DigameXtra No. 3203 Wednesday, March 11th, 2026

On March 11, 2026March 10, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

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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. Header photo: LucasAlbuquerque/Unsplash

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Next Editor’s Holiday: Monday, 16 March.
Next Public Holidays:
2 April, Maundy Thursday
3 April, Good Friday
5 April, Easter Sunday
Thus, in April 2026, there is a long weekend break for Easter: Thursday thru Sunday, 2 thru 5 April.

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DigameXtra Will Be Closed Next Monday, 16/3/26

Items scheduled for Monday 16/3, will be posted the following day, Tuesday 17/3. Time your submissions appropriately.

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WHAT’S ON

Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!

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Ajobacalao Route in Vélez-Málaga Has Begun: Until Sun, 5 April
In Lent, Vélez-Málaga lives one of its traditions, the Ajobacalao Route, which pays tribute to one of the most representative and traditional dishes of the gastronomy of Vélez-Málaga. Special attention will be given to the Ajobacalao (garlic cod) so famous for its flavour, thus focusing both on the promotion and on the gastronomic quality of the dish, respect for the tradition of the recipe and the experience offered by the participating establishments. Info: 952541104

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Carnaval de Humilladero: Fri-Sun, 13-15 March
This event will be filled with magic, with costumes, workshops, music, and laughter, while participants create authentic works of art using hot glue guns, needles, scissors, paints, and much more.

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Concert in Alhaurín de la Torre– Verso Libre Gospel Band: Fri, 20 March, 8pm
Centro Cultural Vicente Aleixandre
C/ Jabalcuza 9, Alhaurín de la Torre 29130
Verso Libre Gospel Band brings the essence of gospel, soul and R&B to the general public through a powerful and accessible format, with a choir of more than 10 voices and a professional band that create intense and exciting harmonies. Their repertoire combines classics in English with versions in Spanish, placing special emphasis on conveying messages of optimism and self-improvement.
Info & tix (€5): https://www.mientrada.net/evento/alhaurin-torre-verso-libre-gospel-band/

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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/

Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details

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Latest Weather Alerts & Advisories For Andalucia: https://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos?k=and

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SERVICES WANTED / OFFERED

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COMPARE FUNERALS

Compare Funerals cover the whole of Spain:
ruthforder@comparefuneral.org
* Direct Cremation €2,250
* Collection of deceased and conveyance to Funeral Home
* Supply of coffin
* Preparation and care of deceased
* Registration of death and certification of all legal documentation
* Cremation and any doctor’s fees
* Supply of Urn
* Delivery of Urn and associated paperwork to family (death certificate, cremation certificate etc)
This plan is exclusive to a number of provinces, please ask advisor for more information.
Contact Ruth Forder on 0034 693 715 718 ; funeralplansbyruthforder.com
Your questions answered by Ruth from Compare Funerals Spain
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– Why choose Compare Funerals? There seems to be a gap in Spain between independent funeral directors, offering plans at a good price but lacking the security of an established Trust or ability to cover a client overseas and Providers who seem to charge more than necessary. We want to be right in the middle and offer the best of both worlds. Our best-priced plan is only 2,250€ and does the essentials.
– Can I do a payment plan? All our plans are payable in full or over up to 5 years interest FREE. The interest free periods are based on initial deposit. The higher the deposit the less your monthly repayments will be.
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– What happens if I move? All our plans offer the equivalent service in Spain (including the islands), Portugal, Republic of Ireland and the UK. If you moved to the UK, we would transfer the plan to one of our many partners at no extra cost to you.
– Is paperwork included? Yes, your family will receive a death certificate in Spanish and an international certification in English. We also provide a cremation certificate that allows the ashes on board a plane.

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BUY / SELL / TRADE / RENT / WANTED

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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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For Sale, 2 items:
– Very nice rocking-chair, recently reupholstered, excellent condition, reduced to 25€.
– Sturdy walker, very stable, with brakes, like new condition, reduced to 40€.
Jill, Algarrobo, 695463385. Can also meet in Caleta de Velez or El Ingenio Velez-Malaga

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RECOMMENDATIONS, REQUESTS, COMMENTS & SUBSCRIBER SOAPBOX

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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NEWS & ARTICLES

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

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SPAIN

Spain joins with President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, against Von der Leyen- “The opposite of order is disorder and chaos”: {Translation}
– The government distances itself from the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and calls on EU partners to “defend” the rules-based international order, claiming that the opposite “is disorder and chaos”. This was stated on Tuesday at the Council of Ministers by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares {pic}, who, asked about the words of the German leader, preferred to align himself with the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa.
– Albares has indicated that Sanchez’s Executive Office “identifies” with the position of the President of the European Council, António Costa, who had already distanced himself from the EU president.
– Specifically, Costa advocated “ensuring that the world remains based on rules” and defended “multilateral solutions”, in the face of Von der Leyen’s statements, who said that “this international system can no longer be trusted” as “the only way” to defend its interests in the face of threats, in the context of the attack by the United States and Israel against Iran.
– Second Vice-President Yolanda Díaz (communist, SUMAR), for her part, has accused Von der Leyen of siding with “barbarism”. In statements on ‘TVE’, she has proclaimed that the words of the EU leader are “more than unfortunate” and constitute “nonsense”, insisting that the war in Iran is “illegal” and “absolutely illegitimate”. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/nacional/gobierno-cierra-filas-costa-frente-von-der-20260310142553-ntrc_amp.html

MALAGA PROVINCE

Aid of 3,000 euros for the self-employed to change their car in Malaga- these are the conditions: {Translation, summary, explainer}
– The Andalusia Renove vehicle plan for self-employed workers offers 3,000 euros in direct aid to all self-employed individuals, provided they send their old car or van to the scrapyard and purchase a new, low-emission vehicle. “The order has already been published in the BOJA (Official Gazette of the regional government), it is a fact, not a future possibility,” highlighted the Minister for Industry, Energy and Mines, Jorge Paradela, during its presentation. This action aims to renew an aging vehicle fleet, especially in the Andalusian region, where the average age stands at around 15 years.
– “We all have to contribute solutions to decarbonise; this aid is to reduce the age of the vehicle fleet, encourage the scrapping of the oldest vehicles and the exchange for less polluting vehicles.” For this objective, five million euros from the regional government’s own funds will be allocated, in a measure that, according to the minister, also aims to incentivise the activity of self-employed workers.
– Paradoxically, this plan cannot be used to buy 100% electric vehicles, since, as Paradela recalled, there are already other programmes for that, such as Moves. It is intended for other technologies, such as hybrids, hydrogen fuel cell cars, and vehicles running on alternative fuels like biodiesel, ethanol (E85), or natural gas (CNG). Hybrids already constitute the majority of the alt-fuel market.
– For this, in addition to sending a car ten years old or more to the scrapyard, the new car or van must have gas emissions equal to or less than 120 grams of CO2 per kilometre. Furthermore, its maximum price must be 35,000 euros plus VAT; and acquisition via direct purchase, leasing or renting is permitted. The greatest advantage is that those 3,000 euros are a direct discount, with a 100% advance payment of the aid at the time it is granted.
– The president of Faconauto, Marta Blázquez, who signed an agreement with the minister minutes before the presentation, firmly endorsed the regional government’s proposal: “It is a renewal plan for self-employed workers who cannot yet make the transition to an electric vehicle, so that they at least have help to be able to let go of a car older than 10 years and be able to opt for the rest of the technologies that are also part of sustainable mobility and decarbonisation.”
– {More info: The statement that hybrids already constitute the majority of the alternative-fuel market in Spain is accurate. Recent data confirms that non-plug-in hybrids (also known as self-charging or conventional hybrids) are the dominant technology in the Spanish automotive market. For January 2026, alternative-fuel vehicles (electrified, hybrid, and compressed gas) represented 61.3% of total vehicle sales in Spain. Within this category, conventional hybrids (non-plug-in) were the clear leader with approximately 40% market share of all vehicle sales. Looking specifically at passenger cars, the trend is even more pronounced. In January 2026, electrified, hybrid, and gas-powered passenger cars accounted for 72.87% of sales. Non-plug-in hybrids alone reached a remarkable 48.69% market share, meaning nearly one in every two passenger cars sold in Spain incorporates this technology. Full-year data for 2024 corroborates this trend. Across all vehicle types, hybrids (including both full and mild hybrids) led sales with 394,841 units (32.29% market share), surpassing petrol vehicles at 386,378 units (31.60%). For passenger cars specifically, hybrids dominated with 392,365 units sold (38.58% market share), followed by petrol at 378,687 units (37.24%). While plug-in vehicles (both BEV and PHEV) are growing rapidly, reaching nearly 19% of total vehicle registrations in 2025 , conventional hybrids remain the preferred choice for Spanish consumers -Ed. Refs: https://www.consumidorglobal.com/pt/tecnologia/espanha-acelera-electrificacion-mais-60-dos-carros-vendidos-sao-alternativos_17944_102.html & https://alternative-fuels-observatory.ec.europa.eu/general-information/news/spains-transition-electric-mobility-bev-and-phev-market-overview-2025 }
Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/malaga-capital/ayudas-3000-euros-autonomos-cambien-coche-requisitos-malaga-andalucia-20260310134615-nt_amp.html

TORROX

Endesa attributes the power outages in Torrox Costa to specific incidents: {Translation, summary}
– Endesa has attributed recent power cuts affecting businesses and residents in Torrox Costa to two specific incidents on the overhead medium voltage network, which occurred on a Friday and Monday and have now been resolved. The company states there are no structural problems with the electricity grid supplying the municipality. It expressed surprise at complaints from the mayor, Oscar Medina, noting continuous communication with the town hall regarding planned improvements. Endesa has informed the council of forthcoming 2026 investments, including a new medium voltage line from the Torrox substation and an action plan for low voltage networks. These follow 160,000 euros spent in 2025 on underground cabling in Torrox Costa. Additionally, the company is investing 30,000 euros this year in digitalising the local grid by installing remote control devices, which will enable automatic responses to future incidents, thereby reducing detection, repair, and service restoration times. Source, Spanish: https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/axarquia/2026/03/10/endesa-incidencias-puntuales-cortes-electricidad-torrox-costa-127789638.html

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Torrox brings forward its insect and rodent control campaign to increase effectiveness and reinforce prevention measures: {Translation, summary}
– The Town Hall of Torrox has advanced its insect and rodent control campaign to improve the effectiveness of its action plan and boost prevention. Following an initial survey of areas needing treatment, the work will involve monitoring, extermination, and follow-up procedures. Councillor Ana Pérez emphasised the importance of controlling potential plagues after the winter’s heavy rains. She has requested residents’ collaboration and understanding regarding any inconvenience. The primary goals are to prevent material damage, avoid disease spread, and reduce public health risks. Methods will include traps, baits, and fumigation where necessary, along with maintenance to prevent future issues. The work will be carried out progressively across the municipality in the coming weeks. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/torrox-adelanta-campana-desinsectacion-y-desratizacion-aumentar-eficacia-reforzar-prevencion/

NERJA

The new library in Nerja will need changes in its project to continue the works: {Translation, summary}
– The works of the new municipal library of Nerja, one of the most important cultural projects promoted in recent years by the City Council, will have to be adapted to the real conditions of the terrain after incidents were detected in the subsoil during the excavation work, which began in February 2025. The Local Government Board of the City Council has approved the drafting of a modified project that will allow the introduction of the necessary technical solutions to guarantee the stability of the building and to be able to resume the works, paralyzed for months.
– The Councillor for Urban Planning and Infrastructure, Alberto Tomé (PP), explained in a statement that the decision is taken after the company awarded the works, Construcciones Majoin S. L., requested the temporary suspension of the works when it encountered unforeseen circumstances during the execution of the project. According to the Nerja councillor, the new technical document will define the actions necessary to resolve the problems detected on the site. These include the complete execution of the foundations using micropiles to ensure the stability of the walls of the adjacent buildings. The project also plans to replace the initially proposed trench excavations with a shoring system, as well as adjusting the actual geometry of the plot following the demolition of the existing elements on the site. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/axarquia/nueva-biblioteca-nerja-necesitara-cambios-proyecto-continuar-obras-20260310130659-nt_amp.html

CÚTAR

This Saturday, Cútar will host the 2nd Meeting “Nasrid and Moorish Women: Bearers of Rural Tradition”: {Translation, summary}
– Cútar will host the second ‘Nazarite and Morisco Women: Bearers of Rural Tradition’ meeting on Saturday, 14 March, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, as part of International Women’s Day events. The programme includes an institutional opening, followed by lectures from University of Granada professors Adela Fábregas García on women’s role in the Nazarite economy and María Elena Díez Jorge on Morisco women’s homes and clothing, and a talk by historian Isabel Rodríguez Alemán on Morisco women in Cútar. A round table discussion, moderated by Lucía Parrado Domínguez, will foster dialogue. The event concludes with a dramatic performance at the Cútar Farmstead Interpretation Centre featuring María Lozano García, Nieves Pineda Lozano, Lucía Parrado Domínguez and Beatriz Parrado Domínguez. Registration is required by 12 March via email to [ centroalqueriadecutar@gmail.com ]
Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/cutar-acoge-ii-encuentro-mujeres-nazaries-y-moriscas-portadoras-tradicion-rural/

EUROPE

President Nawrocki refuses to sign law to tap 44B euros in EU defence loans for Poland:
– Polish President Karol Nawrocki {pic} has refused to sign a law that would allow Poland to access nearly €44 billion in EU defence loans, arguing it would increase dependency on Brussels. He proposed an alternative plan using national resources instead. This move highlights the political rift between Nawrocki, a euroskeptic nationalist, and Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s pro-EU liberal government.
– Poland is set to be the largest beneficiary of the €150 billion SAFE program, designed to bolster European defence as the U.S. reduces its role. The government had prepared 139 projects for the funds, focusing on border security and domestic industry.
– However, Nawrocki and the opposition PiS party criticize the loan, claiming it comes with conditions that favor Germany and European manufacturers over U.S. producers. “Polish independence has no price,” PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński said last month. “What they propose to us is a Poland under the German boot, and we are rejecting this German boot.”
– The U.S. has also opposed the program. Despite the resistance, Tusk’s government is preparing a contingency plan, though accessing the funds after a veto would be more difficult. Nawrocki has until March 20 to make a final decision. Full article: https://apnews.com/article/poland-defense…

USA

Senator Lindsey Graham, a key ally of Trump, calls for the withdrawal of bases from Spain: ‘They have lost their way.’: {Translation, summary}
– Veteran US senator Lindsey Graham {pic} has called on President Trump to withdraw US bases from Spain, stating that Spain “has lost its way” and “I no longer want to do business with you.” He declared, “I want our air bases to leave Spain and move to a country that will allow us to use them.” Graham questioned, “To Spain: you will not allow us to use your bases, well, our air bases in your country, to prevent a homicidal regime from obtaining nuclear weapons that will terrorise the world?” He urged Trump “to move all our bases out of Spain,” asking, “should we have air bases in a country that will not allow us to use those planes to protect the world against a religiously inspired Nazi regime?” Graham described the Iranian regime as “Nazis who are crazy,” adding they are “no more normal than Hitler was.” He also criticised Saudi Arabia and the UAE, stating, “We need partners who step up in a fight we cannot afford to lose.” Source, Spanish: https://okdiario.com/internacional/senador-lindsey-graham-aliado-clave-trump-pide-retirar-bases-espana-han-perdido-rumbo-16385500

In related news…

“I cannot imagine a future for Rota without the American base; it is vital”: {Translation, summary}
– Mayor Javier Ruiz Arana describes calls to close the Rota base as “childish,” demonstrating an “enormous lack of knowledge” of its importance. He warns that closure or transfer would be an “economic disaster,” given the base generates an impact of around “600 million euros” and “10 or 12 thousand jobs” in the area. Ruiz Arana states he cannot “imagine a future for Rota without the American base,” noting that “someone who is investing so much money” in ongoing construction projects would not take a “contrary” decision to withdraw. He acknowledges the relationship has had “ups and downs,” including past contract disputes, but emphasises the base’s enormous local economic footprint. For Rota, the presence of the base is indispensable; its withdrawal would be catastrophic for the local economy and employment, a prospect the mayor finds “very unimaginable.” Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/andalucia/imagino-futuro-rota-base-americana-ellos-es-vital/202603092302153225602.html

MIDDLE EAST

The Pentagon warns that today will be the “most intense day” of attacks on Iran: {Translation}
– US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth {pic} said that Tuesday will be the most intense day of bombing in Iran since the start of the war and stated that Tehran has shown a reduced capacity to respond as the offensive progresses.
‘Today will be, once again, our most intense day of attacks inside Iran: the most fighter jets, the most bombers, the most attacks,’ Hegseth said at a press conference at the Pentagon.
– According to the Secretary of Defence, ‘in the last 24 hours’ the Islamic Republic ‘has fired the fewest missiles it has been able to fire to date’. Regarding the duration of the offensive, Hegseth did not want to give a timeframe and limited himself to assuring that it will end ‘when we want it to’. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/mundo/pentagono-advierte-hoy-sera-dia_0_2006124642.html

ENERGY CRISIS

Ursula von der Leyen Raises Eyebrows With New Found Support For Nuke Plants: {Translation, summary}
– Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, has declared nuclear energy “has become crucial” for Europe, stating the continent made a “strategic error” in moving away from it. Addressing a Paris summit, she announced 200 million euros to accelerate small modular reactors (SMRs) by 2030. These factory built reactors produce 10-300 megawatts, offering constant, low emission power to complement renewables and reduce fossil fuel dependence.
– Von der Leyen highlighted that industries of the future, including AI and robotics, will depend on abundant affordable electricity, with data centres emerging as a major new source of demand . She argued the Middle East war “brutally” exposes vulnerability to fossil fuels, urging rapid progress in this “strategic sector” to ensure energy independence, security, and industrial competitiveness. The goal is for Europe to become a “global hub for next generation nuclear energy.”
– However, her Executive Vice President Teresa Ribera objected, asking her not to interfere in national politics and rejecting a nuclear return for Spain. French President Macron supported Von der Leyen, calling nuclear “essential” for 2050 carbon neutrality and energy independence. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/von-der-leyen-se-alinea-con-macron-asegura-que-europa-cometio-un-error-estrategico-alejarse-energia-nuclear_6944079_0.html

Spain’s Response…

Spain replies to Von der Leyen’s return to nuclear energy- “The winning bet in Spain is renewables”: {Translation, summary}
– The Spanish Government has dismissed Ursula von der Leyen’s admission that moving away from nuclear energy was a “strategic error.” Third Vice President Sara Aagesen {pic} responded that “the winning bet” in Spain remains renewables, citing the sun, wind, and company investments since 2018. She overlooked Spain’s Nuclear Safety Council’s ongoing review of the Almaraz plant’s extension request, and failed to address how Spain intends to power all the industrial AI and data centers it actively promotes.
– Von der Leyen, aligned with France, announced 200 million euros for small modular reactors, defending nuclear as “clean” energy. Despite this, Aagesen insisted Spanish companies have not invested in new nuclear generation and that the Government maintains its commitment to an energy transition based solely on renewables, not nuclear power.
– {In fact, all energy investors are avoiding investing in Spain due to retroactive cuts to renewable energy subsidies that have not been settled. As of December 2025, the 27 affected investors have accumulated 1,754.7 million in outstanding due payments from Spain, plus 297.6 million in late payment interest and another 238.7 million in legal costs and fees. In total, Spain’s bill now amounts to 2,292 million. Furthermore, legal victories are occurring in quick succession across the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Belgium to the point Spanish owned overseas properties are now being confiscated. -Ed. Ref: https://thecorner.eu/news-spain/spain-economy/belgian-courts-seize-e482-million-from-spanish-state-owned-enaire-over-unpaid-renewable-energy-awards/123747/ } Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/nacional/gobierno-responde-vuelta-energia-nuclear-von-der-leyen-apuesta-ganadora-espana-son-las-renovables_6944223_0.html

HEALTH

Women doctors under 35 years of age working in Primary Care are the main target of attacks on doctors in Malaga province: {Translation, summary}
– Data released by Malaga’s medical organisations reveals that female doctors under 35 working in Primary Care are the primary targets of attacks on physicians. Of 72 recorded incidents, 64 per cent were against women. Crucially, all cases involved verbal violence such as threats and insults, while only 21.7 per cent additionally included physical attacks. Overall healthcare worker data from the Andalusian Health Service shows women represent 74 per cent of victims. However, only about half of professionals report incidents of verbal abuse, meaning official figures likely underrepresent the problem. A 2015 Penal Code change means insults alone are no longer a crime, discouraging reporting. Medical bodies are demanding a unified data register, legal reform, and better security in health centres to address the issue. {Perhaps some ‘conflict resolution classes’ for these young lady doctors would be a more effective approach? -Ed.} Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/malaga-capital/mujeres-principal-blanco-agresiones-medicos-malaga-20260310134011-nt_amp.html

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The Government approves a decree to unify the criteria for providing care to undocumented immigrants in the public health system: {Translation}
– The Council of Ministers approved a royal decree on Tuesday to guarantee that all immigrants living in Spain have the right to public healthcare, just like all other citizens. The regulation, promoted by the Ministries of Health and Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, standardizes procedures across all autonomous communities and establishes the process that will allow undocumented migrants to access public healthcare.
– The government thus aims to eliminate the administrative barriers that, according to the Ministry of Health, have been denounced by various organizations and which hinder access to public healthcare for undocumented migrants residing in Spain. The regulation expands upon the provisions of the 2003 Healthcare Cohesion Law and introduces a “uniform” procedure throughout the country to recognize the right to healthcare for foreigners without a residence permit in Spain. “This regulation seeks to guarantee equity and prevent inequalities for this group, allowing for better disease control at the primary care level and a more efficient use of public resources,” emphasizes the department headed by Mónica García .
– With the aim of reducing all the bureaucracy involved in this process, access to this right will only require a sworn statement, in which the applicant affirms that they do not have any other type of health insurance coverage, that they cannot transfer this right from another country, and that there is no third party obligated to pay for their care. “We are making access to healthcare the default option and reaffirming a very simple principle: public healthcare is a right of everyone living in our country,” García celebrated, while also advocating for universal access to healthcare “at a time when the far right, racism, and exclusionary policies are gaining ground in many places.”
– To prove habitual residence, a social services registration document will be requested, although the Government contemplates exceptions in cases where such documentation cannot be provided: certificates of schooling or enrollment in public centers; reports from social services or certificates of visitor records; electricity, gas, water, telephone or Internet bills in your name; or registration certificates and consular registration documents.
– Upon submitting the application, the migrant will receive a provisional document granting immediate access to publicly funded healthcare while their case is being processed. This document will be valid in any autonomous community. A three-month period will then begin during which the decision will be communicated. If no response is received within this time, the application will be considered approved and will remain in effect until coverage is obtained through other means. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/nacional/gobierno-aprueba-un-decreto-para-unificar-los-criterios-atencion-inmigrantes-sin-papeles-sanidad-publica_6943645_0.html

SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES

*Click links to read the English language articles*

– Malaga mountains wake up covered in snow as cold drop hits {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/antequera/the-mountains-villanueva-trabuco-dawn-covered-white-20260310100829-nt.html
– Fire at Marbella’s Guadalmina Golf Club destroys hundreds of buggies {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/marbella-san-pedro/hundreds-golf-trolleys-affected-fire-marbella-20260309115336-nt.html
– Town halls on the eastern Costa del Sol have invested 162,751 euros to provide 24-hour information with devices in Rincón de la Victoria, Vélez-Málaga, Algarrobo, Torrox and Nerja
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/axarquia-bets-tourist-digitalisation-with-nine-interactive-20260309163040-nt.html
– Almuñécar launches mosquito control programme to combat West Nile Fever
https://www.surinenglish.com/andalucia/costa-tropical/almunecar-activates-mosquito-surveillance-and-control-programme-20260309154623-nt.html

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Cinesur El Ingenio Films schedule: You can find the film schedule at this link. Films tagged as (VOSE) are in the original language with Spanish subtitles.
https://www.cinesur.com/es/cine/mk2-cinesur-el-ingenio

Petrol Prices, updated daily: These are the fuel stations in Malaga province with the lowest prices. The price data for 95 and 98-octane petrol and diesel fuel is updated every day. See it here:
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/updated-daily-these-20220314114157-nt.html

Andalucia Reservoir Data, updated daily: The direct link to the old familiar chart page no longer works. Here is the new way to access it. This link takes you to the map version.
https://www.redhidrosurmedioambiente.es/saih/visor/visorE ; to see the chart version click this link, then in the menu bar click Data (Datos) > Reservoirs (Embalses) > Breaking News (Datos de ultima hora)

Weekly Markets
Monday: Torrox Costa
Tuesday: Nerja, Salobrena
Wednesday: Rincon de la Victoria, Algarrobo Costa
Thursday: Velez Malaga, Torre del Mar, Frigiliana
Friday: Almunecar, Salobrena, La Herradura- Summers only, Mercadillo de La Cala del Moral- Rincon de la Victoria.
Saturday: Competa, Mezquitilla@Algarrobo behind the Sala Ottowa
Sunday: Nerja Car Boot

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Local/National News in English, The Sur: http://www.surinenglish.com/
Local Weather: https://www.accuweather.com/en/es/torre-del-mar/306652/weather-forecast/306652
Bus Info: https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/our-destinations/regional
Currency Converter: https://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=GBP&amount=1
Internet Speed Test: http://beta.speedtest.net/
Local Bank Holidays: http://www.officeholidays.com/countries/spain/index.php UK Newspaper Front Pages and Worldwide Newspapers All On One Site: https://www.thepaperboy.com/uk/front-pages.cfm

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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Home Page – Based in Torrox Costa, near the bus station.

