TIM January 2015

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TM



Costa Blanca TM

Inland and Coastal

Inside the January edition...

A Very Happy New Year to you all. And welcome to this, the January 2015 and 122nd edition of the Tim magazine.

Marble Quarrying in Pinoso

We hope you all had a good and peaceful Christmas, and that the over indulgence, is now starting to wane.

Marty Funkhauser

Some of you will now be starting the New Year with resolutions that you will be trying to keep, good luck to all of you whom have decided to either give something up or change something in your life during the New Year.

The Legal Page

We would also like to send our Congratulations to Zoe and Alexander whom received a very special Christmas present, Zoe gave birth to a gorgeous baby girl on the 3rd of December, the new arrivals name is Leah, so our love and best wishes to all three of you.

Gadget Page

Last month’s spot the bull competition winner was Mrs G Wishaw of Fortuna who found bully hiding on page 13 on the B.I.G.Maquinariallevante advert, so our congratulations to you, a crisp 50 euro note is winging its way to you. See page 53 for this month’s Spot the Bull entry form. Please when entering this competition, can you make sure that your details are fully legible.

La Marina Business Pages

Happy New Year

The Fun Pages

Going Out

Regards The Tim Team

The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor or staff. And the TIM magazine and or its staff will not be held liable for views in articles that the reader may not agree with

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TIM Magazine™

Marble quarrying in Pinoso by Chris Thompson

We were still hunting for a house. Getting out of the car we thought the town looked nice enough until we gazed North. Monte Coto, a huge white gash in the hillside, towered over Algueña. It’s the largest open cast quarrying operation in Europe. We decided the town wasn’t for us. Administratively the hill is in Pinoso but the 250 hectare site is hardly visible from there. It’s the Algueñeros who have the lorries rumbling through their town, breathe the dust and look up to the huge lights that illuminate the 24 hour workings. Spain ranks quite highly in the league of stone quarrying countries. China, as usual nowadays, is number one but Spain is about the sixth largest. In Pinoso they’ve been quarrying from time immemorial but quarrying really took off when the town started to grow big-time in the mid 19th Century. Limestone and sandstone were dug out to make everything from millstones and drinking troughs to the grandest public buildings. The stone for Pinoso Parish Church and the Torre del Reloj for instance came from quarries on the Caballusa road. It wasn’t until 1923 though that the ivory cream marble or Crema Marfil Monte Coto that forms the backbone of Pinoso’s current economy began to be exploited. When geologists talk about marble they are talking about a metamorphic rock usually formed from an original limestone. Limestones are sedimentary rocks which can be formed several ways but most are laid down just offshore in shallow sea water. It’s an oversimplification but when rocks get squeezed and warmed up they become a bit runny and form new rocks. Any sort of rock can be metamorphosed. Unlike geologists stonemasons aren’t pernickety and when they talk about

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marble they include unaltered limestones that take a nice polish. The Pinoso marble was laid down in reefs in the Eocene epoch some 56 million years ago. It has been reheated and recrystallised and has veins of white calcite running through it. The marble is hard wearing and has other qualities that make it good for ornamnental and building purposes Back in the 1920s the marble was dug out with picks and hand tools. Hammers and wedges were used to split the rock. The marble was carted away by oxen. Later compressed air tools and braided steel cable made the job easier but the real advances came in the 1980s with diamond tipped cutters and motorised rock saws. I’ve seen different figures for the percentage of total Spanish marble production coming from Pinoso but it’s between a third and a half. Again the numbers vary according to the source but some eighteen to twenty firms have quarrying rights on Monte Coto the big one being Levantina stone. The companies currently pay the Town Hall in Pinoso about 23€ per cubic metre and in 2014 that translated into a budget estimates for earnings of around 6.7€ million. Back in 2007 Pinoso earned over 9€ million from the extraction levy but that plummeted to 4.5€ million in 2009. Mind you with just under 8,000 people in Pinoso that’s still a fair amount per head. The marble is exported all over the world with China being the single largest market followed by a cluster of Arab countries. So next time you’re in a shopping centre walking across a nice ivory coloured veined marble take the time to wonder if it came from that huge quarry above Algueña.

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TIM Magazine™

JAGUARS Xmas Bash

The Jaguar Enthusiasts Club in Spain held its last meeting of 2014 on the 14th December at Restaurant Nugolat near Elche. Our second visit to this brilliant restaurant. May I take this opportunity to thank all those people that attended and for all those members that supported us through 2014. A very special thank you to Ian McMenemy, our Events Director for organising another fabulous event and the sterling work he does organising all of our meetings. Restaurant Nugolat is located just outside Elche on the Carretera Dolores, Km 5. Restaurant Nugolat has beautiful gardens, great parking unfortunately we had one of those rare days when the weather let us down, it was very overcast when we arrived and soon started to rain which eventually developed in to a torrential downpour. That restricted the potential for the event pictures. We were allocated our own special dining room, perfect for us, good job as the rest of the restaurant was absolutely packed. On arrival, as the weather was rather inclement, most people congregated in the bar for a few drinks and a chance to catch up with old friends and to meet new members. We sat down for lunch just before 2:00pm in our private function room in which the tables had been set “to the nines”; they were incredible. I had high hopes for the rest of the day; I was not to be disappointed. The feast commences. To start, fresh bread, garlic and tomato, a plate of succulent ham and Manchego cheese, a crisp smoked salmon salad and baby squid in a light tempura coating, some of the best I have ever had, fabulous. This was followed by hot potato and ham croquets. On offer for the main course were two types of paella, fish, solomillo of pork in a light mushroom sauce, and lamb chops, my choice, tender succulent, melt in the mouth even better with mint sauce (my own supply). Dessert was ice cream and an almond flan. Drinks a plenty accompanied this delicious feast, unlimited wine, beers, water and coffee. They even finished the meal off with a glass of cava and a liqueur all for 25.00 Euros a head, fantastic value for money. If that was not enough we were visited by a brilliant Mariachi band and we were treated to two short arias from Ms Lydia Hernandez, a professional opera singer and companion of our good friend Chris Fox, I have to compliment the staff and the management at Restaurant Nugolat, the service and the food were exceptional. I take this opportunity to thank all the members that attended especially the new members and the members that bought guests, bringing the total to 56 people and 17 cars which included a stunning new XF Estate, a stunning motor, a number of XK8’s, XJS’s, XJ’s, S types and many more. The meeting also held another surprise, in recognition for all his hard work looking after our facebook page we presented David O’Shea with an award. A big thank you to all those people that brought items for the planned Grand Auction in March. At the end of the meeting we presented Vincente, one of Nugolats management with a JEC plaque recognising there efforts in making it such a great day. A great meal, brilliant company, music and laughter - just an exceptional day, why not come and join us at our next meeting on the 25th January. We have a few things planned for 2015, The Big One at Parador Siguenza in March, another Magical Mystery Tour maybe a run down south, a chance to meet the members from the Costa Del Sol. 4

The Jaguar Enthusiasts Club is the largest of the worlds Jaguar Clubs, apart from joining in the fun at the meetings, members also benefit from a glossy 140 page A4 monthly magazine, Jaguar spares department and a technical advice service second to none. If you live in Spain and own a Jaguar you should be a member of The Jaguar Enthusiasts Club. The JEC in Spain is organised by Eric Arnold and Ian McMenemy. Eric can be contacted by email at jaguarspain@outlook.com or by phone on 609931647 or alternatively check out www.jec-spain. es or the JEC main web site www.jec.org.uk. Our Events director, Ian McMenemy can be contacted at McMenemy@JEC-events. com. Not forgetting David Shea who looks after our Facebook identity and John Parkin who manages our dedicated web site www.jec-spain.es

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TIM Magazine™

. L A C I G O L C Y C A New Year a New You in 2015. Happy New Year to you all from Lynn and I . We hope you have a great 2015 and now’s the time to improve on all your cycling skills. If you haven’t started cycling yet then what are you waiting for? For those of you who have here are some tips and ideas on how to improve and make yourself a better fitter cyclist. Consistency is how you get fitter. It’s far better to ride a little bit several times a week than just having one big ride every other week. Developing a cycling habit will be the best thing you can do to improve your fitness. Cycling shouldn’t be uncomfortable but we know that many riders suffer various aches and pains. However there is a lot that you can do to avoid it. Having the right size and kind of bike is paramount, having the saddle and handlebars altered to suit your shape and size is very important. The bike needs to fit you. Have a good routine of stretching and strengthening exercises to do after and between your rides this will help prevent many of the niggles and aches that come from riding a bike for long periods of time, you can even do them when stopped for a coffee break. Finding more time to ride your bike is a challenge for all of us but two things will help, be creative and be organised. These two qualities will allow you to seize every opportunity that comes your way. You can cycle to work, for the shopping, for the papers to friends houses for dinner to the pub, restaurant etc. There are numerous opportunities to spend more time in the saddle and save money if you want to. There are many ways to get yourself fitter. One of the best ways is to cycle on hills, there are many reasons to love hills rather than hate them, hills have always had a poor reputation with bike riders, hills make you fit, they may make your legs hurt and your lungs burn but riding hills regularly will build up leg strength and will force you to work a little bit harder than usual and they will also boost your cardio vascular fitness levels. Do not avoid them if you want to get fitter and faster. Hill also give variety to your ride and once at the top you normally have beautiful views and great fun descending after the hard push to get to the top, there are many different types of hills and the best thing is to find a hill close to you that suits you best. Try timing yourself up the hill and see how you improve if you can do hills everything else is easy. Pacing yourself whilst on a ride is also important as you need to ensure that you have enough energy left to see you through to the end, being able to chat to your mates and other riders is a good measure that you have your pacing right. If you are out of breath it is time to slow 6

down, remember the hare and the tortoise. Running out of energy on the bike is unpleasant but can be easily avoided if you think about nutrition before, during and after your ride. You don’t have to carry loads of expensive supplements with you, all you need is a handful of dried apricots which are easily available, easy to carry and easy to eat. It’s also important to ensure that at least one of your water bottles contains a carbohydrate drink (energy drink ). If you haven’t ridden in a group before, it’s an idea to join a local group or club no matter what style and type of cycling you do, there are groups out there for everyone. Riding in a group is enjoyable, sociable, make new friends and allows you new opportunities, learn new different routes it also makes you work harder and go further. Please check our website under clubs and groups for information or give us a call. Also in 2015 give yourself an aim, if the furthest you have cycled is 40 or 50k try to aim for 50 or 70k, also try to complete one long ride of 100k during 2015.Hope this helps you all to improve and learn new skills, become fitter , healthier and happier. Keep that wheels turning “ All the best Gary and Lynn” .

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TIM Magazine™

The Politics

Page by Jimmy Blenkinsopp

Welcome one and all to the new Politics page which will attempt to keep you informed with what is happening in the UK without big words so that you, yes you can understand it.

