LIBERTYCAR
“ I am an expatriate like you and I've been a broker with Liberty Seguros since 2008. I’m here to find the Car Insurance that's best for you.”
Costa Blanca North
FREE
The Expats’ No.1 Choice
ISSUE 84 (#126) February 14th
www.galaxyradio.es
For an instant quote call 902 255 258 or go to www.libertyexpatriates.es
– Front Cover Earpiece 14 February Advertise with with The The Buzz Buzz -- 22 Months Months FREE FREE -- Proven Proven Results Results -- 98% 98%Buzz Repeat Renewals over 44 years years Call -- 634 634 310 310 665 665 Advertise Repeat Renewals over -- Call
IPTV CLAMPDOWN
22.
After raids across Spain, authorties are shutting down illegal TV services such as card sharing and IPTV. In Operation FAKE, more than 30 people have been arrested, uncovering a whole criminal network across the whole of Spain. Continued Page 2
205,000€
GV 201605-A 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
www.whirlpools-world.es ∙ info@whirlpools-world.es 03724 Teulada - Moraira Coast Road (CV 746) Ctra. Moraira-Calp 161
Whirlpools World
Call 96 648 2480 now to list your property BRAND NEW
SPAIN
500m from beach
Javea
Apartment
249,000€
Ref: GV 201641-A
Javea Villa
649,000€
Ref: GV 201640-A
JALON OFFICE
Build: 75 m2
GV 201635-A 2 Bathrooms
Build: 329 m2
Plot: 2,078 m2
5 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms
Villa
Javea Villa
449,000€ Alcalalí JAVEA OFFICE
Build: 110 m2
3 Bedrooms
Plot: 810 m2
2 Bathrooms
Ref: GV 201639-A
Villa
Ref: GV 201637-A
Jalon
4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Build: 135 m2 Plot: 700 m2
3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms
Apartment
Build: 114 m2 Parking
www.garciavillas.co.uk
3.790 €
for spas
Avda. Joanot Martorell, nº 17-C
90,000€ 03727 Jalon (Alicante)
Ref: GV 201635-A 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
You’ll be moved by our service!
ice!
3.990 €
Call 96 648 2480 now to list your property JALON OFFICE
225,000€
Ctra. Cabo La Nao, Pla, 122. Bloque 12-Bajo, 03730 Javea
Build: 200 m2 Plot: 1,200 m2
Spain´s
205,000€
Ref: GV 201605-A
Avda. Joanot Martorell, BARGAIN nº 17-C 03727 Jalon (Alicante)
90,000€
3 Bedrooms
2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Jalon
✆ 966 498 146
JAVEA OFFICE
Ctra. Cabo La Nao, Pla, 122. Bloque 12-Bajo, 03730 Javea
Special edition 2017 with Service
www.garciavillas.co.uk
+++ SpaS made in germany, europe, uSa +++
2
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Illegal TV Networks Dismantled
It seems TV companies have finally had enough, working together with National Police and Tax Authorities to reduce the amount of nonlegal television viewing. Sports broadcasters such as Sky Sports and Canal+ have had people pirate their programmes for many years and despite putting in precautions and deterrents to cut down on illegal usage they are losing Millions year after year. Recently authorities uncovered a criminal network in Operation FAKE who were providing pay for TV channels through card sharing and internet services. Police arrested 30 suspects throughout Spain with 48,800 decoders seized, alongside 183,200€ in cash, 10
luxury vehicles, 1 counterfeit luxury car, a private plane, several financial documents and IT equipment. M o r e investigations and raids are expected in local businesses advertising the sale of IPTV boxes and card sharing as well as houses with high Internet and power usage. Local businesses who are currently operating such services should find a legal way of broadcasting as soon as possible as they can also have their equipment removed and fined if they cannot prove that their services are legitimate. Sky are also rumoured to have employed a number of “Spotters” to
visit different establishments throughout Spain that show sport to help tip off authorities of illegal usage. Example of Illegal IPTV System
Varifocals 79€ FREE or Reactions 79€ FREE or Thin & Light 74€ FREE*
Choose one of these great offers or get 30% off selected frames
on glasses from 89€ *Only one offer per person.
SALE MASSIVE LENSES
FREE eye test + FREE visual health check + FREE retinal photography* Our eye test examines more than just your vision. We also take a closer look at your visual health and can detect the signs of a range of important eye problems. Book yours today at:
Calpe 965 835 367 · Avenida de los Ejércitos Españoles 6 Jávea 966 463 420 · Avenida del Pla 125 Single vision lenses: 1.5 scratch-resistant. Other lenses and Extra Options available at an additional charge. 30% off selected frames with single vision lenses, please see red stickers in store indicating reduced frames. Cannot be used with other offers. Ends 5 March 2017. Free eye test: One per person on or before 5 March 2017. Cannot be exchanged for cash or used with other vouchers. Present voucher at time of test. Eye test normally 15€. ©2017 Specsavers. All rights reserved.
BUZZ MAGAZINE – 169mm x 247mm – Colour
6 February and 20 February
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
3
In This Issue...
Dear Readers
News Page 3
Life in the Costa Blanca has started to feel a little more like it should with one day in the last 7 reaching 24 degrees and most of the rest an acceptable 15 to 18 degrees. Well there is one thing for sure it’s far warmer than that in the UK right now. As I have said in many of my welcome notes we normally take it for granted living in Spain and I think only this year we all really have seen a different story and sailing through the winter has not been quite the same.
Local News Page 11 Property Plus Page 19
So now with the sun shining my welcome note to you 20,000 readers across the region is “hallelujah” spring is definitely in the air and we can all look forward to a brilliant year ahead. On such a positive note it is a shame I had to include such a negative story on the front page. In brief there is no excuse to rip off people and it is one of my biggest hates together with bullying. So called “Big boys” who find the need to bully others. So for now lets just say “watch this space!”
Lifestyle Page 24 Puzzles Page 26/27 Six Nations Feature Page 28/29
Getting back to the positives I can announce that we are actually just about to add a further 16 pages and are working on the new design layout as we speak, the new sections will enhance the Buzz Newspaper and our team have been working hard to provide the best local news stories most of which we can say are stories not being sourced by any other publication. Our emphasis is always on being big and bright a newspaper production that stands out from the rest with. I mentioned last issue that we have some exciting news, all will be revealed in the next issue on 28th February so get out and pick up your Buzz. See our Buzz Hot Spot list so that you can guarantee your copy is available. For the latest updates on this and many other reasons to keep in touch you can follow us on facebook at /TheBuzzNewspaper. and also tune in to Galaxy radio at 106.8 fm Javea to Calpe or 104.1 fm Benidorm & Marina Baxia. If its easier then listen online and enjoy live presenters each day from 8am with “Get Up With Gazza” followed by “The Even Bigger Brunch” with the Max Factor until 3pm when we are proud to feature the one and only Ian Bennett with the “Alternative Afternnon Show” a fantastic line up to keep you entertained all day every day. If your out and about then listen on your phone, download the app or use the web sites for our live stream. Again can I please remind you to ask that when you visit one of our advertisers that you mention you have seen them in the Buzz Newspaper, so many readers forget to mention this when going along to a business client that has an advert with us and we just love the feedback. Also we love to hear from you and find out your news so please tell us by email at marco@buzzmedia.es or visit us on facebook at facebook.com/ TheBuzzNewspaper. Read your local Buzz Newspaper online at www.buzznews. es and contact us anytime at the news desk 965 020 250 or on my mobile 634 310 665
Food & Drink Page 31 Finance Page 38 Motoring Page 40 Sport Page 50
Editor - Benilon S.L Managing Director - Marco Baiardo Production Manager - Marco B Jr. Editorial - Simon Russell Head Office & News Desk C/Castellion 5, Benidorm, 03500 Tel - 965 020 250 info@buzzmedia.es www.buzznews.es
Have a great week...
Marco - Editor in Chief - Buzz Media
Deposito Legal A 447-2014
LIBERTYCAR
“ I am an expatriate like you and I’ve been a broker with Liberty Seguros since 2008. I’m here to find the Car Insurance that’s best for you.” Car Insurance benefits include: u 24h Roadside Assistance in English. u Book value +30% in case of total loss. u Up to 65% No-Claims Discount. u Courtesy Car if accident, theft or breakdown. u Pick up and delivery of spare keys. u Extensive Breakdown Cover.
Behind a GReaT company TheRe aRe always GReaT people
The Expats’ No.1 Choice Discover what more Liberty Seguros can do for you.
For an instant quote call 902 255 258 or go to www.libertyexpatriates.es
BUZZ MAGAZINE – 169mm x 247mm – Colour
14 February
In the pink
Panga off the menu By Simon Russell
By Simon Russell
AS part of World Wetlands Day, Calpe has installed an information point at the iconic Les Salines salt lake. Les Salines is home to about fifty flamingos most of which now choose to stay there all year round rather than making the full migration between
France and Algeria. The mild winter weather in Calpe has meant that the winter climate is ideal for the birds, adding a splash
of tropical colour to the town. All the flamingos have been ringed and many have been resident for several years.
Beauty parlour scammer arrested
By Simon Russell
A man has been arrested in Valencia for selling discount vouchers relating to a business that had closed down. When users went to redeem the vouchers at the beauty parlour they were told that the previous business had closed and the vouchers, worth up to €500, could not be used under
the new ownership. However police determined after complaints that the same man owned the new business and he has now been arrested and charged with fraud. The man, a 45 year old Spaniard, already has a police record believed to be for similar activities.
SUPERMARKET giant Carrefour is to stop selling panga, the retailer has announced this week. Panga is a white fish which is farmed in south east Asia, particularly Vietnam, and has become a cheap alternative for many shoppers as the Spanish (and British) staple of cod has become more expensive over recent years. Carrefour have said that they are concerned about
the environmental impact of the panga farms, in particular how the waste water and other by- products are dealt with. However, they have stressed that the product itself is “impeccable” and consumers should have no concerns about any of the fish they may have in their fridge or freezer. It is not known if any other retailers plan to follow Carrefour’s lead on this issue.
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
5
Gibraltar and Trump off the agenda Candles to
remember
By Simon Russell
SPANISH Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy took some time out to speak to his British counterpart Theresa May at this month’s Malta European summit. The main talking point was – what else – Brexit and Mr Rajoy said he had called for a constructive approach to the process that would not harm citizens from either country. He also said that in his view the process should be done as quickly as possible and
conducted in a civilized manner. The position of Gibraltar post Brexit remains a delicate matter but apparently was not raised in their twenty minute discussion. Neither was the controversial start to Donald Trump’s presidency discussed, although Mr Rajoy has expressed support recently for the Mexican government amid Trump’s Presidential executive order confirming the building of a giant wall
along the American and Mexican border. Mrs May meanwhile has been criticised for her failure to comment
on holiday with his six year old daughter in the Spanish resort of Lloret de Mar in 2001 when the fatal stabbing occurred. He was found guilty of murder by the Spanish courts and was allowed to serve out his sentence in his home
country. He had been judged as mentally ill and was detained in a psychiatric facility in Germany. After 12 years of treatment, he had been released back into the community in 2013 although only on the understanding that
on some of Trump’s actions such as the travel ban from certain countries he has By Simon Russell announced. OVER 200 Jewish families living in Alicante province attended a memorial service in Alicante City Hall on Holocaust Memorial Day. 24 Alicantinos were among the six million people exterminated by the Germans in World War II. Candles were lit in memory of the dead and the names of the local victims were read out. Azuguel Armand, president of Alicante’s Jewish
Child murderer recaptured
By Simon Russell
A German man who was convicted of the murder of his young daughter 16 years ago but who evaded the authorities and disappeared four years ago has been located and arrested in Denia. The man was
c o m m u n i t y, presided over the service and reminded people about the dangers of any rise in anti-Semitism in what many feel is becoming an increasingly intolerant world. There were also representatives from the gypsy community at the event, with an estimated one million people of gypsy ethnicity being victims of the holocaust.
he was to be closely monitored at all times by the authorities. However he quickly absconded and after a European arrest warrant was issued he was finally tracked to Denia where he was re-arrested earlier this month.
Our unique Offer
3 fOr 1
You can choose two pairs of complete glasses from our entire range with no restrictions what so ever. Choose designer frames, varifocals, photochromatic or thinner lenses. Your third pair can be distance or reading glasses – even prescription sunglasses. You pay for only one pair – whichever has the higher price. You can even share the offer with a friend or relative and free eye tests are included. The third pair is supplied with standard CR39 lenses and exclude designer, rimless and supra frames. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer or discounts.
WeLCOMe TO DirekT OpTik – HaLf a kiLOMeTre OuTsiDe MOraira Ctra Moraira-Calpe 122, Moraira, 03724 Alicante. Telephone 965 745 989. Monday – Friday 09.30 – 18.00, Saturday 10.00 – 14.00
direktoptik.es
6
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
A greener form Spanish star in UK health scare of shopping By Simon Russell
By SImon Russell
VA L E N C I A N supermarket giant Mercadona have unveiled the first of their new energy efficient stores, both of them in the Alicante province. The shops, in Alicante’s La Florida area and the La Marina shopping centre near Finestrat, have been converted to ensure energy
savings of around 40%. Both are larger stores within the chain and are expected to be the first in a wave of many such conversions. Mercadona stated that the change benefits customers as well as the environment while generating long term savings for the company.
A N T O N I O Banderas was rushed to hospital near his home in Surrey after suffering what he described as agonising chest pains at the end of last month. The Spanish film star was kept in hospital for 24 hours but was released after medical staff confirmed that the situation was not life threatening. Banderas has lived
in the UK since 2015 where he been writing and also studying fashion design, a potential new career path. Famous for his roles ranging from an aids victim in “Philadelphia” to Puss in Boots in the “Shrek” movies as well as his sometimes turbulent private life, Banderas is possibly Spain’s best known Hollywood export.
Manchester added to summer timetables
By Simon Russell
BRITISH Airways will be operating flights between Alicante and Manchester
this summer, the firm have confirmed. On sale with immediate effect, the new flights will be at weekends only while BA will also be flying to Malaga, Mallorca, and Ibiza from Manchester. A basic fare is expected to start from £49 for the Alicante
JS
route with all details online. BA’s CEO Alex Cruz said “These are the destinations that our customers tell us they want to fly to so we look forward to a busy summer.” Manchester airport also enjoys good links with London increasing traveller’s options.
