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Editor’s Chat
Dear Readers, This month in Britchat, while we’re all as busy as the bees getting our homes, gardens and pools ship shape for summer, and still waiting impatiently for the weather to turn, to alleviate the hum drum we bring you some more wonderful things to check out in our historic capital, see Out & About chat (p 10 & 20), as well as another great, new place to try out for eats there (p. 8),
Contents May
2010
Editor’s Chat News Education Chat Eating Out Chat Las Rocas Museum Irish Jigs Valencia Wine Events Rugby Feature Energy Solutions El Dragón Eggs-actly Pet Chat Golf Competition Chat Moto GP Classified Adverts Brit Fun
We have special feature on page 6 about an institution with a difference for all those seeking or requiring educational facilities for career opportunities/changes here in Valencia.
3 4 6 8 10 13 14 15 16 18 20 22 24 26 27 29 30 31
The Editor r Chris Procto 909 Tel: 687 486
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They say “no news is good news”, but who ever said a bed of roses”. On pages 4 & 5 we bring you another bag of select briefs from the past month about what’s on in the Valencian community. It’s not necessarily all and gloom, and we hope one or two may even amuse
“life’s mixed going doom you.
In Health and Fitness chat (p22.), we’ve a feature for you that may contradict long established advice from the egg heads about your cholestoral intake, but then they do say debate is healthy too. Home for you – solar more of
& Garden chat (p.18.) has some interesting information to consider about Spain’s alternative energy source generated electricity, while rugby fans can discover how the game is developing here in Spain. (p.16.)
And, that’s all for this month….. just bring on the sunshine please! Yours faithfully, Chris Proctor Winners of “Find Don Quixote,” see page 27 (our very first Spanish winners). Please keep your entries coming in!
Queridos lectores, Este mes en Britchat, hemos estado atareados como abejitas preparando nuestras casas jardines y piscinas para el verano, esperando que el tiempo mejore de una vez. Para aliviar esta espera os traemos más cosas fascinantes que hacer y visitar en nuestra maravillosa capital, mirad la sección Out & About chat (pp 10 & 20) así como otro nuevo restaurante para que lo probeis (p.8.) Dicen que “no tener noticias son buenas noticias”, pero quien os ha dicho que “la vida es un lecho de rosas”. En las páginas 4 y 5 os traemos noticias variadas del mes pasado sobre lo que ha estado ocurriendo en la Comunidad Valenciana. No todo es necesariamente malo, asi que esperamos que por lo menos una o dos de estas noticias os entretengan. En Health and Fitness chat (p.22.), incluimos un artículo para vosotros que contradice estudios previos sobre el consumo de colesterol, Bueno dicen que el debate también es sano. Home & Garden chat (p.18.) contiene información interesante sobre la energía solar y para los fans del rugby, tenemos información sobre como la afición a este deporte se está extendiendo en España. (p.16.) Eso es todo por este mes...
por favor que venga el sol!!
Un saludo Chris Proctor Ganadores de “Encuentra a Don Quixote,” mirad la pagina 27. ¡Por favor, Seguid participando!
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NEWS VALENCIA’S H I G H W A Y CONFUSION
THE CHEAPEST It was revealed yesterday that the Valencianbased supermarket chain Mercadona is the cheapest in Spain. Also in the cheapest list were the Consum Supermarket chain and Consum Basic, whilst on the other end of the scale, the Supermarkets Hipercor and Supercor, both of which belong to the El Corte Ingles Group, were judged to be the most expensive.
Valencian drivers have told an enquiry panel that they are unaware of the significance of at least half of the road signs in use in the autonomy. The study also found that many drivers recognised 80% of the road signals, but only 51% were able to correctly interpret their meaning. Luis Montoro, a professor of road security at Valencia University, whose department undertook the study, stated that he considered the results somewhat alarming: “If people don’t know what the signs mean, how on earth can they be fined for failing to carry out what these signs demanded of them?”
VALENCIA IGNORED ONCE AGAIN
SPAIN’S DEBTORS The Finance Ministry has revealed that Madrid is the most indebted capital in the country with over six billion Euros, whilst coming in second is Valencia, with debts of more than 834 million Euros, followed closely by Barcelona at 791 million Euros. As for the other Provincial capitals in the Community, Alicante has debts of almost 153 million Euros and Castellón has red ink totaling just over 103 million Euros, whilst the capital with the least debts is Bilbao, at almost four million Euros.
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Yet again, the Socialist Government has totally ignored the fiestas, language and traditions of the valencian Community in one of its official events as President of the European Union. On May 5 & 6 in Brussels, the Socialist Government hosted an event based on Spain, featuring round table discussions on “Spain as a whole”, Galicia, Catalunya and the Basque Country, as if the Valencian Community did not exist. Official Valencian G o v e r n m e n t spokesperson Paula Sanchez de Leon stated that the Socialists “Have the nerve to call this event “The Cultures of Spain” and their relationship with Europe, and totally ignore the Valencian language and culture that has been an essential part of the development of this country.” News
NEWS A V A I L A B L E
HOUSING
VALENCIA’S UNEMPLOYMENT DEMO
On May 1st, thousands of people took to the streets of Valencia in demonstrations called by the trades unions under the banner “For Employment with Rights and Guarantees”. The march was focusing on the fact that there are about six hundred thousand people out of work in the Valencian Community, and participating in the demonstrations were a large number of left wing politicians, including Valencian Socialist leader Jorge Alarte. As the demonstration started, Paco Molina, the General Secretary of Comisiones Obreras in the Valencian Community, stated that the government of Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero “Has lost its way and is utterly overwhelmed by what is happening”, and that the Valencian Government has not yet unveiled its solution to the current crisis. Conrado Hernandez the General Secretary of the UGT Union in the Valencian Community added that the employment plans of the Valencian Government so far had not worked.
Housing Minister Beatriz Corredor has revealed that in Spain overall there are 688,044 new homes built on speculation with no owners in sight - an increase of 12% over last year. 61% of these are near the sea. The majority of these homes are in Andalucia (110,147), the Valencian Community (110,798) and Catalunia (107,240), whilst in the Valencian Community, the lead province is Alicante where almost 49,343 new homes lie awaiting a prospective owner. Coming second is Valencia Province(36,089) and in third place is Castellon(34,366). As for the other provinces along the Mediterranean, the availability reads: Gerona -15,402: Barcelona - 62,804; Tarragona - 17,366; Murcia - 29,684; Almeria - 22,517; Granada - 11,491; Malaga - 22,666; Cadiz 17,005 and Huelva - 7,036.
ROCKING IN VALENCIA
The July Fair this summer in Valencia has revealed that the bill this year will feature performances by Revolver, Juan Manuel Serrat, The Cult, David Bisbal, Pereza, La Mala Rodriguez and Estrella Morente. However, top of the bill is Deep Purple, who are set to perform on 18th July. Tickets for the entire festival are now on sale, priced between fifteen and forty Euros.
SPANISH POST MAY GET SLOWER
Three hundred postal workers held a protest meeting in Murcia. They also downed tools for 6 hours in various shifts, to show their discontent at the idea of freeing up the public postal service. Another strike took place on Thursday 29th April, this time for 24 hours, in Murcia, Valencia, Castellón, Alicante, Valencia and Barcelona. A future strike has been programmed for June 10th. The basic salary of a postal worker is 600 euros per month, which goes up the longer they have worked for the postal service, reaching an average of 1,000 euros net. 65,000 people at present work for the postal service in Spain. News
& IRON MAIDEN IN VALENCIA .....
Rockers Iron Maiden are now set to perform on August 21 next in the Marina Sur Auditorium in Valencia Port, with tickets going on sale later this morning through ticketmaster or by phoning 902 150 025. Valencia will be the second stop on their Final Frontier World Tour after the Italian town of Udine. In addition a special flight will leave Gatwick piloted by Bruce Dickenson and carry some English fans down to Valencia to see the show.
