The Olive Press Catalunya magazine May 2012 issue 48

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May 2012 issue 48

CATALUNYA

oakapple may


2 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


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Welcome to the May edition of “The Olive Press”

Now each month for 4 years without a miss.

Please note our New Web Site www.the-olive-press.com E-mail info@the-olive-press.com

We are now a truly Catalan magazine with distribution from Vinaros in the south To Roses In the north. IF YOU WANT TO REACH EXPATS IN CATALUNYA…NO BETTER WAY. Perfect Advertising for Solar power Suppliers, independent Financial Advisors, Vets, Security, Architects Surveyors, Translators, Insurance Agents, Removals, Travel agents, Storage, Lawyers, Builders, D.I.Y, Plumbers, Car Repairs, Tax Advisors, Air Con, Heating, Computer, Printing, Broadband, Satellite TV, Mortgages and Loans, Estate Agents, Pool Supplies, Dentists, Doctors…etc…etc.

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Contributors: Clodagh & Dick Handscombe Carlos Prieto Cid Jeff Greensmith / Stuffed Olive Designs Printing: Indugraf SA COVER PICTURE: Deposito Legal: MAoakapple may 1565-2008 (Jane The Olive Press)

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What’s News-In Spain PC Tips

6+8+9

Oak

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Your Horoscope 11 Can it be True? 10+12+13+19 Health & Well Being 14 The Two Cows 15 The Lighter Side 16+17 Catalunyan Fiestas 18 Gourmet Treat your taste buds 26 Law 28 Home & Garden 30 Property Update 34 Crossword 36 Classifieds 38+39 Business Card Directory 40+41+42 Apple Day or Royal Oak was a holiday celebrated in England on 29 May to commemorate the restoration of the English monarchy, in May 1660. In some parts of the country, the day was also known as Shick Shack Day, Oak and Nettle Day or Arbor Tree Day. In 1660, Parliament declared 29 May a public holiday:"Parliament had ordered the 29 of May, the King's birthday, to be for ever kept as a day of thanksgiving for our redemption from tyranny and the King's return to his Government, he entering London that day." The public holiday, Oak Apple Day, was formally abolished in 1859, but the date retains some significance in local or institutional customs. It is, for example, kept as Founder's Day in the Royal Hospital Chelsea (founded by Charles II in 1681). Traditional celebrations to commemorate the event often entailed the wearing of oak apples (a type of plant gall, possibly known in some parts of the country as a shick-shack, or sprigs of oak leaves, in reference to the occasion after the Battle of Worcester in September 1651, when the future Charles Day

Contents

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II of England escaped the Roundhead army by hiding in an oak tree near Boscobel House. Anyone who failed to wear a sprig of oak risked being pelted with bird's eggs or thrashed with nettles. These ceremonies, which have now largely died out, are perhaps continuations of pre-Christian nature worship. The Garland King who rides through the streets ofCastleton, Derbyshire, at the head of a procession, completely disguised in a garland of flowers, which is later affixed to a pinnacle on the parish church tower, can have little connection with the Restoration, even though he dresses in Stuart costume. He is perhaps a kind of Jack in the Green and the custom may have transferred fromMay Day when such celebrations were permitted again after having been banned by the Puritans. Events still take place at Uptonupon-Severn, Northampton, Aston on Clun in Shropshire, Marsh Gibbon in Buckinghamshire, Great Wishford in Wiltshire when villagers gather wood in Grovely Wood, and Membury in Devon. The day is generally marked by re-enactment activities at Moseley Old Hall, one of the houses where Charles II hid in 1651. At some Oxford and Cambridge halls a toast is still drunk to celebrate Oak Apple Day. Disclaimer: No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without prior permission in writing from the publisher. The Olive Press does not accept responsibility for the contents of the articles supplied by contributors nor for the claims made by advertisers

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news in spain

Man loses testicle in 5 a side football game in Barcelona

The 22 year old says he is now going to give up the game. A man playing five a side football in Barcelona has lost a testicle after being assaulted during a game. The official record of the match shows no incidents greater than two yellow cards, and reports indicate several players surrounded the referee without being able to see what was happening. Police say they have established the 22 year old player was kneed in the groin in an off-the-ball dispute and the attack was not accidental. At half time the ambulance arrived and took the victim to hospital. He’s not been named but apparently has decided to give up playing football, despite practicing since! The player, from the Club Esportiu Terra Negra team, has denounced the aggression, presumably from a player from the Jesús i María club.

Ryanair thanks the SEPLA pilots for the strike action in Iberia The Irish airline says passengers are booking with them 'for no strikes guaranteed' Ryanair has issued a statement thanking the Iberia pilots for their strike action. The statement said ‘We are beginning to gain affection’ for SEPLA for ‘threatening’ once again the Iberia passengers for the summer season. The SEPLA union pilots h a v e c a l l e d stri ke s e ve ry Mo n d a y a n d Friday until the end of July in protest at the creation of the new Iberia Express airline. Ryanair has commented that this is encouraging passengers more and more to look for tickets ‘guaranteed without a strike’. It criticizes SEPLA also however for not taking the passengers or their families into account and for creating a summer ‘of anguish and uncertainty’.Meanwhile Iberia management have gone to the courts over the pilots’ action, considering the strike could be illegal and in demand of economic compensation for the damage being caused to the company, calculated at 3 million € a day..


PC TIPS You are not using Twitter yet?...

you may feel as if you've missed out. Don't be put off by its excessive popularity with geeks or by the whining of Twitter haters who missed the fun. Twitter is an interesting and practical real-time messaging system for groups and friends. It's just not completely obvious how to get into the "club." So, here's a newbie's guide to this new platform. We don't cover every feature of Twitter, but this should help get you started. What is Twitter? Twitter is an online service that enables you to broadcast short messages to your friends or "followers." It also lets you specify which Twitter users you want to follow so you can read their messages in one place. Twitter is designed to work on a mobile phone as well as on a computer. All Twitter messages are limited to 140 characters, so each message can be sent as a single SMS alert. You can't say much in 140 characters. That's part of Twitter's charm. Twitter is useful for close-knit groups (although there also are some fairly large mobs on Twitter). If you follow your friends, and they follow each other, you can quickly communicate group-related items, such as "I'm going to the pub on Fourth Street, come on along. If you enter items into Twitter, they can be private, so only friends you've authorized can see them. Items can also be made public, which means anyone who knows your Twitter ID can read and subscribe to them. Twitter is free. Continue reading to learn how to get started, hook up your mobile, send your first "Tweet," follow friends, and direct Twitter. We also show you some advanced features and Twitterers worth following. How to get started Go to Twitter.com and click "Join for free." For best results, use your real name when signing up; otherwise your friends won't be able to find you easily. It's also helpful to upload a picture. If you select the "Protect my updates" box, people won't be able to read your Twitters unless you authorize them. You'll have more fun if you leave this box unchecked. Just be sure not to Twitter, "Leaving house open and unlocked for the weekend: 1520 Main Street." Now that you have a Twitter account, tell your friends your username or send them the link to your Twitter page. Each users has his own page, in the form twitter.com/username. Hook up your mobile phone and IM accountThe Twitter network works for you even if you're not at your computer or browsing the Web. Once you are registered, you can connect your mobile phone and instant

messenger account. Go to Settings > Phone and IM. Connecting your phone and IM programs to your Twitter account is a straightforward process. Note that messages you view on a phone or an IM program also are readable on your personal Twitter Web page. You can make Twitter send you a message every time a user who you are following has posted a Twitter message. This can be fun, but it will drive you crazy if you are following a lot of people. If you don't want to be barraged by a stream of random messages but still want friends to be able to reach you, select "Direct Message." Then when other users send a message to you and you alone, you'll be alerted on your phone or IM account. Otherwise, you won't get an alert. Sending Twitter messages, or "Tweets" Sending a Tweet from a mobile You can send a Twitter message, or "Tweet," from any of your registered devices. From the Web page, enter a message in the entry window at the top of the page. From a mobile phone, send an SMS message to 40404. Your phone's caller ID is attached to your Twitter account, so the system will know it's from you. From IM, message TwitterIM if you're on AOL, or twitter@twitter.com if you're on Jabber/GTalk. In all these cases, all your "followers" will see your message on their own Twitter pages and possibly on their mobile devices as well are Have Fun !


news in spain

The top Spanish motorbike rider is accused of having an earpiece in his ear during the examination for yacht's captain. Spanish motorbike rider, Dani Pedrosa, is reported to be among 21 people who were arrested by the Guardia Civil last Saturday in investigations into the alleged purchase of exams to qualify as a yacht captain. Pedrosa has been indicted and was allegedly in a group of ten people detained on Saturday when doing the exam at the Polytechnic University in Valencia. He’s accused of taking up the identity of another person and of copying with the use of an earpiece. The Government Delegate for Valencia, Paula Sánchez de León of the 21 arrested, four were part of an organisation which gave the exam answers and were found outside the hall, seven had taken the identity of someone else and ten were being informed by an earpiece. The instruction judge has imposed reporting restrictions and so the names of those detained has not been released by the court. The biker was released Saturday night, but later was indicted in the case which the Guardia Civil have been working on for months. Pedrosa’s agent has claimed that his client was in Switzerland the whole weekend.

