Euro Weekly News - Costa de Almeria 12 – 18 October 2017 Issue 1684 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

COSTA DE ALMERÍA

12 - 18 October 2017

Captain in court THE skipper of an illegal immigrant boat is facing six years in prison. Three people drowned when the boat capsized 16 nautical miles south of Carboneras. Alongside the skipper another 14 people were rescued from the shipwreck earlier this year after it was consumed by waves in the choppy winter waters. Almeria’s criminal court has heard that the three immigrants who drowned jumped from the boat in terror as it flooded. None of the passengers had life jackets.

Fake facts crackdown POLICE are cracking down on false reports following a spate of expensive, timewasting ‘thefts.’ In all of the cases, supposed victims claimed to have been mugged or burgled but when probed revealed they had invented the crime to claim insurance money. In one example a worker who managed to lose a beer shipment worth €1,600 told police that six armed men stole it from him, but later confessed to making it up to keep his job.

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Monster bust Entire farm devoted to drugs By Matthew Elliott More than 41,000 plants were seized in the biggest marihuana bust in Almeria’s history. Guardia Civil officers raided an enormous farm dedicated entirely to production of the drug. Wi t h a t o t a l h a u l o f 41,500 adult plants, it was the second-biggest marihuana crop ever found in Spain. Police have so far arrested just one suspect, a 52y e a r- o l d N i j a r m a n , w h o was minding the crop. The farm, in the Cortijo de Norias area, spanned a vast 61,500 square metres. Incredible pictures show Guardia Civil officers surrounded by well-managed plants in one of the most sophisticated and heavilyfinanced operations ever seen.

Photo credit Guardia Civil

ISSUE NO. 1684

MASSIVE: Biggest ever weed bust in Almeria history. The tens of thousands of plants were divided between multiple greenhouses. Police searched several warehouses on the property, finding machinery used to dry and process the plants into a sellable product. It is still unknown who

masterminded the operation or how long it has been effective for. The raid was conducted over the weekend. Guardia Civil officers across Almeria Province now routinely conduct checks of rural properties searching for

Pepper spray villain GUARDIA CIVIL caught a mugger who used pepper spray to blind his victim before stealing their mobile phone. The Vicar resident, a male aged 22, has been charged with armed robbery. It took almost one month for police to catch their man. They were alerted to the mugging by the victim, another Vicar resident, in September.

He told officers how the man snuck up behind him in the street, sprayed his eyes with the chemical agent, and then lifted his phone from his pocket. The pepper spray caused substantial eye injuries to the victim, who had to be treated at a nearby medical centre. After a lengthy investigation, police were able to identify the suspect. He has a long record of assaults and robberies.

drug plantations. They came across a strong smell from the farm and began a surveillance operation. Using state-ofthe-art cameras they were able to get an idea of the sheer size of the marihuana farm. Backup was dispatched for the raid, which came after the suspect closed the gates for the night. Evidence, including ventilation, farm machinery, smell inhibitors, and vegetable crates used to transfer the drugs, were confiscated.

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Mystery body found A BODY was found floating in Almeria port late on Sunday evening. Police are still trying to identify the corpse and the precise cause of death.

New flight BRITISH AIRWAYS has announced a new direct line from Heathrow to Almeria that will start on March 27 with two weekly flights. Prices start at €77 for a round trip with only carry on luggage.

Home shock AN estimated 60 per cent of Almeria’s housing stock is not accessible to people with disabilities and would actually fail the province’s new mobility regulation, a shock survey found.

By Kat Ashton CATALAN President Carles Puigdemont fudged his independence declaration from Spain when he put a halt on the announcement to leave room for ‘dialogue’ with Spain. In a speech addressed to the Catalan parliament in Barcelona on Tuesday, Puigdemont vowed to follow through with the wishes of his people to make Cataluña an independent state but then immediately turned back on himself, stating he wanted to resolve the conflict in “a calm and agreed manner.” He also thanked everyone who made the referendum possible and criticised police for their violent behaviour against Catalan citizens on the polling day itself. Puigdemont’s declaration addressed the October 1 referendum in which Catalan officials claimed that almost 90 per cent of the turnout voted for independence. The vote had already been ruled illegal by Spain’s Constitutional Court and was boycotted by many pro-remain voters. Ahead of Puigdemont’s speech, the mayor of Barcelona, Ada Colau, pleaded with the

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Time to talk Catalan leader suspends vote action Catalan leader not to declare independence and also urged Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy not to take direct control of the region from Madrid. It has also been reported that Donald Tusk, the president of the European Council, appealed to Puigdemont in the 13th hour to step back from an immediate Photo by John Nichols/Twitter

A REGION DIVIDED: Carles Puigdemont (inset) has split opinion between separatists (above) and unionists (right). independence declaration and begin talks with the Spanish government. Police in the Catalan capital also put in place various security measures across Barcelona ahead of Puigdemont’s speech to the Catalan parliament; claiming the measures were necessary

for “safety reasons” following recent protests. Rajoy has continued to declare that any independence declaration made by Catalan secessionists “will lead to nothing” and threatened to take away the region’s autonomy if it came to that point.

Several businesses have already announced the relocation of their headquarters to other parts of Spain following the referendum, including telecoms group Cellnex and property company Inmobiliaria Colonial. Major Spanish banks Sabadell and Caixabank have also announced plans to move offices to protect the financial interests of their customers. In the past week, French and German officials have also stated that they will not support a split from Spain and the European Union has made it clear that the region would no longer be a part of the EU should it declare independence. It now remains to be seen whether the Catalans will be able to successfully negotiate with Madrid. Keep up-to-date with the latest developments on www.euroweeklynews.com.

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YOUR OPINION

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WEEKLY LEISURE INCLUDING PUZZLES,STARS AND MADDOCK’S VIEW ON LIFE

SPAIN, UK, EUROPE AND GLOBAL SPORTS SCENE

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LA GRANADELLA

The harvest has officially started with October a busy time of year for those in Spain’s olive industry, Kat Ashton reports.

OILY TOIL: Spain consumes over 40 per cent of the olives they grow and ship the rest.

A DOCTOR who accidently tore two tendons on a patient’s left wrist during routine surgery has been ordered to pay €36,000 in compensation to the woman. The incident at Torrecardenas hospital was deemed negligent enough to be a criminal matter, leaving the patient with permanent injury.

Migrant hunt A HUNT is underway for six illegal immigrants who escaped the coastguard and made their way across Carboneras on foot. A boat carrying dozens of migrants was intercepted near the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park over the weekend. At least 35 were rescued from the sea.

Finance 27

Leapy Lee 33

POLICE confirmed that a rumour of a potential terrorist attack in Almeria that spread like wildfire on WhatsApp is fake. For days, thousands of people received texts claiming that Arabs dressed as Guardia Civil had hijacked a truck at gunpoint in the city.

Doctor danger

News 1 - 24

Terror trick

BEATLES fans from across Spain visited Almeria for Beatles Weekend. The event celebrated the time spent by John Lennon in the province, when he penned Strawberry Fields Forever in the city’s House of Cinema. Local children also heard how he was the man who wrote school favourite Yellow Submarine.

DE GEA

PLUS THE REGULARS

SPANISH FACTS OF LIFE...32

SPANISH flags should be hung from balconies and flown from windows to support Spanish unity, said Almeria mayor Ramon Fernandez-Pacheco. The country celebrates its national day today and the mayor has called for a ‘massive gesture’ across Almeria to show the province’s desire for Cataluña to remain part of Spain.

Beatle mania

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THE BEST IN SPORT

TIME OUT

Readers’ views on eclectic topics in print and online.

Flag fever

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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SPAIN grows almost 300 varieties of olives and each tree produces between 15-20 kilos in its lifetime. The most common national olive is the Manzanilla, favoured by farmers as it’s one of the easiest to pluck from the tree, and often sold stuffed with garlic or pimiento paste. Other popular types include the Gordal, a large, robust olive ideal for stuffing, the Hojiblanca, with a thicker skin producing a sharper bite, and the Cacereña; a fruity, milder variety ideal for anyone trying olives for the first time. Green and black olives actually grow on the same tree they naturally turn darker as they ripen - although some farmers cure their olives in brine to turn them black faster. Andalucia is the world’s largest olive-growing region and produces more than 900,000 tonnes annually. It is also one of the few places where the fruit is still picked by hand so the olives can be sold to be eaten whole. This labour is time-consuming and an expensive dilemma but farmers have yet to come up with a faster method that doesn’t damage their crop. Most other regions grow olives only for oil production so don’t mind if they come off the tree a bit bruised. Farm workers either rake bruised olives, and those they have shaken from trees with a stick, into baskets. Olive trees can live for more than a 1,000 years and at

Catwalk queen SUPERMODEL Cindy Crawford represented the Almanzora Valley at a glitzy event in Manhattan. She is the new North American

More to olives than oil! times Americans and Arabs have been reported to have paid up to €40,000 to have one of them shipped and replanted in their own gardens.

Letters 50

Time Out 48 - 49

Health & beauty 51 - 53

Social

Stuff of dreams

54 - 56

THE Spanish love their olives stuffed, and have more than 50 variations packed with vari- FILLING IN: Stuffed olives. ous ingredients, with garlic, jalapeños, capers and anchovies among the most popular. Before olives are ready to be stuffed, for three months they remain stewing in brine to remove any bitterness. They are then rubbed with herbs and spices before being destoned and stuffed.

face of Cosentino, a design company headquartered in Cantoria that specialises in marble products. She and Rafael Nadal are helping sell the firm’s kitchen tops to the world.

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Albox 57 - 60

Classifieds 66 - 67

Motoring 68 - 70

The total number of news and features which appeared in Issue 1683 of the Euro Weekly News Costa Blanca South edition, including 64 local stories.

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TRIVIA FROM AROUND THE WORLD TAKE-OFF: EasyJet flight leaves Malaga's Costa del Sol airport

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From October 2 – 9

1 UK-Spain flight delays and cancellations likely due to French national strike - 13,968 2 Ryanair announce massive flight cancellations on routes to Spain due to French air traffic control strike - 11,824 3 Having a Splashing time on the Costa Blanca - 10,311 4 UK airlines warn French air traffic control strike will impact on Spain flights - 7,740 5 Record high October temperatures in Spain… But ‘significant’ rain to follow - 7,178

Poll of the week Should Spain introduce payments for the return of plastic bottles in the war against environmental pollution?

LAST WEEK’S POLL: Given the ongoing drought and changing climate, should southern Spain introduce mandatory water restrictions from April to October?

Yes = 67% No = 33%

During World War II, all the snakes and dangerous insects were killed in the London Zoo by the zoo keepers in case they managed to escape after a bombing. Vatican City has the highest crime rate per capita in the world, with an average 600 crimes committed per year despite only having 800 residents.

Top Social Media comments Man gored in neck dies at bull run in Spain - It should have been banned years ago! Barbaric sport! Julie Jones Peel Depression lead British chemist to commit suicide in Tenerife - How terribly sad for all, poor girl she must have been feeling so low. Wendy Nerding It’s awful that a professional person like this did not try and seek some expert assistance with her depression. A cruel and overwhelming illness. RIP. Tomas Kirken Tourist tax fury on Costa Blanca - Mallorca already had this tax, and it will double next year! With the concerns about terrorism, people are coming back to Spain with record no. of bookings. With this in mind it appears to be a licence to print money. Geoff Kerr A stupid idea, similar to hoteliers increasing their rates after a decent season. Consolidate what you have not rip off the tourist. Richard Taylor Ryanair announce massive flight cancellations on routes to Spain due to French air traffic control strike - Why can’t the EU show some backbone and put pressure on the

French powers that be, to finally DO something about this recurring farce??? Philip Binney Couldn’t agree more, Phil. It’s always them. I had a holiday virtually ruined by one of their strikes some years back. Eight hours in the departure lounge with three very young children. It spoilt all that had gone before. Derek White Huge anti-Catalan independence rally under way in Barcelona - Well let them vote then. Felicia Ang Let them vote Felicia Ang? Does true democracy allow the ravings and demands of splinter group have and hold elections called for and led by an unelected leader at the drop of a hat? Spain is a great democracy. Long may it remain so. Will Murphy UK - Spain flight delays and cancellations likely due to French national strike - Holidaymakers are certainly being tested to the limit this year, would not be surprised if many will decide on staycations in the future, less expense with less hassle. Doreen Nichols

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The Dutch village of Giethoorn has no roads. Its building are connected entirely by canals and footbridges.

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On Venus, a day lasts longer than a year. It takes the planet 243 Earth days to rotate once on its axis and 225 Earth days to complete a full orbit around the Sun.

Lost in translation

VISITOR’S CENTRE ELECTRIFIED EDUCATION CENTRE CORRECTIONS At the EWN, we pride ourselves that reports are accurate and fair. If we do slip up, we promise to set the record straight in a clear, no-nonsense manner. To ask for an inaccuracy to be corrected. Email: editorial@euroweeklynews.com

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Red faced CHEEKY thieves stole 100 marihuana plants from right under the noses of the Guardia Civil. They were watching over a property waiting for a court order to search it when the bandits struck. Police had cordoned off a property in Roquetas and arrested two suspects. They had ample evidence to suggest a major drug growing operation. The flat was in one of Roquetas’ most dangerous neighbourhoods and officers could see the plants growing openly on the balcony. With the suspects in custody, police were only waiting on the green light from judges to orchestrate the raid. They had cordoned off the property and made a note of the contraband inside. But in the dead of night the thieves struck. The next day when police expected to dish out justice, the plants had vanished.

OUR VIEW

Compromise is needed THERE was a major irony that yesterday (Thursday) was El Dia de la Hispanidad (National Day) here in Spain whilst the country seems to be more divided than ever. October 12 is dedicated to Christopher Columbus, but radicals in Barcelona have been calling for the iconic statue built in 1888 that stands at the bottom of La Rambla to be treated the same way as statues of former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein by pulling it down. Another important celebration which falls on the same date is the Feast of Our Lady of Pilar who happens to be the Patroness of both Spain and the Guardia Civil which may also be a cause for discomfort in Cataluña following recent events. Modern Spain is at a crossroads and the next weeks and months will determine whether the bitter split between those who want Cataluña to become an independent state and King Felipe VI and the government supported by PSOE can possibly be repaired. A logical compromise could be for the Spanish government to offer Cataluña the opportunity to hold a nonbinding referendum under different terms which would be overseen by Spain which would allow for all parties to fairly judge the wishes of the people. It’s unlikely to happen this way but without compromise on both sides, the schism will only widen.

Now we want to hear your views. YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE - YOUR OPINION www.euroweeklynews.com

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

RACY: Nicole Scherzinger.

SHE’S swapped the Dales for the dance floor on Strictly Come Dancing. But ex-Emmerdale and Hollyoaks beauty Gemma Atkinson, 32, has set tongues wagging over rumours of a romance with Spanish dancer Gorka Marquez. The pair were pictured sharing a lingering hug after an intimate dinner toSPARKING RUMOURS: gether, but former glamour model Gemma is Gemma Atkinson. is refusing to confirm Gemma Atkinson/Instagram she is dating the 27-year-old Basque. He is partnering singer Alexandra Burke, 29, on the show but appears to have waltzed off with her rival to THEY have been an item for six years and leave the 2008 X Factor champion have two sons together. outraged. But Barcelona and Spain footballer Gerard A Strictly insider told UK media Pique, 30, and Colombian pop siren Shakira, outlets: “Gorka and Gemma are to40, may be about to go their separate ways. gether. It’s the talk of the make-up The pair are no longer living together, with room. the superstar singer said to be behind the split, “Not surprisingly, Alexandra is fuaccording to Spanish celebrity gossip website rious about how it might impact her Cotilleo. chances of winning. She’s very amIt comes after the couple were last pictured bitious and is nervous about it all.” together at Pique’s Barcelona team mate Lionel

Puss in boots! SHE rose to fame as lead singer of girl supergroup the Pussycat Dolls. And Nicole Scherzinger, 39, showed she’s lost none of her star appeal as she flaunted her sensational figure while filming in Ibiza. The X Factor judge put on an eyepopping display after slipping into a raunchy leather ensemble including a pair of thigh-scraping stiletto boots and a dog collar.

Shak break-up rumours mount Messi’s wedding in June. But the defender on Tuesday posted a photo of him watching his long term squeeze in rehearsals after helping to ensure Spain’s qualification for World Cup 2018. He was booed throughout a 1-0 home win over Albania after coming under fire for his vocal support of the Catalan independence referendum, leading coach Julen Lopetegui to release him from the squad ahead of S? CK ON THE RO . ira Monday’s dead rubber win against Israel. ak Sh Gerard and Shakira/Instagram

Ballroom bombshell

Celeb focus

HORSEPLAY: Ronaldo with his Ferrari F12.

Va va vroom IT was recently revealed that he earns €347,000 every time he shares a photo on Instagram. And Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has clearly been splashing the cash after sharing photos of his car collection on the website. Alongside a €270,000 Ferrari F12, he has also taken delivery of a 460 km/h Bugatti Chiron worth €2.4m.

To dye for! SHE is known for her aggressive lyrics and outrageous fashion choices. And American rapper Nicki Minaj hid her famous curves in a full-length patent leather outfit combined with extra-long platinum hair extensions as she filmed a car advert in Madrid.

