Sidewalk Solutions

The current talks to resolve the Cyprus problem have thus far failed to gain the enthusiasm of neither the Cypriot nor Turkish Cypriot population. What is needed is for there first to be morale building for both sides, before any settlement can be embraced by the people of this island. Both communities need to feel that their futures would be better off together, with a joint solution, rather than apart, as it is today. Rather than face yet another failure of talks on the Cyprus problem – I would suggest that the current talks be put to one side and the following solution be implemented. This solution does not need either side to surrender anything. It needs only strong leadership, human resolve and money. We already have the skills in place. Continue Reading »

Living on a small island as we do – it is not easy to get “special breed” dogs. So just as I was about to pay €1,500 to a UK Breeder and arrange to visit the UK to choose our Beagle and fly him home here to Cyprus when – the email pinged and there was a message saying “are you still looking for a Beagle?” I went straight back – eh yes please! – his name is Milo, he is 11 months old, he doesn’t bark or bite, he gets a bit mad for 5 minutes every day, he was in a car accident, but has 3 good legs! We are leaving the island next month and are looking for a good home for him. We live in a flat in Nicosia and would like Milo to have good owners and a little more space. How much do you want for the 3 legged Beagle – I asked – oh let’s say €100? Being a Scot – I quickly figured out that a 3 legged Beagle at €100 might be a better deal than €1,400 for an extra good leg.

I was sat waiting in my car in Nicosia when around the corner came Milo – tugging like a tug boat – followed quickly by Lucy his owner and her boy friend trying to keep up. I said hello Milo as he sped past me to the nearest tree and smartly did his business. Lucy told me about his accident and operation. I think the leg might heal over time she said. Not wanting to loose a bargain I said yes – I was happy to pay €100 for a 3 1/2 legged Beagle.

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