Let’s begin with UKIP. The party that has continually fought a running battle to prove they are not the BNP in disguise have now followed the Right Wing path by pressing the self-explode button shortly before a General Election. There is a small difference in that UKIP are yet to turn out to be homosexual and/or child abusers but let’s not hold our breath. David Soutter’s job at UKIP is to vet newcomers. During a speech at the party’s Welsh Conference, probably held in a shed in Aberystwyth, he said that half of his time was spent “weeding out the lunatics”. It seems that Mr Soutter’s position may be up for grabs if his recent form is to count for anything. Enter Natasha Bolter who recently made the UKIP candidates list after her transfer from the Labour Party and is now pursuing a sexual harassment case against UKIP general secretary Roger Bird. Ms Bolter has an impressive CV if you are a complete knob and fail to check any of her claims like attending Wadham College, Oxford where she was awarded an upper class second degree. Not according to Wadham College who have no record of her and you would take their word rather than Natasha’s who, when interviewed by a researcher at The Times newspaper when asked how many children she had she dithered between two and five. Ms Bolter alleges that Mr Bird attempted to have sex with her whom she naturally refused as he was her boss and that would never happen. In fairness to Mr Bird, not an easy task, he is armed with a sheet full of text messages sent to him from Ms Bolter which suggest their relationship was a tad more than middle aged balding boss and semi-fit secretary. What of her defection from the Labour Party? Well, according to the Labour Party. And again I am going to take their word over hers; she was kicked out for nonpayment of fees. Last week’s BBC Question time had Nigel Farage and Comedian/Campaigner/ Knob Russell Brand as star attractions. How ironic that a journalist, Camilla Cavendish, stole the show illustrating that she was more in touch with the electorate than any of the politicians or Russell Brand. Farage and Brand played Punch and Judy for a while which was mildly entertaining before a member of the audience, the brother of a UKIP MEP, took Brand to task for campaigning but not standing for election. Brand won the insult of the night award for calling Farage a “pound shop Enoch Powell”, whilst Farage seemed to have the majority of support from the audience who thankfully were not made up of the morons who dribble over Brand’s every sermon. The week’s biggest news was that Ed Milliband was going to wipe out the deficit which is now so large that there are officially no words to describe it. When asked how Ed was going to achieve this modern miracle the journalists at the accountants conference were told that this could only be revealed when Labour are in power. Now if that isn’t stupid enough, how about this? It took one of the journalists to ask how the country was going to make such extraordinary amounts of money as to even touch the deficit whilst the accountants remained silent. It’s all good stuff.

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TIM Magazine™

by David Fraser

Firstly – HAPPY NEW YEAR! Well, loads of things happened in 2014, with loads of new tech coming along. Here are a few theories of what´s likely to come in the next 12 months. Phones & Tablets: Samsung are expected to announce the arrival of the Galaxy S6, which will update the already popular S5 series, and up the ante again! LG and Huawei are set to make a big move into their currently weak range of phones in the market. Although they are both large companies, until now, their entries into the market have had limited success. Both companies promise this will change. Microsoft have now agreed to allow their tablet OS (Operating System) to be released to manufacturers for free, meaning that mobile devices that we would already be familiar with (Windows) will be starting to challenge the Apple and Android market. With the latest version of Android (after Lollipop, the next version will start with M, if Google keep the naming system...Marshmallow? Mars Bar? Who knows!), tablets will become even more user friendly and powerful. With Apple already talking about iOS9 for their tablets, the race between the two giant systems is still in full swing. Tesco have announced the HUDL 3, which will be an improved version of their very successful HUDL and HUDL 2. The supermarket giant has always impressed, and they have even hinted at a release of a HUDL phone. I suspect that will worry some of the larger tech companies, as traditionally Tesco have done well with their tech products. TVs: Many providers are bringing out new 4K TV´s, and as these hit the mainstream market, the prices will fall. Just like the LED TV´s, the 4K TV´s will take a little time to become the “normal”, but expect to see more and more TV´s in this range. 10

LG have shown a prototype TV which has a bendable screen. This could mean you can fit a TV into almost anything, no matter what the shape or awkwardness of the space to fill. Gadgets: Samsung and Apple are set to reveal yet more “wearable” tech devices. Soon to be more than just gimmicks, the rest of the market are now starting to take note, with PC giant Lenovo expected to make announcements in January. Steam are set to release their own “gaming machines” based on PC technology, but will challenge the likes of the Playstation and Xbox units. Car Tech Wars are also starting, with manufacturers being shown new devices from both Apple and Android. Computers: Many people are calling the death of the traditional PC (be it a desktop/tower or a laptop). Hopefully Windows 10 will do something to stem the growing tide away from the traditional computer. Windows 10 is currently scheduled to be released around September 2015, and it appears that many people are putting off purchases of computer systems until the new system is here. This could, many believe, cause an early release date as manufacturers struggle to sell Windows 8 machines. Microsoft again are investing in something called a “Surface Mini”, which will be a full power PC, but in a tablet form. This could be a game changer for the laptop, if it ever happens, as people generally still keep an old laptop or desktop for printing, or keeping photos on, or word processing. Tablets have always been a bit limited on space, and a bit clunky to use for delicate work, such as spreadsheets or letter writing. This is a “may or may not” thing, but, hey, we can be hope.

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TIM Magazine™

New School Rules & Food Banks by Marty Funkhauser

My New Year’s resolution is to open a new school in the UK. I have sent off the relevant forms to the DOE and I’m waiting to hear from them. I am in no doubt that I will be approved as I have drafted my own set of School Rules which include the following:-

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Haircuts. Do not send your child to school with a haircut which is likely to have them turned around at the school gates or you will have to cancel your plans to visit the local crack den cancelled and home school your child. Do not bother to phone the Daily Mail as we believe that all publicity is good publicity.

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Parental Responsibility. Our teachers teach the subjects on the school curriculum. In order to be unique we do not include how to eat with a knife and fork on our curriculum. If you have not bothered to teach this simple act to your child and they are unable to cut up their school dinner then we suggest you feed them an extraordinary sized breakfast. A child should be able to use cutlery when they are between two and three years old. There is correspondence on the popular Mumsnet website suggesting that seven or eight years is acceptable, don’t follow this advice as it is written by ignorant people. Please note that our perimeter fencing is designed to shred any fast food being pushed through it.

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If you have taught your child that “banter” ends with punching then you are an idiot and your child will not be accepted into the Debating Society.

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We do not allow “banter”.

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9% of Heads of Schools have had children attending their school wearing nappies. Our airport style scanners at the entrance gate are Pamper sensitive. If you can’t be bothered to teach your child how to sit on a toilet before they are five years of age then find a different school. Do not bother to telephone the Daily Mail (see Rule 1).

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We have no problem with children not speaking English providing that they are not English. We have professionals most capable of teaching language skills but not as a parent substitute.

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Christmas. Our school celebrates Christmas and we have a Christmas play featuring a nativity scene. We acknowledge, Eid, Passover etc as part of our curriculum and the need for our pupils to respect other religions but not at the expense of a “Christian” themed education. We do not march at Easter neither do we hold “stonings”. Our lunchtime menu has a vegetarian option to accommodate religious or non-animal diets. Our meat is not guaranteed Halal or Kosher although, on occasion, it might be, market forces will dictate.

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It is of vital importance that you take an interest in your child’s education. We hold three PTA meetings per year, if you fail to attend all three your child will be excluded from the following year.

I attended school in England from 1966 until 1976. Most of the above was normal during my education, when did it all go so terribly wrong? Next month Food Banks, necessary relief for those below the poverty lineor merely an opportunity to spend all your benefits on booze and fags?

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TIM Magazine™

The Dog You Need This month, I thought we would look at top ten lists, regarding dogs and it does make for some fascinating reading. Top ten most popular breeds in the UK

Top ten most intelligent dogs 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Border Collie Poodle German Shepherd Golden Retriever Doberman Pinscher Shetland Sheepdog Labrador Retriever Papillon Rottweiler Australian Cattle Dog

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Top ten dog names of 2014 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

www.thedogyouneed.com by Peter Singh

Top ten countries with highest dog populations

Bella Max Buddy Lucy Daisy Molly Bailey Maggie Charlie Sadie

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Top ten dogs in films 1

Labrador Retriever Cocker Spaniel Springer Spaniel (English) German Shepherd Staffordshire Bull Terrier Border Terrier Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Golden Retriever Pug Boxer

United States : 75.8 million Brazil : 35.7 China : 27.4 Russia : 15 Japan : 12 Philippines : 1.6 India : 10.2 Argentina : 9.2 France : 7.4 Romania : 4.1 Top ten longest living dogs

Marley - Marley and Me Beethoven - Beethoven Lassie - Lassie Toto - The Wizard of Oz Hachi - Hachi Hooch - Turner and Hooch Benji - Benji Bingo - Bingo Winn-Dixie - Because of Winn-Dixie Jerry Lee - K-9

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Max - Beagle-Dachshund mix - 29 years, 282 days - USA Bluey - Australian Cattle Dog - 29 years, 160 days - Australia Butch - Beagle - 28 years - USA Bramble - Border Collie - 27 years, 211 days - UK Adjutant - Labrador-Retriever cross - 27 years, 98 days - UK Pusuke - Shiba-Inu mix - 26 years, 248 days - Japan Sugar - Mix - 24 years, 360 days - USA Piccolo - Mix - 23 years, 86 days - Italy Kathy - Mix - 22 years, 29 days - USA Mister - German Shepherd mix - 21 years, 332 days - USA

www.thedogyouneed.com is a registered charity, where we rehabilitate the most severely abused animals. Our charity registration number is 1157175. If you would be kind enough to donate anything to this special cause you can do by Paypal, where the account details are peter@thedogyouneed.com or to our Nat West charity account, where the sort code is 60-16-03 and the account number is 73754900. When donating via Paypal, can you please choose the option, personal payment or gift. Thank you.

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TIM Magazine™

The Legal Page Written by Rob Innis with Ignacio Pellicer Mollá (AbogadoSolicitor – Barrister) of Pellicer & Heredia Abogados New Europeans Laws on Wills and Inheritance Many people do not to plan for their death. However, it is important to make appropriate arrangements and to make a will. Even if you have already made a will you need to review its contents as the law has been changed and there are new options, which may be beneficial to your relatives and heirs. The new European Regulation No. 650/2012, which is now in force, relates to the contesting and challenging of Spanish wills granted by British citizens in Spain. This regulation was passed and ratified by Spain, and according to Article 20, it affects citizens from UK, Denmark, and Ireland, even though they have not ratified this regulation, as well as other EU nationalities.

Walk in with your will For FREE advice - Walk into your nearest P&H office (Alicante, Hondon, Petrer, Moraira or Quesada - Rojales) see their web site for more details, with your current will and ask for free advice. Pellicer & Heredia Solicitors will review your current will for free, to ascertain that it is in accordance with both your wishes and with the requirements of the new European Regulation No. 650/2012 and also advise on the making of new wills. (See the advertisement opposite) This will ensure that your wishes are carried out and that problems and tax liabilities are minimised for your inheriting relatives or other persons. Non-Resident Tax – Refunds

Ignacio explained, ‘We anticipate that there will be many contested wills in the near future. Because the applicable law to the Succession-Inheritance procedure will be the law of the country where the decedent had his habitual residence. Under Article 22 of this regulation, the testator or testatrix can specify in their will, or at the time of death, his or her national law.

If you have been paying non-resident taxes during the last four years, including inheritance taxes, you should bear in mind that it is very likely that you have paid more than a resident. You should have paid less and benefit from the advantages of the taxation regulations of the area of Spain in which you live, as the residents did.