Cristiano Ronaldo/Instagram

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Scherzinger/Instagram

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By Matthew Elliott WATER experts warned that Almeria faces the dire prospect of worsening drought because of human failures. An association of irrigators, farmers, entrepreneurs and engineers blamed inaction and a lack of foresight for the province’s predicament. The loosely formed group is known as the Water Table. Their message came as the water deficit in the province reached 191.8 cubic hectometres. The new hydrological year began this month. The deficit is the amount of water needed to top up Almeria’s reservoirs to safe levels. Of particular concern, said the Water Table, is the Almanzora facility, which has a deficit of 78 cubic hectometres, or around 78 billion litres. It is running at just 7.7 per cent of its

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Shallow grave Water warning issued ahead of protest capacity, while the Beninar reservoir is surviving at just under 10 per cent. The temporary suspension of the Negratin-Almanzora and Tajo-Segura water transfers is considered the chief reason for the deficit. Other factors include the lack of adequate infrastructure to transfer water from other sources to the reservoirs. “Desalinated water would be very useful to us at the moment but we continue to get no answers from the central government,” said

PARCHED: Cuevas reservoir is at just 7.7 per cent capacity.

Javier Serrano, president of Aguas del Almanzora, which is part of the Water Table. His organisation is furious that their offer to take over the defunct Villaricos facility at the irrigators’ own cost to start combating the problem has been ignored. On Monday a protest will be held in Villaricos to demand action from Madrid. Farmers furious at the loss of crops caused by drought will march under the slogan ‘Water now - Justice for the Almanzora,’ from 10am.

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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Smelly neighbours By Matthew Elliott POLICE seized 158 marihuana plants from an indoor plantation in El Ejido. They w e re be ing drie d out in preparation for sale. Two young local men, aged 25 and 33, were arrested during the Guardia Civil raid on the property. The seizure comes as the Guardia Civil step up their anti-drug trafficking activity a c ros s the provinc e . The ir la te s t s uc c e s s s a w drugs with a street value estimated in the tens of thousands taken out of circulation. Police were tipped off by local residents who compla ine d a bout punge nt smells oozing from the flat. There was also anger about loud nois e s c oming from la rge a ir c onditione rs a ll through the night.

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Photo credit Guardia Civil

Poetry slam A NEW documentary about the life of Granadaborn poet Luis Garcia Montero will be screened at the Vera Poetry Week in March. Montero is one of Spain’s best-known poets of the 20th century.

Heat wave FANS have been installed in Garrucha’s schools while they await proper air conditioning units. Angry parents had complained after September heatwaves saw students baking in oven-like classrooms.

INDUSTRIAL: Weed growers were no amateur farmers. C los e r ins pe c tion re vealed that the property was illegally hooked up to the town’s electricity network. Peeking through a half open window, officers were able to see dozens of plants being drie d off ins ide the apartment.

The number of different bird species recorded in Spain.

Nice work With that evidence they wer e abl e t o com m i t t o a raid. The suspects are now in custody and facing drug pr oduct i on and suppl y charges.

Attraction of the Bronze Age A SUMMER record was set by the Museum of Almeria. Visitor numbers shot up by 31 per cent over July, August and September, making it the best year since the museum reopened in 2006. Almost 20,000 people visited the province’s biggest museum in just three months. Many of them flocked to the museum as it put on a packed summer programme of exciting workshops and events. Among them were hugely popular archaeology and marine exhibitions.

The maritime history of Almeria was explored and German and Swedish cinema broadcast in a film exhibition that is still ongoing. Throughout autumn a series of Mexican films, rarely seen by international audiences, will be screened at the Museum. Though it reopened in 2006, the Museum is more than 80 years old. It is renowned for its permanent exhibition, which includes artefacts from Santa Fe de Mondujar dating to the Bronze Age.

WITH 66,013 people unemployed, Almeria Province saw the best September since 2009 in terms of joblessness. A total of 39,512 new contracts were signed during the month, the highest in 2017.

Home shock AN estimated 60 per cent of Almeria’s housing stock is not accessible to people with disabilities and would actually fail the province’s new mobility regulation, a shock survey found.

Fishy affair A CHIRINGUITO owner who sneakily expanded his stand at Almeria City’s urban beach was fined €7,450 and ordered to demolish his entire operation after competitors complained.

FINANCE

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After the fourth round of Brexit talks, the UK and the EU have reached agreement on some key areas affecting expatriates. Onward freedom of movement In a significant move, Britain proposed more flexibility for freedom of movement by offering EU citizens in the UK “guaranteed rights of return.” This means those lawfully resident in Britain before Brexit would be able to leave and freely return at a later date. Previous proposals only allowed a two-year window for this right. The ball is now in the EU27’s court to agree reciprocal rights for Britons within the bloc. As things stand, a UK national resident in Spain, for example, would be unable to relocate to Portugal from April 2019 without having to apply for visas and permits as a non-EU citizen. Access to healthcare and pensions Both sides confirmed they will carry on reimbursing certain healthcare costs for citizens under the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) and S1 schemes. They also agreed to continue yearly inflation increases in state pension payments for nationals living abroad.

Brexit talks offer more certainty on citizens’ rights

By Gerald Turner, Partner, Blevins Franks One area to be resolved is the potential ‘cliff-edge’ for British personal pension and insurance payments. When current EU ‘passporting’ rights for UK financial services companies expire with Brexit, these providers cannot legally make payments to Britons abroad. However, with both sides having a mutual financial interest in resolving

this issue, it is likely to be addressed early in future negotiations. Legal protection for citizens A former ‘red line’ for Britain has been how much influence the European courts should have over UK law after Brexit. The EU has maintained that EU citizens must continue to be protected by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) while living in the UK post-Brexit. The Prime Minister initially insisted the UK holds exclusive authority within its borders. She has now offered more flexibility by signalling a future role for the ECJ in settling disputes on British soil. She has also offered to incorporate legal protections for EU citizens into UK law to ensure Parliament cannot restrict these rights. The divorce bill Long an issue of contention, the Prime Minister has now confirmed

that Britain will pay its financial dues until 2020. However, so far she has only agreed to pay a divorce bill of around €20 billion up to 2020, falling short of the estimated €50-€100 billion payment expected by the EU. Delaying full Brexit Theresa May requested a two-year transition period for Britain’s exit, pledging that Britain would continue to follow EU rules until 2021 in return for uninterrupted access to the single market. The transition period is expected to be considered in an EU summit later this month, where the EU27 will discuss whether there has been ‘sufficient progress’ to move negotiations beyond specifically divorce-related issues. What happens next? While Britain’s proposals have been welcomed as ‘a step forward’ by EU chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, he suggested it could be

months before they can move negotiations onto the next phase. Britain has now made concessions in three key areas - accepting free movement of EU citizens, paying its share of EU bills and maintaining the legal authority of the ECJ - which is widely seen as a positive step towards securing mutual agreement. Although there is still a long way to go, Britons living in Spain can find reassurances here, especially regarding healthcare and state pension payments. Amidst so much uncertainty, however, it is important to be as prepared as possible. A locally-based financial adviser can help you keep up-to-date with Brexit developments and find the best solutions tailored for you as an expatriate. Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www.blevinsfranks.com.

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Coast has the most A NEW European project to promote coastal tourism has chosen Vera as a testing ground. Vera joins seven other destinations across the continent selected for the MITOMED initiative.

Dirt lingers PLANS to modernise Almeria City’s street markets have been shelved. More than €30,000 is estimated to be needed to improve toilets, first aid and disabled access.

Spoilt soil A RUGBY team is looking for a new pitch after dozens of players contracted infections from the soil. Union Rugby Almeria has raised a complaint with the Spanish Rugby Federation.

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Centuries of faith By Matthew Elliott THE Patron Saint of Mojacar, the Virgen del Rosario (Our Lady of the Rosary), was honoured during a series of events over the weekend. Both religious and secular elements were at play as the pueblo celebrated its spiritual heritage. The fiesta began on Friday with a monologue at the Multiple Uses Centre. It was a fun take on recycling under the title ‘My life is not a can.’ On Saturday a mass was held in honour of the Virgin at noon at the Santa Maria church. Hymns took on another dimension with accompanying music from soprano Svetlana Polushina and organist Antonio Cañete Serrano. Sunday was the day everyone had been waiting for. The traditional horseback ribbon runs have been an enduring part of Mojacar's annual fiesta for centuries and once again didn't disappoint. The celebrations rounded off with a bombastic performance from the municipal band.

Photo credit Mojacar town hall

FAITH: Mojacar honours the patron saint.

Life quality counts A NEW campaign will help improve the quality of life enjoyed by Vera’s elderly community. Until November 30 the pilot project will offer new workshops and therapy sessions to a select group of 20 local senior citizens.

If the results are good then the concept will be rolled out across the town and become one of Vera’s essential social services. Workshops include healthy habits, laughter therapy, physiotherapy, dance, and arts and crafts.

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Last man standing in Partaloa

NEWS EXTRA

Refugee support

DEMANDS for Partaloa mayor Antonio Peñuela to leave office are gathering pace. The under fire mayor

was banned from holding public office by a court order in April this year. Despite the ruling, Peñuela has held on, sparking a crisis of legitimacy for

the Partaloa Council. Now councillor Alejandro Lopez has become one of the most senior names to demand that Peñuela leave the mayoral office immediately. Lopez voiced his suspicions that Peñuela is hanging on to make the task of criminal prosecutors more difficult. He described the mayor’s defiant stand as bordering on ‘illegal disobedience.’ Antonio Peñuela was found guilty of administrative offences alongside two former politicians, Federico Molina and Jose Gonzalez. They sacked the council secretary in 2011 without going through proper protocol. Peñuela maintains his innocence, saying that there is no evidence that he had an ulterior motive for the sacking.

Photo credit Facebook/Antonio Peñuela

Mayor defies court order to keep power By Matthew Elliott

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MORE than 1,000 Red Cross volunteers across Almeria began a collection campaign to help refugee children. They hope to beat the €27,000 raised last year, while raising awareness.

Let off

PARTALOA: Mayor Antonio Peñuela (inset) locked in court dispute. At the time Peñuela was among the accused as judges investigated the building of more than 100 illegal homes in Partaloa. The construction scheme took place between

The estimated number of brown bears remaining in the Asturias region of Spain.

2003-2007, during the administration of Federico Molina. Peñuela was Partaloa’s third mayor in a row to be barred from holding public office. But hopes are higher for the next mayor, who is almost certain to be an expatriate.

A MAN who plunged a kitchen knife into his exwife’s shoulder during a heated domestic argument in El Ejido got off with a suspended twoyear prison sentence as it was his first offence.

Road works FOR at least the next month there will be roadworks on the A-334 road from Baza to HuercalOvera as it passes through Purchena. A diversion route has been established.

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Thumb sucker POLICE found a 22-yearold Almeria man wanted on weapons charges hiding in his bathroom. He is suspected of using a knife during a bar brawl and possibly in a car theft.

Dog shame A DOG abandoned by his owner by the roadside near Adra spent seven nights in the same spot, risking traffic and waiting for his owner to return, before being rescued by residents.

Politics throws spanner in high-speed works By Matthew Elliott THE Catalan crisis is having an unexpected effect in Almeria. Plans to get the high-speed rail project known as the Mediterranean Corridor up and running have been thrown into doubt by the chaos. Plans to build a fast railway line between Almeria and Murcia have already been shelved to 2023, despite billions being pledged to the project. But the Almeria/Murcia leg is just one small step in the

Open gates TRAVEL agents and bloggers fanned out across Seron as the town opened its farms, bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions for an informal inspection by industry critics looking for new material to advertise.

Turmoil on the tracks larger ambition. The Mediterranean Corridor is a dream to bring southern Spain’s abundant agricultural output to the rest of Europe by train, instead of inefficient lorries. But a significant chunk will run through Catalan territory, which connects Valencia to France. At a hastily-arranged press conference, Popular Party deputy Rafael Hernando, swatted away speculation that the separation debate could force the government to postpone the project.

Photo credit Guardia Civil

NEWS

BUSTED: Huge haul hidden in belt.

“Spain will remain united,” he said, “and this is a political project that will continue to receive heavy investment next year.” Hernando committed €1.4 billion per year to the Mediterranean Corridor until 2020. Three years after that, he said, construction would arrive in Almeria, following extremely detailed blueprints. “It should not be the case that Galicia always remain disconnected from Spain, or that Almeria has no decent train,” he said.

Belt bandit busted POLICE conducting a search on a suspicious looking individual found a huge variety of drugs hidden in his belt. The 35-year-old was stopped near Roquetas de Mar with his friend after Guardia Civil officers saw them swigging booze on the street. Visibly distressed when they questioned them, police decided to search the fidgety pair. At that point one tried to excuse himself and began to walk away.

Officers caught up with him and patted him down. They soon realised that his belt had its own secret compartment. They opened it up and found that, around his waist, he had been carrying 50 tabs of LSD, a bag of cocaine with little over a gram inside, and small quantities of marihuana and hashish. Given the sheer volume of LSD the man was placed under arrest and now faces dealing charges on top of possession penalties.

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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Photo credit Mojacar town hall

NEWS

APPROVED: Mojacar’s tourism workers get recognition they deserve.

Stamp of approval MOJACAR’S tourism office has been awarded the SICTED seal of quality for the third year running. The badge is an official stamp of approval concerning the quality of service offered to tourists in Mojacar. It is valid for two years, with an annual review of local tourist services. The coveted award was presented to Carmen Garcia Campoy, manager of Mojacar’s tourism office, by Domingo Fernandez, mayor of HuercalOvera. The SICTED seal of quality is the brainchild of Spain’s national tourism ministry and is supported by the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces. The programme encourages popular towns and villages across Spain to bolster their tourist-

friendly credentials. As one of Spain’s most visited pueblos, the award is immensely important to Mojacar. The tourism office was commended for its commitment to customer service, quality improvement and the working practices it follows. The website www.mojacar.es was given particular praise for its ease of use, variety of information, readable and up-to-date nature. Reviewers were also impressed with Mojacar’s other online offerings, including the Mojacar Informa and Mojacar Ofertas pages which are chock full of useful local information. It is the second award won by Mojacar in a matter of weeks. The pueblo recently won the family tourism seal of approval.

Your Belgian estate agent at the coast!

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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NEWS Photo credit Nijar council

SMELLY: Volunteers bravely battle for clean beaches.

Beach super sweep Volunteers get down and dirty MORE than 100 volunteers helped clean the hard-to-reach nooks and crannies of the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park. The super sweep was organised by Nijar’s tourist department and a wide range of local companies which often use the park. Among them were kayaking, diving, and hiking tour guides. Local residents and nature lovers also pitched in during the day long clean up. After a packed summer, which saw more than 200,000 people visit the park, the 100-strong army had their work cut out for them.

They took on coves, caves, islets and beaches big and small. By the end they had accumulated a vast volume of plastic bottles and bags, cigarette butts, beer cans and bottles, and other miscellaneous litter. “I want to thank all the volunteers and companies who

have spent a whole morning collecting plastics, cigarette butts, bottles and waste of all kinds in the coves of Nijar,” read a statement from the tourist office. “It is necessary to make society aware of the importance of keeping our environment clean,” it added. The office also warned that a large amount of the waste was collected in areas of high ecological value. Uncontrolled dumping of waste in some areas also impacted the park’s quieter spots, where litter is often washed up in torrential rains or by the tide.

Dealing Dutchmen A DUTCH boat that once sailed €50 million worth of hashish into the Cabo de GataNijar Natural Park is being sold at auction. Customs officials are hoping to raise at least €50,000 from the sale. Known as Mirca, the boat was found with 8.7 tons of hashish when it was raided by anti-drugs police in September 2015. At the time it was one of the biggest seizures in Almeria’s history. Three Dutch nationals were arrested. They are serving lengthy prison sentences in Spain. Mirca is 15 metres long with a 160 horsepower engine.

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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NEWS

Almeria Province’s pension pickle LOW pension payments mean Almeria is one of the very few places that can support senior citizens through social security payments alone. This year the province is expected to raise €985.2 million from social security contributions, while paying out €919.2 million in pensions. Only Madrid and the Canary and Balearic Islands are in a comparable situation. In other Spanish provinces, like Asturias, social security contributions cover barely 40 per cent of the pension pay out. A lme ria a ls o be ne fits f r om havi ng a younger population and seeing unemployment figures drop in recent years as the

economy recovers. If Almeria Province was a country by itself, it would even be in a position to increase the state pension without falling further into debt. Asturias, Madrid and other areas do, however, have much higher pensions than Almeria. The province’s 102,859 pensioners get the third lowest monthly pay out in Spain, receiving €747 on average. That is €180 less than the Spanish national average and some €400 less than pensioners in Alava enjoy. Eight provinces across Spain provide more than €1,000 per month. Almeria fares the worst in Andalucia.

