ISSUE NO. 1566
9 - 15 July 2015
MALLORCA
YOUR PAPER, YOUR VOICE, YOUR OPINION
Booming Mallorca
ISLANDS lead the way in Spain’s recovery with 32 months of falling unemployment By Maria José Fernandez MANY months of falls in the islands’ unemployment figures show the Balearics are leading Spain into recovery. The number of unemployed residents registered in June decreased by 3,324, a 5.65 per cent drop in the number of people out of work if compared to the previous month, and places the jobless total at 55,508, according to the Employment and Social Security Ministry. This means the Balearics have once again become the autonomous community with the highest fall in unemployment in Spain. The drop was more than double the national average of 2.25 per cent for June. The unemployment rate has fallen for 32 consecutive months since November 2012.
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LOCAL NEWS
Positive results for public health care RESIDENTS of the Balearic Islands have the fifth shortest waiting times at the doctor’s surgery in Spain, according to the Sociologic Investigations Centre (CIS).
In addition, 31.8 per cent of them rated the assistance received as ‘very good,’ while only 5.1 per cent considered the help received as ‘worse than expected.’
Rural homes a hit JUST as every year, the tourist sector in the Balearic Islands has started to bloom and even more so than in any other community. Rural homes in the Balearic Islands have been rated as the favourite amongst visitors in July as 40 per cent of them will be booked during the month, double the national average of 20 per cent.
Island’s recovery engine IF you want to get ahead go it alone. That seems to be the message in the Balearic Islands as it was announced as the Spanish region with the biggest rise in numbers of selfemployed in June.
With a growth of 2.5 per cent, the Islands now have 1,890 new self-employed residents, according to workers union Uatae. During the first six months of 2015, there were 9,208 new workers.
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NEWS
Let the bar music play! Until 12pm FAST solution wanted to satisfy the demands of business owners and residents By Maria José Fernandez STRICTER regulations in Calvia might work to clean up the area’s boozy reputation but they are causing concern amongst bar owners. They believe their interests are not being taken into consideration. Bar owners in Calvia have asked the town council to allow them to play music until midnight, and not 11pm, as the new laws have established. They claim it is unfair that this new regulation against noise and vibration does not affect hotels, as they are considered private properties. Several club and bar owners from Es Castellot (Santa Ponsa) together with Head of Esquerra Oberta party Alfonso Ro-
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CALVIA: Bar owners want to play music until midnight. driguez, held a meeting with Tourism councillor Antonio Garcia Moles to express their concern on a law that they claim is causing damage to the sector.
Esquerra Oberta is supporting this campaign and has requested the cancelation of all fines that may have already been issued under this new regulation.
The Tourism councillor has committed his department to finding a fast solution to this issue, to satisfy the demands of both business owners and residents.
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Suspicious backpack
FEATURED NEWS
The Vikings invade
Protocol activated
Cordon Press
BUT in true Spanish style, it is red wine that is spilled, not blood
EWN
PORT authorities in Palma activated the suspicious luggage protocol on Saturday (July 4) at around 5pm upon finding an abandoned backpack. The protocol was stood down at 5.50pm after the bag was found to contain nothing suspicious.
Positive forecast Good harvesting season THE Agri-food Associations of the Balearic Islands have estimated that the almond harvest of 2015 will be 10 per cent higher than last year at 1,516 tonnes.
Best bar Receives award BAR Ginbo located at Passeig Mallorca (Palma) has been chosen amongst the 10 best bars in Spain and the best of the Balearic Islands in the Diageo Reserve Coaster Awards 2015.
Better times Franco-era names out
MARAUDING: ‘Northern invaders’ prepare to take the Torres del Oeste.
By Dilip Kuner ON the first Sunday of August the Galician village of Catoira stages a unique spectacle, a re-enactment of the Viking invasions 1,000 years ago. Villagers dressed as Viking warriors, stage their own ‘pirate attack’. The party starts at about 10am, with performances by folk groups in the streets of Catoira and at the Torres del Oeste. It is a ninth century fortified complex, known as one of the most important archaeological and historical sites in Galicia, which for centuries resisted various attacks.
296,170 was the number of kilos of rubbish collected from the streets of Madrid after the Madrid Pride 2015 celebrations held on Saturday, July 4, in Spain’s capital city. More than one million people attended the event this year.
Visitors can visit a ‘medieval market’ before the highlight of the festivities: the disembarkation. On board a replica of a Viking ship, 11th century ‘northern invaders’ reach the coast in order to take the Torres del Oeste. The villagers try to resist and that’s when a simulated battle takes place. But the crimson liquid spilled is not blood, participants end up soaked in red wine. Then, after the fight the party begins, accompanied by the sound of bagpipes, and the fun continues into the evening, with a host of activities. This year the event is being held on Sunday August 2.
MADRID’S new council has decided to remove conflictive names from Franco times from the city’s streets and is considering replacing them with names of famous women or well-known, local residents.
Quote of the Week The Greek people’s No to the troika is a Yes to Europe and an end to cutbacks,” declared Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias regarding the results of the referendum in Greece.
Mexico arrives at Pollensa festival THE 54th edition of Pollensa’s Festival will put the spotlight on Mexican culture. The event is designed to combine music, literature, cinema and gastronomy and will take place between July 18 and
August 22. “In Europe we have a very limited preconceived idea of what Mexico looks like, just as they think that all Spanish people are bullfighters,” said artistic director of the event, Joan Valent.
The Pollensa Festival Orquestra, under the direction of Angel Gil-Ordoñez, will perform on August 13 presenting a show titled Viva Mexico, a montage of Mexican music combined with the screening of
movie Redes (The Wave, 1993). Literary figures such as Juan Villoro, Guillermo Zapata and Mariana Salinas will also take part in the event. Two major artists are to perform for the oc-
casion: flamenco singer Estrella Morente and German singer and actress Ute Lemper. Events will take place at the Cloister of Santo Domingo Convent. http://www.festival pollenca.com/.
Coast accident Crew member rescued A MAN who fell overboard from yacht Beethoven II three miles off the coast of Portocolom at 2.30am on Monday, July 3, was rescued by Salvamento Maritimo five hours later and taken to the Manacor hospital.
Bad results Biggest drop THE Industrial Production General Index in the Balearic Islands fell by 2.8 per cent in May compared with a year before, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE).
Boat fire Police investigate A SMALL boat caught fire early on Tuesday (July 7) in El Molinar port. Local and National Police are currently investigating the cause. No one was hurt.
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INDEX News 1 - 18
Featured News 3
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Noos controversy still rumbles on
News Desk 20
TWO lawyers who filmed the Infanta will have to stand trial European Press 22
Russian Press 23
Finance 25 - 30
Stocks 26
Leapy 31
Vicki 33
Our View 34
Colin Bird 34
Mike Walsh 34
By Maria José Fernandez THE Noos corruption cases that burden former Duchess and Duke of Palma Cristina de Borbon and Iñaki Urdangarin are now affecting those who attempted to benefit from it. The two lawyers who secretly filmed the Infanta Cristina while she was testifying in front of the Judge Jose Castro back in February of 2014, will now have to stand trial. Mr Castro had explicitly forbidden from the court room electronic devices such as tablets, phones, laptops or any other items able to perform recordings. But one woman is believed to have used a watch-camera to film the Infanta. The court number 11 of Palma, led by judge Manuel Penalva, has dismissed the ap-
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Francisco José Carvajal, one of the suspects who allegedly recorded the Infanta Cristina while testifying.
peals issued by the alleged authors of the video, Jose Carvajal and Maria del Carmen Jimenez. In the 45-page statement, the judge considers that the two suspects attended the trial with the sole intention of secretly filming the Infanta during their testimony. But the two lawyers said that their presence in the room was due to their work defending another suspect connected to the case, Robert Cockx. However, the judge says that not even one of the 1,082 questions that judge Jose Castro asked the Infanta Cristina were related in the slightest to the lawyers’ client. Now the Provincial Court of the Balearic Islands has confirmed that the two lawyers will have to stand trial, charged with a crime of disobedience.
Daily TV 36
Letters 38
Time Out 40 - 41
Health & Beauty 44 - 45
Food 46 - 47
Homes & Gardens 49
Property 51 - 53
Pets 54
Classifieds 56 - 57
Motoring 58 - 59
Boats 60 - 61
Sport 62 + 64
Four injured by flying car on motorway FOUR people were injured, two of them seriously, after a driver lost control on the motorway on Tuesday (July 7). Initial investigations pointed to the Hon-
da Civic, which was travelling towards Llucmajor, having swerved to the left and crossed the central area, which has no barriers. A central ditch is believed to have
caused the car to go flying before landing on top of two cars travelling in the opposite direction, leaving the drivers no time to react.
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Flickr By Andreas
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ON THE UP: Tourist spending has reached its highest level for five years.
Spending more TOURIST revenue generated €2.17bn from January to May By Maria José Fernandez TOURISTS are leading the Balearic Islands’ financial recovery as the region has registered the highest rate of tourism expenditure of the
Looking after heritage PALMA Council intends to give more priority to its heritage assets and cityscape by filling what it sees as gaps in the management of its historical heritage. Deputy Mayor Antoni Noguera has announced that more staff may be taken on to fill the gaps, as currently there is just one archaeologist employed. The Culture Department will be involved in projects to boost the city’s historical assets, the councillor explained. And Jonquet and El Molinar are to receive special town-planning protection to ensure their jewels do not become a thing of the past.
past five years. During the first five months of 2015, each tourist who visited the islands spent on average €108.9 per day, a figure much higher than the one registered back in 2010,
€93.4 per day, according to the data published this week by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Energy. In total, tourists generated revenue of €2.17 billion from January to May, also higher
than previous years. The report collected information from several sectors such as the hotel industry, public and private transport, restaurants and commercial businesses, amongst others.
No more bullfights in Mancor de la Vall THE initiative to turn Mallorca into an anti-bullfighting region is going strong, say campaigners. On Wednesday, July 1, Mancor de la Vall declared itself a bullfight-free area, becoming the 18th municipality to do so, in support of the campaign Mallorca without Blood (Mallorca Sense Sang), launched by animal rights associations AnimaNaturalis and CAS Internacional. Mayor Guillen Villalonga, of the MES per Mancor party, was the one to put the motion forward, which has been approved during a plenary session with four positive votes, even though the PP conservative party abstained from voting. The campaign has already gathered 130,000 signatures requesting a ban on bullfighting in Mallorca and, in their words, “the end of torture.”
Coordinator of the campaign Guillermo Amengual delivered a distinction to the
mayor during the plenary session to thank the local government for supporting it.
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NEWS EXTRA
Airport strike AIR controllers’ strike scheduled for Saturday and Sunday (July 11 and 12) and July 25 and 26 are expected to affect 300,000 passengers flying to and from Palma airport.
Body found AN 86-YEAR-OLD, Juan Antonio Bou, who went missing on June 30, was found dead under a bridge in the area of General Riera’s Carrefour on July 6.
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Shopping centre attracting lots of attention SEVENTY per cent of the future S’Estada shopping centre’s space in Coll d’en Rabassa has already been rented. The new facilities are expected to be inaugurated in aro u n d 1 2 mo n th s , a nd man y b u s in e s s e s h a ve shown their interest to be part of the shopping mall, built by French multinational Carrefour.
Works started two years ago and, according to the construction company, are progressing following the due dates agreed and with all necessary licences and permits. O ne of the c ompa nie s which will be present in the ne w s hopping c e ntre is Iris h-ba s e d bus ine s s Prima rk, w hic h w ill ope n a 7,000 square metre shop.
Flickr by Paco Ros
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BEACH CLOSED: The red flag was hoisted in order to ban bathing.
Major sewage leak FORCED closure of Ciutat Jardi beach in Palma By Maria José Fernandez LOCALS and residents who visited the Ciutat Jardi beach in Palma on Saturday (July 4) to swim and bathe found the scene far from picture-postcard upon their arrival. A discharge of waste water, caused by the breakage of a
pipe in the Torrent Gros stream, forced the area’s safety team to call in swimmers from the water and hoist the red flag, banning bathing. The events took place at around noon and several hours later, the red flag remained hoisted. Workers from the munici-
pal water treatment company EMAYA attended the area and took samples to determine the level of contamination. Around 24 hours later, they confirmed the presence of the E Coli bacteria, which indicates sewage was leaked into the sea. Local Police officers roped off the area surrounding the Torrent Gros stream and since Saturday, water from the desalination plant is being poured into the sea to speed up the natural cleaning cycle of the water. Finally on Tuesday (July 7), the green flag was hoisted after the results of tests indicated that the water conditions were suitable for bathing.
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Taxi drivers’ alert on ‘pirate’ cab services Flickr by Kurt-Georg
DETECTIVE agency been hired to spy
PALMA AIRPORT: Unlicensed drivers are unfair competition. By Maria José Fernandez TAXI drivers have hired a detective agency to spy out ‘pirate’ cabs. Saying that the unlicensed drivers were unfair competition, the Taxi Drivers Association of Mallorca hired the services of a detective agency to watch the activity of vehicles that operate around Palma’s Son Sant Joan airport. The investigation, according to head of the association,
Gabriel Moragues, has detected at least 30 minibuses belonging to six different transport companies that, though authorised to operate in the area, are reported to be carrying out illegal activities to attract customers. The alleged underhand tactics include charging each customer separately, when they should charge per journey, recruiting customers inside the Son Sant Joan airport even though this practice is prohibit-
ed in all AENA-controlled Spanish airports (only agencies with headquarters inside the airport can do so), and promoting themselves as taxi services, when they are not licensed as such. Mr Moragues explained that the report had already been delivered to the Regional Government of the Islands, as the association believes legislation is being violated, and considers it to be a case of unfair competition.
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NEWS
Balearics tourism stronger than ever TOURISTS from the UK, Germany and Italy are tops the second ranked autonomous community with the highest increase in terms of holiday apar t m ent dem and, wi t h a 37 per cent THE Balearic Islands have been rated as the growth compared with last summer. second most demanded tourism destination The Islands were followed by the in the whole of the country amongst Valencian Community (15 per cent) Spanish residents. and Catalonia (12 per cent). With 18 pe r c e nt of the t ot al In terms of nationalities, tourists bookings , the Is la nds w er e onl y per cent rise from the UK, Germany and Italy beaten by Andalucia (with 33 per in demand for show great predilection for the c e nt of the tota l) a c c ordi ng t o a holiday flats. Balearic Islands, making them first study carried out by holiday rental choice, while French tourists prefer online platform HomeAway. Catalonia, mainly because its nearer. The study also shows that the Islands are By Maria JosĂŠ Fernandez
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Runaway kills woman AN elderly Italian woman has died two days after a runaway van ran her over in Calle Lisboa in Santa Ponsa. The events took place at 7pm when a van with a German licence plate began
rolling downhill, knocking over a street lamp and finally hitting the victim and her husband, who suffered minor injuries. The 88-year-old tourist suffered a severe head injury and was taking to the Son
Espases hospital where she died on Tuesday (July 7). Local Police are currently investigating the case although all evidence indicates that the vehicle’s owner forgot to put the handbrake on.
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EURO WOMEN PAGE
Courtesy of The Benidorm Palace
The starry, starry world of Christina Our Euro Women series is featuring women who have made a success of their lives in Spain. These outstanding ladies have been shattering glass ceilings whether in business, charity work or sports. Christina runs the most successful theatre cabaret venue in Europe and has the award to prove it.
HERE we have a Euro Woman to conjure with. Christina Climent could very easily blend into a crowd with her neat, petite appearance and chatty personality. She is not, however, just one of a crowd, although it is true that crowds are her speciality. Christina runs the most successful theatre cabaret venue in Europe and has the award to prove it. Christina was the only child of a farmer who was far sighted enough to raise his daughter to be comfortable in the world of business. At 18, when she wanted to leave home to marry Vicente, a Spanish musician, he didn’t stand in her way. Vicente and Christina bought a gift shop in the Los Pelicanos Hotel in Benidorm and made enough of a success of it for Vicente to retire at 40. Within a year he was bored and so they bought The Benidorm Palace, a tired nightclub with no catering and not much of a show. The couple put in kitchens, conference rooms, great performers, later adding a Big Top marquee… The Benidorm Palace today can accommodate 2,000 and every meal it serves, every performance it shows, is of the highest possible standard. Unsurprising, because Christina runs an unending system of forensic spot-checking to make sure the customer gets a true Benidorm Palace experience. “Nobody is allowed to be a prima donna at the Palace, from the cleaning ladies to the owners,” said Christina: “We all pull our weight to get it as perfect as it can be. And
Christina runs the Benidorm Palace
CHRISTINA CLIMENT: Is not just one of a crowd, although crowds are her speciality.
Perfection is what Christina strives for By Jan Gamm
Fact file I couldn’t walk away from the Palace completely, any more than I could walk away from one of my children.
the only person who is indispensable is the customer.” Perfection is what Christina and her family strive for with every show: “This is a holiday town. This show is likely to be the highlight of someone’s yearly holiday so it has to be that good. Memorable, spectacular and unforgettable.”
Name: Christina Climent (or Cristina as she is also known) Age: 62 Family: Married to Vicente with two children, Jo and David Home town : Widnes, UK Where now: Benidorm Pets: One cat aged 17 Languages: English and Spanish Book or TV: TV: I’ve no time for reading Favourite programme : Soaps - I’d fall asleep in a film! Strengths : Trustworthy. Fair. Family-minded. Hard-working Weaknesses : Animals and children Greatest success: Being a mum, and The Benidorm Palace Greatest failure: Nothing that stands out. I don’t deal in failure. If I do make a mistake it doesn’t happen twice… Irritants: Cruelty to animals and children. And people who pick and whinge without having any idea of the work that goes into things. And bad service - that really gets me going…! Best time of your life : Still in it! Big picture or detail: Oh detail - it has to be in my line of work. I can spot a hole in a chorus girl’s tights from half a mile!
The Euro Weekly News asked Christina about her proudest moments: “My kids and receiving the award for the best Theatre Cabaret Show in Europe in 2013. It was indescribable, how I felt, how I still feel whenever I look at it.” Where does Christina want to be in five years? “Hmm. Still involved. I couldn’t walk away from the Palace completely, any more than I could walk away from one of my children. Perhaps to be able to step back a bit now and then would be nice.” Favourite artist? “The late and great Danny la Rue! He was absolutely the most gorgeous, marvellous man, professional, kind, fascinating. No airs or graces, a real gent.” The glittering Benidorm Palace continues to carve its name as a legend in theatre cabaret not just in Spain but throughout Europe, a large scale masterpiece in stage entertainment that is the heart of Benidorm and the pride of its owners. Christina the farmer’s daughter… who’d have thought it!
