The Inland Magazine by TIM Admin

G RATIS - F RE E

M E N S UAL - MO N TH LY - MARZO - MARCH 20 1 0

Costa Blanca

MARCH COVER PHOTO

Inland and Coastal

Location: This months front cover

Distributing to more than 125 Towns & Villages Distribuimos en más de 125 pueblos.

was taken in Jucar del Alcali

Welcome to the 64th edition of The Inland Magazine.

PÓNGASE EN CONTACTO CONTACT US

The month of February was a very sad month for us here at the magazine, as it saw the passing of one of our very first contributors to the magazine. Paul Webb who sadly passed away in the month of February at the very tender age of 38 years.

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For those of you who have been reading and picking up the magazine from our early days, you would most possibly not know the name Paul Webb, but you may well recognise the name “Pablo”. Pablo very kindly reviewed and wrote many a restaurant review for the magazine in our very early days, and indeed, he helped us along in our direction by doing so. All our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time, and it goes without saying that he will be sadly missed by us here at the magazine.

Nickie (Alicante region)

Last months competition winner was Mr J. Waterman of Rojales, who spotted bully hiding on page 11 on the Akasha design advert, so our congratulations to our lucky winner. There is another 50 euros up for grabs in this edition, simply find the bull which has been placed on one of our advertisers adverts, and fill in the entry coupon on page _ _ _ .

606 891 644

This month will also be the last time that Paul Lock will be doing his motoring column for the magazine, as Paul has been offered a job with Renault back in the Uk that was simply too good to turn down. So we would like to thank Paul for all his hard work during his time writing for us, and wish him all the best for the future in what ever he may do.

theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk

John Chandler (Murcia region)

Don’t forget, you can now place your property rental FREE of charge, for a year including photo’s, description and your contact details on our new rental web site at www.europeanpropertyrentals. eu this is a limited time offer, so be quick and place your rental property for FREE now.

620 042 601 john.theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk

ickie

Adrian David ( Mazarron & Cehigen ) 687 888 033

What’s Inside

Going Bonkers In Benidorm Aromatic Plants For The Garden Motoring Bibliomaniac Page Spanish Naming System Going Out European Kitchen Interview with Hazzell Dean All Home Grown Photography Book Reviews Hondon Valley Golf Society Bargain Adverts

OR YOU CAN CALL:

Richard: 638 026 230 (Alicante Region) Dennis: 617 843 028 Orihuela Costa Angela Holst: 622 792 563 (Español) angela.theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.timspain.com E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk Our Bank Transfer Number: 2090 0038 0300 8400 2540 or write to T.I.M. Apartado de Correos 285 03630 SAX (Alicante)

DISCLAIMER TIM is an independently published magazine and cannot accept any responsibility for claims or advice given in articles or advertisements and reserves the right to withdraw or alter material without notice. It is advisable for the reader to check information prior to acting on it.

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FECHA TOPE PARA ANUNCIAR ES EL DÍA 20 Deposito Legal: A-1065-2004

La revista T.I.M no se hace responsable de los errores cometidos o de las ideas u opiniones expresadas por los colaboradores o anunciantes. Mientras tengamos un cuidado razonable, los publicistas no tendremos culpa ninguna por insatisfactoria que resulte cualquier transacción realizada atravez de la revista.

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RENUNCIA

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Going Bonkers Words and photos by Rob Innis This article follows on from last months ‘Saga Louts in Benidorm’ Relaxing with a G and T in the four-star hotel Melias vast comfortable lounge bar, whilst a pianist provided background music, I began to wonder what the Benidorm nightlife held in store. There was only one way to find out. So we left the tranquillity and comfort of the Melia to venture out into the Benidorm night. A short walk in fresh December evening air into the town centre. Whilst the shops were closing for the day, nightime establishments were coming alive. The daytime hustle and bustle had subsided, but remember this was an early December night. Doubtless the scene would be very different during summer time. Even though the streets were quiet, the bars were not, with their rock bottom crisis prices making it is a drinkers and partygoer’s paradise. First stop: a huge bar themed on a ship with an Abba tribute band going for it at full decibels, whilst the packed crowd of pensioners (Saga Louts) sat sipping their drinks. It reminded me of a northern working men’s club but around 1,500 miles south in the heart of Benidorm. Back to Abba or should I say AA because it was just two girls – how can you be Abba without two girls and two boys? Time to move on. Thinking ‘Don’t let the volume wreck your hearing folks’ but it probably fell on deaf ears. (It gets better) Outside the nightlife was in full swing with all the bars employing street based canvassers to persuade passers by to spend money in their establishment with promises of ‘We have the cheapest drinks and best acts in town.’ Which was somewhat strange. Because plenty of the acts work most of the bars every night. Quick 40-minute ‘turn’ (act) then dash up the road for a repeat performance. A groupie’s delight, just follow your favourite act to the next venue and see it all again, with no door cover charges. My daytime sidekick was also sharing his nightime Benidorm knowledge, which included ‘We can’t miss Francisco Jackson’, so into another bar to catch his act. The Jackson look, music, and dancing but obviously he was a bit schizophrenic because all of sudden he started producing doves – Michael (Francisco) Jackson does real magic, well it beat Paul Daniels, for me at least. However, the night held many more surprises. Next up Rod Stewart – but first we needed a pit stop for food, plans for full meal abandoned through lack of time, so we hit the deserted KFC, my first time in over 10 years in Spain. What can I say? Fast food, fast indigestion, and back to the non-stop action. Next offer on the street, without any subtle marketing or displaying of their wares, unlike their Torrevieja area counterparts (OK the night was coolish) were two ladies 2

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in Benidorm looking for male company, at a price. That was the only thing they readily revealed. (50€.) Easy decision - onto the Rod Stewart act, which was terrible. I have always enjoyed the great man but this guy was crucifying him. However, who cares we were in Benidorm having fun. At least I was, as the video proves. What will those mobile phones do next? (No the video is not on general release) We were approaching the nights climax, metaphorically speaking, as the place filled up with aged travelling groupies (from her last show down the road) who quickly grabbed front row tables. You may have heard of the legendary Sticky Vicky one of Benidorm’s more famous, in her own name, entertainers. The crowd waited and waited, bar sales increased, and then the big moment – the star appeared. Unfortunately, she was obviously suffering some form of heat stroke, as she felt the need to remove all of her clothes. However, being a trouper the show must go on and it did. As a good book reviewer cannot reveal the end of a book, a good show reviewer cannot reveal all of the acts unusual surprises. And boy were there surprises, magical ones and made ones that made your eyes water. Enough said. Well it was all harmless fun, time to head back to the hotel. Another street encounter with the ladies still searching for clients, business was slow, and we did not speed it up. So what is the bottom line? You can think Blackpool, kiss me quick, tacky - but Benidorm offers something for everyone. From grand pianos to ‘magical’ acts and doubtless plenty more. It must do. Otherwise, millions would not spend their holidays there. It is clean, modern, safe, cheap (even four star) and something different if not unique. Try it you might be surprised you might actually like it. I did (there I admitted it) and no airport queues to get home, marvellous. My thanks go to TJ Miles (check him out on the TIM blog, he is one of our Dream Team) for sharing his Benidorm knowledge but not sharing the video. More photos: http://picasaweb.google.es/Robi1305

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Aromatic Plants for the Garden

OREGANO....or is it MARJORAM?