12 - 18 October / Costa de AlmerĂa

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NEWS

Stargazers find new planets 10 light years from Earth. One planet within its orbit is worthy of ASTRONOMERS at further inspection. It is the Calar Alto Observa50 t i m es t he m ass of tory have discovered Earth and takes 7,026 seven new planetary days to orbit its sun. systems. Another possibility is Over the course of 15 a new planet with a months they have been mass 90 times that of analysing a sample of Earth, which orbits GJ 300 stars using the pop1148 in the Ursa Major ular radial velocity constellation 36 light technique. years away. This involves looking The Calar Alto Obserfor tiny changes in the vatory is chiefly focusmovement patterns of ing on red dwarf stars stars caused by the which are believed to be gravitational pull of the NEW HOPE: Calar Alto astronomers more likely to possess planets orbiting them. are exploring new solar systems. habitable planets. Astronomers at the Astronomers there are fordidates among the seven new Spanish-German observatory tunate to have a 3.5 metre planetary systems discovare searching the skies for long telescope, the largest of ered. planets similar to Earth. In its kind on mainland EuOne is around a red dwarf their latest report they reveal rope. star, GJ 15A, which is over they have found several canBy Matthew Elliott

12 - 18 October / Costa de Almería

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NEWS

Hard work behind beauty By Matthew Elliott A PASSIONATE call to protect Spain’s smallest villages and local cultures was made in Mojacar. Tourism councillor Emmanuel Aguero made the plea as the pueblo celebrated its inclusion in the Association of the Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Spain. Mojacar is one of 57 pretty pueblos included in the exclusive club. But Aguero was keen to stress that Mojacar, and all the other members, face a variety of challenges in the near future. He thanked the Association for helping preserve the heritage, culture and customs of different towns and villages across Spain. Aguero warned, however, that population decline poses a real threat to their continued success. Many towns have ageing populations and fewer people who remember the details and history of their cherished customs, Aguero noted. But he was confident about the future thanks to the efforts of the Association, and particularly the Mojacar tourist board. Mojacar is also part of the network of

€2,001

Photo by Mojacar town hall

PROUD: Flag of Spain’s prettiest pueblos association raised in Mojacar.

beautiful European villages, which extends across France and Italy. With its holding of the Romantic Night, a summer solstice event where the villages celebrate the world’s largest kiss, Mojacar is firmly on the The fine which residents collectively pay for global tourism map. throwing a live turkey from a tower each year during a religious festival in Jaen, Andalucia.

FINANCE

Madrid bank needs cash

A NUMBER of high profile companies have already announced that they will move their head offices out of Barcelona and others are considering their future. It seems that the Sabadell Bank has made the decision to move in the event of independence to either Alicante or Madrid whilst it is strongly expected that CaixaBank will decide at an Extraordinary General Meeting to look to move to Valencia. Other companies who are definitely moving are telecommunications operator Eurona which has proper-

Photo by World Travel & Tourism Council flickr

Ryanair increases pilots’ wages especially Norwegian inviting pilots to transfer to join their expanding fleet, so despite the fact that the recently failed Monarch airlines may see their pilots looking for work elsewhere, Mr O’Leary clearly wishes to keep continuity within his airline. He has promised his pilots a secure future and referred to the insolvency of Air Berlin, Alitalia and Monarch this year and suggested that pilots consider long and hard before defecting to less financially secure airlines.

By John Smith ties acquired following takeovers in Madrid, whilst dental specialists Proclinic Expert have their eyes set on Zaragoza. In addition and supposedly not due to the possibility of independence, Oryzon, a biotech company founded in Barcelona in 2000, confirmed through the Spanish stock exchange that it will be moving its head office to Madrid. Independence could prove to be a major problem for banks headquar-

BUSINESS EXTRA

Smoke screen THE Spanish Tax Agency has announced that in the past year it has seized 6.5 million packs of cigarettes and 97,000 packs of tobacco. It believes that its ongoing battle against contraband tobacco is continuing to be successful.

Peseta plea FOUR people who claimed compensation for the loss of 48,458 pesetas issued by the Republican side in 1936 have had their claim rejected by a Spanish court. They argued that the Nationalists seized the money illegally and wanted the euro equivalent including interest.

Easy connect THE number of Spanish households that has access to the internet has risen to 83.4 per cent, although the majority of access is through mobile phones. Just 13.5 million households have broadband access and a growing amount is through fibre optics.

Airline staff call off strike PILOTS flying for Thomas Cook airline have settled their dispute with the company and called off three strikes planned for Friday and the following two weeks. The eight days of strikes were due after an earlier action in September, believed to be the

A EURO WEEKLY NEWS 6 PAGE SPECIAL SECTION | WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM/3.0.15/FINANCE

Beware of reactions and counter-reactions, which will not be good for Catalonia or Spain,” warned Antonio Garamendi Vice President of the Spanish SME Confederation on companies planning to move HQs from Barcelona.

RYANAIR CEO Michael O’Leary.

EWN

is the amount that cash-starved Abengoa hopes to raise from the sale of subsidiary Atlantica Yield.

Catalan businesses will leave

CONSIDERED to be the most vulnerable of the Spanish Banks on the Stock Exchange, Liberbank is looking to raise an additional €500 million to prop it up. Whilst approval for this capital increase will be required at a forthcoming shareholders’ meeting, the bank already has foreign bank advisors in place, ready to underwrite the proposed new offer of shares.

THE chief executive of Ryanair Michael O’Leary has written to pilots offering them enhanced pay and conditions and apologising for annual leave confusion. Not known for his tact in the past, on this occasion, the Ryanair boss appeared to be alert to the fact that a large number of pilots had joined unions since the problem of holiday rotas had seen the cancellation of thousands of flights. In addition, there have been approaches from other airlines,

€700 million

STAT OF WEEK

business & legal

Quote of the Week

Costa de Almería

12 - 18 October 2017

first British airline pilots strike in decades. Both the pilots union BALPA and the management of the airline have expressed their pleasure at the fact they were able to come to an agreement which meant the minimum of disruption to passengers.

tered in Cataluña as in the event that the new Catalan State should fall into financial difficulty it would be unlikely to underwrite the liabilities of banks based there, whilst those who have head offices in Spain would continue to receive protection from the European Central Bank. Share prices fell with the announcement of the result of the referendum, but those who have either announced or indicated the likelihood of moving out of the region have seen some very significant gains.

Back on track in Saudi Arabia THE Spanish consortium constructing the 450 kilometre high-speed link between Medina and Mecca in Saudi Arabia expects to see live tests shortly. There have been delays and financial difficulties but rail operator Renfe plans to start running passenger trials by the end of this year and if all is successful a full service by the second quarter of 2018. Taking nearly four years to complete, the service will see trains travelling at up to 300 kilometres per hour.

E W N 12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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LONDON - FTSE 100

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on opposite page

C LOSING P RICES O CTOBER 9

PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY Anglo American 1,435.50 -45.50 Associated British Foods 3,212.50 -59.50 Admiral Group 1,943.50 90.50 Ashtead Group 1,910.50 65.50 Antofagasta 975.00 -22.50 Aviva 497.50 0.20 AstraZeneca 5,112.50 -41.50 BAE Systems 608.00 -5.00 Babcock International Group 827.00 -2.00 Barclays 193.75 3.55 British American Tobacco 4,815.00 33.50 Barratt Developments 648.50 -7.50 Berkeley Group Holdings (The)3,749.00 -43.00 British Land Co 606.00 5.50 BHP Billiton 1,381.00 1.00 Bunzl 2,308.00 -0.56 BP 482.50 -5.65 Burberry Group 1,795.00 -2.00 BT Group 283.75 0.60 Coca-Cola HBC 2,600.00 50.00 Carnival 4,917.50 -11.50 Centrica 181.50 7.00 Compass Group 1,595.00 -26.00 Croda International 4,031.00 131.00 CRH 2,774.00 3.81 ConvaTec Group 284.20 0.02 DCC 7,405.00 85.00 Diageo 2,541.25 6.25 Direct Line Insurance Group 357.65 -6.65 Experian 1,519.50 -24.50 easyJet 1,242.00 -21.00 Ferguson 5,180.00 -20.00 Fresnillo 1,439.00 15.00 G4S 300.65 19.35 GKN 347.25 -9.05 Glencore 365.25 -1.65 GlaxoSmithKline 1,518.50 -10.00 Hargreaves Lansdown 1,518.50 26.50 Hammerson 536.50 2.50 HSBC Holdings 750.00 -6.90 International Consldtd Air Grp 615.00 0.50 InterContinental Hotels Grp 4,045.00 -48.00 3i Group 935.50 -0.50 Imperial Brands 3,160.00 25.50 Informa 664.50 -18.00 Intertek Group 5,105.00 -40.00 ITV 178.85 1.15 Johnson Matthey 3,470.00 64.00 Kingfisher 299.50 -7.80 Land Securities Group 972.50 -7.50

% CHG. NET VOL -3.07 20,696.88 -1.82 26,046.08 4.88 5,164.33 3.55 9,185.75 -2.26 9,824.06 0.04 19,666.75 -0.81 64,574.27 -0.82 19,590.16 -0.24 4,181.28 1.87 32,407.29 0.70 107,910.68 -1.14 6,530.14 -1.13 5,122.76 0.92 6,135.79 0.07 28,967.07 -0.02 7,728.79 -1.16 97,158.61 -0.11 7,638.34 0.21 27,720.04 1.96 9,221.54 -0.23 10,487.94 4.01 9,927.38 -1.60 25,383.21 3.36 5,115.12 0.14 23,504.57 0.01 5,520.72 1.16 6,524.76 0.25 63,494.52 -1.83 4,890.88 -1.59 14,122.46 -1.66 5,100.15 -0.38 13,081.82 1.05 10,574.42 6.88 4,322.74 -2.54 6,088.46 -0.45 53,303.73 -0.65 74,935.35 1.78 7,081.58 0.47 4,223.90 -0.91 151,531.92 0.08 13,171.21 -1.17 7,683.20 -0.05 9,042.72 0.81 29,872.51 -2.64 5,586.75 -0.78 8,255.13 0.65 7,193.41 1.88 6,591.75 -2.54 6,678.27 -0.77 7,243.84

COMPANY

PRICE(P)

Legal & General Group 262.25 Lloyds Banking Group ORD 67.20 London Stock Exchange Grp 3,915.00 Micro Focus International 2,403.50 Mediclinic International 762.00 Merlin Entertainments 451.50 Marks & Spencer Group 349.00 Mondi 2,191.50 Morrison (Wm) Supermarkets 255.50 National Grid 935.00 NMC Health 2,838.00 Next 5,250.00 Old Mutual Group 200.35 Paddy Power Betfair 7,852.50 Prudential 1,787.50 Persimmon 2,698.50 Pearson 615.00 Reckitt Benckiser Group 6,825.00 Royal Bank of Scotland Group 265.50 Royal Dutch Shell 2,293.50 Royal Dutch Shell 2,337.50 RELX 1,654.00 Rio Tinto 3,690.00 Rolls-Royce Group 902.00 Randgold Resources 7,462.50 RSA Insurance Group 635.00 Rentokil Initial 302.50 Sainsbury (J) 244.25 Schroders 3,450.00 Sage Group (The) 710.00 Segro 534.00 Shire 3,862.50 Smurfit Kappa Group 2,250.00 Sky 862.50 Standard Life Aberdeen 427.50 Smiths Group 1,575.00 Scottish Mortgage Invstmnt Trst 430.25 Smith & Nephew 1,332.50 SSE 1,388.50 Standard Chartered 771.00 St James's Place 1,132.50 Severn Trent 2,174.00 Tesco 186.00 TUI AG 1,355.00 Taylor Wimpey 200.65 Unilever 4,319.50 United Utilities Group 857.50 Vodafone Group 211.55 Worldpay Group 414.00 WPP Group 1,383.00 Whitbread 3,788.50

CHANGE(P) -0.55 0.60 -39.00 -28.50 76.00 -13.90 0.30 77.50 23.40 -2.80 -48.04 85.00 4.15 167.50 -31.50 -8.50 -14.50 -11.00 -7.10 -4.00 6.00 -37.00 -20.00 -17.50 32.50 11.00 -1.30 2.25 -13.00 -20.00 0.50 0.50 -86.00 -61.00 -1.00 -40.00 -4.75 -59.50 17.50 -1.90 0.50 16.00 -2.40 70.00 1.25 -62.50 -5.00 -0.25 -0.38 -24.00 -74.50

% CHG. -0.21 0.90 -0.99 -1.17 11.08 -2.99 0.09 3.67 10.08 -0.30 -1.69 1.65 2.12 2.18 -1.73 -0.31 -2.30 -0.16 -2.60 -0.17 0.26 -2.19 -0.54 -1.90 0.44 1.76 -0.43 0.93 -0.38 -2.74 0.09 0.01 -3.68 -6.61 -0.23 -2.48 -1.09 -4.27 1.28 -0.25 0.04 0.74 -1.27 5.45 0.63 -1.43 -0.58 -0.12 -0.09 -1.71 -1.93

NET VOL 15,596.09 48,426.51 13,578.74 10,576.75 4,895.30 4,711.32 5,753.19 10,342.30 5,489.48 31,886.01 5,560.66 7,578.19 9,539.29 6,469.65 46,416.67 8,351.42 5,069.98 47,891.73 32,644.82 104,930.53 87,831.66 17,907.21 49,886.55 16,951.80 6,994.35 6,325.63 5,616.73 5,321.97 7,768.39 7,870.94 5,355.58 35,391.00 5,565.77 15,909.50 12,662.52 6,358.32 6,030.30 12,055.90 14,086.00 25,622.99 5,972.73 5,135.88 15,281.60 7,561.05 6,521.06 55,274.30 5,884.70 57,483.69 8,288.00 17,512.56 7,080.25

0,89383

1,11832 Units per €

US dollar................................................................1,17238 Japan yen ...........................................................132,045 Switzerland franc..............................................1,14703 Denmark kroner ..............................................7,44299 Norway kroner .................................................9,38242 currenciesdirect.com/mojacar • Tel: +34 950 478 914

DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES O CTOBER 9

COMPANY 3M AMERICAN EXPRESS APPLE BOEING CO CATERPILLAR CHEVRON CISCO SYSTEMS COCA-COLA DOWDUPONT EXXON MOBIL GENERAL ELECTRIC GOLDMAN SACHS HOME DEPOT IBM INTEL CORP J.P.MORGAN CHASE JOHNSON & JOHNSON MC DONALD'S CORP MERCK AND CO. NEW MICROSOFT NIKE PFIZER PROCTER AND GAMBLE TRAVELERS CIES UNITED TECHNOLOGIE UNITEDHEALTH GROUP VERIZON COMMS VISA WAL-MART STORES WALT DISNEY CO

PRICE 216,520 91,5500 155,300 258,580 126,930 117,03 33,750 45,49 71,22 81,71 24,3900 246,02 165,8500 146,48 39,6300 96,9200 133,2200 159,6000 64,55 76,000 52,42 36,0500 92,330 125,07 118,23 198,06 48,81 106,73 79,0000 100,0700

CHANGE% +0,07% +0,43% -0,06% -0,12% +0,42% -1,31% +0,48% -0,07% +0,35% -0,38% -0,61% -0,02% -0,16% -0,16% +0,25% -0,18% +0,02% +0,50% -0,08% +0,04% +0,46% +0,14% +0,33% +0,51% +0,05% +0,08% -1,93% +0,46% -0,52% -0,04%

CHANGE VOLUME(M) 0,150 129.194,12 0,3900 80.928,34 -0,090 802.159,91 -0,310 152.842,34 0,530 75.012,18 -1,55 221.772,16 0,160 168.751,82 -0,03 194.028,69 0,25 166.286,18 -0,31 346.213,92 -0,1500 211.167,30 -0,04 95.179,02 -0,2700 195.447,96 -0,24 136.510,61 0,1000 186.221,37 -0,1700 341.058,03 0,0300 357.562,44 0,8000 129.275,46 -0,05 176.050,72 0,030 585.370,54 0,24 68.782,80 0,0500 214.401,93 0,300 235.442,81 0,63 34.509,94 0,06 94.333,01 0,16 191.496,28 -0,96 199.075,11 0,49 195.248,66 -0,4100 235.988,93 -0,0400 154.394,40 M - MILLION DOLLARS

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES O CTOBER 9

COMPANY

PRICE

CHANGE NET / %

Most Advanced Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. $ 14.15 Hydrogenics Corporation $ 10.15 TravelCenters of America LLC $ 5.80 Flexion Therapeutics, Inc. $ 29.93 Kandi Technologies Group, Inc. $ 9.20 Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, Inc. $ 8.15 Ferroglobe PLC $ 14.76 Northern Technologies International Corporation$ 17.45 RF Industries, Ltd. $ 2.45 Calithera Biosciences, Inc. $ 17.25 ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. $ 21.26

3.43 ▲ 32.00% 1.225 ▲ 13.73% 0.65 ▲ 12.62% 2.81 ▲ 10.36% 0.85 ▲ 10.18% 0.71 ▲ 9.54% 1.24 ▲ 9.17% 1.45 ▲ 9.06% 0.20 ▲ 8.89% 1.20 ▲ 7.48% 1.41 ▲ 7.10%

Most Declined Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Zion Oil & Gas Inc Inotek Pharmaceuticals Corporation Everspin Technologies, Inc. Catabasis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Tocagen Inc. Nightstar Therapeutics plc Axovant Sciences Ltd. Marinus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Helen of Troy Limited Cidara Therapeutics, Inc.