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DigameXtra No. 3202 Tuesday, March 10th, 2026

On March 10, 2026March 10, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

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DigameXtra Will Be Closed Next Monday, 16/3/26

Items scheduled for Monday 16/3, will be posted the following day, Tuesday 17/3. Time your submissions appropriately.

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WHAT’S ON

Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!

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Concert- Alberto Fer ‘acoustic’, a tribute to the 80s & 90s:
Friday, 13 March, 8pm. Auditorio Villa de Salobrena. €8.
Info & res: 643 180 584
Full monthly schedule for Auditorio Villa de Salobrena: https://www.ayto-salobrena.es/web/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/programacion-cultural-marzo-2026.pdf

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Andalusia Extreme 4×4 Championship– Torrox:
Starts: March 14, 2026 at 09:30 AM
Ends: March 15, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Free. Zona Calaceite, Torrox.
Torrox will host the 7th edition of Extreme 4×4, a spectacular motorsport event where off-road vehicles will test their power and skill on a circuit full of obstacles, impossible ramps, and jumps. This event combines adrenaline, technical skill, and excitement, transforming the town into a meeting point for motorsport and extreme sports enthusiasts. Tel: 675957257. Info: https://www.campeonatoextremo4x4.com/extreme-4×4-torrox-2026/ & Video Link

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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/

Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details

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Latest Weather Alerts & Advisories For Andalucia: https://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos?k=and

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SERVICES WANTED / OFFERED

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ARCHGROVE TRANSPORT SERVICES

Archgrove Services: A family run light haulage/transport company with bases in Archez, Spain and Cambridgeshire.
We are part of the ADH Storage and Transportation company and as such have storage available in Competa and Puente Don Manuel. Very reasonable rates.
We provide a one stop service for all your transport needs and pride ourselves on reliability, flexibility, good communication and a very much ‘can do’ approach. No job is too small and there is always a solution.
Our services include:
-Regular runs between UK and Spain
-Transport of personal property from full house moves to small single items
-Man & Van services
-Packing, including supply of packing materials
-UK Home shopping with UK delivery address
-Storage of property and vehicles in Spain
If we can be of service please contact Gail. We are on Facebook and always available to chat through your needs and provide a free no obligation quote if required.
UK: 0044 7846672013
Spain: 0034 951 066 093
Email: archgroveservices@gmail.com ; FB Link
Our contact info is also in the DigameXtra Sponsor’s Section everyday.

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SPW CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

SPW Construction Services: Professional high quality building service, fully qualified tradesmen to all trades.
Extensions, retaining walls, driveways, swimming pools, damp problems, roofs, blocked drains.
Replacement kitchens and bathrooms, Tiling and terraces. Plumbing, electrics and plastering, painting.
Architect service, building licence applications.
Handyman service now available for those smaller jobs.
Water Deposit Installations: Due to the ongoing drought and current water restrictions SPW Construction are currently offering the following service.
– Supply and installation of new above or below ground water deposits. 1000 litres up to 25000 litres. Delivered and installed, all relevant plumbing. All work warrantied.
– We can also advise you or help to organise water deliveries from local suppliers.
Selling Your House? SPW Construction can offer you a bespoke package to prepare your house for sale.
Through our extensive relationships with Agents, buyers and sellers we understand what is required to present your home to potential purchasers.
Interior & Exterior decoration / Replacement bathrooms and Kitchens
Pool Reforms / Garden tidy
DAFO Compliance, septic tanks, solar installations, etc.
Roof checks / Damp proofing
For free consultation and estimate contact us on 622938440
or email: scottparkwilson AT yahoo DOT co DOT uk
Scott/Arenas. Home Page and FB-Link
Our contact info is also in the DigameXtra Sponsor’s Section everyday.

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BUY / SELL / TRADE / RENT / WANTED

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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?
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RECOMMENDATIONS, REQUESTS, COMMENTS & SUBSCRIBER SOAPBOX

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NEWS & ARTICLES

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

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SPAIN

Shameless Electioneering By Using Imaginary Taxpayer Funds To Buy An Election– How Can Sanchez Continue To Give Away Millions In New Subsidies Every Month When He Has No Budget? New Student Grants Announced: {Translation, summary}
– The Spanish government led by Pedro Sanchez has announced the creation of the new Luisa Medrano Grants, reviving the Seneca programme abolished in 2013. These grants aim to promote student mobility between Spanish universities functioning as a domestic Erasmus scheme. Worth €8100 per student paid as a single sum the grants cover relocation costs for studying a full academic year in a different province with additional supplements for moves to or from the Balearic and Canary Islands.
– The programme has a dedicated budget of €18.8 million and is expected to benefit around 2300 students in its first year. However these funds do not exist in an administration without a budget, meaning the programme cannot proceed until a national budget is approved unless ‘alternate funding’, usually more public debt or EU recovery funds, can be allocated {Robbing Peter to pay Pedro? -Ed.}.
– Eligibility requires being an undergraduate who has completed 60 credits and awards are based primarily on academic grades with 5 per cent of places reserved for students with disabilities. Sanchez framed the initiative as investing in opportunities for all young people regardless of their birthplace. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/nacional/sanchez-anuncia-becas-900-euros-mes-para-universitarios-que-quieran-estudiar-otra-provincia-espanola_6943664_0.html

ANDALUCÍA

Flawed SAS Doctor Recruitment Endangers Rural Patients: {Translation, summary}
– The Andalusian Health Service (SAS) has received a total of 134 applications to fill 125 family doctor positions in underserved areas, as part of the first merit-based competition launched by the Andalusian Regional Government for this purpose. This initiative, focused on strengthening healthcare in rural areas and those with structural challenges, responds to the need to guarantee equitable access to health services in the autonomous community. The offer included a total of 364 positions for underserved areas. Of these, 187 were for Primary Care , divided between 125 positions for family doctors and 62 for pediatricians. The selection process, based on a merit-based competition without an examination phase, primarily valued professional experience—which accounted for 60% of the score—in addition to other merits, which made up the remaining 40%. Special consideration was given to prior experience in positions considered hard to fill.
– The Andalusian Health Service’s plan to fill 125 family doctor posts via a merit-based competition, with no opposition phase, is a deeply flawed and dangerous approach to medical recruitment. By valuing professional experience as 60 per cent of the score, the system prioritises longevity over demonstrable current competence, allowing complacent or outdated practitioners, often with inferior third world training, to secure permanent positions without rigorous testing.
– The absence of competitive examinations means there is no guarantee of up-to-date clinical knowledge or skills, potentially endangering patients in these rural areas.
– This process, designed to quickly cover hard-to-fill vacancies, sacrifices quality control for administrative convenience. With only 134 applications for 125 posts, barely more than one applicant per position, the figures expose a desperate shortage of interested candidates rather than healthy demand. Patients in remote communities deserve better than a system that lowers standards to fill posts, rather than ensuring only the most capable doctors treat them.
– {Minister Sanz {pic} misrepresented the situation in his public statement: ‘We have made great progress, but we are committed to achieving greater equality, so that all Andalusians, wherever they live, have the best healthcare,’ said Minister Sanz. This recruitment was a dismal failure, not nearly the “great progress” he claims. Having only 1.07 applicants for each position is a disasterous response. In addition, history shows most of those medical workers who are selected by the SAS decline the offer. They typically apply to several positions throughout Spain, public & private, and usually accept jobs elsewhere, with better pay and working conditions than the SAS offers. Minister Sanz, a lawyer with absolutely no medical training, is proving to be no better, and quite possible worse, than the failed Health minister he replaced! No wonder we see both the rapid growth of the private healthcare systems in Andalucia, and the constant medical worker strikes. -Ed.}
Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/andalucia/sanidad-recibe-134-solicitudes-125-plazas-medico-familia-zonas-dificil-cobertura/202603091249033225191.html

MALAGA CITY

36-year-old man in a coma after surprising a thief who was stealing from his car: {Translation, summary}
– A 36-year-old man remains in a coma and in critical condition after suffering a brutal attack in the Guadalmar area of Malaga, after surprising a thief who was allegedly stealing from his car. The victim is hospitalized at the Regional Hospital of Málaga after suffering a severe head injury caused by numerous blows with brass knuckles. Medical reports indicate that he remains on a ventilator due to the severity of his injuries.
– During the emergency room visit, doctors also discovered that he had a knife blade about seven centimetres long embedded in his skull, so he had to undergo surgery to remove it.
– The incident occurred in the early afternoon of Friday, March 6 , when the man went to retrieve his vehicle and caught an individual stealing from inside . When he confronted the suspect, the suspect reacted by attacking him with extreme violence. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/hombre-queda-coma-tras-sorprender-ladron-robando-en-su-coche-malaga/

TORROX

The mayor of Torrox demands urgent measures from the Spanish Government in response to the continuous power cuts in the municipality: {Translation, summary}
– The Mayor of Torrox has demanded urgent government action to stabilise the electricity supply after persistent power cuts caused public anger and damaged local businesses, with some firms losing up to 1,500 euros. He noted that provincial business groups have already warned the Prime Minister about the saturated power grid in Malaga, which threatens new commercial and industrial projects.
– The Mayor insisted residents and entrepreneurs cannot endure this instability, which disrupts daily life and the local economy, particularly in tourism and services. He called for immediate investment to reinforce the grid and prevent further occurrences. The Town Hall will keep pressing the authorities to secure proper infrastructure for the town’s economic and social development.
– {In Torrox Costa this past Saturday morning I experienced a 2hr power outage, followed by another 20min outage. -Ed.}
Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/el-alcalde-de-torrox-exige-al-gobierno-de-espana-medidas-urgentes-ante-los-continuos-cortes-de-luz-en-el-municipio/

VÉLEZ-MÁLAGA

Vélez-Málaga will hold the second edition of the Mule Stone Dragging Competition: {Translation, summary}
– The Second Stone Dragging with Mules Contest will take place on 21 March in Velez-Malaga, organised by the Horse Association with the Town Hall’s support, following last year’s success. Participants will demonstrate their skill in this traditional equine discipline. The event, featuring three mule size categories, will award prizes totalling 1,800 euros, with 300 euros for first place in each category.
– Festivities begin at 10:30 am at Santo Chiquito, including a lunch break, with the awards at 6:15 pm. Entry is 20 euros per animal. Councillor Jesus Maria Claros and association president Juan Carlos Marin highlighted the event’s role in celebrating local agricultural traditions and fostering community spirit, inviting families and horse enthusiasts to enjoy a day of competition and coexistence.
Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/velez-malaga-celebra-sabado-21-marzo-segunda-edicion-concurso-arrastre-piedras-con-mulos-en-santo-chiquito/

MIDDLE EAST

NATO defences with Spanish support intercept another Iranian missile in Turkish airspace: {Translation, summary}
– The conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate, with Nato intercepting a second Iranian ballistic missile over Turkey in a week, causing no casualties but prompting strong warnings from Ankara.
– Spanish forces deployed in Turkey participated in monitoring the device. Spain maintains a Patriot anti-missile defence system at the Incirlik air base, used by several Nato countries. The latest interception occurred amidst ongoing cross-border attacks between Israel and Iran, following a US-led offensive. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/las-defensas-otan-interceptan-otro-misil-irani-espacio-aereo-turquia_6943661_0.html

ENERGY CRISIS

Fears of an energy crisis due to the war in Iran send oil prices soaring above $100 and catapult gas prices higher: {Translation, summary}
– The escalating conflict involving Iran has triggered extreme volatility in commodity markets, with Brent crude oil surging well above $100 per barrel, spiking at $120 before a small retreat, for the first time since 2022, confirming analyst fears of a deepening energy crisis.
– This price spike stems from the effective closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil shipments, compounded by major producers including Iraq, the UAE, and Kuwait halting output due to storage constraints. The potential succession of Mojtaba Khamenei in Iran threatens to prolong regional instability. In response, G7 finance ministers, alongside Spain’s European partners, are considering an emergency release of strategic oil reserves coordinated by the International Energy Agency.
– US President Trump dismissed the price surge as a necessary cost for security, while his Energy Secretary confirmed no plans to target Iranian energy infrastructure despite repeated Israeli strikes on Iranian facilities. Spanish consumers face immediate consequences, with petrol prices approaching two euros per litre as crude’s near-40% rebound since the conflict’s onset filters through to the pumps. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/lainformacion/economia-y-finanzas/precio-petroleo-supera-los-100-dolares-por-barril-por-guerra-contra-iran_6943376_0.html

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Putin offers Europe to resume energy supplies if there is long-term cooperation: {Translation, summary}
– Russian President Vladimir Putin offered Europe a resumption of hydrocarbon supplies on Monday, expressing Moscow’s readiness for long-term energy cooperation free from political pressure. Speaking at a meeting with executives from Gazprom, Rosneft and Transneft, Putin framed the offer as a response to growing uncertainty over Middle Eastern energy supplies following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
– However, the Kremlin leader struck a defiant note, warning that Russia may pre-emptively suspend energy deliveries to Europe rather than wait for planned EU restrictions to take effect. Brussels intends to introduce additional curbs on Russian hydrocarbons, including liquefied natural gas, from April, with a possible full ban by 2027.
– Putin instructed the government to assess redirecting supplies to more attractive markets where demand is stable and relationships are solid. He cautioned that reorganising Middle Eastern oil flows to Europe without using the Strait of Hormuz is unrealistic, requiring significant time and infrastructure investment, and warned that lost volumes cannot be compensated quickly.
– The European Commission dismissed fears of shortages but expressed concern over potential price rises. G7 nations are considering coordinated releases from strategic reserves to monitor the situation closely. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/internacional/noticia-putin-ofrece-europa-retomar-suministro-energetico-si-hay-cooperacion-largo-plazo-20260309175137.html

TECH

This is why you should restart your mobile phone every week: {Translation, summary}
– Restarting your mobile phone at least once a week is a simple but effective measure recommended by the US National Security Agency (NSA) to prevent certain cyberattacks. Sophisticated threats like zero-click exploits, used by spyware such as Pegasus, can infect devices without any user interaction, simply by being powered on and connected. Rebooting interrupts malicious processes running in the background, clears temporary memory access, and forces attackers to re-establish their foothold, making persistent surveillance more difficult. This practice is part of broader digital hygiene, including regular software updates, strong passwords, and disabling Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use. Some experts, including the Australian Prime Minister, advocate for daily restarts to further reduce vulnerability. For high-risk individuals like journalists, additional precautions are advised. Instructions for properly restarting both iPhones and Android devices involve powering off completely and waiting at least 30 seconds before turning on again. {Do not use ‘restart’, shut down fully, then after a break you can restart it. Some sources suggest a 5min off time is better. -Ed.} Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/tecnologia/ciberseguridad/motivo-debes-reiniciar-movil-cada-semana-segun-agencia-seguridad-eeuu_5724355_0.html

FINANCIAL

Euribor hits 11-month high amid fears of inflation spike due to war in Iran: {Translation, summary}
– Escalating conflict in the Middle East, involving US and Iranian actions, is driving up the Euribor due to fears of a prolonged energy crisis and renewed inflation. The 12-month Euribor has reached its highest level in nearly a year, rising consistently since late February. This increase threatens to raise mortgage costs for households, many of which have recently enjoyed stable or falling payments. Potential borrowers also face higher interest rates, which could cool the property market. The outlook depends on the conflict’s duration and its impact on energy prices. While some analysts predict a short conflict, sustained high energy costs could force the ECB to raise interest rates further, a possibility already being priced in by financial markets. Spanish households with mortgages could be directly affected by these Euribor-linked increases. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/lainformacion/economia-y-finanzas/euribor-alcanza-maximos-11-meses-por-miedo-un-repunte-inflacion-por-guerra-iran_6943635_0.html

OTHER

SPECIAL FEATURED ARTICLE – EU Takes Another Step Towards Communism- Von der Leyen believes the EU “can no longer rely” on a rules-based system and questions whether it is “an obstacle”: {Translation in full}
– The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has stated that the European Union “can no longer rely” on an international system based on rules as “the only way” to defend its interests against threats, and has even questioned whether it is “more of a help or a hindrance” to the credibility of the Community bloc as a geopolitical actor. In an address at the annual conference of EU ambassadors held this Monday in Brussels, the head of the Community Executive argued that Europe “can no longer be the guardian of the old world order” and of a world “that is already gone and will not return,” despite always supporting the rules-based system built after the Second World War. “We will always defend and support the rules-based system we helped build with our allies, but we can no longer rely on it as the only way to defend our interests, nor assume that its rules will protect us from the complex threats we face,” the German conservative maintained.
– Von der Leyen called for an “urgent” reflection on whether the doctrine and the “decision-making processes” designed “in a post-war world characterised by stability and multilateralism” have kept pace “with the changes around us” and whether the international rules-based order “is more of a help or a hindrance to the EU’s credibility as a geopolitical actor.”
– After admitting that her message “is tough” and that behind it lies “a difficult conversation,” she called for “building” a European path of “its own” and finding “new ways to cooperate” with its partners, on the basis that the EU needs “a more realistic foreign policy guided by interests.”
SHE SEES DEBATE OVER THE ORIGIN OF THE WAR AS STERILE
– The Community president called for not entering into debate over whether the open war in the Middle East following the attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran was “necessary” or “chosen,” while also arguing that “no tears should be shed” for the Tehran regime, which has inflicted “death” and “repression” on its own people. “You will hear different opinions on whether the conflict in Iran is a chosen war or a necessary war. But I believe this debate partly misses the central point. Because Europe must focus on the reality of the situation, see the world as it is today,” she argued.
– That being so, she recalled that “many Iranians, inside the country and across Europe and the world,” have celebrated the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, just as many other people throughout the region “hope that this moment could open a path towards a free Iran.” “The people of Iran deserve freedom, dignity and the right to decide their own future, even if we know that this process will be full of danger and instability during and after the war,” the German politician continued during her speech.
– However, Von der Leyen warned of the “unintended” consequences of the conflict initiated by the United States and Israel on 28 February, an event which in her view raises “existential questions” about the future of the international rules-based order or about how Europe “finds unity in these situations.” “The ripple effect is already a reality today, whether in energy and finance, trade and transport, or the displacement of people,” she observed, also recalling the attack on a British military base in Cyprus or citizens caught in the crossfire in the region. And since Europe “will be affected by what happens in the world,” she rejected the idea of “simply retreating and withdrawing from this chaotic world” as it seems to her “a fallacy.” “I believe it is vital that we understand this as we shape our foreign policy for the next year,” she addressed the ambassadors.
DEBATE ON UNANIMITY AND SUPPORT FOR UKRAINE
– On another matter, the head of the Community Executive referred to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, warning that “Europe will always stand with Ukraine, no matter what happens elsewhere,” and will focus its efforts on ensuring “this horror and this bloodshed end.” But the war, in her opinion, “must end in a way that does not sow the seeds of future conflicts,” so they will continue working to achieve a peace agreement that guarantees “true long-term security” for Kyiv.
– What Ukraine needs now, she added, is “sustained financial support,” and in this context she referred to the 90 billion euro loan blocked by Budapest to finance the financial needs of Ukraine, with Hungary justifying it as a response to Kyiv blocking the passage of Russian crude oil to Hungary via the Druzhba pipeline.
– “You have seen the difficulties we have faced in getting it through, even after the 27 leaders gave their approval. This brings us back to the point of whether our system is still capable of delivering results efficiently,” she stated in this regard, assuring that the EU “will meet its commitments” because its credibility and security depend on it. After questioning the unanimity system governing EU foreign policy decision-making, she applied “the same logic” to the enlargement of the Community bloc, stressing that despite the debate on how this process should be merit-based, it is of “paramount importance” to treat it as “a matter of common interest and security for Europe.” Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/internacional/noticia-von-der-leyen-cree-ue-ya-no-puede-confiar-sistema-basado-reglas-cuestiona-si-obstaculo-20260309111037.html

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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

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EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com

Click here to see updated quotes & more currencies

Last updated Mar 10, 2026, 02:07 GMT +1

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Fun & Games

Useful Links, Info & Numbers

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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Axarquia Silver & Gold Trade +34-606423869

FB Page & Home Page

Home Page – Based in Torrox Costa, near the bus station.

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DigameXtra No. 3201 Monday, March 9th, 2026

On March 9, 2026March 9, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

SUBMISSIONS INFO & RULES PAGE LINK

DONATIONS INFO PAGE LINK

*Subscribe to receive free daily issues by email. To subscribe, please send me an email with the message “subscribe me to DigameXtra” from the email account you want subscribed.

*By making a submission you are indicating you have read and agree to follow the rules. RULES PAGE LINK: https://digamextra.com/about/

*Send your submissions & subscription requests to digamextra@protonmail.com

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WHAT’S ON

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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~
March
– 19th – Table Top Sale – Call if you have something to sell.
– 27th – Trip to IKEA/Plaza Mayor & Guzmans Garden Centre €20pp. If you prefer to stay at IKEA or Plaza Mayor we will pick you up on the way home
April
– 7th – Easter trip to Gibraltar, €20pp
– 26th/29th April – Mini break to Cadiz. Staying in the 4* Senator Spa Hotel (this hotel could change if we get a better deal). 3 nights, 4 days. Price includes ½ board Accommodation, wine with meals, drivers tip and 2 trips to Medina Sidonia and Jerez. €415 pp based on 2 sharing a double room. Single Occupancy €585. Deposit €150 pp non refundable unless the club cancels the trip. Travel Insurance required.
May
– 15th – Trip to the Baelo Claudia Roman Ruins with lunch in Tarifa. Price €35 pp excludes lunch
June
– 2nd – Trip to Gib €22pp
– 10th – Trip to Estepona on Market day and a visit to the Orchid House. Price €25. Entry to the Orchid House is 3€ pp not included
July
– 3rd – Visit to the Victoria Brewery AM, Car Museum PM. Lunch in the port area of Malaga not included in the price.
Price 32€pp includes entry to both Museums
For information call Gail on 951067723/626370695 (Whatsapp) email phoenixsocialclub@yahoo.co.uk.
We are DigameXtra sponsors and our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.