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A second ‘crack at the whip’ - after all it is never too late
New educational opportunities for adults Frank Reilly
Current rates of unemployment in Spain now exceed 4,000,000, over 20% of the total workforce and the highest rate in the European Union. There is no sign of a quick reversal of this trend. Consequently there has never been a more important time to consider the skills, qualifications and experience you need to offer when looking for a job in this very competitive jobs market. Options have been limited here in Valencia for young adults who left school without successfully gaining the necessary A level grades to go on to further education, or for adults seeking to return to higher education. This is even more the case amongst the expatriate community, whose command of Spanish may be limited, making courses in the Spanish system less accessible. It is therefore very welcome news that one of Spain’s longest established and most successful British schools is extending its work as a Community College to include full British Higher National Diplomas and offering A levels through a combination of evening and Saturday morning classes. Cambridge House Community College, with over a thousand students and an expert team of teachers, has had twenty-five years of experience in successfully preparing their students to succeed in either the university or the career of their choice. Their learners graduate feeling confident and competitive and fully prepared for a global working environment. At the heart of the College’s success is their philosophy of creating a family community and a homely environment where learning thrives. The Community College now aims to extend their family learning environment beyond the reach of school-aged students, and open their doors to adults as well. The BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) is a twoyear course resulting in the award of a Higher Diploma from the U.K.s Edexcel examination board. HNDs offer an alternative route for anyone wanting to continue with or return to their higher education studies. The courses are delivered through a combination of guided learning and learner-centred activities such as practical work placements, project-based course work and small group tutorials. Continuous assessment is made through this range of activities instead of end-of-course examinations. With emphasis on delivering practical experience and applicable skills, HNDs are welcomed by employers and widely recognized by professional bodies. The HND also offers students the opportunity to continue on for a final year at a British university to complete a full degree course. This means students can now study for the first BRITCHAT . 6
Education Chat
two years of a British degree course, here in Spain while working full time. Cambridge House is currently taking registrations for HND courses in Business, Computing, Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Sports and Leisure Management. Each course has been selected by the College to reflect areas where future employment opportunities are most likely to emerge as Spain and other economies climb out of recession. An important part of the aim of Community College is to provide opportunities to adults who have been out of formal studies for some time and are now want a possible change in direction or to enhance their curriculum before returning to full or part-time employment. For adults, no formal qualifications are necessary for entry onto the HND programme; work experience being the important factor for entry and future success. Alongside HNDs for those over 17, any adult can also study A Levels, including Spanish, French or Italian, Business, Food Technology, Sports Science or Information and Communication Technology, which will allow learners to improve their skills and qualifications, while continuing with their normal daytime routines. Running alongside their HND and A level programmes, the College will also be offering a diverse range of short and intensive courses in areas such as Food and Gastronomy, an Introduction to the World of Wine, Spanish for Non-native Speakers, and an Introduction to Computing and Programming, with plans for many more in the future.
Education Chat
Tracy Ibberson, the founder and Head Teacher of Cambridge House Community College, firmly subscribes to the College’s unofficial motto - ‘to do one’s best’. Visitors to the College also quickly realise that another motto also applies – ‘because we are different’this College is very unlike any other you will have ever experienced. You can feel the success everywhere and of every learner and teacher involved in this. In the current environment any new opportunities to improve and sharpen our skills, or give us a second ‘crack at the whip’ must be very welcome - after all it is never too late!
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EL PEDERNIZ - QUALITY FOOD IN ELEGANT SURROUNDINGS EL PEDERNIZ COCINA DE CALIDAD EN UN AMBIENTE ELEGANTE By Cristina Garay
El Pederniz is a cosy and atmospheric Spanish restaurant located not far from the city centre in Valencia, just behind that architectural gem which is la Finca Roja. The restaurant, founded in 1999, has been offering now for eleven years, home made food, elaborated wisely with fresh ingredients and an extensive wine list that allows the customers to make the perfect choice to go with their meal. On the A La Carte menu we find an ample choice of cold and hot starters, mainly Spanish - Lacon, Bellota Serrano ham, lentils with chorizo sausage, zamburiñas a La Gallega (clams Galician style) Morteruelo, (a typical dish from Cuenca) homemade Croquettes, etc... But there are also international delicacies such Fresh Foie with Pedro Ximenez sweet wine, Carpaccio or Camembert with blueberry sauce. In El Pederniz we also can order a salad as a starter, and they have a long list of them. Salad El Pederniz with lettuce hearts and anchovies and the Salad with partridge stand out from the rest. If you opt for the traditional salad, there is also a well dressed Valencian Salad. For main dishes we can chose from fish or meat, all cooked to perfection. If you are a steak lover, in El Pederniz they do an enormous fillet steak (400 gr.), and this is not the meat you will find in supermarkets, this is 100% Galician Ox!
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If you prefer something lighter, you should try the quail or the partridge, both are fantastic. The fish is excellent too, specially the red tuna and the sword fish fillet. To round off your meal there is a selection of home made desserts and 72 types of scotch whisky, or if you prefer a fizzy end to your meal, 20 different kinds of gin to go with your tonic. The philosophy of this restaurant is to make people feel at home, while having a good time eating great quality food. El pederniz have a Menu del dia for lunch, and also special menus for groups. There is a semi-private hall for 22 people that you can hire for celebrations.
Restaurant El Pederniz Pasaje Ventura Feliu 20 (Behind Finca Roja) (Detrás de la Finca Roja) Reservas: 96 332 41 06 El Pederniz es un acogedor restaurante de comida española situado cerca del centro de Valencia, justo detrás de esa joya arquitectónica que es la Finca Roja. Este restaurante, fundado en 1999, lleva ofreciendo desde hace once años, cocina casera elaborada
Eating Out Chat
See the El Pedeniz Banner on the Front Page Ver el anuncio de El Pederniz en la portada
sabiamente con ingredientes frescos y una extensa carta de vinos que permite al cliente elegir el más adecuado para acompañar su plato. En la carta encontraremos una amplia oferta de entrantes fríos y calientes, principalmente de cocina Española: lacón, jamón de bellota, lentejas con chorizo, zamburiñas a la gallega, morteruelo de Cuenca, croquetas caseras, etc...Pero también delicias internacionales como el foie fresco con Pedro Ximenez, carpaccio o camembert con salsa de arándanos. En el Pederniz también podemos optar por una ensalada como entrante, ya que tiene una larga lista de ellas. Destacan la ensalada El Pederniz de cogollos con anchoas y la ensalada con perdiz. Si te gusta optar por lo tradicional puedes elegir una ensalada Valenciana bien aliñada. Para el plato principal podemos elegir carne o pescado ambos cocinados a la perfeccción según tus requerimientos. Si eres un amante de la buena carne, en El Pederniz sirven unos solomillos gigantescos (400g) y te aseguro que ésta no es la carne que se encuentra en los supermercados. Esta es buey gallego al 100%. Si prefieres algo más ligero, tienes que probar la perdiz o la codorniz, ambas deliciosas. Los pescados son muy buenos también, especialmente el atún rojo o el filete de pez espada. Para acabar tu comida hay una selección de postres caseros y 72 tipos de whisky escocés o si lo prefieres así, 20 marcas de ginebra para acompañar tu tónica. La filosofía de este restaurante es hacer que el cliente se sienta como en casa, mientras pasa un rato agradable comiendo cocina de calidad. El Pederniz ofrece un menú del dia a mediodia y también menús especiales para grupos. Existe un comedor semi-privado para 22 personas que puedes reservar para tus celebraciones.
Eating Out Chat
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LAS ROCAS MUSEUM AND THE “CORPUS CHRISTI” IN VALENCIA EL MUSEO DE LAS ROCAS Y EL CORPUS CHRISTI EN VALENCIA
By Cristina Garay
If you find yourself out and about Valencia this spring, you can´t afford to miss this unusual museum in the outskirts of Barrio del Carmen, next door to the Serranos Towers. Las Rocas Museum or “Museo Casa de las Rocas”, as it is know in Spanish, is located in C/ Las rocas 3, in the corner with C/ Roteros.
