Madeira News Blog

Today’s photo – Many thanks to Pete … Good morning Madeira! The Carnival Time flower

I am sure many will be off to see the Carnival parade tonight in Funchal, and no doubt it will be as wonderful as ever, but don’t forget to send in your best photos. As a bonus for us over the west, there is a ‘Trapalhão’ parade starting tomorrow at 4.30 pm in the streets of Ribeira Brava. That means it’s a free-for-all, so come along and watch, or even better, get yer Carnival togs on and join in the fun … and don’t forget to spend some money, the town needs it. See you there!

The last one from Becky, many thanks … anymore anyone?

Captions please:

I’ll start, with… "Does anyone know where I can get some Toranja Poncha?"

(But you can keep yer hands off mine Bertie. Der)

Thanks a lot to Tobi for this link, that gives access to a brochure called ‘Active Tourism Madeira’. Use the ‘Fullscreen’ button to read the text. NATURE BROCHURE

This weekend’s football : Both our teams play tomorrow, Valentine’s Day of course. Nacional host Rio Ave at 4 pm, and Marítimo go to almost top-of-the-table Braga. The second match is on SportTV1 at 6 pm.

Many thanks to Elaine once again for yesterday’s top news stories :

DIÁRIO 12/02/2010

FRONT PAGE NEWS

Dumping controversy.  Seven months ago, Diário denounced the illegal mining at the site of Landeiros and dumping of the earth. The local population called in the Forestry Police and they have seized a truck and bulldozer. During the stormy weather on February 2nd, earth dumped by the side of the stream at Lajes caused it to overflow, resulting in a trail of destruction. The local population want Machico Council to build retaining walls around the stream to prevent any further damage. The Regional Director of Forestry and the Regional Director of the Environment do not know if the company is working legally or not. The council said they have authorized the work to repair storm damage in this area and the Forestry Police have no jurisdiction. The Regional Government has the responsibility for the construction of any stone walls.

MADEIRA

Santa Cruz Carnival Parade has less troupes due to lack of financial support. There will be three troupes and 200 participants, fewer than in previous years, due to a lack of financial support from the local Casa do Povo. Two of the three missing troupes are ‘Malta do Furor’ and ‘Amoreiras’. The director of Malta do Furor explained that they will participate at Gaula but the costumes and floats are expensive to make. Santa Cruz Council indirectly supports the Carnival Parade by financing the Caso do Povo who always organize it. The Caso do Povo have financial limitations but still provide six buses and a meal after the parade. There will still be 500 participants on Sunday.

Unions representing doctors cut relations with SESARAM. The two unions representing doctors in the region have suspended relationships with the Health Service Management Board. They complain that SESARAM promotes a climate of permanent tension and that professionals are despised and held in contempt. The unions are ignored and union delegates persecuted. They never hear a word of encouragement and the management is only interested in numbers, indices, percentages and productivity. Careers for Medical Professionals no longer exist in Madeira, so they cannot progress, and their careers are not recognized on the Continent. One union is taking their concerns to Alberto Jardim and are waiting to hear what the Secretary for Social Affairs has to say about the tense climate that exists.

Woman threatening to camp outside the Town Hall in Funchal. A 42 year old woman is threatening to pitch a tent outside the front door of the City Hall in Funchal until the council find her a home. She has been sleeping at the Temporary Shelter for the Homeless during the last month and the length of permanent stay is a maximum of 15 days, which ends today. The woman has had talks with several people from the council with no result. She receives 330 Euros from Social Security which she says is not enough to pay for accommodation. Unemployed, divorced for five years with two children; one son is married and lives in his own house and the other is living temporarily with a friend.

ECONOMICS

Porto Santo Line keeps prices the same.  Porto Santo Line run the maritime ferry, ‘Lobo Marinho’, between Madeira and Porto Santo. They will not increase prices this year, in a bid to attract customers. Turnover (cargo) fell 14% last year although the number of passengers increased by 3% to reach 361,275. The drop in business meant a loss of 1 million Euros in turnover. In four years, the cost of travel to Porto Santo has increased a little over 2% and the price for residents is kept uniform throughout the year. The winter season (October to March) is 19.9% cheaper and 40% of passengers travel then. Resident rates are 38.3% below the average ticket price but they are not publicly subsidized, unlike in the Azores. Porto Santo Line are exempt from port charges to compensate for the reduction for residents. A fuel surcharge was not added last year following a drop in fuel prices. Porto Santo Line promotes packages – travel plus hotel, groups of two or four passengers in a car – which can drop the ticket price by 20 – 50% during the winter season, and summer discounts are smaller, 3 – 10%.

UPDATE

"Invasion" of Madalena do Mar stopped. The dispute centres on the emergency exit routes of the tunnel to Calheta going through the access to a parking lot of a condominium. On Wednesday, in the Legislative Assembly, the Left Bloc denounced the "invasion" of private land by the construction firm. On Wednesday, the residents were verbally told that the excavators would be going onto their land but found they were already there. The Left Bloc said this was a way to prevent the owners from triggering any legal mechanism to prevent the invasion of their land. Legally, they should have been given written warning of compulsory purchase of their land by the Regional Government. Today, the construction company was prevented from entering the private property. The residents denied the company access and the police were called. This is a tug-of-war between the residents, Regional Government and the construction company. The residents have had a subpoena filed in court to protect their rights and liberties.

JORNAL DA MADEIRA

FRONT PAGE NEWS

Working group for the recuperation of the Marina and Avenida do Mar. The Municipality of Funchal and APRAM (Ports Authority) have formed a working group to develop a master plan for the recovery of the Marina of Funchal and the third phase of the renovation of the Avenida do Mar. The third phase is from the Verdinho bar to Ribeira de São João. The aim is an integration of the terraces of the Marina and the Avenida do Mar, an area that is little used and unappealing. The council want more green areas and need to consider how to move the palm trees, which were imported from the Canary Islands in the 1980s, to other gardens. The monuments must be preserved and integrated into the new design which must align with works on the North Pier and on the west side. The council also want to know if the central reservation of grass and trees is justified.

REGIONAL

Debt of Madeira Palace is 7.5 million. The Hilton and Sheraton hotel chains are in discussion about the management of the construction of the Madeira Palace hotel. The work stopped for several months last year. The construction company has 50 employees on the site but is having a problem due to the developer owing them 7.5 million Euros. The construction company cannot carry out any more work and the licenses expire in March, but should be easily renewable.

Fábrica dos Sonhos  and Geringonça in Machico. Geringonça has been invited to open the Carnival Parade in Machico on Sunday at 15.00. Fábrica dos Sonhos (Factory of Dreams) will be the final act. This will be the tenth time Geringonça has taken part in Machico Carnival. Local schools and youth organizations will participate along with the Municipal Band of Machico.

EVENTS

‘Ritual’ in the cemetery of Câmara de Lobos. A most unusual situation was found in the cemetery on Tuesday morning. Gravediggers found on the stairs near the chapel, in a corner, a ‘table’ on which there were three bottles of aguadente (rum), three bottles of champagne, various glasses, a 2 kilo piece of beef, cigarettes and a fire near the wall. Since this is not a place for parties, the conclusion is that it is part of a ritual by either ‘healers’ or ‘masters of magic’ to invoke the dead for various reasons. 

Also, many thanks to Elaine for these web snippets :

A Texan family from a cruise ship visit and are initially harassed but still enjoyed the visit. Lots of good photos.

"I know, I know…I’m very slow! This is the last port day that I have to share with you and in my opinion it was the prettiest. I would love to be able to go back some day and spend more time in Portugal.

Once again we got off the ship with no real plans. We dined with a family that had visited Madeira before and they told us is was unnecessary to buy the bus ticket into town, which were 4.00 each way. So, we took out walking…and we walked…and we walked…and we walked. We were beginning to second guess the decision to walk to town when a gentleman approached us and told us he could take us all over the island and be our personal tour guide for the day. He was a pretty aggressive salesman and I could tell the girls were rather nervous. After Brent dickering with him about the price, the final price was 130 Euro. Brent hemmed and hawed and told the man he would have to pass" TEXAN TALE

Discovering Portugal’s Madeira Wine. Three page article in the January/February edition of Virtuoso Life Magazine.

Today’s news headlines from the front page of the Diário de Notícias :

Children shrug-off the Carnival rain – Even with limitations, the kids shook the city.  Well of course they did, the kids are born waterproof these days … when was the last time you saw a kid carrying an umbrella? Anyway there is a nice photo on the front page, and probably more inside. But just blowing the blog trumpet a little, you didn’t have to wait until the next day to see carnival pictures on this website.

Serrão gives paid place to the decisive supporter – The leader of the Socialist Party of Machico will be the local government coordinator.

Race on in the national Social Democrat Party : The ‘oranges’ from here are disturbed with the order of Jardim.

National Council of PSD – Jardim quarrels with Passos Coelho. The leader of the Social Democrats of Madeira said that Passos should no longer be making policy in the PSD.  Alberto João Jardim was involved in a lively battle with the candidate for the leadership of the PSD, Pedro Passos Coelho. In a speech appealing for party unity, one of the first of the PSD National Council, the Madeiran leader criticised Coelho for his stance with the Regional Finance Law. In a face to face confrontation, Jardim told Coelho, ex leader of the Youth PSD, that if it was up to him he would be making any more party policy. Coelho responded that "it is just as well that the party doesn’t depend on you".

Today’s main news headline :  Earth from the landslides invades rivers of Faial – After the storms, it is needed to clear the roads. Rivers pay the price. Justification : in times of emergency, one forgives  the bad with the good that it does. Yes I know, that last bit doesn’t make total sense, but I get the drift of the message. The gist of this is that in Ribeira Seca the muck and rubble from the mudslides is being cleared from the roads and then being dumped into the river to be taken out to sea. There are proper sites where this debris can be deposited, but the president of Santana, Rui Moisés, says that in the time of war it is no time to be cleaning weapons, and that restoring normality is the priority. Environmentalist say that that is the exact reason why rivers cause landslides, because the river beds are fouled. As always, I am with the ‘play it safe’ environmentalists when there is any element of uncertainty in such an action, but with the rainy season just around the corner, we will soon find out who was right and who was wrong. That’s a bit scary isn’t it, after what we have already seen this Winter, to think that the rainy season hasn’t even arrived yet.

People power stops advance of the machines – Yesterday morning was one of tension in Madalena [do Mar]. Despite of the police presence, the exit construction works from the tunnel didn’t get started. There is a thought provoking picture of an elderly lady, armed with an umbrella, ‘getting booked’ by the village bobby.  Both Elaine and I have both given this story plenty of coverage, so not much more to add really.

The main sport / football headline today : 100 – "I have already had to cut-off unpleasant conversations". The referee Elmano Santos will tomorrow complete his 100th game in the top flight.

If anyone else can oblige with the translation of any of the ‘blank’ or sparsely filled headlines, or other news stories, here is the link. All contributions much appreciated. 

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If you can, please contribute something Madeira related. A funny story or good or bad experience, a news item, or a story from a Madeira newspaper, a photo or video, a teaser, news of a bargain flight or item in a supermarket. Please help keep this blog going … without user contributions it won’t survive. Please don’t send in automatic translations (like Google translator) without checking them through and correcting them first, thanks.

You can email blog@madeira4u.com with any large contributions and photos / videos.

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Please use the comments here for general chit-chat, or feel free to ask any questions … someone usually has an answer.

