Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

Content in this newsletter blog site comes from its Editor, Sponsors & Supporters (Holiday Fundraiser Donors). Submissions are subject to editing and posting at the Editor’s discretion. If I don’t want to post something, I won’t, and I do not owe you an explanation. Content from other sources is credited. The Editor is Naythan, aka DoctorLaptop. 

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Please share DigameXtra with your friends: Simply copy & paste this link into an email or message and send it to all your friends. https://digamextra.com/
Your contacts can read DigameXtra on the website without a subscription. They may also subscribe for free to receive daily issues by email. Subscribers must be a “DigameXtra Donor” of at least €20 in the current year to make posts. Refer to the submission rules page for more info regarding how to make donations & post submissions: https://digamextra.com/about/

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ANNUAL HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER

 I can only produce DigameXtra with the financial support of my readers. Once a year, during the year end holidays, I do an 8 week fundraiser to help pay production expenses throughout the whole year. This year’s goal is to receive donations from 4% of subscribers. This “4% Club” finances DigameXtra for the 96% group that don’t donate. Which group will you belong to? The generosity of the 4% Club members is greatly appreciated. 

Just like your morning coffee,
what would you do
without your morning DigameXtra?

– Holiday Donation Info, 2 Methods –

DigameXtra subscribers must donate at least €20 (39 cents per week) to gain annual submission posting privileges.

#1. You may drop cash donations off in person and say hello, by appointment, or place them in my mailbox beside my door anytime. Please be sure to include your name on the envelope so I can put you on the list of subscribers with submission posting privileges for 2025-2026! Due to health reasons, unannounced drop-ins are inconvenient for me. But if I am expecting you, no problem! My mailbox has the name HARRIS on it. Email me for map and directions. Cash donations are strongly preferred. 
#2. Alternatively, you may send me an Amazon ES (Spain) “eGift card” by email. You need to have an Amazon.es account. The only info you need is my email address and your name (the sender’s name). Remember, this is an “eGift card” you buy that Amazon.es emails directly to me, don’t buy a plain “gift card”. Use the link provided below to access the “eGift card” purchase page. 
PLEASE DO NOT SEND AMAZON UK eGIFT CARDS. NO BANK TRANSFERS OR PAYMENT APPS.
Here is the Amazon.es eGift Card Link, (NOTE: YOU CAN CHOOSE ANY AMOUNT YOU LIKE ON THE FORM, THE DEFAULT IS €60):
https://www.amazon.es/Cheques-Regalo-Amazon-es-mail-Amazon/dp/B07SS5PFJK/?th=1&gpo=60
On the eGift card purchase form, enter the DigameXtra email as the recipient, as shown below in Spanish and with English translation.
Para/For : digamextra@protonmail.com

 

Please do not ask me about gaining posting privileges by making small donations of under €20, several times a year. Several people promised to do that for each of the last two annual fundraisers, and not a single one followed up.

Total Donations Received As Of Today: 62

Target, 4% of subscribers = 200 donations

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DigameXtra Holiday Schedule: DigameXtra will be closed for these holidays. Posts scheduled for these days will be posted the day before, so time your submissions appropriately.
– Thursday & Friday, 25 & 26 Dec, Christmas break. (25 Dec is a Spanish Public Holiday)
– Thursday & Friday, 1 & 2 Jan 2026, New Years break. (1 Jan, 2026 is a Spanish Public Holiday)
– Tuesday, 6 Jan 2026, Epiphany (Spanish Public Holiday)

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WHAT’S ON

Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra! 

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PHOENIX CLUB

Phoenix Club: The Phoenix Social Club is open to all nationalities but the lingua franca is English. 
We offer an opportunity to make friends, help each other & share information but primarily to have fun in a friendly and inclusive association. You do not have to be a member to join us on our trips. 
Our handmade greetings cards are for sale weekly with all proceeds to the Red Cross.  We would be happy to accept any greeting cards you may have to re-cycle into fantastic cards.
We meet every Thursday between 12 and 2 pm at Chine in Caleta, just off the coast road to/from Algarrobo.
***Trips/Events***
~All trips/events include a driver’s gratuity~
January 2026
– 7th – Hit the sales at La Canada. 20€pp
For information call Gail on 951067723 / 626370695 (Whatsapp) email phoenixsocialclub@yahoo.co.uk. 
Check out our FB page too. 
We are DigameXtra sponsors and our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.