JACUZZI & SAUNA CENTER Wellnesspark Costa Blanca QUALITY OUTLET
Alicante Airport Shuttle-Bus Private Transfers of ALL sizes No party too big or too small Apartments & Hotel Bookings
SPECIAL QUALITY SPECIAL PRICE - SPECIAL SERVICE
AVENIDA VALENCIA - 03770 EL VERGER Benidorm Office: Levante,36 Edf. Ben-Loix. C/Lepanto,28. Mon - Sat: 09.30 - 14.30 - Telf. (0034) 96 588 9094 MON. - SAT.: 10 A.M. - 2 P.M. WEB EXCLUSIVES ONLINE www.resortcare.es WWW.WELLNESSPARK.ES - 965 750 227
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
7
Serial sex pest arrested Drug factory cuts off village
By Simon Russell
A man has been arrested in Elda and accused of making 13,500 phone calls of a sexual nature to women. Two of the victims of his calls were minors and one woman received an incredible 400 calls in two weeks – an average of more than one call an hour day and night. As the calls were made across Spain, the National Police had been investigating the case after receiving a number of complains and linking the cases. The calls in question relate to a period of just 100 days and the true amount of calls he made may never be known. The
accused is a 44 year old Spanish man and he is expected to be charged with stalking, a relatively new offence in Spain, defined as undermining the freedom and security of the victim.
He had obtained details of the women’s personal and professional life, probably from social media, information which he used in the calls and made them even more disturbing for the victims.
By Simon Russell
A major marijuana growing operation based in a small Catalan town was using so much electricity that the entire town of Sant Miquel de Fluvia was regularly experiencing power cuts. Many local inhabitants were aware that the drugs factory was causing the power problem but threats from the gang running the operation meant they were too afraid to tell the authorities. Marijuana growing uses an enormous
amount of power for heating and lighting conducive to the plants growth. This would appear to be what alerted the authorities, suspicious why a rural town of only 800 would require such huge amounts of electricity. The operation had been spread over several houses but the electricity spikes still set alarm bells ringing. Ten people have been arrested and over 1,600 marijuana plants confiscated said the local police.
Care home worker charged with fraud
By Simon Russell
A 48 year old Spanish woman has been arrested and charged with theft from a resident in the Alicante care home where she worked. It is alleged that the woman used a credit card belonging to a 79 year old
who resides permanently at the home. This happened more than twenty times over a period of two months. In fact while she was being monitored by police the card was still being used in various establishments in Alicante
although the cards owner was too unwell to leave the home where she was resident. The accused has regular access to the victim’s room in the capacity of her work, the police said and plenty of opportunity to remove and replace the credit card.
8
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Multiple charges faced after assault Arrest will lead
to extradition
By Simon Russell
A man has been arrested by the Guardia Civil in Albatera (Vega Baja) and is facing charges of robbery and sexual assault. In the incident that led to his eventual capture he stopped a woman who was walking her dog on an industrial estate near Callosa de Segura. He grabbed her and threatened her with a gun and also demanded to have sex with the woman. After a struggle he hit her with the gun and fired shots into the air. He then left the scene but a good
description by the victim led police to the man who they believe to be responsible for at least five other robberies in the area. All his victims were women on their own and the latest assault is seen as a dangerous escalation in his attacks. The man, a 26 year old Moroccan national, is charged
By Simon Russell
POLICE in Alicante province have arrested a Romanian national who was being sought under the terms of an international arrest warrant issued in Romania. The arrest was made in the town of Novelda after police had reason to believe he was in with assault, five charges of hiding in a property there.
theft and illegal possession of a firearm.
Octogenarian back on the grid
By Simon Russell
FOLLOWING outrage about the case of an 83 year old man in Alicante who had been living without power for more than two weeks, electricity has now been restored to his house in the Virgen del Carmen area of the city. It appeared that Jose’s carer had been pocketing his pension money which was supposed to pay the bills and the supplier eventually cut the electricity off, saying that they were under the
impression that the house was unoccupied. The pensioner has not only been without light but also heating over a bitterly cold period. As well as using candles, a serious fire risk, he had taken to sleeping with every blanket he owned. Eventually social services were made aware of the
Their information proved correct and they were able to enter the house and detain the man on 9 January. The 23 year old has been found guilty of several counts of theft in Romania and if returned there as expected he will be facing a three year prison sentence in his home country.
Pet rescue
By Simon Russell
A puppy was saved from a house fire in situation and arranged for the Cullera last week power to be restored and also although severe damage for a regular carer to visit Senor was done to the property Tejedor each afternoon. itself. Authorities were alerted in the early hours by an emergency call although fortunately by this time they arrived the human occupants had already evacuated the premises. However the dog, named Toy,
was trapped in the garage and in distress as smoke overwhelmed the building. The fire crew managed to break down the garage door and rescue the puppy who appeared unharmed by the incident. The cause of the fire is being investigated although it is believed flammable furnishings led to the blaze spreading so quickly.
Alicante Airport Shuttle-Bus Private Transfers of ALL sizes No party too big or too small Apartments & Hotel Bookings
Benidorm Office: Levante, Edf. Ben-Loix. C/Lepanto,28. Mon - Sat: 09.30 - 14.30 - Telf. (0034) 96 588 9094 WEB EXCLUSIVES ONLINE www.resortcare.es
10
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Kaisers Chiefs coming to Costas
By Simon Russell
LEADING British Indie group the Kaiser Chiefs have been announced as the surprise headline act in Castellon’s San San Festival in April. San San tends to attract Spanish acts as a rule and the presence of the Kaiser Chiefs will be sure to attract a good number of their fans over for the festival which is held at Easter this year. The band formed in 2000 and quickly became one of the biggest
groups in the UK with hits such as “Ruby” and “I predict a riot”. Front man Ricky Wilson is also well known as a judge on TV talent show “The Voice”. Other acts performing at this year’s festival include M Clan, Ninos Mutantes and Elefantes. The festival is in Benicassim, in the Castellon province of Valencia, where the summers Benicassim festival is held -regarded by many as the biggest in Europe after Glastonbury.
Unemployment back on the rise
By Simon Russell
AS is usually the case unemployment figures rose in the Alicante region at the start of the new year, in this instance by 1,003 in January compared to December. The Christmas period see’s the hiring of a large number of seasonal staff, many of whom are released as soon as the festive rush finishes.
The total of people officially unemployed in the province now stands at 171,049 while in Valencia as a whole the figure is 425,808, a rise of 6,845. Across Spain the total is 3.7 million people, an increase of 57,000 and still one of the highest per capita unemployment rates in Europe.
A gem of a day out
By Simon Russell
Prize winning structure vandalised
By Simon Russell
THE footbridge which spans the Barranco de las Ovejas in Alicante has become a regular target for vandals. Ten of the 36 orange crystal panels that illuminate the bridge and help make it such a striking feature have been smashed in what is clearly an intentional act. The incidents have occurred almost exclusively at weekend nights over recent weeks with the perpetrators escaping detection. Police have been urged to increase security in the area to halt the systematic destruction of the panels, whose breakage have
also caused safety issues by creating gaps in the structure. The footbridge won prizes for both design and construction when it was built in 2014.
OLIVA will be hosting the fifth annual Mineral Fair on the weekend of 11 and 12 February. One of the biggest such events across the Costa Blanca, with 6,000 attending last year, the fair has exhibitions and sales of minerals, gems and fossils, both locally and
from around the world. There are also children’s workshops as well as games and other activities for the youngsters plus a bar for the adults. Entry is free for all and is held at the Polivalent exhibition centre and opens from 10am until 2pm and 4.30pm until 9pm (8pm on Sunday).
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
11
Racing to help others
By Simon Russell
THE ninth edition of the Javea Race for Women (Cursa de la Donas) is to be held on 26 March with participants making a donation of €5 which goes to selected charities. This year’s beneficiaries are Adama, which helps children with attention deficit disorder and Aspanion for children with cancer. Although the race itself is a women only event, donations by men are more than welcome, say the organisers. All runners will be presented with a commemorative t-shirt with
this year’s chosen colour being fuchsia. The race is 5 kilometres long and is more of a fun run - so feel free to walk the distance if you prefer, the taking part is the main thing. For inscriptions or further information go to Intersport Javea, Avenida Trenc d’Alba No 17.
Space for Fido and friends
By Simon Russell
THE first dog park for Poble Nou de Benitatxell has now opened, close to the main car park in Les Capelletes. The space was inaugurated by the mayor and is 350 meters square and safe from traffic and other dangers for your pet. Owners will still be required to follow certain rules when using
the area, including the muzzling of their dogs and cleaning up after them, said Dirk Rheindorf from the Health Department. While the council will supply bins and help with the upkeep of the park there must be some collaboration from the dog owners as well, said Mr Rheindorf.
Four years for drug smuggler
By Simon Russell
A 33 year old woman who was found with a kilo of high grade cocaine when boarding the DeniaIbiza ferry last year has been sentenced to four years in jail by an Alicante judge. She was preparing to board the ferry in her car last July when she was stopped by police in a routine check. She was unable to give them a clear reason why she was travelling to the island and her behaviour prompted sufficient suspicion for the police to search her vehicle. They found the drugs hidden in the rear seats although attempts had
Schools coming into line
been made to conceal the haul in the event of a search. The cocaine was 70% pure and would have had a street value of €120,000 and it is By Simon Russell assumed that it was intended for MANY of the schools which distribution among clubbers on the opted out of the change in school notorious “party island”. hours for this academic year are now beginning to move over to the new timetable. Five schools in the Marina Alta are the latest to change leaving only a handful of schools in the area on the old “traditional” timetable which usually consisted of an eight hour opening period with a long siesta break in the middle of the day.
For many staff and parents the break was a throwback to a different time and caused problems in particular for those not living close to the schools.
12
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Gifts gratefully received
By Simon Russell
ONLINE children’s retailer “Moraig the Store” donated a number of toys and other gifts for some of Benitatxell’s most disadvantaged youngsters. The donations, made to the Social Services department, included educational games, sustainable toys and backpacks. Moraig the Store shares it’s name with the towns
By Simon Russell
famous Cala Moraig cove, and was CALPE is keen to encourage the one of the reasons the town was camping and caravanning tourism singled out for the donations. sector to come to the town in even greater numbers in a campaign led by councillor Jean van Parjis. Mr van Parjis believes that there is scope for attracting more interest to the Marina Alta town which is already popular with the camping community. Calpe was represented at the recent Fair of Travel and Camping in Stuttgart, Germany, and their stand saw a high demand for information from visitors to the fair. The town has two campsites and two areas
New superstore to open it’s doors
By Simon Russell
FRENCH supermarket giant Carrefour is set to open a hypermarket in Denia on 26 January. Located on the Madrigueres Poligon the store is opening on the site of the former Eroski. Ideal for their purposes, the unit is just under 5,000 m2 with easy access and plenty of parking. They will be employing over forty new members of staff initially and more during peak periods. Carrefour has risen to become the second biggest retailer in Spain over recent years and as well as groceries they sell a
wide range of domestic and electrical goods. Carrefour’s opening is a boost for the local economy after it was announced that Eroski was closing down there, with the Basque retail giant largely moving out of the Valencian Community in recent years.
Spring cleaning the town By Simon Russell
THE maintenance work in various public areas of Teulada-Moraira has been completed after eleven months the town hall has confirmed. A total of 49,000m2 of land has been cleared of dead foliage, trees in danger of falling, vegetation requiring cutting back, channels to be cleared and other works of
Hello Campers!
this nature. The areas worked on are Calles Guadalajara, Portet, Mar Labrador, Mar Negro, Rio Nalon, Sierra Benicadell, Badajoz and Avenida del Portet as well as Puerto Mazarron. The protected areas of the Senillar marshes and the path around the Font de l’Horta have also been maintained. The works cost a total of €10,500.
specifically for motorhomes, something lacking in many other similar sized resorts. There are also plans to collaborate further with the camping and touring industry itself, said the councillor.
A voice for the children
By Simon Russell
TEULADA Moraira has introduced the first children’s council in the town. Thirteen youngsters from the municipality have been elected to the council from years five and six of the secondary schools Sant Vicent Ferrer, Cap d’Or and IES Teulada. The group will get the chance to take part in the day to day running of the town, in particular issues which affect them such as sports, culture and education as well as areas like civic security and sustainability. Councillors Raul Llobel and Daniel Ibanco gave out certificates on behalf of the mayor and Mr Ibanco said “The job you are going to do is very important to us and you will have the difficult task of presenting
your vision of the town to your peers.” The children’s council will meet once a month to debate and present ideas relating to the improvement and welfare of Teulada-Moraira and its residents. These will then be documented and presented to the main town council at the end of the school year in June.
Diversity in action
By Simon Russell
THE Valencian Community’s Director General for Diversity, Antonio Raya, visited Denia and La Xara earlier this month. He went to see for himself the progress on the new Day Centre in La Xara which is currently under construction and due to be finished later this year. This will increase the number
of places for the disabled and they expect to have 20 regular users for the centre. Mr Raya also visited Denia’s centre for child development which has expanded its facilities to 35 users. He stressed the Generalitat’s continued commitment to diversity by helping the disabled and those with learning disabilities in the Marina Alta.
Pensioner behind crime wave
By Simon Russell
LOCAL Police and the Guardia Civil in Javea have arrested a German man in his mid sixties who they believe to be behind a spate of recent robberies in the area. It seems certain that the man is guilty of at least one robbery as he was caught red handed by the police while
breaking into a villa on the El Rafalet urbanization. The final arrest was the fruition of collaboration between the two forces following the wave of break-ins around Javea and Benitachell that had all the hallmarks of being committed by the same culprit.
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
Murderer tracked to Costa Blanca
By Simon Russell
A 39 year old Moldovan man has been arrested near El Campello after an Interpol warrant had been issued for his arrest. The warrant relates to a murder in Moldova in 2015 after another man had been shot and beaten to death. The arrested man is a Torrevieja resident who the Guardia Civil had information
would be travelling on a bus between France and Alicante. They intercepted the bus at a specially set up motorway checkpoint and, with their information proving correct, arrested the man. He has been transferred to Madrid for a hearing on the Interpol
13
Three arrested in dismembered corpse case
By Simon Russell
POLICE have two men aged 56 detained three and 25. The woman, warrant and is expected people in relation who is Spanish, has to be returned to Moldova. to last year’s grisly been accused of the discovery of an murder while the men, incomplete corpse on both Colombians, a rubbish tip in Elche. have been accused The three were all of concealing the arrested in Torrevieja body. The woman which was the is believed to live adoptead town of the in the La Loma 64 year old victim. area of Torrevieja, a It is thought that popular residential the man had been and tourist area. murdered and his cut The investigation up body hidden in a began after refuse municipal wheelie workers made the bin before ending up grim discovery of the on the landfill site. body parts - a head The trio in and limbs - while detention are a sorting waste on 31 Other investments woman of 45 and August last year. included energy efficient power systems in the Read major municipal buildings and the purchase of two Online electrical vehicles for town www.buzznews.es maintenance.