by Barbara Barton

There is a lot of confusion around these two herbs. Some gardening reference books call oregano “wild marjoram” and vice versa. Many recipes also suggest the two herbs are interchangeable. The one thing we do know, is that both plants are part of the Mint family As ever with these sorts of things it is down to individual taste, personally I find it hard to differentiate between them but if really pushed then I would say that Oregano has the more pungent flavour, however both are highly aromatic in the garden. History books tell us that in Tudor England, Oregano was one of the socalled strewing herbs. The herbs were literally strewn over the floors so that as you walked over them, they released their aroma. A sort of early version of the automatic air freshener, and it was said to be a favourite of Elizabeth 1. In terms of growing these herbs then luckily the same rules apply for both. In our climate they are both hardy perennials and will do well in a sunny position. Plant in a light, well drained soil or in a pot. Established plants should be watered weekly in the growing season and through the hot summer months. Although Marjoram does prefer not to dry out too much, Oregano will tolerate drier conditions. Neither plant will grow huge; they are generally a compact bushy plant and look very good as an edging to a herb garden or a flower border. Flowers will be pinkish white or purple depending on the variety. If you want to use the leaves for cooking then it’s advisable to snip off flowers as they appear and keep the plant trimmed. At the end of the year, cut them right back and they will then thicken up and make better plants for the coming spring When it comes to using these herbs then the dish most commonly associated with Oregano is pizza. It has been 4

suggested that Oregano became popular in the US when returning WW2 soldiers brought it back with them from Italy. It has a more pungent, robust flavour than Marjoram and is often used in tomato based sauces. Marjoram is the sweeter of the two and is probably better with chicken and with cheese or egg dishes. I have chosen a recipe using Oregano for the simple reason that it’s my favourite of the two herbs. Chorizo Baked Eggs (serves 4) Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil 150g of chorizo, roughly chopped 50g serrano ham, roughly chopped 1 red pepper, diced 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 2 tsp paprika 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes I tbsp chopped fresh oregano 150ml hot vegetable stock 8 medium eggs 100g Cheddar cheese, grated (optional) Method: Oven temp 180c Heat the oil in a non-stick saucepan, add the chorizo and ham and gently fry for 5 minutes. Lift these out onto a plate. Add the red pepper and onion to the oil left in the pan. Increase the heat and fry for 6-7 minutes, until soft. Add the garlic and paprika to the pan and fry for 1 minute. Stir in the tomatoes, oregano, hot stock and reserved chorizo and ham. Simmer for 12-15 minutes, until the sauce has reduced slightly. Spoon into 4 shallow ovenproof dishes. Break 2 eggs, spaced apart, into each dish and scatter over the cheese. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the eggs are set to your liking. Serve with crusty bread to mop up the juices.

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H E A LT H FITNESS &

by Chris Haney WEIGHT TRAINING Weight Training is very useful part of a fitness-training programme, which should also include aerobic, and flexibility, a balanced diet and stress management. Here is some other beneficial information you should know about weight-training or resistance exercise, which sometimes gets a bad press but in my opinion the negative reactions are a mis-conception. THE EFFECTS OF AGE After the age of about 30, most men and women naturally lose a little strength and muscle every year , until, by the age of about 75, 25% of men and 75% of women can no longer lift over 10 lbs, and remember as a 30 or 40 year old, we all in time get to 70 something!!! MUSCLE POWER Full physical fitness is more complex than the mere capacity of the heart to pump oxygen round the body and feed the muscles. Exercises that resist muscles, like weight training can build in the lean muscle power that can compliment our overall fitness. Stronger muscle power is beneficial not only to competitive athletes, but also to anyone going about their daily life, ‘working out’ in the garden, odd jobs around the house, long walks, and we have all woken up next day sore and stiff if we have overdone the activity, because our body has not been in the condition to withstand moving 10 tons of gravel!!! Having stronger muscles will help ward off fatigue prevents injuries and supports you to keep you in good shape and your skeletal system in alignment. PHYSICAL FITNESS Many recent studies have shown that while regular low level of aerobic

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exercise can seem to reduce the risk of some degenerative conditions, such as hypertension, cardiac and diabetes for example, the added benefit of weight training can help with the metabolic balance of insulin and cholesterol. Only weight training can change your physical shape, by increasing bone density and therefore improving posture, and toning muscles to replace the fat you lose from your aerobic exercise. Remember muscle and fat are two different tissues and one cannot turn into the other, you simply replace not change. A very good analogy to remember is that a pound of fat is the size of tennis ball and a pound of muscle is the size of a squash ball!!! LOSING WEIGHT We know that just taking aerobic exercise will not be enough to produce long-term weight loss, but the combination of weight training and a balanced diet will improve results of weight loss, both short and long term. Using weight training helps keep lean body mass (mostly muscle), increases energy output and aids the burning of calories during digestion. Weight training can actually increase your metabolic rate, because as we tone our muscles, the muscle density increases therefore the need for oxygen to supply the improved muscle fibres throughout our body increases on a 24/7 basis, even when we sleep!!! Just dieting can actually cause muscle loss, which in turn makes the metabolism less efficient. This is why it becomes increasingly hard to continue losing weight. The important thing is to exercise frequently and over longer periods rather than in short, intense bursts. Chris Haney is your local Personal Trainer based in Hondon de los Frailes, at the Esport Gym, but if you require any further advice please contact him on 679 008 021.

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MOTORING

by Paul Lock

Hello and welcome to the March motoring column. Bit of a sad one

has the door opening remote built in. It is a normal working watch,

for me this, but that can wait till the end! I guess that the only topic of

but has a touch screen, that unlocks and locks the doors. It took 18

conversation for you motoring enthusiasts lately, is Toyotas problem

months to develop because of all the micro circuitry and transponders

with the Prius. As you know, I am a great fan of this particular car,

that had to be built in to it. The watch is actually really classy and has

but sadly, it has developed a VERY serious fault with the electronics.

a sapphire face, but for that money, I would hope so too!!

But first the floor mat issue. This is the one that caused the crash in the Us which resulted in a couple of deaths. What was happening was

Anyway on to the sad bit. This will be the last time I will be doing

the floor mat in the drivers footwell has not been secured properly,

the car column, as due to personal reasons, I am returning to the UK.

and was slipping over his accelerator pedal and causing the pedal

I have been offered my old job at Renault UK, so I have decided to

to jam wide open. Quite scary really, I should imagine. As I said

take up the post. I have really enjoyed writing my monthly articles for

this happened to family in the US with catastrophic results. The fix

you, and I hope you have all enjoyed reading them. I sincerely hope

was basically a mat securing clip, which was fitted incorrectly at the

that all of you, who have used my services over the years, have been

factory, being fitted by dealers under warranty. The second fault was

happy with the service that I have provided. I have really enjoyed

with the software on the computer controlled traction control unit.

meeting all my customers over the years, and will miss you all. I am

This fault was causing a temporary loss of braking via the ABS, in

leaving my business in the very capable hands of a mechanic friend of

slippery conditions. All this needed was a trip to the dealers, and

mine, Kevin Mcgarry, who lives in Castalla. He is a good mechanic,

a reprogramme of the on board computer system. Ok so all in all,

and a nice guy, and I hope you will show him the same amount of

probably for both recalls, about 15 mins work. But it is going to cost

confidence as you have done in me. If you need him, he is taking my

Toyota millions in warranty work and of course in the long scheme

phone number over, so you can contact him on 679551665. Please

of things, loss of confidence from the public, causing a drop in sales

show him your support if at all possible.

worldwide. Somewhere in the region of 8 million cars need to be recalled, for the faults that have materialised.

Thanks everyone, it has been a pleasure writing a column for the folks at the magazine and for you the readers and indeed the many

As you know, I like a bit of technology and gadgets in cars. This

of you who have become my loyal customers. Take care always and

one is a blinder. If you are rich enough to be able to afford an Aston

drive safely.

Martin Rapide, you can now get a bit nearer to being James Bond. If you want to shell out £22,500 you can order a Jaeger watch that

Kindest regards and Adios Paul Lock.

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Bibliomaniac Page By David John

Is it the End for the Book? Similar to the world of music the internet is now affecting the traditional world of book publishing. Not only in terms of how and where we buys books, internet sales are now taking a huge percentage of the market, but also the format. Electronic book reading devices have been around for a while, especially in America with their Kindle system introduced by Amazon. Now they are starting to arrive in Europe with plenty of other manufacturers anxious to get their product into what could be a very lucrative market. I asked Kindle owner (and TIM blogger) TJ Miles to share his views on the product with us: ‘Kindle - the next generation’ this latest version is sleeker, slimmer, smaller and apparently has the ability to hold up to 1500 books (More than enough for me on any flight or train journey!) and so is an improvement on the Mk 1. Priced at around £200 it is not cheap, but for me, the positives • The screen really is ‘glare free’ even in Spain making it very easy to read the text, which is adjustable in size. • It is easy to carry around, very light weight. • Almost instant low costs (cheaper than traditional books) download of books from the Amazon store. • Ease of use and navigability - quickly mastered, never forgotten. • It will read to you, albeit in a robotic voice. Minuses include - the robotic voice. A notable shortage of modern day European book titles - though I have been informed things are improving as more countries, and titles, are added to the Kindle family. One final and possibly important point - don’t try to read your Kindle while sitting in your Jacuzzi - not if you don’t want to short circuit your Shakespeare’s with your Balzac’s. Thanks TJ, for that invaluable Kindle insight. So is the 2nd decade of the 21st century going to be remembered as the one when traditional books started to die as these new devices hit the market? For more see You Tube search ‘Kindle’ or have your say on the TIM Forum - www.timspain.com This Months Spanish Book Review: Winter in Madrid CJ Sansom The setting is post Spanish civil war torn Madrid. Complicated politics are at play between the Spanish, Germans and British with the books 10