$ 25.25 $ 2.80 $ 2.62 $ 13.37 $ 2.49 $ 10.44 $ 16.75 $ 7.05 $ 6.945 $ 87.80 $ 7.30

4.75 ▼ 15.83% 0.48 ▼ 14.63% 0.41 ▼ 13.53% 1.96 ▼ 12.79% 0.35 ▼ 12.32% 1.36 ▼ 11.53% 2.12 ▼ 11.23% 0.87 ▼ 10.98% 0.745 ▼ 9.69% 9.30 ▼ 9.58% 0.70 ▼ 8.75%

E W N 12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

Coal is out of favour

Christmas could be costly in the UK

AS governments around the world demand a move away from environmentally damaging coal and oil, the larger oil companies in particular are expanding their natural gas resources. Currently, Royal Dutch Shell is managing a huge deposit in Australia and will convert the gas into Liquefied fuel (LNG) which can be transported around the world in tankers. A similar operation in the Southern Hemisphere is being managed by Chevron which is reported to have invested a massive €75 billion into the building of a new platform and other major oil companies are also investing heavily in this growing area of business. Currently a great deal of electricity, particularly in China and India is being produced by burning coal which is recognised as a major pollutant and a generating planting using LNG can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide produced by 50 per cent and 75 per cent less nitrogen oxide. The large oil companies can see that their reliance on oil to fuel vehicles is coming to an end, with the decision to phase out diesel powered vehicles within a few years and the growth of electric cars with batteries which will stay charged for much longer distances. Countries which had little if any oil may still have natural gas deposits as the deeper the compressed matter is found, the more likely it is to have turned into gas rather than oil. The five countries with largest gas deposits currently known are believed to be in Russia, Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Turkmenistan although the figures presented by US Energy Information Administration are quite old and do not even include the USA.

Photo by Nakilat

LIQUID NATURAL GAS WILL TAKE OVER

QATARI ship transporting LNG.

More and more LNG projects are being presented to governments around the world whilst the search for crude oil is declining and with LNG suitable for urban taxis and other vehicles, distribution is almost as important as new finds. The cost of freezing and moving the liquid gas in bulk is steadily decreasing as companies invest more in this area and even the movement of the gas can be greener as marine diesel is slowly being replaced by engines driven by LNG.

DESPITE FALLS IN THE SPANISH STOCK MARKET

German Bank tips Santander IN a published statement, Deutsche Bank which appears to have recovered from its own financial difficulties has identified Banco Santander as a good investment option. Untainted by the Catalonian problem and only recently considered by the Spanish government and European Central Bank an ideal partner to take over Banco Popular, it seems ready to fend off law suits from disgruntled Banco Popular shareholders who have lost everything. The majority of Spanish bank shares fell following the results of the arguably illegal Catalan Independence Referendum and the German banking group believes that Santander under the firm leadership of Ana Botin is undervalued. It forecasts that 2018 will be a very profitable year for the Cantabrian based bank with profits rising by more than 10 per cent and an increase in the value of dividends paid to shareholders. With a target price of €6.60, it would have to see a strong surge of around 14 per cent as shares have been trading between €5.80 and €5.85 for several

ANA BOTIN: Has been chair of the parent company since 2014.

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weeks, although it had a short lived drop to €5.60. Ana Botin the fourth generation of her family to head Santander Bank, studied economics at Bryn Mawr College and attended Harvard Business School where she earned an MBA. She then worked for eight years at JP Morgan in the USA and in 1988 she came back to Spain and began working for the Santander Group. In 2002 she

was appointed the executive chairman of the Spanish bank, Banesto, a subsidiary of Santander where she served until 2010 when she became CEO of Santander UK. When her father died in 2014, she was immediately appointed chair of the parent company which continues to be highly successful. So impressed was David Cameron with this Spanish businesswoman that he appointed her in 2014 as one of his advisors in the Business Advisory Group and following this appointment she was then made an honorary Dame Commander of the British Empire (DBE) in December 2015, for services to the British financial services sector. Now with more than 186,000 employees and 14,392 branches spread across most of Europe and much of South America, the bank has also been increasing its business in Asia and the USA and its charismatic and hardworking chair continues to be a driving force behind the bank’s burgeoning strength.

CHRISTMAS is already upon us although Spain is not as quick to jump on the band wagon as UK retailers who are already promoting cards, decorations and gifts. Stores such as Morrisons in Gibraltar are following suit offering plenty of Christmas items alongside an extensive Halloween collection but stores in the UK are worried that this won’t be a bumper celebration as far as they are concerned. British consumers are fearful that the prices of goods will continue to increase due to a weak pound and Brexit fears meaning that they may have to cut back on their spending according to a survey undertaken by Mintel, the world’s largest market intelligence agency with global offices in Europe, the Far East and Asia,

Foundation to quit Cataluña MASKED by the interest caused by the move of industrialists and banks out of Cataluña, a charitable foundation worth almost €22 billion has also left. La Caixa Banking Foundation Group which exists to manage a huge pension fund and administers charitable activities throughout Spain has decided to set up its new headquarters in Palma, Mallorca. Madrid has been the main beneficiary of the move of head offices out of Barcelona although it is unlikely that the banks in particular will move the majority of their staff who will continue to operate from their existing offices, so fears of massive unemployment in Barcelona are unlikely to come true.

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FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

UNITY: Demonstration against Catalan independence in Barcelona.

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WHILST the European Union has sided with Spain on the Cataluña situation, the IMF has now warned that the entire Spanish economy could suffer a loss of confidence. Despite the fact that Cataluña is considered the industrial power house of Spain and accounts for 19 per cent of GDP, the American financial ratings agencies have steadily downgraded its rating and it is now considered to be junk (negative) investment status. To some extent the flow of companies out of Barcelona to

the rest of Spain, which is being made as easy as possible by the government, will not necessarily be a disastrous blow, as i n m a n y c a s e s , h e a d o ff i c e s will be set up externally but staff will continue to work out of Cataluña’s capital. Ti m e w i l l t e l l w h e t h e r t h e Spanish economy will be badly affected by the current situation but, unless a settlement of some type is made, there will be continued ongoing problems, especially as not everyone in the province favours independence.

Andalucia’s recordbreaking exports EXPORTS from Andalucia hit an alltime record for the first seven months of 2017 with a total of €18 billion. This is a 20.1 per cent increase over the same months in 2016 and as an added bonus imports were down, leaving the economy in the happy position of having a €1.92 billion trade surplus. The province is the second largest exporter in Spain after Cataluña and is well ahead of the Basque Country in third place. According to the Extenda-Andalucian Agency for Foreign Promotion, the biggest growth in trade has been with China which saw a massive jump to €684 million making it the eighth largest market for

Andalucian produce. France continues to be the market l e a d e r, s p e n d i n g € 2 . 1 b i l l i o n , f o l l o w e d b y G e r m a n y, I t a l y a n d t h e United Kingdom, whilst of the nonEU countries in the top 10, joining China, are the United States and Morocco. Important exports are olive oil and table olives as well as sweet oranges, lemons, wine, ham and tuna, with new markets for gourmet produce in particular being opened. Although agricultural produce m a k e s u p a l a rg e p r o p o r t i o n o f e x ports, the province has also been particularly successful in the sale of minerals and oil as well as electrical goods and metal.

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

EWN

FEATURE

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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Look before you leap, or send a letter LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT I DON’T often react to mail I receive, particularly those that are not constructive and often downright nasty, but I do feel a couple of last week’s missives merit a certain repudiation from the ol’ boy. Of course, as usual, the wrong end of the stick was firmly seized by at least one of these communications. My point about Facebook removing my posting of the naked white man being kicked and stoned to death by black youths, without intervention on an SA street, was not that it was actually taking place, but the fact that the site seemed to allow the most horrendous acts by terrorist groups to remain, but deemed it necessary to remove and, subsequently, continue to sweep under the carpet, the desperate and totally unacceptable treatment of the white citizens who still live in those African countries. Contrary to one of your letters I do, in fact, know exactly what I am talking about. Not only do I receive weekly updates from friends in Africa, but I have also toured and lived for a while in both SA and Rhodesia/Zimbabwe; experiencing the apartheid and also their so-called liberated eras. Well I remember, during my trip to

JOHANNESBURG: A city of stark contrasts to its own citizens. a then fairly young Zimbabwe, having local black residents furtively sidle up and inform me how much better their lives were under Mr Smith! At least during those far off days these countries prospered. Although the blacks were disgracefully oppressed and reduced to second-class

citizens in their own land, they did at least reap the benefits of the hard work, efforts and expertise of the white settlers i.e. roofs over their heads, food on the table and schools for their children. Both countries have now descended into utter anarchy under the jackboots of the ANC and the

despot Mugabe. Whites are afraid to shop or go into many public places alone. Muggings and robbery are the norm. Abductions, rapes and murders of whites are not even reported. Johannesburg has become the most dangerous city in the world. Those whites who have survived, are forced to live in virtual fortresses, with high walls topped by barbed wire and compounds patrolled by dogs, backed up by armouries of firearms. Farms seized by the authorities, once productive and highly successful, lie barren and unattended, while the ordinary local black citizens, most living in poverty and starvation, look helplessly on as the privileged few indulge themselves in lives of luxury and decadence, far in excess of the white politicians and leaders of yore. And the world looks on and does precisely nothing. I rest my case. Please, if you do feel the need to communicate, either by email or online, can you first make sure you actually understand my point and not merely pluck a couple of lines or phrases out purely to be unpleasant? It really is such an utter waste of precious time and energy. Keep ‘em coming however, I do peruse them all. Hang in there. Keep the faith. Love Leapy columnists@euroweeklynews.com

leapylee2002@gmail.com

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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Gifting golden olive oil for friends and family IT could well be the most unique, working olive grove in Spain. ‘Querencia’ it is called, a place where one feels most secure and at home. In every case it offers something unusual for the visitor, a chance to adopt an olive tree for a friend or family. Maybe someone far away needs reminded about Spain? Buy them a tree for life, €40. You receive a personalised certificate, a special gift package with info about the history of the farm, and a litre of extra fine virgin oil from the trees, all presented in a slick box. In their brochures there are also recipes for using the oil the way the Spanish do, for health and fine cuisine. You can pop in and visit them unannounced, but it is better to book (to get good directions), as they are always busy with groups learning about the ancient form of

Ric Polansky Ric Polansky moved to Mojacar in 1969 as a pioneer developer. He reads extensively and has travelled in South America panning gold and looking for El Dorado.

olive oil production and how it has evolved. We enjoyed this as, although I have tasted various oils, I never knew much about the production. For instance, some olives are just for oil, like the alberquina on this farm. Planned excursions include the long version for €30, from 10am to 4pm with breakfast coffee and rolls, a buffet lunch including wine or beer and dessert, with the gaps in between filled in with short tours, oil tasting and group activities. Plenty of information is served up concerning the olives, trees, and caretaking of your plants. A shorter tour version for €20 includes oil tasting, short tours,

helm on 634 320 308. Finca tapas and wine for two hours. A toQuerencia is just a few kms outside tally fun day out and learning about of Huercal-Overa on paved roads Spain. and easy to find. In our case we Not only will bought trees for you learn a lot, loved ones passed but could well and for those that walk away ownwe anxiously ing your own await their return. tree or three. How fun to take Ever accommothem for a drive in dating, Angela the country, stop said she would and walk through even take photos an olive grove and of your tree if show them their you can’t make tree with a nice it back for any sign or ribbon on length of time. it (optional). Wilhelm also Or, just arrange does an informaa visit for a quick ANGELA: A warm tive newsletter. oil tasting and buy welcome awaits. Write to some oil directly in info@olivasquerencia. com or give one, three or five litre carafes for them a call. Be expectant for an ex€15, €35 or €50. All of these need citing outing into the real Spain. to be arranged. Call Angela or Wil-

FEATURE

Obituary for Rufus Pendleton RUFUS and Marie came to Mojacar first in 1973, and moved here full time in 1978. Rufus was born in Los Angeles and moved to London as a young man. He met his sweetheart Marie, an Irish girl, in Altea, Alicante, after crossing Europe on an elderly scooter. They opened a small bar restaurant on the beach called The Focus, serving the best food in Mojacar, together with good cheer and loud classical music. While the kitchen used marketfresh produce and only offered a couple of dishes daily, the recipes were always secret; but I can now reveal to a generation of drinkers that Rufus’ Bloody Mary has a small dribble of sherry added. The Focus closed abruptly in the late 90’s after Rufus was found to have cancer. Mojacar has lost a great character with his passing.

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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FEATURE

Advertising feature EXCITEMENT is in the air, you open the door to your holiday home and the minute you drop your bags there’s a sigh of contentment as you’re ready to relax and unwind, or are you? Sometimes this is the moment you realise an unexpected incident has taken place, such as a burst pipe or a break in. When you buy your insurance, as much as you’d prefer not to think about claiming, unfortunately it’s not always avoidable. However Intasure have had a look at some of the most common reasons for a notification of claim and put together these top tips to help reduce the risk of something going wrong, so you can enjoy your holiday without a worry. Escape of water This type of claim could arise if water has escaped into the property as a result of burst pipes, leaky appliances, blocked drains or faulty boilers. As well as damage to the property itself, additional costs may be incurred if you need to replace floors or walls used to gain access to fix the leaky pipe; otherwise known as trace and access. Or your water bills have increased because of the amount of water lost; also known as loss of metered water. Some precautions you can take to help prevent escape of water include: • Turning off or draining all water when you leave the property for a long period of time.

How to reduce the risk of claiming on your property

INTASURE: Making sure your property is properly covered for every eventuality.

• Regular balcony maintenance, if worn away and exposed to the heat it can allow water to penetrate through the property. Theft and attempted theft A lot of people assume the only way to deter a burglar is to buy the most expensive home alarm system but if you’re savvy enough there are lots of other steps you can take to secure your home: • Let your neighbours know - they can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity • Act like someone is home - keep the garden maintained and ask your neighbour to remove any post, as these are big giveaways, and purchase a light timer to switch on at prime hours. • Remove any valuables - or at least remove them from view of the windows and doors, particularly if you plan to be away for a long period of time. Intasure include all of these perils as standard on their holiday home and static caravan policies to give you the protection you require to safeguard your home. In the instance you have to make a claim, you can speak to one of their dedicated UK claims handlers who work with overseas loss adjusters and aim to resolve all claims as quickly and hassle free as possible.* Call +44 345 111 0680 or visit www.inta sure.com to find out more.

*Terms and conditions apply. For limitations and exclusions, please read the policy documents for full details. Intasure is a trading name of Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. (Financial Services Register Number 311786) Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 7th Floor, 55 Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909. www.ajginternational.com.

Abodes provide great inspiration SINCE opening at the end of March 2016 Abodes has been going from strength to strength. Over the last 18 months they have been bringing unique and affordable, luxury items to Mojacar Playa and the surrounding areas, enabling their customers to purchase beautiful items on their doorstep rather than undertaking the long journey to Almeria or Murcia to achieve the same. Abodes pride themselves on being able to offer quirky, quality and different statement pieces including a pink chaise longue, statement lamps as well as original artwork and prints. Abodes’ customers consist mainly of residents who like adding beautiful products to their home but staff have also found that the shop attracts people purchasing a new property, as well as people who have rented for a number of years and are now deciding to upgrade their linen and furnishings, or just people who love browsing for that special gift.

Here is a sample of some fabulous items currently in the shop: Deluxe Egyptian cotton towels starting at 650 going up to 800 grams per square metre (gsm) - so pure luxury - at excellent prices. Also cushions, curtains, lamps, home accessories, gifts and gift vouchers, bed and sofa throws, dressing gowns, slippers, soap, unbreakable outdoor dining sets (BPA Free), outdoor garden furniture, mirrors and much, much more. As well as items for the home Abodes offer some beautiful handmade gifts, from scented candles, soaps and facial serum, all made from natural products to cards, books, jewellery, paperweights, or fun and inspirational plaques which always make people smile including ‘Time to drink champagne and dance on the table’ or ‘I’m not bossy I just have better ideas.’ Abodes is constantly striving to find new suppliers and visit a number of trade shows each year to keep abreast of the best producers

es. ABODES: Offering bespoke piec

and unique products. In February this year they visited Frankfurt and last week were in Madrid so orders from there will be arriving later in October. Make sure you don’t miss the latest items! They look forward to meeting you in their shop where you will find them kind, friendly and helpful. Here is a review from a happy customer: “Love this little shop. Quality, quirky and different, lovely, understanding, helpful and friendly, one of my favourite shops in Mojacar and they remember your name; how good is that?” It is always best to visit the shop on Mojacar Playa, but if you don’t have time you can check out products posted regularly to their Facebook page @inspiringabodes, email info@abodes.es or telephone or text (00 34) 697 778 355. They hope to see you soon. Abodes is located on Mojacar Playa between Café Koi and Café 353, just a couple of doors down from Spanish Property Choice.

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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FEATURE

Flashback

Children are not the confused ones

Issue1680

A reader gives the other side of the argument in response to a recent column by EWN columnist Leapy Lee.

14 - 20 September 2017

AS much as Leapy Lee is up to here with his so called ‘Gender bender bull,’ a lot of people are up to here with reading about his ignorance and I personally feel, as do many others, that he maybe needs a bit of re-educating. After reading an article he wrote a few weeks ago about gays, lesbians and transgenders, I was left in disbelief how someone in this day and age actually still thinks like this. I appreciate that he is from a whole different generation than I am, and although claiming to be ‘liberal minded’ having grown up in the 60’s, I think his attitude shows otherwise. I was assured by the EWN that it is only his personal opinion and not those of the paper, but also 68 per cent of their readers feel the same way. But do they realise the harm that this kind of attitude can do? I think not.