You definitely can’t miss it. A tall and imposing old building, dating from the XV century, was erected by the King Pedro El Ceremonioso in order to serve as a shelter for the carriages and costumes used during the Corpus Christi festivities. Also, In this house lived in the old times El “Capella de Les Roques”, a priest in charge to guard the building and its contents Inside this medieval construction you will find “Las Rocas”, baroque style wagons with religious themes and also a mix and match of costumes, figures and strange sculptures, all related to the bible. Also, La Casa de las Rocas houses the famous “Gigantes y Cabezudos”,
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popular icons of the Valencia Corpus Procession. Two days before the Corpus Christi festivity, Las Rocas, twelve in total, are pulled by hand at 9.00 h and placed in the gardens next to the Serranos Towers. This operation is quite complicated, taking into account the volume of the carriages and the narrowness of the street. At about 20.00 h, Las Rocas are moved along the Serranos and Caballeros Streets making its way to Plaza de La Virgen, where they will remain for people to see them until the big day of Corpus. Corpus Christi is a religious festival that dates back to 1355 and is centered on a solemn procession in which The Communion Sacrament, represented in the Holy Grail, is accompanied by the civil and religious authorities of the city. The Corpus Christi procession itself is a kind of a living Bible, involving many of the characters from both the Old and the New Testaments. Also popular characters as La Moma, La Cuca Fera (a giant tortoise) and the Gigantes (the giants) and Cabezudos (carnival figures with enormous heads) dance along the procession. This year the parade is scheduled for Sunday the 6th of June at 20.00h and Las Rocas will have been in Plaza de la Virgen, next to the cathedral since the 4th of June. The route is the usual in the last decades, nearly the same as that of the first Corpus Christi procession in the City of Valencia, which took place in 1355: From Puerta de los Apóstoles in the Cathedral to Plaza de la Virgen, C/Caballeros, Tros Alt, C/ Bolsería, Mercado Central, Avda María Cristina, C/ San Vicente, Plaza de la Reina, C/ Mar, C/ Avellanas, Plaza del Palau, and back to the Cathedral. Believe me, this is a very special event you should not miss!! Museum Casa de Las Rocas opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10.00 to 14.00 and 16.30 to 20.30 Sunday and Bank holidays:10.00 to 15.00
Out & About Chat
LAS ROCAS MUSEUM
EL MUSEO DE LAS ROJAS By Cristina Garay
Si esta primavera os encontrais un día dando una vuelta por Valencia, no os podéis permitir perderos este original museo en las afueras del Barrio del Carmen, junto a las Torres de Serranos. El Museo de Las Rocas o Casa de Las Rocas como también se le conoce, está situado en la C/ Las Rocas nº 3, en la esquina con la calle Roteros. Lo encontraréis con facilidad, porque es un edificio alto e impresionante que data del S. XV. Fue construido por el Rey Pedro El Ceremonioso para guarecer los carruajes, ropas y demás objetos que se utilizan en la procesión del Corpus Christi. Antiguamente vivía en esta casa “El Capellá de Les Roques”, un religioso que se encargaba de custodiar el edificio y sus contenidos. Dentro de esta construcción medieval encontraréis “Las Rocas”, que son pasos de procesión de estilo barroco decorados con temas religiosos, así como todo tipo de figuras y esculturas extrañas relacionadas con la biblia . La Casa de Las Rocas alberga también a los famosos “Gigantes y Cabezudos” , figuras populares del Corpus Valenciano. (Continua en pagona 12)
Out & About Chat
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LAS ROCAS MUSEUM AND THE “CORPUS CHRISTI” IN VALENCIA EL MUSEO DE LAS ROCAS Y EL CORPUS CHRISTI EN VALENCIA
By Cristina Garay
Dos días antes de la festividad del Corpus Christi, Las Rocas, doce en total, son sacadas a mano a las 9.00 h y depositadas en las Alameditas de Serranos, junto a las torres. Esta es una operación complicada, si tenemos en cuenta el volumen de estos monumentos y la estrechez de la calle. Alrededor de las 20.00 h. Las Rocas son trasladadas por las calles de Serranos y Caballeros hasta la plaza de la Virgen, donde permanecerán expuestas para ser admiradas por el público hasta el día grande del Corpus. El Corpus Christi es una festividad religiosa que data,
La ruta de la procesión del Corpus, será casi la misma que cuando tuvo lugar por primera vez en Valencia en el año 1355 : Desde la Puerta de los Apóstoles en la catedral a la Plaza de la Virgen, C/ Caballeros, Tros Alt, C/ Bolsería, Mercado Central, Avda María Cristina, C/ San Vicente, Plaza de la Reina, C/ Mar, C/ Avellanas, Plaza del Palau, y de vuelta a la Catedral. Creedme, esta procesión es algo muy especial que no deberíais perderos. Horario Museo Casa de Las Rocas : Martes-Sábado: 10.00 a 14.00 y 16.30 a 20.30 Domingos y festivos :10.00 a 15.00
en Valencia, del año 1355 y su evento más importante es la procesión solemne, en la que el Santo sacramento es acompañado por las autoridades religiosas y civiles de la ciudad. La Procesión del Corpus es en sí una especie de biblia viviente, con personajes del antiguo y nuevo testamento. También participan en ella figuras populares como La Moma, La Cuca Fera (una tortuga gigante) o los citados Gigantes y Cabezudos que bailan acompañando a la procesión. Este año la procesión está programada para el Domingo 6 de Junio a las 20.00 h y Las Rocas estarán expuestas en la plaza de la Virgen, junto a la catedral desde el 4 de Junio. BRITCHAT . 12
Out & About Chat
A GREAT TIME SINGING ALONG WITH 30 SILVER COINS UNA NOCHE INCREIBLE CANTANDO CON 30 SILVER COINS By Cristina Garay
(Extract from the song/Fragmento de la canción “Galway girl”) Well, I took a stroll on the old long walk Of a day -I-ay-I-ay I met a little girl and we stopped to talk Of a fine soft day -I-ay-I-ay And I ask you, friend, what’s a fella to do ‘Cause her hair was black and her eyes were blue And I knew right then I’d be takin’ a whirl ‘Round the Salthill Prom with a Galway girl... Well, readers I have my portion of the “I-ayI-ay “and I must say that I enjoyed it a lot, but next day I woke up with a very sore throat and a very sore head as well, but that was just the Guinness... ( and they say it is Good For You). The truth is that it is amazing how this entirely Spanish group, 30 silver Coins can recreate the Irish spirit and ambiance so well that one thinks she is in Kilkenny or even Galway, having had a few pints with “The Girl” and her cousins John and Mary O´Reilly. It wasn´t Kilkenny or Galway, the gig took place in Finnegan’s of Dublin in Valencia last month the 23th of April, on a Friday night and Cristina Cuenca, the lead singer took us to the green glens of Antrim, and even we didn´t have cockles and mussels we had a go with the Irish dancing and had the time of our lifes, something different from your average night out in Valencia town. The group sang popular Irish themes such as: I´m Shipping up to Boston, Out in the Ocean, Dance Calahans Polka and my favorite: The Galway girl. If you missed their gig you have now the opportunity to watch them playing again in Finnegan’s of Dublin in Valencia the next 21st of May.
Adverts
Bueno, lectores, tuve mi parte de “I-ay-I-ay “ y debo confesar que disfruté mucho, pero al día siguiente me levanté con una importante afonía y para que contaros, mi cabeza me dolía un montón...Pero eso se debía seguramente a la Guinness y eso que dicen que es buena para ti... (Guinness is good for you). La verdad es que resulta increíble como este grupo, 30 silver Coins, formado integramente por Españoles, consigue recrear el espíritu Irlandés tan bien que una piensa que está en en Kilkenny o incluso en Galway tomándose unas pintas con “The Girl” y sus primos John and Mary O´Reilly. No fue en Kilkenny o Galway, la actuación tuvo lugar en el pub Finnegan’s of Dublín en Valencia el 23 del pasado mes de Abril, un Viernes por la noche y Cristina Cuenca, la vocalista del grupo nos llevó hasta las cañadas verdes de Antrim y aunque no tomamos berberechos ni mejillones al estilo “Molly Malone”, nos atrevimos con la danza Irlandesa y nos lo pasamos de miedo. Por lo menos hicimos algo diferente de la típica noche de los Viernes en Valencia. El grupo se centró en temas populares Irlandeses como: I´m Shipping up to Boston, Out in the ocean, Dance Callahans Polka y mi preferida: The Galway girl. Si os perdisteis este concierto aun teneis la oportunidad de verlos actuar de nuevo en Finnegan’s of Dublín en Valencia el próximo 21 de Mayo. BRITCHAT . 13
VALENCIA WINE COUNTRY EXPANDS ITS SERVICES, AND WITH LOWER PRICES There have been some changes at Valencia Wine Country. They have expanded the services they provide. These new services can be seen on the website ...
www.valenciawinecountry.com
Please take a moment to visit the website. To examine Valencia Wine Country new services, click on the “Special Tours” bottle. Of course, they are not limited to only these services. Russell, the owner, will be happy to accommodate any requirement you might have. As he is always flexible! He just wants to let you know that they have lowered the price of the Valencia Wine Country Wine Tasting Tour.