If you decide to leave your assets to your spouse, or anyone else (not your children), and you live in Spain, it is of extreme importance that, according to the new regulation, your national law is specified in your will.

So you are advised to contact Pellicer and Heredia who will help you to make a formal claim for the repayment of any taxes which you may be due as a refund for previous over payment.

Otherwise, if you pass away while living in Spain, the applicable law to the Inheritance will be the Spanish Succession Law. This means that your children, as forced heirs, would inherit at least 2/3 of your estate. This will avoid future problems at the time of the signing the inheritance deed.’ Before the approval of the new regulation, the Supreme Court of Spain, Order No. 849/2002, stated that a will could be contested in the event an English national was domiciled and with all assets in Spain, accepting the ‘reenvio’ from English to Spanish Law, that the Spanish Law was the applicable law to his inheritance, declaring the deceased’s children forced heirs of his/her will, as per the Spanish Inheritance Law they are the legal heirs unless they were disinherited on a public deed.

If you require further legal advice on any tax, legal or administrative matters please contact Pellicer & Heredia Lawyers & Tax Advisors who will be pleased to help you. Do not forget to mention you are a TIM reader. For more information and free advice, call us on +34 965 480 737 or see our advertisement on the front cover of TIM or e-mail info@ pellicerheredia.com Ignacio and Pedro along with their staff across all of their offices would like to wish all past, current and future clients a prosperous New Year and also look forward to meeting you at one of our free seminars – watch out for the details in future TIM Legal Pages and website.

This new regulation applies to people who die on or after August 17, 2015. But if the testator or testatrix stated in his or her will the applicable law for his or her succession prior to August 17, 2015, then that choice will be valid, if it meets the conditions of the regulation, or of the rules of private international law which was in force at the time the will was executed.

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TIM Magazine™

New Alicante Consul Sarah-Jane Morris

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Mrs Sarah-Jane Morris has been appointed to take over as British Consul from Paul Rodwell who is moving to a new position within the Foreign Office.

and also residents must register onto their local padron to ensure maximum support from Madrid for local townhalls and communities.

Mrs Morris has 20 years experience of Spain, including 10 years consular experience, and a background of working within voluntary organisations across the world. In her new position, she will be responsible for one of the busiest British Consulates in the world with a huge Expat community as well as millions of British visitors who holiday in Spain.

Visitors should understand that if they lose their passport they would need to apply for a temporary replacement, which is chargeable and will need a visit to the Alicante consulate office during normal opening hours. Furthermore, they should also seriously consider buying travel insurance which can be obtained cheaply and which covers against a variety of risks such as passport loss and can prove to be extremely cost effective.

Mrs Morris will manage Alicante in addition to the ConsulateGeneral in Madrid, where she has served as consul for central and northern Spain for the last two years. At a recent ‘meet the press day’, I asked Mrs Morris if her having to share her time between Alicante and Madrid meant that the local Expat community and visitors would suffer a degraded consul service especially given the high demands of the Alicante area. She replied ‘This is all part of a larger reorganisation and follows similar arrangements successfully made in Barcelona and Malaga. Now the Alicante area will have a direct link to Madrid through me and, when necessary, a direct link into the Spanish government based in Madrid.’ She went onto explain that the Alicante Consul has a larger staff than any other consul with departments representing UK DWP and Health departments and the locally based Lloyd Milen, Vice-Consul, has a vast local experience and support of the Alicante based teams. Given Spain’s excellent rail links between Madrid and Alicante and Valencia she felt that the distances separating the areas was not a real barrier to the her and the office continuing to offer an excellent service to local Expat communities. She praised the work previously done by Paul Rodwell and his team especially the links made with local charity and voluntary organisations working so hard to provide support to the vulnerable sections of Expat society. She insisted that all of this good work would continue to be built upon and emphasised that given her working background in the voluntary sector that this had a special meaning for her and support would continue in the future. The recent press release quotes her, ‘I am proud to have the opportunity to oversee the excellent work of the Alicante team, so ably led by Vice-Consul Lloyd Milen. In addition, I am looking forward to seeing what more can be done to improve yet further the service offered to British nationals. Alicante is one of the busiest consulates in the world, supporting two million British visitors to the region every year, as well as a very large British expatriate community.’ The discussion moved onto how the British can help themselves when both living and visiting Spain on holidays. Everyone should understand the correct and appropriate use of the EHIC card for temporary health cover and should not try to abuse its use when living permanently in Spain

The overall situation in Spain is now as follows: The nine British Consulates covering Spain and Andorra are now managed by three British Consuls, as follows: Spain Central and East (Consul, Sarah-Jane Morris, based in Madrid) - responsible for consulates in Madrid, Alicante and Bilbao, covering the regions of Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, País Vasco, La Rioja, Navarra, Castilla y Leon, Madrid, Extremadura, Castilla La Mancha, Valencia and Murcia Spain North East (Consul-General, Andrew Gwatkin, based in Barcelona) – responsible for consulates in Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza, covering the regions of Cataluña, Aragon and the Balearic Islands, as well as the Principality of Andorra Spain South (Consul, Charmaine Arbouin, based in Malaga) – responsible for consulates in Malaga, Tenerife and Las Palmas, covering the regions of Andalucía, Ceuta and Melilla and the Canary Islands.

The Alicante office is located : Edificio Espacio Rambla Méndez Núñez 28-32 6ª Floor 03002 Alicante The consulate is open to visitors Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 1.30pm, excluding public holidays. Consular phone lines are open from 9am to 5pm. The easiest way to find the new location is to approach from the sea end, in the marina area, and look for the very tall hotel – Tryp Gran Sol, which is virtually on the corner. Walk up Rambla de Mendez Nunez and look for a glass block building on your right hand side (nearly opposite Banco de Espana). Email: spain.consulate@fco.gov.uk Telephone enquiries: 902 109 356 (in Spain) (+34) 917 146 300 (if outside Spain) Consular phone lines are open from 9am to 5pm. Many of their services can be accessed by internet - http://www.gov.uk/world/spain

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TIM Magazine™

Sterling v Euro update 965 070 584 / 635 015 818 E. janet.spain@currencies4you.com Sterling brings in the New Year on a high! As predicted, Sterling is ending the year strong, moving close to levels last seen the summer of 2012. Dec 18th saw a push right back up to 1.2750 with the UK Retail Sales data coming in much higher than anticipated. The ‘Black Friday’ mayhem could well have played a part in this.

see if there is more to come. Don’t be caught out by the inevitable pull backs which always appear after such a quick hike. All C4U clients can now benefit from our banking partnership deal with the Banco Popular. -Maximum charge of 45€ on any bankers draft transactions, whatever the amount of the cheque. Huge benefit to anyone considering buying or selling a property, saving you several hundred Euros. Also no maintenance fees or transfer charges. Added to which we will get you the best exchange rate so saving you even more money. Call for a no obligation chat if you would like more information on this.

Retail industry data released by the UK Office for National Statistics showed a year-on-year rise of 6.4% in November. This is the highest year-on-year rise since May 2004, when retail sales grew by 6.9%. Anyone waiting to sell Euro and hoping for a New Year crash is getting into serious gambling land now although a breather drop back or two is not out of the question. It would be wise to get any Euros sold prior to the ECB Quantitative Easing arrival in early 2015 – this is likely to weaken the Euro even more and could trigger a GBP/EUR level back into 1.29 - 1.30 arena.

We can look after all your regular transfer requirements, be it pensions or monthly payments. Let us know the date and the amount you received from your last transfer and we will guarantee to beat it and save you money. Our local Currencies4You office can be found in the main square, in Pinoso. We also offer:- Vehicle re-registration to Spanish plates, Vehicle name changes, passport renewals, NIEs, Spanish Driving licence, Insurance and mailbox rental. Safety of your funds is paramount, as such we only use protected escrow accounts which are authorised and regulated by the FCA.

Euro buyers can benefit from the excellent rates now or risk hanging on to

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By Janet Lees Operations Director - Spain


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TIM Magazine™ Well Happy New Year or Feliz Año Nuevo to all you bikers out there. I hope Santa brought you what you wanted or at least what you could afford. A whole new year beckons you onto the best roads in Europe if not the world, all things considered including the weather, so remember how lucky you are. Although as I write this it has been 21° today it can get chilly in January, particularly if you go inland and up! If it doesn’t get chilly where you go it can definitely get wet so make sure you are prepared for adverse weather conditions. To me the secret of happy winter riding is layers. I always wear a thermal vest then a long sleeved T shirt with a variety of other warm, windproof stuff I have accumulated over the years and of course a good quality jacket which is waterproof as well. If you are going on a long run it’s easy to check the expected temperature online but remember the larger mountains sometimes create their own micro climates.

TIM BIKERS

Of course it’s no good having a nice warm you if your bike’s a pile of shite and I use the term advisedly, I can’t believe the state that some people let their bikes get into. Your brakes can save your life so make sure you check your pads and fluid. If you don’t know how ask someone who does. Remember the recommended braking ratios change in the wet. It’s 75/25% Front/Rear in the dry but 50/50 in the wet. Similarly those slick tyres you’ve been using in the dry really need some tread if you’re not going to go down the road. Check them carefully. On the subject of runs the only event I can see anywhere near is in Bullas on the 10/11th January. Don’t know anything about but I do know Bullas is in Murcia between Mula and Caravaca de la Cruz. Remember if you have any comments or want to advertise your club, group or an event I can be contacted via email at timbikers@gmail. com or on Facebook at Tim Bikers where you will also find details of events where I have got less notice. So have a happy month’s riding and remember what the Rawhiders say “Adventure before dementia”, don’t put it off until tomorrow! Spanish words of the month – Freno (pronounced fray no) – Brake, which fits nicely with Frenado – Braking and if you need to replace your brake pads they are Pastillas de freno. 22

Ride safe, Jack

timbikers@gmail.com Facebook Timbikers

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TIM Magazine™

I AM THE LEADER… By John McGregor

Sometime in the late seventies I was promoted from territory salesman to the glorious heights of Area Sales Manager, which meant managing a team of people for the first time. The company I worked for took such matters seriously and as part of my ongoing training I was sent on a one day ‘Management of People’ course at our head office. The Training Centre was actually a large hut in the middle of the car park, but as our company was well known, certainly in sales for its thorough training methods the building was well-known to me. I had attended my first week’s induction there some five years earlier and attended several courses over the previous years. On this particular day I was the only sales person attending of about twelve people: the others were from other departments that make up a busy manufacturer, like accounts, marketing, distribution, production etc, all people being in charge of others for the first time. Except for… Gordon. Gordon had lately joined the company as the Factory Training Manager, and lost little time in letting us all know it. His superior attitude could be summed up as ‘I don’t really know why I’m here, I know all this stuff – I should be training you…’ This stance quickly won him few friends amongst us, there were a few raised eyebrows and ribs nudged as Gordon spoke down to us. From nine o’clock until the coffee break we discussed people: how and how not to approach them to try to get the best out of them, and from memory it was a good session. Then we stopped and moved next door for a short break where Gordon once again reminded us of his considerable experience in life: yawn… When we were ushered back in there was a blank sheet of paper on the desk which we were told not to touch. After we were seated it was explained that we now had a short test of exactly 30 minutes, and to turn over the paper and start.