Do you know a Euro Woman? If you do please drop us a line at eurowomen@euroweeklynews.com giving full contact details and why you feel they deserve to be honoured. As well as being featured in the EWN a book is being produced for Christmas with all profits going to charitable organisations.
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SAN REAL: Human remains of two people have been found.
2,500-year-old remains found DISCOVERY was made at Santa Margalida By Maria José Fernandez NEW archaeological discoveries have been made at Santa Margalida’s Son Real necropolis. Human remains of two people who are believed to have lived 2,500 years ago have been found in a dig. One of the anthropologists
Palma traffic changes RESIDENTS of the district of Foners and Nou Llevant were left baffled when traffic started travelling along their streets in the wrong direction. Palma Council decided to change the direction of traffic in Para Ventura, Montevideo and Lima streets, but local residents claim they were never informed. People in the neighbourhood said the modification caused chaos, with drivers who had no idea they were now driving the wrong way. Since Thursday (July 2), drivers in Calle del Paro Ventura have had to head from Joan Alcover towards Calle Manuel Azaña. In addition in Calle Montevideo, drivers are now forced to drive from Manueal Azaña to Ciutat de Queretaro.
who was working at the site, Francisca Cardona, explained that after investigating one of the bodies, she could confirm that it was a male human with an age of between 20 and 40 years old. Through the study, experts were able to discover that it was a very robust man who would have carried out
significant physical work. “He is buried in a very awkward position, possibly because he was buried in a tight shroud made of some sort of organic material, as there are no remains of it,” Ms Cardona said. It is expected that the dig will finish by July 17.
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NEWS EXTRA
Lit up A FIRE which started last Thursday (July 2) at 2am burnt down the Sa Rapita tobacconist, forcing authorities to evacuate all residents of the building. Police believe that the fire was caused on purpose.
Balcony fall A BUILDING in Calle Pizarro 7 of Can Picafort was evacuated on Friday (July 3) after one of its balconies collapsed, leaving between five and eight tonnes of debris. No one was hurt.
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Greenpeace looks for climate change heroes in Balearics HELP fight against climage change By Maria José Fernandez GREENPEACE is looking for new members to join its fight against climate change and has launched a recruitmen t ca mp aig n in th e Is lands to do so. The association is looking for “anonymous heroes for the climate,” to help raise awareness of the environmental problems faced by
Drug traffickers arrested A MAJOR national police operation has seen drug trafficking suspects arrested in Sevilla, Cadiz and Palma de Mallorca. Authorities believe that the network sent hauls of cocaine, hashish and marihuana inside boxes from Jerez de la Fron-
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Flickr by Greenpeace Polska
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tera (Cadiz) and Lebrija (Sevilla) all the way to the Islands, using regular parcel services. Upon his arrest, the suspected leader of the gang allegedly attempted to run over officers with his vehicle to avoid detention.
the Balearic Islands. The goal of the campaign, which is also open to citizens of the rest of the 17 autonomous communities, is to look for residents who would like to share stories on how globa l w a rming, pollution, oil prospecting and other environmental issues affect their daily life. Those interested can sign up be fore J uly 31 on www.heroesporelclima.org. Five ‘anonymous heroes’ will be selected to take part in the campaign, which will request new energy policies which are 100 per cent renewable, and the halting of ‘dangerous’ energy generation methods. Their proposals will be put forw a rd a t a c lima te c ha nge s ummit due to be held in December.
GREENPEACE: Looking for new members and has launched a recruitment campaign.
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Lifeguard federation warns about drowning NINE people have died in the Islands this year. By Maria JosĂŠ Fernandez WORRYING facts have been unveiled by the Spanish Rescue and Lifeguarding Royal Federation. Of the drowning deaths in Spain during the first six months of 2015, 12 per cent took place in the Balearic Islands.
A total of nine people have died this year in the Islands, out of which seven were foreigners. There were lifeguards on duty in only three of the cases. Those figures mean the Islands have the third highest percentage of deaths by drowning during the period in all the regions of Spain. In national terms, 75 people
have died in the sea, rivers or pools so far this year. Head of the Royal Federation, Isabel Garcia Sanz, pointed out that 46.7 per cent of all deaths happened in June, coinciding with the start of the tourism season when many areas of the country had not yet launched safety measures or lifeguarding services.
Hotel Delta in Llucmajor has finally reopened EMPLOYEES of the Hotel Delta in Llucmajor have breathed a sigh of relief after the facilities were reopened on Friday (July 3). Catalonia-based group Best Hotels has taken over the Delta after it was suddenly closed down in September 2014, without any notice to guests. The new owners have also taken care of all unpaid wages from 2013 and 2014.
Many of the 70 employees of this hotel had already ceased to receive unemployment benefits and went as far as carrying out protests against the former owners of the hotel during the summer season of 2014. The reopening of facilities has not been easy as they have been practically abandoned during the winter months.
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EWN shows commitment to community with 10th office SINCE the turn of the year Euro Weekly News (EWN) has been putting its money where YOUR mouth is. We asked readers and advertising clients what we could do to make the most popular free English newspaper group in Spain even better. Back came the answer - be even more local and get to the heart of the community. Here at EWN we have always been conscious of our responsibility to not just present the news to expatriates, but also to represent the concerns, worries and triumphs of foreign communities. They look to EWN to give them a voice. We thought hard about how we could improve and decided to embark on an ambitious programme of expansion and investment to best do what you have asked us to do. To this end we have just opened our 10th office in mainland Spain
NERJA OFFICE: Maiara, Nicki and Ben and Mallorca, this time in Nerja in the Axarquia, following on from the three new offices just opened in Costa Blanca North. Not only is EWN investing heavily in new premises, but in staff too. Old-style values still have their
place. People don’t want the impersonal internet, they want to see a friendly local face to answer their advertising questions or tell their news stories to. That is why we are putting something back into the community by giving jobs to more expats than ever before, investing in new offices and increasing the number of distribution points, already an impressive 4,000. Our Benidorm Indoor Market Office is not just a sales point, but also an information centre to help residents and visitors alike. We want it to be a meeting point, somewhere to stop by for a chat and get all the local information. And if it works we will be looking to roll out the concept to other areas of Spain.
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WE GET IT!
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Readers Robert & Ali
Not only are we at the Heart of the Community, but with the Euro Weekly News everyone Gets It!
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Prices increase SECOND-HAND car prices in the Balearic Islands went up 7.3 per cent in June, compared to the same month of 2014. The average price of a second hand car in the Islands has reached €11,280 according to specialised online site coches.net. In addition, according to the Automotive Studies Institute (IEA), a total of 161,445 secondhand cars were sold in the whole of Spain.
Cheaper petrol FIRST self-service petrol station to open in Mallorca By Maria José Fernandez THE first entirely self-service petrol station in Mallorca was opened to the public on Thursday (July 2) in Calvia. The facilities can be found at the Avenida Mar Mediterraneo at the Son Bugadelles industrial site and has been opened by company Buga 2000. Although popular in parts of central Europe, this kind of petrol station, which does not employ staff but allows customers to pay in cash or using a credit card through machines are slowly becoming more common in Spain. However, current regulations only allow
these stations to be placed in industrial sites or big shopping centres, and they are forced to have at least one employee to help with potential incidents. The main advantage is a significant price reduction, which can be from six to 10 cents lower per litre than those offered in traditional stations. However, faced with the competition, other petrol stations in the area decided on Thursday to also lower their prices. Specifically, the one on the road connecting Santa Ponsa and Calvia Vila, barely 200 metres away from the newly opened station, adapted the prices to mimic its competitor’s.
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Calvia rewards tourist for 50 years of visits IT has been 50 years since holidaymaker Barbara Halbert started regularly visiting Calvia and the town council wanted to express its gratitude over such a long-lived faithfulness. A heart-warming event was held at Paguera’s Hotel Cala Fornells and attended by council representatives, as well as town mayor Alfonso Rodriguez Badal and hotel guests. The mayor gave Barbara a Siurell, a typically Mallorcan clay figure which is also a whistle, as well as a commemorative photograph and other gifts to reward her loyalty to the area. She also received a bouquet of flowers and a plaque from the hotel director Maria Peña, who delivered a speech thanking her for the many years of support.
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NEWS
SPECSAVERS: Make a donation, every little helps.
Fundraising campaign for kidney research THROUGHOUT the month of July fundraising will continue in store By Community Reporter KIDNEY disease affects one in 10 people in Europe, but many do not know they have it or that they are even at risk. It can affect anyone at any
age and without warning. It cannot currently be cured and is responsible for thousands of deaths every year ma ny of w hic h c ould be prevented with better diagnosis and improved treatments. Martin Blake, Store Director of Specsavers Optic a s , re c e ntly he lpe d his brother-in-law by donating one of his kidne ys , a nd thanks to him his brotherin-law no longer requires dialysis and is recovering well. As a result of his brother-in-law’s illnesses and Martin’s experience, he
has decided to raise money for Kidney Research UK and the Spanish Kidney Disease Association ALCER to help beat this disease. To start his fundraising cam pai gn he hel d a f un event at Specsavers Opticas in Santa Ponsa on June 27 whi ch r ai sed m or e t han €1,000. Martin’s ambition is to raise €2,000 so until t he end of Jul y, t he fundraising will continue in store. Thr oughout t he m ont h, customers can enter a raffle to win a weekend stay at a holiday apartment in Puerto
Pollensa, make a donation in return for their free eye test and buy wristbands and pi ns. Al l f unds col l ect ed will be split between Kidney Research UK and ALCER Spain. Martin Blake commented: “We had a great day raising money for Kidney Research UK and ALCER on June 27. The total amount raised was €1,010, thank you to everyone that came to the event and donated. If you still want to get involved, please pop in throughout July, buy a raffle ticket, or get your eyes tested and make a donation - every little helps!” Visit the store on Avda Rei Jaume 1, 117, Locales 14 and 15, Santa Ponsa, 07180, Mallorca, call 871 964 331 or visit www.specsavers.es for more information. For more information about kidney disease and the work being carried out by Kidney Research UK, visit: www.kidneyresearchuk.org to find out more about ALCER visit www.alcer.org.
NEWS
9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
www.euroweeklynews.com
NEWS EXTRA
Bigamist arrested A PAKISTANI man was arrested in Palma after the Immigration Office found out he had married a Colombian woman in 2013 and another woman by the end of the same year without having divorced the first one.
Traffic department names 30 deadly roads ACCIDENT black spots will be monitored
Great results MALLORCA’S textiles industry had its best results of the past seven years in June. A total of 56 per cent of interviewed traders said sales had increased, according to a survey by PIMECO (Small and medium-sized businesses trade association).
Samaritan’s Freephone JUST over four weeks since launching their Freephone number for the English speaking community across Spain, the Samaritans in Spain are pleased to announce that their call rate has increased by more than 60 per cent on the same month last year. This is excellent news for the Samaritans, with calls from across the whole of Spain, the Canary Islands and the Balearics, meaning they are able to offer support to those who need it. The number is 900 525 100 for the English speaking community and support for both English and Spanish speakers is available by email at pat@samaritansinspain.com
DANGEROUS STRETCH: Police presence to be reinforced. By Maria José Fernandez THIRTY stretches on 26 roads in the Balearic Islands have been named accident black spots by the National Traffic Department (DGT). The locations of these dangerous areas have been released on the DGT’S official website. It also announced that surveil-
lance using mobile radars would be intensified with the goal of reducing road accidents. In Mallorca there are dangerous stretches on the Ma-3232 Sineu-Sant Joan, the Cap Blank road Ma-6014, the Ma-13 Palma-Inca-Sa and the Ma-3500 Muro-Inca road amongst others. In national terms, the DGT
has published a total of 1,500 stretches of secondary roads on which police presence will be reinforced due to their significant accident rate. The complete lists of roads where mobile radars will be used can be found at: h t t p : / / w w w. d g t . e s / e s / el-trafico/control-de-velocidad/illes-balears/.
Suspected attacker also charged over huge cannabis plantation A 59-YEAR-OLD who was arrested by police after reportedly attacking his sister, was also caught allegedly growing marihuana at his home. Authorities were alerted to a possible ca s e o f d o mes tic v io le nc e in the Son Reus residential complex (Palma). The man was taken into custody after police found enough evidence to believe he had beaten his sister. After that, officers received an anonymous call alerting that the property they had just visited could be hiding an illegal marihuana plantation. They requested an official search order and were authorised to inspect the prop-
erty, where they found 100 marihuana plants, 12 lamps, a shotgun and other devices to create the optimal environment for the cultivation.
100 number of marihuana plants found at a property in Son Reus
The arrested man was not only charged with a domestic violence crime but also under drugs laws.
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NEWS
Mexican students visit for a project FRIAR is to be canonised by Pope Francis next September By Maria JosĂŠ Fernandez A TOTAL of eight university students from Baja California (Mexico) arrived on Monday (July 6) in Petra to see for themselves the home and museum dedicated to the controversial Friar Junipero Serra. The friar, who was born in the town in 1731, founded several churches throughout California and died in Monterey (US) in 1784. The students, accompanied by the organisers of the project, Emilio Martinez and Catalina Font, visited the town council where they were welcomed by Mayor Salvador Femenias. Until July 20, they will take part in different activities and will share their newly acquired knowledge back in their home country, as well as promoting the town and the island of Mallorca. Junipero Serra Ferrer is to be canonised by Pope Francis next September, despite complaints voiced by indigenous Californians and Mallorca citizens, who launched a
Naotake Murayama on flickr
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FRIAR: Born in the town in 1731. petition against the sanctification. Opponents claim that the friar was responsible for oppression, enslavement and genocide of thousands of Indigenous Californians.
Binissalem residents concerned by smells BAD smells are upsetting residents of the Es Rasquell area in Binissalem. Several neighbours have complained that the smells, believed to be caused by a faulty sewage system, are also accompanied by other nasty results such as the presences of flies and cockroaches. They also point out that the area affected includes a busy children’s park. Deput y m ayor of Binissalem, Jose Fernandez, confirmed that the problem was caused by a construct i on f aul t i n t he wast e drainage and sewage systems. Mr Fernandez has promised to hold a meeting with the company in charge to determine whether it is a problem that affects only a few homes or the entire district.
FINANCE
9 - 15 July 2015 /Mallorca
www.euroweeklynews.com
The Financial Conduct Authority has confirmed its rules on pension transfer advice. There is no exception for nonUK residents, so the rules also apply to expatriates and those moving into Qualifying Recognised Qualifying Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS). The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is anxious that retirees are well advised on their pension transfers. You should take professional, regulated advice on your pension savings, which play a key role in determining your lifestyle and financial security through retirement. The introduction of the new pension freedom, which only applies to defined contribution schemes, means many people with defined benefit schemes are eyeing a pension transfer to take advantage of the new flexibilities. The FCA’s June 2015 policy statement, “Proposed changes to our pension transfer rules; feedback on CP15/7 and final rules” sets out the rules around the transfer of safeguarded benefits, primarily held within defined benefit schemes, to flexible arrangements like occupational pensions, SIPPs and QROPS. It confirmed that transfers from defined benefit schemes over £30,000 require a review by an adviser with a suitable pension transfer qualification
EWN
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Pension Transfer Rules Confirmed. How Does This Affect You?
By Peter Worthington, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks and who is regulated by the FCA. British expatriates have further levels of complexity to deal with. The FCA’s document explains there are additional considerations where the individual is resident overseas: “….this means that a non-UK resident seeking to transfer pension benefits overseas will need to seek advice from an FCA-authorised adviser on the implications of
proceeding with the transfer. As FCAauthorised advisers are unlikely to know the local tax regime or pension rules, non-UK residents seeking to transfer pension benefits will be likely to need to seek advice from both an FCA-authorised adviser and a local (resident) adviser.” Previously, an expatriate wishing to transfer a defined benefit scheme to a QROPS may have simply employed the services of an offshore advisory firm. Now, the same transfer requires the involvement of a suitably qualified UK pension transfer specialist. The same applies for transfers from a defined benefit to defined contribution schemes. UK pension advisory firms are not able to advise you on taxation in Spain. Expatriates looking to transfer their pension may need to employ the expertise of different advisers: a UK firm to get the authorised advice required; a local advisory firm for
pension advice, and a local tax adviser to understand all the tax implications. Receiving advice from different sources and having to work out the overall position is far from ideal. You need holistic advice to cover your pensions, the investments within the funds, your investment options should you take the cash, the tax implications in both Spain and the UK, and estate planning considerations. If possible you want to avoid using two or three advisers. You can overcome that anxiety by using a firm regulated by the FCA and also based locally in Spain. They will understand all the local implications as well as the UK pension rules and options. Article 56 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union allows the freedom of movement of services within the Union. It gives regulated entities within one EU country permission to legitimately
conduct business in another, through the EU’s Insurance Mediation Directive. This is the optimal solution for British expatriates with financial affairs in both the UK and Spain. It is important to be aware of the full implications of your pension decisions, including taxation. You need to adequately assess all your pension options before you can determine the best one for you. Just looking at one or two in isolation is risky. And the best advice is to carry the FCA’s rule on taking regulated advice forward to all your pension decisions. Pensions is a highly complex area; getting it wrong could have serious consequences. To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com.
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NEWS FROM OUR FIVE OTHER REGIONS
COSTA DEL SOL
Serious reservations about important tortoise reserve Craig ONeal/flikr
CURRENT plan affects homes, agricultural buildings, country properties and thousands of trees
TORTOISE: Humans to be evicted to ensure they have a home.
COSTA BLANCA SOUTH
COSTA BLANCA NORTH
By Linda Hall ARE tortoises more important than people? Land and property owners in Cuevas del Almanzora who face compulsory purchase orders so that tortoises can have a home do not think so. The Almeria-Murcia AVE high-speed railway line will affect their natural habitat so the central government plans to set aside 500 hectares of expropriated land as a nature reserve for them. Although the exact details have yet to be announced, the reserve will affect more than 500 hectares of Cuevas del Almanzora land between Los Lobos, Muleria, El Largo, Guazamara and the motorway, according to sources quoted in the local Spanish press. The current plan affects 11 homes, eight agricultural buildings, five old country properties, two polytunnels and thousands of citrus trees. The town hall will take every step within its power to halt the compulsory purchase orders, said the mayor.
AXARQUÍA
COSTA DE ALMERÍA
War projectile
Living chess
Flags fluttering
Not peanuts
NAVY divers were called in to deal with a Civil War projectile which was found in the sea near to Cala Cortina in Cartagena.