characters all having different motives for being in Madrid. Bonded by having been at public school together their lives once again become entangled in a web of greed, intrigue and romance. I found this book extremely well written with believable characters trying to survive in a Madrid facing political collapse and starvation. CJ Sansom manages to combine graphic images of what life must have been like at that time and a story that will keep you engrossed until the final page. Historical fiction at its best. Available from Amazon.co.uk or Play.com as well as good bookshops. Costa Blanca Authors Profile Nik Morton moved to the Costa Blanca with his musical director wife Jennifer in 2003 and they enjoy the climate and lifestyle, which is most conducive to writing, singing and composing music. Writing as Ross Morton, Nik has western novels published: Death at Bethesda Falls, Last Chance Saloon and The $300 Man (Robert Hale). He is the author of the crime thriller Pain Wears No Mask and two psychic spy Cold War thrillers The Prague Manuscript and The Tehran Transmission (Libros International) and he is the editor of A Fistful of Legends, 21 stories of the Old West (Express Westerns). He has had many articles and illustrations and over 90 stories published. He won the ‘Bookawards’ 2010 short story competition with ‘Codename Gaby’ See http://thebookawards.com/. This year his fantasy quest Wings of the Overlord is due from Libros International, and two paperback anthologies will feature his stories. Find Nik at www.freewebs.com/nikmorton and http://nik-writealot. blogspot.com. For a chance to win a FREE signed copy of one of Nik’s books, see page 18. Book News Many talented new writers who are not fortunate enough to claim ‘celebrity’ status are finding great difficulty in getting their work published, and even greater problems with obtaining any form of money in advance. Due to the public’s apparent obsession with ‘Celebs’ only the already rich and famous can secure lucrative book deals. Take for instance Tony Blair. Random House publishers are reportedly advancing him 4.6 million to write his memoirs. Ironically publishers lost a small fortune when his wife’s recent book, ‘Speaking for Myself’ flopped, selling a mere 23,000 copies. A fact illustrated by the Book Army web site – total reader reviews online er zero actually. Love him or hate him Jeffrey Archer has bounced back with an 18 million pound deal to write an epic family saga entitled ‘Clifton Chronicles’ which will consist of five books spanning a century in the lives of a fictitious Bristol family.

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SUDOKU CROSSWORD

FUN PAGE FUNNY

ACROSS

DOWN

1. See to, looks after affairs (11) 9. Without possible explanation (13) 10. Spurned (8) 12. Colour (4) 14. Dress or decorate (5) 15. Planet’s path (5) 19. Scott’s last resting place! (4) 20. Italian noble family (8) 22. Relating to embarrasing complaint (13) 24. Dizzy (11)

2. Worthless, of no use (3) 3. Lacking confidence (8) 4. Middle Eastern Country (6) 5. Type of jug (4) 6. Uprising (9) 7. Chronological list of events (5) 8. Chop off limb (5) 11. Ruling (9) 13. Type of eye infection (8) 16. Irritating (5) 17. common name for the star Alpha Andromedae (6) 18. Approach furtively (5) 21. Lake (4) 23. Deer (3)

A man goes into a pet shop to buy a parrot. The shop owner points to three identical looking parrots on a perch and says: “The parrot on the left costs $500 dollars”. “Why, does the parrot cost so much?” asks the man. The owner says, “Well the parrot knows how to use a computer”. The man then asks about the next parrot and is told that this one costs $1,000 dollars because it can do everything the first parrot can do plus it knows how to use the UNIX operating system. Naturally, the increasingly startled man asks about the third parrot and is told that it costs $2,000 dollars. Needless to say this begs the question, “What can it do?” To which the owner replies, “To be honest I have never seen it do a thing but the other two call him boss!”

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Costa Blanca

Hello and welcome to this month’s feature. Sky have just launched a 1Terrabyte Sky+ HD recorder and made it the standard box for new customers. It costs £249 in the UK, and will be able to store an incredible 240 hours of High Definition TV, or 740 hours of Standard Definition programmes.

You can have a Sky+ HD recorder here in Spain without the need for a phone line, and also, you do not now need to subscribe to the HD channels each month if you don’t want to but will still be able to use the recording function. Please note, you cannot bring one out here if has just been installed in the UK to a phone line (I have mentioned this before with regards to multi-room).You

do however, still need to have a Sky subscription either set up in the UK, or over here through a local Installer. Something to be aware of is that not all makes of receiver have the same strength tuners inside them, which basically means that some makes will perform here better than others. The only way to know which is the better one is really to go by recommendation - I have found

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that the Samsung and Amstrad Sky+HD receivers have proved to be trouble-free, whilst Pace, Amstrad and Thompson Sky+ receivers are generally good allround performers here as well.(This is only my own humble opinion!!!!!). As always, please call or email if you have any questions. Regards, Lee

The Inland Magazine™

FC Chaplins

Chaplin’s would likely have won that game so effectively they have lost 6 points in total, leaving them now on 19 points and not 25. They are now in 5th and 15 points adrift of promotion but there are still 12 games left to play. It’s going to be an interesting finish….

FC Chaplin’s have been busy, taking 9 points from a possible 15. Their 5 game run started with a bitter tussle against 2nd placed Oranje Travel which saw Oranje scraping a 2-1 victory after Chaplin’s had conceded two cheap goals in the first half. Chaplin’s followed this disappointment with a 5-4 victory over Quinta Del 50 with 2 goals from Sergio Gutierrez and a brilliant hat-trick by Carlos Parkin. Next came a 2-1 win over Sunplaces Sport after outstanding goals by Ross Musk and Danny Stirling gave them sweet revenge over a team that dubiously beat them 1-0 first time around. Chaplin’s then absolutely annihilated Nesea/Mar Azul 9-4 on a cold, wet and muddy day. This time the hat-trick honours went to Sergio Gutierrez with Ivan Gomez and Jay O’Gara netting a brace each, Cameron Parker bagging one and Lawrence Mentesh scoring his first ever goal for the Club.

If you would like to keep an eye on FC Chaplin’s please visit their website at www.fcchaplins.com.

However, the real talking point is the ridiculous sanction issued to both Chaplin’s and Benidorm Plaza after they were unable to play their match due to a waterlogged pitch. By mutual consent and with the referee’s blessing the teams arranged to play the match at a later date but incredulously the League took a strop and hit both teams with a 3 point deduction and decided that the un-played match should go down as a 3-0 loss to BOTH teams. Crazy!

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Costa Blanca

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Spanish naming system

by Chris Thompson

henever Barclaycard or RACE telephone me to tell me about some unmissable offer they seem determined to call me Sr. John. That’s because on their records they have my name as Christopher and my surnames as John and Thompson. You must have had something similar. Have you ever wondered how the Spanish naming system works? No?, oh well no need to read the rest then! When a child is born, he/she receives the first surname from the father and the second surname is the first surname of the mother. That means that when baby Sara is born to Juan Martínez Escudero and Marta

Villanueva Cortés she becomes Sara Martínez Villanueva. This way when a woman marries a man, she doesn’t lose her maiden name, and her family name is carried by her own children. Sometimes people don’t want to lose their name after just one generation, or they want to sound posh so they merge their family names to create the equivalent of an English double barrelled surname. For instance Francisco García Carrión wants to marry Ana Martínez Botella; and, because he is proud of his mother’s family name, he changes his first family name to García-Carrión so that his son can be called Pedro García-Carrión Martínez. Ez by the way is “son of” so Fernández was, at some time in the past Fernando’s boy. Just like son in English. Another way to get a double barrelled surname is to use short linking words like and or from especially if the surname means something geographical like the name Ford in English. This time then Bosque (forest) becomes del Bosque, Peña (rock) is de la Peña and Viña (vine) is de la Viña. Now to first names; Spaniards like to give their children several first (Christian) names so that they are protected by more Saints. Traditionally one of the names had to be the Saint related to the birthday. If you were born on St Stephens day you would be called Esteban for instance. This was especially true for women. It was also very common for women to be called María followed by a name to describe their particular “Mary” - something like Esperanza (hope), Concepción (conception), Dolores (pain) or Encarnación (incarnation), In that case they usually call themselves by the second part or a name derived from it. So María Inmaculada would be Inmaculada or Inma to her friends. It gets worse. In order to maximize this divine protection some people have both a male and a female name. The first name will tell you the sex of the person. So if you were writing to José María you’ll need Dear Sir but María Jostrara will be a woman. Just to round off we have the equivalent of Bill to William and Liz to Elizabeth. Pepe is from José, Manolo from Manuel, Paco from Francisco and Chema from José María whilst Concha is María Concepción, Maribel is María Isabel, Marisa from María Luisa, Encarna from María Encarnación and Lola from María de los Dolores.