and enjoy the spectacle. But most were caught and in turn repeated Gordon’s claim, but the glory was all the Factory Training Manager’s. He had got there first – and was therefore the undisputed ‘leader in following directions’ – and he should have known better in his position. Doing it Gordon’s way you could never get to the end of the test in only thirty minutes, the questions were designed to be time-consuming, so when the thirty minutes were up most threw their pens down in exhaustion and frustration. But when the instructor running the course announced ‘This was a test of your ability to follow instructions, an important point in management , ie doing as you are told – and not what you personally think. Gordon, what does it say at the top of the page?’ Gordon read it out, but it still hadn’t sunk in. ‘Now, pass down to the penultimate question, number, 30, please, Gordon.’ As he read it out there was a groan from our man as he realised he’d been well and truly had, and he went red… very red. From then on for the rest of the day Gordon maintained a surly silence, hardly joining in the discussions and conversations over lunch and tea. Quite simply, it couldn’t have happened to a better bloke. I believe he left the company soon after… PS: Several years later, due to austerity measures our superb Training Department was done away with, including, sadly, that fantastic hut on the car park. After a while I asked my boss where the future sales management would be coming from now, with no ongoing program which I had benefitted from so much. Ken, a 50 year-old superb manager, motivator and delegator immediately turned it on me: ‘Right, young John,’ he said.’ Get the top ten young blades in the sales force together for a week and put ‘em through it. You’re in charge - it’ll do you good!’. So I did: I loved it, hard work but very rewarding, dare I say for everyone. On the first morning I needed an ice-breaker – so guess what I did? Yes, I laid ‘I Am The Leader In Following Directions’ exercise on them, and broadly speaking the ratio of success was about the same. We didn’t have any ‘Gordons’, but it shut one or two of the more cocky ones up and made them think... Happy days!

At the top it read: ‘Read through the paper thoroughly’. Then there were a numbered list of instructions and questions. Number one said ‘Write your name clearly at the top of the paper’. Number two said ‘Divide 314 by 17’. Question three said ‘Turn over the paper and draw a circle approximately 3.5 inches in diameter and divide it into nine sections, shading in alternate ones. The next twenty-seven questions were similarly awkward, time-consuming and vague. When you got down to question thirty, the penultimate question it read: ’Completely ignore all questions above, only obey numbers one, thirty and thirty one (the last one). This read: ‘Sit with your arms folded’. So: if you read through the paper initially, as it told you to do at the top, all you had to do was write your name and sit with your arms folded… What saved me was that I had been caught with this one once before on a previous sales course, and the warning bells clanged. On either side of me and around the room people were writing furiously, but I saw a bright young woman opposite smiling at me with her arms folded, and looking round one other young man was similarly sitting smirking. But the best was yet to come… After ten minutes a superior voice loudly announced: ‘My name is Gordon and I am the leader in following directions’. Yes, Gordon had got to question eight first, which read: ‘Say out loud your name and that you are the leader in following directions’. Laugh? I thought I’d never stop, but Gordon didn’t notice, he was in full flow, head down and going for it. By now one or two more had caught on to the trick, and had altered course to sit arms folded

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TIM Magazine™

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Make your overseas money transfers go further with us Repatriating funds back to the UK could potentially lose you thousands of pounds in fees. Sending money back to your home country should be a simple process, but many people are affected by a whole range of hidden charges if they’re not careful. What’s more, ensuring you get a favourable exchange rate is paramount when making a large transfer – as it can mean the difference of thousands when the money lands. Currencies Direct have helped thousands of people transfer their money to and from Spain each year, with one simple promise – we’ll make your money transfers easy. We won’t hit you with transfers fees or poor exchange rates, just great value and a fast and friendly service from real people. There are also some extra benefits if you join Currencies Direct. Working with CaixaBank, together, we mark the first agreement made between a currency specialist and a bank in Spain. So we can provide you with immediate overseas transfer service and no charges when you deposit a bankers’ draft. Being Spain’s leading retail bank opting firmly for growth both in Spain and internationally, CaixaBank operates over 6,000 branches, with over 10,000 ATMs and is the leader in online banking services allowing you to operate on a 24/7 basis. As long as you are sending money from the UK through Currencies Direct to your CaixaBank account in Spain the money will be in your Spanish account immediately. And whilst bankers’ drafts are a feature of banking in Spain, other providers charge as much as a 1.25% handling fee - CaixaBank does not charge a fee for all those Currencies Direct clients who

deposit bankers’ drafts. This helps you get more from your currency transfers. Perhaps that’ll even save you enough money to buy a new kitchen! What’s more, you’ll have your own client bank account with full access 24/7. We’re 100% secure and have the highest Dun & Bradsheet credit rating so you can rest assure your money is safe with us.

Main benefits of opening a Currencies Direct Caixabank account: • It can be opened anywhere in Spain • No commission charged when you deposit bankers’ draft • Immediate transfers from UK to Spain and vice versa • No transfer fees from Spain to UK or reverse Leigh Barron is your local currency expert. He will give you straightforward guidance helping you every step of the way from the initial talk, to accompanying you to the bank to assist with the banker’s draft. With offices in La Marina and La Zenia area, you can be sure that we are always here to help with your currency requirements. Why not give Leigh a call and visit our offices, or if you prefer, he can even visit you at home! Now that’s what we call personal service.

Let’s talk currency Leigh Barron

La Zenia

La Marina

Business Development Executive M +34 637 459 276 E leigh.b@currenciesdirect.com

Calle Salvador Dali No 6 Playa Flamenca Orihuela Costa La Zenia, 03189 T +34 965 994 830 E costablanca@currenciesdirect.com

Avenida de Londres 1A, Local 6 Urb La Marina San Fulgencio La Marina de San Fulgencio, 03177 T +34 965 994 830 E costablanca@currenciesdirect.com

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TIM Magazine™

January 1st

by Lucie Perkins, Nutri Fitness Coach

NEW YEAR - New Healthy YOU! The New Year is an opportunity for fresh starts – to set goals and renew previous commitments. Improving fitness levels is one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions, yet so many struggle to maintain it! Research indicates that more than two-thirds give up within two months. Here are some practical tips to help you stick to your New Year’s resolutions & health goals and make 2015 you’re healthiest yet!!

1

Prioritise and schedule time for regular exercise.

The hardest part about exercising is often getting ready for exercise – such as travelling to the gym or getting changed! Plan ahead by writing down all of your essential weekly commitments into your calendar. If you simply view exercise as a ‘bonus’ part of your weekly routine, you’ll be less likely to find excuses. Also try and get a friend to come along so it’s a social thing and you can support each other.

2

Choose a gym, running track or cycling route close to your home – or en-route to/from your normal commute.

Because the ‘getting there’ issue is so important, its recommended you select a gym (or other relevant setting for exercise) in an accessible location so that you’ll be less-likely to be put off by factors such as bad weather, traffic, safety concerns, etc. Even if your nearest gym costs more for a membership, research indicates that you’ll be more likely to use it – making it well worth it! Or you can run, cycle or skate for free in your local park.

3

Don’t rely on your level of motivation or emotions. Just do it!

Action is generally the prerequisite for motivation, not the other way around. If you think you need to wait for some inspiration before you start your new exercise routine and/or nutritional plan, you could be waiting for a long time. Many sources suggest that new habits take a minimum of three consistent weeks to form, and sometimes longer. Some days you won’t feel like it-fact. But try to see it as a job that you have to do in order to care for your body.

4

Write down your long and short-term fitness goals, including detailed steps.

Writing down your New Year’s resolution – including both long and shortterm goals, as well as the steps involved in reaching them – can increase motivation and reduce the risk of giving up. Be realistic... Rome wasn’t built in a day!

5

Aim low to begin with!

Many New Year’s resolutions aim to change way too much, way too soon – and are soon completely abandoned due to unrealistic commitments and

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goals, as well as due to insufficient ‘how-to’ information. A personal trainer can help you stay motivated and guide you.

6

If you can’t resist temptation, take it out of the kitchen!

Human beings are influenced by the five senses – touch, taste, smell, sound, and sight! There is nothing wrong with having treats sometimes. But make sure you don’t have stashes of junk food around the house as it will become an emotional crutch. Also when you do have those treats they will be a real reward.

7

Reward yourself!

As you complete some of the many steps involved in achieving your health goal, reward yourself! A little of what you fancy does you good. A massage at a spa, or a new out-fit, a trip out somewhere new will seem all the more special if you know you have worked hard on your health to get it.

8

Periodically re-evaluate your New Year’s resolution.

Frequently our life circumstances change. It’s important that our goals (and steps for achieving them) are flexible enough to change too. While a New Year’s resolution might be set in a single day, it’s achieved by completing multiple steps over a prolonged period of time. As you exercise more you will perhaps find you enjoy certain things more than others so you goal/routine will change. By looking at your original New Years health resolution you can also see if you are still on track.

9

Don’t be a perfectionist!

Don’t beat yourself up over the occasional slip – whether it involved missing a few too many workouts, or ‘giving in’ to your diet on a Friday night while out with friends. Expect to slip-up from time to time, and when it happens, just get right back on track immediately afterwards.

10

Tell your family, friends and colleagues so you have a support network.

Find somebody with a similar goal, and keep one another accountable by checking in with each other regularly to make sure you’re both on-track. Tell your friends and family of your goal so you get extra support on your health journey. Finally enjoy it and have fun! 2015 is your year!

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TIM Magazine™

Thoughts on

Physical Exercise by Monika Wood The Cooking Fairy

Whenever the talk comes to exercise I hear the same phrase again and again: Yes, I should do sports but I just can’t find the time. Unfortunately, for many regular physical exercise is being dropped to the bottom of the to-do-list. In the following are some hard facts that might let you rethink your priorities. Physical facts: Beginning in our thirties, we lose about ½ pound of muscle mass each year. Without counteraction that loss can double by the time you hit 50. With every pound of muscle lost, your body burns fewer calories, which explains why we pile on the pounds so much faster and losing weight gets harder. Decreasing muscle mass makes everyday tasks such as climbing stairs more difficult. As a result, we start to move less, which further contributes to loss of muscle and gain of fat. We’re trapped in a vicious circle. Training your muscles makes your body look firmer and your posture improves. Muscle mass burns seven times more calories than fat, so the more muscle you have the faster you burn calories and lose belly fat. Strong muscles also protect and build strong bones, which is essential, particularly for women. Not only do we as women lose muscle mass from the age of 30, we start to lose bone mass as well, a loss that accelerates going into menopause. To keep our body healthy and strong, we have to consider two major areas: our cardiovascular system and our muscles. Therefore, I urge you to do both, strengthen your muscles and aerobic exercise. A combination of both gives you the desired and lasting results. Fitness Facts: Cardio exercise burns calories, sheds fat and keeps your heart pumping (after all, your heart is a muscle that needs to be trained). Strength training with weights builds muscle and boosts metabolism. When you plan your weekly exercise routine, alternate between the two for optimal results. Your cardio exercise can be anything that fits with your schedule and your personal preferences (walking, running, cycling, swimming, dancing), as long as your blood gets pumping for at least 20 minutes. If you haven’t done any exercise for a while don’t overdo it when you start again! Fun and enjoyment are key in order to stick with it. Plan at least two sessions of weight training per week. By the way, carrying your own weight is weight training, too. No need to rush out and buy expensive equipment. Yoga is ideal when you consider working with your own body weight. If you prefer using weights, a litre-bottle of water can be all you need for the start. The key is repetition, not the number of kilos we lift. When you start with your fitness routine, consider that muscle mass weighs more than fat. So you might see your body weight going up a kilo or two after the first few weeks of exercise. This is a good sign as it shows that you are now building the so much needed muscle mass. And by that time you will notice your waistline shrinking. If you can’t fit in exercise every day of the week, don’t beat yourself up over it. Just do what you can and customise the workouts to your lifestyle. If you try to overachieve you are more likely to stop altogether. Just do what you can. Every bit helps! Having a companion can be hugely beneficial. Someone to share the fun and successes with. And you can motivate each other when times get tough. And remember: Exercise is ME-Time, time you invest in yourself, 30 minutes in 24 hours that belong to no one but you. And everyone around you will benefit as you become stronger, faster, and happier within yourself. Contact The Cooking Fairy at cookingfairy@hotmail.co.uk