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Competa Christmas Concert: Friday, 26. Dec.
Iglesia nuestra senora de la Asuncion
[Church of Our Lady of the Assumption]
No start time provided on their poster or website.
Check for updates here: https://turismocompeta.com/es/agenda/eventodetalle/230/-/concierto-de-navidad-bandas-de-musica 

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Three Monkeys Cafe, in Torrox Costa: We are closed for our holiday until 17 January, 2026. See you next year. Merry Christmas! Tel: +34 650 94 41 38

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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/

Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details

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NOTICE!
Submissions for posting in sections below
must be signed like this or they will be returned !!!
Sender’s First Name / Nearest Town
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SERVICES WANTED / OFFERED

Check the DigameXtra Sponsor’s list whenever you need a service. By using these services you are helping support DigameXtra.

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HANNINGTONS KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Hanningtons Kitchens and Bathrooms: We have been installing kitchens and bathrooms here on the Costa for 13 years. We pride ourselves on our professionalism, highest standards of work and customer service.
Whether you are thinking of updating an existing kitchen or bathroom, or whether you wish to create the kitchen or bathroom you have always dreamed of, we are here for you, every step of the way.
With an unrivalled knowledge of the best local materials and suppliers we are able to work to all tastes and budgets.
Our full range of services includes:
– Installations and Refurbs
– Wall & Floor tiling
– Full range of Plumbing work including radiators and underfloor heating
– Solar Installation
– Design & planning ideas to get the look you are after
– Electrical works
– Alter / Install walls, dropped ceilings and hang doors
– Plastering, woodwork and floor levelling
Visit our FB page on the link below to be inspired
https://www.facebook.com/hanningtons.kitchens.and.bathrooms/
Call us : 669 665 156
Email us: hanningtons.bathrooms@gmail.com ; Our contact details can be found in the Sponsor’s Section at the bottom of every issue. 

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REDWELL INFRARED HEATING SYSTEMS

Redwell Infrared Heaters for Inside
Manufacturer warranty 10 years
ONLY products from Germany and Austria
Product Range:
– Wall and ceiling infrared heaters
Mirror, Pictures, Glass, white & color
– Mobile Heaters, free standing on wheels
– Under table Heaters
– Analog & Digital Controlling Systems, Thermostats Systems
– LED Light Frames, 2 year warranty
For 20 years we have supported clients in Spain with the highest quality Infrared Heating Systems available on the market. 
Request information without any obligation.
Location:
Axarquia Service-Center, Postbox 028
Dipl.-Ing. Svend Scharler
29793 Torrox Park, Malaga
E-mail: sscharler@gmx.de Web: https://redwell.com/
Office: 952539742 ; Mobil: 606423869

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MANDY’S PAINTBOX

Mandy’s Paintbox: Painter for 34 years in Nerja area. NEW JOB PHOTOS.
Painting work undertaken. Inside and outside, large or small. Furniture painted or sprayed. Kitchens, cabinets, wardrobes doors any colour any surface. Check out the before and after photos, all the furniture was spray painted. Call for advice. WhatsApp 680739577
Email: josiahamanda@gmail.com
My contact details can be found in the Sponsor’s Section at the bottom of every issue. Here are “before” (left) and “after” (right) pics from my latest job.

  

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BUY / SELL / TRADE / RENT / WANTED

Click on pics to enlarge

How to post more photos than the rules allow – use collages. The limit is one pic per item/event. You can combine several of your photos into a 
single collage photo by using this free online collage creation tool. It’s very easy to use, give it a try! https://www.photocollage.com/

Are you still dealing with scammers on Fakebook Marketplace?
Sell your items here, to locals, for cash, without the shenanigans.