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Today’s photo – Many thanks to Pete … swimming pool area behind the Forte De São Tiago damaged in the December 2009 storms

With the Portuguese tax year just finished, and the time to submit tax returns just around the corner, this is a rather useful set of Questions & Answers on what you can and cannot submit in terms of medical expenses PORTUGAL NEWS ONLINE

The weekly travel challenge from the UK Independent newspaper this week targets Madeira : "Every week we invite competing companies to give us their best deal for a specified holiday. Today: a week in Madeira, departing on 26 February". The responses (so far) include 4 or 5 star hotels, but I reckon I could find cheaper (for a small fee of course). RESULTS

"Don’t miss the top spot to visit – Funchal Botanical Garden. With an area of 80,000 sq. m. it is the most famous tourist attraction on the island. There is a collection of more than 2500 plant species. Its location in the amphitheatre will enchant you. The Botanical Gardens provides its visitors with spectacular panoramic views over the mountainous backdrop, the city below and its bay with the deep blue waters of the Atlantic". I don’t think it the most famous personally. New year fireworks is for me if we are talking man made tourist attractions. Anyone think that some of those photos have appeared before as the blog daily photos? FULL ARTICLE

"With the advent of refrigerators and other similar devices today it has become possible to have ice all year-round. Now … imagine 100 years ago …. how could one get ice? Only in winter and in the highest regions of Madeira, when it snowed or hailed. Madeira ancestors solved the problem by building reservoirs in which they could store and preserve the ice and snow that winter brought to them those days. It was then used by hospitals and hotels, … thus resulting in the famous Wells of Snow (Poços da Neve)". Don has given his blog a new look HERE

Becky has come up with another batch of web snippets she found … many thanks :

A brilliant clip courtesy of British Pathe.  "Women’s Own" models, Gina and Brenda explore Madeira during a fashion shoot for the magazine in 1952.  Hilarious.  "Play suit" conjures up such different images these days. FOR THE OVER 18’s ONLY

At the risk of boring everyone with historical journals, here’s a link to a short chapter from the Letters of John Driver in 1834 (they’re getting earlier!). He writes engagingly and if you click on [PDF] you’ll get the first 10 pages. It seems he was more interested in chatting up Americans than the locals 176 years ago. If you like what you read, the book of letters has recently been published in hardback and paperback. FUNCHAL LIBRARY BLOG

Over twelve thousand visits from 106 countries to this blog in January, the best yet after 8 months with Madeira Island Direct.

Many thanks to Elaine once again for yesterday’s top news stories :

DIÁRIO 31/01/2010 MADEIRA

Five pathways closed. In less than a month, bad weather and landslides have forced the closure of five footpaths and levadas which are included in the official walking circuit of the serras of Madeira. The official ‘Turismo’ site alerts walkers to the closures and the Regional Director of Forestry acknowledges that the renovation of such extensively damaged areas will be expensive. Levada do Rei, Caldeirão Verde, Caminho Real da Encumeada, Levada da Fajã do Rodrigues and Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal are the five closed footpaths. The worst affected is the Caminho Real da Encumeada, especially the section Boca da Corrida at Encumeada. Almost all the walking paths on the island have been damaged by the bad weather, the ones least affected are near the south coast and on Porto Santo. Before work can be undertaken, a survey will have to be carried out and a firm contracted.

Region lacks Nature Wardens. The Nature Wardens (vigilantes) began in 1988 with four people and there are now 36 members of staff. The law requires 50, which would be too many, according to the President of the Association of Nature Wardens of Madeira. Tuesday is the National Day of ‘Vigilante Nature’. They work in the protected areas and natural reserves under the Service of the Natural Park of Madeira (SPNM). Their work includes helping in conservation projects, raising awareness and environmental educational projects in schools and other establishments. The Wardens also stay on the Ilhas Desertas and Selvagens for three weeks at a time. The Association is facing recruitment challenges as for the past few years there have been no new recruits. The work is physically demanding, including the use of rock climbing equipment and boats.

Plants and animals in Funchal, Madeira 2010 competition. This is open to those aged between 10 and 25 years old. It aims to increase knowledge of the environment and biodiversity in the region. Teams of three to five can enter. Activities will occur in these seven locations of Funchal:  Parque de Santa Catarina, Jardim Municipal, Jardim das Plantas Aromáticas, Jardim de Santa Luzia, Jardim Botânico da Madeira, Núcleo dos Dragoeiros and Jardim do Madeira Magic. These activities will consist of obligatory tasks at predefined locations and dates, assessed for aesthetics, use of techniques and materials and originality. Prizes awarded for the best work of second and third cycles, secondary and university students and awards for all participants. The activities will be carried out during March and April and prize giving is on May 22nd, the International Day of Biological Diversity. The activities will strengthen ties with the natural heritage of Madeira, promote team working, help participants discover the plants and animals on the island and challenge them intellectually, physically and artistically. (Photo from the area Núcleo dos Dragoeiros).

ECONOMY

SATA promotes Madeira – Zurich flights for 278 Euros (round trip). Another special promotion. The direct flight to Switzerland leaves every Sunday afternoon and returns at night. The Airbus A320 has 160 seats. — No details of any conditions.

TerraMinha charter flights from Lisbon to Porto Santo. This firm is part of the tour operator Sonhando (Pestana Group) and has initial promotions using flights leaving Lisbon on Saturdays between 10 April and 23 October. Flying with SATA, the seven night package includes accommodation and breakfast. Prices are valid for advance bookings until April 30 or until 60 days before departure. Promotional prices vary from 432 Euros for accommodation at the Praia Dourada to 995 Euros at the Pestana Porto Santo, although the firm also uses other hotels.

Aigle Azur magazine devotes 18 pages to Madeira. This is the autumn edition of the in-flight magazine of this French carrier. The two principle articles cover 15 pages and describe the potential of Madeira as a tourist destination, suggesting routes and itineraries, and the history and geography of the archipelago. It also includes useful tourist information. There is a direct weekly flight from Orly Airport, increasing to twice a week from March. Aigle Azur expect Madeira to become a popular destination for the French tourist, thus invested in promotional flights which brought 150 travel agents and journalists to the island last October. This company had remarkable growth last year are are implementing a total of 40 flights per week from Paris to Lisbon, Porto, Faro and Madeira.

NS magazine – no prizes given to Madeira wines. This magazine is distributed with Saturday’s editions of the two major Portuguese newspapers, ‘Diário de Notícias’ and ‘Jornal de Notícias’. Yesterday’s copy published the list of the ‘Best of 2009′ wines. In the 18 categories, Madeira wines had 5 nominations. They were on the short-list in 10 categories but could not get enough votes for the first place in any of them. The region was nominated for Best Protected DOC, won by Bucelas. Old Blandy Wine Lodge (Adegas de São Francisco) nominated for Best Wine Tourism Without Estate, won by Quinta do Seixo, Adegas Sandeman in Tabuaço. The Vila Cipriani restaurant in Reid’s Hotel nominated for Best Wine Service in a Restaurant, won by Fortaleza do Guincho in Cascais. The Madeira Wine Company nominated for Best Fortified Wine Producer, won by José Maria da Fonseca. In the Personality of the Year category, Américo Pereira of Diago’s Wine Cellar was nominated but André Ribeirinho of ‘Blogger Adegga’ won.

POLITICS

Arlindo prefers to preserve nature in Socorridos. Last Thursday, the Municipal Council of Funchal approved the Urbanization Plan of Socorridos by the firm Tâmega, with only the support of the PSD party. This will legalise the unlicensed industrial activity in the area, that has been repeatedly acknowledged by the council and Regional Government.  Arlindo Gomes, the Mayor of Câmara de Lobos, does not follow the intent of Funchal to urbanize the valley but prefers to recover and preserve the natural aspects of the area. He promises that as stated in the PDM, the land will be for agricultural purposes. Laurissilva in the corridor leading to Curral das Freiras will be preserved. In the photo, the left-hand side of the valley belongs to this municipality with the river bed on the side of Funchal.

JORNAL DA MADEIRA

Azores will receive 20 million Euros. From the European Commission for the restructuring of the dairy sector under the strengthening of rural developments program. This restructuring of the dairy industry involves 27 member states and 14.5% of the total budget. The funds are from the CAP and the Economic Recovery Plan. The current economic and environmental situation requires action. — This is important to Madeira as the Azores are the main source of dairy products.

Porto Santo Line maintains tariff. In 2010, the Porto Santo Line will keep the present price list (2009 prices) for the sea voyages between Funchal and Porto Santo. The departure times also stay the same. Economy class round trip costs 42.10 Euros for adults in low season (January – March and October – December) and 51.50 Euros during high season (April – September). Residents in Porto Santo pay 28.60 Euros for each return ticket throughout the year. Children between 5 and 11 years pay 50% of the adult fare and children under 5 travel free. Vehicle transport fares are the same as in 2009. The fares are subject to fuel surcharges.

Police identify a dozen individuals in raid. On Friday night / Saturday morning, both uniformed and civilian police officers held a preventative raid in areas of Funchal, Santo António, São Martinho and São Roque. They went to establishments that had given rise to complaints in terms of noise and public disorder. Social complexes were searched for narcotics, particularly Quinta Josefina in Nazaré and Ribeira Grande. Some vehicles were stopped and individuals were identified but no arrests made.

Today’s news headlines from the front page of the Diário de Notícias :

Cáritas [charity] and grandparents have to feed children – Couples robbed of resources by the crisis leave the children with the grandparents and institutions. There are more and more cases of kids getting caught up in the economic crisis, going hungry at school, and being supported by grandparents. The first impacts of unemployment are felt by adults, but the children end up facing the consequences when hardships arise. Failure of maintenance payments is also a harsh reality, with hundreds of cases being dealt with through the courts, and Madeira at the moment is in a peak of single parent families. In some cases, especially where drug addiction is involved, children are even being abandoned, without any warning, with grandparents. In cases like these the charities step in to help where the grandparents cannot provide what is needed.

Today’s main news headline : Company waits 12 years for €6 million from the government – Successive appeals in court continue hindering judicial decisions that indicate towards an indemnity from the Regional Government to the businessman Avelino Catanho.  At stake, lands at Zona Franca.

This photo was taken in Santa da Serra yesterday where the water depth here reached one metre, after heavy rain at the end of the morning. 

Today’s main photo shows the cruise ship AIDALuna in Funchal Port in some pretty agitated looking water : Strong waves delay docking – The angry sea obliged the AIDALuna to stay out at sea for 4 hours, for a peek of an opening in order to dock in the Pontinha, that finished up being done with the help of a tug boat. I think that spell of high waves yesterday occurred right on a very high tide, because although the waves were not that big, they seemed to sweep over everything in front. The picture on the news last night showed one swimming area in Funchal underwater, and the Lugar de Baixo marina looking a bit of a mess … nothing new there then!

In politics : Jacinto Serrão asks for the resignation of Ventura Garcês – The size of the regional debt scares the leader of the Madeira Socialist Party, who is going to ask for the intervention of President Cavaco Silva.

Canon Martins wants to see the icon in Ribeira Seca. The priest is referring to the statue of Fátima that is on loan from mainland Portugal, and has been touring the churches of Madeira for the last few months. He said at the end of mass yesterday, in Machico, that the statue was coming to Ribeira Seca, fulfilling a promise made by the Bishop of Funchal. Fátima is due to be in the churches in Machico between the 5th and 9th May. Canon Manuel Martins had asked the faithful to pray for this to happen, and for any obstacles to be removed. The power of faith and prayer eh! I prayed for a cheese and pickle sandwich at 11pm last night, and I am still waiting. No faith, that’s my trouble.

The main sport / football headline today : NONE! That’s twice in a week, what is going on?

If anyone else can oblige with the translation of any of the ‘blank’ or sparsely filled headlines, or other news stories, here is the link. All contributions much appreciated. 

… and to finish today, a couple of pieces from the Diário de Notícias from Elaine out West … many thanks.

Madeira Mandolins at Teatro Municipal.
A piece by Antonio Vivaldi and ‘Preludium and Allegro’, a work by composer Fritz Kreisler for mandolin and orchestra will be performed by Isabel Camacho and Sara Gonçalves together with soloist André Martins. These are works to mark the special concert of Mandolins da Madeira, led by Eurico Martins, on 18 February at 21.00 hours in the Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias. Tickets (20 Euros) are now on sale at the Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias.

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If you can, please contribute something Madeira related. A funny story or good or bad experience, a news item, or a story from a Madeira newspaper, a photo or video, a teaser, news of a bargain flight or item in a supermarket. Please help keep this blog going … without user contributions it won’t survive. Please don’t send in automatic translations (like Google translator) without checking them through and correcting them first, thanks.

You can email blog@madeira4u.com with any large contributions and photos / videos.

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Please use the comments here for general chit-chat, or feel free to ask any questions … someone usually has an answer.

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Today’s photo – Many thanks to Pete … "Pleasant day in the Madeira sun".