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TIM Magazine™

New Year Leftovers Curried Turkey Soup Total time: 115 mins

Ingredients

Preparation

»» 2 Tbsp butter »» 2 cups chopped onion »» 1 cup chopped celery

»» 1 cup chopped carrot rry powder »» 4 teaspoons yellow cu key stock »» 4 cups of chicken or tur (we use basmati) »» 1/4 cup raw white rice d, cored, and diced »» 2 green apples, peele t (may add more to taste) »» 1 teaspoon kosher sal »» 2 bay leaves pper »» 1/4 teaspoon black pe oked turkey meat »» 2 cups of chopped co »» 1/4 cup heavy cream gurt for garnish »» Sour cream or plain yo rnish »» Chopped chives for ga

ium high heat in a lar ge (6 to 8 quart) thick-bottom ed pot. Add the onion s, celery, and carrots. Lower th e heat and cook until softened, about 8 to 10 minu tes. Add the curry po wder and cook for a minute or two more. »» Add the bay leave s, stock and rice, inc rease the heat to high and bring the stock to a simmer. Lower the heat to maintain a simmer. Simmer fo r 5 minutes. »» Add the chopped apples, salt, and pepp er. Simmer for 10 more minutes. »» Add the choppe d cooked turkey to the soup. Return to a simmer and stir in the cream . Add more salt and pepper to tas te. »» Serve garnished wi th a drizzle of yogu rt or sour cream that has been thinned with a little water and some chopped fresh chives or parsley.

http://www.simplyrecipes.com/

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cut out and keep

»» Melt butter on med


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Words & Photos by Rob Innis

All Aboard for

Siguenza

TIM Magazine™

Castilla La Mancha, famous for the fictional hero Don Quixote, has five provinces one of which is Guadalajara. I was invited to join a special medieval train excursion to Sigüenza, a small city in Guadalajara. We gathered at Madrid’s Chamartin railway station as the sound of Gaelic music filled the air. Musicians in period costume lead us like the Pied Piper of Hamlin down onto the platform. I admit to expecting the train to be from an earlier era of Spanish rail transportation, but we climbed aboard the standard carriages and set off as the musicians passed through the train entertaining us on our 90-minute journey to Sigüenza on a bright chilly November day. Classified as a city, even though it is home to only around 5,000 of Guadalajara’s 260,000 citizens we arrived and followed our guide on a historical tour around the sites as the biting wind cut across the high sierras around 160 kms northeast of Madrid. This area has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic age, around 2.6 million years ago. Stone tools and cave paintings discovered in the region provide historians with plenty of evidence to establish the area’s ancient history. Sigüenza was an important Roman settlement and benefitted from their technology and knowledge of agriculture, mining and commerce. Later arrivals included the Visigoths, who had their capital in Toledo, still the capital of Castilla La Mancha today. (See TIM May 2014) Later the Moors arrived and established Islamic religion until the 13th century, making Guadalajara their regional capital. Following the reconquest, the area prospered and attracted the rich and nobility to the city. Unfortunately, the 18th century brought the War of Spanish Succession and heavy fighting saw many buildings destroyed and prosperity suffered. More fighting during the Spanish Civil War (1936-

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Costa Blanca 39) caused further destruction to Sigüenza with many buildings still bearing the scars of the Republican and Nationalist battles. The sun finally appeared as we stood in the plaza admiring the Gothic cathedral, which we visited later in the afternoon to discover a fabulous interior much bigger inside than the impression gained from the exterior. Next we toured the church of St Santiago still in the process of being restored after the Civil War bombardment and church of St Vincent with its coat of arms intentionally positioned off centre over the entrance arch, making it clearly visible to the street opposite enabling people to see it as they walked up to the church. Sigüenza has a medieval feel with its historical buildings, narrow cobbled streets and few cars as the tour guide led us up to the castle, now a Parador Hotel. Panoramic views across the verdant countryside emphasis how remote this little city feels surrounded by rolling green hills and rocky terrain. Before lunch, the musicians from the train reappeared, to lead a procession back down to the Plaza Mayor, where they staged a short concert and play before drawing a sorteo (raffle) for various prizes including a stay at the Parador. Luck did not smile on us so we left empty handed in search of a warming lunch. Restaurants were full with the influx of train excursion visitors but we found a table and enjoyed an excellent Menu Del Dia of hearty food and wine. We strolled around taking more pictures before seeking sanctuary and a coffee in the Parador and chanced upon a unique display of setas – many varieties of mushrooms displayed on a long table in the reception area with signs indicating whether they were toxic or edible. I have never seen so many mushrooms in one place! The foundations of the castle date back to the 5th century and so it has a long history of owners and occupants. It suffered at the hands of the French in 1808 during the war and later with a fire in 1830. Following a huge refurbishment program, it reopened in 1976 as a Parador Hotel. Their site (link below) says. ‘The Parador de Sigüenza is an imposing medieval castle situated in an Arab fortress built atop a Roman settlement. Perfect accommodation, inviting you to enjoy an ancient city, where the stones speak of history, tradition and legend. The hotel’s traditional Castilian furnishings are displayed with fine taste in the spacious, welcoming guest rooms. Some feature canopy beds that will make you feel as if you are lodging in a real palace. Within the thick stone walls there is a cobbled courtyard, a stately dining room and function rooms which are ideal for meetings and celebrations... This was my first experience of a Parador and whilst the setting was opulent with antique furniture, baronial staircases, and a feeling of splendour the service was disappointing. After finally paying for our coffees, we explored further and checked out the local craft shops eager not to miss a bargain or a useful souvenir of this charming little city. The winter sun set early and we began to look forward to our train journey back to Madrid as the cool night air encouraged us into a local bar for a final warming drink, excellent service by the way.

http://www.renfe.com/trenesturisticos/eng/index.html http://www.siguenza.es/ayuntamiento/ http://www.parador.es/en/paradores/parador-de-siguenza

MORE INFO

RENFE operate a selection of ‘Tren Turisticos’ to a variety of destinations.

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TIM Magazine™

New Year 3

Sudoku 1

4 2

Sudoku Solutions

4 2

Sudoku Solutions

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3

1 38


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Fun Pages Crossword

Clues Across

Clues

5

Across

Down

1 Stabilising appendage on a fish’s back (6,3) 8 Baby (slang) (5) 9 Aerosol (7) 10 Over the moon (8) 11 Leg bender (4) 13 Loads and loads (6) 14 Dirty domicile (6) 16 Profound (4) 17 Malign (8) 19 (Of a bedroom) having a private bathroom attached (2,5) 20 Discharge from the eyes and nose (5) 21 Hairy arachnid (9)

1 Worn and shabby (3-5) 2 Country where Omsk is situated (6) 3 Cockeyed (4) 4 UFO (6,6) 5 Jack and Jill, for example (7,5) 6 Region of inter­planetary space — battered soil (anag) (8,4) 7 Man in a woman’s outfit (or viceversa) (5-7) 12 Coffee-flavoured rum drink (3,5) 15 Rich cake (6) 18 Someone from Turku (4)

6

(6) 24 Peak (6) Down

1 Fool — Jim Henson creation (6) 1 Irish potato (6) 4 Flier with wax wings (6) 2 Plant with edible white root (7) 8 Less common (5) 9 Kind of narcissus (but not in fact 3 Boo-boo (5) 5 Brand of Italian vermouth (7) a daffodil!) (7) 6 Set of drinks — set of holes (5) 10 Guitarist Jimi (7) 7 Join two metal surfaces, using 11 Confuse (5) an alloy (6) 12 Hairstyle associated with a 9 Place alongside for comparison mistress of Louis XV (9) 17 Carrying a gun (5) (9) 19 Strong public condemnation 13 Delivery woman? (7) 14 Mass for the departed (7) (7) 21 Moulding between ceiling and 15 Strike out (6) 16 Sentence structure (6) top of a wall (7) 22 Culpability (5) 18 Worth (5) 23 Offspring of a multiple birth 20 Above board (5)

6

5

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TIM Magazine™

Winging it! A view from the pilot’s seat by Chris Pickles, Sol-aero flyers Hope everyone had a good Christmas and are enjoying a break before 2015 kicks in. Thanks to all those who bought flying gift vouchers for their friends and family. I’m feeling a bit lethargic, so I’ve decided to let someone else do the work for me this month! I’ve been trawling the internet for a few Air traffic control funnies, Pilot radio errors, and sarcastic maintenance reports. I’ve listed some of my favourites and I hope you enjoy them! Pilot..Tower this is Eastern 482 ready for departure…be advised there is some sort of dead animal on the end of the runway. Tower..Roger that 482…have you informed your caterers? From Fort Pierce in Florida…the dreaded trainees!

Have you informed your caterers?

Student Pilot..Pierce radio….November 7177, Cessna 172…I’m out of fuel. Radio.. OK…. 7177 maintain control, adopt your best glide speed, put fuel taps and magnetos to the off position, you are number one…All stations, mayday situation..…7177 please state your position and heading. Student pilot..Erm…I’m on the south stand next to a twin Baron….I need fuel…can you call me a fuel truck. Radio..Jeeeus!!…Sir…what I want to call you kinda sounds like fuel truck!!! All stations, cancel Mayday! A cabin crew announcement from the very jovial Kalula Airlines. Stewardess..To fasten your seatbelt, insert the metal tab into the metal buckle….It works exactly the same as a car seatbelt, and if you can’t figure it out then you probably shouldn’t be let out unsupervised. And… Stewardess..Please ensure you have collected all of your personal belongings from the overhead lockers, and under the seats. If you should leave something behind, please ensure that it is something we would like to have. After a particularly bouncy landing from a JETGO (Australia) Pilot Stewardess..Ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of Captain Kangeroo and the crew I’d like to welcome you to Gladstone Airport. Please remain seated until the the aircraft comes to a complete stop before collecting what’s left of your belongings.

Not much respect for pilots!