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ESPECIALISTAS EN PERROS Y GATOS SPECIALIZING IN DOGS & CATS

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SPONSORED DOG WALK : In aid of Barneys rescue.

Leaving Lezonja’s kennels at 10.30am on the 13th of June. If you would like to enter with your dog to raise funds for Barneys, please contact Sonya on 677 343 653 or look out for more info in the next edition of The Inland Magazine.

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FIREWOOD FOR SALE

Chimneys and log burners cleaned. Fire Wood for sale.Almond, Olive etc, best prices in the area. Logs cut to size. Free Delivery & Free Chimney/log burner clean when you purchase more than 3 tons of wood. Land clearance & Tree Pruning

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COMPETITION

Win a signed copy of one of Nik Morton´s books!

(See page 10 for information) To enter cut out this coupon and send it along with your full name, address & daytime telephone number to: T.I.M. Apartado de Correos 285 • 03630 SAX (Alicante) Simply answer the following question... What is the title of Nik Morton’s latest book? Answer.................................................................................. Name..................................................................................... Email Address......................................................................... Address.......................................................................... ....................................................................................... Your Contact Tel number.......................................................... Closing Date for entries is the 19th March 2010 - IM’s decision is final

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Paul Webb (Pablo) 1971 - 2010

things he formed a residents choir. “They may not win any competitions” he used to say “but they enjoy it”.

Paul came to Spain with his partner Keith and their two dogs in October 2002, where they settled in the village of Chinorlet. Paul’s first priority was to learn the Spanish language which he set about with gusto and soon became very proficient. He made lots of Spanish friends and enjoyed many social functions with them including Horse riding which he loved. Prior to arriving in Spain Paul lived in Sheffield where he was Principal Organist at Dore Church and was the Musical Director of Sheffield Light Opera Company and also at the Yorkshire School of Performing Arts. He was a very talented man, who,at an early age mastered, with distinction, both the Piano and Oboe. Music was Paul’s passion and he wrote a number of Symphonic works and a musical “KATHY” which was premiered at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. Those who were fortunate to have known Paul (or Pablo as he liked to be called) will remember his fantastic sense of humour, his beautiful blue eyes and his willingness to help anyone who needed it. Each Monday and Friday morning saw him driving his little red Ford Ka to Monovar where he worked voluntarily, at the elderly peoples home known as the Asilo, where amongst other

Paul doing one of the things he really enjoyed - Cooking

Paul loved the Theatre but perhaps his favourite was to attend Orchestral Concerts, where he would have to struggle to control himself from conducting the Orchestra from his seat. There is so much that can be written about Paul but perhaps the following may make up for what is missing from here. Paul, we will no longer see you, we will not hear you, we will not feel the warmth of your comfort nor the pleasure of your company nor your kind and giving Heart, but you will live on in the memories of those who knew and loved you. You will be greatly missed, Keith

The Pinoso Branch of the Royal British Legion BR3614 The Royal British Legion - Pinoso Branch Saint Valentine’s Dinner and Dance Loved-up members and guests of the Pinoso Branch of the Royal British Legion attended a Saint Valentine’s dinner and dance on Saturday 13th February at ‘La Blanca Paloma’ Restaurant, just outside Pinoso A healthy mix of British and Spanish guests enjoyed a sumptuous five course meal followed by entertainment courtesy of ‘minehost’ and his son who served up a variety of tunes, most of which seemed to require a Paso Doble, or a reasonably close approximation (in the case of the British participants). Dancing continued until the early hours and a good time was had by all. The Pinoso branch of the Royal British Legion was formed with twenty-one members on 27 January 2009. Since that time the membership has grown to twenty-nine with more joining all the time. Meetings are held on the last Tuesday of every month at La Blanca Paloma restaurant just outside Pinoso. New members are always welcome and don’t forget that you no longer need to have served in the armed forces in order to join – membership is now open to everyone. A calendar of social events is planned so why not join now. For more details please contact: Ian Booth, Branch Secretary. Email: ian.booth47@hotmail.co.uk Tel: (0034) 634642693

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The Inland Magazineâ&#x201E;˘

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Hondon de los Frailes Tel: 965 482 151

Open 7 days 7.30 am ‘til late (Closed Sun/Mon evenings) Tuesday to Saturday Special 8 € menu available lunchtime & evenings Sunday 14th March – Mothers’ Day – Sunday lunch only 12.50 € Special Sunday lunch with wine, served from 1.00-3.30 pm with live music from HOT ICE DUO only 12.50 € per person Saturday 27th March – Meal followed by live music from Rocking Rupert (Elvis) & Tina Turner Sunday 4th April – Easter Sunday lunch with wine, served from 1.00-3.30 pm with live music from RUMOURS only 12.50 € per person BOOKING ESSENTIAL Friday remains our famous FISH ‘N’ CHIP NIGHT Takeaway service available Winter warmer Sunday lunch (including glass of wine or beer) 2 courses only 8.50 € served 1-3.30 pm Our friendly staff look forward to welcoming you! 24

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La Pinada has now closed.

We would like too say a big thank you to everyone who supported us over the years. Chris, family and staff.

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KITCHEN Castillian Hot Chocolate

EUROP EAN

cocoa powder • 180g Sugar • 7 tsp cornflour • 140ml water

INGREDIENTS

• 55g unsweetened

• 1 litre Milk

Method 1. Mix the cocoa and sugar together. 2. Dissolve the cornflour in the water and combine with the cocoa and sugar mixture in a mediumsized saucepan. Stir to a smooth paste. 3. Heat this mixture on a medium hob, continuously stirring it with a whisk. Gradually pour in the milk. Continue stirring as you bring it to a simmer. 4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring continuously, until the cocoa is thick, smooth and glossy. Serve warm in mugs or glasses. 26

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The Inland Magazine™ I have heard people saying ‘Buy online, not me, too risky. I am not putting my bank details in and anyway they won’t deliver it.’ Well shopping online does require some caution and common sense but you really can get some great deals. This article is about buying online from reputable sites for fixed prices. I will leave the online auction sites such as Ebay and focus on the direct sales sites of which I have a fair experience over the last few years, having successfully bought numerous items. Firstly, the question for many is ‘Why buy online?’ well I think there are several possible answers: - Price - there are bargains out there especially if you are prepared to buy second hand. - Availability. Sometimes you might want an item which is unavailable locally, especially if you are resident in Spain. - Ease. Research, look and buy without leaving home. Great for us guys but I do understand the girls love the thrill of shopping. So if the above are benefits to you, and I would expect most people to be interested in saving money and time, then what is next? Start researching the sites, put ‘Buying Online’ into Google and you get 64,500,000 hits! No 1 site is Amazon – they sell a vast variety of new and used items. Buying used on things such as books or CDs can really get you a great bargain or maybe a book no longer in print. Dealers sell the ‘Used’ items and you can look at their track record. I have always found them honest and the books arrive in their stated condition, no problem. The same for CDs or DVDs. Because Amazon is now so big you have to set up your free account very carefully and you are probably better off dealing with Amazon.co.uk Another very good site is Play.com who display the prices in either pounds or euros. The great thing about this site is that the prices include the postage costs. However, their choice is not as large as Amazon. But it easy to set up an account and have items delivered to Spain, for which they insist you pay in euros. Another feature of these sites is the customer reviews. You can actually read what other buyers have said about the product and its star rating. This is frequently very useful in helping you to make a product choice – you will not find that in a shop. Earlier this year I wanted to upgrade my camera to a Nikon – the cheapest over the counter price in Spain was 299 euros, around 270 pounds at the then exchange rate. I ordered it from Amazon had it delivered to my sister’s house in England free and paid online 225 pounds. That was a great deal, especially as I was visiting my sister so I was able to collect it. Buying with your card may give you added protection and insurance on your purchases depending upon the terms and conditions of your card provider’s contract with you. When you make a purchase remember to record what and when you made a purchase and any other order information provided by the seller. This is also normally sent to you via email and you may get the option to track your order via the internet. Once you have become a customer you are on their emailing list so you will receive other offers. But you can easily unsubscribe to stop the mailings if you decide too, but hey, you might miss another bargain! I would urge you to take your time with online shopping – make sure you order the product that you want and enter your details correctly – but given the ever-increasing complexity of buying airline tickets online, normal shopping is comparatively very easy. Another innovation is to pay via Pay Pal, which is offered by some sites. The benefit of this option is that you do not have to enter any card or bank details to complete a purchase once your Pay Pal account is set-up. Even if your caution prevents you from making a purchase online, why not look at some sites to see what is available and at what price. You just might get a surprise. Good bargain hunting. 28