Pete says (by email) :   "May I add a comment for the blog. Has anyone suggested a column where people who been looking for items in shops, and can’t find them, a suggestion from readers giving advice on how to find them?" Suggestions always welcome, but in this case a question about the item in the comments would probably do the trick Pete. The truth is that I have implemented a number of reader suggestions over the years, but the reality is that the ones that rely on reader involvement or contributions just die a death because there are insufficient people willing to get involved. Der.

This is a blog of a lady called Kim who lives on Madeira, and although the blog article link provided isn’t itself very relevant to Madeira (about a ferry trip from Funchal to the Canary islands on holiday in 2008), who knows if some interesting articles may appear later. She has already written some ‘interesting’ and varied pieces, that you can see on the right hand menu under RECENT ARTICLES

If you like poetry this is cute, with a nice picture of some men indulging in the famous ‘Vinho Seco’. “Madeira Under The Vine” by Mitch Hicks

… and one for the birdwatchers too, with a video of the Great Northern Loon in Madeira I am not quite sure where the ‘great’ bit originated though.

Becky kindly sent in this video link … I am sure I saw Uncle Bertie in there somewhere eating an empanada

Also from Becky, a blog from a ‘mysterious person’ who was here in the early 1970’s : "There was a small, exclusive restaurant located in a basement below a small supermarket (an oddity in itself in those days !). This was up one of these little winding roads on a hill. And in this little restaurant, we would have tornado rossini steaks that were probably 2" thick and served on a 2" thick matching piece of delicious fresh bread, with the juices soaking into it. And all around this steak would be small, delicate servings of various vegetables. And there was a different waiter for every item — one for the water, one for the wine, one for the bread, one for the meal … the service was incredible. The entire meal ran about $2". JOJO ZAWAWI’S BLOG

See if you can figure out what these words have in common :
1 Banana, 2 Dresser, 3 Grammar, 4 Potato, 5 Revive, 6 Uneven, 7 Assess.

Many thanks to Elaine once again for yesterday’s top news stories :

FRONT PAGE NEWS – Diário 26/01/2010

PS regroup. The president of the Socialist Party, Jacinto Serrão, wants to recover lost votes and activists (party members). Among them, of course, the so-called independents of Gaula and when specifically asked about them, he said he has an "open mind". At the last election, the socialists lost in all counties, particularly Santa Cruz and Câmara de Lobos where they lost to the smaller political parties. Jacinto Serrão views "hopeful signs" with "tens" of new activists and the party needs restructuring and new bodies should be operational in three weeks time. He insists the internal dispute ended on January 9th (election of new leader) and there is room for supporters of the other main candidate for leadership, Victor Freitas.

Machico increases money for sport but not culture. The Municipality of Machico has frozen money transferred to cultural associations regardless of an increase or decrease in the number of planned activities. This decision was taken on January 15 at the last council meeting. As in previous years, the socialist councillors abstained from approval of this vote. The socialists maintain that over the past five years, funding for sport has increased by 28% (60,000 Euros) but not a penny more for cultural associations. The amount transferred to the football clubs themselves is more than the total for cultural associations. The socialists recommend a 20% increase in funding for culture. The mayor, Emanuel Gomes said the crisis justifies the assignments. The council is having liquidity problems with no prospect of an increase in revenue from the State and a large loss in revenue from construction works and licensing of works. 43,250 Euros has been allocated to 13 cultural associations. Only three receive more council funding, 7,500 Euros each: Banda Municipal de Machico, Prestige Dance and the Cultural Group ‘Flores de Maio’.

MADEIRA

Dolce Vita teaches energy conservation and road safety. A roadshow aiming to increase awareness and publicize the best solutions for tackling climate change and the rational use of energy, runs from 29 January to 1 February. It is accompanied by an exhibition, ‘The Future of Our Climate: Man and the Atmosphere’, highlighting greenhouse gases and climate change and what people can do to combat them. Between now and February 5, the police are raising awareness of road safety and accidents. In the session, there will be a simulation of a traffic accident between a motorbike and a car, accompanied by a photographic exhibition showing accidents that have occurred in Madeira.

Copyright ends up in court. Six Madeiran owners of restaurants and nightclubs have refused to pay the licence fee for playing music in their establishments. This has forced the Society of Portuguese Authors (SPA) to proceed with litigation. The fee is 300 Euros per year per establishment. For the last eighteen months, members of SPA have visited shops, bars and restaurants with background music and asked them for their licence. Most have no licence and some have chosen to turn off the music, many rebelled with verbal abuse. The ones that do apply for a licence before opening a bar are the few older immigrants form the UK, who are used to having to apply for a licence. The members are used to answering questions about copyright of intellectual property as there is confusion over the rules and this Saturday at 9.30 pm, they are holding a free-entry information session at the Municipal Theatre. There will be an interval with a live music session.

Bothersome bad smell in Santo da Serra. The transport and disposal of debris from the Lagoa do Santo da Serra caused an outcry at the end of last week. The owner of the site is cleaning up the lagoa (pond) and the smell comes from the foliage, branches and tree trunks removed. The president of the Parish Council would not visit the area, saying it is the responsibility of Santa Cruz Council and the council’s environment office have ordered that the intensity of the smell is reduced.

Dispute over land leaves three injured. An alleged dispute over land was the source of shots fired on Sunday night in the parish of Boaventura. A 55 year old father and 48 year old mother are in the Department of Surgery at Funchal Hospital and the 22 year old daughter received emergency treatment for a minor hand injury. The mother has a serious abdominal wound. The alleged perpetrator is a person in their sixties and has been arrested and an application for coercive measures will be made today at the District Court at São Vicente. The crime occurred at 19.00 at Fajã do Penedo where the alleged perpetrator owns land close to the injured family.

Death of a construction worker on trial. The death occurred on the 28 February 2008, when the construction worker was installing water pipes at the Estrada Nova da Marinheira, Estreito de Câmara de Lobos. A traditional stone wall collapsed and buried the 40 year old man who was working in a ditch. At yesterday’s court hearing, evidence was heard from witnesses including relatives, co-workers and security experts. No-one can explain why the wall collapsed and the accident could not have been predicted. A photographic survey before the work was undertaken did not reveal any signs of instability. The plaintiffs want the case to be considered an accident at work so the widow can receive a pension and compensation from the insurer and company responsible for the work.

Lived for a century. Bernadette Maria Correia de Menezes Telo was born on January 26, 1910. Reaching 100 years is a gift, but to reach this age with lucidity and reasonable mobility is a luxury that few reach. Bernadette was born in Santana and lived there for most of her life and also resided in Funchal. Two siblings have died and her husband, who was 10 years older, died 30 years ago. She has had four children but the youngest died. There are six living grandchildren after one died in an accident in South Africa, and three great-grandchildren. She was born in the year of the war and news in the early twentieth century was transmitted through the radio. When Bernadette was young, Santana came alive during holidays with families from Funchal spending their summer holidays there. At such times, they danced the foxtrot and waltzes. With her siblings, she entertained by playing the guitar, viola and bandolin. She does not know what has been planned for today’s celebrations but they include the whole family as it is such an important date. — Looks well in the photo – no information about how many reach this age. Does she receive a telegram and if so, from which president?

CULTURE

Work of Max Römer helps UNICEF – Haiti. The exhibition running at the Mouraria Gallery until 20 February is to celebrate 20 years of the company Dima. Dima have launched a collection of seven postcards, inspired by this artist’s work and reproduced by an English artist, Alex Jawdakímov (watercolours). Each set costs five Euros which goes to the UNICEF – Haiti appeal. According to one of the private collectors who have loaned pieces for the exhibition, Römer was a versatile artist and the most important aspect of his work was in the design. He introduced the first machine to produce postcards to Madeira.

Fadista honours Madeira. Concert by Salvador Taborda at the Municipal Theatre in Funchal on Friday 29 January at 21.30. He will present themes from his most recent album ‘A Cor do Fado’ and from previous recordings. He will sing a previously unheard piece which is a tribute to Madeira. Salvador is accompanied by three musicians who are also of the new generation of fado. It is the first time that he has sung in the region and this Portuguese artist was invited by Miguel Albuquerque [Funchal Council President]. Tickets cost 10 Euros with discounts for young people and senior citizens.

ECONOMY

FNC Excursões have a new branch. Located in the Quinta Bela de São Tiago. Their tourist activities are sought after by young people and they take advantage of low-cost airlines in the region. New programs called ‘Stress Out’ and ‘Life is Beautiful’ and they have official walking guides and use Springcar coaches. Also have a website for booking.

Le Grand Bleu mega-yacht in port. This private yacht is in port today for refuelling and to give the crew a rest period. The yacht arrives from Philipsburg at 19.00 and leaves on Friday at 7 am. This is the third visit and the yacht occupies the 16th position in the list of the largest motor yachts in the world. The mega-yacht was commissioned in 2000 by the billionaire John McCaw and was acquired in 2002 by Roman Abramovich and since 2008, has been owned by Eugene Shvidler. The Lobo Marinho ferry returns to port today after a 15 day break for the annual maintenance work and should resume the maritime link to Porto Santo tomorrow at 8 am.

10 new Funchal buses capable of carrying wheelchairs and pushchairs. 10 new buses for the company Horários do Funchal after an investment of 2 million Euros. The central door has a hydraulic ramp for wheelchairs and pushchairs / prams. These new buses mean that ten old buses, more than 23 years old, can be withdrawn from service. There will also be environmental gains. Two banks finance 50% of the cost of the buses which is 945,000 Euros plus IVA for each bus. There is a problem of obtaining buses with a centrally placed engine as Volvo are the only firm presently manufacturing them. The buses entering service in 2008 have a rear engine and can only be used on 42% of the routes whereas the new buses can be used on 80% of the routes. Example of a difficult route is the intersection between Caminho de Ferro and Rua da Levada de Santa Luzia.

POLITICS

PCP against ‘backdoor’ privatization. The Regional Government wants to transfer the Professional School of Hospitality and Tourism to the private sector, to free the Regional Budget of €4.5 million annually. The deadline for tenders is Thursday and the application period was only 37 days. The communists say the transfer for a period of 15 years is a matter of public interest and should be subject to clarification. If quality of training worsens, then the regional economy will be harmed.

Levada in Calheta costs a fortune. Members of the PSD were in the area of Maloeira in Calheta to inspect part of the upgrading work between Funchal and Ponta do Pargo, a total investment of 4.2 million Euros. The first phase, between Salão and Prazeres was completed last summer (13 km/1.3 million Euros) and this second phase extends to Ponta do Pargo (26 km/2.9 million Euros). 85% is co-funded by the EU and the remaining cost is from the Regional Budget. This irrigation channel will be upgraded by 2011 and serves 4,900 farmers and four water treatment stations. The cost is justified as the levada is 60 years old and looses 30 litres per second.

Gaula discuss postponement of works. The Parish of Gaula want a discussion with the local population in the next few days, about the postponement of the work on the Caminho do Porto Novo – Achada Rocha. The postponement was decided last November after a meeting of the Regional Government (Jardim?) and the Municipal Council of Santa Cruz. Élvio Sousa (JPP), the President of Gaula Parish Council, says the precise timing of the meeting will depend on the supply of documents by Santa Cruz Council, needed to analyze the contract. The parish council want to know what the local population want them to do next.

Finance Minister appeals to parties. Teixeira dos Santos said that the Regional Finance Law is "spending at a time when there must be rigour, discipline and budget constraints". He said it will have an impact on the State Budget. Manuela Ferreira Leite, the national PSD leader, said the law is not a budget issue and should be debated separately. The PS are pressurizing the PSD, insisting that they cannot say the fundamental problem is Portugal’s debt and put forward a proposal that increases the debt by financial transfers to an autonomous region. The CDS-PP are trying to reach a consensus as they are important intermediaries but their position is not clear.