Animals were being ill-treated on the farm Four workers on a farm in Murcia have been arrested f o r i l l treatment of the pigs. The Civil G u a r d arrested the manager and three o t h e r workers at the Fuente Álamo farm after the Igualdad Animal organisation denounced a continued crime of ill-treatment to the courts. It’s alleged that the men used iron bars and used knives to give birth when the sow was still alive. The animal protection organisation presented the denuncia after being showed a video. It had been recorded by one of the workers at the farm who, after three years, decided to take action. He said the killing of pigs with a knife was common and ill-treatment was ‘constant and routine’ The four men, two aged 40, one 32 and one 22, are now before the Instruction Court in Cartagena. When the Guardia Civil inspected the farm, with vets from the Direction General of Animal Husbandry in Murcia, there were more than 3,000 females and 7,000 breeding pigs.

8 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


A.R.C.A. NEWS.

The Rajoy administration has now been in power for 100 days Mariano Rajoy will today, Monday, explain the Spanish budget to an emissary from Angela Merkel’s government. He will receive Volker Kauder, and inform him of the changes carried out in Spain in the last weeks. Kauder is President of the CDU parliamentary group in Germany. Meanwhile the Spanish press has been reviewing the first 100 days of the Rajoy administration, the time traditionally in Spain for generosity to be shown to the new Government. But it has been a 100 days of labour reforms, spending cuts, and a General Strike. A very harsh editorial in the Financial Times this morning describes the 2012 budget as ‘strange and worrying’. The paper notes in his favour that Rajoy should not have found himself facing reducing the deficit from 8.5% to 5.3%. ‘The EU should have let Madrid leave the target at 5.8% because the Spanish debt is one of the lowest in the developed countries and because too much austerity can reduce growth and increase the risk of Madrid failing to meet their objectives. The FT says it will not be easy to make 17% savings in the Ministries, and thinks the decision to freeze wages in the public

LIFES A BEACH FOR BONNIE. Bonnie was found up in the mountains almost at deaths door, very thin and had recently had pups, which were not found with her, we adopted her from A.R.C.A. 6 years ago, she is such a loving, gentle dog & so happy to be loved & in a safe home. A.R.C.A. have many loving dogs like Bonnie, wanting a second chance, sadly they have a short life and for many a very sad one, if you can change a life of just one dog the reward is amazing, you have a true friend & companion which is unbeatable. You can text or call me on 678 975 816. Many thanks once again, Mave. s e c to r co u l d m e et o p p o s i t i o n . I t also doubts the effectiveness of the fiscal amnesty and the government expectation of the measure bringing in 2.5 billion €. There are concerns too about the higher taxes on businesses, and says it would have been better to increase VAT/IVA. In conclusion it says that ‘ This budget runs the risk of exacerbating social tensions without creating the conditions to allow a fall in the costs of Spanish bonds, and although the EU is guilty of imposing unnecessary austerity, Rajoy ’s budget could have been better designed’

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can it be true

L i verpool man ag er Kenny Dalglish, disappointed by his Liverpool Players team’s recent poor to Debate “New form,has arranged a Philosophy” seminar for the players to discuss their need for a “new philosophy”. His brow creased in a thoughtful frown, Dalglish noted that several schools of thought already exist in th e d re ssi n g room. “You’ve got Steven Gerrard, who’s got a phenomenological left foot. There’s Martin Skirtl who advocates a back four of Nietzschean supermen. Then you have Jamie Carragher who’s adopted the Sartrean motto ‘Hell is other players’.” He went on to add, “In an ideal world, we wouldn’t need to have these sorts of discussions and Liverpool would just win everything. But despite what some of the players seem to think, this isn’t an ideal world. We need to get back to form “And I don’t mean the Platonic sort.”

Paraprosdokian is apparently a figure of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected in a way that causes the reader or listener to reframe or reinterpret the first part. I asked God for a bike, but I know God doesn’t work that way. So I stole a bike and asked for forgiveness. Do not argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience. I want to die peacefully in my sleep, like my grandfather. Not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his car. Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car. War does not determine who is right -- only who is left.

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Leo (July 21-Aug. 22) You seek freedom. You must travel somewhere and find yourself. This will be a new self and one you've been preparing for quite a while now (actually years and years). What will it take to set yourself upon a new path? Careful in relationships. Old wounds emerge so they can dissolve away. Are you asking where your home is?

Gemini(May 23-June20) Any situations you are in a dilemma about will be dealt with in dreams, meditations, contemplative thoughts, and long walks. You've become exceedingly sensitive. Be very observant with how you present duality. Venus is attempting to harmonize everything. You'll need to let this occur so you can unify too. This is a longing you have

Cancer (June 21-July 20) Something within the groups you work and interact with will allow you to focus on thoughts and feelings that have been difficult recently. You will be able to make clearer decisions, come to agreements and begin to make future plans quite soon now. This New Moon is asking you to invoke a spirit of not only illumination but gratitude, too. Fear then dissolves

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You make new plans for the future. Old beliefs are falling away and this clears the way for a new world of thought and ideas that encompasses all the world's beliefs. A deep reorientation occurs. This may feel like a test. It is. Nine of them. Then the wheel turns

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct.22) Great amounts of work can be accomplished. You have strength, ability, desire, aspiration, and courage to approach whatever is needed and apply yourself until completion In general. All will run smoothly though with an accelerated pace. Careful at home and with family. It's not so smooth there. Apply the appropriate salvage if necessary

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov.21) You seek comfort and security to a greater degree at this time within relationships. This is good and it will be up to you to achieve half of it. How? By listening more, seeing the life principle in the other, and allowing for change to occur in all levels within your interactions. This is not easy. But it's imperative for future constancy to occur

Sagittarius(Nov. 22-Dec. 20) Is your mind simply overrun with new creative ideas? Do you at times want to become an entirely new person but you don't know who that is yet? Is communication at times, or perhaps thoughts, both a wound and a healing? This month work will need fortitude. Romance may occur. We hope

Capricorn(Dec. 21-Jan. 20) You want to move forward, your usual state of activity, but the Mercury retro pulls you back and asks for more contemplation rather than action. This is good as it allows you to prepare for the months ahead with a clear, cool head. It's time for a renewal of your self-identity. Who are you to be now?

Aquarius(Jan. 21-Feb.18) You are maturing, growing into realization concerning the reality of your past and your family. Whereas before you could not understand, now you do. Each of us makes commitments prior to each lifetime. All family members are involved in this. This is how we serve one another. It's a paradox. Try to understand so your mind is illumined

Pisces (Feb. 18-March 20) You will focus on how to communicate so that you are heard and understood and also so that others are cared for on all levels. This will be a difficult task. You may also travel. Prepare yourself for ups and downs, the new and the old. Laughter is best. It's actually a meditation.