The old price was 135.00€ per person The new price is 95.00€ per person This new price includes: Transportation Wine Tasting (3 Wineries) Bilingual Driver (Spanish/English) Insurance while inside the vehicle Wine tasting notebook 1/2 litre bottle of young red wine Now the tours are much more economical and the services more ample. Valencia Wine Country also organize special events tours such Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, Honeymoon Wine Tours, Custom Wine Tours and Baptism and Communion parties. As always, Russell is available to answer your questions, simply send him an e-mail at info@valenciawinecountry. com with any questions or comments you may have and he will reply immediately.
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OUT & ABOUT CHAT
EVENTS
You get a FREE EVENTS listing with BRITCHAT, space permitting, but in Guide2Valencia we will give you unlimited text and a photo. For more information email: enquiry@Guide2Valencia.com.
OLOCAU RASTRO AND ART EXHIBITION (THE ART EXHIBITION WILL ONLY BE AT THE MAY RASTRO (30th May 10am - 2pm) Olocou rastro last Sunday of each month Supporting worthwhile charities. Stalls to include Carolyns cards, Homemade pickles and Jams, English food, Gold bought and sold, Book stalls and general bric a brac. We also have a cafe selling cakes and english bacon and sausage sandwiches and also full breakfasts Contact
details remain the same Carolyn 962555819 or 6664809608
Directions: Follow signs to OLOCAU from LLIRIA, Turn right towards BETERA at the main CV333 Roundabout, (CV333 Near Valencia). URB. LA LLOMA is on the next roundabout, RASTRO will be signposted from there.
New Activity called WAY TAN YONG
No matter what your age or physical condition, this new activity will improve your health, energy and well-being. It’s called WAY TAN YONG and in essence it is working with energy through gentle easy movements. This new group intends to start in the Chiva/Godelleta area this Autumn, so if you are interested please contact Mila on
627-884-298. Montroy Table Top Sale
My husband and I along with the people of the town hall in Montroy organize a car boot sale every month. It is always held at Calle La Pau, Montroy Contact Cindy at 960 802 513 or 695 100 540 2010 Dates left: June 6, July 4, Aug 1, Sep 5, Oct 3, Nov 7, Dec 5 Always from 10 - 2.
Cindy 960 802 513 or 695 100 540
Balcon de Montroy Rastro
Just to let you know the Balcon rastro has finished for a few months. We will try again maybe in September
Info: 96-255-5819 (Carolyn) PER ELLS would like to thank Cheers Bar Montserrat for their €18.50 donation raised in their Easter Egg raffle.
Linguistic Exchange
Would you like to improve your Spanish by practicing with a local person in an informal setting? Would you like to help them to improve their English? If your answer is yes, welcome to Central Point Language Exchange. We meet every Wednesday 19 to 20.30 hs in Torrent (Bar La Red Rose – CC. Las Americas). Cost 10€ a month or 3€ a session - Interested? Please contact Marcela Mattenet
mm@centralpoint.es.
IWC- International Womens Club
Valencia Monthly Coffee meetings every 1st Thursday of the month, from 10 till 12 hs. Anybody Welcome!!! - Come and join us at the Top restaurant – 4th Floor - HIPERCOR - C.Comercial Ademuz, Av. Pio XII, 51 ,Valencia, End off Ademuz - Lliria motorway. Near Nuevo Centro and La Fe Hospital -Near Tube station Campanar FREE Underground car park. If you are interested in joining please, log on our site www.iwc-valencia.ning.com
or mail mm@iwc-valencia.com.
Sunday Pub Quiz with Neil and Craig
Questions in English - with a local flavour Brainboxes or boobies of all nationalities welcome. 7 pm Sundays - At Sally O’Brien Pub. Avenida Aragon, Valencia (beside petrol station)
RASTRO Y MERCADO
Sunday, 16th May - Domingo Mayo 16 10.30-13.30 horas - Stands are Free MAS PAVIA RESTAURANTE MASIA PAVIA URBA, Nr Monserrat
Call Amanda to book your stand 625 819 734 or ... amandainvalencia@yahoo.com
Tables are not supplied. Stall holders arrive from 9.30am Future car boots 3rd Sunday of the month
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BRITCHAT . 15
EL CAU REGRESA A LA DIVISION DE HONOR CAU RETURNS TO THE DIVISION OF HONOUR By Toni Gimeno
Que difícil es expresar en unas pocas palabras tantas emociones vividas esta mañana en Landare, el campo de rugby del Hernani. Se enfrentaban dos clubes con vidas paralelas, peleando por un mismo objetivo, llevar a la máxima categoría del rugby español a sus primeras escuadras y con ellas a la representación de una forma de ver el rugby que hace de la formación y de la promoción su lema fundamental. El partido no fue de gran nivel. Era imposible. Tantos jóvenes valores del rugby español juntos en una misma cancha peleando por un gran objetivo, impedían claridad de ideas en la toma de decisiones, pero por otra parte aportaba una dosis inmensa de corazón. La primera parte transcurría con igualdad, y el 3-3 era fiel reflejo de ella, pero en el último instante el Hernani rompe la defensa valenciana y consigue un ensayo transformado para marcharse al descanso con un esperanzador 10-3 y medio píe en DH A. Pero los chicos del CAU han aprendido desde pequeños que pueden jugar bien o mal, pero luchan hasta el final, y un golpe de castigo de Sorribes les acercaba 10-6 y lo que es más importante, les metía de nuevo en la categoría superior. Muchos errores en ambos clubes y gran dosis de pasión llevaron a un final de infarto. A cinco minutos del final Hernani conseguía por medio de un golpe de castigo adelantarse en el marcador, 13-6, y acercarse al objetivo final. Los vascos se volcaban en el 22 valenciano. Se llega con esta resultado al último minuto del encuentro y los valencianos sacando una touche a cinco metros de su zona de marca. Ataque desde la zona de ensayo que acaba en melé para los vascos a la derecha del terreno, nada mas pasar de medio campo. El árbitro decreta última jugada. El CAU roba la melé y Hernani la hunde. Golpe de castigo y el colegiado advierte que es la última del partido. Edu Sorribes, que había fallado las dos transformaciones anteriores, pide palos y…transforma entre la algarabía del CAU y la decepción de Hernani. Los aficionados valencianos saltaban de alegría, porque sus jugadores ya no podían ni moverse. Los jóvenes entrenadores, Nico Barzano y Chumi Mañas solo tenían palabras de agradecimiento y felicitación para sus jugadores “las cosas se han puesto muy difíciles pero nunca hemos dejado de creer. Este grupo es magnifico, y juegue al nivel que juegue ha demostrado que tiene un BRITCHAT . 16
corazón enorme” El director técnico del CAU Toni Gimeno expresaba la alegría de todo el club “cuando llegamos hasta esta última fase ya habíamos cubierto los objetivos de la temporada de sobra. En el club estábamos tremendamente satisfechos del comportamiento del primer equipo. Esto ha sido la guinda a una temporada excelente. Me alegro mucho por los jugadores y por los técnicos, Chumi y Nico, que han demostrado que la juventud no es un obstáculo para dirigir a un club. Por ellos y por los jugadores todos los que formamos parte del CAU somos muy felices. Ahora disfrutaremos durante un tiempo de esto, y luego nos sentaremos a planificar el futuro con calma.” El presidente Fouad Osseiran estaba feliz tras recibir la felicitación e las autoridades “ Sabemos que las autoridades locales y autonómicas son muy felices por este ascenso, la alcaldesa Rita Barbera y el concejal Cristóbal Grau ya me han felicitado. Ahora hay que festejar junto a los chicos que han hecho un esfuerzo enorme y buscar las mejores condiciones para competir el año próximo. El dinero será importante, pero unas instalaciones propias para que el club entrene y juegue con dignidad son fundamentales. El club festejará en El Pederniz” (Ve Pagina 8) How difficult it is to express in so few words so many emotions experienced in Landare, the rugby field of the Hernani. Two teams with parallel lives fighting for the same goal, taking it to the top level of Spanish rugby and with it the representation of a way to see the rugby that makes the training and development the essential motto. The game was not of high quality. It was impossible. So many young talents of Spanish rugby together in the same court fighting for a great goal, prevented clarity of ideas in decision making, but provided a huge dose of stout hearted passion for the game. The first half passed with equality, and the 3-3 was a true reflection of this, but at the last minute, the Hernani broke the defense of CAU Valencia and got a test turned to leave the rest with an encouraging 10-3 and half way in DH A. But the boys have learned from CAU since childhood, that they can play well or badly, but always fighting to the end. A punishing blow from Sorribes put the score 10-6 and what is most important, they got back in the top category. Many errors in both clubs and a large dose of
OUT & ABOUT CHAT
RUGBY VALENCIA HERNANI-CAU: 13-9 (13-18) By Toni Gimeno
passion led to a exciting finale. At the last five minutes Hernani getting through a penalty stroke ahead on the scoreboard, 13-6, and approaching the ultimate goal. The Basques were turning in 22 Valencia. Getting this result at the last minute of the match and taking a touche Valencia five meters in their area. Attack from the test area that ends in melee for the Basques to the right of the field, just past midfield. The referee decreed last play. CAU stole the melee and Hernani sank it. The referee says it’s the end of the match. Edu Sorribes, who had missed the two previous transformations, calls sticks and this time don´t miss it. It is happiness for the CAU and disappointment for the Hernani. Valencia fans jumped with joy, because their players did their best and now exhausted, they couldn’t move. Young coaches Nico and Chumi Barzana Mañas only had words of thanks and congratulations for their players. “Things have been very difficult, but we’ve never stopped believing. This team is great and play at the level that has been shown has been with a big heart”. CAU technical director Toni Gimeno expressed the joy of the whole club...”when we reached this final stage we’d already met the objectives of the season. In the club we were extremely pleased with the performance of the first team. This has been the icing of the cake on an excellent season. I’m happy for the players and technicians, Chumi and Nico have shown that to be young is not an obstacle to lead a club. For them and for all players who are part of CAU, we are very happy. Now we will enjoy this for a while and then we’ll sit down to plan the future with calm”. President Fouad Osseiran was elated after receiving the congratulations from the authorities, “We know that local and regional authorities are very excited about this promotion, the Mayoress of Valencia, Rita Barbera and Councilman Christopher Grau had both congratulated me. Now we have to celebrate with the guys who have made a huge effort and seek the best position to compete next year. Money is important, but to have our own facilities for the club to train and play with dignity are fundamental. The Club will celebrate Victory in restaurant El Pederniz. (See feature on Page 8) OUT & ABOUT CHAT
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RusticaRed … Practical Energy Solutions ¿Que significa soluciones energéticas prácticas? By Cristina Garay
Practical energy solutions, what does that mean? Simply, setting up and operating an alternative energy (primarily solar) supplied home in order for us to understand the practicalities (not the theory, we know that!) of installing and living with solar supplied energy.
