcastle United again! MONEYBAGS Kevin Pietersen is set to make at least £3m (€3.6m) by playing in the Indian Premier Cricket League. Remember, he’s been told he will not feature again for England. POWER CUT Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor, using a new set of arrows, has suffered his first-ever 7-0 whitewash crushed by Michael van Gerwen in the Darts Premier League. SUPER GIANTS Reigning champions Wigan Warriors lost their first game of the 2014 Rugby Super League season, crashing 24-8 at home against Huddersfield Giants.

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E W N 13 - 19 February 2014/ Costa de Almería

Sport Costa de Almería’s best guide to local sport

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Jenny Jones wins bronze medal at Winter Olympics. Turn to Page 79 TO READ MORE VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

Away trip to La Envia MARINA PHOENIX enjoyed a weekend trip away to La Envia, Almeria. The competition was an individual stableford where Glennys Oliver had the best score on the day to win the ladies’ division with 35 points from second place Kathy Morris. Linda King followed in third. Terry Oliver kept the winnings in the family by taking the men’s division

Marina Phoenix Monday individual winners.

with 33 points from Rod Ambrose, who had 31 points. Jim Budd followed

with 30 points. Nearestthe-Pin prizes went to Isobel Jones, Glennys Oliver and Jim Budd. Brian Couper stole the show at Monday’s competition with an impressive 40 points. Terry Oliver was second with 37 points followed by Jim Budd in third with 36 points. In the ladies division, Kathy Morris was first with

33 points. Glennys Oliver placed second with 32 points, with Linda King in third with 30. Thursday’s team competition was a fourball Texas scramble with a large turnout and close scoring. First place went to John Meagher, Vincent France, Rhoda Elwick and Alan Morris with 59 points. Second were Linda Lamb, Alan Lamb, Glennys Oliver and Jim Budd with 59.2. Marina Phoenix play Mondays (individual) and Thursdays (team). Call Jim on 950 162 727 / 600 353 670 or Rosalie 950 397 117 / 697 512 882.

CEREMONY: Gerald Perego receives his award.

Top man Gerald!

THE men’s senior golfing championship of all Andalucia has been won by long time Mojacar resident Gerald Perego last week in Roquetas del Mar. Having enjoyed the day he decided to return home but was held back ‘for a ceremony.’ He sat patiently while others from around Andalucia were presented with small trophies for their winning scores on other courses. Out of the 120 golfers that played, Gerald Perego won the first prize for all of Andalucia.