THE port of Javea is to host a Living Chess game on Saturday July 25 at 10.30pm, the 19th Living Chess event organised by the Fiestas Mare de Déu de Loreto in collaboration with the City Council.
THE blue flag, the Q for Quality and Ecoplaya flags were hoisted in La Caleta beach (Velez-Malaga) last Thursday (July 2). All these awards guarantee condition of water and facilities at the beach.
THE 2014-2015 fruit and vegetable season ended with the best prices for 10 years. Growers received an average 62 cents per kilo, compared with 52 cents in 2013-1014.
Charity success
In passing
THE Coros Rocieros Choirs meet-up raised €1,180 to be donated to charity association ‘Nerja Solidaria,’ in charge of Nerja’s food bank. In addition, 300 kilos of non-perishable food was collected.
The AL-3115 between La Fabriquilla and the Cabo de Gato lighthouse, has reopened. One of the most-used secondary roads in the province, two cars can now cross there in safety.
Prices fall
Warning signs
THE implementation of Benidorm’s Blue Zone Parking has been delayed for 15 days while residents are informed of imminent changes.
DURING the second three-month period of 2015, the price of property fell by 25 per cent in Granada Province, a total of €1,084 per square metre, according to property agency Club Noteges.
FOR the third year running, Ohanes and Berja organised self-defence workshops for women. They enter into the Diputacion’s ‘Prevention of Violence’ programme and advise on identifying and dealing with gender violence.
Water saving
Car accident
JAVEA Council and the municipal water company, Amjasa, has started an awareness campaign to reduce private water consumption. The local desalination plant is now working at 100 per cent capacity.
FIVE people, amongst them a one-yearold child, were injured in a car accident which occurred at around 2.20am on Monday (July 6) at the A-7 road in Torrox. All victims were taken to the Axarquia hospital where they remain.
Minute’s silence
Attacker jailed
Economy drive
MEMBERS of Benidorm Council observed a minute’s silence at midday in the city’s main square on Monday July 6 for the victims of the latest wave of gender-based violence.
A 43-YEAR-OLD has been sentenced to six years after sexually assaulting his 17year-old colleague. The events took place in June 2013 in a beach bar in Almayate.
ADRA Town Hall will be split into nine major departments and remuneration will be reduced for part-time councillors. A 33 per cent pay cut will bring annual savings of €154,000.
Q for quality SAN PEDRO’S beaches have been awarded two Q for Quality flags and the Blue flag at Villananitos and La Puntica recognising their quality and cleanliness.
Car sales THE Murcia Region recorded an increase in the sale of new cars during June of 31.7 per cent, compared to the same month last year, selling 1,948 new vehicles.
Dog hunt POLICE in San Fulgencio are searching for a pit bull terrier which is reported to have attacked a flock of sheep causing injuries to 10 of the animals.
Floating art CARTAGENA was visited by the Costa Magica cruise liner for the first time last week. The ship, almost a floating museum as it has more than 5,000 pieces of art on board, brought 3,470 passengers to the port’s city streets.
Art exhibition A POSTHUMOUS exhibition of paintings and watercolours by Raul Botella will be in the Alfaz del Pi Casa de Cultura until July 20. The artist died in 2012 aged 35.
Blue Benidorm
NEWS
For more local news from our five other regions see www.euroweeklynews.com
Plant chosen ZAMARRILLA is the Sierra de MariaLos Velez national park’s plant of the month. Formally known at teucrium, the plant belongs to the germander family and thrives in arid areas.
Fire plan AROUND 80 per cent of the 800 urbanisations in Marbella have failed to create fire emergency plans, despite the area being declared at extreme risk following the wildfire in 2012.
Larger taxis MALAGA City will now have taxis that can seat between seven and nine people. Fifteen of these larger vehicles are already on the streets but the number will be increased to 60 in the future.
School work THE Junta de Andalucia will carry out work on 47 schools in Malaga Province throughout the summer in order to create 1,200 extra places for students for the coming term at a cost of €8 million.
Safer fair ESTEPONA’S police force has launched a special campaign for this week’s annual fair, running until Sunday July 12, which will see 105 officers patrolling the fairground to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Clean up TORREMOLINOS has created 10 new jobs for cleaners in an aim to clean up the town’s image to improve quality of life for residents and make a better impression on visitors, the council has announced.
Drugs off THE National Police force has broken up a 24-hour cocaine delivery service based in Fuengirola. The group took orders over the phone and delivered to Fuengirola, Mijas and other nearby areas.
EWN top for all the news from Spain.
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GERMAN
EUROPEAN PRESS SCANDINAVIAN PRESS
Text exit FINLAND: Matti Makkonen, the creator of SMS or texts, has died. His idea to send messages over mobile networks revolutionised the usage of mobile phones.
Homes alone FINLAND: There are more than 300,000 vacant properties in the country with 28,000 in Helsinki. Many of the homes are mortgage free and the owners do not wish to rent them out.
Shopping illegal NORWAY: A leading Bishop has declared Sunday shopping a violation of the constitution dating back to 1814. Helga Byfuglien said Sunday was a holy day and sacred.
Rights violation NORWAY: Anders Breivik, who killed 77 people in two terrorist attacks, has launched a legal action accusing Norway of violating his human rights. Breivik is being kept in total isolation for his own safety.
PRESS
Missing woman found SHE was last seen in Exeter visiting work colleagues ALISON JOYNER who went missing from Tamworth in May 2014 has been found in Cornwall. She was last seen in Exeter, Devon, visiting work colleagues.
Car cannibals A GANG of thieves are targeting cars in Bedfordshire and removing components in the night. One victim woke up to find the whole of the front of her car gone.
Take that FANS of Take That were dismayed when they went to Manchester to see the band but were a week late. A spokesman said they should have checked the date.
BRITISH PRESS Hanging around ANOTHER ride at Alton Towers broke down and left 80 people hanging face down for an hour. There were no injuries and refreshments were provided.
Hailstone chaos YORKSHIRE has been hit by a storm of hailstones the size of golf balls during a heat wave. Cars, roofs and satellite dishes were damaged by the ice balls.
Real doll A LADY from Leicester has spent two months making a replica doll of Prince George. Natalie Lawrence wants to ‘introduce’ the doll to the Royal family.
Soul funds A YORKSHIRE shoe shop worker was overwhelmed when his crowd funding proposal to assist Greece raised nearly €1 million in three days, with 50,000 people donating.
Tragic teen A TEENAGER who did not pass a stool for eight weeks suffered a heart attack after her enlarged bowel damaged her vital organs. The girl had a phobia about toilets.
More tourists are predicted LIBERAL attitude is one reason for the increase
Pepper attack A MOTHER in Saxony felt her child was under threat when playing in a playground so she pepper sprayed three children and a woman in a wheelchair.
Robot kills A ROBOT being programmed for Volkswagen in Baunatal, Hesse started up, picked up its assembler and threw him against a slab. The man died later in hospital.
Snow joke THE German Weather Service issued a weather warning for Westphalia predicting 10cm of snow and high winds. The warning was a test and was sent by mistake.
Run in company
Spanish slugs
DENMARK: A new cycling and walking bridge will reduce traffic on the over-used Langebro Bridge, Copenhagen. The new bridge will be low level and utilise a curved pavement.
A TRAIN passenger in Dusseldorf reported a dead bearded man in a blue coat beside the train tracks. Officials found it was a partially deflated Papa Smurf balloon.
A THRIFT shop in Ohio is selling what it claims to be a pair of Eva Braun’s panties.They are initialled EB and are priced at US$7,500.
SWEDEN: Research from Uppsala University shows that condom use amongst Swedish women is on the decline yet the number of sexual partners is on the increase.
Copenhagen cycle
Smurf alert
Eva Braun’s panties
Risky behaviour
SWEDEN: Helen Martens found more than 2,000 Spanish slugs on her lawn. Although the slug is not native it has spread rampantly in Sweden since 1975.
NEWS
DUTCH COAST: More tourists. 3.2 MILLION visitors are predicted to visit the Netherlands this year. The Dutch coast and liberal attitude is thought to be the reason for the increase in tourism.
Heat buckles tracks RAILWAY company NS had to reduce services as the heat has buckled some tracks. Routes from Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht were all affected.
DUTCH PRESS Tunisian repatriation DUTCH travel companies are bringing all Dutch nationals back from Tunisia. A specially charted plane will bring 275 people home with only essential travel to Tunisia advised.
Riots in The Hague THE death of an Aruban tourist in police custody resulted in rioting in Schilderswijk. Around 300 youths threw fireworks and bottles at police.
Body solves mystery THE remains of Tom van Boheemen have been found in Kalgoorlie, Australia. Boheemen has been missing since 2001 and died from natural causes.
FIRMENLAUFE, or company runs are proving popular as bonding sessions. JP Morgan had 70,000 sign up for its run in Frankfurt, the largest attendance ever in Germany.
Asylum fears THERE were 170 attacks on homes sheltering asylum seekers in the first six months of 2015. It is thought they were carried out by far right extremists.
NEWS
9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
www.euroweeklynews.com
RUSSIAN P RESS
Yoga is banned SEEN as an example of a religious cult
YOGA: Stretches the imagination.
RUSSIAN officials in Nizhnevartovsk have banned yoga classes as an example of a religious cult. The ban extends to private and municipal classes. One teacher said it stretched the imagination.
Creature from the deep A GIANT sea creature with fur and a beak has been washed up in on Sakhalin Island. The creature was ripped open with its bones showing.
Space record COSMONAUT Gennady Padalka has spent over two years in orbit during his career. Gennady said he was proud to be a record breaker and intended to continue.
Oil flows from taps ROSNEFT, the state owned oil corporation is being investigated after oil flowed out of taps in Siberia. Oil also filled backyards and damaged wildlife.
Film protocol CULTURE Minister Vladimir Medinsky has announced a sales tax on films made in Russia and the funds from the tax will be used to promote Russia in a positive way.
Laws ousted RUSSIA is to review the legislation that was enacted during the 1990’s to comply with international trade agreements. The Dean of Moscow University said they needed to be removed from the statutes.
TAP OIL: Damaged local wildlife.
Shawarma love VKONTAKTE, the social network site, has found pic-
tures of Russian girls enjoying the Arabic meat wrap Shawarma. They have 7,000 subscribers and are growing daily.
iPhone Russia iPHONE cases are being designed which have relevance to Russian history and culture. The covers depict images including Stalin, Lenin and the hammer and sickle.
Patriotic seals BAIKAL Seal Aquarium has developed a show where the seals march wearing military insignia and holding guns while mine-sweeping. “People were inspired and joyful,” said director Evgeny Baranov.
US dean fired KENDRICK WHITE has been removed as deputy head of Nizhny Novgorod State University after his position was questioned on a proKremlin news programme. Russian/ USA tension is suspected to be the reason.
Vodka fight AFTER drinking bottles of vodka a Russian beat his friend to death. The man thought that his friend’s foreign travel meant he was a spy and needed to be neutralised.
EWN
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FINANCE
Mallorca
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Spain pays more to borrow By Jason Bailey SPAIN will have to pay more to borrow funds on the international bond market due to turbulent times within the Eurozone. The rise of yields on Spain’s 10 year bonds rose to 2.720 from 2.150 in one day, and is expected to rise further if financial instability with Europe continues.
Quote of the Week
10 year bond yields rose to 2.720 from 2.150 in one day and are expected to rise further
Spain’s Economy Minister, Luis de Guindos, tried to allay fears of a further rise in costs for Spanish borrowing but his words might not be enough for markets which are increasingly cautious about the situation. Guindos stated that the Spanish and Greek economies were “very different” and therefore Spain would not suffer the same
SHOW me someone without an ego, and I’ll show you a loser.” Donald Trump
BUSINESS EXTRA
Social benefit ACCORDING to data released by the Ministry of Employment, there are 2.1 million people receiving some kind of benefit or subsidy.
Worst off PUBLIC DEMOS: Cannot be held near Congress.
Citizen safety or civil liberties THE Citizen Safety Law is now part of Spanish legislation although the opposition parties state it creates a police state. The law now allows police officers to hand out sanctions that previously could only be authorised by the courts. The Partido Popular, the ruling party that developed the legislation, said the new laws would make public demonstrations safer. Restrictions are on:
Any demonstrations near Congress and the Senate have been banned. It is an offence to take pictures of law enforcement officers without authorisation. Stopping a home eviction, or obstructing an official who is acting under powers from a court is now illegal. Protesting from the skies, buildings or monuments where there might be danger.
A REPORT by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) shows that immigrants in Spain are those worst affected by the economic crises, with the exception of Greece.
Funds used SPAIN’S Social Security Department has spent 38 per cent of the reserve fund for pensions in just three and a half years.
Not the same THE President of the Multinational Brands Association Adolfo Aguilar says he does not believe that the economic situation in Greece has any parallel with that of Spain.
China looks to Spain MADRID is to have a third development by the Chinese property company Wanda. The project, which is said to include a retail complex and a water park, has been welcomed by the city’s construction and real estate sectors but not by the mayor, Manuela Carmena. Carmena, who swept to power on
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THE Office for National shows that Greek workers put in longer hours than anyone else in Europe - 42.2 per week, compared to 35.6 in Germany. That does not necessarily mean they are the most productive.
STAT OF WEEK
business & legal
EWN
an anti-austerity ticket, has stated that many of the planning applications passed by the previous conservative council would be reviewed. Wanda has already had preliminary talks with the mayor as they are worried that the change in ruling parties could impact on its investment.
difficulties. This is true as Spain has far more economic options than Greece with greater land mass, industry and infrastructure. These factors are important to sustain the growth Spain has delivered recently, but if the financial markets are wary it will mean that they will demand Spain pays more when borrowing and this could stunt proposed growth.
IBEX 35
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TSB becomes Spanish BANCO de SABADELL has bought the British bank TSB for €2.38 billion. The takeover was approved by the Bank of England’s Prudential Regulation Authority. Although the offer period for shareholders is still open, Sabadell has received sufficient approvals to make the purchase possible. Sabadell has said it intends to develop the bank to challenge the big five banks’ monopoly on the high street.