Hybrid for the police
By Simon Russell
THE delivery of a hybrid police car has been the culmination of Bigastro’s investment in becoming a more energy efficient town. The council spent a total of €145,000 on all the projects,
which they calculate will save the towns coffers €17,500 a year, meaning that the investment will pay for itself in around eight years while helping the environment at the same time.
Police seeking park vandals
By Simon Russell
CREVILLENT Town Hall has said it is taking steps to deal with the vandals who have been responsible for a series of incidents in the town’s parks recently. Most of the trouble has centred on the “Parc Nou” and includes graffiti, broken sprinklers, broken glass and the like on an almost daily basis. Services Councillor Francisco Verdu has said that the police are investigating the matter and in the meantime the Parks
Services will ensure that repairs and clean-ups are carried out promptly. Security has also been increased in the affected areas.
Computers donated
By Simon Russell
HIDRAQUA, the company responsible for the drinking water in the Crevillent area, has donated seven computers to various causes in the town. The computers were previously used by the firm but are not
compatible with their current systems and have been reconfigured for day to day use at the firm’s expense. Caritas, the Red Cross, and the Conferencia San Vicente de Paul were the charities benefitting
from the donation, made by the Hidraqua Manager, Isabel Butron. She said that her firm has a policy of social responsibility and helping the community they serve wherever possible.
14
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Seniors centre reopens
By Simon Russell
THE Casa de la Tercera Edad senior citizens centre on Calle San Pacual, Torrevieja, has reopened after a closure of eight months. The centre had been closed back in the summer as it did not have the correct documentation, specifically a business licence, and had also prompted some complaints from residents in the area regarding noise. The paperwork has now been obtained and the mayor, Jose Dolon, officially reopened
the centre on 30 January. The town has used the closure period to better soundproof the building to address the complaints about the music and other noise issues. The mayor has promised that users of the centre will be more respectful of their immediate neighbours when musical and other events occur. Disabled bathrooms have also been fitted, access to the building improved and fire hoses placed in various locations.
Pigging Out
By Simon Russell
OVER two thousand people turned out in Torrevieja to celebrate the Dia Internacional del Cerdo – the International Day of the Pig. Unfortunately for the animals involved the day is a celebration of pork products rather than the creatures themselves and there was certainly plenty of the meat around. Half a thousand kilos of pork in all its various forms was consumed on the day, roasted and grilled on the spits and planchas around Plaza de Encarnacion where the event was held. Participants made their way through ten
barrels of beer, a hundred litres of wine and 300 kilos of bread said organisers. There were also attractions for the kids as well as a performance by the QK Dance Academy. This was the seventeenth annual festival which has now become a firm fixture in the towns winter timetable.
Indoor events to look out for
By Simon Russell
FEBRUARY can be a harsh month for the weather even over here in Spain. Thankfully, El Campello have organised some indoor events for the month for those who want to escape from the cold and enjoy some culture at the same time. Friday 10 February is a free play “El secreto de las cucarachas” (adults only and in Spanish) at the Streets and squares will also be town’s theatre, with shows at 6pm cleaned more frequently, for ex- and 9pm. Saturday the 11th sees a ample Plaza de la Constitucion will concert at the same venue which change from being cleaned every three months to weekly.
New broom for cleaning services
By Simon Russell
FCC Servicios, the firm awarded the concession to clean Crevillent, presented some of their machinery that will be used while outlining their plans. These include the introduction of DNA testing of dog faeces and the registration of the town’s estimated 2,500 dogs on a DNA database. They will also be aiming to clean up landfill sites and increase rubbish containers while the rubbish collection will increase to seven days a week from the current six. On the towns industrial estate, collection will increase from three to six days a week.
is a performance of “Nus” by Pep Gimono and Miquel Gil, two leading protagonists in the traditional Valencian music scene. Entry is €3 and can be purchased in advance at the box office. There is a sporting flavour to the events held on February 17, the Sports Gala again at the theatre/Casa de la Cultura with entry free for all. For more information on all events visit www.elcampello.es where the details are also available in English.
Waiter accused of rape
By Simon Russell
PROSECUTORS have asked for a sentence of seven years, if found guilty, for a man accused of rape at the nightclub in Elche where he worked as a waiter. The incident goes back to 2003 when the accused was alleged to have met the victim while working.
They were kissing but the victim alleges that when she asked him to stop the man refused and went on to rape her. The incident occurred in a storeroom of the club which the man had access to as a member of staff.
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
Good year for foodies
By Simon Russel
BENIDORM has confirmed its gastronomic calendar for 2017 with the first event kicking off at the end of this month. The sixth Conferencia de la Cuchara runs from February 25 to March 5, followed by the Gastronomic fair on May 16. The summer Tapas and Pincho competition is the longest event of the year, running from June 10 to 18. September brings the Concurso de la Brocheta and the year’s final event is the sixth rice festival at the end of October. The organisers have
said that they are sticking with the same schedule as previous years so as not to saturate the market, and instead are focusing on improving each very different gastronomic event.
Read Online www.buzznews.es
Listening to residents
By Simon Russel
A spokesman for Benidorm’s Town Hall has said that they resolved 90% of all incidents and complaints officially reported to them last year. Jose Gonzalez de Zarate said that of 2,623 incidents logged as received, 2,274 have
been resolved with the remainder still pending resolution. Facebook was the favoured method for residents to send issues although e-mail, the municipal website and the post were all available channels as well as face to face meetings. The most
common category of incident was the urban environment followed by security concerns and transport or mobility issues. As the resolution target was set at 80% the Town Hall is pleased with the final figures confirmed the spokesman.
15
Robot Wars
By Simon Russel
THE fifth annual Robot Competition was held at the Alcoy campus of Valencia University at the end of January. Twenty Valencian secondary schools entered eighty robots into the contest which they had built at school as projects during their technology lessons. Prizes were awarded for design and speed as the robots were pitted against each other throughout the day. Alcoy is one of the top technology
campuses in Spain and has itself constructed robots for European wide competition – all in the name of progress of course.
Paying the price of the storms By Simon Russel
ALTEA’S bill for the damage caused by the recent storms has been estimated at €3.5 million said mayor Jaume Llinares last week. The most serious damage was caused between 20 and 22 January and related to roads, breakwaters and other structures caught in the areas worst weather in years. The worst hit place for costs will be the road linking Altea and Alfaz del Pi said the mayor. The municipality’s agricultural sector also incurred an estimated €6 million worth of damage due to wind, flooding and even snow.
16
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Sex traffickers arrested By Simon Russel
TWO people have been arrested in Benidorm and charged with forcing women into prostitution in clubs and on the streets of the city. The accused are of Nigerian origin as are their victims who had
been persuaded to leave Nigeria with the promise of good work and accommodation. Two people have also been arrested in Mallorca as part of the same operation and it is believed that they are all a part of a larger organisation. The women were smuggled into Spain through various routes via countries such as Italy and Egypt.
The accused were said to enjoy a high end lifestyle while the victims were kept in terrible conditions said the police. It is feared that much of the profits was sent back to Nigeria to fund further trafficking operations and this arrest may only be the tip of the iceberg. The operation was part of the National Police’s plan for tackling
people trafficking set up in 2013. If you have any reason to believe that someone is being sexually exploited against their will you can contact the helpline anonymously on 900 10 50 90 or E-Mail trata@policia.es
Every cloud has a silver lining
By Simon Russell
SOME of the areas worst affected by the winter’s heavy rains will be receiving reduced water bills, officials have confirmed. Benidorm, Alfaz del Pi, La Nucia, Villajoiosa, Finestrat and Polop will all be charged over 30% less for water as the reservoirs and water supply have reached something approaching normal levels for the first time in years. Benidorm’s deputy councillor for water supplies, Francisco Saez, said that the Amadorio and Guadalest reservoirs replenishment means that water supplies are guaranteed until the end of the year. Mr Saez also commented on the recent problems with the purity of some drinking water as a result of the floods, saying this was caused by water being dragged across the earth and leaving residues which are unpleasant but not dangerous.
WhatsApp alerts for city By Simon Russell
WHATSAPP, the mobile phone app, has become the preferred form of communication for many Spaniards and expatriates alike, something Altea town hall is aware of. To tap into this they are offering an alert service through WhatsApp to inform citizens of incidents and events and keep them up to date with what is going on in the town. Councillor for Communications Peter Barber said that the system is completely secure and is one way only.
The number to obtain the service is 673170140 or check out www.altea.es for more information.
WORLD DAY of PRAYER in Albir
By Elaine Mitchell
On Friday 3rd March services will be held all over the world starting as the sun rises over Samoa and the last service will be held when the sun sets over American Samoa. In ALBIR our service starts at 4pm and we are looking forward to welcoming a good number of people. This year the service has been written by the Christian women of the Philippines. It is an extremely interesting International and Interdenominational service. It is open to EVERYONE, not just women.
Light typical refreshments afterwards. You can find us in the centre of Albir, from the main road, turn up the hill, Camino de la Cantera, (quite near the Consum Supermarket), signposted Rober Palas Hotel, turn right in front of the hotel and the Church (Norwegian Seaman’s Church) is just inside the next road on the left, Carrer Mart. There is plenty of parking. If you need any more information please contact local administrator, Elaine Mitchell on 96 686 4962 or mobile 636 164 467.
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
17
New sporting area for park Money for
laundering
By Simon Russel
THE L’Aiguera Park in Benidorm’s old town now has a new sporting and recreational facility. Dubbed a multisport track, the 24x12 metre construction can be used for football, basketball and similar sports. Located at the end of the parks green area, the new facility has been provided to meet the demand for leisure areas by Benidorm’s youngsters, said Mayor Toni Perez. This follows the recent opening of a similar track at La Cala which has proved very popular. The construction cost €60,000, money spent on levelling the ground and then installing the track, constructed of concrete and natural stone, as well as goalposts and basketball hoops. Although the works have now
By Simon Russell
By Simon Russel
been successfully completed, it will not be available for use
Training with a bang
BENIDORM City Council has scheduled a training course for non-professionals to legally enable them to use fireworks and other pyrotechnic material at public events. The course will be run by a recognised expert and attendees must belong to a recognized organisation and must be
BENDIORM’S L o c a l Government Board has approved a subsidy of €40,000 for the city’s Doble Amor Association with immediate effect. This is to allow the organisation to continue its work at their special occupational centre and also until the end of the month as the the Doble Amor Laundry. materials need to fully set.
The laundry employs 48 d i s a b l e d workers who might otherwise struggle to find employment, while the occupational centre caters for 51 local people with disabilities. The council said this amounts to “an exceptional extension of the subsidy granted in 2016 and is urgently needed to allow the work to continue”.
aged fifteen or over with a fee of €8 to attend. 15 to 17 year olds will require parental permission. The course is in the Casa del Fester on 18 February. The training is to bring Valencia into line with the European Union’s safety regulations regarding pyrotechnics, in especially public displays.
Public building finally approved
By Simon Russell
three floors with a total size of 180 square metres and will serve as a multifunctional public building for hosting events, associations and so forth. It could also be used as a youth club with the possibility of the Local Police moving to the site also on the table.
CALLOSA d’en Sarria have confirmed details of the construction of the Polifuncional building in the town, a project initially proposed in 2014. The building should now be completed in 2018 at a cost of half a million Euros. The completed structure will have
18
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Car ring broken up Good eggs
By Simon Russell
By Simon Russell
THREE people have been arrested in Benidorm on suspicion of being behind a Europe wide stolen car ring. The operation began after a number of top end stolen cars were recovered in Rome. The police, including members of the Malaga force, had been monitoring the group of two women and one man for a few weeks prior to the arrests. The three are of Spanish and Brazilian origin and one is understood to have a police record for similar offences. They have been charged with vehicle theft and document forgery and remain in detention.
Jobs for the girls
THE Vilamuseu in Villajoyosa has presented its showpiece display for the winter “El huevos de la vida eternal” or the eggs of eternal life. These unusually named pieces are ornately decorated ostrich eggs found recently in the Jovada sector of the Casetes necropolis. They appeared to have formed part of a burial rite and historians believe that the eggs were used
as vessels for the soul in ancient times. The museum has also announced its full programme of events for 2017. This includes an installation relating to the towns historical coastal defences and two major exhibitions on clothing and fashion accessories from ancient times to the present day. For a full programme of events and further information see the town halls website www.villajoyosa.com
By Simon Russel
ALTEA closed it’s “Books for Autumn” cycle on 21 November with a presentation about the work of Altean author Joan Borja. Run through October and November the five presentations attracted over 300 avid readers to the event which focused
on local authors, four of whom were born in Altea. This is the second year of the book cycle and the Councillor for Culture, Diego Zaragoza, declared the programme a great success at the closing ceremony and fully expects the event to be repeated in 2017.
Park project underway
By Simon Russel
ALICANTE’S Provincial Council is funding the refurbishment of the Escoles Velles in L’Alfas del Pi and the work has now commenced on the quarter of a million euro project. The area had been used as a car park until recently, but will now be converted into a public space for all rather than what is currently regarded as an eyesore. A municipally owned building on the site needs to be demolished as the first stage of the works, while issues around drainage also need to be
sorted out. Eventually the park will be a green landscaped area with easy access for all, with the work By Simon Russel scheduled to be completed in VICENTE Llinares, former mayor of early May.
Storage thief suspects held
By Simon Russel
THE Guardia Civil have arrested two people, a man and a woman, in Villajoyosa after linking them to a series of thefts from storage units in the town. There had been fifteen separate complaints of theft in recent weeks from the units. Acting on this the Guardia monitored the facility and caught the paid red handed while
Jail for mayor in concrete case
removing goods. It is believed that the goods, almost all second hand, were being sold on at Rastros, second hand shops and the like. It is unknown if all thefts from the units have been reported as some of the goods stored may themselves have been “of dubious origin” as the police described it.
the tiny Marina Baja town of Orcheta, has been sentenced to three months in prison for his part in the illegal construction of a concrete plant near the town. Prosecutors told how Linares allowed the plant to be built despite planning permission being clearly denied by his predecessor. The land the plant was built on actually had special protection but the mayor overruled this, a move which the courts have declared to be illegal. At the time of the construction Llinares said that although there was
no licence to develop the land he had expected it to be obtained in the near future. However the building work should never have been allowed to commence and his actions showed
Marching against cancer
By Simon Russel
OVER 2,500 people turned out for La Nucia’s seventh March Against Cancer event on 4 February, in defiance of the wind, rain and hail on the day. Organised by the towns Health Department in conjunction with the local cancer organisation this was 500 more marchers than last year,
despite the poor weather. Over €5,400 was raised in the event which was held in recognition of World Cancer Day and aims to support the on-going research into the disease. Marches were also held in other Costa Blanca towns with 700 turning out in Calpe for example.