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Donkey Rescue Fundraiser – UK Mother’s Day Afternoon High Tea:
Sunday 15th March
Donkey Dreamland Rescue Center, La Cala de Mijas
Info & res: https://donkeydreamland.com/events/ & MAP

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Blues Concert On Sale Now- The Mama Paula Blues Band, Sat, 11 April, 7:30pm, with very special guests Dr. Paul Moonlight Blues on Harp + Richard Ray Farrell on Guitar & Vocals.
Salon Varietes Theater, Fuengirola
Info & tix (€20): https://salonvarietestheatre.com/live/show-details.php?id_show=837

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Sun and Snow Weekend Festival 2026 – Granada:
Fri – Sun, 17 – 19 April
Estación De Esquí Sierra Nevada, Granada
DJs & Acts: DVS1, Frankie Bones, Kanding Ray, Legowelt Live, Marco Bailey, Matrixxman, Kittin, Onur Özer, Orbe, Unai Trotti, Z@P, Alvaro Medina, Chris Gorrie, Gabi, Junior, Revix, Rober Peinado, Sikar, Techcnisje Loef.
Info & tix: https://sunandsnowweekend.com/ (Note: Ticket sales are blocked for some VPN users)

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Almuñécar’s Municipal Market Reopens Tues, 10 March:
– With 44 stalls, and a 230 space parking lot.

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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/

Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details

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Latest Weather Alerts & Advisories For Andalucia: https://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos?k=and

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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. Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!

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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. We are DigameXtra sponsors and our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.

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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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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:
Why stay local when you can go…to Texas!
BluCee Real Estate
International buyers, local expertise.
We’re excited to announce that on 28th-29th March 2026, we’ll be in Texas, introducing local properties to a brand-new audience of American buyers.
Local homes. Global marketing.
Thinking of selling? Let’s talk. Contact us before 20th March 2026 and we’ll saddle up and promote your property in Texas.
A free, honest property valuation. No pressure, just professional advice.
Email: info@blucee.com Web: 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:
***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. We are DigameXtra sponsors and our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.

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For Sale: 8x sturdy, heavy steel work tables with thick wooden tops. 70cms x 50cms. Ideal for anyone offering creative workshops, for example. (Not all have wood on lower shelves.) 15€ each. Buyer collects.
Nick, La Herradura
keelsway at yahoo dot co dot uk

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RECOMMENDATIONS, REQUESTS, COMMENTS & SUBSCRIBER SOAPBOX

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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NEWS & ARTICLES

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

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SPAIN

The US continues to use the Rota and Morón bases in Andalucia for Iran War support, while Sánchez continues talking about his ‘no to war’ claiming the bases are not facilitating war support– Which is it Pedro?: {Translation, summary}
– Pedro Sánchez publicly opposes the use of Spanish bases for the US-led war effort against Iran, yet evidence suggests American military activity from these facilities contradicts his stance. Between late February and early March, over 20 US warplanes departed from Rota and Morón en route to the conflict zone, refuelling at bases in Italy and Germany. Additionally, two US destroyers from Rota, the USS Roosevelt and USS Bulkeley, have joined Operation Epic Fury in the eastern Mediterranean to support Israel’s defence against Iranian missiles. A fifth destroyer remains stationed at Rota, with a sixth expected in 2026. Furthermore, Washington has allocated 15 million dollars to expand and refurbish these bases, signalling a long-term commitment.
– Despite Sánchez’s claims of prohibiting direct involvement, the logistical support and military movements indicate de facto participation. His denial appears aimed at domestic political consumption, clashing with the reality of ongoing US operations from Spanish territory and investment in the facilities. Source, Spanish: https://www.libertaddigital.com/espana/politica/2026-03-07/eeuu-refuerza-su-presencia-en-las-bases-de-rota-y-moron-mientras-sanchez-sigue-hablando-de-su-no-a-la-guerra-7370409/

ANDALUCÍA

Antequera expresses its “total rejection” of the green hydrogen plant between Antequera and Almogía: {Translation, summary}
– The community organization ‘Plataforma Sur del Torcal’ {pic} with a platform opposing a green hydrogen plant proposed for land near El Torcal, spanning the municipal districts of Antequera and Almogía, is satisfied after Antequera’s mayor and council voiced total rejection of the project. Municipal technicians have found anomalies and incompatibilities with urban planning and special protection rules, potentially rendering it unviable. The council has already filed objections, with the mayor vowing to fight the plan to the end, possibly in court, though he considers the project’s own complexities and impacts make it unworkable. Residents are maintaining their campaign, submitting further objections before Monday’s deadline and setting up an information tent at a local event. They stress the need to protect the biodiversity and world heritage site of El Torcal and its surroundings. Concerns also include the project’s large scale, covering 542 hectares, and its potential high water consumption. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/antequera/antequera-muestra-rechazo-total-planta-hidrogeno-torcal_0_2006090857.html

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73% of recipients and beneficiaries of the Minimum Living Income in Andalusia are women: {Translation, summary}
– The Minimum Living Income (IMV) has strengthened its presence in Andalusia during February 2026, reaching 253,954 households and benefiting a total of 788,181 people, according to the most recent report published by the National Social Security Institute (INSS). The average monthly benefit per family is €520, which has raised the total disbursement for this month to €148.28 million.
– The predominant profile among those receiving the Minimum Living Income (IMV) is female, according to the government. Women represent 73.6% of household heads (187,073 recipients) and 53% of all beneficiaries (418,323 people). Women head 96% of single-parent households receiving the benefit, and they receive an additional 22% supplement.
– In February 2026 , Andalusia registered an increase of 36,360 active benefits compared to the same period of the previous year. This growth represents a 16.7% increase over last February. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/sociedad/mas-73-personas-titulares-beneficiarias-ingreso-minimo-vital-andalucia-son-mujeres/202603071218043224481.html

MALAGA PROVINCE

One hundred years in prison for the ‘madame’ who used voodoo to prostitute minors in Malaga: {Translation, summary}
– A Nigerian criminal gang based in Malaga, which used voodoo rituals to coerce at least five minors and ten young women into prostitution, has been dismantled. The victims were recruited with false promises of legitimate work, then subjected to a voodoo ceremony to bind them to a debt for their travel. Once in Malaga, this threat was used to force them into “marathon” prostitution sessions at the Guadalhorce industrial estate. The organisation maintained control through violence, confinement, and threats against families in Nigeria.
– Such was the psychological grip of the voodoo curse that several victims, even after being rescued by police and placed in protective care, fled and returned to their captors.
– The Provincial Court has sentenced the eleven members to a combined total of 439 years in prison for human trafficking and coercive prostitution. According to the ruling, the principal ‘madame’ and ringleader alone will serve 104 years in prison for eleven counts of human trafficking – five involving minors and six with adults – and coercive prostitution. The Chamber has imposed sentences on the other ten defendants ranging from 87 years to ten years’ internment in a penitentiary.
Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/sucesos/cien-anos-prision-madame-usaba-vudu-prostituir-20260306101721-nt_amp.html

NERJA

Nerja demolishes the old Narixa nightclub to build a panoramic viewpoint and access to El Salón beach: {Translation, summary}
– The building that once housed the former Narixa nightclub in Nerja is being demolished to make way for the transformation of Tajillo Street, where a new panoramic viewpoint will be built next to El Salón beach. This urban development project will mark the beginning of the transformation of this site, located in a strategic area of the municipality. The plot, situated in the heart of Nerja’s tourist hub, will become a future panoramic viewpoint with a new pedestrian access to El Salón beach and the Chanquete viewpoint. Source, Spanish: https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/axarquia/2026/03/08/nerja-demolicion-antigua-discoteca-narixa-mirador-127698557.html

CÓMPETA

Boundaries confirmed– between Canillas de Albaida & Cómpeta, and between Málaga city and Totalán; the Junta updates its municipal boundaries after 150 years: {Translation, summary}
– The Andalusian Regional Government has officially approved the georeferencing of the boundary line between Canillas de Albaida and Cómpeta in the Axarquía region, using the modern ETRS89 cartographic system. This process does not alter the original 1874 demarcation but updates it for legal certainty in planning and fiscal matters. Objections from Cómpeta council, concerned about effects on properties registered under different limits, were rejected as cadastral data lacks legal validity for territorial boundaries. The line is declared definitive and unalterable.
– In a separate but similar case, the boundary between Málaga city and Totalán, based on 19th-century records, has also been georeferenced following technical reviews. Both updates will be incorporated into the official Andalusian cartographic database. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/axarquia/nuevas-lindes-canillas-albaida-competa-junta-actualiza-20260302132425-nt_amp.html

MIDDLE EAST

The war intensifies and spreads- Israel attacks Lebanon and Iran, Iran bombs Kuwait and Bahrain and reports captured US soldiers: {Translation + Update}
– The war between the US and Israel against Iran has spread to other parts of the Middle East, where neighbouring Persian Gulf countries are already speaking of a dangerous escalation. The Israeli army has once again struck Tehran, targeting several fuel depots that, according to them, were used by the Iranian armed forces to “operate military infrastructure,” leaving the capital’s sky filled with a dense, toxic cloud of black smoke. The airport of Isfahan has also become a target, with Israeli forces bombing Iranian F-14 fighter jets.
– Israel has continued its bombing campaign in Lebanon, where at least 25 people were killed and several others wounded overnight Saturday into Sunday in attacks on various towns in southern Lebanon and the capital, Beirut, according to the Lebanese National News Agency. In Beirut, Lebanese authorities reported an Israeli attack on a hotel in which four people were killed and eight others wounded. These latest casualties add to the more than 40 who died on Saturday in eastern Lebanon.
– Iran, for its part, has extended its retaliatory strikes to other Gulf countries, despite President Masoud Pezeshkian’s statement on Saturday that his country had decided to end attacks against neighboring countries unless attacked from those territories—a gesture the US has labeled a surrender, drawing internal criticism. On Sunday, Iran struck US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, where authorities also reported attacks targeting civilian infrastructure, including a desalination plant, and injuring three people. In a new statement, Pezeshkian clarified that the US ” has misinterpreted my words, and the reality is that we will not allow them to seize even a single inch of our country’s soil.” The head of Iran’s National Security Council, Ali Larijani, stated on Saturday that “several” US military personnel had been taken prisoner, although he did not provide further details.
– Regarding the succession to the assassinated Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Assembly of Experts has already chosen the country’s new Supreme Leader. “The leadership election has already taken place, and the leader has been determined,” said Ayatollah Ahmad Alamolhoda, a member of the assembly. It is now up to Ayatollah Hashem Hosseini Bushehri, head of the Assembly of Experts’ secretariat, to “publicly announce the decision” of the clerics. {UPDATE, Monday 2am: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s son Mojtaba Khamenei {pic} named Iran’s next supreme leader. While Mojtaba has been the favoured successor of Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Trump condemned the appointment as “unacceptable” for the US and vowed it would not bring an end to the war. Ref: https://nypost.com/2026/03/08/world-news/mojtaba-khamenei-named-irans-next-supreme-leader/ } Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/guerra-iran-ultima-hora-noticias-ataque-israel-eeuu-directo-trump-teheran-netanyahu_6943209_6.html

ENERGY CRISIS

Spain’s Renewable Revolution Hits a Wall- The Grid Has No ‘Shock Absorbers’: {Translation, summary}
– On 28 January, a partial blackout affected large Spanish industries for two hours, while sparing residential supplies, highlighting the electricity system’s vulnerability. This incident, following last year’s widely reported general blackout and subsequent stoppages, occurred amidst tensions with the USA, a key supplier of natural gas.
– Engineer Juan Franco’s analysis paints a bleak picture: the system, driven by EU regulations and the Spanish government’s ambitious green transition targets, is not fit for purpose. The push for 81% renewable energy by 2030 is eroding grid stability by replacing conventional, manageable power sources with intermittent wind and solar. This reduces system inertia and makes balancing supply and demand difficult. Franco argues that technologies like pumped hydro and flywheels are now crucial strategic assets to stabilise the grid, acting as structural batteries and first-line defences against frequency fluctuations. He urges quick administrative action for new pumped storage projects and wider deployment of synchronous compensators.
– The future requires hybridising these technologies and creating clear market signals to attract private investment. Without these indispensable stability measures, the transition to a fully renewable system is technically and economically unviable. The analysis, however, overlooks the role of nuclear power, which the government plans to phase out– this despite the USA and most western European countries embracing nuclear power again, as the only way to power the ravenous data centers that all the governments are touting. Source, Spanish: https://www.libertaddigital.com/libremercado/2026-03-07/el-sistema-electrico-se-apunta-otro-apagon-parcial-y-evidencia-su-vulnerabilidad-en-plena-amenaza-del-gas-de-eeuu-7370345/

SPORTS

MMA News- UFC’s White House card led by Spain’s Ilia Topuria vs USA’s Justin Gaethje, on June 14th, outdoors on the South Lawn of the White House:
– The UFC’s highly anticipated live event at the White House will be headlined by a pair of title fights, the promotion announced Saturday night. A lightweight title fight between undisputed champion Ilia Topuria and interim title holder Justin Gaethje will serve as the main event, and two-weight UFC champion Alex Pereira will seek an unprecedented third belt when he faces Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight championship in the co-main event.
– UFC officials announced the matchups during the UFC 326 broadcast. The White House event, which the promotion has dubbed UFC Freedom Fights 250, is set to take place June 14, which coincides with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday. The event is also meant to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary.
– Four other fights will round out the White House event: a bantamweight bout between Sean O’Malley and Aiemann Zahabi, a lightweight bout between Mauricio Ruffy and Michael Chandler, a middleweight bout between Bo Nickal and Kyle Daukaus, and a featherweight bout between Diego Lopes and Steve Garcia.
– Topuria (17-0), a 29-year-old native of Spain, is a two-weight champion and widely considered one of the most dangerous knockout artists in the sport. He successfully moved up from featherweight in June and won the UFC’s 155-pound championship with a first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira. Full article: https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/48138882/ufc-white-house-card-led-topuria-gaethje-pereira-gane

HEALTH

Private healthcare in Malaga could match public healthcare in terms of beds by 2028: {Translation, summary}
– Private healthcare in Malaga province is growing significantly faster than the public system, holding 42% of hospital beds now compared to 35% twenty years ago, while the public share has fallen to 58%.
– The CCOO union predicts the private sector could equal or surpass public bed numbers by 2028, having added nearly three times more beds in the last five years. Major groups Quirónsalud, Vithas and HM Hospitales are driving this expansion, with HM planning to double its capacity within two years through new hospitals in Vélez-Málaga and near Malaga’s La Rosaleda stadium.
– Meanwhile, the public system has lost around 180 beds over two decades and awaits promised infrastructure like the Virgen de la Esperanza hospital, not expected until at least 2032. Unions warn of underused public facilities and a “transfer” of patients to private insurance, with 30% of the population now holding policies and concessions increasingly diverting profitable surgeries to the private sector. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/sanidad-malaga-alcanzara-camas-privada-2028_0_2006082672.html

SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES

*Click links to read the English language articles*

– Malaga reservoirs have released four years worth of water after heavy storms
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/the-dams-malaga-have-already-released-the-20260306092548-nt.html
– Junta warns of another wave of fraudulent texts urging health card renewals
https://www.surinenglish.com/andalucia/the-andalusian-regional-government-warns-new-wave-20260306110701-nt.html

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OBITUARIES

Country Joe McDonald, Woodstock Star Who Found Counterculture Fame With ‘I-Feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-to-Die Rag,’ Dies at 84:
– “Country Joe” McDonald, who fronted the band Country Joe and the Fish and became an emblem of the 1960s antiwar counterculture through a prominent appearance at the Woodstock festival, died Saturday at age 84. The singer, born Joseph Allen McDonald, died of Parkinson’s in Berkeley, according to a statement on the group’s social media and reported sources close to his wife.
– McDonald’s best known song was “I-Feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-to-Die Rag,” a Vietnam protest song he performed at the 1969 Woodstock Festival. The performance included the infamous call-and-response “Fish Cheer,” which had the audience spelling out the F-word at McDonald’s behest. Full article: https://variety.com/2026/music/obituaries-people-news/country-joe-mcdonald-dead-fishwoodstock-singer-1236681876/ & Video Link 1 & Video Link 2 & Video Link 3

Country Joe & the Fish – Vietnam Song (“I-Feel-Like-I’m-Fixin’-to-Die Rag,”) – Live Woodstock 1969 – Full HD Video

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Country Joe & The Fish – Rock & Soul Music *live at Woodstock HD

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Country Joe & The Fish – Konserthuset, Stockholm, Sweden, Nov 17 1968 – Full Performance (Film):

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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

Free Comic Strips provided by https://www.arcamax.com/comics

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EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com

Click here to see updated quotes & more currencies

Last updated Mar 8, 2026, 15:58 UTC

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Fun & Games

Useful Links, Info & Numbers

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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DigameXtra No. 3200 WEEKEND EDITION Friday, March 6th, 2026

On March 6, 2026March 5, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

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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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WHAT’S ON

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41 CLUB NERJA

41 Club Nerja Going From Strength to Strength:
– 41 Club Nerja is delighted to report that we really are going from strength to strength, our membership continues to grow and our doors are open for more new members to join our vibrant Club.
– Do you remember in your local communities all the events that the Round Table and 41 Club organised? Yes! that’s us!
– Do you love getting out and about in our beautiful Axarquia area and also like the idea of being with people who enjoy life and help the local community too? Well, that’s also us! So please come along, meet us, see how we do things, and you don’t even need to have been a member previously.
– We enjoy a wide variety of exciting activities, interesting meetings and tasty meals in many of the lovely restaurants we have in our local area. Our get togethers are attended by our members (who hail from ten different countries) as well as our partners, guests, friends and family too. We’re a very friendly bunch.
To get in touch you can
Email us: briankaret@sky.com
Phone Brian on +34 643510605
You can connect with 41 Club Nerja via Facebook.
Or visit our website to find out more at: https://41clubnerja.org/
We’d love to hear from you and we’d also love for you to come along and join in the fun!

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Spring Gastronomic Days in Casabermeja:
Fri – Sun, 6 – 8 Mar
Participating restaurants and establishments offer tasting menus for 18 euros made with seasonal and local ingredients, or you can also choose between tapas and portions.
In addition, you can visit a product market with oils, cheeses, honey and handicrafts, among other items from producers in the region from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Likewise, the Casa de la Cabra Malagueña will hold open days, with visiting hours from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the morning and from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the afternoon.
Among the various activities planned are tastings of Malaga cheeses, ceramic workshops offered by the ceramics museum or a visit to the Molino de Hortelano museum/oil mill. For the little ones there will be face painting and crafts in Llanete de Arriba, where there will also be traditional games.
Info: https://www.casabermejaturismo.es/es/

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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/

Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details

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Warning Note: Possible high winds on Malaga & Granada Coasts until 1pm Friday. Alerts shown below.

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Latest Weather Alerts & Advisories For Andalucia: https://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos?k=and

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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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TONY ROAM TRANSPORT & REMOVALS

Tony Roam Transport & Removals Spain To UK To Spain:
Fortnightly Runs Spain to UK and Up to 4 weeks free Storage. Spain or UK.
18 years Removals To & Fro Spain / UK Spain.
Man & Van, Local & Long Distance Removals
No subcontracting, all collection and delivery in house.
Transportation, Removals & light haulage company that have scheduled trips all year from UK to Torrox and back every month.
Also additional unscheduled to suit your needs.
Full or part loads undertaken.
Dedicated Delivery Personal Service Full or Part loads up to 60 cubic meters up to 5.5 tonne.
Up to £25,000.00 insurance with British Insurance Company.
Evidence of insurance can be supplied by email on request.
Hard Copies always carried on the vans.
This and a current Operators licence are a legal requirement.
Our International Operators Licence No UKGB / OG2043664
We live just behind Torrox Pueblo in Spain and in South Wales UK and have vans going back and forth UK to Spain to UK by way of Santander or Bilbao / Portsmouth or Plymouth Ferry.
For more information and prices for all to see please visit our website http://www.tonyroamremovals.com
email ; tonyroam@btconnect.com
Spain 0034636393542 – UK 00447973362003.
Face book Tony Roam – WhatsApp Either Number
Our contact details are shown every day in the Sponsor’s Section.

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GREEK CASITA RESTAURANT & BAR

The Greek House – Greek Casita Restaurant & Bar –Torrox Costa: Now with Sunday Lunch!
Located on the sea promenade, between the Safari bar and Picadero restaurants, BLQ 80 bajo. We offer you a little piece of Greece with our Greek home made specialities. You can choose meat specialties (Gyros, Souvlaki, Bifteki, Sutsukaki, Moussaka), cheese (Feta Psiti, Feta Saganaki, Hallumi), vegetables (Greek salad, Hummus, Eggplant cream, Mezze, Tzatziki) or sea fruits (prawns or octopus), all of this accompanied with our special Greek pita bread. For dessert… HOMEMADE BAKLAVA! We offer a lovely meal time in a quiet and exquisite atmosphere, accompanied with the best Greek music. See you soon! Hours: 6:30pm to close, Wednesday thru Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday. For reservations call 642585049. https://la-casita-griega.business.site/ We are DigameXtra sponsors, so our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.

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ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES & JUBILEE HOUSE

ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES IN THE AXARQUIA REGION:
Do you have health or mobility issues?
Would support enable you to remain independent in your own home?
Liz Brown, probably the only nurse registered to practice in Andalucia to hold the ENB 941 (Specialist qualification in care of the older person), together with her fully insured and police checked home care support team offers one-on-one support and companionship in the comfort of your own home. COE Malaga reg. 17425
HOME CARE/NURSE SUPPORT
Palliative care / Companionship / Health monitoring English Nurse / Hospital sitting / Respite at home / 24 hr live in care / Housekeeping / Correspondence & Communication / Medication collection & dispensing systems / Dressing, bathing & daily hygiene / Shopping & meal preparation / Fast response Falls Team / Provision of medical equipment such as wheelchairs and hoists
Email: info@englishnurse.care ; Website: https://englishnurse.live-website.com/
Tel: 951550581 or 692419548
JUBILEE HOUSE – Close Care Unit in Torrox
5 ground floor individual units all en-suite
24-hour care at all stages from the English Nurse Care Team
Main language- English / Extensive sea views / Wheelchair accessible / Garden / Home cooking / Wifi / Air conditioning / Visiting physiotherapist, hairdresser, chiropodist and nutritionist
And we welcome guests for the day. Email: jubileehousetorrox@gmail.com
VACANCY- We are now able to accept a couple in spacious accommodation with en-suite facilities. Unique nurse-led facility, offering 1st class personalised care packages, tailored to individual needs. We support independent living. We have a dedicated, compassionate team of English speaking staff, visiting physio, chiropodist, hairdresser.
To discuss your requirements or to arrange to view our beautiful accommodation on Torrox Costa please call Liz (RGN/Enferma-Malaga College) on ‪+34 692419548
We are DigameXtra sponsors, so our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.