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LONDON - FTSE 100
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PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY 3i Group 517.00 -5.50 Aberdeen Asset Management 395.35 -5.65 Admiral Group 1,396.00 -3.00 Anglo American 891.95 -10.45 Antofagasta 670.25 -11.75 ARM Holdings 1,027.00 -9.00 Ashtead Group 1,059.00 -15.00 Associated British Foods 2,864.00 -28.00 AstraZeneca 4,154.25 -12.75 Aviva 495.10 -2.80 Babcock International Group 1,074.50 -3.50 BAE Systems 450.80 -1.50 Barclays 259.15 -3.80 Barratt Developments 639.75 0.25 BG Group 1,062.00 -8.00 BHP Billiton 1,236.50 -12.00 BP 431.15 -3.25 British American Tobacco 3,451.00 -30.50 British Land Co 805.50 -1.50 BT Group 451.40 -2.40 Bunzl 1,735.00 -8.00 Burberry Group 1,542.00 -12.00 Capita Group (The) 1,260.50 -7.50 Carnival 3,305.50 -4.50 Centrica 265.90 0.10 Coca-Cola HBC 1,332.00 -11.00 Compass Group 1,060.50 4.50 CRH 1,796.50 -14.50 Diageo 1,877.25 -9.75 Direct Line Insurance Group 338.75 -0.55 Dixons Carphone 458.00 -3.70 easyJet 1,578.00 -2.00 Experian 1,161.00 -10.00 Fresnillo 685.75 2.75 G4S 265.70 -1.80 GKN 329.60 -3.20 GlaxoSmithKline 1,346.50 -1.00 Glencore 249.50 -3.15 Hammerson 629.50 -1.00 Hargreaves Lansdown 1,120.00 -15.00 Hikma Pharmaceuticals 1,947.00 -8.00 HSBC Holdings 563.85 -9.05 Imperial Tobacco Group 3,068.50 -16.50 Inmarsat 912.75 -2.25 InterContinental Hotels Gr 2,579.50 -4.50 International Consolidated Airs 483.30 -3.70 Intertek Group 2,368.00 -16.00 Intu Properties 313.60 -0.80 ITV 262.15 -0.55 Johnson Matthey 2,985.00 -8.00
% CHG. NET VOL -1.05 5,081.11 -1.41 5,339.78 -0.21 3,904.72 -1.16 12,650.14 -1.72 6,723.54 -0.87 14,630.14 -1.40 5,405.91 -0.97 22,895.22 -0.31 52,653.32 -0.56 20,142.43 -0.32 5,413.68 -0.33 14,311.34 -1.45 44,035.95 0.04 6,343.93 -0.75 36,540.19 -0.96 26,369.22 -0.75 79,326.34 -0.88 64,899.85 -0.19 8,235.71 -0.53 37,993.77 -0.46 5,835.96 -0.77 6,911.49 -0.59 8,420.73 -0.14 7,154.68 0.04 13,222.31 -0.82 4,893.80 0.43 17,534.20 -0.80 14,873.75 -0.52 47,448.46 -0.16 5,089.50 -0.80 5,316.30 -0.13 6,275.89 -0.85 11,574.48 0.40 5,032.98 -0.67 4,150.52 -0.96 5,484.73 -0.07 65,572.15 -1.25 33,041.43 -0.16 4,945.08 -1.32 5,383.52 -0.41 3,888.10 -1.58 111,791.21 -0.53 29,526.25 -0.25 4,113.61 -0.17 6,101.27 -0.76 9,931.56 -0.67 3,846.87 -0.25 4,159.89 -0.21 10,574.75 -0.27 6,133.19
COMPANY PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) Kingfisher 348.05 -2.35 Land Securities Group 1,247.50 -1.50 Legal & General Group 248.00 -2.00 Lloyds Banking Group ORD 84.31 -0.83 London Stock Exchange Grp 2,398.50 -27.50 Marks & Spencer Group 536.00 -2.50 Meggitt 457.45 -6.65 Merlin Entertainments 436.60 -0.20 Mondi 1,370.00 -15.00 Morrison (Wm) Supermarkets 175.70 -0.90 National Grid 827.45 -0.55 Next 7,490.00 -40.00 Old Mutual 203.20 -1.30 Pearson 1,215.50 -5.50 Persimmon 2,005.00 -15.00 Prudential 1,543.75 -18.75 Randgold Resources 4,288.00 28.00 Reckitt Benckiser Group 5,516.00 -10.00 Reed Elsevier 1,038.50 -13.50 Rio Tinto 2,579.50 -26.50 Rolls-Royce Group 779.25 -77.25 Royal Bank of Scotland Group 353.15 -6.15 Royal Dutch Shell 1,796.50 -15.50 Royal Dutch Shell 1,808.25 -13.25 Royal Mail 509.00 4.00 RSA Insurance Group 404.20 -4.60 SABMiller 3,291.25 -19.75 Sage Group (The) 508.00 -2.50 Sainsbury (J) 262.10 -1.20 Schroders 3,110.00 -64.00 Severn Trent 2,103.00 11.00 Shire 5,190.00 -40.00 Sky 1,043.00 -5.00 Smith & Nephew 1,081.00 -3.00 Smiths Group 1,131.50 -2.50 Sports Direct International 717.00 -0.50 SSE 1,561.50 3.50 St James's Place 910.50 -11.00 Standard Chartered 1,020.50 -10.50 Standard Life 439.75 -4.05 Taylor Wimpey 189.20 -2.10 Tesco 206.15 -1.25 Travis Perkins 2,116.50 -15.50 TUI AG 1,018.50 -31.50 Unilever 2,712.50 -19.50 United Utilities Group 885.00 2.50 Vodafone Group 230.53 -0.57 Weir Group 1,699.50 -19.50 Whitbread 4,983.50 -16.50 Wolseley 4,001.00 -22.00 WPP Group 1,423.50 -9.50
% CHG. -0.67 -0.12 -0.80 -0.97 -1.13 -0.46 -1.43 -0.05 -1.08 -0.51 -0.07 -0.53 -0.64 -0.45 -0.74 -1.20 0.66 -0.18 -1.28 -1.02 -9.02 -1.71 -0.86 -0.73 0.79 -1.13 -0.60 -0.49 -0.46 -2.02 0.53 -0.76 -0.48 -0.28 -0.22 -0.07 0.22 -1.19 -1.02 -0.91 -1.10 -0.60 -0.73 -3.00 -0.71 0.28 -0.25 -1.13 -0.33 -0.55 -0.66
NET VOL 8,168.84 9,873.89 14,856.48 60,767.60 8,425.03 8,875.90 3,655.29 4,428.04 6,724.92 4,123.77 30,977.26 11,511.38 10,073.99 10,015.72 6,192.15 40,171.66 3,967.33 39,469.82 11,821.71 36,659.31 15,747.56 23,124.75 70,569.88 44,452.08 5,050.00 4,156.50 53,518.37 5,500.12 5,057.79 7,173.95 4,976.02 30,943.39 18,015.30 9,695.20 4,476.78 4,293.99 15,471.97 4,815.75 26,248.82 8,739.25 6,223.87 16,875.11 5,305.10 6,159.33 35,064.11 6,017.67 61,270.86 3,668.02 9,086.96 10,462.09 18,704.01
0.711302
1.40587 Units per €
US dollar ....................................................................1.10744 Japan yen..................................................................135.821 Switzerland franc ................................................1.04364 Denmark kroner ..................................................7.45990 Norway kroner.........................................................8.91711
currenciesdirect.com/mallorca • Tel: +34 687 906 226
DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES J ULY 6
COMPANY MMM 3M AXP American Express AAPL Apple BA Boeing CAT Caterpillar CVX Chevron CSCO Cisco KO Coca-Cola DIS Disney DD E I du Pont de Nemours and Co XOM Exxon Mobil GE General Electric GS Goldman Sachs HD Home Depot IBM IBM INTC Intel JNJ Johnson & Johnson JPM JPMorgan Chase MCD McDonald's MRK Merck MSFT Microsoft NKE Nike PFE Pfizer PG Procter & Gamble TRV Travelers Companies Inc UTX United Technologies UNH UnitedHealth VZ Verizon V Visa WMT Wal-Mart
PRICE CHANGE %CHANGE VOLUME 2.0M -0.17% -0.27 155.38 4.6M -0.24% -0.19 78.21 -0.13% 27.2M -0.16 126.44 2.1M -0.37% -0.52 140.21 2.6M +0.51% 84.38 +0.43 6.4M -0.23% -0.22 95.87 -0.07% 15.6M -0.02 27.33 9.0M -0.03% -0.01 39.49 5.5M -0.14% -0.16 114.97 -2.34% 12.0M -1.44 59.99 9.2M +0.93% 83.14 +0.77 +0.45% 26.0M 26.78 +0.12 1.8M -0.35% -0.74 209.20 3.8M -0.52% -0.58 111.49 2.9M +0.36% 165.09 +0.60 30.56 +0.375 +1.24% 27.1M 6.1M -0.03% -0.03 98.44 -0.81% 12.8M -0.55 67.52 3.3M +0.43% 96.17 +0.41 8.5M +0.12% 57.67 +0.07 -0.10% 21.8M -0.045 44.40 3.0M +0.40% 109.87 +0.44 -0.95% 22.6M -0.32 33.37 6.6M +0.26% 79.93 +0.21 2.0M -0.07% -0.07 99.23 5.2M -1.14% -1.26 109.56 3.7M -1.27% -1.57 121.81 9.9M +0.43% 47.20 +0.20 5.1M +0.57% 68.24 +0.39 6.6M -0.03% -0.02 71.86
NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES J ULY 6
COMPANY
PRICE
CHANGE NET / %
Most Advanced ConforMIS, Inc. Xoom Corporation Applied Genetic Technologies Corporation Angie's List, Inc. Daily 2X VIX ST ETN Velocityshares The Medicines Company Ambac Financial Group, Inc. Alarm.com Holdings, Inc. Auris Medical Holding AG Chart Industries, Inc. O2Micro International Limited
$ 23.50 $ 25.05 $ 19.03 $ 6.41 $ 9.30 $ 31.28 $ 8.02 $ 17.04 $ 5.56 $ 36.79 $ 2.80
4.25 ▲ 22.08% 4.35 ▲ 21.01% 2.77 ▲ 17.04% 0.73 ▲ 12.85% 1.01 ▲ 12.18% 2.94 ▲ 10.37% 0.70 ▲ 9.56% 1.32 ▲ 8.40% 0.42 ▲ 8.17% 2.77 ▲ 8.14% 0.20 ▲ 7.69%
$ 48.10 $ 12.33 $ 49.61 $ 2.63 $ 16.77 $ 2.47 $ 12.80 $ 3.34 $ 10.65 $ 5.56 $ 4.98
21.79 ▼ 31.18% 2.60 ▼ 17.41% 10.39 ▼ 17.32% 0.42 ▼ 13.77% 1.91 ▼ 10.22% 0.24 ▼ 8.86% 1.16 ▼ 8.31% 0.30 ▼ 8.24% 0.95 ▼ 8.19% 0.47 ▼ 7.79% 0.42 ▼ 7.78%
Most Declined Liberty Global plc Vitae Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Liberty Global plc Intersections, Inc. Proteon Therapeutics, Inc. PostRock Energy Corporation Zogenix, Inc. Fairway Group Holdings Corp. VisionChina Media, Inc. Gordmans Stores, Inc. Zions Bancorporation
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FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL
www.euroweeklynews.com
Spanish mortgage relief
BUSINESS EXTRA
Election jobs IT IS estimated collective municipalities throughout Spain increased their workforce by approximately 3 per cent immediately prior to the local elections, representing around 17,000 workers.
Tax bill IT HAS been calculated that from January until July 1, Spaniards work only to pay tax on income, VAT and other government levies. From July 1 their salaries go into their pockets.
Flying colours RYANAIR has increased its passengers by 14 per cent in June to 9.5 million, 5 per cent more than in the same period in 2014. The increase is attributed partly to reduced billing rates.
More savings GROSS savings amounted to €2,076 million in the first quarter of 2015 compared to the same quarter in 2014.
BRUSSELS: Has started a judicial review into the application of the 720 model.
Is tax legislation illegal? FAILURE to complete the form or to submit without all information attracts a fine By Jason Bailey SPAIN’S adoption of tax disclosure legislation, the 720 model which requires residents to declare assets abroad valued at over €50,000, has been ruled as illegal by the European Commission. Since the ratification of the 720 model in 2012, €108,615 million in undeclared tax has
5,000 euro fine for every piece of information that has not been submitted.
been discovered and further revenue has been generated from the fines imposed. Brussels has now started a judicial review into the application of the 720 model as it believes that it infringes community rights and the sanctions imposed are disproportionate. There have been 7,013 cases started since 2013
against individuals who did not submit their Assets Abroad declaration on time. Failure to complete the form, or to submit it without all the relevant information, attracts a fine of €5,000 for every piece of information that has not been submitted. There is also no statute of limitations regarding the investigations.
BLACKSTONE GROUP LP, who purchased a tranche of Spanish home loans in 2014, has said it intends to restructure them to assist borrowers to afford their repayments or allow them to walk away from their debts. The group has said it will only foreclose on those who have the funds to pay but do not. It states that where there is genuine hardship it will restructure the loans and allow the owners to remain in their property. The mortgage portfolio was bought from the nationalised Spanish bank Catalunya Banc and cost €3.165 billion. Blackstone said although it had to address the business efficacy of the loans it did not buy them with the intention of mass evictions. It thought restructuring could take around seven years but stressed that in some cases it would advise foreclosure for the sake of the owners.
Successful women want looks not bucks when it comes to choosing a life partner Loose change Jane Plunkett A look at finance for females jane.plunkett@euroweeklynews.com
HOW many times have we seen or heard about a young beautiful girl hooking up with a fat, ugly, balding - but rich - older man? She is after his money, or so it is often presumed. Why else would she be with someone that is so much older and unattractive? Well this scenario that a woman cares more about a man’s potential income as opposed to his looks, is now a thing of the past, apparently. According to a new report, modern women are self sufficient highflyers that don’t need to rely on a successful man to make ends meet. The tables are turning. Today’s woman wants classic good looks
LIFE PARTNER: Today’s successful women want someone with brains, not just brawn. in her potential other half. A man that will give her nice, healthy and pretty babies, or so the report says. So if you’re a well built man with striking features, a chiselled jaw and sexy eyes, you could secure
yourself a comfortable future with a financially successful woman! I find this report very interesting. Indeed, who doesn’t want to snuggle up to an attractive hunky man? But this situation doesn’t
ring true for many successful women. Good looks are an appealing factor in any relationship, but their novelty is short lived. In my opinion, successful women are different to the stereo-
typical rich men with pretty young brides. Today’s successful women may play around with young attractive men, but when it comes to a life partner they want someone with brains, not just brawn. Good looks only entertain for a short amount of time, but intelligent conversation and interesting thought patterns can keep a smart girl engaged a lot longer. And again, all this depends on where in the world a women is. Women doing well in rich countries have the pick of the bunch. They can chose a hunk or a hunky intellectual. Whereas women that come from poorer countries often still do put a lot of importance on money within a relationship, because poorer circumstance urges them to seek out security. Therefore it is common to see such women with the rich, but fat and balding men!
FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL
www.euroweeklynews.com
9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
EWN
29
BUSINESS EXTRA
Caixa Bank redundancies CAIXA BANK has agreed with the union a voluntary redundancy plan for 700 workers. The agreement was made possible by increasing the amount payable on redundancy.
Having a passion for business Talking shop Mike Walsh Mike Walsh was for 20 years Regional Assessment Manager for the Guild of Master Craftsmen, Britain’s biggest quality assurance body for businesses.
www.michaelwalsh.es • 966 786 932
Rotten returns A MARKET study has shown that economising by running a washing machine at 5am saves only 70 cents per month.
Bad Bank sales MANAGEMENT company Sareb has sold 24,000 private homes in the past two years reducing its volatile assets by €6,500 million.
Single parent poverty ACCORDING to NGO Save the Children, 53.3 per cent of households at risk of poverty are single parent families compared with two parent households at 30.5 per cent.
THERE is a very true saying; ‘When you work for yourself you work for a slave driver.’ If you are not passionate about your business then neither your business nor your customers will be passionate about you. For 20 years I advised small to medium sized enterprises (SME) employers. Most conceded they put far more effort into their business than they would had they been an employee. I was constantly coming across unusual trades. It is with some amusement that I recall visiting a heavy goods vehicle hydraulic system repair specialist. The work premises seemed much like any other HGV repair centre. I needed to know as much about the business as possible before my assessment. Like Columbo, I asked questions. I discovered that the young engineer, seemingly in his early 20s, was a spe-
REPAIR CENTRE: For specialist works on hydraulic vehicle systems. cialist in hydraulic vehicle systems. Stupidly, I asked him what actually happens when I see a 30 tonne HGV up my exhaust pipe and I need to brake sharply, “Am I toast?” I asked him. My eyes glazed over as with boundless enthusiasm he took me through the exceedingly complex hydraulic system
on the aforementioned lorry that would ensure my survival. Unable to shut him up I lost the plot after five minutes . He knew what he was talking about; The Ministry of Defence (MoD) called him first when a tank, Army HGV or whatever needed attention. What I never lost was my recall of the young engi-
neer’s excitement as he explained. The other thing to remember is that your employees will never be as committed as you are; why should they be? A young builder set up on his own: “I reckon that 40 per cent of an employee’s effort was as good as you were going to get.
OPINION & COMMENT
9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
www.euroweeklynews.com
EWN
In defence of my views... MOST of the world banks and money markets are run by Jews and Arabs LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT ENOUGH already! I am now about to break the habit of a lifetime and attempt to explain my motives for an article I penned a couple of weeks ago. In it I stated that the Jews and Arabs were the biggest investors in the world money markets. At no time did I suggest that there was anything wrong with this situation, quite the contrary. As a capitalist, I actually consider it quite commendable that the Jewish bankers in particular, without the natural resources of the Arabs, have attained such success, particularly in the light of the horrors and misfortunes they have had to endure throughout their turbulent history. However, one doesn’t have to surf too deeply into the realms of the internet to discover my remarks were merely a statement of the facts as I perceived them. Most of the world banks and money markets are in fact run by the Jewish and Arab races. The Roth-
SHALOM: Will Arabs and Jews ever stand together as allies? I can understand how some of my remarks could have been unfortunately misconstrued
schilds alone own or control scores of banks, estimated to be worth some one hundred trillion dollars. It would be utterly naïve to underestimate the sheer power that wealth of this magnitude can bring to a relative minority of people. On
re-reading my piece I can see that when I remarked that the wealthy controlled the world, it could have been somewhat unfortunately misconstrued that I was specifically accusing the Jews and Arabs of some kind of international conspiracy. This was not my intention at all. If I have upset some readers I truly do apologise unreservedly. I am most certainly not anti-Semitic and I’m sure my Jewish grandmother would be horrified to even have it considered. I will however defend my statement that the Jews and Arabs are still arch-enemies or did I miss something here? Have Hamas stopped lobbing missiles over Israel’s borders? Does Iran no longer want to wipe Israel off the face of the Earth? Can Israeli passport-holders now travel freely into Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries? Sadly, this conflict is still as unresolved as ever. Will we live to see the Arabs and Jews standing together as friends and allies? Wouldn’t that be something? Shalom. Keep the Faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com
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E W N 9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
www.euroweeklynews.com
OPINION & COMMENT
Some positive thinking Cassandra Nash A weekly look - and not entirely impartial reaction to the Spanish political scene
RAJOY is so confident - or unperceptive - he told an interviewer he has no enemies inside Partido Popular. This could be touching faith in himself or those he trusts but for someone in his position it betrays a dangerous lack of imagination.
A blind spot ONLY professional fixers disdain the “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it” school of thought. Spain’s president Mariano Rajoy, who conspicuously avoids as much fixing as possible, has a blind spot regarding repairs. If indiscreet insiders are to be believed, his first reaction after the May 24 election results was mild satisfaction that the Partido Popular was still the most-voted party. After it was pointed out to him voters appeared to want change, the
Whiter than white president JUAN MANUEL VEGA, director general of Spain’s antimoney laundering agency Sepblac was named vice-president of the Financial Action Task Force at a Brisbane meeting. He takes over the presidency of the global laundering-prevention forum in July 2015.
president said there’d be adjustments. Giving more prominence to Health minister Alfonso Alonso and substituting unloved Education minister Jose Ignacio Wert with Iñigo Mendez de Vigo were Rajoy-style tweakings. At best these could be described as minimalist: minimal change, minimal upheaval and for Rajoy himself, minimal loss of power.
Get a life POLITICIANS and the legal profession didn’t like it when ‘life
Who better? Vega has had plenty of practice on his home ground, where corruption and money-laundering were until recently treated as an art form.
means life’ sentences were added to Spain’s new penal code. All political groups currently in Opposition announced they would revoke the law should they ever be in power. This attitude is unlikely to lose them votes but neither will it gain them. The general public are largely unbothered about that particular piece of legislation and significantly less upset than the huge fines that could be slapped on unauthorised demonstrations. Free speech matters more than occasional isolated life-long incarceration for sadists or terrorists.
MARIANO RAJOY: Avoids as much fixing as possible.
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OPINION & COMMENT
9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
www.euroweeklynews.com
EWN
33
I’m not sure if I should be writing this but... Enric Serra Flickr
NEW public security law will limit freedom of speech and right to peaceful protest Vicki McLeod
Family Matters SPAIN brought in its new public security law this week; it sets new limits on our freedom of speech and reduces our right to peaceful protest. If you or I breach these new laws we could be fined from €100 to €600,000 depending on the severity of the crime. Things that could get you into trouble now include: protesting, disrupting public events, social media activism, photographing members of the police, leaving furniture in the street, drinking outdoors, trying to stop an eviction, not having your ID, and disrespecting a police officer. If you’ve read some of my previous columns then you will already know that I could now be guilty of at least seven of these, and that’s just by being a little outspoken, or forgetful, not by being in any way an activist or having any particular axe to grind.
CLAMPDOWN: Demonstrations without prior permission can be banned. Even peaceful protests or demonstrations can be banned if they don’t have permission beforehand. If I were to ask you all to
sign a petition online via my social media channels I could be fined. It’s all an attempt to subdue the ‘Indignado’ movement which has
gained a lot of confidence from recent events in Greece. It is obvious that the government is preparing for the forthcoming
elections. After the recent events in Greece, what can we expect? As a resident of Spain, but not a citizen, I have all of the responsibilities (the taxes) but none of the benefits (the vote). Is there even any point in me taking notice of what is going on around me in the political world? Well, yes, of course there is because even though I cannot affect it, it can and does affect me, and my family. It’s all to do with to what degree you do this, which is what is the most worrying. If you prevent people from having the right to express themselves, then it’s the beginning of a slippery slope back down to the days of Franco, fear and oppression. I’m going to go on to my Facebook now and have a whinge about this, whilst drinking a glass of wine in my back garden. Better not let the cops know about that though... or I’ll end up in clink. www.familymattersmallorca.com
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E W N 9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
www.euroweeklynews.com
OPINION & COMMENT
A carnival of fond memories
OUR VIEW
Colin Bird A weekly look Each week, Colin brings his slightly off-the-wall view of the world to the pages of EWN in his own irreverent style.