Jardim is not intimidated by Teixeira dos Santos. The Finance Minister has threatened to resign if the Regional Finance Law is passed and Jardim has reacted swiftly, "The exit of Teixeira dos Santos from Government is the biggest favour he could do for the country." Jardim states "the Portuguese are being cheated" as Madeira does not want anymore money but "a replacement of the conditions created by a socialist law". The Regional Government has calculated that the revision of the law would account for 0.05% of the 2010 State Budget. Jardim said that for the Finance Minister to threaten to resign over this small percentage was either irresponsible or blackmail. This amount is less than the amount transferred to TAP and the international community would think that the Portuguese are crazy. The Portuguese would realize that to threaten to resign over a law representing 0.04% of GDP is a plot. In reference to the leader of the Azores, Jardim said that his declarations were serious but the Azores would not be jeopardized by the revision of the law.

LATE NEWS

Benefit concert for Haiti. The students of the Conservatório-Escola das Artes will hold a concert to raise funds for the victims. 21.00 on Thursday at the Municipal Theatre in Funchal.

JORNAL DA MADEIRA

Porto Santo Line will review subsidized airline tickets. The company will review next year, the policy that Porto Santo residents can buy subsidized flight tickets during the time when the Lobo Marinho is in dry dock for annual maintenance. Many abuses were recorded, with cases of people buying five tickets at prices much cheaper than normal (28.60 Euros) and will use them in April and May. Such people have never travelled on the ferry during 2009 and disadvantage residents who need to travel for essential reasons. The normal cost of the trip for residents is 80 Euros and there were 50 subsidized places per day. This is the first year that they have detected this exploitation.

Today’s news headlines from the front page of the Diário de Notícias :

Today’s main news headline : Finances of Madeira confuse until the end – Sócrates today wants to postpone the Regional Finance Law again. The Social Democrat Party already dropped the retroactive payment [arrears], and the Christian Democrats carry on doing the sums. Madeira could receive only half of what it wanted. There are several lead stories in the Diário today on this subject, with a big day ahead for Madeira, and an even bigger day ahead for the Socialist Government, who risk losing the vote with their minority holding, something that could have bigger repercussions for Portugal as a whole. If the matter of arrears has been dropped, and the financial benefit for Madeira is now as low as quoted above, then aside from some constitutional type issues included, the RFL has become nothing more really than a political football and we will see how many players each team has later today.

Tunnel with emergency exit in the backyard earns a slating – Residents threaten to resort to the European Court because the emergency exit of the new road branch to Madalena comes out at the access of the garage of the building. The government says it is cutting costs. The owners of the apartments in the building in Madalena do Mar are upset that the government is making a compulsory purchase of land that will serve as an exit from an emergency escape tunnel from the new main road tunnel being constructed. The access road will then become part of the public highway. The 309 square meter area being targeted not only takes the access road to the building garage, but also some ‘out front’ parking spaces for the apartments and shops. I didn’t know that Madalena had any shops?

Islands and Centenary of the Republic are being debated this year – The Study Centre of Atlântico has a cultural and scientific programme.

Rupture in the water mains leaves Santo António without water. These were commonplace when I first moved to Madeira, with a lot of digging and building work going on, and a loss of water supply every few months, but I have to say I don’t think we have lost our water supply for several years now. With my monthly bill still at around €4 a month, even though it has probably doubled in 3 years, I think that with service like that it is pretty good value for money.

The main sport / football headline today : Rúben Micael ignites war Porto – Benfica. The Madeiran player, now in FC Porto, exposes the intimidation of Jorge Jesus and Rui Costa in the game Benfica v Nacional. With just a week after joining Porto from Nacional, the lad from Câmara de Lobos has gone in with two feet, not that that fire needed reigniting. This all goes back to the match in Lisbon last October when there were a number of unpleasant incidents, and Micael accuses the Benfica coach of trying to provoke trouble and making a two fingered gesture at him. He said in the radio interview that it was the first time he had been asked for his version of events.

If anyone else can oblige with the translation of any of the ‘blank’ or sparsely filled headlines, or other news stories, here is the link. All contributions much appreciated. 

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If you can, please contribute something Madeira related. A funny story or good or bad experience, a news item, or a story from a Madeira newspaper, a photo or video, a teaser, news of a bargain flight or item in a supermarket. Please help keep this blog going … without user contributions it won’t survive. Please don’t send in automatic translations (like Google translator) without checking them through and correcting them first, thanks.

You can email blog@madeira4u.com with any large contributions and photos / videos.

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Please use the comments here for general chit-chat, or feel free to ask any questions … someone usually has an answer.

(more…)

Today’s photo – Many thanks to Becky … 2010 Funchal fireworks from Rua do Lazareto

No ‘bonus items’ for today, so no other websites to visit, videos to watch, just Becky’s photo above, so that’s allowed me a little time to have a ramble, and reflect on the weekend just passed.

Saturday morning started off with a trip to the local Modelo. There and back in less than an hour, so I was quite please with myself … for a while at least. A new sale 50% had started, although according to the flyer I received afterwards, it wasn’t actually supposed to start until Sunday, but nether-the-less there it was, so I managed to stock up on many things I didn’t really need with a 50% discount (on the Modelo loyalty card, as usual). Most of the ’sale’ items’ were also unusually all located together, so that was really handy to stock up all from one aisle. 18 litres of milk were acquired, but it wasn’t until I returned home that I noticed that the b*****ds hadn’t discounted the 73c price by 50%, so I had paid an extra €4 and something. Most annoying! And then to make matters even worse, I opened a carton of Continente ‘tuna chunks’ on Sunday night, to find one chunk missing. What’s the matter with these people, can’t  they count. I don’t think I have ever been to Modelo without some mistake being made in 6 years, but I usually manage to sniff out more of the ones in my favour.

I didn’t really get time to browse the newspapers this weekend, but somebody did give me copy of MAIS, the weekend magazine that comes with the Diário newspaper. That put me off my beer when I saw a very unexpected mug peering out at me … enough said!

I mentioned on Sunday morning the appearance of a new sandy beach at Ribeira Brava, and forget to thank the people of Calheta for donating it. By Sunday afternoon it had gone again, so I figured that it is just a low tide beach for now, as it was back again on Sunday night. Yesterday morning the sand was even deeper. I had figured this would happen one day, but expected a gradual build up of sand, not for it all to happen overnight. Fishermen in hoards have taken over the beaches and the quay, mostly fishing in areas they shouldn’t be, but the council don’t care it seems. I said before that I thought that one of the giant nets at the offshore Campanário fish farm had broken in the stormy seas, and looking at the tiddlers these fisherman were catching, I think that must be the case. Some of them were bagging skinny little fish as small as 7 or 8 cm long, a mouthful at most, and I am guessing that they are Dourada, but am not certain. If they all held back on the catch for a few months these fish would have grown significantly and been worthwhile fishing for, but whether that’s a fisherman or human mentality or not, I don’t know.

The receipt of a ‘Golden Buda’ email (from two sources) one Sunday afternoon, told me that I was going to get some luck in the next few hours. I can’t get lucky stuck indoors I thought, so I ventured off into town at night Then Nacional lost to Benfica, so the luck obviously wasn’t coming from all angles … persistence was obviously needed. I went with a pal to a bar I hadn’t been in since 2008, and it is now under new management. I got the new customer treatment, which was nice, even though a medium beer was a pricey €1.20. I was given a free liquor, or something like that, but didn’t like it much. The Polvo (Octopus, or even squid perhaps) turned up in a small bowl. I knew I shouldn’t have indulged, but it did taste nice even though pretty tough as usual, and so I am still picking out chunks stuck in my teeth two days later. Then another beer later came along with a dish of piping hot spicy chips. That was a little bit of my promised luck I thought, but at €1.20 for a beer a free complete meal was what I  really deserved.

Then it was back to school yesterday … it’s beginning to seem that the start of a new term for us Portuguese students is doomed to fail, and yesterday was no exception. 20 minutes into the lesson, and still no teacher. A quick trip down to the office, and it materialized that the dozen of us who had turned up were on our way out again without so much as lifting a pen. Teacher was off on doctors orders, and no one had told us, and no substitute was arranged, and it seems we have two more weeks of the same. As a kid I would have whooped with joy, but at a slightly less tender age now, I just want to get on with it and see the course out.

The vaccination of under 18 year olds against Gripe A is underway – Maurício Melim admits limitations in the health centres. Starting yesterday the health centres of Madeira are vaccinating against H1N1 swine flu in the age group 6 months to 18 years, and also the parents of babies under 6 months old. The president of the Institute of Health Administration IASAÚDE predicts a natural increase in the influx to the health centres. The target priority group will be widened as more vaccine supplies arrive. It will probably be about 5 years before my turn then, what with being an ageing foreigner and all that. We will probably have moved onto Halibut flu (aka Gripe ZX2) by then, and just be entering the phase of Banana flu that is forecast worldwide. In the meantime, I will just have to continue to protect myself with © Toranja Poncha ©, so that’s a bit of a bind now as Toranjas are out of season. Pimpinela poncha for sure wont be very palatable to fill the gap, but the research will go on.

55 new cases of gripe A were diagnosed on Madeira last week.

Many thanks to Elaine once again for yesterday’s top news stories :

Cancelled Porto Santo ferry. The Lobo Marinho ferry did not sail for Porto Santo this morning due to rough seas and strong winds forecasted. The Captain of the Port of Funchal has advised all vessels to stay in safe harbour today with improvements expected this afternoon and tomorrow. 100 reservations had been made. Yesterday, the ferry left Porto Santo at 16.00 instead of 19.00, warning all passengers in advance, due to strong winds forecasted which caused the captain to fear berthing at Funchal in a strong swell. Despite previous announcements to the contrary, the boat will not sail tomorrow as Tuesday is the usual day for maintenance. It’s nice to think that somewhat is enjoying the bad weather, namely the ships crew. Der

MSC Splendida visits Funchal for the first time. Photo of the ship this morning. This new cruise ship accompanied two others, bringing a total of around 7,000 tourists. The Splendida has 3,300 tourists on board but can accommodate up to 3,887 passengers. Arriving form Tenerife at 7 am, she sails for Malaga at 17.00. Traditional arrival ceremony hosted by the Ship Enthusiasts Club and the port authorities but she will not be seen here again until 21 January 2011.

TAP overbooked flight. Yesterday morning at Madeira Airport, nearly two dozen passengers were left behind due to a TAP flight to Porto being overbooked by the airline company. The flight TAP3574 should have left at 11.40 but finally took off at 12.26 due to the confusion. The passengers were left behind despite arriving early, having booked months in advance and some paying more than 300 Euros. Some are University of Porto students who have examinations soon and they thought they had been bypassed in the queue as they were single travellers. The majority were able to fly at midnight yesterday but one student contacted knew of a colleague who could not get a flight until 7am this morning. TAP will pay 250 Euros compensation.

Rampa de Carros de Pau in Água de Pena. (These are home-made wooden go-karts). 28 ‘cars’ and 40 participants in the fourth edition of the race which is organized by the Parish Council. There were more participants yesterday afternoon than previously. Some ‘cars’ are conspicuous in their originality, one decorated with the ‘colours of Ferrari’. The competition is open to all ages and there are prizes for all present, especially the winners of the two categories: individuals and pairs. As they went between the Caminho Florestal and the Queimada de Cima, there were a few minor scratches and bruises from falling off or to poor driving ability, especially around corners, but all the participants were satisfied and happy to complete the course. — I watched them on the news this morning and they were able to accurately steer when they had to weave in between tyres placed in the centre of the road, and quite reasonable speeds were achieved. Some were wearing the requisite helmets and elbow and knee pads but not all. I remember that the race had to be rescheduled to yesterday due to previous bad weather. Fathers and children had combined forces, really enjoying themselves and proud of their efforts – great to see.

JPP accuse PSD of voting against the interests of Gaula. PSD members of the Parish Council of Gaula voted against the 2010 Budget and Plan for the Council. Élvio Sousa (JPP) is the leader of the Parish Council and fails to understand how the PSD can vote against a budget that provides 7,500 Euros for the purchase of medicines and 3,500 Euros for the support of impoverished families. Despite this, the proposals were passed due to the support of the JPP councillors and will be put into practice, an announcement that was received with great enthusiasm from the local people who filled the auditorium of the Civic Centre. Élvio Sousa accused the PSD members of obeying the directives of their party in Funchal. "A true gaules would not vote against the interests of the People of Gaula." Regulations are now being drafted and will be sent for judicial review at the end of January. Élvio Sousa does not know what will be the main criteria for reimbursement of the cost of medicines. Humberto Bettencourt explained that the PSD had voted against the budget because it was a 26% increase relative to last year’s budget and this has not yet been voted for by the County Council. "We never questioned the social measures that the new president presented. We did not vote against it because of these measures."