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DOCTORLAPTOP’S COMPUTER REPAIRS & SALES

DoctorLaptop’s Full Maintenance Clean & TuneUp: Common consumer level anti-virus programs are ineffective against today’s AI generated malware! Identity theft & home title theft are on the rise in Malaga– Every week I see a few clients with hacked computers who thought, “Well, it seemed to be running ok”. Take responsibility for your digital security or you’ll only have yourself to blame when your accounts get hijacked.
If you rely on your computer and want it running at peak performance, free of malware, password stealers, data collectors and trackers, an annual professional servicing is necessary. You wouldn’t drive your car till it runs out of oil before servicing it, would you? I do the most comprehensive cleaning and tune-up possible: verify all System files replacing any found to be corrupt, test all hardware and do hard disk sector repairs if needed, use 5 tool malware/adware/spyware/tracker removal protocol, clean out junk files/logs/history/etc., update Windows+all drivers+programs and finally optimize your settings and registry for fastest overall performance.
Heavily infected comps, computers taking more than 2 minutes to startup or shutdown, or showing error messages– those need a repair, not a maintenance service, ask for rates. HDD hard disks of 1000Gb or more add €10.
DoctorLaptop’s Computer Repairs- Torrox Costa
Windows & Linux computers only. No tablets or phones.
I don’t work on computers made before 2019 unless I have been servicing then annually.
Contact: doctorlaptop AT protonmail DOT com
or call 675 993 069 (no calls before 12noon, missed calls returned asap). Always include the make & model number of the device when requesting assistance.

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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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For Sale: 9x Danish 2030Box Single Beds.
Central sprung area. No need for additional mattress. Mattress topper included. Very clean.
Translation of label in photo: “Double spring box mattress with quilted sides. Bottom spring layer consists of 150 pcs.
Bonnell springs (1.9) per m2 and top spring layer consists of 114 pcs. Bonnell springs (2.2) per m2. 25 mm foam padding.”
Reason for sale – don’t need – they came with the house and I need the space.
Will sell individually 20€ or 160€ for all 9. Buyer collects.
Nick, La Herradura
keelsway at yahoo dot co dot uk

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RECOMMENDATIONS, REQUESTS, COMMENTS & SUBSCRIBER SOAPBOX

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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NEWS & ARTICLES

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

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News Tip: If you go to the La Razon news website and are blocked by a subscription form popup, just click on LA RAZON in the upper left corner. That clears the subscription request and allows you full access to the website.

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SPAIN

The Latest Spanish Train Scandal– Adamuz Derailment Evidence Tampering: {Translation, summary}
– Mario Samper, spokesman for the platform representing those affected by the Adamuz railway accident, has called for an end to any further contamination, concealment of evidence, or falsification of data relating to the disaster. He expressed his confidence in the justice system to ensure a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation. Samper was speaking on the same day that the black boxes from the two trains involved were opened in Madrid. The crash, which occurred on Sunday, 18 January, killed 46 people and injured over 120.
– Samper stated that while the black box data would provide technical details, the broad outline of what happened was already known. He criticised the Administrator of Railway Infrastructures for removing material from the site without judicial authorisation, an act he described as illegal and damaging to the investigation’s integrity. He expressed outrage that a company could interfere with evidence in this way.
– The spokesman also noted that a week after the platform’s formation, which now has over 180 members, there has been no official contact with any administration beyond the provincial level. However, he welcomed the Andalusian regional government’s decision to join the legal proceedings, hoping it would increase pressure to uncover the truth. While the victims understand the legal process will be lengthy, their primary concern is preventing any further interference with the evidence. Samper concluded by expressing scepticism that anyone would ultimately assume political responsibility for the accident, but confirmed the platform would continue to demand it. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/andalucia/noticia-victimas-adamuz-piden-no-haya-mas-contaminacion-falsificacion-pruebas-confiamos-justicia-20260305091000.html

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The Financial Times wonders if Sánchez “is about to suffer Trump’s wrath” for having gone “too far” against the US: {Translation, summary}
– The Spanish Prime Minister’s escalating confrontation with Donald Trump over the Iran war has raised questions about whether he has overreached. Beyond blocking US use of Spanish military bases for strikes on Iran, Sanchez has issued harsh condemnations of American and Israeli actions, comparing them to the 2003 Iraq invasion. Most audaciously, he has insinuated that some leaders use war to distract from domestic failures, a charge of breath-taking hypocrisy from a politician who habitually invents external conflicts to conceal his own difficulties at home.
– After years of latent tension, Sanchez now stands as the only EU leader openly defying Trump, a stance that has made him a convenient symbol for the MAGA movement’s critique of a European left perceived as soft on defence, China and migration. The confrontation has attracted criticism from figures like Elon Musk.
– Yet domestically, the calculation appears cynically effective. Picking a fight with Trump has proven popular with Sanchez’s left-wing base and even with some otherwise unsympathetic Spanish voters. Whether this short-term political gain justifies provoking a sitting American president, potentially jeopardising a long-standing military alliance while causing economic chaos, remains the unanswered question.
Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/financial-times-se-pregunta-si-sanchez-esta-punto-sufrir-ira-trump-por-haber-ido-demasiado-lejos-contra-eeuu_6942165_0.html

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Sanchez proclaims “No to war!”… Then Spain sends a military frigate to Cyprus, after denying its involvement in the war against Iran, already has 1000 troops in war zone: {Translation, summary}
– Spain is deploying its most advanced frigate, the ‘Cristóbal Colón’, to Cyprus alongside the French carrier ‘Charles de Gaulle’ and Greek naval vessels. The ship, which recently completed Baltic exercises, will provide air defence and support potential evacuations, complementing Spanish Patriot batteries in Turkey. Defence Minister Margarita Robles confirmed the mission, framing it as Spain’s commitment to EU defence and its eastern border. – The deployment coincidently follows a diplomatic clash in which the White House claimed Spain had agreed to cooperate with the US military, a statement both the Foreign Minister and Defence Minister later publicly denied. However, Robles also noted that in addition to the frigate deployment, Spain’s other military contributions to the Iran war effort include 1,000 troops stationed in Lebanon and Iraq. Source, Spanish: https://www.larazon.es/espana/espana-envia-fragata-militar-chipre-negar-participacion-guerra-iran_2026030569a94ea66cf703292f62313d.html

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Sanchez makes unwise statements for political gain and citizens pay the price– did he forget more than 44% of gas delivered to Spain comes from the US?: {Translation, summary}
– A diplomatic dispute between Spain and the US, triggered by Spain’s refusal to let US forces use its bases in the Iran conflict, threatens nearly €47 billion in bilateral trade. While exports like wine and machinery are at risk, Spain’s greater vulnerability lies in energy, as the US is now its primary gas supplier.
– In January, US gas imports jumped to 44.4% of the total, surpassing Algeria. Experts warn that the US could pressure companies to halt energy exports to Spain, forcing it into costly competition with Asian buyers for alternative supplies from Algeria or Nigeria, particularly dangerous amid the Middle East war and potential Strait of Hormuz disruption.
– Although EU trade deals offer some protection, Spain’s limited gas connection with France heightens its exposure. A Spanish law caps any single supplier at 50%, mitigating dominance risk. However, major firms like Naturgy, with significant US supply contracts, are directly exposed to the worsening diplomatic rift.
Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/lainformacion/economia-y-finanzas/mayor-riesgo-para-espana-amenaza-trump-esta-energia-mas-44-gas-viene-eeuu_6941977_0.html

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The war in Iran drives up electricity prices by another 60% in just 24 hours: {Translation}
– The average price of electricity in the wholesale market reflects the increase in the price of gas caused by the United States intervention in Iran. It rises this Thursday by 59.5%, standing at 90.14 euros per megawatt hour (MWh) compared to 56.51 euros on Wednesday. It thus reaches its highest level since last 20 January, the last day it was above 100 euros per MWh.
– According to the latest data from the Operator of the Iberian Electricity Market (OMIE), the 90.14 euros per MWh represents an increase of 230% compared to the 27.38 euros of Thursday last week. It also represents a rise of 1,300% on the 6.30 euros of a month ago, on 5 February. Furthermore, in the year-on-year comparison, this Thursday sees a price increase of 14.3%. On 5 March last year the price was 78.88 euros per MWh. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/lainformacion/economia-y-finanzas/guerra-iran-dispara-precio-luz-sube-otro-60-apenas-24-horas_6942179_0.html

MALAGA PROVINCE

Malaga is the province where rent delinquencies are rising the most- “Tenants’ ability to pay has reached its limit”:
{Translation, summary}
– Malaga is the Spanish province with the sharpest rise in rent arrears, increasing by 21.5% in the last year, according to a study by the Rental Observatory. The report concludes that the escalation of rents is exhausting tenant solvency, placing Malaga among the most unbalanced markets leading the country in non-payment.
– Average debt per defaulting tenant in Malaga is around 10,000 euros. Rent consumes 38% of household income in the province, well above the 30% considered safe; and the average of 2.1 contributors per flat indicates many people share housing out of necessity. A separate Foessa Foundation report reveals 200,000 people in Malaga live in households that fall below the poverty line after paying housing costs {Hey, a club that will accept me! -Ed.}. The study warns that wage growth has not kept pace with rising rents, increasing default risk. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/malaga/malaga-provincia-sube-morosidad-alquiler-capacidad-pago-llega-limite-20260304122222-nt_amp.html

TORROX

The historic El Morche football field faces its demolition after more than sixty years on the beach: {Translation, summary}
– Coastal authorities have ordered the demolition of the 60-year-old El Morche football pitch in Torrox Costa {pic}, as it sits on public maritime-terrestrial domain. The historic earth pitch, built before the 1988 Coastal Law, will be removed following the inauguration of the ‘nearly finished’ new sports complex nearby in November 2025. The restoration aims to return the area to its natural beach characteristics, improving public use and landscape values. Work is scheduled to begin from 9 March. Torrox Council plans to file objections, not to contest the demolition but to seek guarantees that the El Morche Fair, traditionally held on the site each August, can continue there. The new ‘Antonio Gonzalez’ complex, costing nine million euros, ended a decades-long anomaly of a permanent sports facility on the beach, though its stands and complementary areas remain unfinished. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/axarquia/historico-campo-futbol-morche-afronta-derribo-tras-20260302125040-nt_amp.html

MIDDLE EAST

France authorises US aircraft to use its bases in the Middle East: {Translation}
– France announced on Thursday that it has authorised US aircraft to use its bases in the Middle East, in the midst of a campaign of attacks on Iran, justifying this move as a contribution to the protection of its partners in the region, according to sources from the Army General Staff. Source, Spanish: https://www.larazon.es/internacional/francia-autoriza-que-aviones-utilicen-sus-bases-oriente-medio_2026030569a96308d489bf782e0bfafc.html

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Rutte says there is ‘massive’ NATO support for Trump’s war and highlights Spain’s role: {Translation, summary}
– NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has confirmed that allied nations are providing “massive” and “key enabling support” to the US and Israeli operation to dismantle Iran’s nuclear programme, exposing a contradiction in the Spanish government’s position.
– While Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez publicly maintains a “no to war” stance and has refused use of the Rota and Morón bases, Rutte emphasised that Spain, as a full NATO member, cannot shirk its responsibilities and is already providing crucial logistical support, including the Patriot system in Turkey. The tension with the Trump administration has escalated, with US officials threatening trade consequences and accusing Sánchez of putting American lives at risk. Source, Spanish: https://www.libertaddigital.com/internacional/oriente-medio/2026-03-05/rutte-dice-que-hay-un-apoyo-masivo-de-la-otan-a-la-guerra-de-trump-y-destaca-el-papel-de-espana-7369376/

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How Israel killed Ayatollah Khamenei with a missile from space:
– Israel used a powerful ballistic missile that flew to the edge of space before plummeting to Earth and blasting Iran’s supreme leader and dozens of his top henchmen last Saturday. The Blue Sparrow, a missile that can fly for 1,240 miles and leaves the Earth’s atmosphere before crashing down, was used by Israel during Operation Epic Fury, killing Khamenei and his cohorts on Saturday. So intense was the impact of the missile that debris was found in western Iraq, according to Israeli sources.
– The missile’s ability to exit and re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere make them nearly impossible to intercept, allowing the bombs to clear Iran’s defense systems. Blue Sparrows are typically launched from fighter jets, with their booster rockets taking them to space so the bombs may hover over their intended target. The Blue Sparrow was originally designed to evade air defense systems given their high speed, with Israel believed to have used them during the 2024 assault on Iran. Full article: https://nypost.com/2026/03/05/world-news/how-israel-killed-ayatollah-khamenei-with-a-missile-from-space/

HEALTH

Antonio Sanz has no answers- links the collapse of the Clínico’s emergency department to a period of high demand for healthcare services: {Translation, summary}
– Unions at Malaga’s Virgen de la Victoria Clinical Hospital have declared a state of “extreme gravity and overcrowding” in the A&E department, reporting 22 patients awaiting ward beds on Tuesday, including cases of myocardial infarction, cerebral haemorrhage, pancreatitis and traumatic brain injury. Three patients had waited over 48 hours, far exceeding reasonable time limits.
– Health Councillor Antonio Sanz {pic} attributed the collapse to winter demand peaks, stating that reinforcement measures and reorganisation are implemented during these periods. {Dude, that’s the whole point– those measures have failed miserably. -Ed.}
– However, hospital professionals contradict this, asserting that patient numbers are now high all year round, not limited to summer or winter. The Clinical Hospital serves over one million people in Malaga’s expansion zone without any expansion since 1989, making it the only hospital in the province without an expansion project. Staff report that bed shortages have led to suspended operations and tests of all kinds.
– Despite clear evidence to the contrary, including testimonies of the workers and patients, Sanz maintains that a high attendance plan exists to address such situations with rapid organisational decisions and reinforcements. {So what? An old, ineffective plan exists. That is not a solution to a problem that the plan obviously failed to solve. -Ed.} Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/malaga-capital/antonio-sanz-vincula-colapso-urgencias-clinico-periodo-alta-demanda-malaga-20260305134251-nt_amp.html

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Dr. Manuel Viso warns about the invisible effects of tattoos on your body- “They don’t just stay on the skin.”: {Translation, summary}
– Health educator Manuel Viso warns that tattoos are not merely cosmetic but permanently interact with the immune system. When ink is injected, it travels through the lymphatic system to lymph nodes, where immune cells called macrophages attempt to digest the foreign particles but cannot, leading to chronic inflammation as the cells continuously die and regenerate. Some studies suggest possible links to melanoma and lymphoma, though more research is needed. Viso notes that red ink appears particularly problematic and that in large tattoos, ink particles may reach organs like the liver or kidneys. He highlights that until 2022, inks lacked unified regulation, and the EU’s REACH programme now controls potentially carcinogenic heavy metals in pigments. Despite these risks, Viso emphasises the importance of informed decision-making and precautions, as the long-term effects of ink reaching vital organs remain unknown. Source, Spanish: https://www.larazon.es/salud/bienestar/medico-manuel-viso-alerta-efectos-invisibles-tatuajes-organismo-quedan-solo-piel-b50m_2026030569a96ed86cf703292f626352.html

SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES

*Click links to read the English language articles*

– Malaga weather: storm Regina eases on Thursday but rain returns on Friday
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/storm-regina-gives-malaga-respite-thursday-but-20260305090702-nt.html
– Roman Malaga rises: Thyssen Museum opens long-awaited ‘buried city’ to public– offers an immersive journey into the 1st-century salt-fish industry and domestic life of ancient Malaca {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/roman-malaga-rises-thyssen-museum-opens-longawaited-20260304172420-nt.html
– Sinatra, the ‘Gestapo’ and Fidel Castro in Malaga – the 1964 Pez Espada arrest and declassified files
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/sinatra-the-gestapo-and-fidel-castro-malaga-20260304112723-nt.html
– Andalucía train crash: Guardia Civil suspect document manipulation in fatality probe
https://www.surinenglish.com/andalucia/the-guardia-civil-detects-possible-manipulations-key-20260303142839-nt.html

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CHURCHES & WORSHIP

Churches: Please submit your posts on Thursdays only, before 6pm.

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NEW LIFE CHURCH

New Life Church
– Sunday Service:
Whether you live in Nerja or are visiting our area, you are very welcome to come and join us on Sundays at 11.00am. Join us for a time of Holy Spirit led worship and experience the presence of our God. Our teaching is Bible based as we honour God and obey His Word. During this time of uncertainty, God’s Word reminds us that the Gospel shines brightest in times of darkness. Our service lasts for about 1 hour and 30 mins. With Tea and Coffee afterwards.
– Prayer Meeting:
You are also welcome to join our prayer meetings on Wednesday mornings at 11.00am for 1 hour, where we meet for prayer and worship.
– Jesus said: “I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me”. (John 14:6)
Pasaje San Miguel, Nerja, 29780. Directions: Click Here
Email: info@nlcnerja.com
Website: www.nlcnerja.com ; Facebook

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EL PUENTE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

El Puente Christian Fellowship (Vélez-Málaga): We are a friendly, multi-national, Bible believing community of Christ. We meet each Sunday at 11am to worship the Lord. We enjoy a time of worship with contemporary songs and traditional hymns, and a message brought to us by our Pastor, one of our members or a visiting speaker.
The church meeting hall is situated at: Res: El Olivar 5, 8 Bajo 1, Calle Arbequin, Velez Malaga 29700.
Full directions and further information can be found on our Facebook page, or you can contact us by email on elpuentechristianfellowship@gmail.com or by phone on 665626342.
For those who cannot join us in person, we aim to stream Sunday services via the Facebook page (subject to a good internet connection).

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DOG ADOPTIONS

Axarquia Animal Rescue – Voluntary Charity – non profit organisation:
CIF G93245116 ; Charity Number 10567 (Spain)
Email: axarquia-rescue@hotmail.com
Website: www.axarquiaanimalrescue.com
– 2 Beautiful female dogs looking for their own homes. Both medium in size.
– Willow is 5 years old, great with other dogs and children, you can take her anywhere and she will love all the attention.
– Nina 1 year old, good with other dogs, full of fun and energy.
Please take a look at our website, where you will find more information and photos, plus details of other dogs and pups that we have in our care. Our adoption costs are 110e for pups that have been fully vaccinated, rabies, chip and passport. 180e for older dogs that have all vaccinations, neutered and passport. This contributes towards their vet and care costs, and helps us to continue rescuing abandoned dogs and cats.

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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

Free Comic Strips provided by https://www.arcamax.com/comics

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Andalucia- The Stone Villages of Spain Most Travelers Never See- 4K Travel Documentary:
Discover limestone villages tucked beneath overhanging rock, UNESCO-recognized cities rich in architecture, hidden reservoirs shimmering like glass, and mountain landscapes that remain untouched by mass tourism. This is Andalucia beyond the postcards — quieter, older, and profoundly connected to the land. Video Link

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EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com

Click here to see updated quotes & more currencies

Last updated Mar 5, 2026, 18:36 UTC

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Fun & Games

Useful Links, Info & Numbers

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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Axarquia Silver & Gold Trade +34-606423869

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Home Page – Based in Torrox Costa, near the bus station.

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DigameXtra No. 3199 Thursday, March 5th, 2026

On March 5, 2026March 4, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Sincere thanks to all the Holiday Fundraiser donors! Donations continue to be accepted, info here: https://digamextra.com/donation-information/

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WHAT’S ON

Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!

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Periana’s Ruta de la Tapa: Fri – Sat, 13 – 14 March
Each tapa will cost €2.50. There will be a raffle for vouchers to be used at participating establishments, as well as a giveaway of t-shirts.

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‘Sabor a Málaga’ – Vélez-Málaga: Fri – Sun, 13 – 15 March
Located at Calle Canalejas
30 provincial producers, live cooking demonstrations, workshops, and tastings.
– On Friday the 13th, the fair will open with culinary demonstrations by local chefs, such as Chin Chin Puerto and the teams from Los Pablos, Ménade, and Esto es Jauja. Later, visitors can sample oils, olives, and other traditional snacks. The day will include live music, performances by Nahuel & Darío and the “Dreams and Dance” dance academy, and will conclude with a show and plenty of fun.
– Saturday the 14th will continue with the brass band “Y quiénes somos” (And Who Are We), a presentation of new culinary offerings such as those from Chiringuito Varela, workshops and tastings of Malaga cheeses , and spaces to enjoy provincial and local cuisine. The afternoon will include dance performances by the Cristina Gallardo Dance Academy, flamenco singing and folksy performances by “Rincón Marengo,” and a concert by the Cristo del Mar Bugle and Drum Band from Vélez-Málaga.
– Sunday the 15th will be dedicated to children, with cooking workshops, the Holy Week Get-Together, “My Noe’s Delights,” a traditional Malaga spoon, a little chefs’ hour, and visits from children’s favorite characters. Visitors can also sample stews, homemade croquettes, and other products while enjoying live music and performances such as that of the group “Por Derecho.” Throughout the three days, the fair will offer a complete gastronomic and cultural experience, where quality, tradition, and innovation come together with music, dance, and family entertainment.

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TAOGARDEN MASSAGE

Taogarden Massage – Torrox Costa:
Taogarden Massage is a space dedicated to holistic wellbeing in Torrox Costa, where I combine more than 25 years of experience with holistic massage techniques, drainage, Reset Fisiológico®, Thai Foot, the Face to Face facial massage, the Regenerative Technique and Maderoterapia MMC, as well as personalized treatments aimed at deep relaxation and body balance. Each session is tailored to the individual, in a calm, respectful and professional environment.
Location: Herbolario Naturísima, Costa del Oro, Block 5, Torrox Costa
Opening hours: every day except Sunday from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Phone / WhatsApp: +34 610 520 624
Email: torrox2024@gmail.com
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Book your appointment and discover an authentic and carefully curated wellbeing experience.