EACH year as Mother Nature turns up the heat and we perspire into July, I am reminded of past English summer days and in particular the annual flower show and carnival in our Suffolk village. We shake our heads and make jokes about the unreliable British weather, but for the most part my memories of this much anticipated local event are of sultry Saturdays, or at the very least pleasantly warm days, with only the occasional hint of rain. Rarely, it seems, was the day ruined by a downpour or the need to wrap up warm against unseasonal elements. Or perhaps it is just the brain selecting good memories from the not so good, and shunting less successful occasions to the back alleys of the mind, because my boyhood memories of summer school holidays spent in glorious Devon, or exploring the countryside on our bikes and fishing the local River Kennet, are also of long hot days and balmy nights. In any event whatever the weather, the Carnival Day beer marquee always
ABUSE: All too common.
A violent epidemic CARNIVAL DAY: Huge amounts of freshly baked fancies were washed down with gallons of tea. pulled in more than its fair share of custom, as did the Women’s Institute hall where huge amounts of freshly baked cakes and fancies, and mouth watering savoury delights were washed down with gallons of tea. The ladies of our WI were nothing like those who are often caricatured in print - all sun hats and varicose veins, and knitting willy warmers to the strains of Jerusalem played on an
out of tune piano - but covered a wide age range and were a giggling, well drilled team ablaze in their summer frocks and flowery blouses; a gaggle of brightly coloured females with impressive buns . . . and pies. In maligning the unreliable summer weather of the Mother Country, we tend to forget that the beautiful English countryside would not be what it is if the UK experienced
Spanish type summers and dry, warm winters. The oft quoted comment that England would be the perfect country if we were able to access the Mediterranean climate is therefore paradoxical nonsense. With the choice of a sweltering arid landscape, or the lush green countryside that so epitomises our country - I know which I prefer.
It’s certainly a dog’s life SOME dog owners hold conversations with their dogs as though they were humans Mike Walsh Mike, based in Mediterranean Spain, is an international journalist, author and professional writer.
WE sophisticated Westerners, depending on how well or badly we were dragged up, scoff or curl the lip at Hindu reverence towards cattle. Our Indian friends are hardly alone; animal worship throughout the world is quite common. Some of us are made of sterner stuff. Yours truly is just one generation removed from a farming family. With the help and sturdy companionship of dogs, we lived as farmers for 1,000 years. Farm dogs were extremely intelligent, disciplined, loyal and useful. Most of us will have watched the BBC series,
One Man and His Dog. I relate to it well. I spent happy years as a schoolboy in Corwen and Bala in N o r t h Wales. I don’t recall dogs as pets; partners in farm management c e r t a i n l y, but not pets. Here in Spain, however, the canine species has morphed into a foot-dragging, illdisciplined couchsurfing grubby bag of fur. If you will excuse the
I don’t recall dogs as pets, more like partners in farm management.
expression, we tend to ape Ancient Egyptians who venerated the cat species. They decorated their walls with images and statuettes of cats. We prefer portraits of Rex and Fido, which I think is acting the goat. Now, animal worship is all well and good if that is your thing. Live and let live is my motto. What I cannot understand is some dog owners hold conversations with their dogs as ANCIENT EGYPT: Decorated their walls with cats.
DOMESTIC violence, has sadly become a commonplace occurrence with a total of seven people murdered in violent incidents in just one weekend recently. Those deaths came on the heels of another incident the same week in which a whole family, a six-year-old boy, his 14-year-old sister, the father, 37 and his mother, 64 were found dead. We have become accustomed to reading such news across Spain, and although there are educational campaigns to prevent abuse as well as prevention units with staff on hand ready to respond to incidents, the violence continues. In fact, an epidemic of violence seems to be occurring which we cannot ignore. The truth is, members of ordinary families are being wiped out because of domestic abuse and it raises questions as to why this is such a disturbing feature in our society. While many would like to dismiss such incidents as simply crimes of passion, serious research into the causes of such trends is woefully inadequate. Whether they are committed by jealous, possessive partners who cannot control their rage, or individuals with mental issues, society needs to investigate what on earth is happening and why.
though they were human companions. Ever thought of adopting or fostering a human rather than a canine child, ma’am? The Royal Society for the Prevention of cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) was founded in in 1824; the National Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSCPP) was founded in 1894. Notice kids don’t get the Royal stamp of approval. In Denmark you can’t buy a pit bull terrier but you can visit the dog brothel. In Germany bestiality brothels are legal. Keep your eyes on your dogs, folk. They are on the lookout for good looking canines. Now we One of my mother ’s oft want to used expressions was, hear your news. ‘there’s nowt so queer as folk.’ YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE Well said, mother. - YOUR OPINION RIP mum and a sense of www.euroweeklynews.com proportion.
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E W N 9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
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THURSDAY 09 JULY
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Tennis BBC News at Six BBC London News The One Show Britain Beneath Your Feet EastEnders Celebrity MasterChef BBC News at Ten BBC London News Question Time This Week
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MONDAY 13 JULY
TUESDAY 14 JULY
WEDNESDAY 15 JULY
11:30pm 11:45pm 11:50pm 12:20am
Prized Apart The National Lottery: Who Dares Wins Casualty The John Bishop Show BBC News Weather Not Going Out Would I Lie to You?
7:35pm 7:50pm 7:55pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:30pm 11:50pm 11:55pm 12:00am
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9:30pm
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Phil Spencer: Secret Agent Channel 4 News Grand Designs Amazing Spaces: Shed of the Year Humans 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown Rude Tube
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5 News Neighbours Home and Away 5 News Police Interceptors Stop! Roadworks Ahead Big Brother Under the Dome Big Brother's Bigger Bit on the Side
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10:00pm 10:15pm 10:30pm 10:45pm 11:00pm 12:00am 5:00pm 5:15pm 5:30pm 5:45pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am
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OPINION & COMMENT
9 - 15 July 2015 /Mallorca
www.euroweeklynews.com
EWN
37
Advertising Feature
Euro remains steady Commentary by Moneycorp EUR With Greece having again voted no in their referendum, it would be reasonable for investors to be running around like headless chickens. But they aren’t. They have had five months’ preparation for this and they are taking it all with exceptional aplomb. In the last week, although the euro has fallen by one and a quarter US cents, it has remained steady against sterling and strengthened by an average of 0.4 per cent against the other dozen most actively-traded currencies. USD Although the Japanese yen was the topperforming major currency the dollar came in a comfortable second, strengthening by a cent and a quarter against sterling and by a cent against the euro. To an extent investors were buying it for its safe-haven qualities, but there were also some decent US economic data to help it along. Wednesday was the dollar’s best day, thanks to the ADP employment change figure and the purchasing managers’ index from the manufacturing sector. One showed more than the expected number of people in
work; the other pointed to a faster acceleration in private sector business activity. Thursday’s official payrolls numbers fell short of forecast by 70k but were only briefly damaging to the dollar. CAD None of the Commonwealth dollars had a great week. The Loonie suffered equally with the Australian dollar while the NZ dollar took rather more of a hammering. Overall the Canadian dollar fell by a cent and three quarters against sterling and it was down by one and a third US cents. It was basically a confidence thing. Two situations bothered investors. One was the long-running saga of Greece’s solvency, which sank to new lows when it failed on Tuesday to make a scheduled €1.6bn repayment to the International Monetary Fund. The other worry was Chinese share prices, which fell by another 12 per cent over the week. A home-grown problem for the Loonie was the gross domestic product data for April, which showed the economy shrinking for a fourth consecutive month.
Clarisse Musselwhite is Moneycorp’s Account Manager for Mallorca
She can be contacted on Tel: +34 902 887 243 Mobile: +34 687 932 472 Email:mallorca@moneycorp.com
902887243 mallorca@moneycorp.com AUD None of the Commonwealth dollars had a great week. The Aussie suffered equally with the Canadian dollar while the NZ dollar took rather more of a hammering. Overall the Australian dollar fell by a cent and three quarters against sterling and it was down by one and a quarter US cents. It was basically a confidence thing. Two situations bothered investors. One
was the long-running saga of Greece's solvency, which sank to new lows when it failed on Tuesday to make a scheduled €1.6bn repayment to the International Monetary Fund. The other worry was Chinese share prices, which fell by another 12 per cent over the week. A home-grown problem for the Aussie was the retail sales data for May, which were much weaker than expected. NZD Overall the Kiwi fell by three and three quarter cents against sterling and it was down by one and three quarter US cents, making it the week’s biggest loser among the major currencies. But investors also have concerns about New Zealand itself, especially in view of the global milk surplus which has pushed down prices for one of the country’s biggest exports. The suspicion is that it could put increased downward pressure on NZ interest rates.
38
E W N 9 - 15 July 2015 / Mallorca
LETTERS
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OPINION & COMMENT
YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE - YOUR OPINION
Letters for Your Say should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments straight on our website: www.euroweeklynews.com
Fishing dilemma solution not too difficult to reel in... OH, Steve P, what can you do? You wanted to buy a fishing licence (Letters, Issue 1565) and they sent you back to Crewe. No doubt the environment agency offered you the correct forms to fill out in 75 different languages and informed you that if you could not understand them they would offer you a free translator. I hope Steve P is not basing his assumption that Spain will go down the tubes on the fact that he cannot buy a €15 (not sure of the current cost) fishing licence. As I understand it Spain is recovering quite well from the recession and is not helped by the sort of negative comments made by him. Where else can you live amongst very friendly Spanish neighbours, enjoy superb weather, buy a menu del dia for €8.50 and generally live the good life. However, back to his complaint. There are three very simple ways to solve the problem: 1. Learn the language and try again; 2. Take a translator with you or 3. Employ a gestoria to do it for you. Ways 2 and 3 do not cost a fortune and you will be helping the economy that you are quick to put down. Easy, job done! Yours, a very happy, fully licensed and insured fisherman living La Buena Vida here in beautiful Andalucia. Robert Coatman, La Palomo (Manilva)
True ladies HAVING been introduced to ladies’ football as a result of watching the Women’s World Cup, it occurs to me that there are three standout questions that require closer investigation: Why do women not spit before and after free kicks, whilst they are waiting to come on or, come to think of it, why don’t they spit at all? Why don’t they constantly dispute the referee’s decisions, ganging up on her en masse in an attempt to get her to change
Photographs for possible publication should be sent by email with a full caption to: photonews@euroweeklynews.com
Not quite… I ALMOST always agree with everything Leapy says; however, doesn’t he see that poor old Cliff Richard (all editions, Issue 1565) obviously does not intend for the UK taxman to get any more of his money after the way the police treated him. And for death duties, they can swing for that too. As for the tennis, who cares? Cliff is obviously just so disgusted with the whole lot of them. And he can watch it on TV, if he gives a damn. Not all innocent people go round screaming blue murder; it’s usually the guilty who take that approach. Otherwise, I’m happy to keep the faith, right along with you. Patsy (By email)
Good views I took a trip to the lovely city of Sevilla, but boy was it hot! We had to wait for the sun to start going down before we could cool off. John Marshall (Valencia) her mind? Why don’t we get close-ups of them screaming invective and telling each other to ’eff-off'? Ah well, I suppose given time they’ll learn how proper footballers behave! Ken Turner, San Fulgencio (Alicante)
Russian hype HARDLY a week passes without Mike Walsh using his column in your publication to promote Russian propaganda and decry the West. Your response will probably be that this is in the best traditions of press freedom; fair enough! But do you not owe it to your readers to employ a columnist with opposing views to those of Mr Walsh to maintain a fair balance? Would you support the BBC if it chose to only give air time to one
political party, which is exactly what you are doing? Is any member of your staff charged with checking the facts and figures he quotes; if not, should you not issue a quote that they are unconfirmed? Finally, if Mike believes so vehemently in Russia’s action on the world stage and its threat to world stability should he not live there and financially support it instead of being domiciled in a Europe he obviously despises as being weak and easily influenced? George Morland, Cartagena (Murcia) Editor’s note We do believe in free speech at the EWN. Mike Walsh’s views are controversial, but he has every right to express them. His views, and those of all our columnists, are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of the EWN.
Quite right I READ Leapy’s article on corruption in the world (all editions, Issue 1564) and think he is completely correct. I have been saying it for years but people think I should be committed, or they are probably ashamed that they have been controlled and didn’t realise or want to hear it. Wars are not started by the people but by the arms and military equipment producers. They kid the members of the forces that they are protecting their country. The probable truth is the members of the armed forces are risking their lives to line the pockets of the already filthy rich. I could go on but I think Leapy gets where I’m coming from. Congratulations to him on a great article. I am looking forward to more. W Parker (By email)
I DON’T get to read Leapy’s column every week, but when I do, I mostly agree with his sentiments. This latest one regarding the electronic tag removal is just ludicrous! I agree with Leapy when he made the point that indeed the man in question should be fitted with an explosive device. If this person was so afflicted then he should be sectioned and sent to a mental hospital, although I am not sure whether there are any hospitals left now. Apparently the Met police have been told to stop chasing motor cyclists when the riders remove their helmets. How utterly absurd, especially if they have committed a serious crime. Keep up the good tirades Neil (By email)
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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EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREA
Word Ladder
Mallorca
for next 7 days
weather
TODAY
Move from the start word (WEST) to the end word (BANK) in the same number of steps as there are rungs on the Word Ladder. You must only change one letter at a time.
WEST WENT WEND WAND BAND BANK
BANK BACK
MADDOCKS’ VIEW ON LIFE
ALCUDIA
POLLENÇA
CALA MILLOR
INCA
CALVIA
CALA d’OR
PALMA ANDRATX
LLUCMAJOR MAGALLUF
WEST WENT RENT RANT RANK BANK or
WEST
TIME
TOMORROW
ALCUDIA
POLLENÇA
‘SHUT THE FRONT DOOR, DARLING - YOU’RE LETTING THE HEAT IN!’
CALA MILLOR
INCA
CALVIA
CALA d’OR
PALMA ANDRATX
LLUCMAJOR MAGALLUF
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) It could be that you are feeling a little below par at the moment. You may
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21) Get some rest and peace because, if you let yourself get too tired, your temper could suffer. When it comes to business get it over with so that you can spend extra time on your social life. Something important is round the corner.
Nonagram
TARGET: Average: 13 Good: 17 Very good: 24 Excellent: 30
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 R) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION deny doer doge dogy done dory dour dreg drey drug dune dung dyer dyne edgy herd hoed hued nerd node nude redo rend rode rude rued undo dough doyen drone dungy gored gourd guyed honed horde hound hydro nerdy nudge round under urged dehorn doughy drogue gerund gourde ground gurned horned hoyden nudger rouged undoer yonder guerdon roughed undergo hydrogen GREYHOUND
ARIES (March 21 - April 20) You may well feel that your business life is not going as well as you would have hoped this week. They do say that you can’t have everything right at once. This is a good time to enjoy the company of others and make your love life buzz.
Fri Sat Sun -
Madrid
SUNNY MAX 28C, MIN 22C Mon - 30 23 S Tues - 31 23 S Wed - 31 23 S MAX 31C, MIN 23C Mon - 31 24 S Tues - 31 25 S Wed - 32 26 S MAX 29C, MIN 23C MAX MIN
30 23 S 31 23 S 31 24 S
Mon - 31 24 S Tues - 31 24 S Wed - 32 24 S
Benidorm TODAY:
MAX 29C, MIN 23C
31 24 S 31 24 S 32 25 S
Mon - 32 26 S Tues - 33 26 S Wed - 33 26 S
S Sun,
Cl Clear,
Sh Showers,
10-Star Quiz
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. UK THUNDERBALL
IRISH LOTTO
EURO MILLIONS
LA PRIMITIVA
EL GORDO DE LA PRIMITIVA
Saturday July 4
Saturday July 4
Friday July 3
Saturday July 4
Sunday July 5
Saturday July 4
13
14
35
39
46
49
3
1 37
31 39
2
12
14
18
36
43
BONUS BALL
THUNDERBALL
BONUS BALL
3
3
22
11
12 18
15 44
LUCKY STARS
3
9
181
198
28
45
46
49
REINTEGRO
4
35
SUNNY MAX 29C, MIN 21C
TODAY:
MAX MIN
Fri Sat Sun -
MAX MIN
32 24 S 33 24 S 32 24 S SUNNY
TODAY:
Mon - 32 23 S Tues - 32 23 S Wed - 33 23 S MAX 32C, MIN 18C
MAX MIN
Fri Sat Sun -
MAX MIN
32 19 S 34 20 S 34 20 S
Mon - 34 21 S Tues - 36 21 S Wed - 36 21 S
2
13 17
15 43
REINTEGRO
1
SUNNY MAX 33C, MIN 22C
TODAY:
MAX MIN
MAX MIN
Sudoku
UK NATIONAL LOTTERY
Mon - 40 23 S Tues - 40 24 S Wed - 39 24 S
Murcia
SUNNY MAX MIN
Fri Sat Sun -
MAX MIN
39 23 S 38 23 S 38 24 S
Mallorca
SUNNY MAX MIN
Fri Sat Sun -
Fri Sat Sun -
MAX MIN
29 24 S 31 24 S 31 24 S
Barcelona TODAY:
MAX 39C, MIN 23C
MAX MIN
Malaga
SUNNY MAX MIN
Fri Sat Sun -
GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Because you are about to enter an active phase, it would be best to keep things as straightforward and organised as possible. Those around you may be less than exciting at the moment, so keep the interest going with joint activities and accepting interesting invitations.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20) For some time, things on the romantic front have been confusing, to say the least. There are decisions that someone has to make that affect you seriously. Romantically and
29 22 S 29 23 S 30 23 S
SUNNY
TODAY:
MAX MIN
Almeria TODAY:
TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) There is something of the rebel in you this week. Even you don’t fully understand the changes taking place. You will resist any attempt to stop from expressing yourself freely. Although you prefer a peaceful time, it may be necessary to remind someone of your rights.
AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) Energy is low but your spirit seems to be getting power from somewhere. At times, it feels that it is almost outside of your own sphere. When tackling what is seen as a tedious task, you may not be aware that you are building something for the future, but there is much going on that will affect your future to a large extent.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Despite pulling out all the stops when it comes to a certain person or project, your charm may not be working as well as usual this week. It is still a fine time to beaver on quietly in the background. A few emotional fireworks make you sit up and take notice, but try to be open-minded.