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stockist. Our Spring/Summer 2010 catalogues are available upon request. To learn more about Adini and our fashion ranges please visit www.adini.co.uk

See our advert on page 7 PREMIER BRITISH FASHION LABEL EXPANDING IN SPAIN ABOUT ADINI Adini is a leading British Design house and Manufacturer/Supplier of gorgeous Ladieswear clothes and Fashion Accessories, based in London, with brand values that entail outstanding quality, comfort and style at exceptional value. With over 30 years experience in the Fashion Industry, supplying clothing to hundreds of independent boutiques and retail shops in the UK, Europe and the USA, Adini has become a well respected and recognised fashion brand. ADINI IS EXPANDING IN SPAIN Adini is now expanding in Spain and we are currently looking for more boutiques/outlets to stock and sell our fashion ranges. Over 50% of the range is designed for ladies of 35 years and over, in UK sizes 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20. All our clothing is made to the highest standards in an environmentally friendly and fair, sustainable way, including the use of non toxic, AZO free dyes and natural fibres, which are perfect for the Spanish climate. WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you would like to see the entire Autumn/Winter 2010 Collection please contact us for an appointment, or to find your nearest Adini

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A STOCKIST? Simply contact us in Spain on 0034 966 191 560 or 0034 676 059 997. Or email us direct at sales@adinispain.co.uk

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P.A.P.A.s - Neutering Day P.A.P.A.s First Neutering Day On Sunday, January 24th 2010, PAPAs held its first neutering day. The PAPAs executive decided to tackle the insurmountable problem of abandoned animals in Spain by offering a heavily subsidised neutering service to members and local residents. All together, 16 dogs and cats were sterilised that day. PAPAs President, Linda acted as Receptionist and post operative care nurse, and Laurie, PAPAs Vice President assisted Cristina Martinez, the vet, with the operations. LEFT: Patient fully recovered. Linda cuddles ‘Pickle’ the very first cat sterilised under the Scheme. RIGHT: A Job well done. ‘Puppy’ and his owners with Cristina and Laurie. Clearly none the worse for the op! The scheme is primarily aimed at animals that were abandoned, then adopted and others living ‘semi-wild’, especially cats. Owners are charged a small fee for anaesthetic and antibiotics, otherwise the operation is free as PAPAs pay all other veterinary fees. The next neutering day is Sunday, 4th March 2010. We are nearly fully booked, but if you have an animal in need of sterilization, then call 690 774 447. BELOW: Ten down, six to go! Thanks for giving up your day for such a valuable cause, Cristina.

Pinoso Association for the Protection of Animals

Registered Association Number: CV-01-043309-A

Tel: 680 170 298 or 690774447 www.pinosopapas.org

MIKA This 3 year old PEDIGREE red Chow is vaccinated and microchipped. Loves people, but prefers to be an only dog

ZACK …is a Jack Russell cross. Playful and friendly, Zack is used to living with a family. He is about 18 months old and neutered.

DOTTY …is about 9 months old. Vac’d, very loving and friendly Is living with other dogs and loves her walks

INDIE Indie is a loving 10 month old, who gets on very with other dogs and is affectionate and loving with humans. He is vaccinated and neutered

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RICO This lovely dog is a boxer cross, about 18 months old. He is very friendly with people and other dogs. He has been vaccinated.

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FROM SATURDAY 27TH MARCH ALL UNDER ONE ROOF INTERNATIONAL SUPERMARKET DELICATESSEN & The GRAPEVINE Café* OUR NEW LOCATION WILL BE THE FORMER “AMIGOS” SUPERMARKET – LA ROMANA.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL 633 2 633 61 OR MAIL beckisdeli@live.com *The GRAPEVINE

Café will be opening in April after extensive refurbishment undertaken by BTT CONSTRUCTION of Pinoso.

Q: WHEN IS A DELI NOT A DELI? A: When it’s BECKI’S … … DELI, INTERNATIONAL SUPERMARKET & CAFÉ! From Saturday 27th March Becki & Jason along with their new business partners Mick & Caroline will be taking over Amigos supermarket in La Romana and moving Becki’s Deli from its current location (three doors down!) We plan to bring our customers the “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF “ experience where you will not only find your Deli favorites such as Freshly baked bread, homemade pies and pastries but also everything you would expect to find in a fully stocked supermarket. Also planned for a mid April opening is The GRAPEVINE café situated inside Becki’s. The café is to undertake refurbishment by BTT CONSTRUCTION of Pinoso and we hope our customers will find it a relaxed and comfortable place to spend their time.

So why not pop along and see what you think, we will be open from 9am Monday to Saturday. We wish John & Anne of Amigos all the very best for their well deserved retirement, ENJOY!

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Interview with Hazell Dean by Clare Lawrence

was bizarre, as I’d never seen it before. It made me cry, and brought back so many memories. It’s strange when I’ve been to that venue to see other performers or productions, as I have to remind myself that I have sung on that stage too, and that’s pretty special!!! Have you got any tips for up and coming singers? Ooh, that’s tough, as the industry is so different from when I started out. I guess my only tips would be....enjoy it while it lasts and be sensible with your money! Also, learn your trade and perform live. Instant “X Factor” fame doesn’t wash with me. Where would you say has been the most exciting country that you have visited to perform? I always enjoyed touring in America, as I got to spend a decent amount of time there, so got to see the country. Most places I flew in and out of so fast, I only really saw the airport, a club, a studio and hotel before leaving. Although I did visit Israel for 36 hours, I managed to do shows and visit the Dead Sea, the Wailing Wall and Bethlehem. I crammed so much into that visit I was exhausted, but am so glad I did! Who have you most enjoyed singing with? The most magical thing I have ever experienced was with a singer called Fil Straghan, in my local church. We did a “Rock and Soul” evening which was totally impromptu, not rehearsed - but wonderful. We sang “Amazing Grace” together and it was special beyond words, it was a moment that could never be recaptured. I also sang with Jaki Graham, The Temptations and Courtney Pine, which was rather special.

Today I will be interviewing Hazell Dean, the lady who has been referred to countless times as “Queen of the British Clubs.” Hazell started out singing professionally in the 1970’s, and she had her first big hit in 1984. I will ask her about her life before major fame, what life was like once she’d had her first hit and what life has been like since then. Hello Hazell, thank you for accepting my offer of an interview. My pleasure. How was 2009 for your? The year started well, and I was very busy. Then I became ill (could have been swine flu!) and I had to cancel a couple of shows as I was unable to sing. Then the credit crunch hit with and I had a few more shows cancelled. So 2009 wasn’t as busy as I would have liked. I lost a dear friend and colleague after a fluke accident, which shook me to the core, so after his death, 2009 has been a bit of a blur. I particularly remember your songs “Who’s Leaving Who” and “Turn it into Love” from when I was younger. I have very fond memories of listening to the songs. Do any of your songs bring back memories for you? Oh so many memories, it was a crazy time, I am very fortunate, that I have actually lived that dream, and had success doing what I love. I have been some amazing places, met some wonderful people and had a great time. I have too many memories to even begin listing. What was it like to sing at the Royal Albert Hall and the London Palladium? Well the venues themselves are pretty amazing, but I have to say The Royal Albert Hall was probably the most thrilling. I have recently been given a copy of my first TV appearance at the Albert Hall. It 32