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NEWS & ARTICLES

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{ Translations by www.DeepL.com/Translator }

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SPAIN

Pedro Sánchez reaffirms his ‘No to war’ stance and says he does not fear reprisals: {Translation, summary}
– Pedro Sánchez has firmly restated Spain’s opposition to the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, advocating for peace and diplomacy while dismissing fears of reprisals. He cautioned against repeating the errors of the 2003 Iraq war, recalling its negative aftermath. Rejecting threats from Donald Trump over the use of Spanish military bases, Sánchez affirmed Spain’s moral and economic strength. He implicitly criticised leaders like Trump and Netanyahu for using war to mask failures and profit a few.
– The government is evacuating Spanish citizens from the region and preparing economic measures. While condemning the Iranian regime, Sánchez insists that illegality cannot be answered with illegality, and that Spain, aligned with international law and its allies, must champion a peaceful, diplomatic resolution to prevent a wider disaster. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/espana/pedro-sanchez-reafirma-guerra-afirma-que-teme-represalias/202603040939463222720.html

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Trump claims that Spain is a ‘terrible’ ally and that he has ordered ‘all trade to be cut off’: {Translation, summary}
– Donald Trump has declared Spain a “terrible” ally and ordered a halt to all trade and agreements with the country. This action is in response to the Spanish government’s refusal to allow US bases in Spain to be used for attacks on Iran. Trump criticised Spain’s stance as “unfriendly” and its leadership as poor, also pointing to its failure to meet NATO’s defence spending targets. He asserted that the US can use the bases whenever it wants regardless. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz supported Trump’s criticism, stating that allies are trying to convince Spain to meet its NATO military spending commitments. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/espana/trump-asegura-que-espana-es-aliado-terrible-que-ha-ordenado-cortar-todo-comercio/202603032019323222635.html

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Brussels backs Spain after Trump’s threats and proposes to act if necessary: {Translation, summary}
– The European Commission has voiced its full solidarity with Spain following US President Donald Trump’s threats of trade reprisals. This action stems from Spain’s refusal to allow the use of its military bases for a US offensive against Iran. EU spokesman Olof Gill stated the bloc is ready to defend its members’ interests and safeguard EU trade through its common policy. Brussels called on Washington to honour the terms of a July trade agreement between Trump and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, which capped US tariffs on European goods. The Commission stressed the importance of stable and predictable transatlantic relations. Trump had labelled Spain’s stance as “unfriendly” and announced he was cutting all trade and agreements with the country, also criticising its NATO defence spending. The EU insists the US must fully comply with the joint declaration to maintain a beneficial and stable trade framework for both parties. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/espana/bruselas-respalda-espana-amenazas-trump-plantea-actuar-hace-falta/202603041039423222789.html

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Spain says it is surprised by Merz’s attitude in not taking a stand in defence of Spain: {Translation, summary}
– Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has expressed surprise at German Chancellor Friedrich Merz {pic with Trump} for failing to defend Spain against US President Donald Trump’s criticism. Trump threatened trade suspensions and criticised Spain’s refusal to allow use of its military bases for an Iran operation, as well as its defence spending. Albares conveyed this surprise to his German counterpart, noting that Merz had actively supported Trump’s stance during the Oval Office meeting, confirming Spain was the only NATO country not meeting spending targets and stating he was trying to convince Spain to comply. Albares stressed the need for European solidarity, recalling Spain’s support for other EU members. He contrasted Merz’s approach unfavourably with that of previous Chancellors Merkel and Scholz, citing a different “European spirit”. The episode highlights tensions over NATO defence spending and the importance of EU cohesion, with Spain seeking reciprocity for its own support of European initiatives. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/espana/ejecutivo-afirma-estar-sorprendido-actitud-merz-posicionarse-defensa-espana/202603041111283222811.html

ANDALUCÍA

A “narco-coffin” containing cocaine is found in Marbella and another containing military weapons is found in Algeciras: {Translation, summary}
– National Police have dismantled two major drug networks in Marbella and Algeciras, seizing over a tonne of cocaine and an arsenal of weapons. In Marbella, a buried “drug bunker” containing 1,056 kg of cocaine was discovered in the Ricmar forest. During the operation, suspects shot at officers before four were arrested. Seized items included an AK-47, an AR15 rifle, an UZI submachine gun, and police equipment.
– In a separate Algeciras operation, 25 firearms were confiscated, 19 of which were AK-47 type weapons of war, hidden in a vehicle to protect “drug nurseries”. One person was arrested. The sophisticated operations involved surveillance cameras and vehicles with duplicate plates. The arrests involve charges including attempted homicide and illegal weapons possession, marking a significant blow to organised crime in southern Spain. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/campo-gibraltar-algeciras/localizan-narcozulo-cocaina-marbella-armas-guerra-algeciras/202603040916443222710.html

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Andalusian Police Launch ‘Titan Group’ to Crack Down on Illegal Tourist Rentals: {Translation, summary}
– The Titan group, a new unit of the National Police attached to the regional government, has been created to inspect Andalusia’s tourism industry, including holiday rentals, hotels, and related services. Its work will focus on cyber-patrolling digital platforms to detect clandestine and illegal offerings, a key point of contention between the regional and national governments regarding jurisdiction over tourist property registers. This national group is separate from regional enforcement agencies.
– While the national ministry cites thousands of unregistered properties in Andalusia, the regional government claims exclusive authority, having cancelled over 13,000 itself. The unit will enforce the 2026 Tourism Inspection Plan, aiming to be preventative and dissuasive rather than punitive. However, it can open proceedings and impose fines. Current maximum penalties for serious offences are 150,000 euros, but pending legislation could raise this to 600,000 euros for grave breaches like obstructing inspectors or providing false documents. The officers will collaborate with regional inspectors across all provinces. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/andalucia/ciberpatrullas-policias-cazar-pisos-turisticos_0_2006065839.html

ALGARROBO

New medical centre in Algarrobo Costa: {Translation, summary}
– The new medical centre in Algarrobo Costa is the result of “loyal and necessary institutional collaboration to carry out such important future projects as this one.” The transfer of a municipally owned building will allow these healthcare facilities to be housed on the ground floor and semi-basement, with a total constructed area of over 802 square meters. Work began this Monday after the contract was awarded to the joint venture Comsa-Refermo.
– “The investment dedicated to the construction of this new infrastructure totals €688,217 from the Andalusian Health Service’s own funds, and if the deadlines are met, we expect it to open at the beginning of this summer,” the delegate reported.
– The new facility will include nine consultation rooms: seven for doctors and nurses, a physiotherapy room, and a multi-purpose paediatric consultation room, as well as a space for social workers. The Community Social Services, run by the Málaga Provincial Council, will be located on the first floor of this building. “With this new clinic, we will triple the number of consultations compared to the current one, in addition to significantly improving accessibility for both users and professionals and expanding the range of services,” the delegate concluded. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/patricia-navarro-anuncia-el-inicio-de-las-obras-del-nuevo-consultorio-de-algarrobo-costa-que-triplicara-las-consultas/

RINCÓN DE LA VICTORIA

Rincón de la Victoria votes to ban burkas inside municipal buildings:
– Rincón de la Victoria town hall has approved the right-wing political party Vox’s proposal to “regulate access to municipal buildings when the face is completely covered by a niqab, burka, or other equivalent garments.” The initiative, which prohibits the use of these items of clothing, received the support of the Popular Party (PP), which holds an absolute majority in the town hall and was met with total rejection from the socialist (PSOE) and Con Rincón parties. Full article: https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/eastern-costa-sol-town-hall-votes-ban-20260302140705-nt.html

MIDDLE EAST

Israel announces more ‘large-scale’ bombings in Tehran and threatens to continue attacking ‘throughout Lebanon’: {Translation, summary}
– Israel has launched its fifth day of coordinated attacks with the United States against Iran, conducting “large scale” strikes on Tehran targeting Revolutionary Guard infrastructure. Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a direct threat to eliminate any Iranian leader continuing the “plan to destroy Israel”.
– Simultaneously, Israel is bombarding Lebanon, including Beirut’s Dahieh suburbs, with its Northern Command vowing to strike “all of Lebanon” as casualties rise to at least 56 dead. In retaliation, Iran has closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz to shipping, claiming to have attacked over ten oil tankers attempting to breach the blockade. The region remains on edge as Iran prepares to select a successor for its slain supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with the decision expected following his funeral.
Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/israel-anuncia-mas-bombardeos-gran-escala-teheran-amenaza-con-seguir-atacando-todo-libano_6941664_0.html

HEALTH

They say it like it’s a good thing– It takes 3 days just to get a future appointment scheduled with family medicine: {Translation, summary}
– The average wait to request a family doctor appointment in Malaga’s Primary Care centres is now 2.6 days, according to regional government representative Patricia Navarro {pic}. {That wait is just to schedule the appointment, not to actually be seen. -Ed.} She attributes this improvement, which aligns with the Andalusian average of 2.3 days, to the ‘back office’ system, which manages all user requests within 72 hours. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/esandalucia/malaga/noticia-junta-destaca-espera-consulta-medico-familia-bajado-menos-tres-dias-20260304141117.html

TECH

Leave big tech behind! How to replace Amazon, Google, X, Meta, Apple – and more:
– We’ve entered into a Faustian pact with these companies: “While it’s brilliant to have access to high-quality products and software, very often for ‘free’, it’s important to remember that there is a trade-off involved – often of our personal data and privacy,” says Lisa Barber, tech editor at Which? We give these companies our attention and our information, which they then turn into big bucks and apparently unassailable monopolies.
– But the good news is we can go elsewhere. The rest of the world is weighing up its reliance on US technologies, and in Europe especially we’re realising there are better alternatives to just about everything big tech is shilling, if by “better” we mean greener, more ethical, more independent, more respectful of your privacy or simply less disturbingly, monolithically powerful. Making the switch is easier than you might imagine. Here are a few pointers.
– See the full article here: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/feb/26/how-to-replace-amazon-google-x-meta-apple-alternatives Thanks to Maggie for the link.

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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

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Last updated Mar 4, 2026, 17:10 UTC

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Fun & Games

Useful Links, Info & Numbers

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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DigameXtra No. 3198 Wednesday, March 4th, 2026

On March 4, 2026March 3, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

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WHAT’S ON

Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!

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Flamenco Show in Almuñécar – ‘Tres de Picas’:
Fri, 6 March, 7pm.
Casa de Cultura – Auditorio J. Martín Recuerda
Puerta de Granada, 19 (18690) Almuñécar
Featuring Ana Pastrana. Info & tix (€15): https://bravoentradas.es/es/events/tres-de-picas-de-ana-pastrana

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Fiesta de la Hinojá 2026– Algatocín: Sat & Sun, 7 & 8 March
In Algatocín there is a long tradition of eating fennel, a plant characteristic of the area, with January and February being the ideal months for harvesting and consuming it. It is cooked in a stew with peas, chorizo and black pudding.
During the gastronomic and cultural festival called ‘La Hinojá residents of the municipality cook the traditional stew following recipes passed down from generation to generation, offering free tastings. At the same time, there are live cooking workshops, cultural events, musical performances and guided tours of the village.
Info: https://www.algatocin.es/6709/com1_md3_cd-80693/algatocin-celebrara-la-xiv-edicion-de-su-hinoja-el-7-y-8-de-marzo

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Rincón de la Victoria reunirá en el Carnaval 2026:
Rincón de la Victoria will celebrate five days of carnival: March 7 and 8 in La Cala del Moral, and March 14 and 15 in Rincón de la Victoria.
**Programme**
– 7th March – La Cala del Moral (Plaza Gloria Fuertes)
4:00 pm Abelito y Terrones
6:00 pm Money Makers
8:00 pm DJ Androale
– 8th March – La Cala del Moral
12:00 pm Procession ‘A Bailar’ Association
1:00 pm Performance ‘A Bailar’ Association
2:00 pm Free Cabbage, Paprika and Pork with Tomato
4:00 pm Children’s and Adult Fancy Dress Competition
5:00 pm Carnival Performance Group ‘La Tierra Canta’
– 14th March – Rincón de la Victoria (Plaza de la Constitución)
7:00 pm Carnival Drag Contest 2026
– 15th March – Rincón de la Victoria
11:00 am Children’s Party with entertainment and workshops
11:30 am Procession with the Brass Band
12:00 pm Hot Chocolate and start of Children’s Competition
1:30 pm Adult Competition and performances
2:30 pm Prize Giving
4:00 pm Carnival Troupe ‘Los Máquina’
4:45 pm Carnival Performance Group ‘Los Calaveras’
5:30 pm Carnival Chorus Group ‘Los Cadisapiens’
6:30 pm Bizcocho’s Carnival Chorus Group ‘SSSHHHHH!!!’

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Warning Note: Possible thunderstorms, moderate rain, high winds and waves until 6pm Wednesday.

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Wednesday Weather Alerts: Yellow & Orange alerts for Andalucia coast.

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NEWS & ARTICLES

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SPAIN

Sanchez gets left out of EU leader’s meeting again– Trump’s allies turn against Sánchez, leaving Spain doubly isolated– at odds with the US and outside Macron’s ‘umbrella’: {Translation, summary}
– The escalating Middle East conflict, now impacting an EU member’s base in Cyprus, forces Spain into a delicate balancing act. The government navigates condemning attacks, maintaining an anti-Trump stance, and hesitating on European security pacts, like the Franco-German nuclear initiative. This strategy results in Spain’s double isolation but bolsters Prime Minister Sánchez’s left-wing image against pro-Trump movements.
– Tensions with the US are evident as at least 11 American aircraft leave Morón base due to bilateral agreements prohibiting unilateral actions without consent. Defence Minister Robles confirmed Spain refused support operations, leading to the relocation. This move drew fierce US conservative criticism, with key figures accusing Spain of treachery and calling for its NATO expulsion. Madrid summoned the Iranian ambassador over attacks endangering Spanish citizens but not US or Israeli envoys.
– Simultaneously, Spain excluded itself from nuclear defence talks led by France and Germany, citing anti-proliferation principles, and was omitted from NATO chief Rutte’s recent calls with key European leaders. Source, Spanish: https://www.elmundo.es/espana/2026/03/02/69a5dbbbfdddffe4468b456f.html

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The Thin Line Between Being Vulnerable & Being a Freeloader– The Welfare State and the Unsustainable Pension System- More than 3.2 million people in Spain already live on non-contributory benefits: {Translation, summary}
– The sustainability of Spain’s welfare state and pension system faces significant pressure from the growing number of non-contributory benefits. These are payments for which prior contribution is not required, such as the Minimum Vital Income (IMV) and non-contributory retirement and invalidity pensions. Current data shows over 3.28 million people now receive such support, including 2.44 million benefiting from the IMV alone and nearly 463,000 receiving non-contributory pensions. The combined annual cost exceeds 10.3 billion euros.
– This rising expenditure, which the government intends to increase further, places an unsustainable burden on the contributory system. As more people qualify for means-tested support without having paid into the system, the financial foundation of public pensions is weakened, raising serious questions about the long-term viability of the welfare state and its ability to meet its obligations to future retirees. Source, Spanish: https://www.libertaddigital.com/libremercado/2026-03-03/mas-de-3-2-millones-de-personas-ya-viven-de-prestaciones-no-contributivas-en-espana-7361992/

ANDALUCÍA

85% of tourist flats cannot operate on digital portals in Andalucia due to ‘bureaucratic barriers’: {Translation, summary}
– A bureaucratic crisis threatens Andalucia’s holiday rental sector due to a complex two-step registration process necessary to post adverts online. Properties must first obtain a regional registration number, then separately deposit their 2025 contracts (model N2) with the national registry. While many provinces show moderate success with initial registration, the second step has caused a collapse in final compliance.
– In Malaga province, which holds the most licences (87,370), only 42.3% have completed initial registration, meaning final compliance will be far lower after the second step. Coastal towns like Benahavis and Benalmadena show particularly low initial registration at just 25%.
– Granada shows stronger initial registration, with 6,270 of 9,558 authorised accommodations (65.6%) in the register. However, industry data indicates that only 40% of initially registered properties complete the second step, meaning Granada’s final compliance rate drops to approximately 26%. This threatens Holy Week trade.
– Across Andalucia, of 153,517 licensed homes, only 17.2% have fully completed both steps, leaving nearly 85% unable to operate legally from March. Industry body Avvapro warns of job losses and economic damage, urging a deadline extension to prevent compliant properties being excluded due to administrative backlog.
– {Properties with only the regional licence are not completely banned from all renting, but they cannot be advertised on digital platforms. Given that the vast majority of bookings for holiday rentals come through sites like Airbnb and Booking.com, for practical purposes, this exclusion from the online market effectively paralyses their ability to operate. To legally rent through any online channel, both the regional and the national registration numbers are now mandatory. -Ed.}
Source, Spanish: https://www.larazon.es/andalucia/pisos-turisticos-85-puede-operar-andalucia-muro-burocratico_2026030369a63b4f1817b41eb66d579f.html

MIDDLE EAST

Iran live news– US embassy in Riyadh hit; Tehran closes Strait of Hormuz, Lebanon pulls back border troops: {Aljazeera News}
– Israeli and US forces continue their assault on Iran including a strike on the Iranian state broadcaster, as the death toll rises to 787 people. The Israeli army also intensifies air attacks on Lebanon and has launched a new ground incursion into the country’s south.
– Saudi authorities say two drones hit the US Embassy in Riyadh, causing a limited fire and minor damage.
– US President Donald Trump says the military campaign against Iran could last about four weeks, saying that Washington will do whatever it takes to destroy Tehran’s missile and nuclear capabilities.
– Iran has struck energy infrastructure across the Gulf, sending global oil and gas prices sharply higher. Qatar’s state-owned petroleum company has suspended all LNG production after two of its facilities were hit.
– Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps says the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil consumption passes, is now “closed”, and warns that any vessels attempting to pass through the waterway will be attacked.
– Iran continues to attack sites across Israel, with the Israeli military reporting missile interceptions over West Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Eilat. At least 10 people have been killed in Israel since Saturday.
– Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency says the Lebanese army is evacuating “advanced positions” along the border with Israel. The Lebanese army has withdrawn from at least seven operating positions along the ‌border, Reuters news agency reported earlier, citing witnesses. The moves come as Israel’s Defence Minister Katz said Israel’s army had been instructed “to advance and seize additional controlling areas in Lebanon to prevent firing on Israeli border settlements”.
Source, with live updates: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2026/3/3/iran-live-news-israel-bombs-tehran-beirut-trump-says-war-to-last-4-weeks

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Eight countries join France’s nuclear rearmament drive, which Spain rejects- ‘So that our enemies do not dare to attack us.’: {Translation, summary}
– A total of eight European countries have already joined the European nuclear rearmament initiative promoted by Emmanuel Macron in coordination with France, Germany and the United Kingdom. This was announced by Prime Minister Donald Tusk {pic} in a message on social media. “Poland is in talks with France and a group of its closest European allies about the advanced nuclear deterrence programme. We are arming ourselves together with our friends so that our enemies will never dare to attack us,” he said.
– In general, Macron listed a total of eight partners involved, in addition to France itself: Germany, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, Greece, Poland, Sweden and Denmark. Spain, however, remains uninvolved in this key step in the midst of the US and Israeli offensive against Iran and the resulting escalation of war in the Middle East.
– The French leader announced on Monday that France will increase its nuclear arsenal and conceal the figures on its capacity, ‘To be free, you have to be feared,’ he said during the presentation of the country’s nuclear strategy for the coming decades. In this regard, he is clear that the world has changed and confirmed contacts with Berlin and London.
– On Tuesday, France announced it would send a warship, missile defence systems, and anti-drone equipment to Cyprus. The United Kingdom will also contribute a warship to the island following Monday’s drone attacks on the British base there. Both Nicosia and Brussels insist that the country—an EU member but not a NATO member—is “not a target” of Iran in the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Paris and London thus join Greece, which confirmed its troop deployment to Cyprus on Monday. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/polonia-se-suma-rearme-nuclear-impulsado-por-francia-nos-estamos-armando-para-que-nuestros-enemigos-nunca-se-atrevan-atacarnos_6941058_0.html

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Iran warns Europe that there will be ‘consequences’ if it joins the US and Israeli offensive: {Translation, summary}
– Iran warned European nations against joining the US-Israeli offensive, threatening consequences. This follows statements by Germany, France, and the UK about potentially taking defensive measures against Iranian military capabilities. France is sending anti-missile systems and a frigate to Cyprus after a drone attack on a British base there, with the UK considering deploying a destroyer. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/guerra-eeuu-israel-iran-directo-ultimas-noticias-ataques-chipre-bases-militares-oriente-proximo-golfo-persico_6941004_6.html

WORLD

Photos: The Holi celebrations in the north Indian town of Mathura filled the air with music, dance, and clouds of colored powder.
Full photo gallery: https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/india-spring-festival-holi-photo-gallery-89ce9e9f46afe406135b0ce74b9da912

TRAVEL

Bad Omen For Train Service– Renfe prepares for further disruptions to the rail network and establishes its own company to facilitate bus alternatives to train travel: {Translation, summary}
– Spanish rail operator Renfe is taking the unusual step of creating its own bus company to ferry passengers when train services grind to a halt. The move comes in response to a surge in infrastructure projects planned by network manager Adif, which Renfe fears will lead to repeated disruptions like those currently plaguing the Madrid-Malaga high-speed line and the R-1 Rodalies commuter service.
– Under the plan, Renfe will hold a 49 per cent stake in a new venture, with a private bus operator taking 51 per cent under a ten-year contract, extendable to fifteen. The decision follows persistent difficulties in sourcing coaches for alternative transport plans during emergencies, from storm damage to last summer’s wildfires in Galicia. Renfe cites a critical shortage of available buses and drivers, and poor response to short-notice tenders.
– The operator estimates the 61.5 million euro venture will save between nine and 13 million annually compared to its current costly, last-minute hire of coaches. Renfe remains the only one of Spain’s three high-speed operators to provide road replacements during rail closures. Rivals Ouigo and Iryo have simply suspended services on affected routes, with Iryo recently furloughing 40 staff in Malaga while awaiting track repairs. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/nacional/renfe-se-prepara-para-mas-cortes-red-ferroviaria-crea-su-propia-empresa-para-facilitar-alternativas-tren-autobus_6941170_0.html

SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES

*Click links to read the English language articles*

– Hiker, 50 year old male from Malaga City, dies after falling in Nerja’s Sierra Almijara mountains
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/hiker-dies-after-falling-nerjas-sierra-almijara-20260303121343-nt.html
– Nerja Cave incorporates ‘Art-Point’ to show hidden paintings
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/nerja-cave-incorporates-an-artpoint-show-its-20260302131257-nt.html
– Spain’s Cristina Bucsa wins first WTA title of her career {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/sport/spains-cristina-bucsa-wins-first-wta-title-20260302152416-nt.html

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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

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EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com

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Last updated Mar 3, 2026, 15:43 UTC

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Fun & Games

Useful Links, Info & Numbers

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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DigameXtra No. 3197 Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026

On March 3, 2026March 2, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

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*Send your submissions & subscription requests to digamextra@protonmail.com

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WHAT’S ON

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Bands & Acts: Please submit your gig promos. Your music is your business, you need to get as much exposure as possible, don’t rely on venues to promote you! Most FB posts on local event pages only have a few likes, if any at all, so obviously are not reaching many people. And it is the same few persons giving the likes week after week. DigameXtra posts provide way better exposure than you’ll get in any FB posts!!! A donation of just €20 will allow you to post your gig schedule once a week for the remainder of this year. What are you waiting for? This is within any band’s budget.

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XII Festival of Sacred Music and Early Music:
“The March Hare” – 7 & 14 March, Frigiliana / Cómpeta
Free admission until full capacity is reached.
– Devinne Quartet, Frigiliana
Saturday, March 7, 12:30 p.m.
Parish of San Antonio de Padua
Dialogues between strings and winds. Quartets OP. 73. François Devienne 1759 – 1803
– Brassaquía Brass Quintet. Competa
Saturday, March 14, 12:30 p.m.
Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
Roots and Splendour of Early Music
Works by: William Byrd; Giovanni Gabriele; Antonio Vivaldi…

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Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/

Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details

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Warning Note: Moderate warning for possible thunderstorms & high waves until 5:59 Wednesday.