Right to a view in Avista Navios recognized by the courts. A widow in her 70s living in Caminho do Avista Navios in Nazaré, Funchal has had a long standing dispute with a neighbour over construction work which obstructed her view of the bay of Funchal. She owns a building of 762 square metres and a neighbour built a wall that caused the dispute. The neighbour bought the property in 2003 and in 2004 built a wall which was 2.35 metres high rather than the legal 1.5 metres, and a chimney for a barbecue which also obscured the view. The widow complained that her house has an aluminium and glass porch with a 80 cm high balcony, from which there had been a fantastic view over the city. She has had this right to a view for over 20 years and in addition, the building works caused water damage to her property. In 2005, the defendant was ordered to lower the wall to 1.80 metres and replace the adjacent roof and gutter that had been removed. The neighbour refused and in 2008, another court case ruled that the widow had a right to a view, the offending part of the wall would have to be demolished and compensation paid. The case then went to the Appeal Court in Lisbon and without any reasons given, the court ruled the first decision was correct. The neighbour, still not satisfied, went back to the Appeal Court and on the 10 December, the court again ruled the widow had a right to a view and part of the wall had to be demolished. The defendant has no right to further appeal and will have to comply with the court order.

Cultural events in various areas this month. Cantar dos Reis on Tuesday January 5 at Funchal, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol and other localities. Sunday 10 January, Romarias de Boaventura – São Vicente at the Casa do Povo da Boaventura at 15.00  At 16.00 on the 18 January, the third Canticos da Festa in the Parish Hall at Raposeira, Fajã da Ovelha – Christmas songs from the various parishes. 30 – 31 January at the Praça da Serra de Água, during the afternoon and evening there will be an Exhibition of Crafts and Local Traditions, including recipes for ponchas. On Saturday January 16, a walking tour of Paul da Mar integrated into the festa de Santo Amaro, patron saint of the parish. There are various organizations involved and it recalls the times when local people went down the vereda dos Zimbreiros to go to Paul da Mar. People are invited to take a bordão (walking stick), musical instrument and their friends and be very joyful and it starts at Sítio do Lombo, Ponta do Pargo at 14.00. Alternatively, you can travel by bus from Fajã da Ovelha to Paul and meet the group at Ribeira das Galinhas. Return bus to the Sítio do Lombo leaves at 19.00, run by the County Council. Water, cakes and fruit juices will be distributed during the tour.

Two hundred watched the Cantar os Reis. The rain did not stop attendance at this initiative yesterday afternoon, organized by the Casa do Povo da Camacha. It is the first time a tent has had to be used due to heavy rain, erected in the Largo da Achada by Santa Cruz Council. Folklore groups from Camacha and Santo da Serra took part. They will still keep the tradition of singing at people’s homes during the night of the 5 – 6 January.

And from the Jornal da Madeira – North of the island revives the tradition. Last Saturday night, the Youth Group of the Parish along with the Casa do Povo de São Roque do Faial maintained the tradition of "Cantar os Reis" (Singing of the Kings) at houses in the parish. This tradition has resumed after for almost a decade, it was in danger of being lost forever in that area and had practically not occurred in the northern parishes. Since then, several parishes have heard the sound of the "Cantar dos Reis". This initiative is nurtured by the people of the parish who welcome young people and offer sweet confectionery left over from Christmas, like bolo or broas de mel accompanied by local wine or liqueur, abundant during the holiday festivities. The visits began in the late afternoon. The group sang the Romagem de Natal and then went to the residence of Father João Mendonça, situated in the village of Porto da Cruz. The music and songs sung were retained in the parish collectively by the older people.

It is recalled that each year there are more houses visited. The "Kings" are received with great joy and are always invited to visit the Lapinha and have a liqueur and sample the traditional broas and cakes of this season. This activity has always been held on the Saturday before the Epifania do Senhor (Epiphany of the Lord), (the day the Church celebrates the Dia de Reis, second Sunday after Christmas). The fact that this initiative falls on a Saturday makes it possible for young people, mostly students, to participate since the visits last into the night.

This year despite the weather, the group of players and singers took a tour of the parish covering homes from the lower part up to higher sites. "A curiosity of our region is that one of the ‘Kings can carry’ the Menino Jesus to people for kissing," said Heliodoro Dória from the local Casa do Povo, stating that "the visits ended only at two in the morning despite uncertain weather with some rain." After that hour the bells stopped ringing. Note that in addition to singing and music, the group was accompanied by bells in order to be heard in the distance so that people could prepare for the visit. For the president of the Casa do Povo, the main reason for this activity to continue is to "keep alive the traditions of this region and provide moments of conviviality and fellowship among the dozens of people involved." 

Today’s news headlines from the front page of the Diário de Notícias :

Tradition of ‘Cantar os Reis’ livens Madeira – In Curral das Freiras, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, Funchal, and out there somewhere, the coming night is going to warm. I think we have probably covered these stories several times here, so no more from me to be said. But it does seem to me that what I understood was mainly a sort of house-to-house tradition is moving more outdoors into organised events more recently. Am I mistaken?

Today’s main news headline : Lisbon without any pressure delay the Regional Finance Law – The successive resort to technical advice about the various alterations to the LFRA is surely going to ‘red tape’ the conclusion of the process, and the release of funds for which the Regional Government has been campaigning. The PS Socialists say they are not dithering on purpose, but that also they do not exist to serve the requests of the PSD Social Democrats.

The main front page photo today shows a rural / agricultural scene littered with debris resulting from the recent bad weather : 200 farmers have already requested assistance – The Environment Agency has 16 technicians to inspect damage from the bad weather. Up until yesterday afternoon, around 200 farmers had already applied for financial support from the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Natural Resources, from a resource set up to assist citizens with land damaged resulting from the bad weather suffered in the last two weeks of December. Regional Secretary, Manuel António Correia, says that inspections are already underway, so that the farms can be restored, and even improved, as soon as possible. The 16 technicians have not only to evaluate the damage claim, but also verify that it was caused during the most recent bad weather. The funding has been ring-fenced from both Regional and European sources, and can cover between 85 and 100% of eligible expenses.

Wind and waves continue to hinder navigation. The Lobo Marinho did not make the trip and the tanker ‘Madeiro’ unloads its fuel with an ‘eye dropper’.

150 thousand litres of water ‘bail out’ Ponta do Sol. Over 150,000 litres of drinking water have been distributed in just 4 days. The tankers used to provide the water will not result in any additional costs for Ponta do Sol council. Normality is returning to domestic users in Ponta do Sol, as drinking water now flows through household taps.  A week ago around 5,000 people in the district were still without drinking water, due to storm damage to the supply network in Rabaças on 22nd December. The council used it’s own tanker, and one from the fire brigade from Ribeira Brava, to meet demand for drinking water, but as it pays €100,000 a year to the ‘bombeiros’ in support, the service provided will not cost the taxpayers in Ponta do Sol anything extra.

Difficulties of companies in 2009 take a record 89 insolvency cases. The last three months of 2009 confirmed what was already a certainty, that in both the cases of individuals and collectives, all records for Madeira were demolished with 89 insolvency cases through the courts. The last three months were in fact quieter, with just 15 cases, but the year overall saw an increase of 150%.

In sport / football, after what seems a long absence, Marítimo are back on the front page : Marcinho prohibited of entering the club – The Brazilian player has already arrived, but not yet trained. It is claimed that Marcinho has had a virus and he wants to explain that to the president.

Rain and strong winds are remaining in the forecasts, from this afternoon. Tomorrow a slight drop in temperature may result in snow on the highest peaks.

If anyone else can oblige with the translation of any of the ‘blank’ or sparsely filled headlines, or other news stories, here is the link. All contributions much appreciated. 

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If you can, please contribute something Madeira related. A funny story or good or bad experience, a news item, or a story from a Madeira newspaper, a photo or video, a teaser, news of a bargain flight or item in a supermarket. Please help keep this blog going … without user contributions it won’t survive. Please don’t send in automatic translations (like Google translator) without checking them through and correcting them first, thanks.

You can email blog@madeira4u.com with any large contributions and photos / videos.

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Please use the comments here for general chit-chat, or feel free to ask any questions … someone usually has an answer.

(more…)

Today’s Photo Thanks to Eiryl … Porto Santo ferry just docked in Funchal

Madeira … is a Wine with the name of an Island … an Island with the name of a Wine. IVBAM (The Wine, Embroidery and Handicraft Institute of Madeira) has created a 5 minute promotional and historic VIDEO about the Madeira Wine … famous fortified wine made in the Madeira Islands. (info pinched from DON’S BLOG … thanks Don!).

I haven’t come across an ‘audio blog’ before, but maybe someone might one to record something on this site and send me a link. AUDIO BLOG

"In the 1960s and 70s, the beautiful Jane Birkin became famous for carrying her basket around Paris. People would recognize her and Serge Gainsbourg from behind because of her basket". An admirer of Madeira’s wicker work wants to know where one can obtain an identical shopping basket without coming to Madeira. I am very jealous about the number of commenters on this very simple blog. I can’t compete with fashion I guess! A BASKET FROM MADEIRA

"I have sampled the Madeira (a secco), and found it very palatable. There are all sorts of oddities – teapots that don’t pour unless you lift the lid, for example – but then I don’t expect the Portuguese to know how to make tea (or ‘cha’) anyway – and they don’t. They don’t even know how to make a decent latte (in fact they don’t even know what a latte is!)". BLABER’S BLOG A typical t**t, who thinks that because the beverages aren’t to the liking of his typical palate, that the locals haven’t got a clue. I once made tea with UK teabags for around 8 locals, and they thought it was horrible and too strong, and didn’t drink it. The rest of the blog wasn’t really about Madeira, so I wouldn’t bother reading it.

CHRISTMAS 2009 – From the Jornal da Madeira, many thanks to Elaine

Natural pine trees for sale since yesterday in Funchal

There are ten sellers of natural pine trees that, since yesterday, are in front of the Electricity Company of Madeira, to sell Christmas trees and various natural products used to decorate the houses of Madeira. Mr. Diniz, after years of work in this area, is already "the grandfather of the selling of pine trees." He says that it is only women who come to choose, because, at home, "ruled by women."

Mr. Diniz is already the "grandfather" of the selling of natural pine trees in Funchal. Unsure of how many years he has taken advantage of the Christmas season for this business. Since yesterday and until Christmas Eve, the sellers, a total of ten who have licences from the Council, have "everything" that is natural for decorating the house, for sale in front of the Electricity Company of Madeira.

He says he is the grandfather of the area because he is the oldest seller of natural pine trees in Funchal. Despite the "fashion" of artificial pine trees, this seller says there are always those who are loyal to the traditions and, therefore, he remains in business. He does not have an estimate on how many he will sell, because he will cut the pine trees depending on demand. Yesterday, the first day of selling, and by 14.00 hours, he had not sold anything. "This first day has yet to pay for the coffee, " he jokes, confident that up to 24 December, there will be many customers going to that location to buy pine trees or other natural products. He says, normally, it is women who will buy the pine trees, this is not a family task. "Women rule at home!", he laughs.

In his space of three metres, and like other vendors, he has for sale moss, goatlings, straw, logs, alegra-campos, cearinhas, and ears of wheat, for example. "People buy everything," he added, referring to the natural ornaments of the Christmas season. About the hours of selling to the public, Mr. Diniz playfully replies, "will be 48 to 48 hours until 24  December." That is, day and night, the seller will always have to replace the pine trees for sale. He says the price of Christmas trees varies, 20 euros for the cheapest. "The price depends on the size and quality of the pine tree," he added. About the space reserved for them by the Electricity Company of Madeira, Mr. Diniz says that the Council reserves three metres for each of the ten vendors. The licence prices are above 200 euros, of which 50 euros are returned. It is a measure considered ‘fair’ by this merchant. The Council returns that amount if the traders leave the site clean, after the sales period. "It is fair for them and for us," added the seller of pine trees.