Aries (March 21-April 20) You seek security and the art of living. Recent tumultuous events, both inner and outer, filled with desire and frustration, love and wonder, push you here and there and you wonder if comfort will ever be experienced again. It will but not until a few tests are completed. Maintain dedication and pray for right action. Will it

Taurus (April 21-May 21) You seek to relate to others more deeply than usual. Perhaps thoughts of friendships (who are they) and the need for a vacation or time of release and relaxation occur. You feel the necessity for more resources to meet several major responsibilities. Now is a good time to negotiate any financial arrangements. Someone in your family needs shoes

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D

airy Crest has

announced they will make the milk of can it be true human kindness in a long life sterilised form for those who cannot afford reliable refrigeration. Marketing Director Alan James said "It's in keeping with the brand that we reach out to the less fortunate with this vital food for body and soul." Now, though, vegan campaigners are demanding a "soy milk of human kindness" arguing a need for "tolerance of the lactose intolerant." Meanwhile Tesco is understood to be rushing out a giant double chock milk shake of human kindness with one child goes free to Aqualand offer for Easter…terms and conditions apply. We are working on an “evaporated milk of human kindness” especially for the Chinese market said a Dairy Crest spokesman.

The British public have

expressed delight at plans to introduce 24-hour surveillance telescreens into their homes that will beam out the massive face of David Cameron. ‘We were planning to monitor everyone's phone calls, texts and emails but this system is so much simpler,’ said the all-seeing widescreen PM. ‘Telescreens are the best way for me to personally oversee The Big Society and to make sure that everyone is doing their bit.’ Under the scheme all homes will be fitted with a government approved CCTV, or Cameron Controlled Television, a combined TV and security camera that will allow ‘Big Dave’ to keep a watchful eye on people’s behaviour at all times. ‘Every telescreen will be HD ready so people can enjoy my big fat face in all its glorious detail,’ said Cameron, ‘and very

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soon we hope to be rolling out the 3D version so that I can loom menacingly into your living room and tell you not to panic.’ Until recently the telescreens had been restricted to the homes of Inner and Outer party members, and were used primarily to keep an eye on Nick Clegg and make sure he was maintaining his Doublethink. This is the first time that the telescreens will be made available to the Proles, and the news has already been warmly welcomed with a celebratory ‘Two Minutes Hate’.‘Yes, these new telescreens are fantastic,’ said one random member of the public, a Mr Winston Smith. ‘To know that Mr Cameron is watching over us at all times is very comforting. I feel so loved.’ Concerns by civil liberties campaigners that the country was rapidly turning into a ‘Big Brother’ state were dismissed by newly appointed Minister for Truth Mr O’Brien. ‘These people are adding two and two together and making four,’ he said, ‘when everyone knows that the r ea l an sw er i s five ‘People will soon get used to the telescreens,’ he assured. ‘Let’s face it, most of the time they are on Facebook or Twitter telling everyone what they're up to anyway, so I fail to see what all the fuss is about.’ The Prime Minister rejected claims that the plans were ‘Orwellian’. ‘I really don't think that this can be said,' he insisted, ‘especially since the term ‘Orwellian’ has now been reclassified as a thoughtcrime.’


I

n a move which has shocked

the colonialist

Argentinians claim Argentina as their own.

of some of his earlier creations' he grumbled, 'like that magnificent white wine sauce from the semifinal, created out of just a few jeroboams of water.'

community, a group

Jesus defended his efforts however, saying that

of indigenous southern American people has claimed

he thought the judges had been overly harsh with

sovereignty of the area now described as ‘Argentina’.

their comments. 'Let's remember that I was cooking

Argentinean President Cristina Fernandez de

for 5,000 covers at the time. Cooking doesn't get

Kirchner, who traces her own American ancestry

tougher than that. To be honest it would have

all the way back to the captain of a 16th century

been a miracle if I had managed to pull it off.'

Spanish galleon,

Series champion Buddha was also surprised at the

was quick to

result. 'I thought Jesus was nailed on for the title' he

refute the claim.

quipped. 'I was frankly

“We err… the

pretty surprised that my

Spaniards,

minimalist dish with no

pretty well wiped

animals or vegetables

out the local

in it was enough for the

population at that time by a skilful combination of

win, but that's nouvelle

swordplay, early-musket target practice and syphilis.

cuisine for you isn't it.'

It seems unlikely, to say the least, that any of the

Other deities had fallen

16 natives, whom we err… they kept in a zoo for

earlier in the competition, as Wallace explained.

sentimental reasons, were able to reproduce and

'Mohammed blew his chance in the opening round

survive as a distinct race.” “This is just a ruse

when he refused to taste his cock-a-leekie soup

dreamed up by the British to divert attention from

because it was Ramadan. As a result he accidentally

their cruel history of invading other countries

left out the seasoning, and that was the end of

in large sailing ships. Oh, hang on…”

him.' Torode added 'and you should have seen the pickle Vishnu got into in the kitchen - arms

Jesus loses in 'Masterchef - The

- The Deities' final - loaves

Deities' final following

& fishes dish disappoints

Jesus loses 'Masterchef

tangled up everywhere. It was hilarious, but his jam roly-poly was a right mess.' Despite his disappointment, Jesus has vowed that

disappointing 'loaves

this won't be the last we see of him on the culinary

and fishes' dish[u]

front. 'You can't keep a good man down' he grinned.

Fans of the BBC's popular 'Masterchef - The Deities'

'I'm planning on launching my own range of milk-

series were left reeling last night as odds-on favourite

chocolate eggs. I've got a feeling they'll sell well

Jesus Christ fell at the last hurdle, handing victory

around Easter time. If only I could think of a good

on a a plate to rank outsider Buddha.

PR stunt to promote them...'

'Jesus had made the running all the way through' said judge Gregg Wallace, 'but 'in the final his loaves and fishes signature dish was something of an anti-climax. The flavours were poor and it was undercooked. He didn't even serve any of those nice chunky chips with it. So disappointing. It was also suspiciously reminiscent of a Birds Eye cod fish finger in breadcrumbs...' Fellow judge John Torode was also disappointed by Jesus' final effort. 'It just lacked the creativity

MySpanishome We are looking for properties in any AREA. So if you have a property to sell please contact: 977 446 655 +34 639 041 277 mobile Stephanie +34 679 499 316 mobile Steve Av. Generalitat 70, 43500, Tortosa, Tarragona, email: info@myspanishome.com www.myspanishome.com

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Fruit: A vital source of vitamins Although most fruits are sweet, they tend to be relatively low in calories, Better still, they are a good source of fibre and are packed with nutrients – especially vitamin C.

One reason why the much-vaunted Mediterranean diet is considered to be so good for the heart is because it includes plenty of fresh fruit. The World Health Organisation recommends that everyone should try to eat at least five portions of different fruit or vegetables each day. A portion of fruit counts as a single fruit, such as an apple or orange; a cup of small fruit grapes or raspberries, or a glass of pure fruit juice. Or even dried tinned and frozen fruit, however tinned fruit is often sweetened in syrup, and contains less vitamin C. Where possible buy tinned fruit in its own juice without added sugar. Fruit is a valuable source of ANTIOXIDENTS such as bioflavonoids and vitamin C, which may help to protect against degenerative diseases including cancer and heart disease. As fruit is low in calories it is an excellent food for anyone trying to lose weight.(summers coming). The bright fruits, oranges or deep yellow flesh fruits get their colour from a yellow-orange pigment called beta carotene, the plant for of vitamin A. Other carotene pigments such as lycopene are found in red fruits and these along with beta carotene are thought to protect against FREE RADICALS and possibly cancer, bananas and dried fruits are rich in potassium which helps to regulate blood pressure, it works in tandem with sodium to regulate the bodys fluid balance. The exotics kumquats, loquats and lychees all are good sources of vitamin c.Custard apples, persimmon or Sharon fruits and pomegranate are all good sources of potassium, fibre and vitamin c. So with all the benefits of rich in vitamins and fibre and the health benefits are there any drawbacks, yes fruit can contribute to tooth decay. FREE RADICALS (Free radicals are very unstable and react quickly with other compounds, trying to capture the needed electron to gain stability. Generally, free radicals attack the nearest stable molecule, "stealing" its electron. When the "attacked" molecule loses its electron, it becomes a free radical itself, beginning a chain reaction. Once the process is started, it can cascade, finally

resulting in the disruption of a living cell. Some free radicals arise normally during metabolism. Sometimes the body?s immune system?s cells purposefully create them to neutralize viruses and bacteria. However, environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and herbicides can also spawn free radicals Normally, the body can handle free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if the free-radical production becomes excessive, damage can occur. Of particular importance is that free radical damage accumulates with age.)