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BLUCEE REAL ESTATE

BluCee Real Estate – Your Property Experts in Southern Spain:
It’s been a very busy October, and November is proving just as active, with many reservations agreed and more in the pipeline.
We’re already planning ahead for 2026! In January, some of the BluCee team will be in Belfast and Dublin; in February, we’ll be back at A Place in the Sun Live in Manchester; and in March, we’ll be heading to the United States.
We currently have both Spanish and international clients looking for properties in our area.
If you’re thinking of selling, please contact us — we’ll arrange an appointment for a free, honest property valuation. No pressure, just professional advice.
Email: info@blucee.com ; Web: http://www.blucee.com/
WhatsApp: +34 711 04 27 27
Office: +34 951 55 38 90
Visit us: Calle Timón 11b, Torre del Mar, 29738, Málaga
BluCee Real Estate – Helping You Sell with Confidence
Proud sponsors of DigameXtra – our contact details can be seen everyday in the Sponsor’s Section. 

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AXARQUIA SILVER & GOLD TRADE

Axarquia Silver & Gold Trade– Unique Handcrafted Coin Rings & Much More: The Holiday Season Is Coming– Order Your Custom Gifts Now To Ensure Delivery Before Christmas!
***Services Offered***
– Buying all kind of Silver and Gold:
Silver coins and Gold coins, bullions and bars.
Jewellery and cutlery (no collector prices!).
– Selling handcrafted Coin Rings and Jewellery: Handcrafted rings, made from silver or gold.
There are many options possible– I will handcraft your individual silver or gold ring. Choose, for example: a coin from your year of birth; a custom present for a friend; choose a JFK ½ Dollar coin; or a $1 Dollar coin from 1921 is available. I have silver from Spain; 100 Pesetas coins from 1966 for something special; and many more. You can get it shiny or black or a mix. I look forward to creating something very special for you. You want big sizes for men? No problem!
– General Metals Markets Information:
I am trading now more than 10 years in physical silver and gold. If you are interested, make an appointment.
– Make an appointment by mail or phone.
Mail: sscharler@gmx.de
Call Svend Scharler: +34-606423869
I have my office and meeting point at the Axarquia Service Centre, local 101, 29793 Torrox Park.

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CAMPO AGAVE GLAMPING 

For sale- good quality, reduced prices: 
– glass top table, iron frame, diameter 80 cm. Price €70
– sofa bed, black iron frame, IKEA, 200×80/160, 1 mattress incl. €80
– sewing machine table vintage, wood, iron frame, 80x65x75H: €120
Contact Wouter in Sayalonga +34 656561697 / info@campoagave.es / https://campoagave.es/en/sale/ 

   

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RECOMMENDATIONS & REQUESTS

When making a recommendation always include the phone number or website of the biz, service, etc., so readers can reach them. Note: I can’t post third party email addresses.

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Christmas Night Dinner, Thursday 25/12: Anyone interested in joining some Digamites for a Christmas “Orphan’s Supper”? Nothing formal, just place to go for those of us without local family affairs to attend. It will be at the Greek Casita, BLK 79, Torrox Costa. From 7pm. They are one of the few places that will be open along the Paseo Maritimo. Email me this week if you are interested. If enough people respond I will reserve tables, and send you an update/confirmation. Grilled octopus, Moussaka & tzatziki plate for me! After supper, if they are open, a nightcap or 3 at the smoker friendly enclosed terrace bar next door, Pablo’s Bar. -Ed. 

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NEW FEATURE – Readers asked for it, so here it is. Use it or lose it!

READER’S SOAPBOX

Posts in this section are reader submissions. Being posted is not an indication of endorsement by your Editor or the DigameXtra sponsors, it’s simply the opinion of the reader who submits it. 

Have your say: Submit up to 200 words. Keep it civil– personal opinions & reasonable criticism are fine, but name calling & verbal attacks are not. I must respect the EU Internet anti-defamation laws in what gets posted. You may include supporting webpage links to add validity to your post. You may include your first name and location, but simply signing with your initials is sufficient, but they must be the initials of the name of the sending email account. I won’t post your email address unless you specifically ask me to. 

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NEWS & ARTICLES

(Click the link to read the full article) 
{ Translations by www.DeepL.com/Translator }

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News Note: Very little local news over this weekend. Today I offer a few longer articles I normally wouldn’t have space for. -Ed.