Many thanks to Elaine once again for yesterday’s top news stories :

Orange alert. Region is on orange alert ( 2 on a scale of 4) for bad weather – wind and rain, and unstable conditions forecasted until the 20 December. The Lobo Marinho is not making the usual sea connection to Porto Santo today due to 6 metres waves predicted. Some flights cancelled and an incoming London flight diverted to Porto Santo. An earthquake of magnitude 6 on the Richter scale occurred off the south coast of Portugal. It was felt in Portugal and 16 aftershocks recorded. The earthquake was the highest recorded since 1969. It occurred about 100 km off the south coast of Cabo do Sao Vicente in the Algarve. It was felt along the south coast and in Lisbon but no damage reported.

Madeira still holds the fireworks record. The region still holds the ‘Fireworks Display of the World’ record, achieved on 31 December 2006, with the ‘Dance of the Four Seasons’ by Macedo’s Fireworks. The Guinness World Records Institute in London has confirmed to Carlos Macedo that the record still belongs to Madeira, despite the latest attempt by the United Arab Emirates to take the title. They have had three attempts, the most recent on the 2 December 2009 in Abu Dhabi. Macedo’s Fireworks celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and this year’s performance will be viewed in Portugal, Madeira, the Azores and Cape Verde, an expected 700,000 spectators. This is their ninth event since 2000.

‘Rampa das Searinhas’ in Ribeira Seca. In Ribeira Seca, one of the most charismatic parishes of Madeira, they have been sowing searinhas around the grounds of the churchyard and gardens of the local church, fulfilling a centuries-old tradition that the wheat must be sown on the first day of the Missas do Parto. The participants took a handful of searinhas soaked overnight and sang songs alluding to the act while sowing the seeds. They have also been constructing a ‘novenario on an open stage’ called A Song of Life, integrating the light in the lapinha at Bethlehem, people preserving the land and the current world summit addressing climate change. (According to Infopedia, a novenario is a religious book of novenas – prayers). In Machico, the parishioners will have traditional folklore musical entertainment before and after the Missas do Parto. Free soup or hot chocolate will be distributed at different sites corresponding to the prayers, and the Mayor of Machico invites, "If people want to collaborate, they may bring delicacies, cakes and liqueurs. I think it is a good reason for fellowship among all and to encourage the Christmas spirit."

Architects endure the crisis. No major orders in 2009, and 2010 expected to be worse. Remodelling of houses, rehabilitation of buildings and housing projects have been in short supply this year whereas in previous years (2003 – 2004), they had difficulties in meeting large orders from the Regional Government and real estate investors. These projects were often rushed and poorly designed. Present projects are often for the continent, especially as new public works and hotels are not being built in Madeira. The new environmental demands for ‘green’ buildings brings them some work and they hope to survive the downturn. Lawyers are also complaining that the economic crisis is causing them to take on more work in the small claims court, due to a dearth of more lucrative cases. Commercial lawyers are the hardest hit, especially with the reduction in off-shore companies, (tax advice).

‘Conscious adoption’. The association PATA calls for responsibility this Christmas. At Christmas, there is an increase in demand for animals for adoption but it is often not a happy ending. People often act on impulse or to please a child and then regret the decision. The animals are often abandoned when people realise they have a lack of space.

300 students in Operation Road Awareness. 300 school students are participating in this police-led initiative between the hours of 10 – 12 at the Avenida das Comunidades Madeirenses in Funchal. They will raise awareness among drivers that they need to comply with certain safety features, e.g., insurance, lights and tyres. They will hand out a Certificate of a Good Driver. This is part of the educational syllabus, on road safety.

Madeira was the fastest in terms of GDP. In 1995, Madeira had a GDP (Gross Domestic Product) 11% below the national average, in 2008 it was 28% higher than the national average. Madeira was the Portuguese region with the highest increase in GDP between 1995 and 2008. It is now the second richest region in Portugal, with a GDP per capita of 97%, if the EU average is taken as 100%. Lisbon has a GDP per capita of 105% and an income 38% above the national average. The Algarve occupies the third position in national rankings. The North region was the most impoverished area for the last 13 years, having the lowest income per capita.

Giants of Costa Crociere registered in MAR.  The International Shipping Register of Madeira had a historic day yesterday with the registration of three large cruise ships of Costa Crociere, the largest cruise company in Europe and a worldwide giant. Grand Holiday, Grand Voyager and Grand Mistral (photo) were registered here. The registration is important to Madeira, because as well as the 100,000 euros fees paid upon registration, the annual fee is 50,000 euros, and the transport capacity of millions of tourists generates millions of euros of revenue each year that benefit the region, with revenues from VAT on all activities related to the activity of shipping – accommodation and restaurants – and the profits will be subject to IRC (corporation tax).

Porto Moniz debt almost €10 million. Liability of the Municipality of Porto Moniz is around 8.8 million euros. With the 1.1 million the authority is likely to have to return to the Turismo de Portugal for the construction of the Aquarium, the default rises to astronomical numbers given the size of the county. Last year alone, the debt increased 84%. This is the debt left by the previous administration to the present council. The population at the last census was 2,927 (now likely to be smaller), giving a debt per person of 3,000 euros. The majority of revenue is from agriculture and construction. 2010 will be a year of ‘restraint’ with only small works carried out. Suppliers need to be paid and the municipality requires a bank loan to pay them.

Night Markets. São Vicente, Friday 18 December from 21.00. Câmara de Lobos, December 22 from 21.00 at the Mercado do Município de Câmara de Lobos. Theme will be Relive the Christmas Traditions, with musical entertainment and typical Christmas delicacies. The Night Market in Funchal on the 23 December will have 66 spaces reserved for street trading. From the 21 December until Christmas Eve, you can buy fruit and vegetables from the 37 traders in the streets of Boa Viagem and Latino Coelho. Given the increasing number of people at the Night Market, more streets will be closed off from 18.00. All stalls must be dismantled by 6 am on the 24 December. The British School has its carol service tomorrow on Friday 17 December at the Hotel Tivoli at 17.30. Songs will be in Portuguese, French and English. Funds will go towards the education of children in Angola and Mozambique, and the cancer fund in memory of the previous school Director who died of cancer last year.

Madeira can benefit from Faro. Ryanair yesterday announced the opening of 14 new routes from 2010 which will link European cities to Faro. Faro will be linked to Birmingham, Derry, Knock, Denmark, Netherlands, Spain, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Italy. They may add links to Madeira. Announced 500 tickets at 5 euros each for journeys in January.

Solar panels in Caniçal. Machico Council will examine the planned construction of a facility with photovoltaic panels in Caniçal. The project is the responsibility of Nutroton Energy and the site will be in Feiteira. This company has a site in Porto Santo. Work should begin early next year with 27,000 panels installed.

Paul (Paul do Mar) sent this in … many thanks.

From a Ryanair press release: "6 based aircraft and 14 new routes (28 in total) being launched. Ryanair will create over 300 direct jobs and offer over 200 weekly flights to / from Faro in an investment of over $400 million in the airport. Ryanair’s new routes from Faro are to : Billund, Birmingham, Derry, Eindhoven, Kerry, Knock, Madrid, Marseille, Maastricht, Milan (Bergamo), Oslo (Rygge), Paris (Beauvais) and Stockholm (Skavsta). The additions will increase Ryanair’s traffic at Faro to 1.3million p.a. which will sustain 1,300 well paid local jobs in the region." LINK 

Today’s news headlines from the front page of the Diário de Notícias :

Increases inevitable - The price of bread, milk, chicken and pork will rise in 2010. And there are other goods awaiting market developments.

The main front page picture shows some sort of dredging boat at work in Funchal Port : Cleaning the port costs €322 thousand – Dredging starts in January. It aims to increase operational capability  and reduce mistakes, as one might anticipate for next Monday. The port authority APRAM has arranged for Funchal Port to be cleaned by dredging, with work starting on 4th January. APRAM monitors the depth of the water in the areas where ships berth, and have established that the time for a clean-up has arrived. The north terminal was done last year to allow for cruise ships to a depth of 7 metres. The south terminal has not been dredged since 2007, when  it was in preparation for the year end cruise ship visits. 

Today’s main news headline : Complaints every day – The Inspectorate of Economic Activities uncovers four irregularities daily in the food trade. ‘Operation Christmas’ has already caught refusals to exchange gifts. Some traders will only exchange gifts after Christmas period. They are obliged by law to do so at the time of the request as long as the request is made, as long as it is within the specified time and the customer has the receipt. Refunds are only mandatory where the goods are faulty and the retailer is unable to replace them with an equivalent or superior product. Food badly packaged, kept at an incorrect temperature, or even outside it’s expiry date are keeping the IAE team busy, with 3 to 4 infractions detected daily in the audit of stock management in the food trade. The Xmas operation is also looking at pricing, ensuring that the correct price is affixed to the products inspected, often finding that is not the reality.

Valter should keep calm – The former president of Porto Moniz advises the new counsellor not to panic when analysing the accounts of the past [regime?]. The story so far is covered above by Elaine, but now the former president of the câmara, Gabriel Farinha, is telling his successor Valter Correia not to get his knickers in a twist. The response comes after at a recent meeting it was said the administration of former president had been "disastrous". €10 million debt … pocket money for the fine PSD politicians (but only if they can get away with it). 

Today’s sport / football headline : Rúben on high – The creative Madeiran is now coveted by Sporting and FC Porto. Rúben Micael of Nacional is on the shopping list of a number of top clubs. He turned in a fantastic performance on Wednesday night in the Europa League, and scored two goals and set up another, and although he is much sought after by clubs in Portugal, Spain, France, and England, any deal is still some way off.

Just coming through on the radio is the draw for the knock-out stage (last 16) of the Champions League. Porto will play Arsenal.

Madeira on Orange Alert – Rain, wind and rough seas put the region on warning. The weather is going to remain unstable until at least the 20th December. I just remembered that Elaine has already covered this above.

If anyone else can oblige with the translation of any of the ‘blank’ or sparsely filled headlines, or other news stories, here is the link Thank you in anticipation.

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If you can, please contribute something Madeira related. A funny story or good or bad experience, a news item, or a story from a Madeira newspaper, a photo or video, a teaser, news of a bargain flight or item in a supermarket. Please help keep this blog going … without user contributions it won’t survive. Please don’t send in automatic translations (like Google translator) without checking them through and correcting them first, thanks.

You can email blog@madeira4u.com with any large contributions and photos / videos.

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Please use the comments here for general chit-chat, or feel free to ask any questions … someone usually has an answer.

(more…)

Today’s Photo Thanks to Karen  … View from Pico dos Barcelos

It looks very familiar to me Karen, perhaps someone sent in a similar one? Lovely view.

"Funchal is by far among one of the prettiest places we’ve been so far on this cruise. We we docked, we look out over our balcony to see that the sun was shining and all the white buildings with the red roofs were sparkling in the sunlight". Lots of photos, and a bit of mickey taking too. CRUISERS PRIVATE BLOG

The Madeira specialists  have updated or revised their website ATLANTIC HOLIDAYS

"The World Centre of Excellence for Destinations (CED), a World Tourism Organisation (WTO) institution, has assessed the Madeira Islands as a tourist destination based on 15 parameters". I DON’T KNOW WHAT THAT’S ALL ABOUT?

This weekend’s football : Marítimo host Olhanense tomorrow at 4 pm. Nacional make the trip to Leiria on Monday with the kick-off at 8.15 pm. Neither game is televised. The game between Benfica and Académica on Sunday is on RTP at 8.15 pm.

Have a jolly good weekend!