Alicante TODAY:
MAX MIN
CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) Sometimes you shuffle things around to survive difficult times. The energy that this uses means that realising a dream this week could mean difficult choices to be made. Your need to be settled makes you impatient.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Although you feel like going it alone at the moment, you would do well to involve someone close in your project or exercise. There is room for improvement in both your life and your health but it can be more enjoyable if shared. Expect surprises in your love life and you will not be surprised.
assume it is because of a recent emotional upset, but it is unlikely to be quite that simple. Spend a bit of time and money on yourself for a change. Develop your talents in the realms of writing, painting and music. This need not take a large amount of time. Start with one simple project.
LOTTERY
LEO (July 24 - August 23) Arm yourself with plenty of information about what is going on in your life at the moment. Those close might expect you to lead the way on an important matter. You need to trust your instincts more and have confidence. Think in the long term. Those who are not considered important now could be so in the future. As you prefer being in charge, this should not seem unnatural to you.
(June 22 - July 23)
Fri Sat Sun -
F Fog, Sn Snow,
MAX MIN
36 23 S 36 23 S 36 23 S
Mon - 37 23 S Tues - 37 23 S Wed - 37 24 S
C Cloudy, Th Thunder
MARY, MARY, QUITE CONTRARY 1. In which fictional village does Agatha Christie’s renowned detective spinster Miss Jane Marple live? 2. Left a good job in the city, workin’ for the man ev’ry night and day are the opening lines of which John Fogarty song, originally a 1969 UK Top 10 hit for Creedence Clearwater Revival? 3. Mary Ann Evans was the real name of which famous 19th century novelist? 4. Mary Ann Nichols and Mary Jane Kelly are, respectively, reputed to have been the first and final what? 5. The Gothic novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus is the best known work by which English writer? 6. The songs A Spoonful of Sugar, Chim Chim Cher-ee and Let’s Go Fly a Kite all featured in which 1964 film musical? 7. What is the name of the Welsh-born singer who represented the UK in the 1970 Eurovision Song Contest with the song Knock Knock, Who's There? 8. What was the name of the early motion-picture actress, nicknamed America’s Sweetheart, who co-founded the film studio United Artists, along with Charlie Chaplin, D W Griffith and Douglas Fairbanks in 1919? 9. Which famous social activist founded the National Viewers’ and Listeners’ Association (now known as Mediawatch-uk) in 1965? 10. Which iconic fashion designer, who was an instrumental figure in the 1960s London-based Mod and youth fashion movements, was one of the designers who took credit for the miniskirt and hot pants? 1. ST MARY MEAD, 2. PROUD MARY, 3. GEORGE ELIOT, 4. VICTIMS OF JACK THE RIPPER, 5. MARY Wollstonecraft SHELLEY, 6. MARY POPPINS, 7. MARY HOPKIN, 8. MARY PICKFORD, 9. MARY WHITEHOUSE, 10. MARY QUANT
YOUR STARS
emotionally, things come to a head but don’t let the wind of change blow away all that you have achieved. Don’t begin to doubt yourself or others will, too.
Have you been a bit of a couch potato recently? Spend some of this week working towards a healthy mind in a healthy body. Running yourself ragged should certainly be avoided. Seek expert advice now about a problem that just won’t go away. It will, but only with a lot of effort. Although you prefer to share your activities, this is one area that you need to concentrate on fully, so go for it alone to begin with.
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AK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE
Crossword
EWN
Enjoy filling in the following puzzles and check the answers in next week’s edition
Quick
Code Breaker
Across 7 Panther cat (6) 8 Public building for gambling (6) 10 Surprise or frighten suddenly (7) 11 Increase the level or amount of something (5) 12 Do what one is told (4) 13 Information tag (5) 17 Bet (5) 18 Counterfeit (4) 22 Distinctive odour that is pleasant (5) 23 Talk idly or rapidly (7) 24 In high spirits (6) 25 If not, except when (6)
Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 15 represents F and 17 represents G, so fill in F every time the figure 15 appears and G every time the figure 17 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.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS CRYPTIC Across: 1 Lately, 3 Desert, 8 Linctus, 10 Avian, 11 Orate, 12 Anemone, 13 Hotel, 15 Frost, 20 Amiable, 22 Spade, 24 Iliad, 25 Sustain, 26 Gannet, 27 Athens.
Down: 1 Lollop, 2 Tonga, 4 Erase, 5 Editors, 6 Tinker, 7 Oscar, 9 There, 14 Opinion, 16 Roses, 17 Daring, 18 Leash, 19 Tennis, 21 Budge, 23 Awake
QUICK Across:
Down 1 Seasonal wind in southern Asia (7) 2 Without strain or anxiety (7) 3 Footwear (5) 4 Person who shoes horses (7) 5 Shin bone (5) 6 Hide (5) 9 State of being degenerate in mental or moral qualities (9)
14 Nightclub entertainment (7) 15 Associate (7) 16 Invigorate (7)
English - Spanish
19 Enthusiastic (5) 20 Grinding tooth (5) 21 Increases (5)
Down: 1 Races, 2 Scarlet, 3 Loses, 4 Escape, 6 Twice, 7 Pleased, 8 Scarce, 13 Learned, 14 Stress, 16 Trainee, 17 Rabbit, 19 Sheds, 20 Donor, 21 Amass
The clues are mixed, some clues are in Spanish and some are in English.
Across 1 Barato (económico) (5) 3 To kiss (5) 7 Towel (6) 9 Obedecer (4) 10 Courgette (9) 13 Leer (4) 14 Customs (6) 16 Paz (tranquilidad, no guerra) (5) 17 Dressing gowns (5) Down 1 Gatos (4) 2 Todo (en su totalidad) (3) 4 Niece (7) 5 Stripe (line) (4) 6 To change (7) 8 Stewardess (7) 11 Trampa (para cazar) (4) 12 Sierras (herramientas) (4) 15 Grape (3)
Hexagram
1 Resolved, 5 Stop, 9 Classic, 10 Crime, 11 Sells, 12 Parcels, 13 Latest, 15 Rested, 18 Austria, 20 Drama, 22 Needs, 23 Bonanza, 24 Dash, 25 Starters.
ENGLISH-SPANISH Across:
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
1 Camisa, 4 Boca, 8 Forks, 9 Hielo, 10 Briefcase, 13 Suave, 15 Plata, 16 Ruta, 17 Battle.
Down: 1 Cuff, 2 Mirar, 3 Sostener, 5 One, 6 Año, 7 Chickpea, 11 Start, 12 Hake, 13 Sur, 14 Ant.
Cryptic The purpose of the Hexagram puzzle is to place the 19 sixletter 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 (BARELY) and one letter in four other cells are given as clues.
ABOARD
HANDED
ANGERS
HEADER
BARELY (10)
PAPERS
BAREST
PRAYER
BARREL
RABBLE
BATTER
ROARED
BURDEN
STARRY
DEALER
TRAMPS
ELDERS
WIZARD
FLOATS
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION 1 Senses 2 Tinder 3 Cheers 4 Burden 5 Larder 6 Metres 7 Fender 8 Nobler 9 Indent 10 Fables 11 Resent 12 Tested 13 Felloe 14 Riders 15 Pastel 16 Briefs 17 Estate 18 Peered 19 Advent
Across 1 Parts of a fish used for balance (6) 4 Bright visitors arrive by backstreet (6) 9 Convert into cash may be earliest without team leader (7) 10 Court service admitted trickery (5) 11 Musical passage contains main trombone (5) 12 Sandier sort of fish (7) 13 Train's speed confuses walkers (11) 18 Most are moved by this super conductor (7) 20 Daughter is company for the nightclub (5) 22 Stretch your neck to see the bird (5) 23 A monk accommodating graduate in a state (7) 24 Seat put near Peg (6) 25 Female writer getting wet (6) Down 1 Injury initially received in European country (6) 2 Work for an actor on his own? (5) 3 Wept heartily, is poem one of a series? (7) 5 Happen when carbon and copper are set in gold (5)
6 I save on making excuse (7) 7 Crossword compiler’s dog (6) 8 A nation less corrupt is commanding attention (11) 14 The gate Len made is very posh (7) 15 Moon goddess following in a state
(7) 16 Enthusiastic kisses or corporal punishment (6) 17 Territory governed by the same chief (6) 19 Film music of Keith Emerson? (5) 21 Neither flat nor blunt (5)
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OPINION & COMMENT
Gettysburg remembered To mark 150 years since the end of the American Civil War we take a look at one of its most costly battles
MAISNA / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
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HISTORIC: The three-day, bloody struggle regularly re-enacted.
Peter Fieldman London-born journalist and author, Peter spends his time between Paris and Madrid. His novel ‘1066 The Conquest’ is available on Amazon or www.1066TheConquest.com
www.pfieldman.blogspot.com
O
ne hundred and fifty years ago, (July 1-4) after five years of bitter fighting, the American Civil War ended. At the height of the war, in November 1863, President Abraham Lincoln attended a memorial ceremony to commemorate the battle of Gettysburg. Four months earlier, the Pennsylvanian countryside on the outskirts of the town had been the scene of the most costly battle in American history.
600,000 number of Americans who died in the civil war. It was a battle which was neither foreseen nor planned. At the end of June 1863 the Confederate general, Robert E Lee, buoyed by victory at Chancellorsville, had led his army north across the Potomac river into Pennsylvania. The Union army, aware of the potential threat to Washington, was also on the move. Neither side knew precisely the exact position of its adversary. It was by pure chance that a Confederate incursion into Gettysburg confronted Union soldiers who hap-
pened to be in the town. Gettysburg had no military significance but once each army’s commander received news of the enemy’s presence it set off a disastrous chain of events. An astute commander, Lee knew that moving north would cut his supply lines and began to move his troops towards Gettysburg. Meanwhile Union divisions had already positioned themselves north and west of the town and on July 1 the first shots were fired. The fighting lasted most of the day until the Confederate troops pushed back the outnumbered Union divisions. At dawn on July 2, the Union army had established defensive positions in the form of a fishhook on high ground known as Cemetery Ridge. Led by General George Meade, the Union side was growing stronger as reinforcements arrived. Less than one mile separated the two armies. Lee’s strategy was to outflank the Union defensive position and take Cemetery Ridge from the rear. General James Longstreet led the first attack. However the Union generals had spotted the threat and a counter attack by General Sickles’ division resulted in substantial casualties on both sides in the sectors known as the Wheatfield, Peach Orchard and Devil’s Den. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was a university professor, who had volunteered to join the Union army. He had been ordered to move his 20th Maine Regiment south of Cemetery Ridge to a wooded hill called Little Round Top to protect the left flank and to hold it at all cost. The 20th Maine held the high ground and repeated attacks by Con-
Lincoln’s speech remains an inspiration
federate infantry failed to breach the Union defensive positions. Chamberlain’s force of around 350 men was rapidly running out of ammunition. With no help or supplies arriving Chamberlain ordered his remaining forces to fix bayonets and charge downhill in a sweeping movement. The tired Confederate soldiers, taken by surprise, turned and retreated downhill in disarray. It was the turning point of the battle. Seeing the attacks on the flanks repelled, Lee decided to change his strategy. At dawn on July 3 despite the reticence of Longstreet and other officers, he ordered a frontal attack to break the Union centre, weakened, in his opinion, by the transfer of troops to defend the flanks. After a two-hour artillery bombardment of Cemetery Ridge, the infamous ‘Pickett’s Charge’ began. More than 12,000 men led by General George Pickett advanced across open fields clambering over fences and stonewalls over a distance of more than half a mile. It was inevitable that heavy losses would be sustained, but Lee believed his strategy would lead to the collapse of the Union lines. The first casualties were felled by cannon fire. As they came within range, canister fire and grenades brought down more soldiers and as they neared the Union
LOSSES: The battle resulted in 50,000 casualties. lines, volleys of musket fire opened up at close range. More than 5,000 Confederate infantry were left dead or wounded strewn across the field. Lee and his generals could only watch in horror as the remnants of Pickett’s division hobbled back to the Confederate lines. By the morning of July 4 Lee’s army was wending its way slowly back to Virginia. The Union army, having also suffered considerable losses, made no attempt to pursue the Confederates. The three-day battle resulted in more than 50,000 casualties. On the same day news arrived that the siege of Vicksburg on the Mississippi had ended and General Grant had entered the city. Despite these major Union victories the South did not capitulate and
the war, which cost the lives of over 600,000 Americans, was to drag on for another two years before Lee finally surrendered at the Appomattox Courthouse. Joshua Chamberlain and James Longstreet survived the battle and the war despite being wounded on several occasions. Chamberlain returned to Maine and became a four-term governor of the state. Longstreet also entered politics. Both men died in their eighties in 1914 and 1904 respectively. As for Abraham Lincoln’s twominute speech, it was virtually ignored until many years after his death people began to appreciate the brilliance of the language and its meaning. The Gettysburg Address remains an inspiration to all those who believe in freedom.
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England is not a nation of walkers
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Give yourself a pat on the back when you deserve it
2nd July
REMEMBER that we are human, not bionic Erica Russell Watson:
months. My next oncology appointment is in November so now is all about resting and repairing my heart, soul, body and mind.
My journey – and I’m driving
REGULAR WALKS: Urban dwellers do only if they have to. IT has been revealed that one in seven adults go a whole month without walking for at least 10 minutes continually. This figure rises to around one in four in some areas of the UK according to figures from the Department of Transport in association with Sport England, which studied the habits of people in England. For the over 65 age group, a quarter of men and nearly one
in three women fail to stretch their legs every four weeks. The study found urban dwellers are more likely to walk because they have to, while people in rural parts are more likely to walk for pleasure. Whilst there may not be too many walkers, some 54 per cent said they had carried out some form of moderate physical activity over the last month, compared to 46 per cent who did not.
BOTH 2014 and 2015 have been seismic years for me and my family. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in August of last year and have undergone operations, chemo and radiotherapy and my children’s father died in February 2015. I hope it is now time for the sadness to come to an end. We have battled on together supported by many wonderful friends and family. The children were recently reunited with their long lost brother and sister which was such a joyous moment. They need all the love and support they can get. I am now going to take a break from my blog as I will have very little to report over the coming
I have to make short term goals and try not to become overwhelmed as this could be a slippery path to depression.
The last year ’s events have left me somewhat depleted in so many ways. I have found despite my positive attitude that the accumulation of various factors has affected my ability to cope with difficult situa-
tions. I have to make short term goals and try not to be become overwhelmed as this could be a slippery path to depression which long term is not going to help me or my children. I think you have to allow yourself space for reflection and even tears but never dwell too much. We are not bionic just human. The human is capable of far more than we know but we have our frailties too. Give yourself a pat on the back when you deserve it and don’t be hard on yourself if you aren’t up to much. Rather like the tides your mood will wash in and out. Whatever your issues in life, you will have to confront each one. Admit or find out what is wrong, seek help or a way to make it better and just keep the momentum up. Never give in. You owe it to yourself to fight for your health and happiness. I wish all at Euro Weekly News and their readers a happy summer.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Eat well this summer for sun protection HYDRATE skin with cold water By Gemma Quinn
FOOD is a good way to prepare the skin for the sun, and to prevent premature aging, but which foods are best? Tomato, watermelon and carrots are all reported to boost our skin’s natural protective ingredients. Nuts also help increase the benefits of sunscreen by up to 25 per cent while fresh fruit, such as cherries, apricots, peaches or melons stimulate melanin, which increases and prolongs a healthy tan.
25%
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nuts help increase the benefits of sunscreen by this amount
Green tea as well as green leafy vegetables and fish are rich in Omega three which will help heal and protect from sun burn and help maintain the lipid layer of the skin. In the case of sun burn, hydrate the skin with cold water and chamomile tea and use aloe vera. For serious cases of sun burn, medical advice should be sought.
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Helping to keep you motivated IN this new column EWN personal trainer FitFoxy is going to give tips on how to stay in top condition… cise routine and a sensible diet plan, the healthy lifestyle that you were intending along with your dream life in the sun is in Looking Good, Staying Trim danger of becoming more of an expensive Health Insurance Plan. I find training small semi Hi I’m FitFoxy, private groups works extremely I’m a Personal Fitness well. My clients tend to work Trainer now living on the harder in a group, and dare I Costa Del Sol. say even enjoy the sessions. I trained private The mixed hourly classes I clients and group classgive them are designed to be es in Brighton UK for both effective and challenging. nine years, and previous Clients can sometimes have to that, I worked in a job related physical imbalances London Health Club or old infor six juries that years. have conI’ve pretty My Philosophy tributed to much been there, • Exercise - for one their lack of done that and got hour, three-four times activity for the workout per week, keep it challenging and varfear of more vest. ied. damage. I’m no spring What they chicken, I have • Monday to Friday do learn, entered that dreadSensible eating, inhowever, is ed latter side of the clude fresh meats, that the over 40’s club where fish and plenty of body is ineverything vegetables. credibly around the clever at remid section • Keep alcohol for your weekend treat. pairing itself weakens and in many casrapidly exes. Watching and correcting impands. I’m not one to balances or bad exercise form sugar the pill, so if you are along with helping them to not tackling what is fondly rekeep their motivation with their ferred to as ‘middle-age diet on track is what I do best. spread’ with a balanced exer-
FitFoxy
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Artichokes good for your diet SPAIN is the third biggest producer of the artichoke after Egypt and Italy, but they are believed to have been naturally native to the Mediterranean area. The part of the artichoke that is edible before it comes into flower is the heart, so once the budding process is passed it cannot be cultivated as food. There were many varieties found in Sicily during the Roman period where the leaves of the artichoke were eaten by the Greeks. They were also found in Naples in the 9th century and thereafter spread to Florence and cultivated there
too. It is said the Arabs had much to do with improving the blossom of the thistle, and from the 15th century onwards the artichoke became a wonderful but curious new addition. They were also grown in the garden of Henry VIII in 1530 after being introduced to England by the Dutch. The vegetable did not reach the United States until the 19th century, so the artichoke was slow to expand out of Europe. As far as health benefits of are concerned, they are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C and K and are a fantastic source of folate.
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FOOD
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Brewers going for high strength ‘premium’ beer ACROSS Europe beer drinkers aged 18 to 24 are likely to prefer strong ABV beers By Dilip Kuner WITH a trend to low strength and alcohol free beers increasing sales it may seem strange that 23 per cent of new beers launched have been high strength. But that is a fact revealed in new research by market analysts Mintel. Of the new beers launched globally in 2014 nearly a quarter had an ABV of 6.5 per cent or higher compared to 15 per cent of beers launched in 2012. Mintel’s consumer research evidences how much drinkers like the taste of strong beer in both the US and Europe. Over one in three (37 per cent) US beer drinkers have tried beer with higher alcohol content and would again, a further 29 per cent have not tried it, but were interested in doing so.