SPAIN

The latest figures reveal foreigners commit five times more rapes and four times more homicides than Spaniards: {Translation}
– Although Spain maintains a homicide rate of only 0.6 to 0.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, this calm is increasingly fragile. The latest report by the CEU-CEFAS Demographic Observatory analysed by LA GACETA, using official data from the National Statistics Institute, the Ministry of the Interior and the General Council of the Judiciary, shows a reality that can no longer be concealed. Foreign nationals, especially Africans, 70 percent of whom are Moroccan, and Americans (North & South America), 90 percent of whom are Hispanic, are overwhelmingly over-represented in the most serious crimes. In addition, their crime rates are several times higher than those of Spaniards.
– Completed homicides stand at around 300 a year, but attempted homicides have surged, from 836 in 2019 to 1,507 in 2023. When examining who commits these crimes, the difference is stark. For every 100,000 men aged 18 to 70, the rate of those convicted of homicide or attempted homicide is 2.1 among Spaniards, but rises to 8.7 among Africans and 8.4 among Americans, more than four times higher. In lethal gender-based violence, the annual average is 2.4 homicides per million Spaniards, compared with 5.8 per million foreign nationals.
– Rapes have increased by 143 percent in just five years, from 2,143 cases in 2019 to 5,206 in 2024. In the 18 to 25 age group, the rate of those convicted of sexual offences is 27 per 100,000 among Spaniards, but reaches 127 among Africans and 84 among Hispanic Americans. Catalonia is 2.3 times above the national average and stands well ahead of the rest.
– In robberies with violence, foreign nationals account for 43 percent of offenders, even though they represent only 15 percent of the adult population. Their rate is 4.4 times higher than that of Spaniards. In burglaries they commit 29 percent, 2.3 times more, and in thefts 33 percent, three times more. Africans lead by a wide margin, with 3,517 convicted per million men for burglaries, compared with just 338 among Spaniards.
– Squatting is another silent tragedy, with 168,891 known cases between 2010 and 2024, but only 68,496 arrests due to a lack of firmness in punishing this type of offence. Since 2020, more than half of those arrested have been foreign nationals. In 2023 they accounted for 51.8 percent. Their squatting rate is 6.1 times higher than that of Spaniards. Catalonia triples the national average.
– Jihadist terrorism is primarily associated with Muslim immigration, with 77 percent of those convicted being Moroccan. Separately, organised Latin American gangs represent a serious criminal problem, particularly in Madrid, where one in five murders in 2025 is already linked to such gangs.
– In prisons the picture is definitive. 31.4 percent of inmates are foreign nationals, compared with the 14.6 percent they represent in the adult population. Moroccans are 5.4 times over-represented and Algerians 15 times. Among minors aged 14 to 17, the rate of convicted Africans is 55.4 per 1,000, compared with 8.7 among Spaniards.
– The data are compelling and come from official sources. The report concludes that this imported criminality will only be contained through clear measures, strict limits on illegal immigration and an end to mass regularisations. Without them, the ageing of the Spanish population will not offset the increase in risk that is already being experienced. In other words, even though an older population is usually associated with lower crime, that effect will not be strong enough to cancel out the increased risk that the report claims is coming from higher levels of crime linked to immigration.
– The report referred to in the article is a specific demographic and crime analysis by the Observatorio Demográfico CEU CEFAS, titled Demografía de la delincuencia en España. Official report, Spanish: https://cefas.ceu.es/wp-content/uploads/Informe_delincuencia_21_Observatorio_Demografico_CEU_CEFAS.pdf
Original article, Spanish: https://gaceta.es/espana/las-cifras-que-oculta-el-gobierno-los-extranjeros-cometen-cinco-veces-mas-violaciones-y-cuatro-veces-mas-homicidios-que-los-espanoles-20251214-0020/ 