ALL BUILDING WORKS ALL OF CATALUNYA FREE QUOTATIONS ENGLISH AND SPANISH SPOKEN PLEASE CALL 653 847 593

14 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


The Two Cows explanation of Religion Jehovah's Witnesses Knock! Knock! You have two cows.

of that? My cows and I are leaving. Hinduism You have two cows. You worship them. Islam You believe in two cows. Your neighbour

Agnostic You claim it is impossible for anybody to be

believes in those same two cows, but in a barely different

certain how many cows you have.

fashion. You suicide-bomb his workplace, proving that

Anglicanism You have two cows. One cow decides

your system of beliefs is not at all irrational.

to break from the other cow's rule in order to initiate a

Methodist It's not so bad if you have two cows, as long

divorce. The only thing that is keeping the two cows

as you serve grape juice with them.

separate is the British Monarchy.

Mormonism

Atheism You have two cows, but they

They go away, learn a foreign

believe in God. You spend every available

language and give milk away for two

moment explaining to them how moronic

years. You pay for their trip and drink

they are, and attempting to prove God

powdered milk. After they come

doesn't exist.

back, you all have a meeting and

Calvinism

You are destined since

You have two cows.

serve jelly.

creation to have two cows

Nihilism You have two cows but it

Catholicism You have two cows. You suspect one of your

doesn't matter.

cows is Jewish, so you send it to be slaughtered.

Puritanism You have two cows. You may not look at them

Christian Science You having two cows is all in your

or touch them, or God will burn you in hell. You may not

mind.

think about drinking their milk, or God will burn you in hell.

Darwinism Your two cows evolved from ferrets.

You must labour to buy more cows (which you cannot

Existentialism How do you know you have two cows?

touch or milk), or God will burn you in hell.

All you have are unreliable memories and inconsistent

Quakers Let us not fight over these two cows.

experiences! Maybe they're my cows, did you ever think

Rastafarianism Let's smoke these cows!

 





 

Scientology You have two cows, but they will only give milk if you feed them megadoses of vitamins and keep them far away from psychiatrists. Sikhism

You have two cows.

You don't worship them like the

     

Hindus do. However, there is nothing wrong with the way Hindus worship their cows because all are equal and all paths lead to God. Zen Buddhism are not.

   A. M. P. A. R. E. The society for the protection of animals Ebro region. Based in Mora La Nova. We desperately need to re-home dogs to make room for more! We have over 200 dogs for adoption. Wendy 637 981158 English Isabel 977 404720 Spanish/ Catalan Donations always appreciated.

Cows are, and


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On e day a mu lt i billionaire was bored, so he asked his butler to get him 3 men. A f e w h o u r s l at e r t h e butler comes back. The m a n s ay s " O K I ' v e a d e a l you can't refuse. Who can swim successfully across this pool filed with sharks, eels, and leaches. The winner may have whatever his heat desires." No one replies so the man gives up. All of a sudden the man hears a splash. One of the men is swimming as fast as he can, dodging all the sharks, eels, and leaches. T h e b i l l i o n a i r e wa s s o i m p r e s s e d t h at s om e o n e h a d e noug h g u t s ta k e up his challenge. He congratulates the man and asks him what he wants. The man replies "I want the Son of a Bitch who pushed me in"

iiiiiii If a turtle doesn't have a shell, is he homeless or naked?

I was at a wedding reception when the DJ announced 'all the married men out there go and stand by the person who makes your life worth living'. The barman was crushed to death

16 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


LIVE PRESS

a o nd t nt re a les he e a I w ksto e s e's t ?" h n t o er bo ked "Wh ctio old as an, p se he t feat m hel if s de ! o w elf- id uld se s e sa o po r w Sh , it e pu me th

A man is stopped by the police around 1 am, and is asked where he is going at this time of night. The man replies, "I am going to a lecture about alcohol abuse and the effects it has on the human body". The officer then asks, "Really? Who is giving that lecture at this time of night?" The man replies. "My wife."

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MAJOR CATALUNYAN FIESTAS

I loc f you al f hav to p iesta y e a ou l a pag wi e fo ce on thi sh r Ju s n E-ma contacte please il

i prensfso.@the-o com live-

1st May Tossa de Mar Cruces de Mayo (Each Friday). Roses Fiestas de Roses (Each Friday) 3rd May Figueres Cruces de Mayo (Each Friday) 7th May Salomo Ball del Sant Crist Ulldecona La Passión Esparreguera La Pasión Sant Quintinde Mediona Sant Antoni de les Malalties Amer Festividad del Roser LLoret de Mar Aplec de Sardanas 11th May Badalona Fiesta de Sant Anastasi Ripoll Festa de la Llana y Casamen a Pagés 14th May Salomo Ball del Sant Crist (Salomó) Ulldecona La Pasió Corbera de LLobregat Aplec de san Ponc San Feliu de LLobregat Fiestas de Sant Feliu de Llobregat 15th May Alcanar Fiestas de Mayo Tarragona Corpus Christi Barcelona Corpus Christi Berga La Patum (Corpus Christi) Capellades Festes del Carrer (Corpus Christi) Sallent Enramades Sant Sadurni D’Anoia La Fiesta dels Barris Sitges Fiestas de Sitges Arbucies Corpus Christi

18th May Gombren Fiesta de los Abuelos 20th May Salomo Ball de Sant Crist El Port de La Selva Fiesta de Sant Baldiri 27th May Salomo Ball del Sant Crist Talamanca Festa del Terme 31st May Gombren Festa del Comú

18 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


The world has been placed on a homeopathic bomb heightened security alert can it be true following reports that New Age terrorists have harnessed the power of homeopathy for evil. ‘Homeopathic weapons represent a major threat to world peace,’ said President Barack Obama, ‘they might not cause any actual damage but the placebo effect could be quite devastating.’ The H2O-bomb has been developed by the radical New Age group, The Axis of Aquarius. In a taped message to the world, their leader, Professor Hubert Pennington, said: ‘For too long the New Age movement has been dismissed as a bunch of beardy weirdy cranks and charlatans. But now we have weapons-grade homeopathy and we demand to be taken seriously.’ Homeopathic bombs are comprised of 99.9% water but contain the merest trace element of explosive. The solution is then repeatedly diluted so as to leave only the memory of the explosive in the water molecules. According to the laws of homeopathy, the more that the water is diluted, the more powerful the bomb becomes. ‘It was only a matter of time before these people got hold of the material that they needed to make these bombs,’ said former UN weapons inspector, Hans Blix, ‘The world is a much more dangerous place with the advent of these Weapons of Mass Dilution.’'A homeopathic attack could bring entire cities to a standstill,' said BBC Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner, 'Large numbers of people could easily become convinced that they have been killed and hospitals would be unable to cope with the massive influx of the ‘walking suggestible’.’ The severity of the situation has already resulted in the New Age terror threat level being raised from ‘lilac’ to the more worrisome ‘purple’ aura. Meanwhile, new security measures at airports require that all water bottles be scanned to ensure that they are not being used to smuggle the memory of an explosion on board a plane. ‘Homeopathic weapons are the ultimate Smart Bombs,’ warned President Obama, ‘They are so smart that they only affect the gullible. The only defence is for everyone to remain calm, vigilant and to always wear a magic vibrating crystal.’ New Age terrorists develop

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19


JABBERWOCKY

Came whiffling through the tulgey wood, And burbled as it came!

Lewis Carroll (from Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There, 1872)

`Twas brillig, and the slithy toves Did gyre and gimble in the wabe: All mimsy were the borogoves, And the mome raths outgrabe. "Beware the Jabberwock, my son! The jaws that bite, the claws that catch! Beware the Jubjub bird, and shun The frumious Bandersnatch!" He took his vorpal sword in hand: Long time the manxome foe he sought -So rested he by the Tumtum tree, And stood awhile in thought. And, as in uffish thought he stood, The Jabberwock, with eyes of flame,

One, two! One, two! And through and through The vorpal blade went snicker-snack! He left it dead, and with its head He went galumphing back. "And, has thou slain the Jabberwock? Come to my arms, my beamish boy! O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!' He chortled in his joy. `Twas brillig, and the slithy toves Did gyre and gimble in the wabe; All mimsy were the borogoves, And the mome raths outgrabe

20 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


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21


Maybe, The Greatest Political mistake of all time (Not counting the EU of course!) Message from Pontius Pilate in Judea to Tiberius Caesar in Rome; We have this guy running around Judea stirring up people and telling them everyone should treat everyone else as neighbours and love your enemies. This religious fanatic could pose a security risk to the Empire

Tiberius to Pilate: Weve got this Jewish holiday coming up, Passover I think they call it.The guy is getting his disciples together for a supper or something on Friday.Our inside man says he’s going to make some important announcement. Should we grab him before the supper or after?