PREMIUM BEER: Drinkers in the US and Europe both like the strong taste.
FOOD & DRINK
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The many mineral waters of Spain POPULAR regions include the mountain ranges and natural springs of Alpujarras in Granada, Galicia and Valencia of the surrounding minerals and there it remains sealed in the underground reservoir which protects it from outer pollution. Although it is said that this water is ready for consumption, in order to be classed as ‘mineral water’ the water has to be actually bottled at source
By Wendy Ann Cowham IT is probably hard to believe that within Spain’s sun drenched lands and scorching hillsides that there would actually be a home for the natural flowing spring waters... but there is! Spain prides itself on many important water regions and mineral water. Popular regions include Alpujarras in Granada where there is an abundance of mountain ranges and natural springs, Galicia which provides one of the best selling mineral waters, and also Valencia which also provides mineral water. There are three main types of water you can find in a bottle, the first type is water that has been altered in some way for human consumption, that is by taking out any chlorine or any other elements that may be harmful or taste bad. This is classed as purified water. Mineral waters are so called because they contain minerals that they have accumulated via their travels through the rocky mountains. The mineral waters also vary in taste depending on the region of origin and the elements that exist there. The water travels down into underwater reservoirs where it gathers more
It is calculated that there are approximately 170 brands to choose from.
BOTTLED WATER: Choose either mineral, purified or spring.
Another favourite water that adds a little zest into a refreshing drink is spring water which comes from underground, either naturally or it can be in effect ‘mined’ and drawn up by machines. This also has to be bottled at source to earn the title of spring water, but it is usually fit to drink immediately unless there are particles present such as iron or sulphur. As there are so many companies supplying bottled water, it is calculated that there are approximately 170 brands to choose from.
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OPINION & COMMENT
Advertising feature
We have the power to turn you on! WELCOME to the future of television with T.VMed Mallorca IT is comforting to know that there are specialists working within the communications industry when it comes down to obtaining our favourite TV packages. It has been a bumpy ride through the decades of suffering endless changes of satellite technology and the frustration of bad TV reception. Jason Jenkins at T.VMed Mallorca is only too familiar with all of these changes, and through being in the know of such problems, he is ahead of the game by using the latest technology in internet TV connection. This new and trustworthy system is called I.P.T.V. which can be installed anywhere in the world as it is designed to be fully portable, so you can take it with you anywhere you should travel. Another advantage of I.P.T.V. is that it is completely functional without the need to install a dish, which is a big plus for many home owners. Due to changes later this year, the SKY satellite system will be lost as the signal will be moved from Europe and on-
I.P.T.V.: A new and trustworthy system without the need for a dish.
ly be available in the UK. With I.P.T.V. Dish-less system, viewers can rest assured that they will not miss out on any of their favourite channels This system transmits to your home using computer signals so that you can access a huge array of TV channels by the installation of a set-top box. This is the future, and the way forward to enjoying watching your favourite programmes without the added frustration of buffering or poor signal. At T.VMed Mallorca you can expect a complete and professional service with those who are experts in their field who can give you the best advice for your personal requirements. What is also comforting to know is that T.VMed Mallorca maintain all their own servers and equipment and as they do not sell their products en masse to subsidiary companies, the customer service that they give is not diluted. For more information on the IPTV portable system, please call 911 881 659 or 675 911 281
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Casa Holanda for up to the minute designs and exquisite furniture THE showroom in Son Bugadelles is a place of inspiration for home-makers By Wendy Ann Cowham ELLIS SEGERINK, the owner of Casa Holanda in Son Bugadelles, is attracting home makers from Mallorca and beyond into her unique, up to the minute showroom due to the exquisite furniture and accessories she has on offer. If you are in need of a little, or even a lot, of inspiration when it comes to styling your home or rental property then you will certainly be inspired by a large selection that will harmonise and complement your lifestyle. Ellis has recently extended her designs in order to offer her clients good quality furniture at competitive prices and she is proud to have built herself a longstanding and loyal clientele over the past 14
CASA HOLANDA: Here antique meets modern for a timeless look. years. A good reputation travels far, and her regular customers highly recommended her to newcomers. With 10 different collections to choose from, with mix and match fabric covered seating and mixed designs, it is
possible to create a unique look for your home. Sofas come in 90 different models and colours, there is a massive wood collection of finest teak, styles range from Rustica, Vintage, Finca right through to the Ibiza range.
W h i t e wood is also popular, indoor or outdoor, and there are some beautiful handpainted pieces that have been lovingly created. The designs show versatility in woodwork including slat creations, wickerwork, lattice
and also some wonderfully restored or distressed teak options. Here antique meets modern in such a compatible way that it is easy to choose furniture to make your home decor have a look that is timeless. Pieces available include sideboards, tables, sofas, chairs, TV cabinets, coffee tables, dressers and more. For the patio or garden there is more choice so you can continue the theme outdoors with
garden benches, loungers, mix and match seating, tables and accessories. Ellis also provides a delivery service. The showroom is open Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm and Saturdays closed. Tel 971 120 462 or visit www.casa-holanda.com. CASA HOLANDA SL C /MAR MEDITERRANEO 74 SON BUGADELLES 07180 SANTA PONSA
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GARDENS
Adeste Kitchens present home love Continually exceeding customer expectations
QUALITY: At sensible prices. ESTABLISHED for 14 yrs in Mallorca along with 28 years experience, Adeste Kitchens have been individually designing, manufacturing and installing fitted kitchens to suit all tastes and budgets. Right from the very beginning their aim was to supply quality products and services at sensible prices whether it’s a modest kitchen, a complete bespoke luxury kitchen or simply supplying to the trade or for public DIY. Adeste are confident that they have one of the largest range of kitchen units, doors, worktops and components available under one roof here in Mallorca. They are also manufacturers which enables them to offer the flexibility of non-standard sizes, plus they can also offer an installation service second to none, unlike other kitchen suppliers who are dictated by standard sizes, colours, products and use third party contractors to install your kitchen. Now due to popular demand from previous, existing and new customers, Steve and Joanne have expanded the business into home furnishings, but still offer quality products at sensible prices. Over the years customers have been asking for various products which were not available or at unrealistic prices. After conducting more in-depth consumer research and many months of sourcing items at the right price, Adeste can now offer quality
sofas, tables, chairs, mirrors, pictures, beautiful home accessories and gifts which can be seen alongside the kitchens in their showroom in Santa Ponsa. They can also offer sofas made to measure in many designs, colours and materials, plus offer free standing furniture made to measure for the more discerning customer. Since March 2015 the reaction from both past and new customers has been better than all expectations, they appreciate Adeste’s no nonsense approach, their honesty and most of all our prices. Over the next year Adeste will gradually change its name to just ‘HOMELOVE’ which will encompass all their products and services. Situated on the Poligono Son Bugadelles (opposite the Grand Buffett) in Santa Ponsa, Homelove is open from 8-30am to 630pm Monday to Friday and on Saturdays 10am -1pm. Steve and Joanne would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have helped with their expansion and a big thank you to all our previous and existing customers. Adeste Kitchens/Calle Son Bugadelles 9 & 9a Poligono Son Bugadelles, Santa Ponsa, Calvia Tel: 971 692 670
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EWN
Games in the summer garden Dick Handscombe
Gardening Corner By Spain’s best known expatriate gardening author living in Spain for 25 years.
A. SUMMER GAMES With long hot days ahead it is useful to have a collection of games that can be played in the garden by people of all ages. They are especially useful when family or friends are visiting and can be fun and in some cases educational. ACTIVE GAMES The following are all possible; darts, hoop-la, giant draughts or chess, skittles, barskittles, mini billiards, charades, bar football, treasure hunts, horse shoe throwing, and quoits. Pétanque/boule with metal or plastic balls can be played on any grass, sand or stone chipping surface. If you have the space a professional game of pétanque, tennis, badminton, basketball,
cricket, golf driving or putting. QUIETER GAMES The following allow pairs or small groups to pass the time; rummikub, draughts, chess,
various card games, scrabble, dominoes, and board games such as snakes and ladders © Dick Handscombe www.garden spain.com
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FEATURE
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DIY ASSISTANCE SERVICE: Can include small household tasks like plumbing. very useful added value that very few insurance companies offer. The BASIC protection guarantees essential home coverage at an affordable price. Optional additional covers are available. For example, the landlords can take advantage by taking out
defence cover to claim for imperfections caused by tenants and non-payment of rent. The PLUS option additionally covers: the costs of aesthetic restoration of the building and its contents; rebuilding or replanting a garden. PLUS also covers: 100% of the cost of glass
and ceramic household appliances; broken windows; Plexiglass/Perspex furniture breakages, and mugging. Refrigerated goods are also covered, as is garden furniture. And the PREMIUM protection goes that little bit further. As part of its significant improvement, it covers the costs that the PLUS policy offers but includes: cover for costs resulting from excess water consumption through broken pipes; solar panel glass; total building collapse; accidental spillage of hazardous liquid. Optional extra covers can include: personal accidents at home, increased cover limits for specified valuable objects; all risks outside the home on specified and non-specified goods, as well as in storerooms; all risks against accidental damage to the home, including property subsidence; public liability for dangerous breeds of dog. Your Liberty Seguros broker can advise you on all the options that are available to you. With LIBERTY SEGUROS you will be always in safe hands. With over 150,000 international clients, LIBERTY SEGUROS is the leading expatriate insurance provider in Spain. www.libertyexpatriates.es Call 902 255 258 for more information.
Slaughter on the sand in Tunisia: Thatcher would have gone ballistic! Nora Johnson
Breaking Views Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist. To comment on any of the issues raised in her column, go to www.euroweeklynews.com/3.0.15/nora-johnson
WITNESSES in Tunisia said the lone ISIS killer, Seifeddine Rezgui, laughed as he mowed down holidaymakers fleeing across the sand, leaving blood-soaked bodies next to upturned loungers. “He was choosing who to shoot. Some people, he was saying to them ‘you go away.’ He was choosing tourists, British...” According to Jonathan Hill, professor of defence studies at London University, the recent attacks resulting in the deaths of 30 British tourists have damaged Tunisia’s image as a stable, democratic nation, their aim being to undermine fatally tourism and the structures which have made the country probably the only one of the Arab Spring with a fledgling democracy following its Jasmine Revolution in 2011: “The terrorists are attacking Tunisia’s reputation. Not just as a safe and welcoming destination for
MARGARET THATCHER: Would have approved proactive action. western holidaymakers, but as the one real success story to emerge out of the Arab Spring.” Europe’s security services are fighting a defensive war against Islamic terrorism, trying to thwart terrorist plots and arrest potential terrorists in cells within mosques, schools and so on. A solution, as in the case of the IRA, normally requires a negotiated agreement but that, clearly,
will be out of the question with ISIS. Furthermore, the increasing number of migrants fleeing across the Mediterranean and uncertainty as to whether any of them constitute a potential threat to European citizens. Time is slipping by, and events, including the ongoing turbulence in the Middle East, indicate that the danger for Europe is intensifying, given the in-
crease in radicalised lone killers like Rezgui. Ultimately, this defensive policy must surely change before opposition to western values both within and surrounding Europe becomes so entrenched that recovery may be impossible. Not so long ago, such ideas would have been scarcely credible, but much has gone wrong. Given the way digital technology has transformed dissemination of information and culture, it isn’t surprising terrorists acquire training and ideology in a very short time and, like Rezgui, without the need to leave the country. The consensus the attacks in Tunisia - together with the ones in Kuwait and France - were coordinated suggests Europe is facing a far more complex threat. One that requires considerably more proactive, SAS-style, longer-term counterterrorism remedies and tactics - that Thatcher would have approved of - than those employed hitherto. Nora Johnson’s thrillers ‘Landscape of Lies,’ ‘Retribution,’ ‘Soul Stealer,’ ‘The De Clerambault Code’ (www.nora-johnson.com) available from Amazon in paperback/eBook (€0.89; £0.79) and iBookstore. Profits to Cudeca.
PROPERTY www.euroweeklynews.com
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V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E W W W. E U R O W E E K LY N E W S . C O M .
Advertising feature
CR&S Baleares SL THE Santa Ponsa based estate agent has a wealth of experience
Spain’s top 2 area the two regions beat the SPAIN’s property market is rest in, as they are also the diverse as revealed by the places property sells the Tinsa IMIE index report for quickest. While the national the second half of this year. average time While prices needed to sell continue to fall a home was in almost every reported to be r e g i o n , 10.6 months, Cataluña and the national average amount Madrid and Madrid were of months needed Barcelona the only two to sell a home in Spain were found where they the be the were found to places property was snapped be higher now than during up the fastest, in 6.4 and 6.6 the first half of 2015. months respectively. Yet price isn’t the only
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CR&S BALEARES SL have been established for more than 28 years.
BREATHTAKING: Top locations and top properties are on offer. CR&S Baleares SL have been established now for over 28 years and continue to lead the way in the Spanish property market. Mark Pemberton who runs the company is an expert in all aspects of property sales, rentals and conveyancing. They have been trading from their present offices in Santa Ponsa for 18 years. They are also a member of the professional governing body ‘Expertos Inmobiliarios’ which has been one of the reasons they have gained the seal of approval and respect from their clients past and present. CR&S Baleares SL have an extensive knowledge of the Balearic Islands and save their clients time and money by offering invaluable advice when purchasing or selling a property. They are fully registered which gives all their customers immediate security and most of all peace of mind.
Mark finds it of the upmost importance to suit the client to the property whether it is short or long term rental or buying your home from home or new permanent residence in the sun. Because the real estate business is second nature to them, when it comes to the tedious legalities, their clients can expect to be guided every step of the way with total transparency. There are many opportunities to take advantage of with CR&S Baleares SL, one of which is a co-ownership plan which has proved popular with many of their clients. There are also some breathtaking properties available for rental or sale and all of which Mark has personally viewed. He knows all that is needed to be known in relation to both the purchase and annual costs. With a loyal and valued clientele and a sparkling reputation, they have gone from strength to strength and put
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call +34 609 630 022 or +34 971 693 967 or email: info@ crsbaleares.com
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PROPERTY
Enjoy a safe home and business this summer TODAY we have many options available to us to protect our homes and businesses John Graham The property expert
IT’S hard to believe but the first electro-magnetic alarm system in the world was already patented on June 21, 1853. Up until then, home-owners had mainly relied on the chatter of their geese or guard-dogs to catch intruders on their property. Today, we have many high-tech and lowtech options available to us to protect our homes and businesses, so this week I want to talk about having a safe home and business this summer, using both technology and common sense. Unfortunately, home robberies are on the increase and protecting your home and family is one of the most important things you can do. Effective security requires a multi-level approach, good home security starts with strategy. Avoid the telltale signs that you are away. Leave some lights on. Place your second car in the driveway. Be careful about telling your holiday plans to acquaintances and strangers. Don’t
ALARM SYSTEM: Important for protecting your home and family. announce your travel schedule on your answering machine and never talk about your travel dates on social network sites. An alarm system is important for protecting your home and family, but nothing provides comfort and security like 24-hour monitoring. Alarms offer worry-free, around-the-clock monitoring for residential security as well as early warning against fires. Insurance compa-
nies recognise it and most offer discounts on your home and business insurance. It’s commonplace to find video surveillance in commercial and industrial environments and now more and more home-owners are using video cameras and recording systems to protect their homes and families. Today’s video surveillance technology incorporates features that are ideal for securing pri-
vate property. IP cameras allow you to monitor your home from a remote location. Motion detection cameras can be programmed to begin recording when they sense movement or even send you an email or SMS message so you can login remotely and assess the situation. Video cameras placed at entranceways ensure personal safety by allowing you to see the person at your door before allowing them entry. Commercial business alarms specialise in alarm systems for your retail, manufacturing or office environments with state-of-the-art motion detectors, glass breakage detectors, access control systems and wireless devices. Surveillance systems help you monitor both outdoor traffic and activities that occur under your roof. Whether you need to watch your parking area, retail space, entrance or warehouse, there are a complete range of cameras, digital video recorders (DVRs) and CCTV systems to protect your business, 24/7. Modern fire alarms protection and monitoring systems will safeguard your property, and most importantly, your customers and staff. John Graham FGIS / 020 32 900 983 / +34 657 337 477 / gk.ipad@me.com
PROPERTY
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Building a city on top of a city, a way of tackling overcrowding flickr by Maciek Lulko
ONCE ready, units can be shipped in and placed on top of a building in as little as one day By Eleanor Hawkins WITH population growth causing problems for big cities all over the world, a company has come up with a new way to tackle the overcrowding and extend Barcelona in a different way: upwards. Madrid-based developer La Casa por el Tejado (LCT) - House on the Roof - has come up with a plan which is proving increasingly popular in Barcelona’s bustling Eixample district, which basically buys up available air space above existing buildings and drops prefabricated penthouse flats on top. LCT realised that in the past, cities tended to extend
UPWARDS NOT OUTWARDS: The Barcelona district of Eixample has caught on to the idea of using air space. by sprawling outwards rather than upwards, meaning in
many cases buildings are perfectly capable (and per-
mitted) to add another floor or two, which will allow
more homes to be built without the need to use up unde-
veloped land and create infrastructures to support them. The first step is to buy the air space, then buildings are primed by installing lifts, redoing facades and other work needed to adapt them to the new addition while also improving surroundings for existing residents. Meanwhile, the flats themselves are built at an off-site factory with plumbing, electrical installations and flooring built into the units. Once ready, units can be shipped in and placed on top of the building in as little as one day, then hey presto! a smashing new penthouse with stunning views and plenty of light ready to be used.
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Dogs that bark all the time are definitely a problem! IF an owner will not listen to your appeals, you can contact the Guardia Civil’s Seprona unit, who will take action your neighbour is saying that the dog is barking a lot then the dog really is barking excessively. Do you live next door to a barking dog? Or are you that neighbour from hell with the dog that barks all day and night? Many barking and destructive dogs are given the label Separation Anxiety. Once a vet hears of this type of behaviour he might prescribe the latest drug Clomicalm, manufactured by Norvartis. However, this drug should only be used in combination with behavioural therapy techniques. If you have a neighbour who will not listen to your appeals, then contact the Guardia Civil and ask for Seprona. They will definitely take action, which could result in big fines for the guilty owners.