My teenage children have gay friends and think nothing of it I understand that 50 years ago it was taught that being gay or transgender was wrong. But come on, that was 50 years ago. And do you think that this stopped people being gay? Or stopped how they felt? Of course not. Being gay or transgender is not a trend, it’s not something people do because it’s fashionable. People realise from a very young age whom they are attracted to. It’s still a shame that a lot of gay teenagers don’t ‘come out’ because they are afraid of the

Photo by John Lewis

reactions of their families, but I ask myself, don’t you know your children? Don’t you have a relationship with them where they can feel they can be just who they want to be without the fear of rejection? I know many people who’s parents can’t accept that their son or daughter is gay, and I find that very sad. My teenage children have friends that are gay and think nothing of it. My point is that finally people are realising it is ‘normal’ and parents of my generation don’t bat an eyelid when their child is gay. That is just how it should be. I am glad that Leapy says he has managed to come to terms with gay people adopting children, having seen some disastrous and tragic outcomes for children living with same sex parents. I would like to have known what those disasters were. Worse than the abuse that unfortunately goes on in so many homes with heterosexual parents?

Because it was taught 50 years ago it doesn’t make it right

Isn’t the idea of ‘Christianity’ to love each other? Then of course comes the topic of transgender. Feeling trapped inside the wrong body. You cannot comment on it really, unless you know how it feels. Maybe just listen, and instead of brushing it aside and saying ‘what a load of gender bender bull’ actually imagine how these children, teenagers and adults feel. They are forced into being someone they are not. The child who had the full support from his parents and school who dressed as a girl, great, it couldn’t be better, until the good ‘Christian’ parents of other children removed their children from that school? What are you teaching your children? To not accept people for who they are? Isn’t the idea of ‘Christianity’ to love each other? And they don’t have a problem with Jesus wearing a dress. If a girl dresses like a boy, she’s a tom boy, nobody seems to have a problem with that, but a boy can’t want to dress as a girl?? I thought what we are meant to be teaching children today is equal rights. Why do girls and boys have different uniforms at school if they are all the same? Being gay or transgender can be a

ugly, so worthless that they cut themselves, burn themselves, starve themselves, hurt themselves, to relieve the pain, sometimes because they think they deserve it. This happens a lot amongst gay and transgender teens and young adults. Didn’t the older generation fight for freedom in the war? It’s what I was taught at school. Surely that means the right to be whomever you chose? I don’t understand why it bothers anyone else what gender somebody wants to be. If a girl feels more like a boy and dresses as such then so what? And if a boy dresses as a girl, so what? Why does anybody else care? Why does it affect my child at school if the boy in the chair next to him decides he wants to be a girl? It doesn’t. It’s not about being genderless, it’s about not being labelled.

become the bullies. The children who ridicule gay teens, who drive them to self-harming, and often suicide.

NO PINK OR BLUE: John Lewis recently introduced gender neutral childrens’ clothing. very hard thing to go through, but only because of the reaction of the people around them. The fear of not being accepted. I have done some research, spoken to a lot of people, wondering if this really is how 68 per cent of people think. I’ve asked their opinions and I have had pretty honest answers. From the people aged 70 and above, they squirm a bit when asked, knowing they shouldn’t be anti-gay but it was drummed into them when they were young. I understand this, but I think that instead of saying ‘You are right, it’s bull’ as Leapy Lee has done, they need to understand that their attitudes can be harmful. They pass on their teachings and they produce children who

I was surprised at the amount of people who self-harm Self-harming is happening a lot, and it was something I never really knew much about. My life as a child and adolescent was happy, quite boring compared to a lot of people I have since met. I had no issues with anything, I had self-confidence, and luckily nothing traumatic had ever happened to me. But I have since met a lot of people who unfortunately have had abuse, or trauma in their lives, and I was surprised at the amount of people who self-harm. For those of you who don’t know what self-harming is, as I am sure there are a lot of people who don’t even know it goes on, it’s when someone is made to feel so low, so unwanted, so

So please, don’t label people, don’t judge them by the narrow-minded views so many of you have had drummed into you as a child. Just because it was taught to you 50 years ago it doesn’t make it right, any more than the teachings of Hitler or Franco were right. So Leapy why not try being a bit compassionate, or look into things before you judge everyone? You obviously have no idea to the harm you can be doing and how hurtful and disrespectful your words can be. So all I ask of everyone is to accept people for who they are, because you have no idea what anyone is going through just trying to be who they really are.

LEAPY LEE: The EWN Weekly columnist with views that frequently stir opinion remains the No 1 favourite with many readers.

E W N 12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de AlmerÃa

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FEATURE

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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Advertising feature

How Neater Heaters lead the way THE last year has seen an upturn in the property market, with many people visiting Spain to renovate their property. Whether they are refurbishing them as a holiday home, rental business venture, or even their new permanent home, it is evident that people can see a brighter future ahead. Tony and Richard at Neater Heater have been a godsend to those who need a solution to enhance their homes either for their own economical but stylish living, or even for those wishing to attract potential tenants. Neater Heaters are designed to set up a more efficient way of heating the home so that, when compared to most other electric heaters, monthly bills can be reduced, which is music to anybody’s ears. The difference between a

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heats up. With Neater Heaters, however, the air is drawn into the heater, where it is in direct contact with a very efficient element causing the air to heat up extremely rapidly. You save time and money as your room is heated within minutes at a lower energy cost. Neater Heaters are designed and built in Norway and Turkey, where these stylish heaters are hailed as the first choice for quality and performance. There are many designs

that are on offer which can be incorporated into your room’s colour pallet and style. Neater Heaters will not restrict your furniture layout either, as there are so many options that you can work with if space is tight, including mounting the heater on factory designed feet if wall space is limited. Choosing your requirements in the autumn also means that you have the full range to choose from, rather than suffering disappointment later in the year.

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

Have you travelled before? Mike Senker

In my opinion Views of a Grumpy Old Man LAST week I mentioned Monarch running out of food. Well now they have gone skint and, of course, I had flights booked with them for Christmas. As I paid with a debit card I have probably lost my money, which is bad enough, but, of course, when I have gone to rebook all the other airlines have doubled their price. Yeah, yeah, I know - supply and demand. I flew with Virgin Atlantic to and from the USA and I have to say they are a fantastic company to fly with. The only thing I wondered was why, when fitting out their female cabin crew, do they hear ‘I’m a size 10’ when she’s obviously said ‘I’m a size 14’? They all looked a little uncomfortable to me. I decided to fly into Gibraltar on the way back so I didn’t have to leave Heathrow on my return which meant I could stay in the same terminal and not have the extra expense of going to another airport. I had only two hours from landing from the USA to catch my next flight and I couldn’t check my luggage all the way through to Gib. All was going well until I got to security

and my bag went on the other side of the glass which meant it had to be double checked, which is fine. The problem was there were only two security people. One was dealing with the left hand side queue and one was dealing with the right hand side. The lady in front of me had a back pack, a handbag and a carry-on bag and the officer decided to go through the whole lot which took 40 minutes. Half way through I looked at her and said, ‘Have you actually ever travelled before?’ She had water, three or four bags of cosmetics and gawd knows what else. I was getting very grumpy and asked, ‘Why does this have to be done here? Why isn’t she taken to one side so as to not hold everybody else up? After all, she’s the problem, not us!’ The security officer’s random comment to me was that only last week he had found six bullets in someone’s hand luggage. That, of course, didn’t answer my question at all. There should be three or four officers there. Two to do the general security and two to do the awkward stuff, so it keeps it all flowing. Finally, BA, why, oh why do you make everyone pay for refreshments with credit cards? Everybody having to put pin numbers in for a two quid transaction! It’s a joke! columnists@euroweeklynews.com

Email me: mikesenker@gmail.com

www.euroweeklynews.com

FEATURE

LEGALLY SPEAKING Buying a new car - your rights AS part of a new 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.

NEW CARS: Conditions will vary according to the manufacturer. WHEN you purchase a new car from a dealer, you have a certain level of peace of mind accompanying your purchase. New cars are covered by a legal guarantee of two years without a mileage limit, whereas the manufacturer has to take care of the faults and breakdowns that have arisen with the car, so long as they are not caused by misuse, lack of maintenance or wear. Factory defects are also covered by the legal guarantee, but in this case the claim must be made during the first six months from the date of delivery of the vehicle. After that time it is necessary to prove that the defect is actually caused at the manufacture stage and, for that, an expert report must be presented to prove it. The Madrid-based Asociación Madrileña de Distribuidores de Automóviles (AMDA), also wants to advise owners that you also have consumer rights if you have to visit the workshop for these repairs. In the event that the vehicle suffers a fault covered by the warranty, the time spent in the

workshop for repair will not count as part of the warranty period and that time will be added to the original date of termination of the warranty. It is necessary to request a receipt with the date of delivery and return of the vehicle, together with the repair report. The buyer not only has rights when buying a car, but work carried out in authorised mechanic’s workshops are guaranteed, whether it is a maintenance check or a repair. It is however necessary to differentiate between two situations: when it is a repair covered by the legal guarantee, in this case the period of cover is six months; If it is a repair outside the warranty period, the workshop will be responsible for its work for three months or 2,000 kilometres. Many manufacturers offer the option to optionally expand the warranty period. The conditions vary according to the manufacturer, the length of time, mileage, and what is covered. Therefore, the conditions must be read carefully.

For more news and articles visit www.n332.es or search N332 on Facebook.

Can they ban dogs? In our community, we have always had a set of ‘Internal Regulations of the Community of Owners’ which are generally adhered to. However, a few owners have now brought dogs into the community. Our Internal Regulations state that, ‘No animals of any kind, except for guide dogs, Perhaps I was too optimistic. First, if your Internal Regulations do not form part of the origina l Sta tute s o f your community, but were passed later, then you do not have legal ground for

may be kept in any part of the Complex.’ Our administrator accepts the rule but says that it would not be possible to enforce it. My copy of your book ‘You & the Law in Spain’ is quite clear that, if our regulations say No Dogs, then our community can enforce this. Can you confirm? D W (Costa del Sol)

David Searl You and the Law in Spain

banning dogs. If the regulations indeed appear in the original Statutes, you

have legal grounds, but how do you enforce them? You wi l l have t o go t o court and obtain a court order for the owner to remove his dog. If he does not , he wi l l be hel d i n contempt of court.

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

E W N 12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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Quick

Across 1 Sides reported swarms (5) 4 Sea bird can be cooked slowly (7) 8 They help make curls and waves (7) 9 The belief is that I am God returning (5) 10 They've been held by the innkeeper for a long time (8) 11 Not much of a fall? (4) 13 An American metal somewhere in Texas (6) 14 Nicked bundle of pound notes (6) 17 Prepare to leave the group (4) 19 To begin with I read revelation in Times' article naming the nuisance (8) 22 Brew some magic up pal (5) 23 Life jacket from same wet components (3,4) 24 Records the unmarried ones (7) 25 Spread mangled tapes (5)

opera (4) 6 Something refined brought back from Ragusa (5) 7 Late Greek god betraying no emotion (7) 12 Start playing new super kit (6,2) 13 Small glasses around at views (7) 15 The Parisian reads out editorials

Code Breaker

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION FACING PAGE

(7) 16 Public transport around park for vagrants (6) 18 Some of Al Capone's mob are chicken (5) 20 In court it heard about church tax (5) 21 Social sphere (4)

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 11 represents V and 19 represents R, so fill in V every time the figure 11 appears and R every time the figure 19 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.

CROSSWORD PAGE

Cryptic

Down 1 Set fire to a bit of toast or charcoal (5) 2 Listens, sort of, then joins up (7) 3 Written outline shows no care, is sloppy (8) 4 The coach, little Edward, is out of order (6) 5 A first-class lawyer in Verdi

TIME

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Across 1 Underground parts of plants (5) 3 Smears (7) 6 Public toilet in a military area (7) 8 Drinking chocolate (5) 10 Be in accord (5) 11 Graceful and stylish in appearance or manner (7) 14 Suitable for use as food (6) 15 Cubicles (6) 17 Wet slightly (7) 20 Relating to audible sound (5) 21 Form a critical opinion of (5) 22 Educational institution (7) 23 Adjudicator (7) 24 Lone-Star state (5)

English - Spanish

Across 1 Tablecloth (6) 4 Cerveza (4) 8 Queen (5) 9 Notice (warning) (5) 10 Courgette (9) 14 Mejilla (5) 15 Beret (5)

Down 1 Let go free (7) 2 Grab hold of (5) 3 Strainer (5) 4 Brother of your father or mother (5) 5 Not full or plentiful (5) 7 Frightened badly (9) 9 Dare (9) 12 Fewer (4) 13 Being nothing more than specified (4) 16 Triumph (7) 17 Army officer (5) 18 Belonging to them (5) 19 Recess in a wall (5) 20 Separate into parts or portions (5) The clues are mixed, some clues are in Spanish and some are in English.

16 Buttonhole (of garment) (4) 17 August (6) Down 1 Girar (llave, manivela, volante) (4) 2 Spring (season) (9) 3/15 Bolsita de té (3,3)

5 Buildings (houses, offices etc) (9) 6 Tejado (4) 7 Cow (4) 11 Pregunta (4) 12 Leisure (4) 13 Hand (4) 15 See 3

OUT

LOTTERY UK NATIONAL LOTTERY

IRISH LOTTO

‘ SHE IS A NICE LOOKING PLANE, CHILDREN - BUT A BIT LIKE OUR PRIME MINISTER - WILL SHE STAY OR WILL SHE GO? ’

Fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the ‘clue’ on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once.

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 T) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

TARGET: • Average: 8 • Good: 11

Saturday October 07

YOUR STARS

BONUS BALL

Nonagram

BONUS BALL

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) There is a wonderful enthusiasm about you at the moment. Seeing the reaction of others to you, it occurs that you should have taken this attitude before. Therefore, make a resolution to put more energy into everything that you do.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

EURO MILLIONS Tuesday October 03

BONUS BALL

• Very good: 16 • Excellent: 21

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

1 5

cede cedi cere cert cite cred dice epic iced rice ceded cered cider cited citer creed creep crepe crept cried diced dicer edict erect piece price recti riced terce trice credit creped deceit decide deicer depict direct pieced pierce priced recipe recite tierce triced decider decried pierced predict receipt recited credited decrepit depicted directed PREDICTED

Friday October 06

BONUS BALL

Sudoku LA PRIMITIVA

Something new which you started in recent weeks becomes more than a passing interest. Although it may be surprising to you, it is owing to a predictable situation. In opening your mind, you also seem to have opened your heart. Many people do that at this time of the year and so you are not alone.

ARIES (March 21 - April 20) Being totally inspired this week, you could be tempted to let enthusiasm run away with you. It is a lovely feeling, like being a child again. Be sure to have fun, but do keep as much money in your pocket as possible.

Saturday October 07

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.

BONUS BALL

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

22 4

EL GORDO DE LA PRIMITIVA Sunday October 08

13 37

23 54

BONUS BALL

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

CRYPTIC

QUICK

Across:

1 Passage, 5 Tenor, 8 Geese, 9 Spartan, 10 Auto, 11 Relegate, 13 Torrid, 15 Stills, 18 Absorbed, 19 Yarn, 22 Gristle, 23 Cadre, 24 Treks, 25 Ladders.

1 Suburbs, 5 Comic, 8 Insular, 9 Again, 10 False, 11 Combine, 12 Pester, 14 Laughs, 17 Tractor, 19 Start, 22 Extra, 23 Jealous, 24 Turns, 25 Nunnery.

Down:

1 Syrup, 4 Toser, 7 Balonmano, 8 Crocodile, 12 Regularly, 14 Atras, 15 Study. Down: 1 Swim, 2 Rib, 3 Peliculas, 4 Tenedores, 5 Small, 6 Rios, 9 Regar, 10 Grua, 11 Pray, 13 You.

1 Pageant, 2 Spent, 3 Abed, 4 Easter, 5 Travesty, 6 Netball, 7 Range, 12 Migrates, 14 Respite, 16 Sonnets, 17 Repeal, 18 Argot, 20 Addle, 21 Acid.

FOR NEXT 7 DAYS

Saturday October 07

Kakuro

EWN

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VIEW ON LIFE

MADDOCKS’

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

www.euroweeklynews.com

1 Stiff, 2 Basil, 3 Relieve, 4 Strict, 5 Claim, 6 Moaning, 7 Confess, 12 Patient, 13 Scatter, 15 Abstain, 16 Trojan, 18 Traps, 20 Above, 21 Tasty.

ENGLISH-SPANISH

CODE BREAKER

KAKURO

TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) There will be a certain amount of discussion regarding holiday plans. You know what you want but how do you persuade others? It's quite easy really. All you have to do is to get someone else to suggest a certain place. You then agree and it looks like their idea.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) You are so sharp that there is a danger you will cut yourself! Seriously, though, try not to appear pompous over a certain matter. You may be right and you may be clever, but smarty pants are rarely popular. Some of that sharpness gets things going for you in the love department, though.

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) With everyone busy round you, the chance may be taken to show what you are capable of. Instead of watching someone make a pig's ear of a work project, offer to help. It's important, though, to let them think any bright ideas were theirs. Giving praise now will mean it coming back to you ten-fold. Be aware that a close friend is in a delicate frame of mind.