Defect reported by pilot Left inside main tyre almost needs replacing Whining sound heard on engine shutdown No. 2 ADF needle runs wild Mouse in cockpit No.3 engine missing (mis-firing presumably) Dead bugs on windshield Auto-land very rough

Hope to see some of you in the coming year for both pleasure flights, and flight training. In the meantime I’m going to enjoy the rest of my break. Think I’ll Foxtrot Oscar to the pub! (Think about it!!) Happy New Year Until next time, Chocks away!

Many aircraft carry a snag list for the pilots to complete. This is inspected daily by the maintenance crews and remedial action noted. Maintenance crews don’t usually have much respect for pilots!

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Remedial action taken Almost replaced left main inside tyre Pilot removed Caught and tamed No. 2 ADF needle Installed cat Located No.3 engine on right wing Live bugs on order Auto-land not installed on this aircraft

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rmation call For more info hris/Jan) 95 9661 508 (C 609 685 132 / . rt ve or see main ad


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TIM Magazine™

Horoscopes

December 22nd - January 20th

Aries You’re tired of being pushed around by a business or romantic partner. Proposing alternatives won’t make a difference. Your friend is intent on getting things their way. This is not a satisfying arrangement for you. It’s important for you to have a voice in everything you do together. If that’s not an option, it may be time to part ways. This is easier said than done, since you have a deep emotional attachment. Make the healthiest choice for you, even if it is painful.

Leo Despite having lots to do, you won’t accomplish much. Technical breakdowns, traffic jams and unexpected closures can make the simplest tasks incredibly complex. Give in gracefully instead of forcing the issue. Take this opportunity to catch up on your reading, take a nap or luxuriate in a scented bath. Colleagues may accuse you of being lazy, but that’s just because they lack your good sense. When the world hands you lemons, you make lemonade. It’s a smart way of dealing with stress.

Sagittarius It’s hard to find common ground with frivolous people. You’re not content to follow the herd. You want to lead a meaningful life. Whether this means travelling the world, studying different philosophies or performing good works is immaterial. The important thing is to trust your intuition. Eventually, you’ll meet people who share your interests. Building a social network of like minded people will be comforting. You’re tired of being an outsider. Make friends with people who share your interests.

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Taurus You’re not making any progress at work, which is frustrating. You’re tired of spinning your wheels at a dead end job. Unfortunately, there aren’t many other job options available. You will have to maintain this position until a better one comes along. Be patient. Take this opportunity to spend more time on your favourite activities during your time off. Playing sports, working on creative projects and socialising will make work related stress seem relatively minor.

Virgo

Gemini

Cancer

Work is interfering with all your plans. You want to get away for a prolonged break, but it simply isn’t possible now. Your employer is short staffed and needs all hands on deck. You may have to bow out of a group holiday. If this has been a continual problem, discuss the matter with your boss. You don’t want to be held hostage to this situation. Everybody deserves an occasional break. Quitting is not an option. You have bills to pay and should maintain a steady income.

Family has been disagreeable. You’re tired of playing peacemaker to quarrelling relatives. Instead of getting drawn into another argument, head off on your own. Your best friend or romantic partner may object to your reclusive behaviour, but it can’t be helped. You need some private time to recharge your batteries. It’s been too long since you enjoyed a favourite activity. Give yourself permission to enjoy some exotic cuisine that everyone else dislikes.

Libra

Scorpio

Money may be tight and stop you celebrating in style. Instead of shopping for a new outfit, you’ll have to make do with one you already have. This normally wouldn’t bother you, except you want to make an especially good entrance at a party. Raiding a well dressed friend’s colleague might be a good alternative. It will be strangely exhilarating to wear something totally different from your usual pieces. Adopting a new look will bring out hidden dimensions of your personality.

Your indecision is making others angry. They want to move forward, but you won’t allow them to do so. What would be the worst thing that would happen if you made the wrong choice? Few decisions are irreversible. When in doubt, flip a coin. This may seem like irreverent advice, but that’s because you’re placing too much importance on the matter. Follow your best friend’s lead and take a carefree approach. Being flexible allows you to make the best of any situation.

Capricorn

Aquarius

Opportunities to get ahead are few and far between. This is discouraging for a highly ambitious person like you. Instead of complaining, quietly create an alternative plan. Launching your own business, going into a different line for work or furthering your education are among the possibilities. It will take a long time to put your plans into action. The sooner you formulate a strategy, the better. If there’s anything you hate, it’s being forced to stay in one place.

You’ll be forced to carry out a dull routine. Exploring new territory isn’t possible. Instead of dwelling on your misfortune, find a way to get some intellectual stimulation. Taking an advanced course will be a welcome diversion from boring tasks. At first, a bossy instructor will get on your nerves. Give yourself time to get used to their methods. Eventually, you’ll appreciate their confidence and mastery. If you play your cards right, you can use your newfound knowledge to land an important job.

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You’re tired of hiding from the world. Unfortunately, it will be difficult to reconnect with friends. While you were spending lots of time alone, they were busy forming new connections. You must be patient and persistent about making contact again. Nobody likes feeling rejected. In the future, you must be more forthcoming when you go into seclusion. Explain your need to be alone and make sure others understand you aren’t rejecting them. Introverted people have to work hard to be understood.

Pisces You’re tired of sharing resources with a selfish person. It feels like you’re always getting the smaller portion or inferior choice. Striking out on your own isn’t an option, but it will be. The key is preparation. Save money and acquire valuable skills. Being able to live on your own will take courage. By the time you have built a nest egg, you’ll be ready to take the plunge. Have confidence in your own abilities. You’re more capable than you realise.


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TIM Magazine™

The Royal British Legion in Spain, Pinoso Branch, In a fertile valley surrounded by vineyards is the town of Pinoso, It is a town that has a history of wealth not only in the financial sense from the fantastic wines and abundant harvests and also because of the Marble Mountain which helped this area to prosper and thrive. Moreover Pinoso has a wealth of history and tradition. The Fiestas are wonderful to see and also to be a part of. Pinoso, predominantly Spanish, is a friendly town where the lovely lanes and backstreets can be explored on foot. With only a small British community, the Pinoso branch of the Royal British Legion in Spain has had another positive year in 2014 and raised €5,200 for the Poppy Appeal. Special thanks to members and friends for making this such a successful year.

at Meson Tonet restaurant in Pinoso. For more details, please contact: Branch Secretary. Email: cliveransom1@gmail.com Tel: (0034) 660 344 269

On Friday 12th December 51 Members and Guests from The Royal British Legion in Spain, Pinoso Branch, toured the Salvador Poveda Bodega Salinas followed by an excellent lunch at Abuelo Victor. Some Christmas jumpers added to the festivities. The Pinoso branch of the Royal British Legion in Spain has a full programme of social events throughout the year. Please remember, you do not have to be an ex Member of the Armed Forces to join. Meet people, make new friends and raise money to help the armed forces of yesterday, today and tomorrow. N.B. Monthly Meetings held the last Tuesday of the Month 19:30

Visit our new website at http://www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/pinoso 44

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TIM Magazine™

LA TIENDA DE LA COMUNIDAD DE LA ROMANA The Community Shop of La Romana Your unwanted items are always welcome! Clothes, Household Items, Bric a Brac

HOUSE CLEARANCES A SPECIALITY! Call David on 622 555 654 Calle Mayor 47, 03669 La Romana

Helping the Village to help itself!

PLACE YOUR CHARITY AD ON OUR CHARITY PAGE (ONE SIZE: 95 x 45)

Email: Editor@timspain.com please ensure that when sending charity adverts, that they are accompanied with your Charity Licence Number details and full operating address.

Charity Adverts are placed on this page on a first come first served basis, size 95x45, if you wish to try and obtain a space on this page, please send your advert size 95x45 to editor@timspain.com . We now require all charities to send us copies of their Charity/ Association licence, the name and address of where and in who’s name the charity is registered to and also a copy of the licence holders nie/passport. Failure to supply the aforementioned paperwork will lead to your charity advert being withdrawn or not being entered onto the charity page. Thank You 46

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TIM Magazine™

HONDON VALLEY GOLF SOCIETY CHRISTMAS CHEER FOR CLIVE AT FONT DEL LLOP Clive Dalton was in good form at Font Del Llop to win the Gold Section with 34 points. In the Silver Section John Wilkinson, John

HVGS WINNERS - FONT DEL LLOP GOLF Tuesday 9th December 2014

Sercombe and Ken Cooke all carded 30 points. Malcolm Robins won Bronze with 29 points.

MEMBER

CATEGORY

H’CAP POINTS

There was a festive mood in the air as forty members and

Clive DALTON

Gold Winner

14 34

guests gathered at Font Del Llop in a variety of fancy dress

Koos van BEEK

Gold Runner Up

13 32

costumes and an array of Christmas hats. The December

Malc GREENHAM

Gold Third

13 31

John WILKINSON

Silver Winner

16 30C/B

John SERCOMBE

Silver Runner Up

18 30C/B

Ken COOKE

Silver Third

19 30

Malcolm ROBINS

Bronze Winner

22 29

David FELLOWS

Bronze Runner Up

23 27

Steve INGERSON

Bronze Third

26 25

to give the same support to Steve Munn, the Society’s new

Clive DALTON

Nearest the Pin

Hole 3

Captain. Before announcing the winners of the day Martin

Monty CARR

Nearest the Pin

Hole 8

presented the President’s Trophy to Graham Palmer for his

John WILKINSON

Nearest the Pin

Hole 12

outstanding contribution to HVGS events throughout the

Steve McGUINNESS

Nearest the Pin

Hole 16

Trevor BATCHELOR

Nearest the Pin

Hole 17

Ken COOKE

Two on the Card

Alan CRAIG

Best Guest

Pat COOKE

Best Lady

Bob BERRIMAN

Best Fancy Dress

Knockout Trophy to Jamie Smith. Captain Martin Taylor

Ron GRAHAM

Best Xmas Hat

presented the Kevin Wells Trophy to Ken Cooke and the Bob

Graham BLANK

Green Fee Refund

€40

Watson Trophy to John Wilkinson.