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
I AM often surprised at the number of owners who have barking and destructive dogs. How do they manage to put up with all that noise for so long? Perhaps after a while, we manage to turn a deaf ear to the racket the dog is making. In many instances, nothing is done about the dog barking until a neighbour complains. Most neighbours will tolerate a great deal before actually confronting you about the problem, so you can usually be sure that if
NUISANCE: Owners who let their dogs bark incessantly face fines.
You can telephone 900 101 062 or email them at seprona@guardiacivil.org.
Advice on bird-care in the hot weather
KEEP THEM COOL: Birds can suffer from heat stress. TROPICAL birds’ natural habitat may be a warm, humid climate but they still need attention in the summer. Just as it is dangerous for pets to be left in a hot car, closed, sunny rooms can cause problems for pets, especially birds. You can use air conditioning and fans to make it cooler, as long as birds are not facing the air
flow directly. Another option is to move them to the basement, but you will need a light timer to make sure they maintain their natural light schedule. Birds lose less heat when the temperature is warmer and humid air slows the process down too. In order to avoid heat stress, lower the temperature via air condition-
ing or gently spraying the bird with water. Also, move the cage elsewhere. If your birds opens its mouth and pumps its throat or sits on the bottom of the cage, it may be a sign that it is already suffering heat stress. It is essential that you take immediate action, following the steps above. If in doubt, seek advice from a vet.
Top 8 dog beaches SPAIN has around 50 dogfriendly beaches, although the Andalucian Government has imposed a summer ban on those on the Costa del Sol. It started on June 1 and runs to September 30. However, there are some other wonderful sandy spots to exercise your dog: 1. Puerto de Santa Maria, Cadiz, Andalucia. 2. Play de Riumar, Tarragona, Catalonia. 3. Play de L’Ahuir, Gandia, Valencia. 4. Cala Prudent, Palma, Mallorca. 5. Cala de Punta del Riu Sec, El Campello, Alicante. 6. Play de Berria, Santoña, Cantabria. 7. Playa de la Platera, Girona, Catalonia. 8. Playa de los Cuervitos, Gran Canaria, Canaries.
OPINION & COMMENT
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LEGALLY SPEAKING
Get insurance for your electric bike AS part of our series, we answer some common driving questions, kindly provided by members of the Guardia Civil based in Torrevieja, Costa Blanca, who set up the N332 website and Facebook page to help break down barriers.
ELECTRIC BIKES: Insurance will offer you peace of mind. MANY people ask about insurance for electrical bikes. The team at N332.es say insurance is not compulsory and is optional, but it is recommended for a number of reasons: Many people assume that their bike is covered on their home contents insurance policy. Some home insurers do cover it as standard but the bike will often only be insured if it’s inside the property or secured in an outbuilding; if it is stolen from your garden the insurer will not pay out. You would also be unable to claim on your standards contents policy if the theft took place outside a shop for example. As a result, a number of firms are now offering specialist bicycle insurance to cater for the growing number of cycle enthusiasts
and most will cover against theft whether from your home or elsewhere. Bicycle insurance does not only cover theft, but should also pay out for accidental damage or vandalism and look for a policy to cover third party liability cover in case you injure another person or damage their car or bike. With more cyclists on Spain’s roads these days, accidents are more common so insurance offers you peace of mind. Cycle breakdown cover is also available which works in much the same way as car breakdown cover and is a popular add on. So whether you are a cycle enthusiast or looking at buying an electric bike for ease of getting around, look at finding the right insurance policy to cover you and your bike.
For more news and articles visit www.n332.es or search N332 on Facebook
Do Brits lose their rights in Spain? When I was about to retire, my NHS Doctor told me that, if I wanted to live long enough to collect my pension, I should leave the UK for a warmer climate. I wrote to the Spanish Embassy in London to ask if my family would lose any rights. If you need to live in a better climate, you are ahead right there. Secondly, Spain does not ‘target’ Brits. The horrible situation of property demolitions is the worst effect of the property boom-andbust combined with a blind bureaucracy, but it hit unwary Spanish buyers as well as foreigners, and is at last being cor-
They replied that we would not. However, seeing that the Spanish Government ‘target’ Brits for illegal demands for new taxes and property demolitions, this seems untrue.
David Searl You and the Law in Spain
The law is directed at Spaniards themselves with hidden assets abroad.
T.D. (Costa del Sol) rected with new laws. By ‘tax demands,’ you probably refer to Form 720, on which Spanish tax residents declare assets abroad worth over €50,000. This law is directed at Spaniards themselves with hidden assets abroad. So you are taxed at Spanish rates, similar to UK rates, and you get your healthcare from the Spanish system.
Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana & Associates in Fuengirola at Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.
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Speed trap sites revealed THE location of 1,200 mobile speed gun locations on Spain’s roads were revealed by DGT last Thursday, July 2. Maria Segui, head of DGT operations, points out these sites will be on problem spots where speed limits are not being adhered to. Spanish authorities published 350 locations in early May before the weekend holiday and this new information comes out just before summer traffic hits.
Road deaths continue to fall DESPITE appearing to rise again in 2014, the number of road deaths in Spain are once again showing a decrease. The first quarter of 2015 saw the number of deaths due to road accidents drop to 496 - 11 less than the same period last year. This figure represents a decrease of 2 per cent overall between January and June.
Clarkson Quote of theWeek
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“No, no, no. There's no such thing as cheap and cheerful. It's cheap and nasty & expensive and cheerful.” Some might say...
New Opel Adam Rocks S is both rugged and racy AT €19,990 this vehicle will appeal to sporty and adventurous types By Steve Walsh IT may be pocket size but the new Opel Adam Rocks S is more rugged than dainty. Despite measuring a slim 3.75 metres long, its racing power is not to be sniffed at, with a powerful 1.4-litre turbo engine with 110kW/150 hp. Adventurous and smart with its IntelliLink infotainment technology with personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, it also features an
extensive choice of trim typical of the ADAM series. On release at an attractive 19,990 euros, it will appeal to sporty, adventurous types as it combines the ADAM’s rugged features, optional Swing top roof as well as the underride protection and off-road features, with the Adam Rock S roof spoiler, performance steering and impressive horsepower in one package.
ADAM ROCKS S: More rugged than dainty.
CREDIT: COPYRIGHT GM MOTORS
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420 Job seekers flock to coaching
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Advertising feature
Rent a Classic Car Mallorca GOAL is to make customers dreams a reality, to thrill and wow with style By Staff Reporter
OPEL EVENT: Designed to help unemployed youth. OPEL’S first Coaching Day in Zaragoza was a success, attracting 420 job seekers to the Opel plant in Figueruelas. The event was designed to help unemployed youth connect with companies looking for new talent. The Europewide initiative was supported by INAEM (Aragon Employment Institute) and featured 22 national and international companies as well as being attended by over 400 young people. Conferences and workshops were held on occupational counselling, employment assessment, job interviews and CV preparation. The event also enabled employers and job seekers to meet personally to discuss employment opportunities.
THE growing interest in the Classic Car scene in Spain and especially Mallorca, has led Roger Taylor and Jane Hatton to create their dream company… Rent a Classic Car Mallorca SL. Roger told us “I’d been thinking about the venture for about five years. I have a colleague that has set up a similar business on the French Riviera, where I have watched his business double in size year on year. “I discussed Mallorca as a destination with him, and with its compact nature and dreamy roads, coupled with over six million visitors a year it was an obvious target, leading to us firmly agreeing on its potential.”
Roger went on to say, “It was obvious to see the Classic Car scene was growing in Spain, we saw a gap in the market for a medium to high end Classic Car Rental Company, which led us to carry out our own research, the results from which gave us the confidence to invest in our passion.”
CLASSIC CARS: Nine to choose from. Jane, originally from Essex, had been in banking for 30 years, whilst Roger spent the last 25 years building a global IT Maintenance company in Birmingham. They currently have nine vehicles: An S1 E Type Roadster, Austin Healey 3000, 66 S3 Lotus Elan, 66
Ford Mustang, Porsche Speedster, Ferrari 308 GT4, Triumph TR4, a Classic Fiat 500 and a MK2 Escort rally car, (which is limited to photographic or film work only). The collection is growing, but choice is always gauged on customer desire. The company has five main areas of business: Individual/Enthusiast rental and Guided Tours/Rallies, Weddings, Photography Services, Media Film, and TV, as well as corporate entertainment, where groups of clients get to sample a selection of vehicles in one day. Our goal is to make our customers dreams a reality, we want to thrill and wow our customers with style and panache.
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BOATS
Advertising feature
Join Rib Club Global NEW concept in cruising without the headache of cost and maintenance
RIBS: Vary in size and some have cabins and toilets. THOSE who have owned their own boat are well aware not only of the depreciation of their pride and joy once it hits the waters, but also the costly mooring fees, insurance, storage and general upkeep which becomes a burden rather than a pleasure. RIB can accommodate many boat lovers by offering a chartering service to their members so that they can still captain a vessel of their choice.
RIB Club Global is a new concept in cruising without the headache of cost and maintenance that inevitably comes with the ownership of any type of boat. James Patterson who is the Managing Director of the company once said that the cheapest part of owning a boat is the day that you purchase it, and so many sailors will totally agree. First operating in Menorca back in 2009, such was the success of RIB
Club that they continued to grow the business in Mallorca where demand was so high they had to order three new boats to bring the fleets up to a total of 10. RIBS vary in size starting from a six metre which accommodates up to eight comfortably. Some RIBS even boast cabins and toilets. Memberships last a full calendar year with some of the benefits being that you can cancel one day up to the day of the booking with no penalties.
Also, now thanks to the simple points system any unused days roll over into the next year of membership. RIB Club Global has attracted a following and the company has grown so rapidly that they now have even more ports of call. The company is now boasting five more loca-
tions where you can hire from, Palma, Portals, Andrax, Pollensa and Cala D’or. What a perfect way to enjoy Mallorca’s beautiful coastlines at hassle free and affordable prices. Prices start at €1,799 which gives members up to six days throughout the year, a gold membership costs €2,499 which gives up to nine days boating and their platinum membership is only €3,999 per year giving up to 18 days boating, a fraction of the cost compared to boat ownership. For membership, club benefits and charter information visit the website at www.ribclubglobal.com or call 608 403 889.
BOATS
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CANOEING MARATHON: Held in Slovenia.
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS: Brought together some excellent crews and a large number of boats.
Palma’s Airlan Aermec finishes in eighth place YACHT is owned by Mallorcan Joan Cabrer By Carol Irving AIRLAN Aermec of the Royal Nautical Club of Palma finished in eighth place in the World Championships in Barcelona. The yacht, owned by Mallorcan Joan Cabrer, took part in the final
regatta of the championship. Led by Teo Matheu, the ship, buffeted by south-easterly winds, also finished eighth in the ORC C class. Giuseppe Giuffre’s Italian Low Noise II took first place with second place going to the Dane Michael Mollman
with Hansen, and third place awarded to the Spanish Jose Luis Maldonado’s Fyord. Nevertheless, Aermec owner Cabrer was more than pleased with the results: “The world championship has brought together some excellent crews and a large
number of boats, making the event a lot more complicated.” Airlan Aermec’s next date in the sailing calendar will be in Mapfre’s King’s Cup which will take place on August 3-8 in the Royal Nautical Club of Palma.
Belen Arnao takes the bronze medal MALLORCA’S Belen Arnao has taken the bronze medal in the European canoeing marathon in Slovenia. The canoeist from the Royal Nautical Club of Palma - OS La Caixa is now assured a place in the World Championships due to take place in Hungary in September this year.
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Why is Golf Society thriving in Spain? LONG gone are the days when you had to be interviewed to be a member of a golf club and then wait for elderly members to move on
Joy for Lewis, for Andy too? Tony Matthews 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
GOLF SOCIETY: Golf is the most sociable of all sports.
Getting in the swing with Campbell Lamont By Tony Myles MANY years ago I was first introduced to this great sport by a colleague who really only wanted to off-load his old blade style clubs “They are ideal for a beginner!” he lied. At that time the only way that you could actually participate in the sport, if you were a newcomer to the game, was to add your name to a long waiting list at a local golf club and hope that a few elderly members ‘moved on.’ Alternatively you could join a golf society, whereby you could probably count on one game per month depending on how active your Society Secretary was. These days most golf
clubs are desperate for members, so the prospect of being interviewed and then ‘played-in’ has disappeared. But the opposite is true for the Golf Society as I can confirm it is alive and kicking vibrantly in Spain. Why? Is it cost? The world is emerging from a deep recession and during this period Campbell Lamont argued with countless golf clubs about their pricing policy and, despite initial resistance, his arguments won them round, until today there are no golf courses in North or South Costa Blanca that do not offer him significant discounts on their green fees. So for many societies who use CL Golf, it is now a more reasonable and affordable proposition to play a variety of courses. Convenience? Playing with a Society is always optional and the Society member can pick and choose each event with no financial impediment. By contrast once
the Club’s annual subscription is paid then most club members will endeavour to play as frequently as possible. Socialising? Golf is the most sociable of all sports as you are always endeavouring to beat the course. For many society members the social aspects of their sport are as important as the sport itself. Variety? This is probably the major difference between the club golfer and the society member. The option of playing various courses offers a real benefit to those who enjoy some variety in their game . Or, are there other more diverse reasons? What is your opinion? I am always delighted to hear your views. However there are hundreds of Golf Societies across Spain and I would like to hear from you on any subject whatsoever. Please email me at info@clgolf.es. Many thanks.
SPORTS
FORMULA 1 - Last Sunday, a record Silverstone crowd of 140,000 saw Lewis Hamilton win the 65th British Grand Prix, 10 seconds ahead of his Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg with Sebastian Vettel third. This was Hamilton’s third F1 victory on home soil, following in the footsteps of Jim Clark and Alain Prost (5 wins each), Nigel Mansell (4), Jack Brabham (3), Niki Lauda (3) and Michael Schumacher (3). It was all down to a superb driving performance in wet and dry conditions and his own decision to change tyres with laps fast running out. Hamilton now leads the championship by 17 points. The next race is in Budapest, Hungary on July 26. TENNIS Wimbledon fortnight concludes this weekend... and at the time of writing, Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer were heading for the men’s semi-finals, while Serena Williams (who almost succumbed to Britain’s
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Heather Watson) and Maria Sharapova were in sight of the women’s last four. However, Rafael Nadal was eliminated for the fourth year running by a player ranked 100+ in the world - beaten this time by Rastafarian Dustin Brown, while GB’s James Ward reached the third round of a Grand Slam tournament for the very first time. And following on from Wimbledon, Britain play France in the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup at Queen’s Club, London (July 17 19). FOOTBALL - Penalties decided last Saturday’s two major football matches. Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez’s last spot-kick in the shoot-out won the Copa America for hosts Chile v Argentina. Fara Williams scored from 12 yards in extratime to give England’s women a 1-0 victory over Germany in the 3rd/4th play-off World Cup game in Canada. The USA, with four goals in the first 16 minutes, whipped Japan 5-2 in the final 24 hours later. Reece Oxford (aged 16) became West Ham’s youngest-ever player when he appeared in last week’s 3-0 Europa League qualifying round win over Lusitans. He broke Billy Williams’ 93 year-old record. Fiji have set a new record last week by beating Micro-Mesia 38-0 in the Pacific Games. The previous biggest win was 31-0 by Australia over America Samoa in 2001. And ex-Real Madrid star Roberto Carlos is the new manager of Delhi Dynamos in the IPL. CRICKET - Yesterday, the first 2015 Ashes Test between England and Australia started in Cardiff. New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum set records galore on his home debut for Birmingham Bears against Derbyshire in the T20 Blast at Edgbaston. The rampaging Kiwi amassed the highest-ever score in the competition - 158 off just 64 balls. He smashed 11 sixes and 13 fours and had a strike-rate of 246.87. Top-of-the-table Bears won by 60 runs (242 against 182). Meanwhile, the former England and Derbyshire wicket-keeper Bob Taylor (73) is in hospital afRAFAEL NADAL: ter suffering a heart attack. Out again for the GOLF - Drivers, chipfourth year pers, putters and caddies are running. being used all over the world right now (including New Zealand and France) ahead of the 144th Open Championship at St Andrew’s which starts a week today.
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9 - 15 July 2015 Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez’s last spot-kick in the shoot-out won the Copa America for hosts Chile v Argentina.
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El Toro RC celebrates 25 years PLAYERS past and present helped El Toro to celebrate with a beach rugby tournament PLAYERS past and present celebrated El Toro RC being in existence for 25 years with a Beach Rugby tournament for the youngsters followed by a fiesta in El Toro on Saturday night. El Toro RC is the oldest club in the Balearics and has grown from humble beginnings with just a senior team playing and struggling to find opponents to what it is today; a club with veterans, seniors, girls and all categories down to the youngest player in the ‘Escoleta.’ Their first coach was the late Michel Rodier who was instrumental in keeping players motivated and providing a solid team. The pitch had to be lit by their own car headlights, posts were made by an iron-working friend and rocks had to be cleared off the ground before training! Opponents were teams from the mainland until the 1994 - 1995 season when the Falcons of Alaró came into existence. The Calvià Council allowed training to take place in the centre of the running track when Son Ferrer football pitch closed their doors to rugby and it was here that a few youngsters first joined the club. The club continued to grow and began to attract more youngsters for the junior categories. From
Photo by El Toro RC
By Lynda Demangeat and Sean Judkins
season the club concentrated on the local league and the veteran’s team ‘Emeritus Taurus’ was formed which joins some of the original players with many fathers who are keen to see what their children enjoy so much. A team was formed for the girls in the same season and who can now can participate in their own Balearics league.
Summer camp
25 YEARS: The youngsters kicking up the sand on the beach. 2007 to 2012 the El Toro RC Senior team took part in the league on the mainland with varied success and were champions several years running in the Baleares league.
2010 was a memorable year for the club as they were presented with their own pitch in Son Caliu and also formed the ‘Escoleta’ for the youngest players. During the following
The sun shone down strongly on the first Agora Portals Summer Rugby Camp, held at the school. Fifty one boys aged between eight and 16 participated in the camp, delivered in English by three coaches from the Leicester Tigers set up as well as Agora’s own coach. They welcomed 2011 Argentina World Cup player Tomas Vallejos, who ran a special clinic on the lineout. One of the many positives from the camp was the number of boys who have never played rugby before who took part. Many commented that they would be “signing up to play next year,” which can only be a positive for the local clubs. The main clubs represented at the camp were RC Ponent and Agora Portals, with El Toro also having representation in the form of a player as well as Edu from the Under 18s.