LEO (July 24 - August 23) A business partnership takes on a romantic tinge this week. It is possible that the other party sees this as more significant than you. To avoid problems later it would be best to let them do all the running. Unless, of course, you are determined to run yourself. With a lot of excitement in the air it is possible for you to show just what fun you can be. Enjoy!

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Your outgoing attitude is spot on. Some may say you are a little crazy, the way you go for things. Each person has their own way and yours can be quite unique but that certainly does not make it wrong. People who make the world around us that little bit more colourful are gems.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Some legal matters need your attention. That's not really what you want at this time of the year. A decision has to be made and it needs a fine balance. Asking others may just confuse matters, so only seek expert advice. At the end of the day, you will know what is both best and acceptable. An attempt to bring romance into your life may be more successful than you think.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) A last-minute invitation turns out to be just the ticket in more ways than one. An invitation to join a holiday may be proffered. This is unusual, certainly, but keep an open mind. Your company is clearly well appreciated so why not make that a point of pride? Let's face it, who is best equipped to blow your trumpet?

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21) Someone you mistrust offers to add to your celebrations. Why not call a truce? We both know that little long term will come out of it, but who cares? Sometimes, it is better to share one good moment with someone than none at all.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) As you are in the limelight, it comes as no surprise that admiration comes your way. What may surprise you, however, is the direction it comes from. Who would have thought that such a situation would arise?

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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OPINION & COMMENT

YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE - YOUR OPINION Letters should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments on our website: www.euroweeklynews.com

Views expressed and opinions given are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements.

Airport moaner driven to distraction I THINK Grumpy Expat from Coin must have been totally confused with his visit to Malaga Airport. Yes it can be difficult to know where you’re going as there are so many signs for different car parks. Since he ‘ended up in the ‘new’ short term car park by accident’ he obviously didn’t know which car park he was looking for. The new space across from arrivals is convenient for collecting people and in fact is quite a good short cut to departures via the lifts and thus avoiding the drop-off car park and the dreaded 16 minutes, one second over and it’s €2.63!!! I have used the new arrivals car park several times over the summer months collecting family and on average paid €1.60 for around 10 minutes. In fact my last visit I waited 25 minutes for my brother and that cost me €3.25! R G Waugh, Fuengirola

HAVE YOUR SAY

It’s illegal

Double trouble REFERENCE your story on page 35 of the Costa Blanca North edition issue 1683: I am livid! Subsidising the day trippers to Granadella is a total abuse by the council of citizens’ IBI payments, and will surely make Costa Nova residents even angrier. I understand from a friend that attended that council meeting that the councillor responsible said it had cost €33,000, far less than the figure you quoted! Manipulation of figures for political means? If it is repeated the council

I REALLY fail to understand all the hand-wringing over the Catalan Independence Referendum. It is against Spanish law and should not therefore be recognised. Time for PM Rajoy to show what he is made of! Chris Perkins, Mijas

Sick as a dog LA GRANADELLA: Free park and ride a disgrace? MUST charge for the service. If the Spanish won’t pay it then there will be less of a problem down there. If the businesses object, then they must pay for the service. On another matter, driving down to the Arenal today there

All letters by email or post should carry the writer’s address, NIE and contact number though only the name and town will be published.

were police people at crossings for the children going to school. Two jumped out in front of me from the shadows and I only just saw them in time. They must wear ‘hi vis’ jackets for this job! John Price, Javea

Readers who have missed correspondence can see all letters - which can be edited before publication - posted on: www.euroweeklynews.com.

Cataluña to ‘declare independence’ CATALAN authorities have announced a landslide ‘yes’ vote in Sunday’s illegal referendum. Why is no one talking about the irregularities during this ‘referendum?’ Why were the boxes full of votes before arriving at the polls? How is it possible that a village of 700 people voted 2,000 times.... That was one of the reasons this was declared illegal as it was not regulated. The percentage is also wrong as the Catalonians that didn’t agree with the referendum didn’t vote. Emilia

They had a legal referendum not so long ago and the people voted to stay part of Spain. So if politicians don't get the vote they want they can resort to illegal tactics. I'm not condoning the violence in any way. Barbara Jago

Five dead in multi-vehicle crash Dreadfully sorry for the families of the victims who have died. Vehicles are travelling far too fast and too close with not enough stopping distances! Wendy Nerding

Comments from EWN online Terrible news...RIP to the people who lost their life n hopefully everyone else involved will pull through. Maria Hicklin Terrible news, I was on that motorway yesterday afternoon. Daniel O'Sullivan

End of my rainbow (Leapy Lee) HI kids, This is your trendy Dad telling you how much I love you and how much I enjoyed speaking to you all at my recent appearance at Glastonbury. Ol’ Little Arrows has now flipped completely onto his Bside! Utter tripe from a fantasist who knows nothing about the real Jeremy Corbyn - only the lies and rubbish in the UK gutter press. Just watch Leapy as your favourite party implodes this weekend and sacks the PM - again! Sam B

US man killed in Barcelona’s family to sue THE daughters of a Californian man killed in the terror attack on Las Ramblas, Barcelona have filed a law suit against three social media firms 'for aiding, abetting and knowingly providing support and resources' to a terror group. They probably won’t win but it will definitely raise a huge flag for the creator of social media. If Facebook for example can catch a photograph of a woman breastfeeding and disable the account for content, I am pretty sure they are capable of filtering terrorist sites as well. They may at least step up to the plate a bit more with this warning to be held accountable. Rhea Rouw I think the family know they probably can’t beat big corporate lawyers, but at least they have drawn attention to how weak FB are. They seem to let any criminal and terrorist hoods on to mix with decent people. Gangsters using Facebook to sell stolen goods and counterfeit goods. But its when you open a page and some big terrorist jumps out at you. Robert B Johnston

YOUR piece on the 112 Carlota Galgos dog sanctuary (EWN Costa del Sol issue 1683) really hit the nail on the head with regard to hunting dog cruelty in Spain. Why don’t the government do something about these barbaric practices? Jill Jones, Estepona

Leapy again I DID say in my previous letter that I would not be writing again because of this man’s extreme racist views, but I thought his latest comments on Jeremy Corbyn need to be put into context. There are roughly 200 countries in the world of which only nine have nuclear weapons. No Southern Hemisphere nation has them, and among those that do 95 per cent are in the hands of Trump and Putin. Anyone with any semblance of common sense can see that any of the remaining seven would be annihilated from the face of the earth if they ever dared to use them! Ray Osborne, Los Alcazares

THERE he was again, prattling on about rainbows, Corbyn and Michael Eavis. He enlightened us on our nuclear defence and how Corbyn would rid us of this and stick flowers down the barrels of enemy soldiers. Well Mr Lee, let me remind you of one of the first rules of national security and that’s to protect your leader! The lapse in security at the Tory Party conference was scandalous. When someone handed her a P45, allegedly from the parties’ full time jester Boris!! With all the major security scares of late they let someone within spitting distance, in the middle of a speech, in a party conference. If the P45 had been a gun, knife or hand grenade. Slack!! Philip, San Fulgencio

HEALTH BEAUTY

Costa de Almería

12 - 18 October 2017

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Retail therapy with MACS CHARITY shops have long since shed their reputation of selling musty and dusty clothes, unwanted bric-abrac and general ‘tat’. These days they are the favourite haunts of celebrities and A-listers looking for that special, quirky bargain while giving back to the community. Australian singer and actress, Kylie Minogue, is often seen browsing in charity shops in London, while Helen Mirren is renowned for buying items on the way to the airport, wearing them while travelling and then dropping them off at another charity shop on her return. Many other well-known personalities who may not choose to wear second-hand clothes are generously donating items they no longer want, with some stores actually labelling the goods as ‘once owned by said celebrity.’ While Almeria may not exactly be brimming with A-listers, charity

WHILE the typical urge following a stressful day is to go and blow off some steam, not everyone immediately thinks of hitting the gym. Although long baths and meditation are also great ways to help you unwind, exercise has long been proven to release mood-boosting endorphins and will help get you in

shops in the area have certainly upped their game, and the MACS (Mojacar Area Cancer Support) shops seem to be leading the way. The shops are one of the main sources of generating money for the organisation, and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure they appeal to a growing number of customers. Just like a regular retail outlet, the shop layout needs to be well thoughtthrough, with attractive displays and sections relating to different products. Clothes are some of the most bought items from the shops and the volunteers are well aware of the importance of displaying the items in an appealing way, making it easy for customers to browse and find that perfect outfit! For the MACS shops which have windows, lots of time and effort is spent dressing the window with colour coordinated precision to entice passers-by. If you haven’t yet visited one of the

shape at the same time. So the next time you feel the world is getting you down, use some of that frustration to help you achieve a new exercise goal and you’ll kill two birds with one stone. However, not all workouts were created equal and there are some that are better than others for tackling stress in

MACS SHOPS: Find a quirky bargain or volunteer your time. MACS shops, now is the perfect time. There are plenty of autumn bargains to be had and it’s never too early to start your Christmas shopping! At this time of year many people swap their summer and winter wardrobes around. They say that

anything you haven’t worn in the last year, you are not likely to wear again so why not have a clear out and donate those unwanted clothes to a great cause. If you’ve got some time on your hands, enjoy meeting people and like

Work it out particular. Yoga usually tops the list as it combines mind and body exercises which focus specifically on relaxation. Not only does it help you to zone out but also reduces mus-

cular tension and spasms that can build up from stress. If yoga’s not your thing, maybe try tai chi instead. The ancient martial art form is performed through a series of

to get stuck in, MACS is currently recruiting volunteers for all shops, in particular, the newest of the chain, at Las Buganvillas. This recently launched shop is open in the mornings and also in the evenings and new volunteers are urgently needed to help establish this excellent outlet on the local retail map. MACS is looking to roll out evening opening in all their shops, which will give volunteers a chance for even more flexibility in their commitment. MACS volunteers are men and women of all ages and from different backgrounds, all with the same fabulous dedication in donating their time. If you want to help support this local charity in any way, contact MACS on 634 328 334 or email macscancersupport@live.co.uk. The MACS team looks forward to hearing from you.

movements which aim to connect mind and body - promoting a sense of calm and serenity at the same time. Although peaceful in nature, tai chi is still a great workout as it engages your entire body while helping you to stay in the moment. Kickboxing is also an effective way of getting rid of ten-

sion. What better way to shake off the day’s problems than by punching and kicking them out of your system? As the movements are performed with discipline, it promotes staying in control but can also be a rigorous workout at the same time. It also improves flexibility, balance and coordination.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

What’s in a full English really? By Kat Ashton SCIENTISTS have devised a new full English breakfast to more accurately reflect the DNA of the average Brit. Researchers from Londonbased firm AncestryDNA found that the average Englishman is actually only 37 per cent British when it comes to genetics. To give an accurate portrayal of what this looks like, scientists made a few changes to the ingredients of a typical English breakfast and have ditched bacon and baked beans for Iberico pork and French cassoulet. They also suggest that traditional fried eggs should be replaced with Scandanavian baked eggs, hash browns should be switched with Irish potato farls and fried tomatoes should be swapped for Italian mozzarella-stuffed tomatoes. According to AncestryDNA, the average Brit’s DNA actually con-

GOOD STUFF: Not quite as traditional, but equally delicious! tains genes from 26 regions around the world, including: - 20.5 per cent Western European

(hence the French cassoulet beans) - 20.3 per cent Irish - 9.5 per cent Scandinavian

- 3 per cent Iberian - 2 per cent Italian / Greek The scientists from AncestryDNA

used a saliva sample to test the genes of people from across the UK. They found Yorkshire folk to have the most Anglo-Saxon ancestry, with 41 per cent, while London was proven to be the most ethnically diverse region in the UK. The East Midlands were revealed to have the most Scandinavian blood (10.37 per cent) as well as the most Eastern European (2.4 per cent) while those from the east of England have the most Italian/Greek (2.5 per cent). Many of the new additions to the full English are also healthier, as well as being more reflective of your true heritage, as baked eggs are lower in saturated fat than fried and cassoulet beans have much fewer added flavours and preservatives when made from scratch.

Fountain of youth WHILE it is easy to remember to reach for a glass of water on a hot day or after a strenuous workout, a lot of people miss the mark when it come to drinking the recommended two litres a day. Our bodies need water to function efficiently as it regulates body temperature, delivers nutrients to our organs and helps to prevent infections by getting rid of toxins. Your body will tell you if you’re dehydrated, but these signs can be easy to miss - especially if you live a hectic lifestyle. Common signs of dehydration include fatigue, thirst, dizziness and even confusion.

LIQUID DIET: Try to set a daily water goal and stick to it. A lot of people also suffer from headaches when they are dehydrated for a prolonged period of time and skin can also start to dry out and become flaky. There are many benefits to

drinking lots of water. Research has shown it can give you more energy, make you stronger and improve your reflexes. It has also been proven to have a significant impact on the brain as it can boost concentration, memory and even your mood. As dehydration can cause headaches and fatigue, you’re bound to feel better throughout the day if you have a bottle of water on hand. Drinking water has been shown to help clear up spots and can even make you look younger. As up to 30 per cent of our skin is water, it needs regular tops-ups to help it.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Ask The Doctor

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Migraine pain

NATURAL NAILS: Stripped back nail care products are all the rage.

SPECIALIST: Doctor Luis Perez Belmonte. WHAT causes migraines? A migraine is caused by abnormal brain activity, which can be triggered by many factors. However, the exact chain of events remains unclear. The changes affect bloodflow in the brain and surrounding tissues. Migraines can also be triggered by any of the following: caffeine withdrawal, changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle, the use of birth control pills, changes in sleep patterns, alcohol, exercise or other physical stress, loud noises or bright lights, fasting, certain scents and perfumes, smoking or exposure to smoke, stress and anxiety. Certain foods can also trigger migraines. The most common are: chocolate, dairy products, certain cheeses, foods containing tyramine such as red wine, mature cheese, smoked fish, chicken liver, figs, certain beans, fruits (avocado, bananas, citrus fruits ), meats containing nitrates (bacon, hotdogs, salami, cured meats), onions, peanuts and other nuts and seeds and processed, fermented, pickled or marinated foods. Can they be prevented? You can take measures

such as avoiding all circumstances and foods that cause migraines, which substantially reduces the likelihood of an episode. Early identification of the signs that suggest an episode is starting, and taking appropriate measures are the best ways to prevent progression. What can be done to lessen the pain? There is no specific cure for migraine headaches. The goal is to treat the symptoms of migraines immediately and prevent migraines by avoiding or altering things that can trigger them. If an episode persists, despite making efforts to combat it, then you should rest and take painkillers and muscle relaxants. Sometimes you can use certain drugs that can block the episodes in their tracks, which must be prescribed by a doctor. Can they be a sign of a more serious disease or condition? Overall, migraines are usually benign and produce no lasting side effects. However, it is important to consult a medical specialist when the symptoms appear, and to get regular check-ups.

If you have any questions for Dr Perez Belmonte, please send them to: jefemedico@helicopterossanitarios.com

THE natural cosmetic trend is now branching out into the nail industry. Many nail care brands have brought out products that not only help to keep your fingertips up to date with the latest colour trends, but promote nail health as well. In-demand skincare ingredients, such as argan oil and soy, are becoming more common in nail care products as consumers recognise them for their rich nutritional value and health-promoting benefits. To address the growing concern about the impact of environmental pollution on the body, beauty giant NailsInc has launched a new polish that contains charcoal which helps to protect nails from external toxins. Like many companies in the beauty industry, nail brands are conscious about overusing chemicals in their products, so are turning to diet-inspired ingredients instead. Superfoods such as kale, carrots, turmeric and almonds are all thought to be beneficial for nail health and have been creeping into new products over the last few months. Mintel’s research suggest that there is more of a demand for ‘gentle’ nail polish remover, as many on the market are harsh on nails and strip them of their outer layers. Several brands have launched ‘vegan’ alternatives which are made entirely from natural ingredients and help keep nails strong and healthy. Switching your nail products for health-conscious alternatives could actually make

Nailing it all the difference as an increasing number of studies have also revealed that prolonged periods of exposure to chemical fumes from varnish-

es and other tonics are linked to health conditions including respiratory problems and migraines. While these side effects are

most common among nail salon employees who are exposed to these chemicals every day, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

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Update on food, drink, entertainments, what’s on and weekly happenings

A big hairy evening BIG hair and a big beard make for a big act and Almeria will be hosting just that when Angel Stanich comes to town. He claims to have a voice that either horrifies or seduces and describes himself on his official website as a freak who is focused on his Bohemian wa y o f l i f e a n d th e music which he creates. His influences come from a variety of old-world cultures including literature, classic movies, old records, beat literature and just about anything that could be attributed to a hippy basking beneath the s un d u r i n g t h e su mme r o f love in the 1960’s. Stanich, who hails from Santander, has a number of albums and EPs under his belt already and spectators can expect plenty from his back catalogue as well as a few covers along the way. Be sure to listen out for his latest s ingle Ma t a m e C a m i o n (K ill me truck) which was released in September and has already proved a huge hit among his adoring fans. Currently touring the entirety of

Spain, his unique brand of madness-infused music will be making its way to th e M ad ch es te r C lub in N ic ola s Salmeron

Park in what is sure to be an intriguingly bizarre show with some classic s ounds born from his love of the peace-loving rhythms of a bygone, but far from forgotten, era. The show will take place on Saturday, November 4 at 11pm. Tickets are priced at €14 plus booking fees. A sell-out crowd is expected due to his popularity and organisers are advising that those wishing to attend buy their tickets in advance online or dire c t from the venue.