I see on your website that you have a few performances booked. Do you have any other performances planned for this year: abroad perhaps? Actually, the show dates section on the website isn’t completely up to date at the moment. I have quite a few shows booked in for 2010, so potentially it’s going to be a busy year. I usually end up going abroad a couple of times. Is there anyone that you would like to work with that you haven’t had the chance to yet? Oh goodness, where do I start?? Streisand, Celine Dion, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklyn, Annie Lennox. I would love to do something with The Pet Shop Boys before I retire!!!! When you first started out in the business, did you ever suffer with nerves or did performing just come naturally to you? When I first started out, I was so young and enthusiastic, it didn’t occur to me to be nervous. I had a nasty patch of anxiety in the early 1990’s, when nerves made me physically ill, which was really nasty for a while, but I’ve got over that now, and I really enjoy myself on stage again. Have you thought about bringing out your own clothing brand or any other projects like this, as many people in the public eye do these days? I’d love to endorse a range for M&S!!!! I’m a singer, not a designer - singing is my job. Would you say that fame has changed you at all? Yes and no. I’m lucky that I’ve not had the level of fame that ruins your life, but I have enjoyed the benefits of being “famous” at times. I don’t do the “celebrity” thing - but I have lived my dream! I have had my diva moments, but in general, I’m still the nice girl my parents brought me up to be! That’s all my questions Hazell, many thanks for answering them. I hope that 2010 is a great year for you! You can see Hazell and find out more about her and her music at: www.hazelldean.com or at www.hazelldean.net

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Terribly Rich? No, Just Terrible

by Marty Funkhauser

Later this year Mrs F and I will celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. If asked, Mrs F would say that love, humour, consideration and compromise were our secret whereas I would simply explain that I agree with everything she says. However, perhaps the fact that I can do no more than make or receive a call on my mobile telephone is really the reason for our lasting partnership. It seems that the texting of a risqué message accompanied by a photograph of yourself in underpants being sent to a third party is the downfall of the modern man. I am of course referring to footballer and all round good egg Ashley Cole who coincidentally happens to play for the same team as ex England Captain John Terry. Perhaps Ashley was getting his revenge in first as he may have thought his club captain could be sleeping with is wife, let’s face it he is a team mate and plays at left back the position once occupied at Chelsea by the unfortunate Wayne Bridge. On paper or in Hello magazine Ashley and Cheryl appear to be the perfect couple. Cheryl is a successful singer and Ashley is related to Mariah Carey. Ms Carey explained that she was checking her family tree to see if she was related to Nat King Cole and to her horror she found out that it was a different Cole altogether that is out of the same stock, in true world star fashion she attempted not to look disappointed but failed miserably. Let’s see what else Ashley and Cheryl have in common, well, Ashley was held after swearing at a policeman outside a Kensington nightclub whereas Cheryl was actually charged with racially activated assault she was to be found guilty of assault only, as in her defence, she admitted calling Sophie Amogbokpa “a f**king bitch” but denied calling her a “black f**king bitch. Ashley got a four month driving disqualification in January after police recorded him driving at 104mph in a 50mph residential area. Ashley claimed that the police radar gun was faulty; after it was proven to be accurate he claimed that he was being chased by the paparazzi, the same paparazzi that didn’t get caught by the police one assumes. In 2009, Cheryl Cole announced her support for the Labour Party in the upcoming General Election, referring to the Tory leader David Cameron as “slippery”. Now John Terry is a fine example for any aspiring schoolboy footballer. Terry, 29, has been dogged by tabloid reports of affairs for years, and was reported to have cheated on his girlfriend, and later wife, Toni Poole with at least eight women before they married in 2007. He said before the wedding: “I’ve misbehaved and slept with girls behind her back and that’s not right. She knows all about it now and we’re moving on. I’m not going to cheat on her ever again”. Famous last words. Back to the secret our success, I can’t text and don’t know how to use the camera on my mobile, we’re the opposite of stinking rich and most importantly, Mrs F is always right. 34

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TA X N E E D N O T B E TA X I N G . Following on from an excellent article in January`s Inland Magazine on Tax in Spain, here are a few interesting points to consider. As stated in that article, everyone who has lived in Spain for more than 183 has by law to make a “declaracion” for tax here in Spain, but that need not be a bad thing, sorting out your tax affairs can have considerable benefits. Firstly, if you are a Spanish resident, but pay tax in the UK you can claim some or all of it back, yes it is complicated and there are lots of forms to fill in and have stamped, but when all this is done, the average refund is over £3,000, this of course depends on how much tax you have paid in the past and how long you have lived in Spain, some get less, some get considerably more. Plus the average saving into the future is £1,000 each year, this will not solve the global crisis, but may help restore your personal budget so badly affected by the fall in value of the Pound. Secondly, being Fiscally Resident as opposed to merely Domiciliary Resident affects IHT, Capital Gains and Withholding Tax. Qualifying fiscal residents of the Valencia Region get a 99% discount on inheritance tax (IHT). To put this in perspective, a non resident faced with an IHT bill of say 20,000 euros, would only need to pay 200 euros if they were fiscally correct. State Retirees are exempt from Capital Gains Tax on any profit they make on the sale of their house, and Withholding Tax of 3% on house sales does not have to be deducted from those who have made the effort to put their affairs in order. The economic situation in Spain has been well covered in the press, tax receipts are down over 30% and may go lower, like most of us they have a need to ensure they do their “housekeeping” to the best of their casual attitude towards residents who do not fulfill their obligations in Spain may change, action against those who do not conform should be considered a distinct possibility in the future. Look on the bright side, UK Tax Refunds SL, the company who wrote this article, have helped hundreds of British and Spanish clients get their overpaid tax back, they could help you get yours back too. They run a free confidential help and advice line on tax and related matters just telephone the number on page ......... for a plain English chat on any tax problem you may have.

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All Home Grown

by Derek Workman

Clodagh Handscombe first set foot on Spanish territory in 1964 when, as an adventurous young maid from south Dublin, she took a trip on a banana boat that brought her to Santa Cruz in Tenerife, where for she worked for a banana plantation-owning family for a year before stepping over to Gran Canaria for a job in a hotel. Two years later she was back in Ireland, and it wasn’t until twenty years later that she returned to Spain permanently. Meanwhile, her husband to be, West Londoner Dick was forging away with his career as a business consultant, clocking up countries like some people clock up miles – 45 visited, 30 worked in. It was all this travelling that made him think that living in Spain would be a much nicer spot in which to do his invoicing and write his business books. In 1987 he bought a house in La Drova, and after two cancer operations in 1993, not knowing how long he had left, he decided that he might as well see out the rest of his time in Spain. “I just got on with the garden, a bit of fishing and being lonely at times. I’ve always walked a lot so I eventually joined a walking group and went away with about thirty others for a weekend. There were twelve of us single and we were ostracised by the rest of the group so we decided to set up our own – three men and nine long-legged ladies in shorts!” At the time of their meeting at Bolulla Castle on 17th October 1996, Clodagh was working long hours looking after gardens and houses. About the only way they could meet on a regular basis was if Dick helped her with her gardening so they began commuting between her flat in Javea and his house in La Drova. They finally decided to see if they could live together on a permanent basis so went for a wilderness walk – 950 kilometres in fifty-two days from one side of Spain to the other following the Pyreenees – not the crowded pilgrims route to Santiago Compostello. “Clodagh say’s we bought a couple of packs, caught the train to Irun, turned east and kept walking until we had our feet in the Med.” “We had to carry everything we needed so we did everything we could to save weight,” continues Clodagh, “even to using mini toothbrushes. Posh friends winced later when they asked me about what make up and potions I’d taken because all I had was a tiny bottle of olive oil into which I dribbled a few drops of lavender oil, and when it ran out I asked hostal staff if they could top it up from the kitchen bottle, which they did, and were always highly amused by this Irish woman and her little bottle of lavender-scented olive oil.” As well as cementing their relationship, the trip lead them to a project that was to almost take over their lives. Dick explains. “While we were walking we saw some wonderful vegetable gardens that were grown totally organically. Clodagh had grown most of their vegetables organically in Ireland and I’d worked on my grandmother’s smallholding as a boy in the times when everything was horse-drawn, so we decided that we’d begin growing our own organic vegetables.” 36