One final thought. Our aim, if you choose to use our services, is that you should not care if your life in Spain is powered by mains electric or solar.
Over the past two years we have been using, testing, upgrading and sometimes downgrading a home to identify the downside and more importantly the upside of living with alternative energy. With this experience we are now able to provide solutions that meet your needs specifically without thinking about how many lights are on and for how long. We think we can all agree that the mains electrical distribution network in Spain is at the very least haphazard. Recent EU statistics show that Spain imports 83% of it’s energy requirements while rates are a Government subsidised €0.143 per Kwh for domestic electricity. It is little wonder that connections to the grid are rare if not impossible outside of major developments. One thing is certain though and that is mains electricity prices will rise in the future while solar system produced electricity prices have dropped further reducing the gap between mains and solar electricity costs. Most people in Spain have solar because they need it not because they want it, so if you have got it, need to get it, or just want it, let us give you a fresh perspective on how to achieve a lifestyle you want rather than one driven by the energy system you install. For current solar users we are happy to conduct a free assessment of your current arrangement, demand allowing.
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Simplemente la puesta en marcha y la instalación de energías alternativas (principalmente solares) entregadas a domicilio para que así podamos entender la práctica (no la teoría, esa la sabemos ya) de instalar y vivir con energía solar. Durante los pasados dos años nosotros hemos utilizado, probado y mejorado y en ocasiones empeorado un hogar para identificar las desventajas y más importantemente las ventajas de vivir con energía alternativa. Con esta experiencia somos capaces ahora de proporcionar soluciones para tus necesidades específicas, sin que tengas que pensar acerca de cuantas luces están encendidas ni por cuanto tiempo. Pensamos que todos coincidimos en opinar que la red de distribución eléctrica en España es cuanto menos azarosa. Recientes estadísticas de la Unión Europea muestran que España importa el 83% de sus necesidades energéticas, mientras el estado subvenciona 0.143 € por kilowatio destinado a la electricidad doméstica. No resulta extraño que conexiones a la red son raras, si no imposibles fuera de los principales núcleos urbanos. Una
SOLAR CHAT
cosa es cierta, los precios de la electricidad subirán en un futuro, mientras los precios de los sistemas solares para producir electricidad, han bajado mucho reduciendo la brecha entre la electricidad convencional y la solar. La mayoria de gente en España tiene energía solar por que la necesitan, no porque la quieren, así que si tu la tienes, necesitas tenerla o la quieres, permítenos darte una nueva perspectiva en cómo obtener el estilo de vida que quieres no el proporcionado por el sistema de energía que instales. Para los que ya sois usuarios de la energia solar os haremos encantados un estudio en vuestra instalación ya existente, siempre que la demanda nos lo permita.
* Insuring your home, your health, your cars and your businesses * Fluent in Englsih & Spanish * 20 years experience * Fully Legal * Home visits for on-site advice * All claims handled efficiently * Friendly, experienced service * Providing the best cover for the best price
TEL: 96 158 1524 seguros.gayol@allianzmed.es Ejército Español, 13, bajos 46900 Torrent (Valencia)
Un pensamiento final: nuestro objetivo, si decides elegir nuestros servicios, es que no te importe si tu vida en España se ilumina por la red eléctrica o la energía solar.
Prediction in 1949 regarding computers Computers in the future may weigh no more than 1.5 tons. (Popular Mechanics, 1949).
I got a new stick of deodorant today. The instructions said: Remove cap and push up bottom. I can barely walk, but whenever I fart the room smells lovely!
SOLAR CAHT & BRIT FUN
While proudly showing off his new apartment to friends, a college student led the way into the den. “What is the big brass gong and hammer for? “ one of his friends asked. “That is the talking clock “, the man replied. “How’s it work? “ the friend asked. “Watch “, the man said then proceeded to give the gong an ear shattering pound with the hammer. Suddenly someone screamed from the other side of the wall... “KNOCK IT OFF, YOU IDIOT! It’s two o’clock in the morning! BRITCHAT . 19
EL DRAGÓN DEL PATRIARCA, UN VIEJO CUENTO VALENCIANO THE DRAGON OF THE PATRIARCH - AN OLD VALENCIAN TALE By Cristina Garay Paseando por las calles de la vieja Valencia son muchas las historias que vienen a mi mente. Leyendas de todo tipo que escuché en mi niñez, como ésta que me contaba mi abuelo cuando en aquellos largos paseos dominicales nos adentrábamos en el laberinto de calles rebuscando en los secretos del pasado de esta increíble ciudad que es Valencia. Justo detrás de la antigua universidad, en el barrio de La Xerea, que era el barrio judío en tiempos medievales, se encuentra la Iglesia del Patriarca un imponente edificio gótico al que se accedía a través de una entrada siempre en penumbra que daba un poco de miedo. En ese lugar había y hay todavía un cocodrilo disecado, relleno de paja, colgado en la pared. Esta es la historia que escuché. Puede resultar ingenua ahora, pero os juro que para mi era y sigue siendo un bello cuento de caballeros y dragones. Según la leyenda,en el siglo XIV, cuando Valencia todavía era una pequeña ciudad encerrada dentro de sus murallas árabes, había un dragón feroz que vivía en el cauce del río Turia, atacando con ferocidad insaciable a aquellos transeúntes y agricultores que se aventuraban en las cercanias del rio y la Albufera. Nadie era capaz de detener a la bestia, ni siquiera los guerreros más valientes, ni la más aguda de las flechas, ni las mejores y más afiladas espadas o las lanzas más largas y certeras. Un día, un extranjero, un joven vagabundo judío que había sido condenado a muerte por el consejo de la ciudad, accedió a pactar con el gobernador para salvar su vida. A cambio, él mataría al dragón. Como el gobernador no lo creía capaz de hacerlo, y el condenado
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iba a morir en el intento de todos modos, el gobernador de Valencia le concedió su petición. Durante semanas, el misterioso hombre se encerró en una casa en el barrio judío de La Xerea trabajando en secreto hasta la madrugada. La chimenea permanecía encendida a horas extrañas en la primavera. Día y noche. Botellas, restos de vidrio y vasos seguían llegando y llenando el lugar. Por fin, un día brillante y soleado, con esa luz que sólo es posible en Valencia, el misterioso joven judio salió de la casa vestido con una túnica oscura y con una capucha cubriéndole la cabeza. Ante las miradas atónitas de los espectadores incrédulos, se dirigió al cauce del río Turia, el reino de la bestia despiadada que aterrorizaba la ciudad . El dragón, en cuanto lo vio, presagiando otra presa fácil de matar, no perdió tiempo en atacar al valiente caballero, quien, en ese preciso momento, se quitó la
OUT & ABOUT CHAT
THE DRAGON OF THE PATRIARCH - AN OLD VALENCIAN TALE EL DRAGÓN DEL PATRIARCA, UN VIEJO CUENTO VALENCIANO By Cristina Garay
capa y la capucha, descubriendo una armadura hecha de espejos que captaba y reflejaba los rayos brillantes del sol. Ciego y deslumbrado, el dragón abrió sus fauces instintivamente y el caballero de la armadura de espejo, sacando una lanza, la clavó en la mandibula de la bestia una y otra vez … Pronto se le unieron muchos de los habitantes de Valencia que saltaron sobre el asesino dragón dándole muerte y acabando de esta manera con la pesadilla que asoló Valencia. Hay otra versión y otra explicación al dragón colgado en la pared de El Patriarca: El cocodrilo es, de hecho, un caimán traído de América a Valencia en el siglo XVII por el Virrey de Perú y fue colocado en la pared de la iglesia para simbolizar el silencio. La historia es un cuento tradicional valenciano escrito por el famoso autor Vicente Blasco Ibáñez. Pero yo prefiero pensar que es un dragón real, al que mató un caballero valiente vestido con una armadura de espejos.