Tiberius to Pilate: Impose a state of emergency in Jerusalem. Require all gatherings to have to apply for a permit.Dont grant any permits.Do not let large groups of people gather to hear this radical leader.

Tiberius to Pilate: Pick him up after supper, hold a show trial, parade him through the city, and nail him to a cross.

Pilate to Tiberius: We tried that but the movement keeps growing. This guy is dangerous.People are claiming he takes stones and turns them into loaves of bread,walks on water and raises dead people back to life.Our conidential informant says many people think the guy is the Messiah. Tiberius to Pilate: Arrest him and his leadership group. Pilate to Tiberius;Are you sure?This is only going to stir things up even more.We could make martyrs out of them.If we ignore them maybe they’ll just fade away. Tiberius to Pilate: Do I have to send someone rom Rome to do the job.Cut off the head of the snake.

A few days later..... Pilate to Tiberius: OK We did that. Threw in a couple of theives as well. But three days later the guy’s body disappeared and now everyone is saying the guy was `resurrected” and went to live with God up in Heaven and all of us are being saved. Tiberius to Pilate: Don’t worry..this will blow over and no one will remember the guy in a few years and things will go back to normal. What was his name by the way? Pilate to Tiberius: Jesus Christ...I never asked!!

Pilate to Tiberius: OK so we arrest the leader.Then what do we do? I’d like to put him on a slave galley.

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www.catalan-connect.com info@catalan-connect.com Tel: 667 917 458

"New built villa with great views close to Reus Castellmoster" Ref. 14101 villa with pool and ready to move in with 450 sqm living area (total area: 900 sqm) located in Reus (Tarragona) offered for: 590,000 € "House with pool and sea view in Sant Cebria near Sant Pol de Mar" Ref. 14886 ready to move in with 80 sqm living area (total area: 800 sqm) located in Sant Cebrià de Vallalta (Barcelona) offered for: 269,000 €

"Nice sea view villa in Segur de Dalt close Barcelona" Ref. 13780 house with pool and ready to move in with 175 sqm living area (total area: 870 sqm) located in Calafell (Tarragona) offered for: 450,000 € "Peaceful country house close to the sea, Sitges and Barcelona" Ref. 14841 rural property ready to move in with 260 sqm living area (total area: 5,000 sqm) located in Vilanova i la Geltrú (Barcelona) offered for: 550,000 €

"Townhouse in Sitges, Quint Mar" Ref. 14784 house with pool and ready to move in with 205 sqm living area located in Sitges (Barcelona) offered for: 375,000 €

"Villa with Pool in Olivella near Sitges" Ref. 14783 villa with pool and ready to move in with 260 sqm living area (total area: 809 sqm) located in Olivella (Barcelona) offered for: 362,390 €

"Town house in Sant Pere de Ribes near Sitges and Barcelona" Ref. 14746 house ready to move in with 122 sqm living area located in Sant Pere de Ribes (Barcelona) offered for: 360,000 €

"Sunny designer house with great sea views – Palafolls – Costa Brava" Ref. 14734 house ready to move in with 170 sqm living area (total area: 1,800 sqm) located in Sant Genis de Palafolls (Barcelona) offered for: 620,000 €

24 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


"Ideal commuters - family home close to Barcelona" Ref. 14407 house with pool and ready to move in 250 sqm living area (total area: 1,000 sqm) located in Sant Pere de Vilamajor (Barcelona) offered for: 325,000 € "Large Masia Restaurant with hostel close to Moia" Ref. 13768 hotel / commercial ready to move in with 2400 sqm living area (total area: 8,039 sqm) located in Moia (Barcelona) offered for: 750,000 € "SALE PRICE half of a partly modernised original masiaEspolla" Ref. 14803 rural property partly to renovate located in Espolla (Girona) offered for:550,000€

"Apartment in Tossa de Mar centre next to the beach" Ref. 14790 apartment ready to move in with 56 sqm living area located in Tossa de Mar (Girona) offered for: 160,000 € "Beautiful modern duplex penthouse with enormous terrace (120sqm) & panoramic views of sea/mountain Roses" Ref. 14671 apartment ready to move in with 100 sqm living area (total area: 220 sqm) located in Roses (Girona) offered for:285,000 € "Penthouse with pool and sea view in Montroig del Camp" Ref. 14805 apartment with pool and ready to move in with 55 sqm living area located in MontRoig del Camp (Tarragona) offered for: 125,000 €

"Calm family home with beautiful garden close to Barcelona" Ref. 13816 house with pool and ready to move in with 380 sqm living area (total area: 1,530 sqm) located in Santa Maria de Palautordera (Barcelona) offered for: 300,000 € "Refurbished 3 bedroomed house with 6.25m mooring -Empuriabrava" Ref. 14848 house ready to move in with 100 sqm living area (total area: 284 sqm) located in Empuriabrava (Girona) offered for:395,000 € "Attractive modern villa with pool, walking distance of centre-Palau" Ref. 14800 villa with pool and ready to move in with 180 sqm living area (total area: 806 sqm) located in Palau (Girona) offered for: 425,000 € "Great opportunity to purchase a large village house requiring complete refurbishment Garriguella" Ref. 14721 house for restoration with 240 sqm living area (total area: 360 sqm) located in Garriguella (Girona) offered for: 190,000 € "SALE PRICEbeautiful, totally refurbished house, 50m from the beach-Llança" Ref. 14636 house ready to move in with 250 sqm living area located in Llançà (Girona) offered for: 370,650 € "House with sea view in El Vendrell, 40 minutes from Barcelona" Ref. 14686 house ready to move in with 160 sqm living area (total area: 436 sqm) located in El Vendrell (Tarragona) offered for: 250,000 €

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25


Lonely hearts Men seeking Woman “M WLTM F 4” “Not particularly fussy Sitges man would like to meet woman for loads of fun and possibly sex (unless post-op)” Box32 Gracia man, early 50s, NSOH, seeks 20-something woman for dog, er, walking. Box 52. G r a c i a p r o f e s s i o n a l b a c h e l o r, 2 9 , i s i t w o r t h mentioning premature baldness? No, probably not, leave that bit out. Seeks non-judgemental woman 25-35, NS with GSOH. Box 19.

Women seeking Men Yo u n g p r o f e s s i o n a l B o r n e w o m a n , 25(ish), GSOH, seeks athletic man with own car who can iron linen. Box 55. Recently widowed Poble Nou woman, 33, seeks fifth husband. Preferably one that won’t die in a bizarre fashion, the police are beginning to get suspicious. Box 8. Poble Sec woman, 29, GSOH / NSOH, depending on day of month, brunette, WLTM man with a stab proof vest, preferably early 30s. Box 27.