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Latest Weather Alerts & Advisories For Andalucia: https://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos?k=and

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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 
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Book For Sale– ‘Stone Steps’ written and illustrated by Nigel Gilbert:
Stories from a flooded world and the refugee catastrophe that followed: too many lives, too little land. The UK has been reduced to a group of islands of high ground.
In the aftermath of brutal wars against refugee invasions the islands became Police States- Uncovering the State’s horrific plan to balance an ‘excess’ of human need to scarce resources, an honest detective is hunted down as a terrorist.
A one-time activist cast out to an upland farm, watches with dismay as belief in the lies and deceit of the State takes hold in his family.
Look to recent extreme weather events, to the pattern of human migration, to the direction of travel of politics worldwide – ‘Stone Steps’ is a must-read and available as paperback and e-book at:
Kindle Edition €3.35
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CW1BTZH7
Paperback €9.65
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CYSGST11
Nigel, Torrox Pueblo

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For Sale (reduced): TV, Philips 50” Ambilight. Only selling TV, including the remote control. There is no stand; we had it mounted on the wall. Stands can be bought on Amazon, etc. Excellent condition. Reason for sale: We upgraded to a larger model. Only available for pick-up. Asking 140€.
See details & photo: https://www.displayspecifications.com/en/model/818e1f7a#google_vignette
Ingrid, Algarrobo Costa
Email: 147udahl@gmail.com

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RECOMMENDATIONS, REQUESTS, COMMENTS & SUBSCRIBER SOAPBOX

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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NEWS & ARTICLES

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

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ANDALUCÍA

Andalucia is expecting the arrival of Storm Regina on Tuesday, with rain that could persist throughout the week: {Translation, summary}
– Andalusia is preparing for the arrival of storm Regina on Tuesday, bringing instability, cloud cover and frequent rainfall, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday. The rains will begin in the south and spread across the region. Showers may return on Thursday and Friday, continuing intermittently through the weekend. Yellow weather warnings are in effect for rain in the Cadiz area until Wednesday, with up to 40 litres per square metre expected in twelve hours. Wind and coastal alerts are also active, with easterly winds shifting to westerly by Thursday and rough seas likely to persist until the weekend. Daytime temperatures will drop by three to four degrees on Wednesday, with a smaller drop overnight on Thursday. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/andalucia/noticia-andalucia-espera-llegada-borrasca-regina-martes-lluvias-podrian-persistir-toda-semana-20260302124525.html

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Andalucia’s Connection to the War in the Middle East– Rota, a key axis in the US and Israeli military operation against Iran: {Translation}
– The Rota Naval Base has once again played a key role in the current scenario of international tension. Naval and air resources have departed from the Cadiz facility that have participated in the military operation launched by the United States and Israel against Iran, called Epic Fury.
– Specifically, two U.S. Navy destroyers, the USS Roosevelt and the USS Bulkeley, set sail from Rota heading for the Eastern Mediterranean with all their operational capabilities. Both ships are designed for escort and defence missions, and have advanced air, naval and submarine threat detection and neutralisation systems.
– The USS Bulkeley belongs to the Arleigh Burke class and is equipped with the Aegis combat system, considered fundamental in operations of this type for its ability to provide anti-aircraft and anti-missile defence, in addition to coordinating anti-submarine and anti-surface weapons. This system provides an additional shield of protection to the battle groups in which these destroyers operate.
– These vessels are part of the permanent contingent of five destroyers that the U.S. Navy keeps deployed in Rota, inside the defensive shield of NATO in Europe. A sixth destroyer is scheduled to arrive later this year to further strengthen this capability.
– These naval movements have also been joined by air operations. In recent days, a strategic transport aircraft Globemaster III and two KC-135 tankers took off from Rota in an easterly direction, providing logistical support and in-flight refuelling capability to extend the range of other aircraft involved in the operation. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/rota/rota-eje-clave-operacion-militar-estados-unidos-israel-iran/202603021107233221611.html

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Strait of Hormuz– the crisis arising from the attack by the US and Israel on Iran that could shake the pockets of the Andalucians: {Translation, summary}
– The experience of 2022 showed how an external energy shock can be transferred within weeks to domestic and business electricity bills.
– The Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world’s oil passes, has become a major concern for Andalucia. Although the passage lies more than 5,000 kilometres away, its potential closure by Iran amidst escalating regional tensions would trigger an immediate spike in global energy prices, directly affecting the Andalucian economy.
– The region would face higher costs for petrol, diesel and agricultural fuel, impacting its transport-reliant logistics sector and highly mechanised farming. Wholesale electricity prices would rise, pressuring households and electro-intensive industries such as ceramics and chemicals. Key ports like Algeciras and Huelva could suffer from disrupted global trade routes and increased freight costs.
– This would generate local inflation, increasing the cost of living, reducing domestic consumption and squeezing vulnerable families and small businesses. While Spain holds strategic reserves equivalent to 90 days of consumption, these cannot neutralise international market prices. A crisis in this distant maritime corridor thus poses a direct threat to Andalucian families, businesses and broader economic stability. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/mundo/cierre-estrecho-ormuz-guerra-iran-sacudir-andalucia_0_2006045005.html

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117 Andalucian municipalities are at high risk of mosquito infestations: {Translation, summary}
– Andalucia is expanding its vector surveillance programme to include dengue, chikungunya and zika, alongside West Nile virus. Imported cases introduce these viruses into Andalucia where the tiger mosquito is present, creating conditions for potential local transmission. For the current season, 117 municipalities begin at high risk level, 13 more than last year, including areas in Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, Jaen and Seville.
– Monitoring includes 120 fixed traps plus three mobile traps per province, with weekly checks from May. Close surveillance will also extend to municipalities within 10 kilometres of alert areas. No virus circulation has been detected in winter traps. Authorities emphasise self-protection measures: repellent, light clothing covering most of the body, mosquito nets and eliminating stagnant water. The programme aims to strengthen anticipation and response capacity through collaboration with local councils.
Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/andalucia/117-municipios-andaluces-nivel-alto_0_2006046539.html

VÉLEZ-MÁLAGA

Night water cuts in Vélez-Málaga and Torre del Mar due to improvements in two tanks: {Translation, summary}
– Residents in Vélez-Málaga, Torre del Mar and Caleta de Vélez will face scheduled overnight water cuts on 4 to 6 March due to maintenance at the El Romeral and Torre del Mar reservoirs. Aqualia confirmed the works affect outlet meters and will run from midnight to 8.00 am to reduce disruption. Areas impacted differ on each night, with some neighbourhoods excluded from the interruptions.
– The company advises residents to check taps are closed, avoid using appliances during the outage and run water briefly once supply returns to clear sediment. The free customer service line remains available. These interruptions are routine maintenance. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/axarquia/cortes-nocturnos-agua-velezmalaga-torre-mar-mejoras-depositos-20260302135710-nt_amp.html

MIJAS

The Veritas organic supermarket chain expands in Malaga with a new store in Mijas: {Translation, summary}
– Veritas, an organic food supermarket chain, is expanding in Malaga with the opening of its third provincial store in Mijas on 5 March, following two openings in Estepona in 2024. This new 400-square-metre store, creating nine local jobs, offers over 6,000 organic products and features local suppliers. It joins Veritas’s existing network of 95 supermarkets across Spain and Andorra. Source, Spanish:
https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/malaga/2026/03/02/cadena-supermercados-ecologicos-veritas-crece-malaga-mijas-127439148.html

MIDDLE EAST

Iran attacks European territory and the EU calls for preparations for ‘the consequences’ of a war in the Middle East: {Translation, summary}
– Europe is on alert because Iran has already attacked its territory with a drone strike on the non-EU British base at Akrotiri in Cyprus, an EU member state, causing ‘limited material damage’, according to the Cypriot government. Shortly afterwards, two other drones were intercepted and Greece confirmed that it was sending a frigate and several fighter jets to the area as a support measure. Iran’s westernmost border is more than 1,400 kilometres from the Mediterranean island, while the coast of Lebanon, where the Shiite group Hezbollah, an ally of Iran and considered a terrorist organisation by the European Union, operates, is 300 kilometres from the attacked base. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/von-der-leyen-pide-ue-estar-preparada-para-las-consecuencias-una-guerra-oriente-proximo_6940621_0.html & Video Link

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Israel strikes Lebanon after Hezbollah rocket fire as Iran conflict widens:
– Israel’s military has said it has struck Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, after the Iranian-backed Shia group said it launched rockets and drones at the Israeli city of Haifa to avenge the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
– Lebanon’s health ministry said 31 people were killed by Israeli strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs, where Hezbollah has a strong presence, and the country’s south.
– There were no reports of casualties in Israel from Hezbollah’s fire, which the group said was retaliation for Khamenei’s “pure blood” and Israeli strikes in Lebanon since a ceasefire ended a war between them 15 months ago.
– The Israeli defence minister vowed Hezbollah would pay a “heavy price”. Full article: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y4v8g13wxo

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The Israeli army claims to have killed Hezbollah’s intelligence chief in a ‘precise’ attack in Beirut: {Translation, summary}
– The US-Israel war with Iran, now on its third day, has expanded to Lebanon. Israel claims to have assassinated Hezbollah intelligence chief Hussein Makled in a precision strike in Beirut. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/internacional/…

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RAF Cyprus base hit, U.K. allows U.S. to fly missions from its bases: {UPI, Summary}
– A drone strike hit RAF Akrotiri late Sunday, striking the runway and prompting evacuation of families and non essential staff. Yvette Cooper confirmed precautionary measures were in place. The Ministry of Defence said damage was minimal, no casualties were reported, and the base remains operational. The facility supports Royal Air Force Typhoon missions defending Gulf partners and up to 300,000 British nationals in the region amid Iranian attacks.
– Prime Minister Keir Starmer authorised the United States to use British bases, including Diego Garcia, for limited defensive missions targeting Iranian missiles. He maintained Britain is not part of offensive operations but cited risks to British citizens and allies. With regional airspace closed, many Britons remain stranded. Opposition parties demand parliamentary approval for further action. Full article: https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/03/02/Cyprus-Iranian-drone-hits-RAF-Akrotiri-base/6421772444488/

GASTRONOMIA

The ‘foodie’ agenda of the week in Malaga Province– trout, rabbit and fennel: {Translation}
– March begins in Málaga with a range of foodie plans across the province. In the absence of major gastronomic events in the city itself, lovers of fine food will need to travel to Casabermeja, Algatocín, Torre del Mar or Casares to enjoy varied activities and savoury dishes.
– The first plan this week takes us to Casabermeja, where spring gastronomic days will be held. From 6 to 8 March, local restaurants will offer tapas, sharing plates and tasting menus prepared with produce from local market gardens, alongside a full programme of cultural activities, a local produce market, workshops, performances, children’s activities and guided visits to monuments.
– Also over the weekend, a distinctive event will take place in Algatocín with the Hinojá, a festival centred on fennel, a plant typical of the area. On 7 and 8 March, residents will cook their traditional stew made with peas, chorizo and black pudding, offering free tastings. There will also be live cooking workshops, cultural events, musical performances, guided village tours, children’s workshops and a large open air dance.
– In Torre del Mar, a new edition of its tapas route has just begun, with nearly 30 establishments taking part. Until 22 March, visitors can enjoy a tapa and drink for four euros. Specialities include a slow braised Iberian pork cheek bite with pistachios, pine nuts and raisins, a chicken, bacon and cheese quesadilla with mild curry mayonnaise and crispy onion, and a crispy roast chicken roll with creamy carbonara sauce.
– At the other end of the province, in Casares, Restaurante Sarmiento has launched its Monte y Río days, a series paying tribute to the season and its surroundings. Until the end of March, diners can enjoy a special menu featuring wild rabbit croquettes, trout tartare and charcoal grilled venison sirloin, among other dishes. The menu costs 46 euros per person and is available by reservation for lunch from Wednesday to Friday and dinner from Thursday to Saturday.
– In Antequera, Restaurante Bienmesabe has begun its vigil days, available from Wednesday to Friday at lunchtime. For 30 euros, diners can enjoy dishes such as pintaroja broth, vigil cream with savoury pestiño, and tuna in Rota style.
– Finally, to mark International Women’s Day in Marbella, Nota Blu New Brasserie will present on 7 March a unique and personal proposal: a tribute by executive chef Fabián Cangas to the women who shaped his life and inspired his love of cooking. Under the concept Herencias, the restaurant offers an exclusive selection of dishes born from memories and emotions, including linguini with lobster, truffle and Fontina pizzetta, and sea bass en croûte. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/malagaenlamesa/agenda-foodie-semana-malaga-trucha-conejo-hinojos-20260227131717-nt_amp.html

HEALTH

HM Hospitals expands in Malaga and opens a new private medical centre in El Palo: {Translation, summary}
– HM Hospitales has opened a new private polyclinic in Malaga’s El Palo district. The 500-square-metre centre, built with a 2 million euro investment, features eight consulting rooms, a helium-free 1.5 tesla MRI scanner and an extraction room for clinical analysis. It offers 18 specialities including cardiology, oncology, paediatrics and traumatology. Dr Virginia Grando stated the opening reflects a strategy of bringing specialised medicine closer to patients while maintaining technological standards within a connected care network. This is the group’s fourth facility in the province. Further expansion includes the Mar de Alborán Hospital in Malaga city, scheduled for 2028 opposite La Rosaleda stadium, and a new private hospital in Velez-Malaga, the first in the Axarquia region, with construction expected to begin in late 2026. Renovation of the La Encarnación building at HM Malaga Hospital is also in its final phase. Source, Spanish:
https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/hm-hospitales-malaga-centro-medico-privado-el-palo_0_2006047748.html

*********

HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

Free Comic Strips provided by https://www.arcamax.com/comics

*********

EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com

Click here to see updated quotes & more currencies

Last updated Mar 2, 2026, 18:53 UTC

**********

Fun & Games

Useful Links, Info & Numbers

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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DigameXtra Sponsors

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Home Page and FB Page

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Mandy’s Tel: 680739577

Home Page

Axarquia Silver & Gold Trade +34-606423869

FB Page & Home Page

Home Page – Based in Torrox Costa, near the bus station.

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DigameXtra cannot be responsible for incorrect info in reader or sponsor posts or event announcements. Always confirm the details to avoid disappointment.

DigameXtra No. 3196 Monday, March 2nd, 2026

On March 2, 2026March 1, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

SUBMISSIONS INFO & RULES PAGE LINK

DONATIONS INFO PAGE LINK

*Subscribe to receive free daily issues by email. To subscribe, please send me an email with the message “subscribe me to DigameXtra” from the email account you want subscribed.

*By making a submission you are indicating you have read and agree to follow the rules. RULES PAGE LINK: https://digamextra.com/about/

*Send your submissions & subscription requests to digamextra@protonmail.com

Note: The submission deadline is 6pm for the next day’s issue.

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DigameXtra Featured Sponsor

Website

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Sincere thanks to all the Holiday Fundraiser donors! Donations continue to be accepted, info here: https://digamextra.com/donation-information/

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WHAT’S ON

Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!

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PHOENIX CLUB

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Almuñécar House of Culture: Bob Marley Tribute
Thurs, 5 March, 7pm, €15. Leroy Onestone & the Fireballs, a Bob Marley tribute. Info & tix: https://lacocheraentradas.com/shows/details/2358…

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Almuñécar’s Municipal Market Reopens Tues, 10 March:
– With 44 stalls, 90 jobs, and a 230 space parking lot.

***********

Weather Forecast from https://weather.com/

Tap or click image for updated forecast with more details

**********

Warning Note: Possible high waves (3m) until Tuesday, 11:59pm.

**********

Latest Weather Alerts & Advisories For Andalucia: https://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos?k=and

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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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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 
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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

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AXARQUIA SILVER & GOLD TRADE

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For Sale: KUNET mobile Airconditioner, model no KAC2510. With remote control and hose.
Perfect condition. Hardly used. 80 euros.
Contact Stuart, Algarrobo, Tel 665190121
stuart burnett 53 at gmail dot com

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NEWS & ARTICLES

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

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SPAIN

Morocco spends twice as much as Spain on modernising its army: {Translation, summary}
– Spain faces a growing military disadvantage compared with Morocco in the fields of drones, rapid reaction and the defence of its North African territories. Morocco has modernised rapidly, buying advanced American aircraft, helicopters, tanks and HIMARS, as well as Israeli air defence, rocket and drone systems, and now operates more than 230 armed drones with sustained combat use and plans for large scale production. From Israel, it has acquired the Barak MX multi layer air defence system, operational since January, the PULS guided rocket system and dozens of SpyX loitering munitions (unmanned aerial vehicles, often called suicide or kamikaze drones, that combine drone and missile traits) whose new Moroccan factory, inaugurated in November 2025 in Benslimane, is the first Israeli defence plant in North Africa. Spain, by contrast, has no armed drones in service, only short range air defence in its North African enclaves, and will not field the Eurodrone before 2028.
– At the same time, the Spanish Armed Forces suffer a serious demographic crisis: up to 23,000 personnel below the legal ceiling, declining recruitment ratios, poor pay and conditions, and a shrinking youth cohort, leaving elite units under strength. While Morocco spends about 4.2 percent of GDP on defence, Spain reached 2 percent only through creative accounting.
– Ceuta and Melilla are portrayed as highly exposed, with no permanent medium range air defence and limited capacity to receive heavy reinforcements quickly. NATO and EU guarantees for these territories are described as ambiguous, and analysts warn that Spain would initially face any crisis alone. The article concludes that the true Achilles heel is political will rather than purely military capacity. Source, Spanish: https://www.larazon.es/espana/marruecos-gasta-doble-que-espana-actualizar-ejercito_2026030169a398399243cc133c69e2f9.html

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Sánchez’s government is now the only one in the Eurozone that has not sent a budget plan to the EU for two consecutive years: {Translation, summary}
– Pedro Sánchez’s government has become the only one in the Eurozone failing to submit a budget plan to the EU for two consecutive years, spotlighting severe fiscal mismanagement. Spain stands alone among peers, with neither 2025 nor 2026 plans delivered despite EU stability requirements. Germany, France and others complied promptly, leaving Madrid as the outlier breaching rules.
– Coalition infighting with regional separatists has paralysed draft approval, turning budget talks into endless horse-trading. The 2026 budget, already months overdue, remains stalled as Sánchez prioritises political survival.
Markets punish the delay: Spanish bonds face sell-offs, credit ratings wobble, and investors pull back amid uncertainty. Growth falters, public debt swells, and potential EU fines loom large.
– Opposition leaders slam Sánchez’s incompetence, demanding snap elections to end the dithering. Critics argue his fragile pacts erode governance, risking national stability in a tense economic climate. Source, Spanish: https://www.elmundo.es/economia/macroeconomia/2026/03/01/69a1c99afc6c837f728b45ca.html

MALAGA CITY

Changes in the ‘parking’ of the Civil hospital in Malaga; it will be left without half of the spaces: {Translation, summary}
– Important changes in access by car to the Civil Hospital of Malaga from next week. The Andalusian Health Service (SAS) informs that, from Tuesday, March 3, and due to the progress of the works of the future parking lot of the Virgen de la Esperanza Regional Hospital, there will be a new temporary reorganization of the ‘parking’.
– During this period, the capacity of the car park will be reduced to approximately half of the usual, so around 330 spaces will be available. In addition, vehicle access will be made exclusively through Blas de Lezo street, as the entrance on Arroyo de los Ángeles Avenue will be temporarily disabled for this purpose. This limitation will not affect the usual transit of ambulances or other authorised vehicles.
– This measure will be necessary until the provisional car park is put into operation, which is scheduled to open in mid-April. Once this temporary enclosure comes into service, access will once again be from Arroyo de los Ángeles Avenue, although at a different point to the current one, adapted to the new configuration of the works and the future development of the hospital complex. The Board informs that these actions are part of the process of transformation and modernization of the health complex, which will strengthen the healthcare capacity and improve the healthcare infrastructures of the province. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/malaga-capital/hospital-civil-reorganizara-aparcamiento-martes-perderan-mitad-20260228115547-nt_amp.html

TORROX

Torrox Dia de Andalucia Photos:

CÓMPETA

The bus line between Corumbela, Árchez, Canillas de Albaida and Cómpeta has been suspended due to a road closure: {Translation, summary}
– The transport company in charge of the route has reported that, as of March 4, 2026, the regular line service connecting Corumbela, Árchez, Canillas de Albaida, and Cómpeta will be suspended due to a road closure affecting the usual route.
As the company has informed its users, the interruption of the service will remain in effect until further notice, as the route cannot be operated normally. The company has expressed regret for any inconvenience this situation may cause to travelers, pointing out that it is a circumstance beyond their control.
– For the time being, the routes passing through Sayalonga and Algarrobo will maintain their regular schedules established in recent weeks, so those journeys will not be affected by the announced suspension.
– In light of this situation, the local councils in the area have conveyed a message of reassurance to public transport users. Municipal authorities from the region have stated that coordinated efforts are already underway with the Málaga Delegation of the Andalusian Regional Ministry of Development to try to ensure the continuity of the service.
Local officials have reminded residents that this bus is used daily by students, workers, and elderly people, and that various alternatives are being studied to maintain the connection while the road remains closed. They have also indicated that any updates will be communicated through official channels. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/anuncian-la-suspension-de-la-linea-de-autobus-entre-corumbela-archez-canillas-de-albaida-y-competa-por-un-corte-de-carretera/

CANILLAS DE ACEITUNO

The road between Canillas de Aceituno and Sedella will be closed again for roadworks starting Monday: {Translation, summary}
– The work is expected to continue throughout next week.
– The MA-4105 road, which connects Canillas de Aceituno with Sedella, will remain closed to traffic for part of the day starting Monday, March 2, due to the start of emergency works on the route.
– The work will take place at kilometer point 1+380, where rock and material slides from the slope onto the roadway have been recorded. To allow the work to be carried out safely, the road will be closed daily between approximately 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., reopening at the end of each workday. Source, Spanish: https://www.axarquiaplus.es/la-carretera-entre-canillas-de-aceituno-y-sedella-volver

GRANADA

Sierra Nevada will extend its ski season until May: {Translation, summary}
– Sierra Nevada, benefiting from an exceptional snow season, will extend its winter schedule by one week until 3 May, weather permitting, thanks to the heavy snowfalls of February. According to Regional Minister Rocío Díaz, the measure will help visitors and businesses recover skiing days lost during earlier storms. The resort could remain the only ski destination open in southern Europe after Easter, with snow depths exceeding four metres in some high areas. Maintenance teams are repairing the Laguna chairlift, damaged by recent severe weather, and plan to reopen part of the zone using the Dílar lift.
– A spring ski pass called Snowspring will go on sale from 9 March, offering two days of skiing for 72 euros, valid until the end of the season. Alongside skiing, Sierra Nevada has organised numerous spring events including Sun and Snow Festival, Ultra Sierra Nevada, and concerts in Borreguiles and Pradollano. Source, Spanish: https://www.granadahoy.com/sierra_nevada/sierra-nevada-ampliara-temporada-esqui_0_2006021497.html

MIDDLE EAST

US & Israel Attack On Iran Update– Iran vows revenge after Supreme Leader Khamenei killed, Israel says its air force strikes Tehran again, Iran missiles reach Cyprus: {Translation, summary}
– The death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, confirmed early Sunday morning by the regime after almost a day of speculation, has led to the threat of all-out war in the Middle East.
– In response to the assassination of its leader, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced a plan to attack more than 20 US bases, as well as targets in Israeli territory, in a new wave of bombings. The IRGC reported that it had launched, or was about to launch, attacks against 27 US military bases in the Middle East, following operations carried out the previous day against US targets in the Persian Gulf.
– The escalation has also drawn in Europe. Iran has reportedly attacked a British base in Cyprus, directly involving a European country in the conflict. UK Defense Secretary John Healey stated that two Iranian missiles were launched toward Cyprus, marking the first Iranian missile attack on European soil . However, Healey noted in an interview with Sky News that they are “fairly confident that our bases were not targeted.” The UK maintains two significant sovereign base zones in Cyprus. At the same time, the British minister warned that this incident is “an example of a very real and growing threat.”
– Latest updates from same “live updates” article:
* One dead and 32 wounded in Kuwait from Iranian attacks, according to the Ministry of Health
* Iran assures its neighbours that it is not seeking to attack them, but warns: “We will attack US bases on your territory.”
* Israeli aircraft launch another wave of bombings against the “heart” of Tehran
* The death toll from the Iranian missile attack in Beit Shemesh, near Jerusalem, has risen to nine
* The UAE claims to have repelled an attack by two Iranian drones against a military base in Abu Dhabi
* Reza Pahlavi, the heir to the Shah deposed in 1979, from exile, calls on Iranian officials to surrender and declare their loyalty to him
Source, Spanish: https://www.larazon.es/internacional/ataque-israel-eeuu-iran-directo-hoy-explosiones-muertos-ultima-hora_2026030169a3d06d9243cc133c6a2f99.html