Strolling through the Old streets of Valencia, many stories come to mind. Legends of all kinds that I heard in my childhood, like this one that my grandfather told me during those long Sunday walks through the maze of streets, rummaging through the secrets buried in the past of this incredible city. Just behind the old university in the neighbourhood of La Xerea, which used to be the Jewish quarter in medieval times, we find the church of El Patriarca, an imposing gothic building which is only acessible through a narrow entrance that is always in darkness and a little scary. In that very place was and still is, an ancient, stuffed crocodile hanging on the wall. This is the story I heard when I was a child. It may sound naive now, but I swear that for me it was and still is, a beautiful tale of Knights and Dragons. According to the the 14th century Legend, when Valencia was still a small city encased within its Moorish walls, a dangerous dragon used to live in the bed of the river Turia, attacking passers-by and the Albufera farmers with insatiable voracity. No one was able to
OUT & ABOUT CHAT
stop the beast, not the bravest warriors, nor the sharpest arrows, the best swords, or the longer spears. One day, a foreigner, a vagabond young Jew, who had been condemned to death, pleaded with the city Governor to spare his life. In exchange, he would kill the dragon. Not believing him capable of it, and bound to die anyway in the attempt, the Governor of Valencia granted his request. For weeks, the mysterious man locked himself in a house in the jewish quarter, working in secrecy until the small hours. The chimney was smoking at odd hours in spring and day and night, bottles and glasses keep filling the place. One bright and sunny day, with that light that is only possible in Valencia, he emerged from the house clothed in a dark robe and with a hood covering his head. Through disbelieving onlookers, he made his way to the Turia river, the kingdom of the deadly beast. The dragon, sensing another easy prey to kill, wasted no time in attacking the courageous knight, who threw off his cape and hood at the last minute, revealing underneath an armor made entirely of mirrors which caught and reflected the bright rays of the sun. Blinded and dazzled, the dragon opened its jaws instinctively. The knight of the mirrored armour produced a lance and struck the beast in its jowl again and again. Soon he was joined by a number of Valencia inhabitants that lept upon the dragon slaying him to death, ending in this way the nightmare that had cursed Valencia. There is another version and another explanation to the dragon hanging on the wall of El Patriarca: The crocodile is in fact an alligator or caiman brought back to Valencia in the 17th century by the Peru Governor and was placed on the wall of the church to symbolize silence. This story is a traditional Valencian tale written by the famous author Vicente Blasco Ibañez. However, I prefer to think of a real dragon slain by a brave and handsome knight in a shining armour of mirrors.
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Eggs-actly what you need for breakfast HUEVOS ..... Exactamente lo que necesitas para desayunar By The Editor participants’ self-reported appetite ratings reveal that a protein-rich breakfast helps keep hunger at bay.” “Starting the day with a high-quality protein breakfast like eggs is a great tool to promote long-lasting fullness and reduced calorie consumption,” said Helenbeth Reynolds, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant. “For only 70 calories, eggs are a compact, nutrient-rich source of high-quality protein, and nearly half of an egg’s protein, along with many other nutrients, is found in the yolk, so I always encourage eating the whole egg.”
Remember the advertising slogan ‘go to work on an egg’? It seems that recent research backs the message, finding that you’re more likely to stave off hunger till lunchtime if you breakfast on eggs. According to the journal Nutrition Research, eating eggs for breakfast helps reduce calorie consumption throughout the day by up to 18 percent. The University of Connecticut compared the effects of protein-rich, egg-based breakfasts with carbohydrate-based breakfasts on 21 men. On one test day, the men ate three scrambled eggs and one-and-ahalf pieces of white toast, while on the other test day they ate one plain bagel, one half tablespoon of lowfat cream cheese and six ounces of low-fat yoghurt. The two breakfasts contained identical calories. The researchers noted that the men ate roughly 112 fewer calories at a buffet lunch three hours following the egg breakfast, compared to the bagel breakfast, and had approximately 400 fewer calories in the following 24-hour period. In addition, blood tests showed that ghrelin, the hormone that stimulates hunger when elevated, was higher after the bagel breakfast. This study supports previous research, published in the International Journal of Obesity in 2008, which revealed that eating eggs for breakfast as part of a reduced-calorie diet, helped overweight dieters lose 65 percent more weight and feel more energetic than dieters who ate a bagel breakfast of equal calories and volume. “There is a growing body of evidence that supports the importance of high-quality protein in the diet for overall health and in particular the importance of protein at the breakfast meal,” said Maria Luz Fernandez, study author and professor in the department of nutritional sciences at the University of Connecticut. “We examined two typical American breakfasts, and the BRITCHAT . 22
¿Os acordáis del anuncio británico con el lema ‘go to work on an egg’? Pues parece que recientes estudios refuerzan este mensaje, ya que se a descubierto que es más probable que no te sientas hambriento hasta el almuerzo si desayunas huevos. Según la revista Nutrition Research, comer huevos en el desayuno ayuda a reducir el consumo de calorías durante el resto del día en un 18 %. La universidad de Connecticut comparó los efectos de un desayuno rico en proteínas basado en huevos, en 21 sujetos. En un día del test los hombres comieron tres huevos revueltos y una tostada y media, mientras que en otro día del estudio comieron solamente una bagel,un cucharada sopera de queso en crema bajo en calorías y seis onzas de yogurt “light”. Los dos desayunos contenían idénticas calorías. Los investigadores notaron que los sujetos comieron, aproximadamentes, 112 calorías menos en un almuerzo estilo bufet, tres horas después de haber desayunado huevos, comparados con los que consumieron el desayuno a bases de Bagel y tuvieron 400 calorías menos en las siguientes 24 horas. Además, los análisis de sangre mostraron que la grelina, la hormona que estimula el apetito cuando se eleva, era más alta con el desayuno de bagels. Este estudio, apoya a otro previo, publicado en el International Journal of Obesity en 2008, que reveló que comer huevos para desayunar como parte de una dieta de reducidas calorías, ayudó a los sujetos con sobrepeso, a perder un 65 % más peso y sentirse mas energéticos que aquellos que consumieron una bagel en un desayuno de igual calorías y volumen . “Hay muchas evidencias que sostienen la importancia para la salud de proteínas de calidad elevada en la dieta y en particular la importancia de las proteínas en el desayuno” dice Maria Luz Fernandez, autora del estudio y profesora del departamento de Ciencias Nutricionales de la Universidad de Connecticut. “Examinamos dos típicos desayunos americanos y los participantes y las auto-evaluaciones de su apetito revelaron que un desayuno rico en HEALTH & FITNESS CHAT
Eggs-actly .... HUEVOS ..... Exactamente By The Editor proteínas ayuda a moderar el hambre” “Comenzar el día con una proteína de alta calidad, como los huevos, en el desayuno, es una importante herramienta para sentirse saciado y reducir el consumo de calorías,” afirma Helenbeth Reynolds, especialista en dietética y nutrición. “Con sólo 70 calorías, los huevos son un nutriente compacto y una fuente de proteínas de calidad. Cerca de la mitad de las proteínas, junto con otros importantes nutrientes se encuentran en la yema, así que yo siempre aconsejo comer el huevo entero”.
x
“If there are any idiots in the room, will they please stand up “ said the sarcastic teacher. After a long silence, freshman rose to his feet.
one
“Now then mister, why do you consider yourself an idiot? “ enquired the teacher with a sneer. “Well, actually I don’t,” said the student, “but I hate to see you standing up there all by yourself. “ HEALTH & FITNESS CHAT
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& Introducing Home from Home Boarding Kennels
Pet Chat P.E.P.A. Protección y educación para los
animales
Chulo was born approx Sept 2008 and is medium sized. He’s a bright, happy dog with boundless energy and zest for life. He loves people and all other dogs. He is obedient and responds well to training. Chulo is fully vaccinated, has a European passport and is castrated. For more information please telephone 650 304 746 or browse our website: www.pepaspain.com.