Sitges man with one leg called Donald (the other is called Adrian), recently divorced, aged 62, GSOH, loves walking with Donald and Adrian, seeks recently widowed woman with differently named legs. Box 2. Alcoholic Borne man, 44, seeks woman who doesn’t mind being knocked about a bit after a night d r i n k i n g h e a v i l y. W o u l d like to meet a masochist. No more self-defence teachers, please. Box 12. Farmer, 45, seeks woman who knows how to handle a combine harvester and can milk a cow. Age and looks irrelevant, as I’m no oil painting. Box 77. Bachelor, 41, seeks woman for fun and frolics and flat sharing so I can get away from my mother. I can cook and clean, just give me a chance. Must like memorising IP addresses. Box 11

26 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


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T

sticky ribs with greek salad This months recipe is so tasty, and with a refreshing salad on the side which compliments it to perfection. enjoy.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8): 1.5g pork spare ribs 2 cinnamon quills 2 star anise 2L (8 cups) Coca Cola soft drink ½ firmly packed cup (125g) brown sugar ¼ cup (60ml) maple syrup ½ cup (125ml) tomato sauce 2 tbsp Dijon mustard 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce Preheat oven to 160°C. Line 2 large roasting pans with foil. Divide ribs, cinnamon and star anise between pans and pour 3 cups (750ml) coca cola into each pan. Cover with foil and roast for 1 ½ hours or until the meat is tender and cooked through. Meanwhile, place remaining 2 cups (500ml) coca cola and remaining ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring, for 5-6 minutes until syrupy and reduced. Set glaze aside. Remove ribs from the over, discarding the cooking liquid. Place ribs on a roasting tray, set over a clean roasting pan. Using a pastry brush, coat ribs with glaze. Roast for 15 minutes, then turn over and baste with more glaze. Cook ribs, turning and basting every 15 minutes, for a further 45 minutes or until dark and sticky Ingredients 150g/5oz feta, diced ½ red onion, sliced finely

And the salad

50g/2oz black Kalamata olives 3 medium tomatoes, diced into 2cm/¾in cubes 1 cucumber peeled, diced into 2cm/¾in cubes 1 small, firm cos lettuce, chopped into rough cubes lengthways 1 generous sprig of oregano (or 2 tbsp dried oregano) 50ml/3 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 red pepper, de-seeded, diced 100ml/3fl oz extra virgin olive oil Preparation method

he symbolism of the maypole has been continuously debated by folklorists for centuries, although no set conclusion has ever been arrived at.

Some scholars classify maypoles as symbols of the world axis (axis mundi). The fact that they were found primarily in areas of Germanic Europe, where, prior to Christianisation, Germanic paganism was followed in various forms, has led to speculation that the maypoles were in some way a continuation of a Germanic pagan tradition. One theory holds that they were a remnant of the Germanic reverence for sacred trees, as there is evidence for various sacred trees and wooden pillars that were venerated by the pagans across much of Germanic E u r o p e , including Thor's Oak and the Irminsul It is also known that, in Norse paganism, which is the best attested form of Germanic paganism,cosmological views held that the universe was a world tree, known as Yggdrasil There is therefore speculation that the maypole was in some way a continuance of this tradition. Others have viewed them as having phallic symbolism, an idea which was purported by Thomas Hobbes, who erroneously believed that the poles dated back to the Romanworship of the god Priapus. This notion has been supported by various figures since, including the psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud. Phallic symbolism has been attributed to the maypole in the later Early Modern period, as one sexual reference is in John Cleland's controversial novel Fanny Hill: ...and now, disengag'd from the shirt, I saw, with wonder and surprise, what? not the play-thing of a boy, not the weapon of a man, but a maypole of so enormous a standard, that had proportions been observ'd, it must have belong'd to a young giant.[7] The anthropologist Mircea Eliade theorizes that the maypoles were simply a part of the general rejoicing at the return of summer, and the growth of new vegetation. In this way, they bore similarities with the May Day garlands which were also a common festival practice in Britain and Ireland

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl

30 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


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INCOME TAX FOR FOREIGN PROPERTY OWNERS

Foreign nationals who are not registered for tax in Spain but own property in the country must submit a tax declaration for their income tax to the state tax office every year. This involves the so-called Impuesto de la Renta de No Residentes (Income Tax for Non-residents). Many property owners do not understand why they must declare and pay tax in Spain even though they earn no income here because they only come here for holidays and therefore neither work nor are involved in any economic activities or receive interest from banks on financial investments. There is usually no rental income from property either. Despite this, in Spain (much like in other European countries), simply owning a property is regarded as income, even when the property is not let or leased out. The state tax system assumes that a profit is made from the property even if it is not rented out, it is not the own home or if the property is not dedicated to economic activity, which for non-residents can never be the case. How is this fictitious return calculated? Spanish law stipulates that income earned from the simple possession of a property equates to a certain percentage of its cadastral value. This percentage is either 2% or 1.1%, depending on the year in which the Spanish Land Registry (or rather, the respective municipality), updated its property values.

The Land Registry (Catastro) is a national register of properties, answerable to the Spanish tax office, which gives the authorities information about these properties (owners, size, use, year of construction, boundaries, etc.). The information stored at the Land Registry can be submitted by Land Registry officials themselves, the municipalities or the owners of the property. One of the most important pieces of information on every property is in fact the cadastral value. This value is dependent on many other objective details and here on the coast can generally be a lot lower than the market price that we would set for the property. Despite this, this objective value is decisive for almost all authorities and provides the basis for many taxes, including income tax for non-residents. This percentage of the cadastral value is therefore the basis for income tax for non-residents, which is currently 24%. Every year, the owners must pay the resulting sum by 31 December the following year. This means that foreigners who own a property in 2011 must submit their tax declaration to the tax office and pay the tax by 31 December, 2012. In 2008, the tax office changed the forms for this declaration, which caused problems for many foreigners who did not hear about this amendment in time. Until then, Form 214 was used, but now Form 210 must be completed. The change was a consequence of recent tax reforms, which saw the abolition of property tax. However, the tax for non-residents was retained because it is regarded as a form of income tax rather than a property tax. Otherwise, for non-residents there are only the local rates, the so-called IBI, which are paid as a municipal tax that every municipality demands from property owners each year and which is calculated and demanded by the local authority itself. CARLOS PRIETO CID www.tarracoiuris-abogados.com

32 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


A POTTED HISTORY OF GIRONA

The first historical inhabitants in the region were Iberians; Girona is the ancient Gerunda, a city of the Ausetani. Later, the Romans built a citadel there, which was given the name of Gerunda. The Visigoths ruled in Girona until it was conquered by the Moors. Finally, Charlemagne reconquered it in 785 and made it one of the fourteen original countships of Catalonia. Thus it was wrested temporarily from the Moors, who were driven out finally in 1015. Wilfred the Hairy incorporated Girona to the countship of Barcelona in 878. Alfonso I of Arag贸n declared Girona to be a city in the 11th century. The ancient countship later became a duchy (1351) when King Peter III of Aragon gave the title of Duke to his firstborn son, John. In 1414, King Ferdinand I in turn gave the title of Prince of Girona to his first-born son, Alfonso. The title is currently carried by Prince Felipe, Prince of Asturias, the first since the 16th century to do so. The 12th century saw a flourishing of the Jewish community of Girona, with one of the most important Kabbalistic schools in Europe. The Rabbi of Girona, Moshe ben Nahman Gerondi (better known as Nahmanides or Ramban) was appointed Great Rabbi of Catalonia. The history of the Jewish community of Girona ended in 1492, when the Catholic Kings expelled all the Jews from Catalonia. Today, the Jewish ghetto or Call is one of the best preserved in Europe and is a major tourist attraction. On the north side of the old city is the Montju茂c (or hill of the Jews in medieval Catalan), where an important religious cemetery was located. Girona has undergone twenty-five sieges and been captured seven times. It was besieged by the French royal armies under Charles de Monchy d'Hocquincourt in 1653, under Bernardin Gigault de Bellefonds in 1684, and twice in 1694 under Anne Jules de Noailles. In May 1809, it was besieged by 35,000 French Napoleonic troops under Vergier, Augereau and St. Cyr, and held out obstinately under the leadership of Alvarez until disease and famine compelled it to capitulate on the 12thof December. Finally, the French conquered the city in 1809, after 7 months of siege. Girona was centre of the Ter department during the French rule, which lasted from 1809 to 1813. The defensive city walls were demolished at the end of the 19th century to allow for the expansion of the city. In recent years, the missing parts of the city walls on the eastern side of the city have been reconstructed. Called the Passeig de la Muralla it now forms a tourist route around the old city.

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33


GETTING ON TOP OF THE WEEDS

May is always a busy month in the flower and vegetable garden as well as the orchard. Often the month starts with heavy rainfall so one important task is to keep on top of the weeds that sprout up as temperatures are just right for germination. However do, if possible, avoid using weed killers as there are some ecological alternatives as illustrated below.