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
19
Call Now +34 966 26 50 72
Fund Acquires Residential Properties in Germany, Spain and the Netherlands The residential team of investment manager Catella Real Estate has acquired a total of 650 residential units in Germany, Spain and the Netherlands for its Catella Wohnen Europa property fund. The overall purchase price was some EUR 84.45 million. In Germany, 96 business apartments in the centre of Mainz were acquired for EUR 13 million. In addition, 84 units were acquired in St. Augustin, located between Bonn and Cologne, for some EUR 11 million. The Spanish portfolio has been extended with 216 residential units in Madrid, acquired for EUR 23.45 million. The Netherlands was the target of an acquisition of 254 residential units, bought for some EUR 37 million in Almere, east of Amsterdam and Den Bosch, the capital of the North Brabant province. “Demand among our investors for attractive property investments in these markets remains high. We
are therefore delighted to have secured these attractive core properties for the fund. We continue to see appealing opportunities in the European residential markets, and will focus on securing further attractive assets for our clients. In this way, we can ensure that the fund generates sustainable cash flow for our investors,” says Markus Wiegleb, Portfolio Manager at Catella. The Catella Wohnen Europa fund is a property fund that has acquired a volume of EUR 339.8 million and is managed by Catella’s residential team in Berlin. “We want our fund to achieve a broad diversification within Europe. Conducting investments in Spain, the Netherlands and Denmark, and with the investment focus in Germany, we have already been able to minimise the risks in the asset class,” says Xa-
vier Jongen, head of Catella’s initiative in residential property funds. For more information, please contact: Xavier Jongen Head of Residential Funds Tel: +49 89-189-16-65-37
E-mail: xavier.jongen@catella.de Press contact: Ann Charlotte Svensson Head of Group Communications Tel:+46 8-463-32-55, +46 72-51011-61 E-mail: anncharlotte.svensson@ catella.se
20
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
21
BUYING or SELLING your PROPERTY? It’s TIME for a FRESH approach
REDUCED TO SELL
Alcalai
175,000€
Villa
Ref: GV 201672-A
Build: 108 m Plot: 600 m2
2
3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
INLAND
Av. Joanot Martorell, Nº 17-C 03727 JALON (Alicante)
Javea
375,000€
Villa
Ref: GV 201556-A
Build: 217 m Plot: 1138 m2
2
4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms
Tel: 96 648 2480 info@garciavillas.es www.garciavillas.co.uk
Jalon
260,000€
Villa
Ref: GV 201793-A
Build: 103 m Plot: 600 m2
2
3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
COASTAL
Ctra. Cabo La Nao, Pla, 122. Bloque 12-Bajo, 03730 JAVEA (Alicante)
www.cbpropertysales.co.uk designvillasmoraira real estate agency builder and developer architect and interior design studio
Offering properties for sale in Moraira, Benissa and the surrounding area.
Selling your Property?
C/ Dr. Calatayud, 8 Moraira (Alicante) (0034) 965 744 421 (0034) 630 947 037
info@designvillasmoraira.com www.designvillasmoraira.com
We have clients waiting
Ctra. Moraira-Calpe Nº7, Local 3 • 03724 Moraira We are looking for properties for our clients in all price ranges
Roland Tel: 608 774 545 Charley Tel: 634 360 935 Email: roland@cbpropertysales.com
22
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
23
24
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Business Feature
Wellnesspark Costa Blanca The Wellness Park Costa Blanca was established in 2014 offering a centre for the world’s premium wellness products such as the original Jacuzzis®, whirlpools, spas, swim spas, swimming pools, infrared cabins, saunas, barrel saunas, hot tubs and all of the accessories that you may need to complement your lifestyle. Hans and his team welcome you come along and take advantage of his 20 years experience. Originally from Austria has gained his knowledge from some of the best companies, he has created a complete centre with over 500 square meters dedicated to Jacuzzis and Spas situated in El Verger, Alicante. The Saunas at Wellness Park are primarily manufactured in Canada using top quality red cedar wood as well top of the line models from Switzerland, produced using Swiss stone pine. Many of the Saunas can be fitted out with steamers effectively creating a bio sauna and even with infrared emitters that offer a whole new form of wellness and therapeutic benefits. Scientific studies of patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed a reduction in pain, stiffness and fatigue during infrared sauna therapy, while regular usage of the IR Sauna can assist in alleviating pain by relaxing the muscles and helping to excrete toxins more efficiently than with conventional saunas. The company are dealers of the most original brands including Jacuzzi and of course Master Spas from the USA, many of the top of the line
models are available for demonstration at the showroom. The latest models are fitted with after glow LED lights directly inside the jets providing colour therapy, soothing colours that deliver an ambience and true sense of relaxation. The Swimming Spa was developed by Olympic champion swimmer Michael Phelps it combines swimming with a spa, with in built wave propulsion system or counter current it has all the benefits of a spa and swimming pool in one, but offers clients the freedom and flexibility to be able to install it with ease at the fraction of the cost that a traditional pool. Saving clients expensive planning and permission, licenses, architects and excavation, it is simply dropped in place and ready to go the same day. It offers far more economical running costs, less maintenance and less chemical and power usage than a standard swimming pool, and offers the benefits of a spa at the same time, making swimming and relaxation available year-round. The Wellness Park take pride in offering a complete service,they can customize the product to fit the needs and requirements of each individual client and offer a thoroughly professional service. Their installation team are trained by the very companies that manufacture their products, so clients can be sure that the team have expert knowledge and are able to offer a first class professional service. There are discounts and promotions available all year round on any ex-showroom model, with
JS
huge savings and a lot of extras thrown, the large showroom has a truly great selection on offer and something to suit all tastes and budgets. Wellness Park is open 6 days a week from Monday to Saturday, 10am – 2pm and their sales team, Hans and Frankie are happy to arrange viewings and consultations outside of these times by appointment.
Wellness Park Costa Blanca Avenida Valencia 36, 03770 El Verger www.Wellnesspark.es - 965 750 227
JACUZZI & SAUNA CENTER Wellnesspark Costa Blanca QUALITY OUTLET
SPECIAL QUALITY SPECIAL PRICE - SPECIAL SERVICE
AVENIDA VALENCIA 36 - 03770 EL VERGER MON. - SAT.: 10 A.M. - 2 P.M. WWW.WELLNESSPARK.ES - 965 750 227
www.buzznews.es
Living
February 14th
25
Home & Garden
A Better Nights Sleep? Lying in one position can creat stiffness. A mattress should be supportive enough to take the weight of your body without sagging, yet firm enough for you to turn with ease. If you have heard about memory foam , you maybe wondering if it could improve your sleep. Some people swear by it and others arent so enthusiatic. Firstly what is memory foam? It was desing in the mid 60´s for NASA airplane seats and it is made with a substance called viscoelastic.it is both highly
energy absorbent and soft. Memory foam molds to the body, It responds to heat and pressure, evenly dsitributing body weight , aiding in the blood circulation around the body.`giving a feeling of weightlessness` Now that memory foam has become more comercialised it is used in the bed industry ,also for cushioning hemlmets and shoes .also the medicine industry use it in prosthetics and other products to prevent pressure on limbs. What is the best matttress for back pain? is a dificult
question. However few studies acknowledge that memory foam can help in a lot of peoples cases. Each individuals needs have to be met, weight factors ,stature , age , sleeping position preferences. A medium to firm support of mattress will benefit the sleeper more than simply just firm. Now adays there are many combinations of memory foam and types of memory foam. Full size memory foam mattress´s can be expensive and the usual rule applies you
get what you pay for.there are some disadvantages with memory foam such as it retains heat more than other materials.you can feel like you sleep in it ,more than on it.and cheaper qualities are dificult to diferate from the good quality memory foams. However such things as a trusted brand , the seller being able to tell you where the product was made and the seller being able to offer a good long time guarantee on the product ,other previous people which have purchased the product recommend them ,are good things to look out for.
Memory foam mixed with naturals, memory foam gel,memory foam perforated, memory foam of different densities. Memory foam with pocket springs or full memory foam mattress. Speak to LEOS SOFTFURNISHINGS SUPERSTORE staff in Altea or call 96584848. They have been selling mattress´s ,beds, bedding ,pillows and mattress toppers for over 25 years, their friendly and knowledgable staff will advise with full transparency.
26
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
WEEKLY WORDSEARCH
CODE CRACKER
Find All The Words - In & Out Access Approach Casement Chimney Doorway
Entrance Entry Escape Exit Flue
Funnel Gate Hatch Ingress Opening
Orifice Outlet Portal Slot Vent
SUDOKU (EASY)
QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS
1 Snow storm (8) 6 Possess (3) 9 Supply with necessary kit (5) 10 Replies (7) 11 Chip shop fish (7) 13 Cash (5) 14 English county (6) 15 Device for taking photographs (6) 19 Casual trousers (5) 21 Ungainly (7) 22 Sold from the cask (7) 23 Subject (5) 24 Male child (3) 25 Duplicitous (3-5)
DOWN
2 Wash (7) 3 Adjustable fastening (3) 4 Northernmost American state (6) 5 Go ashore (9) 6 Large sea (5) 7 Unpleasant (5) 8 Systematic procedure (6) 12 Omission (9) 16 Instance (7) 17 Kidnap (6) 18 Military pageant (6) 19 Betrayer (5) 20 Once more (5) 23 Hot drink (3)
Window
SUDOKU (MEDIUM)
SUDOKU (HARD)
Find the 9 letter word and as many other words as you can!
SCORE BRILLIANT 60 EXCELLENT 45 GOOD 30 GREAT SCORE FOR KIDS 25
N Y D E A T S BR
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
!
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
THIS WEEKS
HOROSCOPES ARIES
TAURUS
GEMINI
CANCER
Down 1 Recoil from a psychiatrist (6) 2 Drug distributed in Paris (7) 3 Mushrooms giving amusement to American soldier (6) 5 Rugby Union girl gets German measles (7) 6 Cockney’s mate in a distant country (5) 7 Endless oriental holiday in spring (6) 9 Rough site being redeveloped? That’s good (9) 13 Foremen making blunders? That’s about right (7) 14 Great joy when kinsman loses his head? (7) 15 Rub away a bread roll (6) 16 Attempt to carry one pound in hat (6) 18Land at the end of a passage? (5) 20It doesn’t matter if it’s dis or dat duck? (5)
Across 1 Stick with a Scottish island (6) 4 Voice of wisdom making nothing clear, perhaps? (6) 8 Amateurish pro in Yorkshire city (5) 9 Jewish teacher on back street finding animals (7) 10 Nuns’ rig designed for looking after the sick (7) 11 Permission to quit? (5) 12 Dark horse disturbing one’s sleep? (9) 17 Short fibre, possibly (5) 19 Orchestra leader to write tune out of doors (4-3) 21 Speech that may be written on an envelope (7) 22 Exercise is a bore (5)
23 Asleep, but prepared to slip away (6) 24 Die in the attempt, like dedicated followers of fashion? (6)
Scribble Pad
PUZZLE ANSWERS - See page 51
27
LEO
VIRGO
ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) The sun closing in on Neptune equals confusion, but also an increased sensitivity to your own needs and a loved one’s, beginning this week. But don’t get into a contest over relationships. Pull together, and step forward, united. TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st) You could either be intensely secretive or outright blatant this week. The sky is also illuminating different people’s, perhaps previously hidden, strengths. In many ways, you’re trying to help others and look out for those in need. GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st) This week’s a bit like a game of cat and mouse. You hunt down thrills and spills, but there are also opportunities to gain better understanding and selfawareness open to you. And don’t forget to indulge in some reward come the weekend. CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd) You’ve an eye to the long-term this week, but your perspectives will likely change. Anyone that’s emotionally involved with you must think clearly about what they want if you’re having a wobble yourself. Someone wants your insight to solve a dilemma at the weekend. LEO (July 24th-August 23rd) Your willingness to embrace opportunity on the back of the eclipse could bring about something magical in both you and all those people that are drawn into your orbit. Water sign people - Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio - bring you inspiration and offer you a sense of fulfillment, or let you off the hook. Be sociable at the weekend. VIRGO (August 24th-Sept 23rd) Some weeks require that you stand still and think and this is one of them. There are rushes of love, excitement and sexual energy in the air but also look for a guidance and understanding. The weekend’s sky fires up your creative thinking.
LIBRA
LIBRA (Sept 24th-Oct 23rd) Sound corny but dreams can come true after an eclipse so don’t stop believing. At least that’s the way the song goes and this sums you up this week. Try not to take everything so seriously at the weekend, and trust in the good deeds of others. You’re a magnet for love.
SCORPIO
SCORPIO (Oct 24th-Nov 22nd) Plan. Plan. Plan. And then plan some more. Once you have the framework in place, then all the rest falls into place. It’s as simple as all that, and not half as boring as it sounds. Even though you can’t deal with things as swiftly as you’d like necessarily, that doesn’t mean you should hang around if you see an opportunity.
SAGITTARIUS
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23rd-Dec 21st) Stick close to friends because they’ll be your closest allies this week, even if you haven’t been there for them lately. You’re in the emotional driving seat at the weekend, plus the sky also aids and abets your realisation of the fact that there are certain dreams that are worth pursuing in this life.
CAPRICORN
CAPRICORN (Dec 22nd-Jan 20th) Thinking way ahead of yourself makes you romp in at first place in this week’s race. The sky could catapult you towards major opportunities at work this week, or at least show you that the next rung on the ladder. The weekend’s planetary alignments help you banish worries and stresses at home that you thought were here to stay.
AQUARIUS
AQUARIUS (Jan 21st-Feb 19th) An idea you’re galloping ahead with gathers further momentum. Don’t be surprised if you get let off the hook at work. Work out for yourself if you’re being too suspicious at the weekend - you really do leave the rest of us standing when it comes to this kind of thing.