For more information aboutChulo and all our ther animals please telephone P.E.P.A on
650 304 746 www.pepaspain.com PROTECTORA JAIME D’ORTOLA WE ARE SPANISH AND WE DO CARE
ABOUT DOGS. DOGS DON’T HAVE ANY NATIONALITY, THEY ARE JUST DOGS AND THEY SUFFER!!
Campaigning for pet sterilization. Please give us a hand and contact us on:
HOME FROM HOME BOARDING KENNELS A COMFY, HOMELY PLACE FOR DOGS Home from Home boarding Kennels has opened its doors recently in the Valencian village of Pedralba with the aim of providing a personalised first class service for your dog whilst you are away. The kennels, set in a beautiful rural location, are a stone’s throw from Pedralba, which is about 40 minutes away from Valencia. Home From Home Kennels, is a small, family run British business where the dogs are walked three times a day and are free to run in the exercise area. Their kennels are kept in a pristine, clean condition and the nutritional needs of the dogs watched closely. They cater for all sizes of canine friends and they have family Kennels available if you have two or more dogs. There is a veterinary practice available near by should anything unforeseen happen to your loved pet during it’s stay. The Business is fully legal and insured and new customers are welcome to visit the kennels prior to your dog staying with them. The price per day is 9 € per dog with full board or 8 € if you bring your own food. Discounts are available for extended stays. You can contact Home from Home Boarding Kennels at
homefromhomebk@gmail.com or phone 689 050 704
96 298 60 47
BRITCHAT . 24
PET CHAT
Letter from ...... WWW NATURALEZAYANIMALES.COM Hi, We have many dogs needing good homes, could you please put the attached photos and descriptions in your next issue for us? Our web site is .... www.NATURALEZAYANIMALES.COM and we are based in Pedralba. Would it also be possible to mention that we are desperate for foster homes for our dogs while we are re-homing them? You have been good enough to give us space before. Thank you, Linda Shepherd. Good home needed for Ralfie, a 16 week old male puppy. Full of fun and will make a wonderful family pet. He will be a medium size dog when full grown.
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Please Support our advertisers & Mention ................... Por favor nunca te olvides de mencionar a .............................. cuando respondas a algún anuncio. PET CHAT
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www.walkintranslations.com Este mes tuvimos un claro ganador en Rune Bjornson (handicap 22) que consiguió 34 puntos,con 6 puntos mas de ventaja que el resto del campo. Finalista quedó Peter Lane (handicap 28) quien marcó 28 puntos.
Results for the Stableford competition held at El Bosque Golf Club in Chiva on Monday 5th April 2010. Winner’s trophy kindly sponsored by Mike Fitzgerald from ..... www.walkintranslations.com This month we had a clear winner in Rune Bjornson (H/Cap 22) who scored 34 points, some 6 points clear of the rest of the field. Runner-Up went to Peter Lane (H/Cap 28) who scored 28 points. The NTP (after 3 shots) also went to Peter Lane on the Par 5 11th while Norman Tong won the NTP on the Par 3 14th. Andy Mitchell won the final NTP prize on the Par 3 4th hole.
El NTP (despues de tres disparos) fue también para para Peter Lane en el par 5 11, mientras Norman Tong ganó el NTP en el par 3 14. Andy Mitchell fue el ganador del premio final del NTP en el par 3 del agujero 4. La competición de grupo la ganaron Skip, Ed Butler, Geof Batstone y Bob McCartney. Finalmente las bolas perdidas fueron calculadas correctamente por Rune (53 bolas) quien tuvo un día redondo ganando los 34 € del premio. La competición del próximo mes tendrá lugar el Lunes 7 de Junio con el primer tee a las 10.00 am. Por favor poneos en contacto con Skip para reservar vuestra plaza en el 962133126 ó 628148939.
The group competition went to Skip, Ed Butler, Geoff Batstone and Bob McCartney a n d finally the lost balls were correctly calculated by Rune (at 53 balls) who rounded off a good day to collect the 34 euros prize.
Eso es todo por este mes, Tigger
Next month’s competition will be held on Monday 7th June with the first tee-time at 10.00am and please get in touch with Skip to book your place on 962133126 or 628148939. That’s all for another month, Tigger Resultados de la competición Stableford celebrada en El Bosque Cub de Golf en Chiva el 5 de Abril de 2010 Trofeo patrocinado por Make Fitzgerald de
“Hi Mom, How are you?” “Hi Kandra, where are you? I thought you were with your father at the Ace Hardware.” “Yeah we were, but I got arrested, and they’ve let me make one phone call.” “What happened?” “Oh, I punched this African-American woman in the head.” “What on earth ~ why did you do that ?????” “Well it wasn’t my fault. Dad told me to find a Black & Decker.” BRITCHAT . 26
SPORT CHAT
Don Quixote Competition
Winning Entries December & January Don Quijote está escondido en algún lugar de esta revista. Para ayudarle, aquí es un ejemplo de cómo él mirará.
Don Quixote is hiding somewhere in this magazine. To help you, here is an example of how he will look. If you find him, send your answer by email to
Si lo encuentras, envía tu respuesta por correo electrónico a
britchat@me.com
britchat@me.com.
El plazo está abierto hasta el último día de cada mes. La primera entrada sacada por una “mano inocente” de la bolsa el primer día del mes siguiente a ganará un premio.
Open until the last day of each month. The first entry drawn out of the bag on the 1st of the next month will win a prize.
Our first ever Spanish winner - Congratulations to JUAN, ANGELES & JAVIER Nuestros primeros ganadores Españoles: Felicitaciones para JUAN, ANGELES Y JAVIER OLD people have problems that you haven’t even considered yet! An 85-year-old man was requested by his Doctor for a sperm count as part of his physical exam. The doctor gave the man a jar and said, ‘Take this jar home and bring back a semen sample tomorrow.’ The next day the 85-year-old man reappeared at the doctor’s office and gave him the jar, which was as clean and empty as on the previous day. The doctor asked what happened and the man explained, ‘Well, doc, it’s like this -- first I tried with
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my right hand, but nothing. Then I tried with my left hand, but still nothing. ‘Then I asked my wife for help. She tried with her right hand, then with her left, still nothing. She tried with her mouth, first with the teeth in, then with her teeth out, still nothing. ‘We even called up Arleen, the lady next door and she tried too, first with both hands, then an armpit, and she even tried squeezin’ it between her knees, but still nothing.’ The doctor was shocked! ‘You asked your neighbour?’ The old man replied, ‘Yep, but none of us could get the jar open.’
Have you ever experienced?
- Stress - Tiredness, lack of energy - Pinched nerves - Migraines, headaches - Stiffness in the neck - Whiplash, neck trauma - Vertigos, dizziness - Tension, shoulder pains - Thoracic or lumbar pain - Chest pain, Asthma - Bad posture - Stomach acidity - Sciatica, pain down the leg - Joint pain, knee pain - Pins and needles, numbness arms or hands - Pins and needles or numbness down the leg If you have experienced one or more of these symptoms, chiropractic could be the solution. Call now for a free check, it could be the start of a new life!