TEN ECOLOGICAL WAYS OF CONTROLLING WEEDS

1. Give windblown seeds less chance to germinate and grow into mature plants by planting your flowering plants more closely and make more use of ground cover plants. There are some twenty seven to choose from in section 4.4 of ‘Your Garden in Spain – From planning to planting and maintenance’. 2. Plant trees through black plastic covered with five centimetres of attractive stone chippings. 3. On the vegetable plot plant onions, tomatoes, peppers, squashes through holes in black plastic sheeting to suppress the weeds and conserve moisture. Strawberries are also best grown in the same way. 4. Recognise that chick weed is loved by pet cage birds such as budgerigars and chickens. 5. Likewise dandelion plants are loved by laying hens and by rabbits if first sun dried. 6. All green stuff is excellent for the compost heap so strim large areas and rake up the cuttings and also compost all weeds hand weeded or hoed in the vegetable and flower gardens.

7. The number of shepherds with flocks of sheep or goats is on a rapid decrease in Spain so imported meat is on the rise. So why not ensure your annual Easter lamb or kid by keeping the weeds in the orchard down with a few sheep or goats. 8. Nettle plants are valuable to the eco gardener for they can be turned into a valuable fertiliser by putting in a barrel of water for two or three weeks. Also a cooled infusion is an excellent feed and mild insecticide for fruit trees. As explained in our book ‘Growing Healthy Fruit in Spain’ we use a cocktail of nettle, neem and propolis on our fruit trees including our olive grove. Borage also makes a good fertilizer steeped in water. 9. Use solid rather than woven plastic under all areas of stone chippings. This prevents even strong perennial weeds from growing and also allows you to channel rain water to where most required in the garden. 10. Cover undeveloped areas of the garden or unplanted areas of the vegetable plot with old carpets or plastic sheeting until you are ready to work on those areas. Such actions are not only safer than the use of strong chemical weed killers to your family, pets and wild life but they will save you money and reduce the time required for maintaining a weed free garden. © Clodagh and Dick Handscombe May 2012.

Our books each include many other practical and economic ideas for improving your gardens in an ecological manner. *Clodagh and Dicks best selling books are ‘Your Garden in Spain’, ‘Growing Healthy Vegetables in Spain’, 'Apartment Gardening Mediterranean Style' and ‘ Growing Healthy Fruit in Spain’. If you are not near a bookshop they can be ordered by telephone on 952-485838 or via the internet. If you have never looked at the book descriptions on www.gardeninginspain. com do so now There is a free offer of our latest book ‘Living Well from Our Mediterranean Garden’.

34 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


Want to feel happier living in Spain? Take independent financial planning advice from the experts. We analyse your situation, give you insight into how to organise your affairs, give you answers and advice. To start with a no obligation discussion, email barry.davys@spectrum-ifa.com or telephone 645 257 525 www.expatfinancialadvicespain.com The Spectrum IFA Group is a registered trademark, exclusive rights to use in Spain granted to Baskerville Advisers S.L. CIF B-63/137.020 CorredurĂ­a de Seguros; No de registro RDGS J2306; Paseo de Gracia 63, principal, 2a,08008, Barcelona.

Seguro responsabilidad civil Chartis Europe No 0131900503.1330 Registro Mercantil de Barcelona, Tomo 35489, Folio 170, Seccion 8, Hoja B-269534

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35


Cédula de habitabilidad update Bon día to all, and hope you are coping with the mad Spring weather! Sunshine, rain, wind, hail and sometimes even snow, Costa Dorada old-timers will know that at this time of year, you can expect anything. This Spring finally sees a welcome and long overdue change to the Catalan law that governs the issue of the cédula de habitabilidad, the habitation/occupancy certificate. When a property is described at the Land Registry as a dwelling —for rural-zoned properties this includes viviendas, casas, casas de campo, casitas de campo and masias— the cédula is essential for the sale. It’s generally needed for connecting mains services, and is often a requirement for a mortgage. Obtaining one for an urbanzoned apartamento or townhouse is usually simple. The property needs to be on the Land Registry and the Catastro tax register, and an architect or aparejador (surveyor/technical architect) has to certify that it is habitable. However, since the end of 2009, getting the cédula for rural-zoned dwellings has become problematic to say the least. As owners of rural dwellings often don’t have original building licences and end-of-work certificates, issue has effectively been limited to houses built before 1984. A key requirement has been a certificate from the local council, certifying —among other points— that the house had a licence for a dwelling (unusual in rural areas) or was already a dwelling before 1984. While some ajuntaments seemed to have no problem certifying the last point, others have refused to. As a consequence, many homeowners who bought houses that were correctly registered, with full assurances from their lawyers and notary, have been unable to sell their properties. Fortunately, as of this April this has now changed. The cédula de habitabilidad has reverted to its sole original function: to certify that a property is habitable and fit for occupation. What are the main changes? - The municipal certificate is no longer required. - It is now possible to get a cédula for rural-zoned houses built since 1984, without having to produce building licences and end-of-work certificates. In these cases, the cédula will include a note stating ‘this document guarantees habitability but not legality’*, but it will be perfectly valid for selling the property and connecting services. - It is necessary to certify the age of the house. This can be done via the existing Land Registry or Catastro description, or if this is not available or is unclear, via a visado-stamped certificate from an architect or aparejador. * In any case, prospective buyers usually verify legality independently. These changes have just come into effect, and it may take time for the application and issue system to run smoothly. But it looks like for the majority of rural home owners in Catalonia, the end of the cédula nightmare is finally in sight. By the way, I still have buyers looking for fincas with casitas/casas de campo of 60m2 or more to refurbish but not in ruins, with nice views and preferably priced below 60.000 Euros, in the l’AmetllaEl Perelló-l’Ampolla area. Feel free to email me at jeff@fincasdirect.com. Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/ Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986. While the points contained in this article are true to best of our knowledge, they do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press. Please use this information responsibly and seek professional legal advice if in doubt.

36 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


Here we go gathering nuts in May.

The rhyme is first recorded by Alice Gomme in The Traditional Games of England, Scotland and Ireland (1894-8). It is a variant of "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush", with which it shares a tune and closing line As nuts are not gathered in England in May, it is thought that the lyrics could be a corruption of "knots of may", referring to the blossom of the common hawthorn

Spain-UK-Spain Fortnightly Service

Single Item to Full House move Do your online UK Shopping (Tesco,Asda,Argos etc.) delivered to our UK address and then to your door in Spain Motorbike Movements with Full Bike Insurance email jasonpettman71@hotmail.com Tel 0044 7930243407

OLIVE 66X92-trazado.indd 1

18/04/12 16:45

LEADING SPECIALISTS IN SATELLITE TV AND AUDIOVISUAL Established for over 12 years in Catalunya supplying and installing UK and European TV in private homes, restaurants, bars and hotels.

UNMATCHED ON QUALITY AND RELIABILITY! NEW! Your favourite UK TV channels including all sports and films over the internet and no dish needed. (email us for complete channel list) Call the experts for a free quotation, special offers and friendly advice to ensure you choose the package to suit your needs and budget. We are well known for our unrivalled after sales

service. All equipment guaranteed. English and Spanish spoken

T: 938 459 874 M. 649 413 832 enquiries@easisat.net www.easisat.net

aul and his team at Easisat have been P supplying and installing UK and European satellite TV and audiovisual here in Catalunya and in Andorra for over 12 years. Being specialists in the field, they have installed in private homes, restaurants, bars and hotels throughout and can provide any installations from basic freesat, (no monthly payments), to HD, motorised dishes and even dual language TV with just one dish; ie: you can receive English and French channels with only one satellite receiver and one dish on your roof. Easisat are the leaders in new innovations, the latest being able to view UK TV channels via internet without the need for a satellite dish. Their installations are efficient and with minimal disruption and their after sales service is unrivalled. They understand what it is like to live in Spain and want to view TV channels of your home country and they can provide that personal service ensuring you choose the package to suit your needs and your budget, always aiming to please. So if you need to have UK viewing or to upgrade your existing satellite system to view the Olympics in HD, Call them for a 'no obligation' friendly chat or just for advice on options available and special offers. Tel: 938 459 874 M. 649 413 832 e-mail: enquiries@easisat.net