Jamie SMITH

Football Scratchcard

Cardiff City

Stableford was Martin Taylor’s final event as Captain. As usual, Martin organised an excellent day of golf starting on the first and tenth tees. It was a fresh, breezy start to the day but, thankfully, the rain stayed away. After their round all the golfers enjoyed a bocadillo and a drink provided by the Society as they awaited the presentation of prizes in the marquee. Martin Taylor remarked how much he had enjoyed his year as Captain and thanked everyone for their loyal support. He hoped members would continue

year. Four days earlier one hundred and twenty members and guests attended the Presentation and Dinner Dance at Roca Restaurant in Aspe. After a four course meal they were splendidly entertained by the Duo Zodiac and Ian’s Disco. Chairman Ron Graham presented the HVGS Matchplay

21 26

Forthcoming HVGS Golf Days and Other Events Tuesday 13th January Alicante, Meet in the Clubhouse at 08.45 am Tuesday 10th February Alenda, Meet in the Clubhouse at 08.45 am Tuesday 10th March Bonalba, Meet in the Clubhouse at 08.45 am Tuesday 14th April Font Del Llop, Meet in the Clubhouse at 08.45 am

For information on how to join HVGS contact the Secretary, David Fellows, on 965978104 and 649552730 or email davidfellows13@gmail.com . To reserve your place on the list for the Society Golf Days contact the Captain, Steve Munn, on 634326853 or e-mail him at steveandsonya@hotmail.com

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CAMPO GOLF SOCIETY Campo meeting on the 21st of November. At Alenda As always the weather was good and for once all the members turned up and a few new faces. By the time this magazine comes out we would of had our Christmas meeting, so I hope all the members have a Happy new year and your golf is that much better than last year but, as they say you need to practice. Now just to remind you that the next meeting is on the last Friday of the month, at Las Collinas 1st tee 10.30.I am happy to include any member of Hondon Valley butafter I have completed all our members on the list. There are other meetings when Hondon members can play with us if we have room, and we normally all go around in 4.30 hours so you are not out all day. Alenda winners for November Gold winner Koos Beek with 28 points Silver winner Jan Wolde with 38 Cut time N/P on the 5th Ferman Brana N/P on the 13th Alex Amor N/P on the 16th Jan Hendricks L/D on the 10th Koos Beek Regards Brian Johnson Mob 618834774 P.S Any new members please use the above number E-mail: editor@timspain.com • Web site: www.timspain.com

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by Rob Innis

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS

TIM Magazine™

50

Are you one of those people who every January religiously makes New Year’s resolutions but by mid month you have broken them all? Well don’t worry because you are not alone. Perhaps 2015 will be the year that you actually accomplish a few of them or maybe not. Wikipedia says “A New Year’s resolution is a commitment that an individual makes to a project or the reforming of a habit, often a lifestyle change that is generally interpreted as advantageous. Some examples include resolutions to donate to the poor more often, to become more assertive, or to become more environmentally responsible.” Donating to those less fortunate is of course very charitable but in these days of crisis maybe difficult for many to afford. Don’t forget voluntary organisations are frequently looking for helpers. Becoming more assertive might stand you in good stead on many occasions. However, my wife said I couldn’t go the assertive classes. (The old ones are the best) ‘Environment’ is on everyone’s lips now – being green is in and can save you money. Think we ought to have that on our list. Why don’t we get the tricky ones out of the way first. Learn Spanish This one does of course have many obvious benefits. No more getting confused by Iberdrola or Movistar and you could then actually understand their invoices. Always going home with what you actually wanted from the shops or market would be fantastic. So why not just set your sights a little lower and undertake to learn a few more verbs and maybe, even more importantly, improve your pronunciation. It is great having all those verbs and vocabulary but you have to pronounce them correctly to be understood. Action 1 Book Spanish lessons and improve your pronunciation. Also, see this month’s book competition on the Bibliomaniac Page. Get Fit Get fit and lose weight. Another perennial favourite for many of us. Now is a great time to start, we are all to poor after Christmas to buy lots more food and chocolate and it is not too hot to get outside and do some exercise. Why not try walking (not to the bar), or maybe gardening, do not have one – well try an allotment. I recently met an allotment holder here in Spain, yes, they do have them. Afraid of fresh air? Sounds like you are the Gym type so don the latex and hit the abs machine good luck. (You won’t see me there) Action 2 Review options and commit to getting fit and shedding a few pounds/kilos. Give up Smoking Perhaps you will have some help soon if the Spanish lawmakers ever finally make their mind up and sort out the no smoking laws. Action 3 Decide once and for all the nicotine has to go. Apart from those perennial favourites which other ones might be beneficial? New Hobbies We all promised ourselves new hobbies and interests in our retirement or our new life in Spain. So what has been holding you back? There are groups for just about everything (that’s legal) if not why not start your own. Want to write your memoirs – join a writing circle. Always wanted to wield a Nikon camera now is your opportunity. Digital cameras are cheap and no more fussing about loading rolls of film. Plenty of camera clubs around. Drama – showcase your talent on the stage and not in the bath. You will meet new people and have fun. Now those M&S ready meals are not so readily available (who has found a Spanish equivalent, nobody, thought so) Why not buy some of those lovely fresh street market ingredients and start preparing the dishes that you have always wanted too. Alternatively, go for some more Spanish culture and try some local dishes, you might be surprised that you actually like them. So spend less time in front of the TV or computer screen and give some new hobbies a go – you never know what hidden talents you might discover. Action 4 Select new hobby and develop those hidden talents. So, if we were able to commit to all of the above we could become fluent Spanish speaking fit people, preaching about the benefits of non-smoking whilst we rushed around boring people to death with our new hobbies trying to lose the extra weight put on from not smoking. Actually, it’s no surprise we break our new years resolutions is it? E-mail: editor@timspain.com • Web site: www.timspain.com


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The Province of Alicante has more than 70.400 citizens from EU countries that could exercise the right to vote, requesting it before December 30th Diputación de Alicante launches an information campaign about the right to vote for foreign residents 08-12-14.- The next municipal elections in Spain will take place on May 24th 2015, therefore the Department of Foreign Citizens of Diputación de Alicante has launched an information campaign about the right to vote for foreigners living in the Province of Alicante.

information about the requirements and procedures depending on the voter’s nationality are available in the documents published by this Unit. Alicante is, with a total of 70.420, the Province with more EU voters. European residents wishing to vote have to go to the Town Hall where they are registered and have to fill out the formal statement of the intent to exercise the right to vote before December 30th, 2014. On the other hand, non-EU citizens have until January 15th 2015 to do this procedure.

The Electoral Roll Office (Oficina del Censo Electoral) has sent a postal letter to 38.424 European citizens in the province that had not previously communicated their intent to vote, as well as to citizens from the non-EU countries with In the website www.ciudadanosextranjeros.es agreements to vote, to inform them about the you will find all the information available requirements and possibilities to about this procedure in five languages: present the official form either Spanish, English, French, German and using Internet or by post, on Dutch. Furthermore, you will find an the established time informative video, both available limits. in that web and in the Diputación de Alicante’s Youtube Channel, explaining in a dynamic and easy way all the requirements and conditions to exercise the right to vote for EU and non-EU citizens. The Deputy for Foreign Citizens, Mercedes Alonso, has explained that the conditions and time limits to make a formal statement with the intent to exercise the right to suffrage are different for EU and nonEU citizens. All the detailed

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TIM Magazine™

BOXED TRADE ADVERTS

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FIREWOOD 658 626 315 Free kindling and free chimney sweep to all customers who purchase firewood from us. Also Mulch available Fruit tree, Olive and Almond wood cut to size of wood burner

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TIM Magazine™

CLASSIFIEDS BARGAINADS@YAHOO.ES Sell it Fast Sell it For FREE! You can place your unwanted items in our Classifieds section FREE of charge up to the value of 500 euros. Simply text your unwanted items too 680 976 823 or email them to bargainads@yahoo.es remember, no more than 25 words per item and no more than 3 items per household, and please always include what area you live in, we do not take FREE classifieds over the phone. Last day for Free ads is the 18th of the month

If you have an item for sale over 500 euros or if you have a commercial advert and would like them listed in the Classifieds section of the magazine, then call 606 891 644. Closing date for Classifieds in the magazine is the 19th of the month.

Send your small ads for print to BARGAINADS@YAHOO.ES

Advertise Your Classifieds For FREE No Value Restrictions. Sell anything fast at www.timspain.com classifieds, its totally FREE. Sell you House/car/boat or what you have at www.timspain.com

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GENERAL One piece of 10 mm Laminated Glass - 116 cm x 110 cm 40€ 675 360 574 (Beneixama)ç 4-Core Coaxial Cable, 4 separate cables in one sheath 50m reel 65€ ideal for quad LNB also ,Samsung Mobile Phone ,basic model, flip-top, takes any SIM,charger and manual, Pace 2600 Sky Digibox, complete leads and remote, best box for fringe areas ,50€ (San Fulgencio) 690 772 178 Antique leather horse head halter with blinkers, brass studs and bells 45 euros Pinoso Tel 686 456 052 Full set “McGregor Tourney” golf clubs, with bag. 120 euros Also ,”Ferm” electric saw bench ,2000watt, blade 315mm, Tungsten. 110 euros. Aspe area. Tel: 965 495 041 Mob: 676 743 855 Ufesa Super Compact Dehumidifier Model DH3600. With carrying handle, humidity setting, tank full warning light and continuous draining option. In perfect working order. Price 65 Euros .Sideboard with 4 drawers and two cupboards, in very good condition. Measurements: 87cm high x 166cm wide x 42cm deep. 120 Euros. Also Wardrobe in superb 54

condition. Measurements: 208cm wide, 59cm deep and 225cm high. Paid 620 euros will accept 200euros. TV unit with two drawers and two shelves. 52cm high, 116cm long and 42cm deep. In perfect condition. Aspe area. Telephone 651 572 942. Single pine bed for sale ,size 92 cm wide ,30euros contact :Keith 662 036 231 ,Castalla Wii Fit board ,great way to exercise after all the excesses of Xmas Sax 965 474 288 Pair of pendant, 5 - way light fittings suitable for lounge. Complete with ivory shades. Price: 50.00 EUR, pair. 5 - Way pendant light fitting, with translucent glass shades, pale yellow. Price: 30.00 EUR Mahogany gateleg coffee table. L130 * W60 * H40. Inlay top. Good condition. Price: 30.00 EUR Location: Abanilla, Murcia, Spain Phone: 698 436 886 Aviary (metal) for sale. Octagonal 1.5m x 1.5m wide x 2.0m high. Price 100 euros. Phone Lillian 965 708 823. Email roncharris@gmail.com. (Torrevieja, Nr. Centre). Assorted gym equipment, Running Machine, Weights Machine etc €400 2 Matching Display Cabinets and coffee table in light oak color, v.good

condition. Assorted garden equipment including Rotavator, Lawn Mower, Wheel Barrows etc. Catral area 966 190 685 or 600 370 530 moinspain@gmail. com for more information. Lightweight folding transit wheelchair, folds flat for easy transportation in car,purchased in June, very little use, cost 160euros, offers around 80. Folding Zimmer frame, silver, light but very strong, purchased July, hardly used, cost 90euros offers around 45. Aluminium walking stick, height adjustable, four feet for great stability, very light and strong, offers around 25 euros. Phone 962 121 000, mob 696 554 625. Ayora Hydraulic log splitter 2 yrs old gwo, €100. Ambifuego insert gas fire, 65cm x 49cm, coal effect, 5,5kw. Castalla 617 632 094. Netgear 150 Wireless DSL Modem Router. Built-in ADSL2+Modem Bought in error! Cost 49.90€, half price now 25€ or nearest offer. Macisvenda area. 655 692 487 Satellite finder, signal strength meter for accurate positioning of dishes brand new in box, 30 euros Hondon tel 663 654 051 Ambi fuego coal effect fire, good working order 250 euros Albatera Tel 965 970 163