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BRITCHAT ADVERTISE HERE & Guide2Valencia CALL CHRIS 687-486-909
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BUSINESS CHAT
MB
OTOGP - Round 1 - LOSAIL QATAR. y Dave Mellor
I’d like to think bike racing is 100 percent skill, but surely there has to be an element of luck in there too? Take Casey Stoner’s weekend for example, fastest in every session, by a mile and pole, you’d have got poor odds betting on him losing. In fourth, behind Ducati team mate Nicky Hayden after the start, Casey seemed at ease with the job in hand, as he picked off the riders in front to take the lead from a struggling Dani Pedrora, and that was when Casey’s luck ran out! Losing the front, the hapless Ausie was thrown into the kitty litter! This left Valentino Rossi to take the win. Behind Rossi, a late charge from team mate Jorge Lorenzo made it a Yamaha one two, while Dani Pedrosa was making hard work of his job, his team mate, Andrea Dovizioso, was locked in a battle for 3rd with Nicky Hayden, Dovi’s Honda being hyper fast down the straight, while Nicky’s Ducati was on rails round the corners. But the finish line is a long way from the last corner at Losail, even though Nicky passed Dovi on the straight, the Honda picked up it’s heals just enough to give Dovi 3rd. Ben Spies opened his season with an impressive 5th, more to come from the Texan me thinks.
STANDINGS. 1.V.ROSSI. 2.J.LORENZO. 3.A.DOVIZIOSO. 4.N.HAYDEN. 5.B.SPIES.
Me gustaría pensar que las carreras de motos dependen de la técnica al 100% pero seguro que la suerte también es algo a tener en cuenta. Tomemos el caso del fin de semana de Casey Stoners, por ejemplo, el más rápido en cada sesión, con una milla de ventaja y pole, tendrías pocas oportunidades de perder si apostaras por él. En el cuarto puesto detrás de su compañero del equipo Ducati Nicky Hayden, después del comienzo Casey parecía cómodo con el trabajo en sus manos de superar a los corredores que le habían precedido, para tomar el liderazgo de un Dani Pedrosa en problemas y fue entonces cuando la suerte de Casey se agotó. ¡ Perdiendo la posición cabecera al desventurado australiano lo SPORT CHAT
acabaron tirando al cubo de la basura! Esto dejó la victoria para Valentino Rossi. Detrás de Rossi, un tardío repostaje de su compañero de equipo Jorge Lorenzo, hizo que todo se quedara en el equipo Yamaha.Mientras Dani Pedrosa estaba dedicándose duramente a su oficio, su compañero de equipo Andrea Dovizioso, se enzarzó en una batalla por el tercer puesto con Nicky Hayden. La honda de Dovizioso fue super rápida en la recta final, mientras la Ducati de Nicky cogía las curvas sobre rieles. Pero la línea de meta está situada lejos de la última curva en Losail, y aunque nicky rebasó a Dovi en la recta, el de Honda hundió sus talones lo suficiente para dar a Dovi el tercer puesto. Ben Spies abrió la temporada con un impresionante quinto lugar. Pienso que veremos mucho más del Tejano.
RESULTADOS: 1.V.ROSSI. 2.J.LORENZO. 3.A.DOVIZIOSO. 4.N.HAYDEN. 5.B.SPIES.
PROVISIONAL MOTOGP CALENDAR
CALENDARIO PROVISIONAL MOTOGP 2010 2. APRIL/ABRIL - JAPAN.MOTEGI. 25 APRIL/ABRIL - QATAR.LOSAIL. 16 MAY/MAYO - FRANCE.LE MANS. 30 MAY/MAYO - ITALY. MUGELLO. 6 JUNE/JUNIO - ENGLAND. SILVERSTONE. 26 JUNE/JUNIO - HOLLAND. ASSEN. 4 JULY/JULIO - CATALUNYA. CATALUNYA. 18 JULY/JULIO - GERMANY. SACHENRING. 25 JULY/JULIO - USA. LAGUNA SECA. 15.AUGUST/AGUSTO - CZECH REPUBLIC.BRNO. 29. AUGUST/AGUSTO - INDIANAPOLIS. INDIANAPOLIS. 12 SEPTEMBER/SEPTIEMBRE - SAN MARINO. MISANO. 19 SEPTEMBER/SEPTIEMBRE - HUNGARY. BALATONRING. 10 OCTOBER/ OCTUBRE MALAYSIA. SEPANG. 17 OCTOBER/ OCTUBRE AUSTRAILIA. PHILIP ISLAND. 31 OCTOBER/ OCTUBRE PORTUGAL. ESTORIL. 7 NOVEMBER/ NOVIEMBE VALENCIA. RICARDO TORMO.
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Important To advertise here for free, email ......... britchatenq@me.com CLASSIFIEDS MUST be with us by the 1st of the month please and will be placed for ONE month only. If you wish to repeat it please send in again otherwise we will assume sold!
FOR A QUICKER SALE? Advertise it in both! BRITCHAT & Guide2Valencia Not only do you get a free Classified with Britchat, space permitting, we will give you more space in Guide2Valencia and you can have 4 photos and UNLIMITED text, all for FREE! All you have to do, is become a MEMBER at www.g uide2 v a l encia. com and make up your own classified advert.
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Wanted
Ford Focus
Lonely expat. needs company. If you’d like a chat over a cup of tea please phone Gill. 962 665 873. Could Nieves please contact me again? I’ve lost your number.
Classifieds Wooden Frame Sofa
All new cushions and covers - red rose design - ideal for covered terrace - 50 euros. Tel: 962110171 or 637004816 Montserrat area.
Berlina Trend 1.6 Duratorq TDCi 90 CV, diesel , 2006 ,75400 KM, 5 door. colour Azul Ceramica,hands free Bluetooth, CD 6000. climate control. Full Ford service history, a few sctracthes on rear door, Good condition inside and out. Price 7500 euros sold as seen. Contact 638861262 (Betera)
Pressure Washer
Scooter
Linhai Mainstreet scooter. 1250 euros o.n.o. Year 2006. 260cc. Blue. ITV until April 2012. Tel: 699555175
Wooden Front Door
Wooden Front Door, with Wrought Iron decorated Central Panel - 150 euros. UVPC sliding widow, with roller blind (1m x 1m) - 30 euros. Tel:677-629944 & 677-629-936 (Casinos Area)
Se vende Hidrolimpiadora de alta presion marca Kärcher modelo K 2.21 con toma para detergente y dos tipos de lanzas para limpieza. regalo de accesorio cepillo para limpiar el coche. Precio 60 Euros. Juan. 655-761-584.
Kitchen Corner Unit
Kitchen corner unit for sale consisting in 3 pieces -Table, bench and high back bench. Good condition. 100 €. Buyers collect. Please call 962126601 or 678069432. Macastre area.
CLASSIFIED CHAT, BRITCHAT MISSION & LEGAL STUFF
Various Items
SUDOKU
Hard Wood sun beds - €15 each - In need of slight repair to hinges. Electric Potatoe Peeler 10 € Fan portable, 1 x upright and 3 speed oscillating) - €10
Cepsa silver gas bottles 5 x 15 € (Empty) Montserrat area - Call 687 486 909
Ladies Trousers & Tops
Size 18 long - Black navy & Charcoal. Silk Tops size 18-20 Everything Machine Washable 96-299-9036 Montserrat
“Ever since we got married, my wife has tried to change me. She got me to stop drinking, smoking and running around until all hours of the night. She taught me how to dress well, enjoy the fine arts, gourmet cooking, classical music, even how to invest in the stock market. “ “Sounds like you may be bitter because she changed you so drastically,” remarked his friend. “I’m not bitter. Now that I’m so improved, she just isn’t good enough for me.”
Codeword Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number 1-26. Can you crack the code and solve the crossword? Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Three letters are already in place to get you started. All words are in English.
A man who lived in a block of apartments thought it was raining and put his head out the window to check. As he did so a glass eye fell into his hand. He looked up to see where it came from in time to see a young woman looking down. “Is this yours? “ he asked. She said, “Yes, could you bring it up? “ and the man agreed. On arrival she was profuse in her thanks and offered the man a drink. As she was very attractive he agreed. Shortly afterwards she said, “I’m about to have dinner. There’s plenty; would you like to join me? “ He readily accepted her offer and both enjoyed a lovely meal. As the evening was drawing to a close the lady said, “I’ve had a marvelous evening. Would you like to stay the night? “ The man hesitated then said, “Do you act like this with every man you meet? “ “No,” she replied, “Only those who catch my eye!”
CLASSIFIED CHAT & BRIT FUN
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