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Diariosur Editorial- The PSOE senses the end of the ‘Sánchez era’: {By Paula De las Heras. Full article translation}
– {I am posting this in full. Most Spanish news outlets are featuring similar articles on their front pages today. Both the left & right leaning news sources are hammering on the PSOE, so I felt it deserved the space. -Ed.}
– Spanish socialists often recall the agonising final term of Felipe González (PSOE), which began with an against-the-odds election victory in 1993 and ended with José María Aznar’s PP win in 1996. In hindsight, many believe it would have been better to lose in 1993, sparing the party three painful years of unrelenting scandals—Filesa, the GAL, Ibercorp, the secret funds, the Cesid wiretaps—which left no time to rebuild.
– A similar feeling that Pedro Sánchez’s government is inevitably ending, that only a prolonged agony remains, has taken hold in the party in recent weeks. The PSOE is famously volatile, swinging from despair to euphoria in days. Many recall that in July, after a devastating police report felled Santos Cerdán, the mood was similarly bleak, only to shift after the summer. “Perhaps after Christmas, something similar will happen again,” a senior official mused this Thursday. Another party collaborator noted, “We’ve grown used to shrinking back, waiting for the boss to have an idea to save us, as he has before. But it gets harder each time.”
– Sánchez delivers his traditional year-end review on Monday in a severely adverse climate. He faces a new round of regional elections with disastrous expectations for the PSOE and clings to one uncertain hope: that the potential amnesty for Carles Puigdemont in April might shift Junts’s position on the Budget. The Moncloa insists the plan is still to exhaust the legislature and reach 2027, even if passing the Budget or key EU-reform commitments becomes impossible, forcing ambitious projects—like transferring criminal investigations to the public prosecutor’s office—to be shelved.
– The government will try to counter this sense of paralysis in the coming six weeks, while parliament is inactive, with popular, executive-only measures like raising the minimum wage and presenting seemingly unassailable decree-laws. Government sources say there will be no ‘omnibus’ decree packed with political traps for the right this time.
– However, none of this alleviates the feeling among many socialists that everything is crumbling, or their doubts about whether the struggle to resist is worth it. This is compounded by the growing notion, highlighted by ERC’s Gabriel Rufián in the last parliamentary session, that while the government boasts of economic growth and job creation, many Spaniards’ wages do not cover the cost of living.
– The despondency is palpable. “My grandmother’s funeral was a party compared to the atmosphere in Ferraz [PSOE HQ],” admitted a party insider recently. “The blows keep coming, and it gets harder to get up each time.” All this occurs with a party leadership severely weakened and lacking authority. “Pedro has lost all his shields because his trusted men have fallen one by one,” a regional leader emphasised.
– The leadership renewal intended to rearm Sánchez after Cerdán’s fall was immediately burdened by sexual harassment accusations against Paco Salazar, who was meant to be a strongman in the new executive. The mismanagement of this case, five months on, has triggered an internal revolt unprecedented since Sánchez retook the PSOE’s reins in 2017.
– This week saw a perfect storm. As the government faced the exploding “cluster bomb” of the ‘Koldo case’—with arrests including fixer Leire Díez and raids by the anti-corruption unit—the party was hit by a lethal ‘me too’ crisis for a force that proclaims itself feminist and the sole bulwark against Vox’s sexist denialism.
– There is fear within the PSOE that figures like Díez or former minister José Luís Ábalos might adopt a defence strategy similar to businessman Victor de Aldama’s, sowing suspicion about other party or government members, even Sánchez himself. But there is greater fear of an avalanche of complaints about demeaning behaviour towards women within its ranks.
– Attempts to contain anger over the negligent handling of the Salazar case—and parallel accusations against the mayor of Torremolinos—have failed. The dismissal of Salazar’s alleged accomplice from the Moncloa, along with the resignations of other officials, has not calmed the waters or dispelled suspicions that have particularly damaged the credibility of Organisation Secretary Rebeca Torró. The party leadership claims some are exploiting these episodes for internal score-settling. That too is a symptom of decay in a formation where, until recently, no one dared challenge Sánchez’s will. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/nacional/psoe-intuye-fin-era-sanchez-20251214001233-ntrc_amp.html 