PISCES
PISCES (Feb 20th-March 20th) The determination from the eclipse in your sign percolates down through the week making you sparkle. Single? Someone could be preying on your mind so much that there’s barely room for anything else. Whatever your relationship status, it’s your heart that rules this week.
28
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
29
30
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Moo - Javea
A new steak and burger restaurant, “Moo Steak and Burger” opened their doors in 2016 with a prime location on the Arenal seafront of Javea. Their concept is simple, great quality and great value food in comfortable and beautiful surroundings. A modern twist on what I would say is one of the UK’s long time gastronomic traditions of Steaks and Grills, with gourmet burgers and the old favourite of Sunday lunch. It says it all in the name, except for the fact that Moo do offer a range of other dishes that include Moules Mariniere,
Ratatouille topped with cheese and fish stew. The range of burgers include varieties such as Pulled Pork and Chicken so there really is something for everyone. Moo is also ideal for lunch time with a light menu of sandwiches and tapas plus daily specials which are also very popular. Recently Moo launched their Sunday roasts and that has seen week after week of
full bookings. Traditional desserts have made their name here and my recommendation is the delicious Eton Mess. A steak restaurant needs to be exceptional at one thing of course and that’s cooking steaks to perfection while using only the best high grade beef and you won’t be dissappointed on that front. We had baked mussels with a parmesan and herb crust plus grilled king prawns with garlic butter for starters...both excellent. For me the main had to be a fillet steak and this came served with coleslaw and hand cut chips. This is a perfect combination and the steak was served rare, just as I ordered it. Highly recommended and even better was the burger relish to dip your chips in... The lunchtime special is 2 courses and a glass of
wine for just 9:95€. What a great way to relax during the day, with great service, tasty food, good wine even a view of the deep blue sea and all for a great price as well.. Paseo Amanecer, 03738 Platja de L’arenal, Javea, Alicante, Spain Phone: +34 966 93 75 24 / 672474121 Hours: Open today · 12PM–12AM e mail: paul@moojavea.com
32
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Chicken and chorizo empanadas For the filling
4 chicken thighs, on the bone and skin on 1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, crushed 100g/3½oz British-style chorizo, finely diced ½ tsp cumin seeds 50g/1¾oz raisins salt and pepper
For the empanada dough
150g/5½oz unsalted butter 300g/10½oz plain flour large pinch salt 1 free-range egg, lightly beaten beaten egg, to finish Heat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. For the filling, put the chicken thighs in a small roasting dish, season well all over with salt and pepper and roast for about 45 minutes, or until cooked through. Set aside to cool a little. Meanwhile, make the pastry. Melt the butter and leave it to cool slightly. Put the flour in a large bowl and mix in the salt. Pour in the butter and egg. Start mixing, adding 3-5 tablespoons of water as you go, until you have a soft dough. Turn this out onto a clean work surface and knead it gently for a couple of minutes, or until smooth. Return the dough to its bowl, cover and set aside to rest while you prepare the filling. To finish the filling, heat the oil in a frying pan over a medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until soft. Add the garlic, chorizo, cumin seeds and raisins. Cook over a medium heat for 5–8 minutes, stirring often,
until the chorizo is cooked. Remove from the heat. Once the chicken thighs are cool enough to handle, remove the skin. Pull all the meat from the bones and chop it roughly. Add to the chorizo mixture. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed (the chorizo is already quite salty), then leave to cool completely. Turn the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6 and line a large baking tray with baking parchment. Lightly flour the work surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of 3-4mm. Use a 12cm/4½in cutter or a small bowl to cut out 10 discs. You will probably need to re-roll the offcuts once to get this many. Divide the filling between the discs. Dampen the edges of the dough with water then fold over one half of each disc to make a semicircular parcel. Press the edges together firmly then crimp or press the edges with a fork. Put the empanadas on the baking tray and brush with beaten egg. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden-brown. Eat them warm, on their own or with a chilli sauce.
Treating Cats with Fur Balls
One of the wonderful things we all love about cats is their soft, delicate fur. When they ingest dead, loose hairs in the process of grooming, what usually happens is that they pass through the digestive system without any problems. However, if too much hair builds up in the stomach, it causes irritation of the stomach lining, and this when a furball will be produced. Fur balls can be a recurrent problem for cats, particularly
Residencia canina y felina Boarding kennel & Cattery
those from long-haired breeds. It is an unpleasant experience for cats, and symptoms generally include vomiting, unproductive retching, constipation and a loss of appetite. This article looks at how cats suffering from fur balls can be treated, and what can be done to prevent them becoming a problem.
Sometimes cats who suffer from furballs may eat grass and garden plants to try and medicate themselves. Grass causes them to vomit, which may also bring up the fur ball as well. Thus, if you see your cat eating grass, this may be an early indication that they are suffering from fur dSi esdnc e/sinece balls. 119 97777
RESIDENCIA CANINA Y FELINA BOARDING KENNEL & CATTERY Habitaciones individuales Ozono Hilo musical Calefacción Parques ajardinados Servicio a domicilio Admitimos todas las razas
Individual rooms Ozono Music Heated floor system Landscaped playgrounds Free home delivery service All types of dogs & cats allowed
One thing owners can do to help prevent fur balls is regular combing of their cat’s hair. This will get rid of much of the dead hair before it can be ingested. Finetoothed combs are best for short haired cats, while widetoothed combs tend to be more suitable for long haired cats. It’s not advisable to use brushes, because they are much less effective at getting all the loose hair out. One of the traditional remedies for furballs is petroleum
jelly. A small amount is applied to a cat’s paw, so the cat can lick it up. The molecules of petroleum jelly are too large to be absorbed, so they retain their form and act as a lubricant to help the ingested hair through the cat’s digestive system and out in the normal way. There are varieties of petroleum jelly in different flavours (such as tuna) which are designed especially for cats. These will make the jelly more palatable to cats, so are a good option if your cat shows reluctance towards this treatment. Another common treatment for the condition is natural herb tablets. These tablets are a mixture of herbs including valerian root, dandelion root, and senna leaf, powdered and pressed into tablet form. It works as a gentle laxative, so it is generally given for the relief of constipation or to help treat cats suffering from furballing. It is recommended that cats who are experiencing noticeable discomfort because of furballs are given one of these tablets daily. In addition, it is also a good idea
to give cats who are prone to fur balls one tablet a day during their moulting period. The one caveat to bear in mind when giving herbal treatments such as these is that they are not suitable for pregnant or lactating females. Once cats get rid of their furballs, they normally recover quickly, and are soon back to normal. However, it is important to be aware that your cat may be suffering from dehydration because of the vomiting, and may need a special diet for a few days.
34
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Hospital Veterinario Marina Baixa Technology & kindliness for healthier pets
Hospital Veterinario Marina Baixa: Technology and kindliness for healthier pets. From its beginnings, the Marina Baixa veterinary hospital bets on the training and specialization of its team of veterinarians and nurses, and for the implementation of state-of-the-art high technology. Endoscopy, Ultrasonograpphy, CT
scan and high field (1,5 teslas)MRI are services offered . It is a reference center in traumatology, neurosurgery, cardiology, oncologic surgery and rehabilitation and physiotherapy. The center focuses on the most innovative techniques such as regenerative medicine through the use of platelet-rich plasma (growth factors) and stem cell therapy. It has the HVMB Pet Wellness Center where patients with articular, locomotor, neurological and obesity problems are treated with techniques such as massages, TENS, acupuncture and hydrotherapy through a swimming pool with underwater treadmill. For the wellness of the pets we complete the service with hairdressing. The Hospital veterinario Marina Baixa offers the service of 3D technology. We make copies of patient´s bones from the data obtained with computed tomography (CT),explains Jose Rial, veterinarian and head of the hospital . Once we get the copy of the bone we can make a proper pre-surgical plan and build
customized guide also of plastic material with our 3 D printer. The latest addition has been an device of airplasma for surgery with minimal bleeding. Next month will open a new area with a new operating room with the most advanced anesthesia and monitoring of the patient dedicated to minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy,
torascoscopy, arthroscopy,...) At the Marina Baixa veterinary hospital all kind of pets (cat, dogs and exotic pets) are treated 24 hours a day. 3d printed plastic bone for surgery planning. Hospital Veterinario Marina Biaxa Passeig de la mitja llegua, 17, 03580, Alfaz Del Pi 966 860 669
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
35
Show your love by donating food this Valentine’s February is the month of love, but rather than just treating that special someone, optical chain Specsavers Opticas are asking people to show their love for the most disadvantaged in their community by making a small food donation this month. They are collecting non-perishable food for the Spanish Federation of Food Banks in all 8 of their stores on the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and Mallorca throughout the month and hope residents will get behind the campaign. The Spanish Federation of Food Banks is a non-profit organisation which is fighting against hunger and waste and brings together 56 food banks throughout Spain.
Each day they give out 419,000 kilos of food to the very needy members of society and have seen a massive increase in demand in recent years. In order to meet that need, they require donations from individuals, organisations and companies and Specsavers Opticas has taken up the challenge to make a difference this February. From the 1st to the 28th of February, anyone can drop off their food at their local store during opening hours. At the end of the month it will be donated to Alicante Food Bank, for them to distribute in the community via partnerships with local charitable organisations. The Alicante Food Bank would particularly appreciate donations of oil, sugar, drinking chocolate and milk, although any donation is of course welcome. There are Specsavers Opticas stores in Javea, Calpe, Benidorm, Torrevieja and
Guardamar on the Costa Blanca. To find your nearest Specsavers Opticas store visit www.specsavers.es
36
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Day Out In Denia Dénia is located on the east coast of Spain, along the coastal stretch known as the Costa Blanca. Denia is very much a family resort and one of the most popular tourist destinations on the northern Costa Blanca. A quiet little town that was once the centre of the region’s raisin growing industry. Although tourism has taken over, raisins are still grown here and remain to be a local delicacy. The main avenue in Dénia is the Marques de Campo where you can sit and watch the world go by. In the Plaza de Constitucion you will find a wonderful 17th century church. The area around Dénia has been voted the third healthiest place to live by the World Health Organisation.
What to see in Dénia
Dénia is an old town with a long history. Right back to Roman times it was an important centre. As such there’s no wonder that there are remains of ancient civilizations everywhere. One of the most important monuments in Dénia is the castle. You can read all about Denia Castle and see a video here. The castle also houses a museum. It was built in the 11th century and has been remodelled several times over the years. You can find the castle at the top end of Denia, close to the town hall. Access is via a maze of narrow streets. The main seafront in Dénia is an attractive road with ample parking and facilities to stop and eat and drink. From the seafront,
small roads lead into the town. Behind the first line of buildings are a series of small patios where you will find some superb restaurants amid the little fishermens’ houses, all painted different colours. There are some quirky restaurants in this area that make a pleasant change from the seafront. The Marina Dénia is not only one of the most important ports along this coast of Spain but it also has a wonderful marina. The marina has been totally refurbished over recent years and now provides a stunning location to walk, sail and enjoy the facilities there. The waterside is surrounded by bars, cafes and restaurants with a sprinkling of shops and offices. To the side of the marina is a small bay beach. Calle Marques de Campos is the main shopping street. Here you will find most of the major banks as well as designer shops such as Mango.
Barrios Antiguos (Old quarter)
This is where you will find the town hall, churches,museums and lots of narrow streets. Every street is diffrerent and there are some quaint little shops. The Town Hall in Dénia is a fine example of a classical building, built around 1620. There is a unique stone inscription on the wall dedicated to a Roman Dénia of the 2nd century, Titus Junius. You can find the town hall at the foot of the castle in the historic part of town. The town hall have several staff that speak English and
are very helpful. Take a ticket from the information desk when you arrive then wait for your number to be called. Recent works on the square in front of the town hall have revealed Roman foundations. Beneath the castle is the old Air Raid Tunnel which was built between 1937 and 1938 as a defense during the Spanish Civil War. It was constructed by the residents of Dénia and war refugees. (March 2011 - the area is being refurbished). Shopping and markets in Dénia Monday is the main market day in Dénia (8am-2pm). There is also an antiques market on Fridays (pictured right). Both are located in front of Jaume I Square. The fresh fish market is located in the port and has a daily auction at 5pm. The indoor market in the centre of town is open daily. There’s also a morning fruit and veg market outside.
Finding your way around Dénia The backdrop to Dénia is the Montgo mountain with its natural park (Parque Natural del Montgo) where you can take amazing walks. Behind the mountain you will find the little villages of Jesus Pobre and Pedreguer.
Dénia is divided into clear areas (Terminos). The old town centre is the Casco Urbano. To the left of Dénia is the Las Marinas area and to the right is Las Rotas. Some of the larger urbanizations in Dénia include La Sella (surrounding the golf course). Most of the street parking in Dénia is free, however, where spaces are marked with blue lines, you need to purchase a ticket from the machines and display in your windscreen. 127 minutes for 1€ is the maximum stay. One of the nicest avenues in Dénia is Marques de Campo. The trees on either side meet in the middle, offering a shade in the summer. There are some nice shops on this street as well as some fine cafes and restaurants. The N°11 Bar is particularly nice. The historic part of Dénia is best seen on foot as the streets are very narrow with limited parking. You will find several plazas in which to rest.
Clubs & Charities
Braving the weather for charity Grant a Wish
DESPITE the terrible weather, Oliva resident Natalie Adams completed her first half marathon in a very creditable time of two hours and seven minutes. Natalie ran alongside 230 other hardy souls in Oliva’s annual XI annual Mitja Marato on 4 February. Her goal was to raise money for MABS, the local cancer care charity close to Natalie’s heart. There was fundraising events both before and after the run in local bars Molinos and Vale Vale, with over €1,400 being raised – and still counting. Natalie wanted to offer special thanks to Ellie from MABS in Oliva who has supported her throughout, as well as Christie from Molinos and Stephen from Vale Vale for hosting the fundraising events.
B
U
T
I
Q
U
E
Fresh Flowers
Printed Clothing
Books / Novels
Celebration Cakes
Children's Books
Greetings Cards
Gala for women
By Simon Russell
MEMBA, an association for female entrepreneurs in the Marina Baixa area, will be holding a gala on 24 February at the Casa la Cultura in Alpaz del Pi. The event will pay tribute to businesswomen across the region in both a professional and socially responsible capacity. This is the third such event and it is hoped to at least match the success of the previous two this time around. Tickets for the gala will cost €15 and you can call 966 897 070
O
for further details or to purchase tickets, which are now on sale.
Reconditioned Clothing Photocopying Printing Javea Old Town Market Square 96 500 8816 Come and enjoy fund raising!