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Costa Blanca When they returned to La Drova they searched out a plot of land for an allotment and began the process that would turn them into successful gardening writers and virtually selfsufficient. Along the way they disappeared on a walking holiday to be married in Gibraltar, talking an English bobby stationed outside the registry office into taking a photo of them to mark the occasion. And then back to their garden. “Having written an article about our trek across Spain in the Costa Blanca News they were asked to write a weekly gardening column . “We called ourselves ‘Greenfinger’ because we didn’t want our friends knowing we wrote it,” laughs Clodagh. “A bit daft, really, because before they finally discovered it was us doing it some of them had been saying ‘We’re collecting your articles, why don’t you write a book.” So they did, Practical gardening on the Costa, which led to Your Garden In Spain, Growing Healthy Vegetables in Spain, Growing Healthy Fruit in Spain, and the soon to published Mediterranean Apartment Gardening. And every word comes from the hard graft of experimental gardening. If they say it can be done it’s because they’ve done it – even going to the lengths of growing and making their own paella. “We didn’t really think we could write a book about gardening in Spain, especially with us living in the Valencian region, without going the whole hog and growing the ingredients for a paella,” Dick explains, “so we found an old bath in a skip, painted it green, put in some earth with a 15cm covering of water, a couple of goldfish to keep the mosquitoes down and threw in a couple of handfuls of rice.” And it wasn’t just home-grown rice they used, either, because in went their own beans, garlic and tomatoes and a rabbit from their own hutches (which happily co-exist with chickens, bantams, partridge and quail, but not ducks because they smell .). They even added snails grown in their own snail cage to give it a true Valenciano flavour. The couple have now reached the point where they could be one hundred percent self-sufficient in food if it wasn’t for the occasional Manchego cheese and bottle of wine. If push came to shove they could easily go to the nearby beach and get salt by evaporating sea water, but that could be taking things a bit too far.

Competition Win a signed copy of your ‘Your Garden In Spain’ To enter cut out this coupon and send it along with your full name, address & daytime telephone number to: T.I.M. Apartado de Correos 285 • 03630 SAX (Alicante) Name:............................................................................... Address:........................................................................... Daytime Telephone No.:.................................................. E-mail:............................................................................. Closing Date for entries is the 19thMarch 2010. TIM’s decision is final

“It’s possible,” admits Clodagh, but we still like the social contact of going into a shop and buying the odd thing. Although we now have a garden, allotment and olive grove and write a lot we don’t allow it to rule our lives.” They say that a gardener never really sees his garden finished, it’s always a work in progress, but there must be something immensely satisfying about watching your garden grow – especially when the end result ends up on a plate in front of you! Your Garden In Spain, Growing Health Vegetables in Spain, Growing Healthy Fruit in Spain and Mediterranean Apartment Gardening by Clodagh and Dick Handscombe are all available from bookshops and Santana Books, Tel +34 952 485 838. www.santanabooks.com. For information and regularly updated articles on gardening in Spain visit http://gardeninginspain.com/ A lucky The Inland Magazine reader can win a signed copy of Your Garden In Spain by simply complete the coupon on this page. We will be reviewing Mediterranean Apartment Gardening as soon as it hits the bookshops.

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ost of us love taking portraits; photographs of friends and relatives. We take them all the time with compact cameras, mobiles, iPods-the list goes on. We are surrounded by images of people everywhere we look, we can’t avoid it. Usually, and I mean USUALLY, we are a little disappointed with the results. It’s not exactly Michelangelo’s ‘David’ or Lady Gaga that we end up viewing. Most of the time this is not due to the dynamic physique of the person (well, with the possible exception of Bernard Manninggod bless his little soul) but with, yes I can hear you say it, WITH HOW YOU TAKE THE PHOTOGRAPH!

Photography Love, Rock and Two Smoking Portraits

Your camera will probably have some kind of pop-up flash unit built in, obviously if it’s built in it won’t pop-up but you get the gist. You use it and immediately harsh, blaring, unflattering light slaps your subject right in the face. Usually, human instinct takes over, the eyes shut and screams echo. Those of a less nervous disposition end up with eyes that look like the floor of a gladiators dog-fight, or was it tigers? Why do camera manufactures continue to provide a light source that would put Star Wars or Avatar to shame? Well, I’ll let you into a little secret-it’s so people will buy dedicated off-camera flashguns! Maybe you’ve thought there is a better way of taking portraits, ones that you can hang on your wall without making your home look like the set from the Addams Family. Well, there is! At Valencian Photographic Holidays we are now running portrait courses which include everything you need to know, from setting up a basic home studio, posing the model, using external flashguns, producing professional prints and lots more. Why not see our website for more details? As for the title; well we love to take portraits; portraits really rock and if you attend one of our courses you’ll have two prints to take home! It’s been emotional. Rodger Holden LRPS www.photographyspain.com email:rodgerholden@hotmail.co.uk Images copyright of Rodger Holden and cannot be used without prior permission 40

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by Roger Holden

Costa Blanca

Tel: 965 474 314 • Mob: 675 218 436

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Semi det country house 4 beds, 1 bath 7000m2 land Garage

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P i s c e s a d a p t s t o t h e i r s u r ro u n d i n g s , g o o d or bad. T h ey a re g en ero u s , f r i e n d l y, g o o d n a tu red p eo p l e wi th a t r u e s e n s e o f k i n d n e s s a n d c o m p a s s i o n . T h e y a re s e n s i t i v e t o e v e r y t h i n g a ro u n d t h e m including the feelings of others. T h ey a re p o p u l a r fo l k b e c a u s e of their easygoing and likable m a n n e r, w h i c h t e n d s t o m i r ro r p e o p l e t h e y a re w i t h . They have an uncanny s e n s e o f p e rc e i v i n g w h a t a p e r s o n i s i n n e e d o f , a n d d e l i v e r i n g i t . T h e y a re n o t i n i t i a t o r s , b u t r a t h e r a l l o w c i rc u m s t a n c e s a n d e v e n t s t o m o t i v a t e the m , a n d t h e n t h e y re s p o n d . I n t h i s a s p e c t , t h e y t e n d to foc u s o n o th er p eo p l es p ro b l ems ra th er th a n t h e i r o w n .

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Spending time on solitary pursuits will make you feel happier and healthier. Lately, you’ve been running from one social event to another. This busy phase has left you tired and anxious. By learning to enjoy your own company, you’ll realise you don’t need to stay busy. In fact, there’s a great deal of pleasure to be taken from resting and relaxing. You can still be productive while taking a few well timed breaks. It’s all a matter of balance.

Rubbing elbows with influential people will teach you some valuable lessons. In the past, you were in awe of such superstars. Now you have had a chance to watch them up close, you realise they are just human. Your abilities are as strong as theirs. Instead of telling yourself certain jobs and social situations were beyond your abilities, you will be motivated to throw your hat in the ring. Don’t be surprised when you get a chance to teach abroad.

Your professional reputation is growing by leaps and bounds. Everybody admires your ability to handle big responsibilities. When you have too much on your plate, you’re willing to delegate duties to other members of your team. Instead of taking all the credit yourself, you go out of your way to praise your support staff. No wonder people love working for you! If you’re seeking employment, seek opportunities related to travel, teaching and journalism.

An opportunity to mix with people from diverse backgrounds gives you a new lease on life. In the past, you thought you were fated to leading a certain kind of life. Now you realise there are many options available to you. Living overseas may have particular appeal. You’re especially drawn to an ancient city near the water. Take a trip to your dream destination to see how you like it in a few short weeks; you could be busy moving into a new home.

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sharing resources with someone you love gives you a new appreciation for intimacy. In the past, you were wary about allowing loved ones access to your most precious possessions. Now that you have taken a risk in the name of love, you’re reaping some fabulous rewards. Of course, you didn’t leap before you looked. You choose a partner who demonstrated loyalty under tremendous pressure. Together, you can make each other’s dreams come true. It’s all a matter of letting down your defences.

A contractual agreement gives you more purchasing power. Suddenly luxuries that were beyond reach will become readily available. Although you’re very practical when it comes to money, it’s nice to be able to afford creature comforts. Organic food, high end cosmetics and furnishings made from natural materials appeal to your refined sensibilities. Don’t be afraid to splurge on items that speak to your soul. It’s time you learned to pamper yourself.

Colleagues are eager to help you realise a professional goal. They’ve always been grateful for your diplomatic skills. Thanks to you, you’re office is a very nice place to be. Now an executive position has become available, colleagues will do everything in their power to make sure you get it. There may be lots of glamorous travel involved with this position. You have to admit the prospect of taking a series of all expenses paid trips is thrilling!