ROCK OUT: Stanich knows how to get the most out of his guitar.

Credit: Facebook/ Angel Stanich

SCENE

OCIAL

High on the hog A TWO-DAY motorcycle event is set to take place in Almeria. Cruising along the Spanish roads of Almeria beneath a clear sky and with only asphalt in sight is quite the treat for any motorcycle maniac, but add to that a band of leather-clad fellow rebels and several stops for food and drink followed by a big party in the evening and it will quite possibly serve as the perfect weekend for many. The fifth instalment of Concentracion Motera de Tabernas kicks off next Saturday and features a host of fun events for all hog enthusiasts. A cam pi ng zone i s available for those staying overnight and a one-day ticket costs €15 whilst a two-day pass is available for €25. Chrome warriors will get the chance to meet fellow enthusiasts and ride

wi t h each ot her al ong a num ber of di ff er ent routes. Cañas (small beers) and tapas are available on the trips whilst the Saturday ni ght f eat ur es a m uscl e show complete with music and a DJ. On Sunday there will be m or e r i des as wel l as a route through wild west filming locations where m any scenes f r om spaghetti westerns were shot. A stop will be made for snacks at Western Leone, a themed town dedicated to the cowboy films of the past complete with staff in full regalia of the period as wel l as t hem ed f ood and drinks. The Sunday night will feature live music and an awards presentation at the end. This fantastic weekend is hosted by the motorcycle club A2 Ruedas.

SOCIAL SCENE

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ONE of the worldâ€™s greatest guitar innovators is coming to Almeria. A man who fuses the fire of flamenco with the emotion of the Mediterranean, El Amir is set to flaunt his flawless skills at the Antonio de Torres Guitar Museum via his show Guitarra en Estado Puro. El Amir has a creative soul and his mind is a crucible of various breeds and cultures of sound which allows him to release and transmit powerful emotion via the strings of his guitar. He is a multi instrumentalist, composer, arranger, producer, speaker, teacher and musical director but stands out most as a flamenco artist due to his personality, maturity, sound and his own style. Prior to the concert, he will be offering a master class where he shares diverse knowledge about a number of instruments that he plays with sublime skills such as the fla-

Credit: Facebook/Flamenco for guitar players El Amir

Guitar in a pure state

MUSICAL MASTER: El Amir will share his knowledge in Almeria.

menco guitar, the Arab lute, the Greek buzuki and the Turkish saz. This special class is not solely for musicians and guitarists, it is in fact open to anyone who has an interest in learning about what is beyond mere technique. The class will delve into cultural legacy, musical concepts and how to apply them to instruments as El Amir will demonstrate that the music has to communicate and be emotionally stirring to the listener. Questions are encouraged and El Amir will endeavour to answer them. Entry for the event is completely free and those interested can register via email by sending a message with the subject line master class el amir along with their full name and contact telephone number to info@almeriacultura.com. Places are limited and the show takes place on Saturday, October 21 at 6pm.

Family fun with Pulcinella A MUSICAL tale for children is on its way to Almeria. Punch and Judy is famous worldwide but has its origins in Italy where it started with the big nosed, overweight, ugly hunchback, Pulcinella. Eating food and dancing are his two favourite things to do in the world,

even if he does not complete either of the actions with the most elegance. This family show tells his tale in the fashion of composer Igor Stravinski. It is directed by Michael Thomas and narrated by Ana Hernandez Sanchiz. The City Orchestra of Almeria, who

are celebrating their 15th anniversary, will provide the music and families attending the Apollo Theatre, on Rambla Obispo Orbera, are in for a real treat. Taking place on Sunday at 12pm, tickets are priced at â‚Ź12 and can be purchased from the theatre box office or online at almeriaculturaentradas.es.

12 - 18 October 2017 / Costa de Almería

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SOCIAL SCENE Almeriacultur a.com

ALMERIA has always maintained a historic tradition when it comes to guitars. Antonio de Torres of Almeria is regarded by many to be the godfather of guitars with the iconic style he gave them still being the standard in the vast majority of acoustic guitars produced today. Now, 200 years after his birth, a pioneering initiative will see people get to practise guitar construction in the city’s Guitar Museum as part of the School of Luteria programme. The councillor for the Department of Culture, Education and Tradition, Carlos Sanchez, made the announcement, he said: “With this school we want to offer regular courses of various levels of specialisation, aimed at forming and disseminating all kinds of knowledge related to guitar and instrument construction. “The student will construct the element which they have chosen, starting from pieces of raw wood. “They will draw their own plan and the templates, continuing the whole construction process following the traditional techniques of the guitarists and

Facebook/Cultura Almeria

Almeria guitar workshop

FIRST CUT: Work commences on a new guitar. lutiers of the country where the chosen instrument comes from. “When the instrument is finished, it will be varnished and fitted with pegs and strings.” Councillor and guitar builder, Carlos Gonzales, has been appointed as the coordinator of activities for these

Boogie in Blue THE Ibex Insurance Almeria offices are sponsoring the fifth Boogie in Blue to be held at the Oasis Tropical Hotel in Mojacar on November 25. All proceeds raised will go to MACS Cancer Support Group (www.macscancersupport.com) based in Mojacar and the fun will start at 11.30am with a rocking around the world theme.

courses which celebrate the bicentennial of Torres’ birth. He said: “It will begin at the end of October and is open to all levels of knowledge. “Spain is known worldwide for the construction of guitars, yet there is no professional training as there is in cabinetmaking or ceramics.

Danzad Damn A LA R G E c a s h priz e is offe re d to the w inne rs of a dance marathon during a time of e c onomic collapse and insufferable misery. A group of people of all a ge s a nd c onditions ta ke part, desperate to bag the money, but they must put to the test their physical and me nta l limits , in front of the a tte ntive look of the audience, the prese nc e of a ma s te r of c e re monie s a nd a mys te rious singer. The s how is s e t during the great depression and, with a blank sheet, a different performance can be enjoyed each night. Taking place on Friday, November 3 at Auditorio Municipal Maestro Padilla in Plaza de Alfredo Kraus, Almeria City, a memorable night is sure to be had by all.

“Hopefully in a year we can make an exhibition with all the instruments that have been built.” Sanchez expressed his hope for the new courses in relation to the history and tradition of Almeria, he said: “We hope that this new adventure will help Almeria as a whole to follow

GREAT ACOUSTICS: The museum is dedicated to the history of guitars. its close link with guitars and that visitors to the museum will be able to talk directly to the creators themselves whilst in the workshop which will act as an extra attraction to the museum.” Accredited professionals who want to teach this training course are encouraged to apply. The course will take place on Saturdays, from 10.30am to 1.30pm and from 5.00pm to 8.00pm as well as Sundays, from 10.30am to 1.30 pm. More information from the Guitar Museum, or calling 950 274 358.

LITTLE known outside Spain, Verdejo is one of the nation’s most cultivated white wines, though not to be confused with the similarly named Verdelho from Portugal. Verdejo is named after the green colour of the grapes VERDEJO: A wide choice. and is produced mainly in Rueda, a region about two hours north of served chilled and is better But anything labelled Madrid. drunk within two years of Rueda Verdejo has at least Thought to have been imbottling. 85 per cent Verdejo, with the ported around the 11th cenIt goes well with seafood remaining usually Sauvitury from North Africa, the and shellfish, pairs nicely gnon Blanc. grapes are with seafood paella and Crisp, better cultitapas, and additionally the aromatic vated in high acidity complements asparaand light altitude vinegus, olives or salads with bodied, yards in calvinaigrette dressings. Verdejo is careous and Alternatively, it can be an often comwell drained early evening snacking pared to soil, and are by Lorenzo wine. Sauvignon generally harPriced € 3 - 9, some laBlanc and vested at Barbareschi bels I have enjoyed include Pinot Grinight to conCorbata by Cuatro Rayas; gio. trol temperature. Jose Pariente; 12 Linajes by Expect a fresh acidity Fermented in stainless Garci Grande; Camina by with prevailing lemon, kiwi, steel, Verdejo labelled wine Coop Cristo de la Vega; pear and green apple, accontains at least 50 per cent Condesa de Leganza and companied by nutty overVerdejo grapes blended with Chozo Viejo by Prado Rey. tones. Sauvignon Blanc and Happy tasting! A dry wine, it should be Macabeo/Viura.

Cultivated pleasure

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ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS

Raffle a result! THE Animal Protection Society of Albox held another successful raffle this September. The organisation, which operates on donations and with a small team of dedicated volunteers, offers a monthly raffle for lucky winners to support their work rehoming, sponsoring and caring for cats and dogs. In September, Keith and Norma Prime were the winners of an Almeria Tenpin Bowling two-course Sunday lunch. Pam and Ian Dover came second winning a €10 voucher to Colin The Card with Jean and Mac MacDonald also winning a €10 voucher to Pricebusters. Proceeds from this month’s raffle generated €104 to help with APSA’s work. For the next monthly raffle in October, tickets can be purchased from the Amigos bowling centre, the APSA shop near Lepantos ferreteria and other local sellers. Prizes include vouchers to Pricebusters, Colin the Card, the Sol Yoga Centre, Eurowise and Amigos.

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ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS

Rail return plea DANCERS: Class with the birthday cake.

Class celebrates its 9th birthday MEMBERS of Eleanor and Gilly’s Monday afternoon line dance class, celebrated their ninth birthday recently at Maloan’s Bar in Albox. The party had a Western theme. Class members joined in wholeheartedly as they dressed up as cowboys and cowgirls, saloon girls and can-can dancers. During the afternoon there was a parade of all the members in their finery. The parade was judged by Smooth FM presenter Jack Savage. Three class members were awarded prizes. Pam Martin finished in third position, Erika Swift was the runner-up and the winner was Jan Harris. The winners received prizes of

chocolates and bottles of wine. Throughout the afternoon, the dances were set to music with a Western theme. There was also a raffle, as the group continues to support FACE - Fundraising in Arboleas, Caring for Everyone - for another year. The group has raised over €3,000 for FACE since its inception and the sum of €60 was raised at the party. This will be added to other monies already raised by the group and the total raised throughout this year will be presented to FACE after the New Year. For further information please ring 950 439 003.

A LOCAL association has requested the reintroduction of a railway line. The Association of Friends of the Ferrocarril de Baza has asked the promotors of the Mediterranean Railway Corridor to reopen the GuadixBaza-Almanzora-Lorca railway line and to include this route within the corridor itself. They have highlighted its socioeconomic profitability as well as the strategic nature of an infrastructure that can support a territory encompassing 11 regions, three provinces and two autonomous communities. It is considered very important to promote the return of the train to an area that has more than three decades of rail isolation.

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ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS

Rotten fruit IMPROVEMENTS: Works will improve road safety.

Safer roads ROADWORKS costing more than €52,000 are expected to be finished by July. A new 152-metre service route along the right banks of the A-334 road between Armuña de Almanzora and the industrial park of Tijola will act as the foundation to the Junta de Andalucia’s plan to improve road safety for the 46,000 vehicles that travel across it daily. The new service road will help prevent agricultural vehicles, which slow the flow of traffic considerably, from needing to use the main road.

THE Albox fruit market location controversy goes on. A letter has been sent by the Partido Popular (PP) to the town council, requesting that it remain in one place after a move has caused ongoing controversy, as previous reported in Euro Weekly News. The PP believe the market move has been made illegally and that the necessary requirements to change the market include the constitution of a trade commission and to make a report and bring it to plenary. They state that neither of these actions have been taken and have threatened to take legal action should matters not be returned to the status quo. The placement of the market was altered in a bid to improve security but all it has done so far is create political turmoil.

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Spain’s missing grand design SPAIN is lagging behind on its green homes commitments. Like all EU countries it is required to have a zero energy consumption plan in place for new homes by 2020. But while the likes of Denmark and Holland race ahead with ambitious strategies to build the sustainable homes of the future, Spain is either keeping its plans quiet or hasn't got any. After 2020 all new homes built across the EU are required to meet certain minimum eco-standards. Buildings must be almost entirely energy efficient, recycling energy they consume and using techniques including solar panels and geothermal facilities to generate their own power. For public buildings, such as government offices, the deadline is as early as next year. There are already dozens of residential buildings in Spain which don’t use up any more energy than they produce. Most are built by innovative architectural firms around Madrid. But Spanish regulations are still

PIPE DREAM: Green housing in Spain. people punished for producing too much energy? These questions are being tackled in major policy papers across the continent but are unremarked on by the Spanish government, which has only two years to form an entirely new property regime.

LUXURY: Madrid homes out of reach for local people.

Astronomical prices By Matthew Elliott THE average Madrid resident has to work eight years to buy a home in their city. The average home now costs 8.1 times the typical salary in the Spanish capital. Unsurprisingly they have to work harder than the average Spanish resident. Nationwide, people today would have to dedicate 7.6 years of their salary towards the purchase of a home. The price versus salary

Prices power on By Matthew Elliott

stuck in the fossil fuel ages and have made no provisions for the emergence of these next-generation, green homes. One important question is what happens to all the surplus energy produced. Does it go back to homeowners in the form of tax cuts? Or are

analysis comes from ST Valuations, which assumes people repaying a mortgage over 30 years with a 1.95 per cent interest rate. Experts advise that a home’s value be a maximum of five year’s salary in order to keep household finances well balanced. But in Spain the discrepancy between the optimal situation and real life is set to grow wider. House prices are rising far faster than salaries.

First time buyers, facing less flexible financial packages, are turning to the rental world in droves. In some of the capital’s most desirable addresses, prices now stand at €20,000 per square metre, more than 10 times the national average. On Calle General Castaños, Amancio Ortega, Spain’s richest man, and Rafael Nadal have pooled resources to build a block of the most expensive penthouse suites in Madrid.

WITH statistics from the third quarter of the year now in, Spain’s property market is showing fine form. The price of second-hand homes increased by an average of 1.3 per cent across the country from July to the end of September. The Spanish average for second-hand properties now stands at €1,716 per square metre. That represents a yearon-year increase of 4.8 per cent, the highest increase since May 2007. The data comes from Fotocasa’s real estate index. Head of analysis at Fotocasa, Beatriz Toribio, said: “the real estate sector is, this year, regis-

tering increases that we have not seen since the most spectacular years in the industry’s history,” referring to the 20042007 period. She stressed, however, that recent increases are partly so high because the market is bouncing back from a very low position. Also, price rises are becoming increasingly concentrated in urban and coastal areas. Spain’s historical peak in terms of pricing for secondhand homes was the €2,952 per square metre recorded in April 2007. That is more than €1,200 above the price today, representing a price drop of 41.9 per cent in the intervening 10 years.

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The truth about pool heating costs THERE are a lot of myths when it comes to pool heating costs. Because many people still think of gas, electrical or high-maintenance solar panel heating systems. However the only solution that is truly economical and fail-safe is the air source heat pump. It is widely used in domestic heating across Europe and requires only a small amount of electricity to extract heat from the air and transfer it to the water. A high quality heat pump ensures you can enjoy your pool 365 days of the year, getting the best out of your investment while swimming in water temperatures of 29°C for less than €2 per day. While the sun shines for free, most sunlight-based systems (such as solar mats or vacuum tubing panels) require you to leave the filter pump running continuously in order to reach proper temperatures, especially on less sunny days. This can boost your electric bill by €300 to €950 a year. Costs to operate gas

POOL HEATING: A high quality pump lets you enjoy your pool all year.

and electrical heaters can range from €300 to €500 per month and even more, depending on the fuel or electrical costs within your region. Air source heat pumps do not require direct sunlight, just the ambient Spanish air is sufficient, making this the n°1 solution even on cloudy days. Poolworx delivers efficient and professional Duratech heat pumps, using high quality heat exchangers made of PVC and titanium. For each kilowatt consumed by the heat pump, six kilowatts can be returned to the pool, which means five out of every six kilowatts are free! Poolworx finds that nine out of 10 visitors at their site, whom are looking to install a pool heating solution, choose a heat pump simply because of the dependability, low operating cost and eco-friendly character. Spanish-Costa customers confirm what the tests and research show; the total average cost amounts to €25-€90 per month, for an 8x4

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Teaching your dog new tricks David THE Dogman LISTEN to David on TRE on Saturdays 10am to 11am Costa del Sol (Gibraltar/Sotogrande) 98.7fm (San Roque to Calahonda) 91.9fm (Calahonda to Motril) 88.9fm, 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 columnists@ewnmediagroup.com

TEACH I NG y o u r d o g trick s is every dog owner’s dream, but you must start with basic obedience. Your dog should know the basic commands (sit, down, heel, stand, and come) before you attempt any type of trick training. Once you have th e se m a st e r e d, y o u ca n build on them with one of these three simple tricks. Begging This trick is best taught by first having your dog sit in a corner of the roo m wi t h y o u sta n d in g in front of him. This allows the corner to support your dog and keep him from

falling over. Using food, hold it above your dog and entice him to reach up and take it. Progress slowly, each time encouraging the dog to rise higher. Make sure your dog keeps his haunches on the ground. Use the treat to encourage the dog to shift his weight back over his haunches - it will help him keep his balance. Once your dog is balancing well in the corner, slowly move your dog outward and attempt the trick. Expect some regression when the dog loses the support of the walls and move slowly until the dog perfects it. Shaking hands Start with your dog in a sitting position. G iv in g th e v erba l c omma nd ‘shake,’ outstretch your right hand until it is a few inches in front of your dog’s right leg. Your outstretched hand is the non-verbal cue for this trick. U s in g y o u r le ft ha nd, ge ntly push or prod her right leg forward

HAVE FUN: Patience and praise bring the best results. until it rests in your right hand. Praise. A fte r pra c tis ing s e ve ra l s e s s ions , s low ly try to re duc e the amount of prompting until only the verbal or non-verbal command is needed.