U3A Vall Del Pop: Getting Out and Getting Fitter
meet on a Thursday. The walks are generally located in and around the Jalon valley, with starting venues never more than 45 minutes from Jalon, and explore different areas of countryside around the villages of the region. The walks are not too strenuous, and although there may be some hills to climb ice axes and crampons are not required, although good walking boots or shoes are essential, walking U3A Vall del Pop What’s On Programme sticks [specialist February 20th – Egyptology Group Meeting “Seeing through the eye of Horus” at Jalon Town Hall or homemade] are March 2nd – Annual General Meeting at the Polivalent, Murla recommended and March 13th - Egyptology Group Meeting “Mountain of the Pharaohs” at Jalon Town Hall weather proof clothing March 20th – Sangreal Tour, Aragon is essential. The full April 6th – General Meeting with speaker Daniel Herrenz on “Spanish Taxes” day walkers carry April 10th - Egyptology Group Meeting “Houses of Millions of Years” at Jalon Town Hall their own lunch and May 4th – General Meeting with speaker Lorraine Bellami on “Working with BOAC/BA” drinks, and usually May 15th - Egyptology Group Meeting “The Body in Tomb 55” at Jalon Town Hall finish-up at a local bar Visit our website, http://u3avalldelpop.com, for further details of what’s going on and of our groups. or restaurant, and the Members – did you promise yourself at New Year that you would get out and about more, to enjoy the glorious scenery we have in this part of Spain, or did you even promise to get yourself fitter, no matter how. Well why not join one of the U3A Vall del Pop walking groups, we have two groups both meeting each week, the morning walkers meet on a Wednesday and the full day [4 to 5 hours] walkers
morning walkers finish at a café or coffee bar, but it is still recommended that you carry some water. So why not give it a try and enjoy the fresh air, spectacular scenery, meet new friends and you may even get fitter! Starting venues are announced by email a few days in advance of the walk, so check our website : http://u3avalldelpop.com and contact the group leaders to find out what is planned and to register your wish to take part – who knows you may even enjoy it!!! That is what the U3A is all about, enjoyment, and in no group more so than the U3A Vall del Pop whose members meet on the first Thursday of each month at the Polivalent in Murla.
BREXIT UPDATES
Spain seen as safe haven by many A survey by a leading accountancy firm has found that 8% of business executives would strongly consider relocating their operations to Spain after Brexit - but only if they feel the situation in the UK would harm their business. 54% saw Germany as the best option followed by the Netherlands with Spain, Italy and France all trailing behind. Significantly, the survey also found that 14% of respondents were planning to relocate should the UK leave the European single market; something British PM Theresa May has indicated is a distinct likelihood. Madrid would be the favoured choice for those moving to Spain followed by Barcelona with, unsurprisingly, Berlin being the top choice across the continent.
Roaming charges likely to return for Brits
AFTER years of campaigning against the practice by the European Union, mobile phone roaming charges are set to be phased out within the EU from June this year. However a leaked report has indicated that when the UK leaves the EU, probably in 2019, then the charges return as things stand. This will have
a bigger impact on tourists than expatriates with figures showing that the average increase in their phone bills on holiday due to roaming charges is £61. The report states that the UK is currently part of the consortium agreeing to the changes – but no provisions have been made for non EU members and there is none in the pipeline.
‘Brexit transitional deal will lock UK into EU court’
Britain will remain under the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice for years to come if it seeks a transition deal to secure its withdrawal from the European Union (EU), a top official said. Chief negotiator for the European parliament Guy Verhofstadt said on Friday that European negotiators were primed to push back against British Prime Minister Theresa May’s promises to remove the UK from the writ of European judges as soon as the country leaves the EU in 2019, the Guardian reported. Verhofstadt, who is representing the parliament in the article 50 -formal process of exiting the EU -- negotiations, said he expected a transition agreement to be put together following the settling of Britain’s debts and before withdrawal in 2019.
But asked whether the UK would remain under the European court of justice after 2019, Verhofstadt, who is also a former Belgian Prime Minister said: “The starting point from the European side will be yes”. The Downing Street made clear last month that it believed the UK would leave the jurisdiction of the court as soon as the Britain exited the EU. With just weeks to go before May is expected to formally announce Britain’s intention to leave the EU by triggering article 50, Verhofstadt also dashed the UK government’s hopes that it will be able to conduct negotiations in tandem about withdrawal and a future trade agreement with the EU. The EU is assuming that May will deliver a letter to the European council on 9 March, formally
triggering article 50. “Then we come out in mid-March with the opinion of the parliament,” Verhofstadt said.
Leaders of the other 27 EU member states plan to meet on April 8-9 to finalise their negotiating position.
Roller coaster day for the pound
On February 7, Sterling slumped sharply before recovering in later trading. The volatility in the pound is not surprising as we move closer to the deadline set for triggering article 50. It seems the pound crashed through on sell orders on the downside especially versus the USD and JPY. The fight back came after key support levels kicked in and comments from the MPC hawk suggested that UK interest rates could move higher sooner than expected.
Article 50 takes the focus Today, focus will once again be on parliament as the article 50 bill heads to its third and final reading in the House of Commons.
Last night, the bill survived an attempted amendment to force the government to consult parliament on the deal struck with the EU before being finalised, after it was promised that a meaningful vote would occur. If passed, the bill will authorise the government to formally begin Brexit negotiations and the formal process of leaving the EU.
Attentions remains on Trump’s administration Today is very quiet in terms of data, and attention will mainly be on any feedback from the Trump’s administration and developments in the House of Commons. It is still unclear what Trump’s fiscal plans will be and once known, it will shed
more light on USD momentum and monetary policy direction. US data has also taken the wind out of the sails of a March rate hike with disappointing wage inflation on Friday.
Spotlight on Europe Europe is also coming under some spotlight on the political scene, with the François Fillon scandal which will increase the focus on whether Marine Le Pen has gained in the polls. In addition, Greece has gained some new attention, following a bleak assessment by the IMF confirming that the country needs further debt relief and the surplus targets are unrealistic. The negative feedback from Europe has helped the EUR to shed value against the USD and GBP.
Carretera Moraira A Teulada, 5, Edificio Benidorm 7 (behind the taxi rank on high street), 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain Call Now +34 966 26 50 72
A piece of Spain in London
REPRESENTATIVES of tiling firms from the Valencian Community are amongst the Spanish firms exhibiting at an important trade fair in London. The Surface Design Show is to showcase floor and ceiling tiling and other coverings to the international and UK market, with the UK being the
third biggest market for the Spanish tiling industry. British sales for Spanish tiles hit €158 million in the last quarter, a significant part of their overall market and a year on year sales increase. Most British purchasers, both public and private, are from London or the South East
of England so the fair is ideally located for this audience.
Valencian architect under fire
SPANISH architect Santiago Calatrava, designer of the City of Arts and Sciences in his native Valencia among many other projects, is designing a major project in London, his first in the UK. However his design for the €1 billion new station building in Greenwich has received criticism from quarters of the British press. The design was unveiled by London Mayor Sadiq Khan and has been billed as the new gateway to Greenwich containing a travel hub, offices, bars, shops, apartments and hotels. The developer said that the space age glass structure will be “the most beautiful station the UK has ever seen.”
However the Guardian newspaper described the design as a “tired, clichéd collage” and wrote that the main atrium “could have been lifted straight from a 1980’s suburban shopping plaza”. They also criticised the cost involved in hiring Calatrava - and pointed out his habit of going over budget and over schedule with his projects. They cited the Arts and Sciences project as an example, which ended up costing three times the original budget and took almost twenty years to complete. Calatrava himself said he considered the London project to be a synthesis of what he has done over his entire career.
London FTSE 1000 14/02/2017 Name
Current price Day change
III
3i Group Plc
679.75
-4
ADM
Admiral Group
1,839.00
-7
-0.38%
AAL
Anglo American
1,197.75
-10
-0.83%
ANTO
Antofagasta Holdings
676.75
AHT
Ashtead Group plc
1,537.50
-12
ABF
Associated British Foods plc
2,568.50
28
1.10%
AZN
AstraZeneca plc
4,073.75
-7.5
-0.18% -0.85%
-0.59%
-28.5 -4.04% -0.77%
AV.
Aviva plc
441.9
-3.8
BAB
Babcock International Group
951.5
1
0.11%
BA.
BAE Systems plc
592.25
-5.5
-0.92% -3.38%
BARC
Barclays plc
211.65
-7.4
BDEV
Barratt Developments plc
475.95
8.6
1.84%
BLT
BHP Billiton plc
1,302.75
-36
-2.69%
BP.
BP Plc
465.73
-4.3
-0.91%
BATS
British American Tobacco plc
4,337.25
28
0.65%
BLND
British Land Co plc
592.25
13
2.24%
BT.A
BT Group plc
357.75
4.55
1.29%
BNZL
Bunzl plc
2,035.00
3
0.15%
BRBY
Burberry Group plc
1,415.00
5
0.35%
CPI
Capita plc
541.25
6
1.12%
CCL
Carnival plc
3,870.50
-53
-1.35% -0.14%
CNA
Centrica plc
209
-0.3
CCH
Coca-Cola HBC AG
1,632.00
0
0.00%
CPG
Compass Group plc
1,326.50
-2
-0.15%
CRH
CRH plc
2,581.50
-43
-1.64%
CRDA
Croda International plc
3,190.00
31
0.98%
DCC
DCC plc
5,947.50
25
0.42%
DGE
Diageo plc
1,956.50
-10
-0.51%
DLG
Direct Line Insurance Group plc
346.5
3
0.87%
DC.
Dixons Carphone plc
344.55
0.2
0.06%
EZJ
easyJet plc
976
EXPN
Experian Plc
1,506.50
6
FRES
Fresnillo
1,198.00
16
1.35%
GKN
GKN plc
304.2
-1.9
-0.62%
-20.5 -2.06% 0.40%
GSK
GlaxoSmithKline plc
1,468.25
-0.5
-0.03%
GLEN
Glencore plc
277.15
-6.3
-2.22%
HMSO
Hammerson
537.75
5
0.94%
HL.
Hargreaves Lansdown plc
1,181.50
6
0.51%
HIK
Hikma Pharmaceuticals
1,665.50
-7
-0.42%
HSBA
HSBC Holdings plc
626.9
-3.3
-0.52%
IMB
Imperial Brands Group
3,408.50
63.5
1.90%
INF
Informa plc
642.75
5.5
0.86%
IHG
InterContinental Hotels Group plc
3,218.50
-40
-1.23%
IAG
International Consolidated Airlines Group SA
418
-4.5
-1.07% -0.86%
ITRK
Intertek Group plc
3,228.00
-28
INTU
Intu Properties plc
263.75
0.7
0.27%
ITV
ITV plc
168.05
-2
-1.18%
JMAT
Johnson Matthey Plc
3,089.00
-14
-0.45%
KGF
Kingfisher
350.1
2.1
0.60%
LAND
Land Securities Group plc
961.75
23
2.45%
LGEN
Legal & General Group plc
242.1
-0.2
-0.08%
LLOY
Lloyds Banking Group plc
57.26
-0.33 -0.57%
LSE
London Stock Exchange Group plc
2,684.00
1
MKS
Marks & Spencer Group plc
326.05
0.1
0.03%
MDC
Mediclinic International plc
687
-3.5
-0.51%
0.04%
MERL
Merlin Entertainments plc
434.4
0.8
0.18%
MCRO
Micro Focus International plc
2,053.50
-5
-0.24%
MNDI
Mondi Plc
1,580.50
-1
-0.06%
MRW
Morrison (Wm) Supermarkets
217.55
3.5
1.63%
NG.
National Grid
909.2
10.5
1.17%
NXT
Next plc
4,861.00
-14
-0.29%
OML
Old Mutual Plc
184.15
-1.4
-0.75% -0.24%
PPB
Paddy Power Betfair plc
8,345.00
-20
PSON
Pearson plc
784.75
2.5
0.32%
PSN
Persimmon plc
1,702.50
-2
-0.12%
POLY
Polymetal International plc
752
9
1.21%
PFG
Provident Financial plc
2,846.00
-31
-1.08%
PRU
Prudential plc
1,559.25
RRS
Randgold Resources
5,830.00
125
2.19%
RB.
Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc
6,596.50
-32
-0.48%
REL
RELX plc
1,337.50
-10
-0.74%
RIO
Rio Tinto plc
2,996.00
-31.5 -1.04%
-18.5 -1.17%
RR.
Rolls Royce Holdings Plc
656.25
-25.5 -3.74%
RBS
Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc
193.55
-6.1
RDSA
Royal Dutch Shell Plc A Shares
2,045.75
-27
-1.30%
RDSB
Royal Dutch Shell Plc B Shares
2,149.75
-29
-1.33%
-3.05%
RMG
Royal Mail PLC
464.2
9
1.98%
RSA
RSA Insurance Group
529.75
-3
-0.56% -0.69%
SGE
Sage Group plc
643.75
-4.5
SBRY
Sainsbury (J) plc
229.7
1.1
0.48%
SDR
Schroders plc
2,780.00
-6
-0.22% 1.04%
SVT
Severn Trent Plc
2,134.00
22
SHP
Shire plc
4,606.00
50
1.10%
SKY
Sky plc
771.75
-1.5
-0.19%
SN.
Smith & Nephew plc
1,114.50
8
0.72%
SMIN
Smiths Group Plc
1,421.50
-8
-0.56%
SSE
SSE plc
1,481.50
27
1.86%
STJ
St James’s Place Plc
936.5
-6.5
-0.69%
STAN
Standard Chartered plc
648.5
-1.4
-0.22%
SL.
Standard Life plc
343.9
-1.2
-0.35%
TW.
Taylor Wimpey plc
151.15
1.5
1.00%
TSCO
Tesco plc
206.53
1.15
0.56%
TPK
Travis Perkins plc
1,366.00
13
0.96%
TUI
TUI AG
1,038.50
-19
-1.80%
ULVR
Unilever plc
3,110.25
13.5
0.44%
UU.