Many thanks to Elaine once again for yesterday’s top news stories :

Lisbon almost forced to give money for the new hospital. The possibility of the State providing capital for the construction of the new Hospital of Madeira is nearer. All because the CDS-PP delivered a draft resolution urging the Government of the Republic to regulate what the Regional Finance Law provides: "The establishment of projects of common interest between the Republic and the Regions." In the document the centrists recall that 30 months after the law is in force, the decree on these projects, which are promoted for strategic or national interest, was not elaborated and approved and impedes the Autonomous Regions to nominate projects and works for this important financial instrument. Following these rules, the Assembly of the Republic asked the opinion of the Regional Government and the Legislative Assembly. Jardim has already decided in favour of a move to proceed with these rules as soon as possible. Apart from having a view applicable to the new Central Hospital of Funchal, the reason behind this initiative of the centrists, the type of project the Regional Government would like to see the State finance is the access to the maritime station at the port of Funchal and the fishing port at Câmara de Lobos. The Regional Government asks for haste in approving the law, so that it enters into force in time for the Regions to obtain funding for projects in the next State Budget. With this political will in Madeira and the support of the opposition in Lisbon, applications for projects of common interest could soon be a reality. The classification of a project as being of community interest is subject to approval by the Government of the Republic and the Regional Government, so the final decision is down to Jose Socrates. Even if the decision is positive, little is known about the conditions of financing by State funding.

Seismic activity of magnitude 3.7 on the Richter scale felt in Madeira and Porto Santo. The Institute of Meteorology noted at 12.05 yesterday, an earthquake of magnitude 3.7 (Richter) with epicentre about 16 kilometres North of the island Deserta Grande. The intensity reached III on the Mercalli scale (from I to XII) and was felt in Machico, Santa Cruz, Caniço, Funchal and Porto Santo. There was no record of any damage and some people asked the authorities for assistance. It was the second episode in less than two months in the same area; on 23 October 2009, 2 km away, activity of magnitude 2.8 Richter or grade II/III Mercalli.

Santa Cruz launches a program for the Christmas period to promote local trade. The Municipality is launching a program from December 9 to January 13, called ‘What is ours is good!’ In an effort to boost local businesses, customers are to be rewarded for buying in the county. For every 10 Euros of purchases, the customer receives a voucher that can be entered in a tombola. The draw will take place on January 16 but the value of the prizes will not be determined until the number of traders taking part is known.

Industrial parks are full. The Business Park in Câmara de Lobos is to build 11 new units due to the high demand from regional businesses. 12 units have just opened and there are 5 in Funchal and 5 in Ponta do Sol opening early next year. By 2011, there will be a total of 50 units. The Government’s strategy has been to create infrastructure and incentives for the regional economy to maintain levels of production and income. The park has been built so that industrial units are not in urban and residential areas, and to provide better technical and working environments.

‘Casa Pretoria’ fraud in Catalonia linked to Madeira. The Casa Pretoria fraud case has its epicentre in Catalonia and is being investigated by a top Spanish judge, Baltazar Garzon. There are links with various tax havens in Andorra, Switzerland, Gibraltar, Portugal and Madeira. The case relates to crimes of conspiracy, money laundering, corruption and falsification of documents to illegally divert European Cohesion Funds. 21 people have been indicted, of which 5 are in custody. Most are businessmen or hold senior positions in Municipalities in Catalonia. Results from investigations into real estate transactions have so far detected crimes in three municipalities to the sum of 44.4 million Euros. A member of the Socialist Party of Catalonia, Luis Garcia, was the instigator of the fraud. A business close to him was awarded a development project by municipalities involved in the fraud. The money received for favours was laundered through tax havens. Money invested in tax havens was used to purchase land which was subsequently reclassified through a network of middlemen and commissioning agents.

Promoting tourism occurs without any money. Promoting tourism affected by default of 2 million. Turismo de Portugal has not transferred 800,000 Euros and 1.2 million has not been transferred from the Regional Budget to the Association of Promotion of Madeira. Out of a budget of 5 million, this is a shortfall of 40% with less than 25 days until the end of the year, resulting in defaulting. With the 4 + 1 + 1 rule: for every 1 euro private funding, add 1 euro from the regional budget and 4 Euros from Turismo de Portugal. Turismo de Portugal refused to transfer money without regional authorities doing so, and is in the process of settling the payment of the remaining 30%. This is causing distrust and contracts amended by some operators. There is unease because the Regional Government has ended the extraordinary boost in funding and although the Regional Secretary of Tourism has an increase in budget, the Promotional Association will have a 2.3% cut in funding. In addition, there is uncertainty about the Government investing in emerging markets rather than the tradition markets of the United Kingdom, Germany and France which represent 47.8% of the tourists.

Carlos César says the Azores have not yet decided to support the proposal of Madeira. The President of the Regional Government of the Azores declined today to reveal its position on the proposed revision of the Regional Finance Law presented by Madeira, as they are still evaluating the document. During the election campaign for parliamentary elections, Carlos César repeatedly supported the Azores being positively discriminated against in relation to Madeira, arguing that it is an archipelago of nine islands, which have different needs than one that has only two islands in close proximity. The president of the regional executive, who is also the leader of the PS – Azores, criticized the actions of the opposition parties on the continent as they are not in government. "The opposition says the Government has not realized that it does not have an absolute majority in the Assembly of the Republic, but the truth is that the opposition does not yet understand that it is not in government."

Tourism honours German couple. The German couple, Egon and Astrid Roes have visited 75 times. They received a certificate, bouquet of flowers and a toast of Madeira Wine. Astrid Roes said he liked much of the island and when people asked why they favoured the island, he said they liked to experiment, and the island had always something to find, even after dozen of trips.

VII Meeting of the Africans People. 7 December in the Municipal Gardens, Funchal at 20.00. Music, dancing and food. There is a small African community in the region, only about 300 Africans.

Madeira reaches EU target for education. Madeira has managed to achieve some of the goals set by the EU for the level of education for 2010, others are still being achieved. 100% of children under 5 years are in pre-school education, 87.2% attendance at school and 100% at Basic Education are learning English. The drop-out rate of 12% still needs working on. Portuguese and Mathematics results are good at year 4 but decrease at year 6 and again at year 9.

Corruption in the police? Commissioner Roberto Fernandes is the commander of the police in Funchal and also leads the Public Relations Department of the Regional Command. But his past is overshadowing his career. When sub-commissioner of Câmara de Lobos in 2004, there were two incidents involving members of his family where there are allegations of falsification of the evidence. Based on an anonymous letter, alleging abuse of power, falsification and denial of justice, the Public Ministry began an investigation. This is awaiting a court hearing. His name is not ratified in the Official Gazette, possibly due to the pending court case.

The news headlines from today’s front page of the Diário de Notícias :

‘Over the top’  operation at the arrival of Lobo Marinho – PSP, GNR, SEF and public prosecutors (?) searched cars and seized drugs yesterday evening on Porto Santo. The police, national guard, border and immigration control (amongst others) got wind that something was up, and were waiting for the Porto Santo ferry as it landed at the golden island yesterday. Searches were carried out, focused on the 37 cars that were being transported, and drugs were seized. The Diário says that it was waiting for an official statement on the matter and had no more details when going to press.

Funchal Council want the Madeira Government to pay ‘freebies’ of the hotels – Touristic usefulness in question. Under regional laws new constructions (particularly hotels in Funchal) can be exempted from paying council tax, at the decision of the local authority, that being the Câmara Municipal of Funchal (CMF). A great incentive for attracting investments in tourism, and great business for those investors, but of course it all leaves a gaping hole in the CMF coffers, a hole that has to be filled with local taxes from other IMI payers in Funchal. So some bright spark in CMF proposed that these losses should be paid for by the government of Madeira, and this was voted on and accepted in a council meeting. So now CMF will be the ones who approve all plans for new ‘touristic’ investments, and the ones who give the discretionary exemption of IMI taxes, and then ask the government for reimbursement from public funds, at the cost of all the taxpayers of Madeira. Good business for Funchal for sure.

Riu ‘chain’ starts in Brazil through the hand of the Madeiran Estêvão Neves. This is a hotel chain that has decided to enter the Brazilian market, thanks to a Madeiran businessman. A bit out of scope for this blog me thinks.

Today’s top news story : Jardim switches budget of Sócrates for €100 million – The PSD national is in tune with the strategy of the president of Madeira : The ‘orange benches’ guarantee the approval of the redistributive budget if there is a guarantee that the document contemplates increased debt capacity for the region. No time for me today to do this top story today, but if someone else is willing to translate, here is the LINK 

Rubbish piles degrade the roads of Porto Moniz – cans, paper, plastic, iron and even mattresses thrown on the public highways, a damaging scenario for the landscape in the district. The ‘population’ is breaking the law by dumping rubbish in areas where they shouldn’t be. An action that prejudices the attempts to attract more tourists to the area. As well as the rubbish already mentioned, there are washing machines and chairs, just dumped on the roadsides. The president of the council of Porto Moniz said he had no knowledge of such ‘tips’, but said that as soon as he was made aware he would have the areas cleaned up, and try and identify the offenders. What a disgrace! There are several photos, one even worse than this one. Some tourists will find this all quite attractive of course, more specifically the four legged disease carrying hairy kind.

… and of course the big football story : Draw pretty unfriendly for the World Cup – Brazil, Ivory Coast and North Korea. These teams will be the opponents of Portugal in the 2010 World Cup, that starts in June in South Africa. The draw, full of stars, decided that we play in Port Elizabeth, Cape Town and Durban. You heard it first on yesterday’s blog comments, with live coverage of Portugal’s fate, probably first on the internet worldwide. But what a contrived lottery it was, they might as well of picked out the four semi-finalists and not bother with the rest. And yes it was full of stars, if you can count that idiot Beckham. This is what a reporter for the UK Daily Telegraph said : 

"Seriously, what is it about David Beckham? Not only did he steal the show before the 2010 World Cup draw in Cape Town, he got a ticket onto the main stage, a kiss from Charlize Theron, and then stood there smirking … they clearly love him more than ever. Becks may look like a lesbian barmaid with his new half-mowed haircut, but put him in a room with suits and cameras and strange things happen".

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If you can, please contribute something Madeira related. A funny story or good or bad experience, a news item, or a story from a Madeira newspaper, a photo or video, a teaser, news of a bargain flight or item in a supermarket. Please help keep this blog going … without user contributions it won’t survive. Please don’t send in automatic translations (like Google translator) without checking them through and correcting them first, thanks.

You can email blog@madeira4u.com with any large contributions and photos / videos.

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Please use the comments here for general chit-chat, or feel free to ask any questions … someone usually has an answer.

(more…)

Today’s Photo Thanks to Eiryl … Porto Santo ferry docked in Funchal

In yesterday’s Portugal Cup 4th round football matches, mixed results for our lads. União (Madeira) lost in a penalty shootout away to Mafra. The Mafra team came onto the pitch wearing protective masks as a protest, after attempts to postpone the game, because of squad members with Gripe A swine flu, were rejected.

Camacha however march on onto the next round, after beating Vigor e Mocidade by 1 – 0 in their home game. They should have won easily as the opponents were from series D in the third division.

Nacional struggled against Fátima in Funchal, with no goals in the actual game, but eventually qualified for the next round after winning a penalty shootout 4 – 3.

Elaine asked me to post this. I am clearly not having much luck in attracting sufficient help, so I really hope Elaine has more success :

WARNING BELLS ARE RINGING.

Der and myself are desperate for help. We are both taking far too much time on the blog, more than you would think (or I dare to admit). People really need to start sending Der articles or this blog will finish for good. We are both fighting hard to keep it going. Please don’t let everyone down by thinking your help isn’t needed or that your article won’t be interesting. Even a small contribution, regularly or otherwise, would help and encourage others. It would take some of the pressure off us both. The more diverse, the more interesting it could get for everyone.

Suggestions of how people can help:

Take a section of the online Diário. Front page, Madeira, Economy, Politics, Culture. I use Google translation toolbar, and other online translators are available.

Other newspapers online. Jornal da Madeira, Diário Cidade.

Tourism Board site. They will send you an email every month with details (in English). Also DRAC site has a monthly Cultural Agenda in English.

Scan newspapers and sites for articles about the island, tourist reviews and blogs.

Any travel articles. Ports, airports, organized tours, hotels.

Any experiences about your days out here, e.g. exhibitions, restaurants, cafes, bars, tours, museums, walks, places visited.

Local food with recipes and wine tasting.

Nature articles. Plants, birds, animals, environment, parks.

Local customs and culture.

Festivals and cultural events – coming or visited.

News and activities where you live, if on the island.