E-mail: editor@timspain.com • Web site: www.timspain.com

110 Hard and soft back books only read once as new 25 Jigsaws some still not opened 100 euros ono 965 070 842 Salinas Sewing machine, semiindustrial overlocker 3 thread. New, never used due to illness, still in box, cost 450 Euros, 270 Euros or near offer. Large Mirror, gilded frame , 1 metre 62 (64” x 33” ) cost 100 Euros , offers phone 622 615 756 or e-mail tier neyj3322@yahoo.co.uk CAUDETE Handcrafted Solid Pine upholstered garden sofa & armchair, with removable squabs 120€. Circular [ 1m diameter ] Opaque Glass top garden table & 4 chairs, metal grey/brown finish...75€ Philips Saeco ‘Poemia’ Espresso Coffee Machine, top of the range – still boxed - cost 160€ will accept 80€ sold with supply of ‘Blue Mountain’ coffee. Telephone 695 738 138 – Pinoso area. Single size folding guest bed(ZBed) unused in dust cover 50euros Artists folding easel including brushes and paints and pallet. Unused,would make lovely Xmas present. 30 euros. Reclining Push Chair, good clean condition 25euros .Travel Cot in carrybag, used twice. Immaculate.15euros All items can be delivered locally. Phone Pam at 07974 567 927


Costa Blanca Cream leather 3 piece suite with pouffe, good condition. 450 euros. 3 piece terrace suite, whicker, with fitted cushions and 2 matching glass topped tables. 450 euros. “Ferm” electric saw bench, 2000 watt. Blade 315mm, Tungsten. 110euros. Aspe area. Tel: 965 495 041 Mob: 676 743 855 2x Christmas outdoor light swags. Lights 2.5m long, each with 10m supply cable - €10 each. 2x Blow up “Campingaz” single mattresses. One 188cm x 73cm, the other 198cm x 74cm - €15 each or €25 for both. Brother HL-1250 mono laser printer, with toner - €50. Water butt (210 Litre) with cover, stand and new tap - €40. Wooden CD Rack, stores 92 CD’s, excellent condition - €25 Hondon de las Nieves. (Urb. La Montañosa) Tel: 618 783 640 Sony DAV-F200 DVD?TV Home Entertainment Sound Theatre System, Excellent Condition, little used, great for Xmas entertainment...125€ .Philips Saeco ‘Poemia’ Espresso Coffee Machine, top of the range – still boxed, ideal Xmas present, cost 160€ will accept 80€ sold with supply of ‘Blue Mountain’ coffee. BBQ...Charcoal, W 70cm, D 42cm, H 30cm, Flat bed type [ free standing on a base, or can be built in ] Easy clean removable ash tray, 3 cooking heights, c/w cooing racks, little used...50€ Telephone 653 200 682 [ Pinoso area ]

Peak Transport, Vince Webster Large Van UkSpain-Uk, Monthly runs, competitive quotes, reliable, friendly service. Telephone 690 818 090 and Uk mobile 0750 492 7034 email: spain2ukpeaktrans @yahoo.co.uk

VEHICLES

CASH CASH

CASH

INSTANT CASH WAITING Cars Vans M/Bikes Quads etc. MOTOR VEHICLES SCRAPPED ALL LEGAL PAPERWORK ISSUED

COLLECTION SERVICE Tel Phil (Fortuna) 607 848 332

Honda Deaauville NTV 650, itv 2015 Dec, 2002 reg, Burgundy,54,000 km, Spanish bike very good condition, garaged all the time 1,750 euros Tel 655 093 333 2nd hand cars bought and sold Tel 691 260 502

WANTED

SERVICES

CLUBS/MEETINGS MANIPURA YOGA CASTALLA - Classes in Yoga and Pilates Wednesday and Friday Mornings 10.00am - Tai-Chi Thursdays at 10.00am and Classes in Kundalini Yoga Monday and Wednesday Evenings at 19.30 .All Classes in English and Spanish. We are situated in the Castalla countryside, for more information and location Tel 607 754 009 yoga.manipura@ hotmail.com Photography Club” Are you interested in taking photo’s, then come along to a new Photography Club Every 3rd. Wednesday evening of the month at Castalla International. Starting 16th October 2014 at 7.30pm. This is open to all photographers no matter what skills you have or what make or type of camera. If you are interested ring Brian on 617 156 960 or 666 136 611 Why not join the Torrevieja Eurobikers & see & ride some of the best roads in the area..We ride out from La Siesta -Torrivieja every Saturday . Meet 10am depart 10.30am throughout the year . Everyone welcome multi national & whatever make of bike you have as long as it is capable of keeping up, 250cc plus .Meet at the cafe by the garage La Siesta.opposite the Waikiki bar. For more information ring Bill 678 385 308 or visit our website http:// www.eurobiker-torrevieja.com/ We are looking for more English speaking people for Language exchange every Monday in the Library Gran Via Sax 10am till 11.30 am Thank You

Qualified carer available for personal one to one care Tel Barbara 675 874 665

Is there a reflexologist and a palmist in the Hondons area tel 639 564 242 Wanted Green house or poly tunnel. Phone Pinoso 966 966 072 or 633 38 67

BADMINT0N AT PILAR DE LA HORADADA Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs. 10-1pm. For information ring John McGilvray on 966 786 774 or Mobiles 634 658 506/695 871 707 or e mailcarolejohn_3@hotmail.com A group of us meet every Thursday at the Sunset Cafe on the n332 in Cabo Roig for rideouts. We are multi-national,

E-mail: editor@timspain.com • Web site: www.timspain.com

and all makes of motorcycle are welcome. for more info contact Rob on mollyandbaileybassett@ hotmail.com

EVENTS PARTY YOURSELF INTO SHAPE THIS NEW YEAR!! Ditch the Workout, Join the Party!! Zumba Fitness Classes with Licensed Zumba Instructor in Pinoso, Fortuna, the Hondons. For details contact Donna 966 195 876 / 699 408 773 www. zumbaiberia.com MOVE AT YOUR OWN PACE ZUMBA GOLD Mon/Wed 09.30 Castalla Internacional. PARTY YOURSELF INTO SHAPE ZUMBA FITNESS Tue/Thu 09.15 Villena with licenced instructor JUDITH 603 438 384 NEED HELP TO LOSE WEIGHT THIS NEW YEAR? Weight Management Classes with Judith. Castalla Internacional Mondays 10.45 Call 603 438 384

PETS Ex SSPCA Aux Officer, is offering a Pet Sitting Service, in my very secure home. If you feel your pet or pets would not settle well in a kennel, this could be the answer for you. I am offering a home environment with lots of company, walks and some training if necessary. Please call for more info on 968 619 870. or see me on Facebook Pet Villa Pet Sitting. DOG loving couple, willing to care for your dog(s) in our home on a 1-2-1 basis,no other dog in home while yours in residence. Seven years experience, references available. Reasonable rates, Pinoso area. For further details please ring 966195501, or e mail.( preferred) desyinspain@ hotmail.com

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TIM Magazine™

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES We are English Company specializing in traditional furniture, due to increased interest from the European market; we are now looking for established traders in Spain and Europe to supply/ sell our products. If you feel that your company can help expand our market place please contact Lucy Myers at thegoodshelfcompany@gmail. com

CHARITIES RATS La Romana Amateur Theatre Society Present Jack and the Beanstalk Fri 23rd January at 8pm Sat 24th January at 3pm & 8pm at the Casa de Cultura La Romana Tickets 5 euros each The Samaritans cover the whole of Spain and operate 24/7. We also have a drop off centre and charity shop at Punta Prima off N332 24 hour Helpline 902 88 35 35 or email pat@ samaritansinspain.com

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A GREAT GIFT for just €6,50 : 2015 CALENDAR with Spanish and English national holidays. It features interesting characters, buildings, places and events in and around Fortuna. Will be appreciated by family, friends, neighborsor simply to adorn your own casa. ALL PROCEEDS TO GO TO CARITAS CHARITY ,who help those in need. Contact info@alegriasingersfortuna. com or telephone 634381057 / 676 014 877

tax. 963 146 701, workshop/ garage/store available. Have you got a property that you want to rent out? why not place it here, all you need to do is email bargainads@yahoo.es today with your classified rental listing.

EMPLOYMENT

PROPERTY RENTALS

NEW PROPERTIES URGENTLY REQUIRED IN THE SAX/SALINAS/ PINOSO/VILLENA AREAS. FABFINCAS IS A FULLY LEGAL & INDEPENDENT AGENCY.

NO SALE - NO FEE.

House to rent, center of Salinas, 3 beds, furnished, small outside space, short term or long term, 200 euros per month ex bills. Tel 0044 1924 865 668 or 0044 7583 100 143 email petermcshane@ ymail.com For long term rent,3 bed fully furnished period property, recently refurbished, small fenced garden, more land available, quiet country location, short distance from village La Font de la Figuera, 300 euros per month, INCLUDING water, electric and council

PROPERTY SALES

Contact Steve or Claire on 965 474 314 / 675 218 436 or email fabfincas@gmail.com Website: www.fabfincas.com Classified items email: bargainads@yahoo.es

E-mail: editor@timspain.com • Web site: www.timspain.com


Costa Blanca

FAB FINCAS FAB Pr oper ti es • FA B P rice s • FA B S e rv ic e

Tel: 965 474 314 • Mob: 675 218 436 www.fabfincas.com • fabfincas@gmail.com Apartado de Correos 3, 03630. Sax. Alicante

INDEPENDENT

established agent. Voluntary Sax - Ref: ff0429

Monovar - Ref: ff0765

Villena - Ref: ff0756

Lovely villa close to town. 5 beds, 2 baths Swimming pool, outbuildings Walk to town. Huge reduction now 134,995 euros

Huge village house 6 beds, 2.5 baths Pool, outbuildings & garden Be ideal B & B /guesthouse

Villa with casita 4 beds, 3 baths Large conservatory Very well presented

Only 169,995 euros

Now 154,995 euros

Sax - Ref: ff0683

Pinoso - Ref: ff0739

Villena - Ref: ff0738

Sax - Ref: ff0642

Deceptively spacious villa 4 beds, 2 baths Fully fenced plot of 3,200m2 Gorgeous views

Modern villa with pool 4 beds, 2 baths Central heating Roof terrace

Very well presented villa 4 beds, 2 baths, Separate casita, Swimming pool & entertaining area

Large villa with outbuildings 6 beds, 2 baths Swimming pool Great for B & B /Guesthouse

Only 159,995 euros

Reduced - now 169,950 euros

Only 199,995 euros

Now 154,995 euros

Pinoso - Ref: ff0768

Sax - Ref: ff0580

Two penthouses made into one 4 beds, 3 baths, Could be put back to 2 apts. Also 6 car garage spaces included

Bargain country house 3 beds, 1 bath Swimming pool Conservatory

Town house with basement 3 beds, 1 bath Garage Short walk to town

Price 230,000 euros

Only 88,000 euros

Reduced - now 57,000 euros

Villena - Ref: ff0645

Sax - Ref: ff0766

Monovar - Ref: ff0767

Salinas - Ref: ff0752

Villa with pool 4 beds, 2 baths Workshop & outside BBQ Large covered terrace

Beautifully presented villa 4 beds, 3 baths Central heating Swimming pool

Magnificent villa 5 beds, 3 baths Covered telescopic pool Incredible views

Spacious villa 3 beds, 3 baths Outbuildings Roof terrace

Reduced - now 169,950 euros

Now 169,995 euros

Now 283,000 euros

Only 169,000 euros

member of the AIPP for your peace of mind

Sax - Ref: ff0758

E-mail: editor@timspain.com • Web site: www.timspain.com

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