United Utilities Group Plc
883.25
10.5
1.20%
VOD
Vodafone Group plc
191.63
0.6
0.31% -0.18%
WTB
Whitbread plc
3,409.00
-6
WOS
Wolseley plc
4,679.50
14
0.30%
WPG
Worldpay Group plc
260.1
-2.9
-1.10%
WPP
WPP plc
1,663.50
4
0.24%
Peugeot 3008 2017 Given the popularity of the Range Rover Evoque, it’s perhaps understandable that Land Rover has looked to capitalise on its success by adding a stylish softtop to the range. However, while the Evoque Convertible is striking to look at and genuinely good to drive, its novelty value is outweighed by some serious shortcomings. The Range Rover Evoque Convertible is based on the threedoor coupe, but commands a considerable premium to buy new, with prices starting close to £50,000. Everyday practicality is limited, compared to the
hard-top Evoque, with poor levels of head and legroom in the back. The boot is also narrow and small, which means it will struggle to accommodate anything larger than a flight bag. The engine range consists of one petrol and one diesel, with the latter providing the best balance between performance and economy. Both of the four-cylinder engines drive well, with lots of torque and low levels of noise reaching the cabin. Unfortunately the nine-speed automatic gearbox is the weak link in the package, with its doddering nature resulting in forced gear changes
that unsettle the rhythm of the engine. The 2.0-litre TD4 boasts 180PS and will cover 0-62mph in less than 10 seconds, while the advertised 49.6mpg means trips between fuel stops should be relatively long. The 2.0 Si4 petrol with 240PS improves performance further and covers 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds – but isn’t very efficient, with a claimed 32.8mpg. The Convertible weighs over 400kg more than the coupe, but carries the extra weight rather well, with similar handling traits to its metal-topped twin, with nicely weighting steering and excellent body control. The additional weight is evident under heavy braking, with the front pitching forward a little more than the standard Evoque, but generally the Evoque Convertible is a comfortable cruiser.
Ride quality is impressive, with pot holes and rutted B roads ironed out by the supple suspension, but things quickly get blustery in the cabin once you drop the roof. However, at lower speeds, on a warm day, the Evoque Convertible is a nice place to gently while away the miles around town. Operating the roof is straightforward, with the electric mechanism taking around around 20 seconds to lower the fabric roof, up to speeds of 30mph. Not everyone will be taken by the Evoque Convertible’s design. But the soft-top Range Rover certainly fulfils its niche as being the only premium soft-top SUV you can buy. That said, the Evoque Convertible doesn’t really excel in any particular area, which means it feels very short on quality against its cabrio rivals.
Five killed in horror crash
FIVE youngsters aged between 19 and 21 were killed in a horrific car accident on 4 February near Cartagena in the Murcia region. The crash occurred at around midnight between the towns of La Palma and Torre Pacheco said the authorities. E m e r g e n c y services arrived at the scene to find five people already dead and three others seriously injured in the two vehicles involved. The injured have all been transferred to Santa Lucia Hospital in Cartagena while Red Cross psychological councillors have been on hand for the families of the victims.
This Week in automotive history Mercedes-Benz built a brand new car for the 1952 Sportscar racing season, dubbed the W194, also known as the 300 SL. The 3 litre straight-6 was vicious on the track, taking home the gold at 24 Hours of Le Mans, Bern-Bremgarten, Carrera Panamericana and others. Only 10 of the cars were built for racing but at the suggestion of DaimlerBenz’ official US importer Max Hoffman, Mercedes introduced a production version of the car which were first sold on this day in 1954. The 300 SL borrowed the same engine as its racing predecessor but was introduced with direct fuel injection, opposed to the triple twobarrel Solex carburetors of the racer. The 300 SL was available as a Gullwing coupe or a
roadster, of which 1400 and 1858 were built, respectively, between 1954 and 1963. Schloss Dyck Classic Days 2013 - Mercedes Flügeltürer (“Wingdoors”) by Jorbasa Fotografie CC 2.0 The steering wheel tilted for easier driver access. “Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing(1955)”
42
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
WE ARE OPEN SATURDAYS 3,495€
SEAT LEON, AUTOMATIC 5,995€
BMW Z3 8,995€
MERCEDES CLK 200 KOMPRESSOR, AMG PACK, 2004, 1.8, MANY EXTRAS 5,995€
NISSAN NOTE, 2006, 1.6 3,995€
ROVER 75, DIESEL
11,495€
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF PLUS DSG, AUTOMATIC, DIESEL 5,995€
SUZUKI ALTO GLX, 2011
4,995€
CITROEN C4, 2006, 1.6, 51,000 KM 5,995€
CITROEN C4 COUPE LX, 1.4 9,995€
RENAULT CLIO DCI, 5 DOOR, 2013, DIESEL
WE BUY CARS FOR CASH! 9,995€
VOLKSWAGEN POLO TSI, DEC. 2013, 1.2, 36,000 KM 9,495€
MERCEDES A160 CDI, DIESEL, 2008 105,000€
BURSTNER GRAND PANORAMA I920, LUXURY CAMPERVAN 3,995€
CHEVROLET MATIZ SE 5,995€
PEUGEOT 207 SW ESTATE, 2008, 1.4
6,995€
HONDA CR-V, 4X4, 2.0 3,695€
CHEVROLET KALOS 3,495€
KIA PICANTO LX, 2004, 1.1 10,195€
RENAULT CLIO, 2013, DIESEL, DEDUCTIBLE IVA 7,995€
FORD FOCUS, 2010, 1.6
Carretera Nacional N-332 Partida Bonaire No. 60 Opposite Benissa Motorway Entrance
Tel: (+34) 965 733 311 www.automartbenissa.com info@automartbenissa.com
4,995€
OPEL ASTRA, 2005, 1.4, 67,000 KM 7,250€
CITROEN C1, AUTOMATIC, 2011, 25,000 KM 5,295€
PEUGEOT 207, 1.4 4,995€
TATA GRAND SAFARI, 4X4, DIESEL 5,750€
SMART FORTWO, AUTOMATIC, 1.0
4,695€
CITROEN C4 VTR PLUS 4,195€
FORD FIESTA GHIA TDCI, DIESEL 4,995€
RENAULT CLIO 4,995€
RENAULT MODUS 6,295€
SMART FORTWO, AUTOMATIC, 2008, 1.0
MENTION THIS ADVERT FOR A FREE TANK OF FUEL WHEN YOU BUY ANY CAR! 6,395€
6,995€
SUZUKI SWIFT, 1.3 4,995€
KIA RIO 4,995€
CHEVROLET AVEO SEDAN LT 4,995€
FORD FOCUS 6,750€
SMART FORTWO, AUTOMATIC, 2010, 1.0
RENAULT GRAND MODUS, 2008, 1.2 5,295€
VOLKSWAGEN POLO, 1.4 4,995€
FIAT GRANDE PUNTO, DIESEL 4,995€
SMART FORTWO, AUTOMATIC 5,995€
OPEL ASTRA, AUTOMATIC, 2005, 1.8
44
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
Entertainment
45
Sponsored By
Mickeys’ Little Peice Well as the new kid on the block here in the Costa Blanca I hope you might just help me out a bit, I don’t know my way around the area or much about life in this part of Spain , although actually I am half Spanish, believe it or not. My mother was Spanish and my father Irish so being a Londoner it’s a bit of a mix. I’m so looking forward to getting to know you all as I’ve heard so much about expat life out here and am really excited to be taking the time to experience this for myself. Week by week I will be able to tell you where I’ve been what I’ve been up to and what I’ve seen. I hope you will follow my Twitter and Facebook /mickeypearceinspain I am sure it will be a thrill to be in Benidorm, a place that has become a true favourite for holiday Brits. I have seen how popular this destination has become and especially with the hit TV series which is now about to broadcast its ninth series after an amazing ten years already under the belt since series one. Especially now with my old mucker (good friend)
and co-actor on Only Fools Mr John Challis (Boycie) taking his role alongside super star Joan Collins after making his entrance to the series last year. I can’t wait to watch it and who knows I might even go along to the auditions myself, on the 24th of this month from 10am till 2pm at Hotel Melia, Benidorm, make sure you have your NIE and social security number with you ok just to avoid any disappointment, who knows I may see you there! My life with Only Fools and Horses was special and as you may well imagine loads of fun and as far as the acting was concerned we all loved the characters and had so much respect for John Sullivan OBE The (writer) of course with the many friends I have from the many years working together. Unfortunately we only seem to meet now when there has been bad news and af-
Come and enjoy one of the top shows in Europe. A magnificent spectacle of colour with fabulous dancers and glamorous costumes. Featuring a variety of original, top performers from around the world,, the show has dancing, comedy and even magic will surely making it an evening to remember. Complete your pleasure by wining and dining, with a choice of delicious fresh fish and the
finest meat & vegetables. Vegetarian menus are also supplied on request. Doors Open at 8.30 p.m and dining commences at 9.00 p.m and the show starts at 10.00pm. Opening nights are Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays throughout the year. Also open Wednesdays during the summer. Please note that, for your comfort the Benidorm Palace is completely non-smoking.
ter losing so many of our loved ones over the years I can only count my lucky stars I’m here to tell you the tales of my life and from behind the scenes of what is still recognised as the best ever award winning British TV comedy series of all time. Some of the most hilarious moments and of course the best years of my life working with the cast of huge talent are with me to share with you readers. So what about now? What am I doing here you may be asking yourself? Well the first thing I can tell you is that you can read more of these articles from me on a regular basis right here in
every edition of the Buzz Newspaper, there is much more in store for you all, It’s exciting for me as well and I can’t wait to see the White Coast of Spain travel the country and meet some of you lovely people. I will be searching out my Spanish roots and will keep you updated how things go. I would love to meet you so keep reading to see when and where I will be out and about in the Costa Blanca and beyond...... See ya soon amigos. Pat Murray.
It’s Showtime! - Benidorm Palace
Examples of meals available: Show + Menu Gran Palace Plus: Adult price €62, Children under 13 €25 with a special children’s menu. Show + Gran Palace Menu: Adult price €52, Children under 13 €25 with a special children’s menu. Benidorm Palace Show: Adult price €32 - Children under 10 - FREE.
46
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Entertainment
Sponsored By
Javea Players - You’ve Got To Laugh Adults, one a retired solicitor, at war on a British beach over who sits on which patch of sand. Really! You’ve just got to laugh. Not, of course, if you are one of the combatants, for you principals, traditions, pride and investment would then all be at stake and the battle would be deadly serious. If you would like to enjoy a very amusing report of this not unusual war by non other than Bob Larbey (The Good Life, A Fine Romance, As Time Goes By) book yourself a seat at the Javea Players Studio Theatre one evening between Monday March 27 and Saturday April 1. He calls his report ‘Sand Castles’ and you will find it a real hoot. On one side in this war are those able to invest in a beach hut on the other the hoi polloi beach people. Now, you may well wonder what is so special about a shed on the beach without a toilet, barely enough room to swing a cat and in which you are not allowed to spend the night to confer on its owner beach superiority. The short answer is its castle-like price
tag. In 2006 one sold at auction at West Bexington in Dorset for £216,000. Even renting one doesn’t come cheap, as much as £300 per week in Hove. You have to be one of the ‘haves’ to own a beach hut and such is the order of things on a British beach, the ‘haves’ look down their noses at the ‘have-nots’. To share a patch of sand with them is unthinkable and so they create the the falsehood that the beach in front of their huts is private property A dreadful woman, a Mrs Penfold, searching for her child’s kite, discovers from an unguarded moment on the part of the retired solicitor that only the huts are private property. So, anyone can sit on the sand in front of them and that is exactly what she and her friends, Ida and Mrs Newton do. They stage a sit-in right in front of the huts in protest of ,in the words of Mrs Penfold, being treated like rubbish. The war brought to you in Sand Castles is a joy to watch – from a seat in the stalls. Javea Players production, directed by
Roger Brown, plays their Studio Theatre from Monday March 27 to Saturday April 1. Curtain-up 8pm. Seats are priced at 10euros including a pre-show drink and a programme and can be reserved on the Players’ website, www. javeaplayers.com if you have any problems, ring Tony on 86 552
8551. And, should you want to make your evening really great, book yourself a pre-theatre dinner at the La Cocina restaurant, two courses 16 euros; three 19 euros both inclusive of a half-bottle of wine and served from 6 pm. Reservations 96 579 5140.
48
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
Local
49
Sport News
Alfas Fantasy Football League Report
After last weeks avalanche of goals it was all quiet in this weeks Alfaz Fantasy Football League with Defenders the top scorers. Most of the Premier League sharp shooters fired blanks at the Weekend. There was one F.A.Cup Replay and 9 Premier League games which gave the A.F.F.L. 23 goals,8 clean sheets,35 yellow cards and 1 red which was Hull’s Clucas fortunately none of our Fantasy Managers selected him. As we enter the last third of the Season it’s getting tight at the top of the A.F.F.L..Andrew’s team Big Tymers who have held on to the top spot for the last 6 weeks have now only got a single point lead over Wayne’s team Gunnawinitthis year.Chris’s Always Hoping stay in 3rd place while Dave’s Juke Box Mackems continue to close
the gap on the front runners.At the other end of the table Kevin’s El.Portet Elite have been cut adrift since week 8 and I can’t see any light at the end of the Tunnel for them. Julie’s team The Gers raced away at the top of our Mark Carter Ladies Section last week but this week they have been caught up by Joanna’s Hup Hannah City who are now only 2 points behind.Down at the foot of the table Angie’s Blues failed to score mainly because all of her team are Manchester City Players and they don’t play till Monday Night.Kim’s Ginger United have opened up a gap of 33 points over Amanda’s Bog’s Dollocks in their quest for our 20 euro voucher which is sponsored by Quick Save the only British Supermarket in Albir. Ant & Brad’s team Ant &Brad are still in pole position in our U.K.T.V.SPAIN
Junior League they currently have a 33 point advantage over Callum’s team F.C.Barcalona who have moved into 2nd place taking over from Leo’s 6 in a Row while at the other end of the table Anna’s Radji United are now 54 points behind Charlotte’s Arm Wavers United. There is no changes at the top our bottom of our Leonard Knowles Construction Golden Boot League. Dave Juke Box Mackems have moved 90 points ahead of Lee’s Walkden Town at the top while El.Portet Elite are still over the trap door at the bottom 27 points adrift of Radji United. We have 2 teams going into the hat for our Monthly Wyndham’s Wine Draw and they are Nick’s Black Cats who top scored with 49 points and our lowest scoring team Charlotte’s Arm Wavers United who finished up with a minus 2.
Manager of the Month for February is being kindly sponsored by Caspers in Albir who provide a really good English Menu at reasonable prices. With just a couple of weeks to go Kim’s Ginger United hold a 14 point advantage over Bryn’s When Skies are Grey. Higgin’s Hotshots & Tower F.C. are also in contention for this super meal for 2. Phil’s Flixton Sunshiners made it through to the last 16 of our Ex-Pats K.O.Cup
Competition when they beat Mark’s No Bad Losers by 24-15. This week the F.A.Cup ties take place and has I have mentioned before based on past History it’s important to keep Players in the Cup to score extra bonus points as the Competition progresses. At the moment our website is still work in progress as we are striving to get every thing up to date.