Shopping and offers.

Nautical events and special sports events.

Organisations and their events.

Any suggestions welcome.

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Elaine had very kindly again provided yesterday’s top news stories :

Enterprises, employment and tourism have money. Strengthening tourism promotion, incentives to businesses and jobs and greater investment in culture depends largely on ….. state.  At the end of the year, Madeira will have the largest direct debt in the history of the Region. For the bank loan guarantees, the Government has commitments in the order of 1,900 million Euros. Ventura Garces, the Regional Secretary of Planning and Finance will deliver tomorrow to the President of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira the proposed budget for 2010. As normal, 40% of expenditure is for public investment to secure employment through public works and to prevent people becoming dependent on meagre state benefits. Little is known of this year’s proposals. Tax revenue is expected to drop significantly next year so they are optimistic that the State will transfer €70 million early on. The European Union has provided a transfer of €75 million. The Regional revenue (tax etc) and transfers from the State and the EU will cover 86% of expenditure, so a loan is required for the remainder. Garces would not admit to the amount which he is asking the State to agree but it is thought to be more than €200 million, enough to repay the loan and secure payment to suppliers. Education and Health account for 73% of expenditure and Garces is worried about the spiralling costs of the departments, institutes and autonomous funds which represent 28% of total expenditure, and these levels could be cut. Incentives to business will cost €20 million and tourism will have an increase of almost one million Euros for promotion. In the next three years, €362 million will have to be repaid to banks, €52 million next year. The Government owes more than €150 million to suppliers, backed with loans amounting to €1,174 million. The Regional Government debt is expected to rise to €784.9 million by the end of this year, the highest value in history. This is justified by the debt being 17% GDP and the EU allowing up to 60% GDP or a debt limit of €2,760 million Euros. Jardim hopes to save tens of millions by his recent cuts.

Rocks continue to fall. The rock fall between Ribeira Brava and Tabua continues, along a section that has been sealed off to the public for almost two years.

Bad weather boosts road casualties. The number of accidents increased this week with rain and excessive speed for the conditions. There were 61 accidents that caused 19 minor injuries, compared with 45 accidents and 21 injuries during the previous week. Funchal (26 accidents, 8 injured), Santa Cruz (13 accidents, 3 injured), Câmara de Lobos (9 accidents, 3 injured). Friday was the worst day, 5 people taken to hospital and 15 accidents. The via rápida, where there are an average of 11 accidents per week, had the most accidents with 28 last week resulting in minor injuries to 6 people.

UMajuda helps schools in Achada and Rochão. This University organisation collects donations, especially for the younger age group. They have distributed dictionaries, children’s books, encyclopaedias, maps, video tapes, games and sports equipment to the schools in Rochão and Achada, as elsewhere in the region during previous years. The university musical groups ‘tunas’ have also visited the schools. They have also helped the elderly and the Red Cross and SPAD.

Support for the outermost regions are possible. One of the MEPs said that permanent funding for the outermost regions is not guaranteed from 2013, but it is possible under the Community Support Framework. He said that with the signing of the Lisbon Treaty, member states have not lost their sovereignty under a centralized Europe, as there are sometimes opt-outs if they think the matter should be debated nationally. Risks are that some countries will dominate and defend their own interests first. Costs will increase with an increase in the number of posts.

Official websites of Government and councils lack maintenance. Lack of update. Regional statistics are out of date, some by two or three years. Most councils have not updated details about council members since the elections. Good examples are Câmara de Lobos, Porto Santo, Machico and Santa Cruz.

Bandolin Christmas Concert. December 12 at Teatro Baltazar Dias, Funchal, cost 5 Euros.

Lobo Marinho delayed due to power failure. An electrical failure late on Sunday night affected the electrical connections. The fault was detected at 8 am when the ferry was preparing to leave Funchal and delayed the departure. The electrical failure on the bridge and engine room made it impossible to leave the port of Funchal so a tug had to intervene at about 9.15 am. The failure did not affect the speed of the ship but it had to reduce speed to provide time for the tug to reach Porto Santo. The route normally takes 2 hours 10 minutes and took around 5 hours. The captain said the return journey should not be affected as tugs would be ready both at Porto Santo and at Funchal. The ship had about 200 passengers on board.

Government reinforces consular assistance in South Africa. Portuguese Government will reinforce assistance during the World Cup next year. They will also produce a brochure with local contact numbers for emergency assistance.

Builders guarantees on new properties provide most complaints. In 2008, the Office of Consumer Protection in Madeira received 305 requests for assistance in this area, and this year the number has already reached 289. For a period of five years, owners of new properties should be able to have any defects repaired by the builder. In reality, it is difficult to get the repair corrected and the person often has to go to court or pay themselves. They often find the builder has gone out of business or disappeared. Legal action has to be taken within three years of the complaint.

AIDS prevention. Madeira, like other European countries, faces serious problems that affect many young people, like drinking, smoking, drug addiction, sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS. This was stated at the conference yesterday, ‘Youth Without Risk’. Portugal has a staggering number of infected people, especially related to teenage pregnancy. Young people are educated about the transmission of AIDS but still do not use protection.

Burglaries in Barreiros. Burglaries  at the apartments Barreiros Golden and Stadium in Barreiros over the past two days have resulted in doors being broken down and around 8,000 Euros of gold and cash stolen. These occurred last Tuesday and Wednesday and the police have increased patrols.

Failure of lifts in apartment blocks force tenants to climb 150 stairs. Apartment blocks affected are Varzea Park in São Martinho and Caminho do Amparo, block A 1 North. The top flats on the ninth floor are 150 stairs up. Some older people refuse to leave the flats and this has occurred for two months now.

The ‘Madeira’ in documentary. Alzirino Henriques has produced a DVD about the ship ‘Madeira’ which used to transport goods and passengers between Madeira and Porto Santo. Its sinking on 21 October 2000 has led to its use as an artificial reef and this 30 minute video demonstrates the beauty of the flora and fauna which have colonised it. The video is in both Portuguese and English and the producer is Eduardo Costa, who has produced many local videos. It costs 15 Euros and can be purchased from FNAC, the Porto Santo Line and Tourism posts.

Sue very kindly sent in these news stories, many thanks …

The funeral of cabo Telo was held in the presence of hundreds of people – "Now he is in his own country". Hundreds of people gathered yesterday at the church of Paul do Mar for the last farewell to the first cabo (corporal) Gabriel Telo, killed in action 36 years ago in Guinea Bissau. The funeral closes a case of a group of soldiers, of whom two were from Madeira – the cabo and the soldier Telo João Nunes Ferreira. The process of exhumation and repatriation of the bodies to Portugal took about three years. The Union of the paratroopers was the body who started this rescue – being three elements of this special force among the 11 corpses – which now ends with this funeral, the last of the bodies were removed from Guidaje in Guinea Bissau. Now closed, in fact, a course whose objective was to bring home the bodies that had been buried in that cemetery campaign in Guinea, explained the president of the Parachute Regiment, General Avelar de Sousa, who yesterday attended the ceremony. Several entities had joined forces for the task to make this last tribute to the soldier, who died on May 25, 1973 (not 1963 as incorrectly written yesterday). Miguel Mendonça, chairman of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira, in the morning put a wreath at the urn of the soldier, while still at the monument to the Madeira overseas soldier. A little later, in Paul do Mar, the district where  the cabo was born, Monteiro Diniz attended the funeral, ex-Representative of the Republic to Madeira, also Brazão de Castro, regional secretary, and Manuel Baeta, Mayor of Calheta, among other personalities. The process of exhumation and repatriation of the bones of cabo Telo opened a wound in the family that they had spent decades trying to heal. Mother, Flora Telo, never gave up so that the memory of the son would not be forgotten. During the last 36 years she insistently repeated stories about Gabriel, highlighting the qualities of this young man, who was sacristan in the church, the same church that hosted the final farewell ceremony. Yesterday, the upset prevented Flora Telo from saying what that final moment meant for her. The day before, however, she confessed that she still felt "a great longing for my son." And looked towards the sky and called to Gabriel. "He was a good dear son, as a child" and he helped in the church, she recalled. The arrival of the remains opened wounds of the past in the family, but, despite the moments of pain and anxiety, no one regrets the decision. Yesterday, Gabriela Telo, his sister two years younger, said one feels ’satisfied’ that Gabriel was now "closer" to the family. The youngest of the sisters, said she felt "a mixture of emotions that were impossible to describe." Still, she said that at that very moment, outside the cemetery, she felt "a joy, because he is now at home. These last days have been a difficult time, with resentment, but now that he is here in our cemetery in his country, it is now a relief." With the funeral of cabo Telo "we have closed, in fact, a path with the objective  to bring back the bodies that had been buried in that campaign cemetery in Guinea", said the president of the Parachute Regiment, General Avelar de Sousa, who yesterday attended the farewell ceremony of the soldier from Madeira, who died 36 years ago in Guinea Bissau.

Regional success against smoking in national press. At present, about 45 percent successfully quit smoking with smoking cessation consultations from the Health Centre of Bom Jesus. Compared to internationally, the success average here is 35 percentage points higher. Having just celebrated "No Smoking Day", which leads people to seek consultation  at the Health Centre of Bom Jesus. Ermelinda Alves said there are several reasons. Some people, because they became aware that tobacco is bad for their health, causing heart and lung disease, and that it is the cause of many cancers, and therefore making the decision to quit. One of the reasons that have more recently led to consultations relates to the economic crisis, where people cannot afford to smoke and come here to seek help to quit. There are also younger people who have young children who, at school, hear their teacher says it’s bad for health, and then the children ask their parents to quit and come to visit. But, of course, that success will be achieved when the smoker makes that decision, and has a strong motivation to quit smoking.

Mini-series will be shot in RAM. After the success of the TV series "Flor do Mar", Madeira will return this year to be the scene of another project of the TV company TVI. After the series (Flower of the Sea) that "exceeded expectations" in terms of growth in the number of tourists from Portugal visiting Madeira, the regional secretary for Tourism and Transport, said that the private channel is preparing a new Portuguese mini-series to present to their viewers in the first quarter of next year. Filming will take place in Madeira in December. "The plot is funny, but I will not reveal", said Conceição Estudante, explaining that the purpose of not wanting to remove the mystery around this new project is to ensure it commands a good audience in Portugal. The exact date when the mini-series will go on air also remains unknown.

Cakes, cakes, liqueurs and pork – In times gone by all these products were made at home and since the beginning of December there was a great hubbub, especially from the ladies in the preparation of these delicacies. Recipes for cakes and liqueurs were often kept in the minds of people and passed on to subsequent generations. A tradition that has persisted over many generations was the so-called "Night of bread." At a time when there were few existing bakeries in Madeira and Porto Santo, families gathered on the evening of 23rd December to bake the bread in the oven. The hard work was done with joy and often the sound of typical melodies of Madeira. Even today in some parishes, especially in the city of Funchal this tradition is maintained. The meat of the pig that was killed on the 8th of December, or the next few days after that date, provided an enormous amount of different recipes.

When the "Feast" had another flavour. Maria Fernandes 78 years clearly remembers the "Feast" and at times it is with some nostalgia that she refers to the many activities taking place in the build up to Christmas. "In the past it seemed that time was not moving. We waited with anxiety the arrival of December to experience the festival. And since there were many difficulties times, Christmas was a very special time because meals were better, we had cocoa and cheese, which during the other months of the year were a luxury. "Also important was the day the pig was killed. The entertainment around the event was varied" Maria Fernandes recalled. "On the eve of that day I almost could not sleep thinking about the task the next day. From early morning until the night I had so much to do with helping "Marchant" (the man who kills the pig), to prepare the various ingredients with the meat of the pig, the innards, blood and lard. And as it was a day of entertainment, I was always looking to play some pranks such as asking someone to go and get oil to lubricate the saw to cut the pork, or  placing of the nails in the pockets of some of the more intoxicated people. And throughout the day no one went hungry or thirsty, with coffee with brandy drunk early in the morning, and not forgetting the dry red wine". These traditional activities of yesteryear are still re-created in the present day by some cultural associations of the region. And in some rural parishes of Madeira, there are those who keep their Christmas with an authentic flavour.

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