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Junts stresses to Sánchez that the rupture is “irreversible” and that he will not have a budget even if he now tries to comply: {Translation, summary}
– Junts has declared its rupture with the Spanish Government “irreversible” and vows to reject the General Budgets in February, leaving Pedro Sánchez without a parliamentary majority. In an interview, Junts’s congressional secretary, Josep María Cruset, stated that recent government gestures, including acknowledging past failures to comply with their investiture agreement, are insufficient and came only after the coalition lost key votes. He argued that Junts would only have negotiated had the PSOE fulfilled its agreements earlier in the legislature, but systematic non-compliance led to the break.
– While Junts will still engage on its own legislative initiatives, like the Law against Multiple Reoffending, it rules out supporting government or PSOE-led bills. Cruset noted pending issues like an anti-squatting law and devolving immigration powers to Catalonia, but stressed the relationship is beyond repair. He cited recent PSOE scandals as validation for Junts’s distance from the socialists. The Christmas pause will not reset relations, with Cruset asserting Junts is a “serious and predictable” project, forecasting a budget impasse and a fraught legislative path ahead. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-junts-subraya-sanchez-ruptura-irreversible-no-tendra-presupuestos-ahora-trate-cumplir-20251213092950.html 

ANDALUCÍA

Andalucía Tightens Tourist Rental Controls as Coastal Owners Face Closures and Heavy Fines: {Translation, summary}
– Andalucía is intensifying controls on tourist rentals, with major consequences for coastal property owners. Since 2024, inspections have led to the cancellation of more than 12,300 illegal tourist dwellings, heavily concentrated along the coast. The Costa del Sol is the most affected, with over 4,300 closures in Málaga province alone, followed by Granada’s coast and Cádiz, where cancellations are spread across seaside municipalities rather than city centres.
– Many coastal owners had registered properties through declarations of responsibility, but inspections found failures to meet planning rules or new housing decree requirements, forcing removal from the register and closure. New agreements with coastal councils now block immediate registration in saturated zones, limiting future supply.
– From 2026, sanctions will harden, with fines of up to 600,000 euros. Coastal landlords also face uncertainty from Spain’s new single national register, which has already rejected thousands of Andalucía properties, preventing advertising even where regional approval exists.
Source, Spanish: https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/malaga/2025/12/14/malaga-cierre-viviendas-turisticas-ilegales-124768870.html 

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The medical strike in Andalucia suspends 155,831 consultations in first 3 days of four day stoppage: {Translation, summary}
– The state doctors’ strike has come to an end after a fourth day of minimum services in Andalucian hospitals and health centres. The impact has been significant. According to data from the Regional Ministry of Health, 35.7% of Andalucian doctors took part in this strike to protest against the Framework Statute proposed by the Ministry of Health. Over the first three days, the strike led to the suspension in Andalucia of ‘155,831 consultations, 3,234 surgical procedures, 14,706 diagnostic tests and a total of 76,386 outpatient consultations’.
– {I was sceptical of these figures, but deeper research confirmed the number of 3-day cancellations claimed is indeed possible, and may be accurate. -Ed.}
Source, Spanish: https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/andalucia/2025/12/12/huelga-medicos-andalucia-consultas-citas-canceladas-124722834.html 

ALMAYATE

Body of 28-year-old man is found next to the N-340 in Almayate (Vélez-Málaga): {Translation, summary}
– A 28-year-old man was found dead early on Saturday next to the N-340 road, at a point located between the coastal towns of Valle-Niza and Almayate, both belonging to the municipality of Vélez-Málaga, sources close to the investigation have confirmed to SUR.
– The body was found on the shoulder and adjacent area of the N-340, about 500 meters before the access to a campsite, in the vicinity of the watchtower of Jaral, very close to the border with Valle-Niza. Members of the Local Police of Vélez-Málaga, National Police, Civil Guard and health services were sent to the scene, who could only certify the death.
– Researchers are considering the death could be due to an accidental fall from a nearby cliff, on a coastal strip where there are undeveloped paths, steep slopes and areas of difficult access. The National Police, competent in the investigation, has opened proceedings to clarify the exact causes of death. For now, no indications of criminality have emerged. The coastal stretch between Almayate and Valle-Niza, crossed by the old N-340, is an area with cliffs and paths frequented by hikers and walkers, especially on weekends, which has led to interventions on other occasions due to fortuitous accidents. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/sucesos/hallan-muerto-joven-28-anos-junto-n340-almayate-20251213143151-nt_amp.html 