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Local
Sponsored
Sport News
By
Local golf course gains recognition THE Oliva Nova Beach and Golf Resort has become only the fourth golf resort in Spain to be awarded the prestigious Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) certificate. The GEO is awarded to courses on a number of criteria such as water usage, energy, supply chains and pollution controls as well as the quality of the course itself as a venue to play. Alejandro Nagy from
the GEO organisation said “When visiting the Oliva Nova facilities I found that there is a high level of involvement from the manager to the head green-keeper and all other staff. They have developed sustainable golf facilities and improved the course at the same time.” Oliva Nova was the first course designed by the late Seve Ballesteros and opened in 1995.
La Vila put on a Premiership performance Rugby is not a game for wimps. It is played with passion and a desire to win. La Vila in their home game with Les Abelles won 57-12. In weather more associated with a winter in Russia, who incidentally beat the British Army by 28-17 the day previous, both teams displayed this spirit in a pulsating game which was not as one sided as the score would suggest. Scoring a try in the first 30 seconds La Vila continued to dominate in the first half, although the visitors from time to time showed the form that has gained them second place to La Vila in the league. It was 31-5 at the interval. The second half saw La Vila playing into the teeth of the biting wind and sleet. Their passing was, in the conditions, terrific as was their scrummaging. In the end their points tally was well deserved and the brave but small crowd were treated to an entertaining match. La Vila try scorers : Javier Carrión (2) .Gonzalo Pérez (3) Marc Calatayud, Iván Agudo, Matías Jara, Gonzalo Pérez, Nacho Müller and Gerónimo Fernández. The players now have their
Premiership ambition within arms length. With just five matches to play before the play-offs their 20 point lead in their division seems unassailable. The top two teams in the other divisions who should be concerned in these matches are the university of Burgos and the French Liceo. The play-offs start in April and the next game for La Vila is against Murcia on February 19th. Kick off 12.30 at their VilaJoyosa ground.
Jukebox Football Predictions League
50
www.buzznews.es
February 14th
Buzz World Sport Joe Root Named England Test Captain
Will the responsibility of being England’s Test captain over-burden Joe Root or inspire the Yorkshire batsman to even greater heights? That was the question England fans were asking themselves after Root was appointed to succeed Alastair Cook as Test skipper on Monday. A particular concern regarding Root is that he is seen as something of a free spirit -- he gave a television interview in a comedy ‘old man’ mask while doing an impression of former England fast bowler Bob Willis following England’s 2015 Ashes series win -- and that these qualities might be crushed by the duties imposed upon a Test
skipper. Making a star player, a status Root has long had in the side, England captain did not result in happy spells in charge for the likes of Ian Botham, Andrew Flintoff or Kevin Pietersen. Former England off-spinner Graeme Swann said even making Root vice-captain to Cook meant the 26-year-old was no longer “the cheeky, dynamic joie de vivre-type player he was two or three years ago.” But former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie, who observed Root’s development during five years as Yorkshire coach, insisted those fears were groundless.
“I understand the point he’s trying to make,” Gillespie, who returned to Australia last year for family reasons, told the Guardian. “And no one wants Joe to
Guardiola - Aguero Future Uncertain
of Man City’s match against Bournemouth on Monday, live on Sky Sports, Guardiola said: “At the end of the season I don’t know. I know how difficult it is to find top goalscorers. “I would like him to remain, but I don’t know what is going to happen. Even in my career I didn’t know what would happen at the end of the season.” Aguero, who is contracted to 2020, has scored 154 goals for City since joining the club in 2011. Guardiola has repeatedly said Aguero has earned the right to leave the club at a time of his own choosing.
When asked why Aguero might feel unsure of his future, Guardiola said: “I don’t think he feels that way. “Sergio knows the intention of his manager and the club. I don’t want to sell him, I want him to stay here for a long time until he decides. “The reason he’s not played the last two games is because Leroy [Sane], Gabriel and Rash [Raheem Sterling] have played amazing. That’s the only reason why. He remains a top player and an important one for us to achieve our goals. I don’t have doubts about that.”
lose his swagger or that inherent cheekiness but this is a guy who is maturing all the time. He’s played 53 Tests, he’s 26 years old and he is ready to go,” added Gillespie.
Luke Shaw
Must Be Patient Jose Mourinho says Luke Shaw must be patient as he attempts to reclaim a starting place at Manchester United. The England left back has fallen out of favour with Mourinho, with the United boss questioning his mental toughness after he withdrew himself from selection for a 3-1 victory at Swansea in November. Prior to that, Shaw had started United’s previous Premier League game against Burnley, as well as the first five games of the campaign, but he has not played a minute in the league since. Daley Blind was picked to start at left back for United’s 2-0 win over Watford on Saturday, while Matteo Darmian was selected to provide defensive cover on the bench ahead of Shaw.
Marcos Rojo has also been picked at left back ahead of Shaw in recent months and Mourinho says the 21-year-old will have to continue to bide his time behind the scenes - at least for now. ”He has to work and wait,” Mourinho said. “Against Watford I wanted one defender on the bench and the defender is someone who can play in more than one position. “(Matteo) Darmian can play left-back, rightback and an emergency central defender for us so my choice was Darmian.” Shaw’s situation bears similarities to those of Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Anthony Martial, who have both had to battle their way into Mourinho’s good graces after difficult periods this season.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Pep Guardiola has admitted he is uncertain if striker Sergio Aguero will still be at Manchester City after this season. Speculation over the future of Aguero, despite the prolific Argentine’s 18 goals this season, has recurred throughout Guardiola’s first season in charge at the Etihad Stadium. Questions have again been asked in the past fortnight, with the 28-year-old having to make do with a place on the bench while new signing Gabriel Jesus has taken the plaudits. Asked if he feared the striker might leave in the summer ahead
51
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
CODE CRACKER
QUICK CROSSWORD
WORD WHEEL 9 LETTER WORD Bystander
52
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Sports Bar Benidorm Dean from Castleford welcomes you to the Britannia
Showing Rugby Super League Live Games + All Other Sports February 2017 Super League Fixtures Thursday 9th February - St Helens 20:00 Leeds Rhinos Friday 10th February - Castleford Tigers 20:00 Leigh Centurions Saturday 11th February - Catalans Dragons 17:00 Warrington Wolves Thursday 16th February - HuddersďŹ eld Giants 20:00 Salford Red Devils Friday 17th February - Leigh Centurions 20:00 Leeds Rhinos Thursday 23rd February - Hull FC 20:00 Catalans Dragons Friday 24th February - Wigan Warriors 20:00 Widnes Vikings
Watch All Live Boxing Events Here
Haye v Bellew - 4 March Joshua v Klitschko - 29 April
www.buzznews.es
Buzz World Sport
February 14th
Sponsored
53
By
Champions Wigan kick off 2017 season with victory Wigan Warriors made a comfortable start to their title defence with a 26-16 victory over Salford Red Devils in the opening round of the 2017 Betfred Super League at the AJ Bell Stadium. Centre Oliver Gildart scored two first-half tries as the champions warmed up nicely for next Sunday’s World Club Challenge clash with Cronulla. Salford, who survived in Super League by the skin of their teeth last year, were out of the game by half-time, when they trailed 260, but rallied in the second half to create some optimism for the new campaign. Kris Brinning, Junior Sa’u and Michael Dobson touched down for the hosts, but Joe Burgess, George Williams and Thomas Leuluai ensured a comfortable win for the Warriors. There was further misery for Salford as they lost Sa’u and Robert
Lui to head injuries, although the latter was able to return following a concussion assessment. h t t p s : / / t w i t t e r . com/WiganWarriorsRL/ status/830434571887976448 Shane Wane was happy with the win, but admits his side needs to be better against Cronulla next week. “It was a good win but we’ve lots to work on,” he said. “We’ll review it and get down to some hard work for next week. “It was hard to concentrate on this game when we’ve got the World Club Challenge next week. That means a lot to our town and I’ll be getting some players in from 30 years ago (Wane’s Wigan team-mates from the 1987 World Club Challenge victory over Manly) to talk to them. “We will need to be a lot better and will be.” Opposite number Ian Watson added: “We’ve got to be better than
that. The first half was poor, we bombed a few opportunities and that’s when we need to dig in and grind it out. “We’ve got to perform like we did
Luke Gale scored 24 points as Castleford Tigers condemned Leigh Centurions to a 44-16 defeat in their
first Super League game for 12 years. The England international scored two tries and kicked eight goals to
ensure the Tigers hit the ground running at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle. The Centurions were out of the game by half-time as the stylish hosts opened up a 26-0 lead following a brace of tries from Greg Minikin and further scores from Gale, who also booted a penalty, and Jesse SeneLefao. Junior Moors and Gale went over in the second half, either side of former Castleford player Ryan Hampshire getting Leigh on the board, before new winger Greg Eden marked his debut with a try. Leigh staged a mini revival late on as Matty Dawson and Danny Tickle crossed, the latter for the 100th time in his career. Leigh staged a mini revival late on as Matty Dawson and Danny Tickle
in the second half for 80 minutes. It will be a good opportunity against Huddersfield next Thursday to see if we have learned our lessons from today.”
Tigers maul Super League new-comers Leigh crossed, the latter for the 100th time in his career. Leigh head coach Neil Jukes said: “I thought the first 20 minutes were pretty good. We went toe to toe and stayed in it. “But our kicking game let us down on too many occasions and, when they made their changes, they went up a new level. Grant Millington came on and started challenging us a bit more. We probably didn’t get that same impact. “Fair play to Cas, they’re a really good side. They talked the talk for the last few months and walked the walk (on Friday night). We’ve got to get better in certain areas and we’ve got seven days to do it because we have a big game against Leeds next week. We’ll make sure we’re a lot better.”
54
February 14th
www.buzznews.es
Buzz World Sport
McLaren set for orange change? Change is in the air at McLaren - and the team have dropped another hint their 2017 car will be painted orange. Social media has been abuzz throughout the winter that McLaren, still a recognised superpower of F1 despite a near decadelong title drought, are set to reintroduce the orange livery the team used during their formative years. The speculation has been sparked by a series of tantalising, orange-themed tweets from the team, with McLaren announcing the date of their car launch under a tag
line of ‘Change your game’ with an orange streak running through the message. And in an interview for the team’s own website, racing director Eric Boullier said: “A Formula 1 car itself never stays the same from one race to the next. Across the businesses, in fact, we’re triggering other changes - and we’ve got some exciting changes planned for our new car, the MCL32, but we want those to be kept secret until we show it to the world on February 24th!” The launch will be streamed live on the team’s YouTube page as well as Sky Sports F1’s website and Digital
apps. Meanwhile, Boullier has explained the staff shake-up within McLaren’s racing crew ahead of the departure of team manager David Redding to Williams after nearly two decades at Woking. Chief mechanic Paul James will replace Redding when he leaves for Williams in the summer while Andrea Stella will assume responsibility for the team’s dealings with the FIA. James, in turn, will be
succeeded as chief mechanic by Kari Lammenranta with his former role as Fernan
McLaren last used an orange livery in testing over ten years ago
Ibrahimovic says ‘nothing’ finalised on Man Utd future
latan Ibrahimovic says “nothing is done” with regards to his Manchester United future, but claims he has fulfilled the option needed to extend his contract. The 35-year-old arrived in the summer on a oneyear deal with the option of another season. On Friday, United boss Jose Mourinho said he was convinced Ibrahimovic would still be at Old Trafford when 2017/18 got under way, but the 20goal striker is giving little away just yet. Asked if he has triggered the extension clause with goals and appearances, the veteran striker said: “Something
like that. I have to score 100 goals. “The option is already fulfilled. But there’s nothing done yet. “ When asked whether it was case of having to wait and see, Ibrahimovic said: “From my side. We’ll wait and see. Let’s see what happens.” As well as contributing a strong goal tally, Ibrahimovic has also had a positive influence on the United squad, with Anthony Martial appearing to be benefiting from the striker’s knowledge a n d experience. Having endured a difficult season and found himself watching from the sidelines recently, the
21-year-old marked his return to the starting line-up by setting up one and scoring the other as Watford were beaten 2-0 on Saturday. ”He’s not going around with his head down,” Ibrahimovic said of Martial. “He’s positive, training hard and has a lot of energy. Obviously he wants to play. “It’s not like we go around to everybody and talk. It’s about the moment, when the situation is there. When we eat breakfast he sits beside me and we talk. Everybody talks to everybody. “It’s not like you go to one and try to cheer him up. It’s a good atmosphere, the guys are very professional. Positive vibes.”
Zhakiyanov wins WBA title
Kazakhstan’s Zhanat Zhakiyanov survived two first-round knockdowns to upset Rau’shee Warren by split decision on Friday and claim the WBA bantamweight title. On the same card in Ohio, unbeaten Robert Easter Jr retained his IBF lightweight title with a unanimous decision over Puerto Rico’s Luis Cruz. Warren, making his first defence of the title he claimed with a majority decision win over Juan Carlos Payano, looked as though he was heading for a short night when he put the challenger down twice in the first three minutes. H o w e v e r , Zhakiyanov, who is trained by Ricky Hatton, steadied and gradually seized control of the bout. He hurt Warren with a pair of right hands in
the third round and the champion was on the canvas moments later, although referee Gary Rosato ruled he had been pushed rather than knocked down. For the rest of the fight Zhakiyanov attacked relentlessly, his punishing body blows particularly effective against the American southpaw. While one judge saw it 115-111 for Warren, Zhakiyanov got the nod from the other two by scores of 116-110 and 115-111.
www.buzznews.es
Buzz World Sport
February 14th
55
Buzz Sport BURNLEY PUT THE BRAKES ON CHELSEA Is The tITLE RACE STILL OPEN?
Premier League leader Chelsea dropped points for only the third time since September after getting pegged back by dogged Burnley in a 1-1 draw at a snowy Turf Moor on Sunday. The result meant Chelsea extended its lead to 10 points over second-
placed Tottenham, which lost 2-0 at Liverpool on Saturday, but this was one of the most uncomfortable games that Antonio Conte’s side has experienced for some time. Pedro Rodriguez finished off a rapid counterattack to put Chelsea ahead in the
seventh minute, only for Burnley to equalize through Robbie Brady’s curling, 25-meter free-kick in the 24th. Burnley had the better chances to win the game, with its physical presence causing Chelsea problems throughout.