Fun and games are ahead, and it’s about time! Lately, you’ve been spending lots of time at home. Although this has been emotionally rewarding, it hasn’t provided much creative fulfilment. You’ve been blessed with tremendous artistic talent. Channelling it into a bold project will give you a new lease on life. Take your cues from someone who is entirely unconscious of public opinion. You need to satisfy yourself first. If others like what you do, it’s just icing on the cake.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Spending time with family can soothe your restless heart. In the past, it was difficult for you to establish a home base. You were afraid that settling down would prevent you from leading an adventurous life. Now you realise it is possible to have a secure home base and an exciting existence. It’s all a matter of balance. If you’re been thinking of buying your own home, now is the time to move. You could find a spacious place with a decidedly foreign flavour.

An influential relative or neighbour will help you attain a cherished goal. Whether you want to find love, get a job or move to a new place, you will find success. It’s all a matter of asking for help. Don’t let pride get in the way of capitalising on your contacts. The person in question will be happy to act on your behalf. Besides, you’ve always been quick to assist others. Consider this lucky break to be the Universe’s way of rewarding one of its kindest citizens.

Several job offers will be made to you. Choose the one which helps you make a positive difference in the world. Although it might pay less than some of the other opportunities, it won’t matter. You’ll still earn a good living whilst feeling good about your contributions. Buying a home overseas is a distinct possibility. This place will be a welcome getaway from the day to day responsibilities that get you down. Property by the water is an excellent investment.

Relentless enthusiasm opens all sorts of doors for you, especially as far as romance is concerned. Someone who was entirely indifferent to your charms will fall head over heels in love with you. Although their attention is flattering, you’ve lost all interest in a potential affair. You’d rather focus on a creative endeavour that has captured your imagination and make a name for yourself as a talented artist than trying to revitalise something that’s had its day.

By Philip Garcia - www.philipgarcia.com 42

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Costa Blanca

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Cave house for renovation. Could easily provide lounge, kitchen/diner and 2 ensuite bedrooms. Water and electricity In a mountain area with panoramic views.

Plot of land for the legal construction of a new house. Water and electricity available. Free irrigation water. 10 minutes from all amenities in town. Mountain area with panoramic views.

Pretty detached country house on enclosed plot with auto entry. 2 beds, bath, lounge/diner, fitted kitchen. Stairs to solarium. Enclosed gardens with terrace, above ground pool and BBQ. 5 minutes from amenities. Plot: 6,000 m2 € 131,700

Detached country house on large, flat plot. 4 beds, bath, lounge/diner, fitted kitchen. Porch, garage. Lovely views, only 5 minutes from all amenities. Price for this month only. 2 Build: 147: m Plot: 16,700 m2 €139,000

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New detached villa with 3 beds, 2 baths, lounge/diner, fitted kitchen with utility. Porch with panoramic views. Plot enclosed with trees. 5 minutes from all amenities.

New, high quality detached villa with pool. 3 beds (with wardrobes, 3 baths, lounge/diner, fitted kitchen & utility. Enclosed gardens with auto entry. Underbuild with additional bedroom. 2 Build: 150 m 2 € 149,000 Plot: 1,000 m

Detached house for renovation. 3 beds, bath, lounge/diner, kitchen. Large nternal patio, water, electricity. Elevated position. 10 minutes from amenities.

Detached house in an elevated position with fantastic views and good access. 2 beds, 2 baths, fitted kitchen/diner, lounge. AC/CH. 90 m2 outbuilding/garage. 4km from all amenities 2 Build: 140 m € 158,000 Plot 10,000 m2

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Fantastic opportunity to purchase a huge house with pool in a popular area. 4 beds, 2 baths, fitted kitchen, garage. Sound system. AC/CH, D/Glazing, Electric entry system. Must be viewed. 2 Build: 225 m 2 Plot: 512 m € 270,000

Superb detached villa with pool, fully furnished and equipped. 4 beds, 2 baths, large kitchen/diner, spacious lounge. Garage. Auto irrigation system. Full CCTV. Telephone, internet, Sat TV. Walking distance of town. Build: 200 m2 2 Plot: 620 m € 339,000

Priced for quick sale – Fully furnished. second floor apartment with 3 beds, bath, fitted kitchen, utility room, lounge. Comm solarium with storage. Roadside parking. Centrally located close to amenities. 2 Build: 88 m € 55,000

Fully furnished villa with pool on plot providing annual income. 3 beds, 2 baths, fitted kitchen with appliances, lounge./diner. CH. Extensive terraces, patio, porch. Separate sun room. Build: 145 m2 € 285,000 Plot: 20,225 m2

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Build: 150 m 2 Plot: 5,000 m

€ 99,500

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Billy’s Fundraiser Fun Day At The Manor House Paredon Pinoso on Saturday 20th March 2010 Starts at 2p.m We are holding a fundraiser on Saturday 20th March in order to raise money for Espanola Coutra el Cancer and for Billy and his family. Billy is a 19 year old lad that lives in our community, he has cancer and is Currently undergoing therapy at Elda Hospital. The money raised from this day will be going towards both easing the financial burden on Billy’s family at this difficult time and also a donation will be made to Espanol Coutra el Cancer. Please support this really worthy event.

Timetable of events. Petanca 1.30pm Tug of War 2.30pm Bingo 3.00pm, Auction 4.00p.m Buffet 6.00pm Chest Wax /Head Shave 7.00 pm Race Night/ Killer Pool 8.00pm Karaoke Sing off 9.00pm. Entry to the Fun day is 5 euros per person including buffet and all profits will go to the charity. There will also be a raffle all day, with the draw taking place last thing. Please contact Sue on 650 678 337 for more information. Donations gratefully received to sponsor the events.

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Costa Blanca

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Hondon Valley Golf Society

NEW FACES PAUL AND DAVE WIN GOLD AND SILVER AS ALBERT BAGS BRONZE AT EL PLANTIO

In blustery conditions throughout new member Paul Richards won the Gold section at El Plantio Golf with a modest 29 points playing off a handicap of 11. Another relatively new member Dave Tomlinson, Handicap 17, carded an excellent 33 points in the trying conditions to win Silver. But it was the long serving HVGS founder member Albert ‘Lucky’ Baggaley who won Bronze despite having had his handicap chopped after his run of success last year. Sunny conditions and a 20 km per hour wind greeted the thirty HVGS members and guests as they met up at El Plantio to contest the February Stableford. The added prizes on the day were donated by Captain Bob and allocated to ‘secret pairs’ that would be randomly drawn after the round using the player’s scorecards. Bob Nash and Mick Graham were drawn as the best pair scoring 51 points between them. The second best pair of Dave Stevens and Albert Baggaley scored 48 points narrowly coming second on countback over the back 12 holes!

Members will be allocated one book of 10 tickets to sell at €1.00 per ticket. The tickets will be distributed on Tuesday 9th March at Alenda Golf. Members are requested to bring suitable items for a Hamper to the HVGS Golf Day at Alenda and give the goodies to Les Goddard or Chairman Ron on the day. If the society receive enough items it is hoped that there will be three Hampers, including one bumper hamper, as prizes. For information on how to join HVGS contact the Secretary, Trevor Batchelor, on 687987229 or email trevor.batchelor@hotmail.com . To reserve your place on the list for the Society Golf Days contact the Captain, Bob Watson, on 663316366 or e-mail linbobinspain@ yahoo.co.uk

The course was in excellent condition and the society received its usual warm welcome from the El Plantio staff. Five hours after the first group had tee-ed off at just after 10.00 am; the final threeball was back on the terrace drinking in the sun and out of the wind. Captain Bob presented the prizes in the clubhouse and congratulated the members for playing some good golf despite the windy conditions. He welcomed new members Paul Richards and Dave Tomlinson and special guest Robert Ross who is a member at El Plantio. Bob also thanked those members who had brought in items for the Spring Hamper Draw. Finally, the Captain asked members to sign a get well card for ex-Captain Jim Lynch who had spent a short spell in Elda Hospital in January but who was now at home and making good progress. On behalf of all HVGS members he wished Jim a speedy recovery and hoped that he would be back on the golf course soon. SPRING HAMPER DRAW The Draw will take place at El Plantio Golf on Wednesday 12th May.

Winners HVGS February Stableford - El Plantio Golf - Tuesday 9th February 2010 Member