EUROPE

Bulgarian government resigns after weeks of street protests:
– Bulgaria’s government resigned on Thursday after less than a year in power, following weeks of street protests over its economic policies and its perceived failure to tackle corruption. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced the decision in a televised address just minutes before parliament was due to vote on a no-confidence motion. The resignation comes less than three weeks before Bulgaria is due to join the euro zone on January 1.
– President Rumen Radev will now ask the parties represented in parliament to try to form a new government. If they fail – as appears likely – he will appoint an interim administration to run the country until a new election can be held.
Full article: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/bulgarian-government-resigns-after-weeks-street-protests-2025-12-11/

WORLD

Gunmen kill 11 at Australia’s Bondi Beach Jewish holiday event:
– Gunmen opened fire at a Jewish holiday celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday, killing at least 11 people in what Australian officials described as a targeted antisemitic attack. One of the suspected gunmen was also killed. A second gunman was in critical condition and police were investigating whether a third attacker was involved, New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon told a press conference. Two police officers were among 29 people taken to hospital with injuries, he said.
– Witnesses said the shooting at the famed beach, which was packed on a hot summer’s evening, lasted about 10 minutes, sending hundreds of people scattering along the sand and into nearby streets and parks. Police said around 1,000 people had attended the Hanukkah event. Full article: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/australia-police-responding-after-gunshots-reported-bondi-beach-2025-12-14/

SCIENCE

Neither buried nor cremated– aquamation arrives as a new funeral method that uses water and is more environmentally friendly: {Translation, summary}
– A more ecological alternative to traditional burial and cremation is aquamation, or alkaline hydrolysis. This process, permitted in several countries including the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands, places the body in a pressurised chamber with heated water and alkali. Over several hours, it gently breaks down organic matter, leaving only sterile bone remains, which are processed into a white powder for the family. Aquamation uses about eight times less energy than flame cremation, releases no direct emissions from combustion, and has a significantly smaller carbon footprint. Its environmental benefits were recognised by figures such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who requested the procedure.
– A first step towards reducing the environmental impact of the death of our loved ones is to use more sustainable materials, such as cardboard coffins, which are more environmentally friendly and economical. A traditional coffin costs between €500 and €3,500, according to Efe. To reduce costs, cardboard coffins have arrived on the scene. They are common in countries such as Poland, but still rare in Spain. Their price starts at €100. There are also options made of bamboo or wicker and more sophisticated versions, such as coffins made of mushroom mycelium, as well as projects for coffins made from seaweed and shells. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/ni-enterrado-ni-cremado-llega-acuamacion-como-nuevo-metodo-funerario-que-usa-agua-respeta-mas-medio-ambiente_6908691_0.html 

RELIGION

Sánchez mocks bishops for saying that it is in Spain’s interest to have a vote of confidence, a censure or elections: {Translation, summary}
– The Spanish Government has launched a strong political response against Luis Argüello, president of the Episcopal Conference, after he suggested that the current institutional deadlock could be resolved through constitutional means such as a confidence vote, a motion of censure or fresh elections. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez mocked Argüello at a PSOE rally, inviting him to stand for election with the far right and asserting that clerical interference in politics ended with the advent of democracy. We ask the Episcopal Conference for political neutrality and to hide a little their affection for PPVox. 
– The Minister of the Presidency, Félix Bolaños, formally accused Argüello of breaking the political neutrality of the Church and demanded that he refrain from partisan statements. In his letter, Bolaños interpreted the bishop’s remarks as signalling a desire to bring down the current Government and suggested that he would be more comfortable with a right wing administration.
– Argüello defended his comments by stating that he merely referred to mechanisms explicitly provided for in the Constitution and regretted that dialogue with the Government had been limited, rather than extending to broader issues such as education. He argued that the present situation was exceptional, given the Government’s inability to secure majorities for legislation or budgets, and insisted that his intervention was institutional rather than partisan in nature.
Source, Spanish: https://www.elespanol.com/espana/politica/20251214/sanchez-arremete-obispos-opinar-espana-conviene-cuestion-confianza-censura-elecciones/1003744054817_0.html & Video Link

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