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Ayatollah Khamenei, Mohammad Pakpour and more– Top Iranian leaders killed in US-Israel strikes:
– Iran is facing one of the most dramatic ruptures in its political and military leadership since the 1979 Islamic Revolution after coordinated United States and Israeli airstrikes killed several of the country’s most powerful figures on Saturday. The strikes, carried out under two parallel military campaigns — Operation Epic Fury by Washington and Operation Roaring Lion by Tel Aviv — targeted Iran’s top decision-makers, triggering retaliatory missile launches from Tehran.
– The casualty number went into dozens and included Iran’s supreme leader {pic}, the chief of army staff, the defence minister, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), senior security advisers, intelligence officers and officials associated with Iran’s nuclear and advanced weapons research programmes. Full article: https://www.firstpost.com/explainers/who-were-iran-leaders-killed-us-israel-strikes-13984999.html

ENERGY CRISIS

Green Fail – Major electricity companies record an accounting loss of more than 1.2 billion euros due to their renewable energy plants: {Translation, summary}
– Spain’s renewable push has backfired for giants Iberdrola, Endesa, and Naturgy, with over 1,200 million euros in 2025 write-offs. Iberdrola had 1,081 million, largely from US green assets amid Trump policies, permit delays, tariffs, and 10 per cent price drops against rising costs. Endesa booked 150 million (2025) and 124 million (2024) losses from stalled permits and weak returns; Naturgy added 56 million via scrapped projects and Galician court halts on licensed turbines.
– Solar overcapacity since 2018 floods midday markets, logging 2,637 hours below 30 euros/MWh (over 30 per cent negative) last year, spurring write-offs. In the post-April blackout era output restrictions favour gas. Spain poured 32,000 million euros into solar (37 GW) and wind (33 GW) over a decade, but low prices, legal snags, and oversupply now erode profitability despite green ambitions. Source, Spanish: https://www.elmundo.es/economia/empresas/2026/03/01/699d7b72fc6c832d4c8b4589.html

FASHION

Red carpet of the 2026 Goya Awards, hits and misses at the big gala of Spanish cinema:
– Full 40 pic gallery: https://www.20minutos.es/mujer/moda/alfombra-roja-premios-goya-2026-aciertos-errores-gran-gala-cine-espanol_6940223_0.html

TRAVEL

The PP denounces the collapse in border control at Malaga airport: {Translation}
– The People’s Party (PP) has denounced the “collapse” that the European Union passenger border control at Málaga Airport has been experiencing for months and warns that these “hours-long queues” are damaging the reputation of the Málaga brand. The PP’s general coordinator in Málaga, Cristóbal Ortega, criticized the “inaction” of the Ministers of the Interior and of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Fernando Grande-Marlaska and Óscar Puente, respectively, in the face of this situation.
– In a statement, he emphasized that “chaos has taken over the control of non-EU passengers” and that this situation has worsened “due to the Government’s lack of foresight” regarding the airport’s annual passenger growth, which rose by 7.4% in 2025, reaching nearly 27 million travellers.
– “The inability of this Government to properly manage the new non-EU passenger control is undermining the province’s tourism sector,” he warned. He added that “the province is being blocked not only by land but also by air. The Sánchez government wants to erase Málaga from the map, as shown by its inaction in addressing mobility problems and the exponential growth of the airport.” Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/pp-denuncia-colapso-control-fronterizo-aeropuerto-malaga_0_2006031561.html

SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES

*Click links to read the English language articles*

Government says it is ready to discuss Granada coastal train, Nerja to Motril
https://www.surinenglish.com/andalucia/costa-tropical/the-government-says-ready-discuss-the-coastal-20260226102059-nt.html
– Rising temperatures bring forward arrival of pine processionary caterpillars
https://www.surinenglish.com/lifestyle/health/processionary-caterpillars-the-rise-can-cause-inflammation-20260227104549-nt.html
– Date confirmed for reopening of 900 seat Vélez-Málaga theatre after 40 years of closure {pic}
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/the-lope-vega-theatre-velezmalaga-reopens-after-20260227142147-nt.html

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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

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EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com

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Last updated Mar 1, 2026, 16:30 UTC

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Fun & Games

Useful Links, Info & Numbers

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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DigameXtra No. 3195 LONG WEEKEND SPECIAL EDITION Thursday, February 26th, 2026

On February 26, 2026February 26, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Sincere thanks to all the Holiday Fundraiser donors! Donations continue to be accepted, info here: https://digamextra.com/donation-information/

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Next Public Holiday: Día de Andalucía
In 2026, Andalucia Regional Holiday falls on Saturday, 28 February.
When an Andalucia Regional Holiday falls on a weekend, many businesses and people will observe the previous Friday, or the following Monday, as a day off in order to create a three-day weekend. Ref: https://publicholidays.es/andalusia-regional-holiday/

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Editor’s Holiday – DigameXtra Will Be Closed Friday, 27 Feb, 2026

Items scheduled for posting in the Friday, 27 Feb. Weekend Edition, will appear one day early, Thursday, 26 Feb.
Time your submissions appropriately. To be included in the long weekend Thursday issue submissions must be received by 6pm Wednesday.

NEXT ISSUE MONDAY, 2 MARCH

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WHAT’S ON

Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!

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41 CLUB NERJA

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Live Jazz In Competa: Thurs, 26 Feb
Oliver, Paz & Mormandi band live at Siddhartha on the Rock in Competa
Supported by The Cool Cats (Ian Thompson, Mitch France and Pam Web), with a selection of jazz standards.
Doors open 6pm, food available 6-8pm, opening act 8pm, headliners at 9pm
Tickets are €20pp, available direct from Siddhartha (Fri – Sun 12 – 12) or call Siddhartha on 952516748 or 628177424. Or reserve your tickets and pay on the door by emailing: jazzcompeta@hotmail.com
Oliver, Paz & Mormandi bring an intimate and soulful approach to live jazz, blending saxophone, vocals, and guitar into a sound that is both timeless and fresh. Their repertoire moves effortlessly between classic standards, smooth jazz grooves, and subtle Latin influences, creating an atmosphere that is elegant, warm, and deeply expressive. Check them out here: Video Link

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El Burgo (Málaga)- Soup of the Seven Branches 2026: Sat, 28 Feb
XX edition of the Sopa de los Siete Ramales in El Burgo, Málaga. Gastronomic festival declared to be Tourist Singularity which takes place every year on February 28, Andalusia Day. The celebration begins in the early hours of the morning with the preparation of the soup, to which both locals and tourists are invited. The peak moment comes around 2:00 p.m., when we proceed to the tasting of this delicious soup. Throughout the day there are musical shows that liven up the stay. Also noteworthy is the mercadillo artesanal where you can buy typical products of the area.
Soup of the Seven Branches: This famous soup owes its name to the main ingredients with which it is prepared: tomato, pepper, onion, garlic, bread, mint and wild asparagus. Source: https://www.cuandopasa.com/index.php?v=v118395j

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Live music in Friggy from Lee Townsend’s GeckoBlaster Band:
Sat, 28 Feb, 7pm
El Palacio, Plaza De La Tres Culturas 28, 29788 Frigiliana
Info & res: https://www.elpalacio-frigiliana.com/event-details/geckoblaster
Band Website: https://geckoblaster.com/ & Video Link

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Car Boot Sale, El Pantano, Vinuela, Sunday 1st March:
– Our ever popular car boot which was rained off for February market is this Sunday 1st March and we all look forward to seeing you there. It is from 0930 – 1300 hours. Besides our ever popular stallholders which draw in large crowds we also have a number of new ones joining us offering varied items for sale.
Directions: km. 30 on the A356 in the car park of El Pantano restaurant overlooking the lake.
For further information contact Sandra/Sandy on 633878471.

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Easter music in Malaga: If you’d like to get into the mood for Holy Week before it arrives, get a ticket to one of these concerts:
– Fri, 20 March at 7pm and Sat, 21 March at noon.
The Larios Pop del Soho Symphonic Orchestra play Holy Week processional music, with a backdrop of videos and scenes from Easter in Malaga at the Soho Theatre.
Info & tickets available from this link. €25-€35. https://www.elcorteingles.es/entradas/channels/teatro-soho/performance/performance-50389503893087-soho_onebox-channel
– Thursday 26 and Friday 27 March at 8pm.
Malaga Opera Choir and several renowned soloists join Malaga’s Philharmonic Orchestra for the traditional Easter concert at the Cervantes Theatre. The programme includes Bach’s Easter Oratorio and Mozart’s Requiem (take extra hankies). Info & tix (€12-€36): https://www.teatrocervantes.com/en/genero/ofm/temporada-2025-26/semana-santa-j-s-bach-w-a-mozart-2030

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Flamenco Festival in Soho Theatre, Malaga:
– Marina Heredia. Thurs, 12 March at 8pm.
Heredia is one of Spain’s most prominent flamenco singers and this new performance explores the history of centuries of gypsy culture through flamenco song. Video Link 1
– Manuel Lombo. Fri, 27 March at 8pm.
Another key figure on the Spanish flamenco scene, Lombo brings his distinctive voice and piano to this concert. Video Link 2
– Tickets (€22.50 to €45) are available from the Theatre box office (on Calle Córdoba) or online here: https://www.elcorteingles.es/entradas/channels/teatro-soho/

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La Villa del Mar Free Concerts:
La Villa del Mar (part of the Malaga Film Festival) has free concerts every day from Saturday 7 to Thursday 12 March. Enjoy them on La Malagueta beach (next to Antonio Martin Restaurant – Google map link here).
– Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th: 12:30h. ROCK SNEAKS INTO THE CINEMA. An educational concert designed to be enjoyed with the family, full of energy and fun.
– Saturday 7th: 6:00 p.m. THE TARGETS. An explosive mix of acid pop and luminous punk.
– Sunday 8th: 6:00 p.m. GARCÍA PICASSO. It proposes a universe where conceptual, visual and humanistic art meets music.
– Monday 9th: 6:00 p.m. FUNKONAUTS. A band that takes funk beyond conventional boundaries, fusing classic influences with a modern and energetic approach.
– Tuesday 10: 6:00 p.m. JOSE CARRA AND RAQUEL PELAYO. A concert that explores the universe of cinema from the perspective of jazz, reinterpreting iconic melodies from the big screen.
– Wednesday 11: 6:00 p.m. VICKY KING BAND. La Banda bursts onto the scene in 2019 with a powerful and elegant proposal that fuses rock, soul and blues.
– Thursday 12th: 6:00 p.m. ANGELA HOODOO. One of the most solid and authentic proposals of American roots music in Spain. Their sound fuses outlaw country, rhythm & blues, blues and rock’n’roll, with their own contemporary identity.
See full program here: https://festivaldemalaga.com/edicion/actividades/conciertos-la-villa-del-mar/ & Google Map

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Latest Weather Alerts & Advisories For Andalucia: https://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos?k=and

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GREEK CASITA RESTAURANT & BAR

The Greek House – Greek Casita Restaurant & Bar –Torrox Costa: Now with Sunday Lunch!
Located on the sea promenade, between the Safari bar and Picadero restaurants, BLQ 80 bajo. We offer you a little piece of Greece with our Greek home made specialities. You can choose meat specialties (Gyros, Souvlaki, Bifteki, Sutsukaki, Mussaka), cheese (Feta Psiti, Feta Saganaki, Hallumi), vegetables (Greek salad, Hummus, Eggplant cream, Mezze, Tzatziki) or sea fruits (prawns or octopus), all of this accompanied with our special Greek pita bread. For dessert… HOMEMADE BAKLAVA! We offer a lovely meal time in a quiet and exquisite atmosphere, accompanied with the best Greek music. See you soon! Hours: 6:30pm to close, Wednesday thru Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday. For reservations call 642585049. https://la-casita-griega.business.site/ We are DigameXtra sponsors, so our contact info can be found everyday in the Sponsor’s Section.

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DOCTORLAPTOP’S COMPUTER REPAIRS & SALES

DoctorLaptop’s Full Maintenance Clean & TuneUp: Only €65
If you rely on your computer and want it running at peak performance, free of data collectors and trackers, an annual professional servicing is necessary. You wouldn’t drive your car till it runs out of oil before servicing it, would you? I do the most comprehensive cleaning and tune-up possible: verify all System files replacing any found to be corrupt, test all hardware and do hard disk sector repairs if needed, use 5 tool malware/adware/spyware/tracker removal protocol, clean out junk files/logs/history/etc., update Windows+all drivers+programs and finally optimize your settings and registry for fastest overall performance.
Heavily infected comps, computers taking more than 2 minutes to startup or shutdown, or showing error messages– those need a repair, not a maintenance service, ask for rates. HDD hard disks of 1000Gb or more add €10.
DoctorLaptop’s Computer Repairs- Torrox Costa
Windows & Linux computers only. No tablets or phones.
I don’t work on computers made before 2019 unless I have been servicing then annually.
Contact: doctorlaptop AT protonmail DOT com
or call 675 993 069 (no calls before 12noon, missed calls returned asap). Always include the make & model number of the device when requesting assistance.

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BUY / SELL / TRADE / RENT / WANTED

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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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For Sale: Brand New Powerful Laptop- Acer Aspire Go 15 AG15
Windows 11 Pro. System, UK English. Keyboard, Spanish.
15.6″ Full HD IPS LCD (1920 x 1080) display with Acer BluelightShield to reduce blue light exposure.
512Gb SSD MVMe; 16 Gb RAM
AMD Ryzen 5 5625U (up to 4.3GHz), 6 core, 12 threads
3x USB 3.2; 1x USB-C; Wifi 6; HDMI 2.1; Bluetooth 5.1; Ethernet
Weight: 1.8kg. Mfg. date: 15Mar25 (Win 12 ready). Factory warranty upon registration.
Ref: https://store.acer.com/en-gb/acer-aspire-go-15-laptop-ag15-42p-silver
Price: €420 cash (£549.99 on Acer UK website, ) a great price for a solid, mid-line laptop! Only 2 left! DoctorLaptop, Torrox Costa
Email: doctorlaptop@protonmail.com

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RECOMMENDATIONS, REQUESTS, COMMENTS & SUBSCRIBER SOAPBOX

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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NEWS & ARTICLES

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

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MALAGA PROVINCE

Murders increase and kidnappings double in Malaga in 2025 despite the drop in robberies: {Translation, summary}
– Crimes against life, integrity, and freedom rose in 2025, with homicides increasing by 13% to 26 cases. The most significant rise was in kidnappings, which more than doubled to 17 cases, a 112.5% increase. Serious injury and brawl offences rose by 7.3%, while sexual crimes rose by 2.4%, though sexual assaults with penetration decreased by 2.8%. However, attempted homicides fell by 7.8%. Property crimes decreased by 7.29%, with robberies falling 0.9%, and burglaries with force dropping 22.6%. Vehicle thefts increased slightly by 0.8%. Drug-related crimes decreased by 4.8%, continuing a trend of slight reduction. Cybercrime surged, rising by 6.4%, with online fraud and cyber offences showing significant growth. The overall crime rate increased by 2%, from 102,232 in 2024 to 104,234 in 2025. Despite this, the Government’s Deputy Delegate in Málaga highlighted positive trends in public concern areas, praising the work of security forces. Source, Spanish: https://www.andaluciainformacion.es/articulo/malaga-sucesos/bajan-robos-hurtos-malaga-mientras-repunta-cibercriminalidad-crecen-algunos-delitos-violento/202602241408593218913.html

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Málaga will continue without a direct high-speed train to Madrid, at least until 23 March: {Translation, summary}
– The direct train link between Málaga and Madrid will remain unavailable until at least 23 March 2026, following severe weather that caused significant disruptions. A landslide near Álora buried the tracks, delaying the service. Although high-speed trains between Madrid and Andalusia resumed on 17 February, the direct Málaga-Madrid route is still suspended. Renfe is offering an alternative with a combined bus and train journey to Antequera.
– The lack of transparency from Adif and the Ministry of Transport has sparked complaints from local officials, including Francisco Salado, the president of the Diputación de Málaga, who criticised the delay, particularly as Easter approaches. The economic impact of the disruption is significant, with estimates of losses rising beyond 109 million euros. Political leaders, including José Ramón Carmona, have also condemned the crisis for damaging the reputation of the high-speed service and putting tourism at risk. Source, Spanish: https://www.laopiniondemalaga.es/malaga/2026/02/25/malaga-seguira-ave-directo-madrid-127265196.html

NERJA

Poaching in Maro- a group that decapitated mountain goats dismantled: {Translation, summary}
– The Civil Guard dismantled a criminal group suspected of illegal wild goat hunting in protected areas near Maro-Cerro Gordo and the Sierras de Tejeda. The operation, ‘Operation Venatus’, led to three individuals being investigated for wildlife crimes, document forgery, and criminal association.
– The investigation began after decapitated wild goats were found in the Maro-Cerro Gordo cliffs, a shared protected area of Málaga and Granada. The culprits used the mating season and rugged terrain to target valuable older male goats. They tried to cover up their actions by using hunting tags for areas outside the park, claiming the animals were legally hunted in Granada. However, evidence revealed they were operating illegally within the Natura 2000 Network. The case has been forwarded to the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office, and firearm licences were requested to be revoked. This marks another step in tackling poaching in the region, where such incidents had sparked public concern. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/sucesos/golpe-furtivismo-maro-desarticulado-grupo-decapitaba-cabras-20260225093659-nt_amp.html

ALCAUCÍN

42 homes in Alcaucín are being auctioned off to cover a mortgage debt of over eight million euros: {Translation, summary}
– The courts have ordered the public auction of 42 homes, parking spaces, and storage units in Alcaucín, Axarquía, due to a mortgage debt exceeding eight million euros. The auction, published on the BOE Auction Portal, involves properties in a rapidly developing residential area. The homes are being auctioned individually, with starting prices ranging from approximately 130,000 to 260,000 euros, depending on size and condition.
– The auction will be conducted online, and interested bidders must deposit 5% of the auction value to participate. The development lacks an occupancy licence, and the exact possession status of each property is not specified, requiring bidders to conduct their own checks. If insufficient bids are made, further rounds with reduced starting prices will follow. This auction is one of the largest real estate enforcement processes in Axarquía in recent years and highlights the legal risks of unpaid mortgage obligations. Bidding ends on 12 March. Source, Spanish: https://www.diariosur.es/axarquia/subastan-alcaucin-viviendas-cubrir-deuda-hipotecaria-20260223150157-nt_amp.html

SCAMS

Identity Theft & Home Title Fraud In Malaga: {Translation, summary}
– A Fuengirola court is investigating a real estate scam involving a beachfront villa in Marbella, which was allegedly sold without the owners’ consent through forged documents. The villa belongs to an Austrian couple living in Miami, who were unaware that their property had been registered in someone else’s name. The fraud was discovered when the alleged intruders broke into the property and presented false ownership documentation. The property was sold for €320,000, a price considered suspiciously low. The buyer was a recently formed company with minimal capital, and the payment was made via cheque to a supposed representative.
– The case highlights an emerging trend of selling vacant homes without the owner’s knowledge. Interpol is investigating the authenticity of the documents, and the villa is under police surveillance. While precautionary measures have been taken, the couple has not yet been able to return to their property. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/matrimonio-descubre-chalet-marbella-vendido_0_2005988144.html

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Identity Theft In Almeria: {Translation, summary}
– The Civil Guard is investigating two individuals in Almería accused of using a citizen’s National Identity Document (DNI) to open multiple online betting accounts fraudulently. They allegedly obtained more than €46,000 in benefits, which the Tax Agency mistakenly attributed to the victim.
– The investigation began after the victim reported economic gains on his tax return that he had never received. The suspects, with previous criminal records for similar offences, used the victim’s personal details to open eight accounts on various online betting platforms. The case involves charges of fraud, identity theft, criminal organisation, and money laundering. The investigation has been presented to the courts. The Civil Guard advises against sharing copies of DNI via email or insecure websites and recommends regularly checking financial records to detect unrecognised activities or income to prevent such fraud. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/andalucia/almeria/dos-investigados-por-suplantar-identidad-un-tercero-que-achacaron-hacienda-ganancias-46-000-euros-apuestas_6937958_0.html

TRAVEL

UK to ban those without an electronic travel authorisation from flying: {Translation, summary}
– From 25 February 2025, the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) must be approved before travel, meaning passengers can no longer board with only proof of application. This affects all Spaniards and other EU citizens who do not reside in the UK, including children, travelling for short stays. Those transiting via the UK and passing through border control must also apply for the ETA, except for airside transits at Heathrow T4 and Manchester airports.
– Applications are submitted online through the official government site, with processing times ranging from minutes to three working days. The cost is £16 (around €18.30), and there is no refund if the application is denied. The ETA is valid for two years or until the associated passport expires. New ETAs will be required if the passport changes. Applicants should be wary of fraudulent premium services charging excessive fees for the application. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/viajes/actualidad/reino-unido-prohibira-volar-quienes-no-cuenten-autorizacion-electronica-viaje_6938691_0.html

OTHER

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame unveils “diverse list” of 2026 nominees:
– The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has unveiled its latest roster of nominees, including Phil Collins, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, INXS, Iron Maiden, Luther Vandross and Shakira. They’re among 17 performers who could be inducted into the iconic hall of fame, which celebrates artists from all corners of music, including rap, R&B, Britpop, metal, pop and most everything in between.
– Melissa Etheridge, Jeff Buckley, Pink, New Edition, Sade, the Wu-Tang Clan, the Black Crowes, Oasis, Joy Division/New Order and Billy Idol round out the list of 2026 nominees, which the Rock Hall released on Wednesday.
– Last year, Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Soundgarden, Joe Cocker, Salt-N-Pepa, The White Stripes, Carol Kaye, Nicky Hopkins, Lenny Waronker, Thom Bell and Warren Zevon all were inducted. Full article: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rock-and-roll-hall-of-fame-list-2026-nominees/

SUR in ENGLISH HEADLINES

*Click links to read the English language articles*

– Axarquía desalination plant draft project ready but limited electricity supply could stall plans
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/axarquia-desalination-plant-draft-project-ready-but-20260224131416-nt.html
– Vélez-Málaga plans new site for motorhomes
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/axarquia/velezmalaga-plans-new-site-for-motorhomes-20260223140947-nt.html

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CHURCHES & WORSHIP

Churches: Please submit your posts on Thursdays only, before 6pm.