Shaking the head Shaking the Head ‘No.’ Start with your dog in a sitting position. You will need to find something that will cause the dog to shake his head naturally. Blowing lightly

on the ear, tickling the ear with a feather, or lightly attaching a paper clip to one ear are some things that can work. You do not want to cause the dog pain. Once you have di scover ed a method that will cause your dog to shake his head, decide on a nonverbal and verbal cue you want to use. ‘Head’ along with shrugging the shoulders is a good idea. You do not want to use the word ‘no’ as you are likely to use this word when scolding the dog and this will lead to confusion. Using both cues, stimulate the dog to shake his head. Reward, even if it is only a small movement. Take a m om ent ar y br eak and then try again. Don’t repeat the trick more than five times in one session. Eventually, try signalling the dog with only the verbal or nonverbal cues as well as signalling t he dog f r om a st andi ng and a lying position. Sharing is caring!

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I would rather go to work on my hands and knees than drive there in a Ford Galaxy.” Some might say...

Simply the best Contenders for 2018 World Car of the Year by Matthew Elliott NOMINEES for the World Car Awards 2018 have now been announced. There are six different categories: design; luxury; performance; green; urban; and the overall World Car of the Year, which was won by Jaguar’s FPace for 2017. The ‘shortlist’ for 2018 includes 35 models. They come from all regions of the world. Interestingly the field is dominated by SUVs and 4x4s, with just one fully electric vehicle, the Nissan Leaf, in sight. There are 21 SUVs and 4x4s among the world’s top 35 contenders. Judges are motoring journalists from across the world and only cars released in the past year and which are available for purchase in either five countries or two continents can be consid-

HOT STUFF: Crowded field ahead of World Car Awards 2018. ered. After a few months of testing the field will be narrowed down before Christmas. All the usual suspects are included in the 35strong running for the World Car of the Year Award. BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen and Volvo are especially well-represented. Topping the luxury field are the Audi A8, Cayenne and Panamera from Porsche, and the Lexus LS. In the performance field, Audi

has its RS3 Sedan and RS5 Coupe in the running. They’ll be up against the BMW M5, Honda Civic, and Polo GTI. Green car contenders include the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai FE and BMW 530e iPerformance, a

plug-in hybrid in the executive class. In the crowded urban car field, the Ford Fiesta, Kia Picanto, Kia Stonic and Nissan Micra are vying for city supremacy. Seat

Ibiza, Suzuki Swift and Volkswagen Polo are also in the running. Finally the design field is looking like a face-off between the BMW i8 Roadster and Lamborghini Urus.

Motoring shorts

Bloodhound blur TWENTY years after setting the world landspeed record, Britain’s Bloodhound SSC is back in business. New footage has been released showing the supersonic, rocket-shaped car firing up its engine. Driver and former RAF pilot, Andy Green, is preparing to steer the Bloodhound to a record-breaking speed of 1,000mph. In 1997 Green captained the car to the current landspeed record of 763mph. The Bloodhound wields a EJ200 Eurofighter jet engine. It will be further boosted by a Nammo rocket cluster which will generate the face-bending speeds guided by an estimated 135,000 hp. Testing is still underway. Last week’s video, filmed in Cornwall, England, shows that the team are still working on their record-breaking goal. The team hope to hit 1,000mph on a track in South Africa next year.

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INNOVATIVE: Oliver’s new creation.

Ultimate meals on wheels A KITCHEN in a Land Rover is the latest culinary stunt from British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. The TV chef worked with top engineers from the company to create ‘the ultimate kitchen on wheels.’ Inside the Land Rover Discovery they’ve managed to cram a slow-cooker, icecream maker and barbecue. There’s an extendable dinner table that slides out from the

boot, olive oil dispenser, a miniature herb garden in the windows and even butter churners in the wheels. Other masterful touches include a toaster and jam packs in the centre console, a spice rack, and the conversion of the gear box into a salt and pepper grinder. Head of Land Rover ’s special engineering division, David Fairbairn, said, “we never imagined we’d be

Just ask Alexa

AN intelligent personal assistant will be riding along with all new BMW and Mini cars produced from 2018 onwards. Amazon Alexa can use voice interaction to answer questions and follow instructions. Devised by online delivery giant Amazon, it is already in use in many homes, where people tell Alexa to turn on lights, record television shows and other actions. Drivers will be able to ask Alexa to switch

asked to produce wheels that churn butter.” Oliver, also known as the Naked Chef, said the team ‘blew his mind’ with their creation. It’s not the only unusual adaptation the British brand has made lately. The Range Rover Sport 2018 model will come equipped with two three-pin plug sockets so people can charge domestic appliances, including laptops.

radio stations, check fuel levels, set map routes, check the weather, and countless other functions. Microphones are embedded in the car and the Alexa program will be used through the car ’s SIM card facility, meaning people won’t need to use their phones to activate it. Amazon Alexa is already present in some Ford and Nissan models. BMW is the first brand to pledge a total roll out of the technology in all its new cars.

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ROAD TEST by Nick Fletcher

Toyota RAV4 TOYOTA’S rugged RAV4 is well established in the SUV sales battle where it takes on very tough o p p o s i t i o n . T h e R AV 4 i s m o r e spacious than most, has the bonus of a full hybrid version, and its other ace card is the brand’s formidable reputation for durability and dependability. Price start at €28,246 (£24,765) and there is a good choice of petrol and diesel engines as well as the hybrid, and there is the option of 2WD or 4WD and manual or auto gearboxes. The latest model looks cool and sharp in a sector where visua l k u d o s i s a k e y f a c t o r, s o t h e RAV4 is off to a good start. Inside, it’s roomy and can take four tall adults with ease and a fifth at a squeeze, and the rear seats recline for extra comfort. At 501 litres the boot area is excellent and folding the rear seats can more than triple the

space to 1,633 litres. Seating is comfortable and supportive and there are plenty of stowage places around the cabin. The designers seem to have put all the e m p h a s i s o n f u n c t i o n a l i t y, f o r while the dials and controls are all user-friendly, the overall visual impact of the dashboard is rather muted and out of sorts with the charismatic exterior. My test model was an upperspec RAV4 Hybrid Excel, with all-wheel drive and powered by a 2.5 litre petrol engine and electric motor giving 195 hp. With a 0-100 kph time of 8.4 seconds it is quite nippy by class standards, a n d t o p s p e e d i s 1 8 0 k p h ( 11 2 mph). Fuel figure is 19.6 kpl (55.4 mpg). This version costs €38,751 (£33,975) and comes with alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, road sign assist, pre-collision system, auto lights and wipers, smart entry and push

button start, powered tailgate, rear view camera, leather upholstery, front and rear parking sensors, sat-nav, Bluetooth and on-line connectivity among its long list of features. On the move the RAV4 proves smooth and assured, with a balanced suspension set-up and precise steering making the car well planted on the corners. Ride quality is very good even when the surface gets rough. The only adverse comment in my notebook was more tyre hum at motorway speeds than I expected. To y o t a ’s b r a n d r e l i a b i l i t y i s

WISH LIST: Toyota’s latest addition.

Stats panel Model: Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Excel Engine: 2.5 litre petrol with electric motor Transmission: Electric CVT Performance: 0-100 kph 8.4 seconds, top speed 180 kph (112 mph) Economy: 19.6 kpl (55.4 mpg) Emissions: 118 g/km

well-known and it is backed by a five-year warranty - better than that of most rivals. The RAV4 isn’t the cheapest in the sector, nor

Model tested is UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets.

perhaps the most fun to drive, but when you start listing its various plus-points, it becomes increasingly hard to resist.

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De Gea in safe hands at United - for now? DAVID DE GEA returns to club football on Saturday October 14 as Manchester United travel to Liverpool in the Premier League - with Spain’s national keeper in safe hands at Old Trafford - for now? “David is really happy at the moment,” said club and country teammate Ander Herrera. Real Madrid have pursued long-term target United stopper de Gea for two years - and speculation rose its head when he sold his £3.85 million house in September. Reds’ goalie de Gea is currently renting a property, leading some pundits to link him to a move to Real Madrid next year. De Gea’s ‘on-off’ moves to Real from Old Trafford have collapsed twice - when the La Liga Champions failed to complete a deal. And Herrera, who moved to United from Athletic Bilbao in 2014, said de Gea, 26, will not move to the Bernabeu any time

UKSPORTSCENE with Andrew Atkinson soon. “We are going to try to keep him at the club - for as long as possible. I can see him staying here for more years,” said midfielder Herrera. United boss Jose Mourinho has ambitions to lead United to the Premier League title this season and Herrera said: “We need to win titles to keep David with us - that’s what we did last season.” In the wake of Real’s unsuccessful attempts to lure de Gea to Spain they have turned their sights to Athletic Bilbao ‘keeper Kepa - a No 1 target for the summer for free. Zinedine Zidane has been linked with signing Kepa, 22, on a free transfer next summer. Kepa - who has refused to extend his contract is in the final year of his con-

tract at Bilbao, and can head for the exit door in July 2018 a free agent. Bilbao had reportedly been unsuccessful to increase Kepa’s release clause - from €18m

to €65m - and tie him down to a new contract. Ahead of United’s trip to Anfield this weekend, Herrera said: “David is the number one. I train with him every day - I think he wants to be a legend at Manchester United.” De Gea switched to United from Real Madrid in 2011 for £18.9m and Herrera revealed: “David has been at the club six

ROY HODGSON: Another lesson at Palace.

Matthews on the move AFTER seven years as sports reporter/correspondent for the EWN, Tony Matthews is switching papers. He will now be contributing to our sister publications, the RTN and Sol Times. Since 2010, Tony has submitted his weekly sports bulletin from all parts of the world, from Venezuela to Barbados, from Singapore to Scotland and from Wales to France and Spain. He has interviewed many top sports personalities including Fernando Alonso, Rafael Nadal, Marc Marquez, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Sir Ian Botham and the late boxer Jake LaMotta, as well as former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Abba’s Bjorn Ulvaeus. He has also penned the history of Spanish football, the Olympic Games and the World Cup, and has covered the sporting lives of Seve Ballesteros, Lester Piggott, Alfredo Di Stefano and Ferenc Puskas. Tony, who will continue to submit ‘exclusive stories’ to the EWN, said: “I’ve been involved in sport virtually all of my life, as footballer, cricketer, PE teacher, radio reporter and author of over 150 books… and I will continue to contribute stories, facts and figures to my best ability.” Tony has worked tirelessly and loyally as a

PROLIFIC AUTHOR: Tony Matthews. freelance sports contributor on behalf of the EWN. The changes being introduced are part of overall plans to further improve the services offered to both advertisers and readers. Thank you Tony for all your hard work on behalf of the EWN, and it is great that RTN and Sol Times’ readers will continue to benefit from your regular contributions. *The EWN Media Group (EWNMG) now has three different newspaper brands and 10 weekly titles, plus extensive online sites providing local, national and international news 24/7.

DAVID DE GEA: World No 1. years. The first six months he told me were difficult for him.” Herrera is confident that de Gea will remain, pointing to silverware: “We won three titles last season - that is what he

wants,” said Herrera. United won the Community Shield, the EFL Cup and Europa League last season. De Gea said: “I want to be the best keeper in the world.”

Another lesson in football for ex-teacher Roy ROY HODGSON taking the reins at Crystal Palace doesn’t get any easier with The Eagles hosting Premier League Champions Chelsea on Saturday October 14 awaiting a beating: We are the boxer - fighting. Hodgson is up for a fight against all odds of keeping The Eagles in the top flight: “We are the boxer - fighting - and we are going to have to take the blows. “It’s going to be a longish and hard process - but I know there’s light at the end of the tunnel,” said ex-England chief Hodgson. Veteran manager Hodgson, 70, has had more clubs than Tiger Woods - with Palace being his 23rd club in all managerial positions. Hodgson, whose mother was a baker in his home town Croydon, saw his career rise, from that of being manager at Swedish club Halmstad BK in 1976, to that of becoming England national chief in 2012. Hodgson has returned to Palace - where he was a youth player - before playing nonLeague football with Tonbridge Angels and Gravesend & Northfleet. Age 23, Hodgson gained his fully qualified coaching badge and joined Maidstone United, as a player and assistant-manager. In 1976 Hodgson was appointed manager at Halmstads BK and was successful in winning the League Championship in 1976 and 1979. Bristol City, Oddevold Orebro and Malmo FF were among clubs that saw Hodgson in charge, before taking the reins of the national team in Switzerland in 1992, prior to returning to club football at Inter Milan in 1995. In 1997 Hodgson took charge of Blackburn Rovers, returning to Inter Milan, as caretaker coach in 1999. Grasshoppers, Copenhagen, Udinese, UAE, Viking and Finland saw Hodgson away from British football during 1999-2007, returning on English soil at Fulham.

Liverpool swooped for Hodgson in 2010 paying a £2 million compensation fee for his tenure - that lasted only until 2011 when he departed Anfield by mutual consent, when replaced by Kenny Dalglish. Hodgson’s next stop was at West Brom but he left The Baggies when approached by England to become the national manager, a job he began in 2012. After Euro 2012, the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Euro Championship Hodgson departed the England national stage under a barrage of criticism. In September Hodgson came full-circle when heading back to the club where he spent time in the youths at Crystal Palace - in the wake of The Eagles sacking Frank de Boer after a poor run of results after just 77 days in charge. Hodgson, who signed a two-year contract, has had a baptism of fire since taking the baton at struggling Palace, with Premier League games against Southampton, Manchester City, Manchester United - and Chelsea this weekend. One-time teacher Hodgson, who can speak five languages, said: “All you can do is try to get the best performances out of the players. If they are not good enough, you struggle.” After a baptism of fire with heavy defeats, Hodgson said: “We know the task in hand is difficult. There will come a stage in the season - hopefully - if you get better, the points will come.” Despite injury-hit Palace’s woes Hodgson remains undeterred: “Hopefully you will catch up the ground you have lost at the beginning - there’s no point crying over spilt milk,” said Hodgson. Palace lost 4-0 against United before the international break, leaving The Eagles rock bottom of the table - with seven defeats from seven games - and no goals scored. “The fixture list has been tough - we knew that. We’ve had enormously tough fixtures and Chelsea coming up,” said Hodgson.

E W N Costa de Almería

12 - 18 October 2017

ICELAND QUALIFY: Iceland have become the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup Finals after they beat Kosovo 2-0 in Reykjavik in their final qualifying match to secure top spot in Group I.

Costa de Almería’s best guide to local sport

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Taekwondo Mojacar THE Mojacar Taekwondo Club is very proud to announce the grading of three of their students to black belts First and Second Dan. After years of dedication to this noble Martial Art, it was finally time for the students to suffer hours of examination where their knowledge, physical strength and fighting spirit were to be put to the test. The participants had to present series’ of Tul (high level patterns) as they were challenged in Matsogi (sparring against one or various opponents). They had to break boards with hand and foot techniques, show their knowledge of the Korean vocabulary and prepare a thesis on Taekwondo. Laura Linschoten (2ºDan), Havana Thompson (1ºDan) and Osaia Reding (1ºDan) received their well-deserved black belt. Mr Serge Dewree, coach of the club said: “This fantastic achievement by our athletes shouldn’t be underestimated. When many found a thousand excuses to give up, Laura, Havana and Osaïa had to dig deep and show their

BLACK BELTS: From left, Laura Linschoten, Osaïa Reding, Havana Thompson and coach Serge Dewree. personal strength to carry on; congratulations, we are all very impressed by what you have accomplished...” The Global Taekwondo Federation to which the Mojacar Taekwondo Club is affiliated certifies the Black Belts.

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Taekwondo Mojacar trains at ‘Unicorn Fitness’ on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Classes from four years old. More info: Call or WhatsApp Serge on 646 844 708.

President’s Day for Badgers MARINA DEL TORRE was the venue for Badgers to compete in the final round of the annual order of merit trophy. A shotgun start kicked everyone off in perfect conditions and it was a fun day enjoyed by all. The evening dinner at Bella Vista with Ashley and Darius providing the music made it a special day. It was Steph Glynn who came out on top of the merit table, she has been working hard at her game and has come down the handicap table quickly showing a high level of consistency. Well Done Steph. Full results for the day: 1st Steph Glynn, 2nd Chris Baker, 3rd Duncan Smart. Nearest The Pin, 2nd Steve Dodd, 5th Brian Watts, 14th Derick Westwood,17th Chris Baker. Nearest The Pin in Two, Jock Glynn 6th, Mark Newall 12th,White Spot Marker, Steph Glynn. The Longest Drive For Men, Dave Wright. The Longest For Women, Viv Parker. Thank you to all the members for raising €1,400 that will go to the Vera Orphanage. Last but not least Lyn Farmer came in with a personal best of 37 points. Badgers also play on Saturday mornings, for further information call Duncan Smart on 634 331 059.