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NEW LIFE CHURCH

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EL PUENTE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

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DOG ADOPTIONS

Axarquia Animal Rescue – Voluntary Charity – non profit organisation:
CIF G93245116 ; Charity Number 10567 (Spain)
Email: axarquia-rescue@hotmail.com
Website: www.axarquiaanimalrescue.com
– Aya – 6, small. Sadly due to the death of her owner she is looking for a new home. Aya would benefit from a quiet life and being the only dog. Fully neutered and vaccinated.
– Rosie – 3 months, Mastin and will be large in size. In a foster home with her siblings, sociable, loves people and other dogs. Fully vaccinated.
Please take a look at our website, where you will find more information and photos, plus details of other dogs and pups that we have in our care. Our adoption costs are 110e for pups that have been fully vaccinated, rabies, chip and passport. 180e for older dogs that have all vaccinations, neutered and passport. This contributes towards their vet and care costs, and helps us to continue rescuing abandoned dogs and cats.

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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

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EXCHANGE QUOTES FROM Xe.com

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Last updated Feb 26, 2026, 01:24 UTC

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Fun & Games

Useful Links, Info & Numbers

Taxi
Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
Emergency Services.: 112
National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
Torrox: 952 539 828
Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
https://www.20minutos.es/loterias/

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

DoctorLaptop’s Homepage: https://doctorlaptop-repairs.webnode.com/

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DigameXtra No. 3194 Wednesday, February 25th, 2026

On February 25, 2026February 25, 2026 By naythandoctorlaptop

Welcome to DigameXtra !

The Most Popular English Language Daily Newsletter In Andalucia

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WHAT’S ON

Tell them you saw it on DigameXtra!

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Andalusia Day in Torrox: Sat, 28 Feb
From 11:30am on Avenida del Faro, Torrox Costa
The Andalusia Day celebrations will begin with performances by the Las Nieves, La Biznaga, Musical Almedina, Aires del Faro and Agua Salá choirs, followed by speeches on stage by the spokespersons of the various political groups represented on the municipal council, as well as the mayor of Torrox. This will be followed by a stellar performance by singer José Manuel Soto.

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Andalusia Day in Periana: Sat, 28 Feb
It will begin at 10am with a circular horseback route. An hour later, the flag of Andalusia will be raised and a manifesto will be read. Then Coro Rociero Camino de Olivares choir will perform.
At 1:30 p.m., Abraham Ortiz’s folk dance groups will perform. An hour later, sports awards will be presented.
At 4:30 p.m., the Panda de Verdiales de Periana will perform. This will be followed by a horse ribbon race.
At 7:00 p.m., Luis Molero will perform, followed by José Dance. There will be a local DJ throughout the day.

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Boxing evening- Torrox: Sat, 28 Feb, 7pm
Pabellon Municipal La Granja, Torrox
On February 28, the Municipal Pavilion will host a great boxing evening, a sporting event that will bring together outstanding fighters and fans in a night full of emotion and spectacle. Info: 952539927

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Vélez-Málaga- Día de Andalucía: Sat, 28 Feb
– The celebration will begin at 12:30 p.m. with the Institutional Ceremony, which will feature the Vélez-Málaga Municipal Band, on the Paseo de Andalucía. At 1:00 p.m., the show “Vélez-Málaga sings to Andalusia” will be held.
– At 3:00 p.m., there will be a flamenco dance performance by the Cristina Gallardo Academy; at 4:00 p.m., the renowned artist Sarayma will perform; and the closing act will take place at 6:00 p.m. with the group “Electroduendes.”

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Andalusia Day Competa 2026: Saturday, 28 Feb.
A typical Andalusian breakfast will take place in the Plaza Almijara, open to everyone, to celebrate this important date. In addition, the day will feature flamenco dance and music performances, which will highlight the cultural identity of our land. Info, more details will be announced closer to the date: https://turismocompeta.com/es/agenda/eventodetalle/247/-/dia-de-andalucia

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Rincón de la Victoria reunirá en el Carnaval 2026:
Rincón de la Victoria will celebrate five days of carnival: March 1 in Benagalbón, March 7 and 8 in La Cala del Moral, and March 14 and 15 in Rincón de la Victoria.
**Programme**
– 1st March – Benagalbón (Plaza Las Flores)
12:00 pm Fancy Dress Competition
1:00 pm Merchán’s Carnival Troupe ‘Los Arbadacarba’
3:30 pm Eighties Group ‘Cara B’
5:00 pm Music of Yesterday and Today
– 7th March – La Cala del Moral (Plaza Gloria Fuertes)
4:00 pm Abelito y Terrones
6:00 pm Money Makers
8:00 pm DJ Androale
– 8th March – La Cala del Moral
12:00 pm Procession ‘A Bailar’ Association
1:00 pm Performance ‘A Bailar’ Association
2:00 pm Free Cabbage, Paprika and Pork with Tomato
4:00 pm Children’s and Adult Fancy Dress Competition
5:00 pm Carnival Performance Group ‘La Tierra Canta’
– 14th March – Rincón de la Victoria (Plaza de la Constitución)
7:00 pm Carnival Drag Contest 2026
– 15th March – Rincón de la Victoria
11:00 am Children’s Party with entertainment and workshops
11:30 am Procession with the Brass Band
12:00 pm Hot Chocolate and start of Children’s Competition
1:30 pm Adult Competition and performances
2:30 pm Prize Giving
4:00 pm Carnival Troupe ‘Los Máquina’
4:45 pm Carnival Performance Group ‘Los Calaveras’
5:30 pm Carnival Chorus Group ‘Los Cadisapiens’
6:30 pm Bizcocho’s Carnival Chorus Group ‘SSSHHHHH!!!’

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For Sale: Walking frame and clutches, in good condition.
50 euros. Can be sold separately. Stuart, Algarrobo
Email: stuart burnett 53 at gmail dot com ; 665190121

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NEWS & ARTICLES

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

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SPAIN

BREAKING NEWS– Pedro Sánchez has been treated for a cardiovascular ailment for months at the Ramón y Cajal Hospital: {Translation, summary}
– In recent months, a public debate has arisen around the health of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, with reports highlighting his physical decline and weight loss. Visible signs such as pronounced facial features and dark circles suggest stress-related exhaustion from his political position. Media outlets have speculated that Sánchez, 53, may be suffering from chronic stress, and images from July showing atrophy in his hands and prominent veins sparked further concern.
– Exclusive sources reveal that Sánchez is being treated for a cardiovascular condition in secret at Ramón y Cajal Hospital, a key healthcare provider for high-ranking officials. Sources indicate that Sánchez is regularly monitored for potential heart issues, including thrombosis or a heart attack, with tests such as a helical CT scan to track the health of his coronary arteries. Leading cardiologist Dr. José Luis Zamorano has been heavily involved in his care.
– Reports suggest Sánchez is highly hypochondriacal and has been preoccupied with his health since taking office. His wife Begoña Gómez is said to have required that a medical advisor accompany him at all times for public events. The government has not responded to multiple requests for comments. Source, Spanish: https://www.libertaddigital.com/espana/2026-02-23/pedro-sanchez-es-tratado-por-un-dolencia-cardiovascular-desde-hace-meses-en-el-hospital-ramon-y-cajal-7363610/

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The Constitutional Court will address, for the first time, the Government’s failure to present the Budget in the last three years: {Translation, summary}
– The Constitutional Court has agreed to review the Senate’s conflict with the Government over its failure to present the General State Budgets for 2024, 2025, and 2026. The Senate argues that the Government has violated its constitutional obligation to present the budgets and that the practice of extending previous budgets is unconstitutional.
– The PP, with an absolute majority in the Senate, criticises this failure, emphasising that the Government cannot justify its actions on political grounds. They argue that not reaching an agreement with parliamentary forces is no excuse, and that the omission prevents the Senate from fulfilling its budgetary role. The Senate has called for the unconstitutionality of the extensions of the 2023 budget and requested a clear deadline for the Government to comply with its constitutional duty to present the required budgets. Source, Spanish: https://www.larazon.es/espana/abordara-primera-incumplimiento-gobierno-presentar-presupuestos-ultimos-tres-anos_20260224699da1fd2f00a046882542b1.html

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Hypocrite Minister Albares criticises Hungary’s “hijacking of the majority will” of the EU– sort of like what Spain is doing with EU defence spending: {Translation, summary}
– The Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, José Manuel Albares {pic}, was very critical on Tuesday of Hungary’s veto of a new loan of 90,000 million to Ukraine and a new package of sanctions against Russia during his visit to Kiev. He warned of the impact this has on the Ukrainian population and argued that a single country cannot hijack the will of the majority {…unless Spain is doing it?- Ed.} Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/videos/video-albares-critica-secuestro-voluntad-mayoritaria-ue-hungria-20260224155922.html

ANDALUCÍA

Andalucía records its highest ever population figure, exceeding eight and a half million inhabitants: {Translation, summary}
– The Institute of Statistics and Cartography of Andalusia (IECA) has published ‘Andalusia and Provinces… How have we changed?’, where it highlighted that since the beginning of the 80s in Andalusia “we have gone from being less than six and a half million inhabitants to more than eight million 700 thousand today, that the average number of children per woman has decreased from 2.7 to 1.2 or that the number of contributory pensions has gone from just over 675 thousand to almost one million 720 thousand. Source, Spanish: https://www.teleprensa.com/articulo/sevilla/andalucia-registra-cifra-poblacion-mas-alta-historia-superando-ocho-millones-medio-habitantes/202602241052372350744.html

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Bernal warns that tourism is suffering from the railway disconnection with between 20% and 30% fewer bookings and Easter on the horizon: {Translation, summary}
– Arturo Bernal, the Minister for Tourism and External Affairs of Andalusia, warned that the lack of a railway connection with Andalusia would seriously harm the tourism sector, particularly as Easter approaches. He revealed a 20 to 30% reduction in bookings compared to last year, with an estimated loss of 190 million euros. He criticised the lack of clear communication from the Spanish government about when the railway service would be restored, stressing that tourism depends on certainty and planning. Bernal also called on the Spanish government to address not only railway issues but also the problems facing coastal municipalities affected by storms. He urged the government to “get its act together” on infrastructure and coastal restoration. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/andalucia/malaga-00356/noticia-bernal-advierte-turismo-resiente-desconexion-ferroviaria-20-30-menos-reservas-20260224175047.html

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Cash for pet projects, but only tax deductions to residents with storm damages– Junta announces deductions in personal income tax and other tax reductions for families affected by the storms– sounds like an insurance company bailout: {Translation, summary}
– The Andalusian government continues to implement measures to help those affected by the recent storm that caused severe damage to homes and businesses. Following the launch of the mysterious Andalucía Activa plan, which includes nearly 1.8 billion euros, {the funding for which has not been revealed, probably more public debt, as they have no budget surplus to spend. And why is the Junta responsible for reimbursing disaster event damages that insurance companies used to shoulder? -Ed.} the government of Juanma Moreno will approve a “package of fiscal measures” this Wednesday. These measures include a personal income tax deduction (IRPF) for homes damaged by the storm, allowing owners to deduct the costs of repairs. A new deduction will also be introduced for the purchase of replacement homes. Furthermore, there will be a rental deduction for those who have had to rent properties while theirs are being rehabilitated. Source, Spanish: https://www.20minutos.es/andalucia/junta-anuncia-deducciones-irpf-otras-rebajas-fiscales-las-familias-afectadas-por-las-borrascas_6938365_0.html

TORROX

The PP votes against Big Brother increases in surveillance in Torrox: {Translation, summary}
– Mari Nieves Ramírez, spokesperson for the Socialist Municipal Group in Torrox Town Hall, reviewed the last council meeting, highlighting that the PSOE presented two proposals, one of which aimed at increasing surveillance under the guise of improving the town.
– The first focused on boosting security in public spaces by allocating 100,000 euros for better surveillance in car parks, playgrounds, and rural roads, which was rejected by the PP and Vox who don’t want new facial recognition enabled spy-cams and resident tracking plate-readers installed.
– The other proposal called for a fairer funding system to improve essential services like building a large health centre, adding a second ambulance, and offering more training for the unemployed. This was also rejected by PP and Vox.
– Ramírez criticised the opposition parties for avoiding local issues and focusing on national politics, while emphasising that the Socialist group would continue to work with concrete proposals for what they believe is the betterment of Torrox, its neighbourhoods, and its residents. Source, Spanish: https://axarquia-news.es/el-pp-vota-en-contra-de-reforzar-la-seguridad-y-la-vigilancia-en-aparcamientos-parques-infantiles-y-caminos-rurales-de-torrox/

COSTA TROPICAL

La III Feria “La Despensa de la Costa Tropical”
(The Pantry of the Costa Tropical): {Translation, summary}
– Sat, 28 Feb.
– The third edition of the Agro-food Fair “La Despensa de la Costa Tropical” will take place on 28 February at Plaza de las Marismas. Organised by the Mancomunidad de Municipios de la Costa Tropical, the Torrenueva Costa Town Hall, and the Granada Provincial Council, the fair will feature around twenty local businesses, showcasing a wide range of agro-food products. The event will also highlight the region’s gastronomic potential and support local commerce. This year, La Alpujarra has been invited to participate, with producers from the area joining the fair to enhance the experience for visitors. The fair serves as a key opportunity to promote local products, foster intermunicipal collaboration, and boost the local economy through quality goods from the Costa Tropical.
– Among the participating businesses from the Costa Tropical are Aceite Ecológico Camaleón, Quesos El Parranda, Cooperativa La Palma, Chocolates La Virgitana, Panadería Maranata, Panadería Joaquín Cruz, Cortijo Los Characholes (crisps and snacks), Granada Juice (100% pomegranate juice) and Alma Gin (pomegranate gin), Mermeladas Loma y Vega, Ron Montero, Encurtidos Beatriz, Raíces Laboratorio Gastronómico (with the quisquilla shrimp from Motril as a main ingredient in their products) and Quesería Motril, among others. Source, Spanish: https://www.almunecarcomunicacion.com/mancomunidad-y-torrenueva-costa-impulsan-la-iii-feria-la-despensa-de-la-costa-tropical-como-promocion-economica-y-gastronomica-de-la-comarca/

HEALTH

“Are We Cooked?”– New Greenpeace report warns of ready meals flooded with microplastics and toxic chemicals:
– Heating plastic-packaged ready meals and takeaways in the microwave or oven can release hundreds of thousands of micro- and nanoplastic particles along with a cocktail of toxic chemicals directly into food, according to a new Greenpeace International analysis of peer-reviewed science.
– The report, Are We Cooked? The Hidden Health Risks of Plastic-Packaged Ready Meals, reviewed 24 recent scientific studies and finds that convenience food items marketed as “safe-to heat” are in fact potentially exposing millions of people to invisible contaminants every day.
– Graham Forbes, Global Plastics Campaign Lead from Greenpeace USA, said: “People think they’re making a harmless choice when they buy and heat a meal packaged in plastic. In reality, we are being exposed to a cocktail of microplastics and hazardous chemicals that should never be in or near our food. Governments have let the petrochemicals and plastics industries turn our kitchens into testing labs. This report shows that corporate claims of “microwave-safe” are no more than wishful thinking. ”
– Key findings are:
1. Microwaving plastic containers can release hundreds of thousands of micro- and nanoplastics in minutes. One study found 326,000 to 534,000 particles leaching into food simulants after just five minutes of microwave heating, up to seven times more than oven heating.
2. Heating dramatically increases chemical contamination. Across multiple studies, microwave test samples of common plastics such as polypropylene and polystyrene leached chemical additives into food or food simulants, including plasticisers and antioxidants.
3. More than 4,200 hazardous chemicals are known to be used in or present in plastics, most are not regulated in food packaging. Some, like bisphenols, phthalates, PFAS “forever chemicals” and even toxic metals such as antimony, are linked to cancer, infertility, hormone disruption and metabolic disease.
4. Plastic chemicals are already in our bodies. At least 1,396 food contact plastic chemicals have been detected in human bodies, with growing evidence linking exposure to neurodevelopmental disorders, cardiovascular disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes.
5. Old, scratched or reused containers are worse. Worn plastic releases nearly double the number of microplastic particles compared to new packaging. Full article: https://www.greenpeace.org/international/press-release/81666/are-we-cooked-new-greenpeace-report-warns-of-ready-meals-flooded-with-microplastics-and-toxic-chemicals/

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Another Pointless SAS Medical Worker Recruitment– New Minister, Same Old BS! SAS REMAINS IN DENIAL– without offering higher wages & better working conditions employment calls are doomed to fail no matter how many hiring criteria they change- it’s not about making the job easier to get, it’s that nobody wants these jobs: {Translation, summary}
– The Andalusian Health Service (SAS) will soon launch job pool calls for 14 medical and healthcare specialties under a new system agreed with unions. Individuals previously accepted in the 2022/2023 pool or already registered do not need to reapply but must submit a self-assessment of their merits from 16th to 27th March. This system, which simplifies merit scoring and coordinates with Public Employment Offer (OEP) processes, ensures consistent and prompt updates to the pool. Merits do not expire and can be reused for career progression or future applications. The new model also values the effort of professionals in selection processes, recognising their grades even if they do not secure a position. Notably, Resident Internal Specialists (EIR) in medicine and nursing will automatically enter the job pool after residency. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/esandalucia/sevilla/noticia-sas-lanza-primeras-convocatorias-nuevo-modelo-bolsa-14-especialidades-ellas-enfermeria-pediatria-20260224092951.html

CULTURAL REVOLUTION

Young people in Spain retreat from feminism, half believe it helps political manipulation: {Translation, summary}
– According to the FAD Youth and Gender Barometer, only 38.4% of young people in Spain consider themselves feminists, a decline from 49.9% in 2021. Nearly half see feminism as politically manipulative. The study, based on over 3,000 interviews, reveals varying views on gender equality, with many young people supporting equal communication and rights in relationships. However, discrimination persists, with gender and physical appearance being primary causes. 48.9% of young people perceive significant gender inequality, especially among women.
– The report also shows a rise in the belief that men are disadvantaged by gender equality laws and false assault claims. Young people are more likely than adults to support controlling behaviours in relationships, such as checking phones and monitoring whereabouts. Additionally, stereotypes remain in sectors like science and IT, and household chores still disproportionately fall to women. Despite this, many young people remain committed to equality in their everyday lives, though conflicting viewpoints persist. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/sociedad/juventud-retrocede-feminismo-mitad-cree_0_2005997293.html

SPACE

NASA Delays Launch Of Artemis II Lunar Mission Due To Failure In Helium Flow Of SLS Rocket: Video Link

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TRAVEL

The deadline to travel with the Imserso is still open– The deadline for submitting applications for the 2025-2026 season will be extended from December 9, 2025 to April 30, 2026.: {Translation, summary}
– Imserso offers a range of travel options for retirees, with trips available to various destinations, including Málaga. These include coastal holidays, cultural circuits, nature tours, and visits to provincial capitals. The coastal trips cover areas such as Torremolinos, Marbella, and Fuengirola, while the cultural circuits focus on exploring heritage and history. Nature tourism offers opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, with trips to natural sites and parks. For those interested in cultural immersion, provincial capitals like Málaga city are included.
– The programme is designed to be flexible, with options ranging from 4 to 10 days, depending on the chosen package. Additionally, a new initiative provides a fixed price of 50 euros for individuals with low incomes who meet certain eligibility criteria. A total of 7,447 places have been reserved for this affordable option, allowing more retirees to access these travel opportunities. Imserso website:https://imserso.es/en/espacio-mayores/envejecimiento-activo/programa-turismo-imserso Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/abierto-plazo-viajar-imserso-malaga-precios-escapadas_0_2005996843.html

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More Train Trouble- Cockroaches on two commuter trains in Malaga and a breakdown on another lead to cancellations: {Translation, summary}
– On Tuesday, Málaga Cercanías faced major disruptions when cockroaches were found on two trains and a third experienced a fault. This caused numerous cancellations, leaving hundreds stranded. Initially, Renfe attributed the issue to “a specific fault with the material,” but later admitted that the problem was indeed the cockroach infestation, as reported by the CGT union. The affected trains were removed from service immediately and disinfected to ensure hygiene and safety.
– These incidents caused a series of cancellations on the C1 line between Málaga and Fuengirola, as well as delays on the C2 line to Álora. The CGT union claimed the disruptions were due to a shortage of trains, personnel, and commitment to proper service. Renfe apologised for the inconvenience and directed passengers to the next available trains. Throughout the morning, the company provided updates via its regular communication channels, attempting to manage the growing frustration among commuters. Source, Spanish: https://www.malagahoy.es/malaga/cucarachas-trenes-cercanias-malaga-averia-cancelaciones_0_2005996881.html

CANCEL CULTURE / #MeToo

Julio Iglesias sues & demands compensation from Spain’s communist Second Vice-president of the Government Yolanda Díaz for falsely accusing him of “sexual abuse” and “slavery” against his workers: {Translation, summary}
– The singer Julio Iglesias has sued the second vice-president of the Government and Minister of Labour and Social Economy, Yolanda Díaz, for accusing him of subjecting his workers to “sexual abuse” and of having them in a “situation of slavery”. If these statements are not withdrawn, a complaint will be filed against her.
– According to ‘Okdiario’ and it is clear from the letter, to which Europa Press has had access, in which his lawyer José Antonio Choclán urges Díaz to “publicly rectify” the message he published on her account on the social network Bluesky. It also asks the vice-president to compensate Iglesias “in the amount that is established based on the serious social damage caused” by his “insulting and slanderous behaviour”. Source, Spanish: https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-julio-iglesias-demanda-yolanda-diaz-acusarle-abusos-sexuales-esclavitud-contra-trabajadoras-20260224144132.html

DIGAMEXTRA EDITORIAL

Municipal Events Info Note + Spain Messes up the Digital Revolution Badly: {DigameXtra Editorial}
– In the past I was able to provide direct links to gov’t sponsored webpages with specific events info. Now, under the guise of “digital improvements” these links are often not available. You must now go to the main page, and then navigate thru a series of menus to get to the info sought– very inefficient and not at all in the spirit of “simplification”. It is a cutback for the sake of “digital efficiency” that actually complicates access & sharing. In addition, many official sites now block VPN users. This is a lazy way to add security to the gov’t webpages when proper, more effective security solutions are widely available, creating a roadblock to info that is by law supposed to be available to the public without condition. Evidently their laziness takes precedence over citizen digital security– you must turn off your VPN and become vulnerable to any bugs or flaws contained on their poorly constructed websites to view them. If they can’t do this basic security function properly, Lord help us as they try to digitize critical functions!
– Just as I have previously exposed AI manipulating users through behavioural modification to do tasks the way AI wants humans to do them, gov’t websites are now doing the same. Tools are supposed to work for you, not the other way around; having AI tell humans how to behave is a dangerous precedent to set. Rather than providing a system tailored to improve the user’s experience, they instead force users to learn new methods to access content and services, for the convenience of the webpage owner and his AI tools.
– This is in gross defiance of the spirit of improving the lives of the public via digital enhancements. Totally unacceptable! In their blind pursuit of digital everything, digital IDs with health info and money functions in particular, they inconvenience us, and use our taxes to pay for it. Just wait until the next blackout, when nothing digital works- I guaranty they will use that crisis as an excuse to introduce even more draconian measures nobody wants. Either we fight back, or we become surfs, your choice, but don’t claim you were not warned. -Ed.

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HUMOUR & DIVERSIONS SECTION

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Nerja 952 524 519
Torrox: 952 531 030
Frigiliana: 952 533 231

Phone numbers for emergencies
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Guardia Civil: 062
Ambulance: 061
Fire Station (Bomberos): 080
Emergency English Help Line: 902 102 112

Local Police
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Nerja: 952 521 545
Frigiliana: 952 533 126
Torre del Mar: 952 549 238

Check All Lottery Results Here: Updated daily.
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Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Malaga Province: New, updated link (Aug, 2023). Info in English with list of English speaking meetings. https://aacostadelsol.com/

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