www.easisat.net

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37


Your wealth in Spain should be working harder than you might think. Take a look at this guide and unlock your financial potential. Anyone living in Spain and indeed anywhere as an expatriate, or somebody planning to leave the UK, can now transfer their existing personal or occupational pension schemes into a QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pensions Scheme). The benefits to the pension holder are excellent and should be taken advantage of at the earliest opportunity. The reasons to transfer to a QROPS inlcude tax free income and withdrawal benefits, nomination of beneficiaries on death, larger than in the UK tax free lump sums, now upto 70% and removal of the need to always purchase an annuity (your yearly pension payment). • No need to purchase an annuity. • Leave unused pension funds to your beneficiaries free of tax at source. • Much greater investment flexibility. • Tax free lump sums larger than under UK rules, even if you have already taken 25% lump sum from your pension in the UK. • Guaranteed income bonds providing higher pension growth. • Take income from your pension in a much more tax efficient way and avoid UK restrictions on your income. Continental Wealth Management is an industry leading IFA based in Spain, France and Portugal, with over 25 years experience in the financial services sector. Our aim is to maximise your wealth and help you achieve your financial goals by getting more from your expatatriate status and unlocking the potential of your wealth, assets and pensions. We can help you transfer to QROPS providers that are HM Revenue & Customs approved, as well as handling all aspects of investment portfolios and wealth management. If at anytime you need to speak to one of our specialist advisers then we are here to help. You can contact us without obligation or charge and in total confidence you will receive impartial, expert advice.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON YOUR UK PERSONAL PENSION OR OCCUPATIONAL PENSION

If you are not yet drawing your UK personal pension or occupational pension you can transfer to a qualifying overseas scheme and receive an immediate tax free lump sum. QROPS transfers are the best way to unlock the potential of your pension but you need to get the right advice from the right people. If you would like the best return on your pensions and an immediate tax free lump sum call Continental Wealth Management.

Interested in finding out more? Simply contact Dean Stogsdill on

966 46 2875 / 665 362 944 or via email on

dean.stogsdill@continentalwealth.com

38 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


Travel Insurance for people living in Spain Globelink have been providing specialist Travel Insurance policies for many years and offer a unique combination of personal service, sensible cover and security including a 24 hour multi-lingual emergency service. This enables you to relax and enjoy your holiday with the comfort of knowing that you will be looked after by experts if things go wrong. Travel Insurance cover used to be a problem for Brits living in Spain. Most UK insurers will only offer cover if you live in UK, and Spanish insurers provide very restricted cover at an enormous premium. That’s all changed. Globelink International is a UK based Travel Insurance specialist Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority and Approved by EU Regulators. Globelink have become the leading provider of Annual Multi Trip policies and also Single Trip cover for people living in all EU countries. The policy is written in English and the premiums are the same irrespective of which country you live. It is not necessary for you to have formal residential documents In view of recent events, we believe that our clients should be insured for Emergency Medical Expenses and Repatriation should they be injured as a result of a terrorist attack and our underwriters have agreed to include this cover. In practice this means that we will provide the necessary medical assistance required in the event that an insured person is inadvertently injured as a result of a terrorist action. Cover for many pre-existing medical conditions are included, others may require you to make a quick telephone call to ensure that you will be insured in the event of a re-occurrence, or in case it causes you to cancel a pre-booked holiday, if you have a Pre-Existing Medical Condition you can either accept that the policy will not cover you for claims related to

that particular condition, or you can speak to Globelink’s Medical Screening Service who may or may not agree to include additional cover for an extra premium depending upon their assessment of the additional risk. Most hazardous activities are covered as standard and higher risk activities can often be included for an extra charge.

A full list of activities is given on our website www.globelink.co.uk Globelink Annual Multi Trip policies give cover for an unlimited number of trips with a choice of cover for Worldwide or Europe only. You can select from policies giving a maximum individual trip duration of 17, 31 , 45 , 60 , 90 or 120 days. This is reduced to a maximum of 60 days for people aged 66 to 71 and 31 days if you are aged between 71 and 74. Policies for single trips are available for periods from 1 day to 15 months, but only up to 6 months for people aged from 66 to 84. Remember, If you live in Spain your Travel Insurance might be invalid if it does not cover the entire duration of your return trip from the date you leave Spain until the date you arrive back in Spain. For an instant quote and to arrange cover securely online, enabling you to print your policy documents immediately, by visiting

www.globelink.co.uk or you can telephone Globelink on 00 44 1353 699082 or their Spanish link line on 966 265 000. By David Deverson Travel Insurance correspondent Globelink International. Email your travel insurance questions to david@globelink.co.uk

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39


spanglish?-answers next month 1.

2.

3.

7.

4.

5.

6.

16.

17.

8.

9.

10. 11.

12.

14.

13.

15.

18.

19. 20.

21.

23.

22.

24.

spanglish?-April answers

How to Solve Sudoku Puzzles Sudoku doesn't require any special math skills or calculations. It is a simple and fun game of logic -- all that's needed is brains and concentration. 1. Fill the grid so that the numbers 1 through 9 appear in each row. 2. Fill the grid so that the numbers 1 through 9 appear in each column. 3. Fill the grid so that the numbers 1 through 9 appear in each 3x3 box. 4. A complete Sudoku puzzle contains the numbers 1 through 9 in every row, column, and 3x3 box. This month, one thats medium. good luck

40 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


Press Release Eighth Family Fun-Run – Sunday 6th May 2012 On Sunday, 8th May, the Freesia Group (Raising money for cancer charities in Spain) celebrates its eighth Family Fun-Run in the capital of the Costa Daurada – the family holiday resort of Salou. In collaboration with the local Town Hall, Tourism Office, local, regional and national businesses we aim to increase the amount raised in 2012 (5,000€). Over 800 runners completed the 4km and 10km courses, combining a mixture of serious runners from local running clubs plus many families and youngsters. Some even came in fancy dress and put the ‘fun’ into the run whilst raising money for a worthy cause. The setting couldn’t have been more perfect – golden beaches and a superb climate. In fact, a great day out for all the family! The 2012 Family Fun-Run starts at 10am at the Statue of Jaime 1 in the Paseo Jaime 1, Salou (in front of McDonalds). The distances to run are 4km and 10km. The entry fee is 12€ (4km) and (10km) for adults and 8€ for children under 12. Our target this year is 1,000 runners, so fill in your entry form on-line as soon as possible (starts on 01.04.12), it’s very simple to pay, have your credit card handy. BOOK ON-LINE AT www.freesiagroup.com -

Before 20.00 04.05.12

How to pick up your number:On the day of the run from 08.00 to 09.15- Please check out your runners number at the central area and pick it up with you T-Shirt at the corresponding entries desk. Don’t forget to download a sponsor form to get all of your friends and family involved – return it on the day of the run to the Freesia Group information desk. To enter on the day of the Fun Run - 20€ (4km) and (10km) and 10€ for children under 12 please go to the NEW RUNNERS table before 09.15. Every runner will receive a high quality, technical, commemorative t-shirt. The winners (1st,2nd,3rd) of each category will take home a commemorative cup. There are refreshments for all runners plus a bar and BBQ for the spectators. Our aim is to raise money for cancer charities in Spain so we urge entrants to encourage family, friends, colleagues, etc., to sponsor them, either for every km completed or for the run. More information and entry/sponsor forms can be obtained from our website – www.freesiagroup.com Should you wish to make a donation or pay in sponsor money, the bank details are as follows (or bring it to the Freesia Group information desk on the day). La Caixa, “Carrera Popular, Grupo Freesia” - 2100 1148 79 0200164742 More information from local bars, restaurants, businesses, sporting organisations etc:Salou: Sports Pavillion (across from the Town Hall) Pub Double Scotch, C/Escala dei, off C/ Barcelona Pub The Barrels, c/Penedes (Opp Hotel san Diego) Virginia Bay Sports Shop, C/ Barcelona, 11 OR C/ Valencia, 22 Reus: Armobal Fondistas, C/ Cambrils, 4 (in front of the Ford garage) Tarragona: Runnersworld, C/ Salvador Espriu, 26 (exit for ITV A7/ Via Augusta) Pamies Sports Shop, C/ de Lleida, 22 Website: www.freesiagroup.com Email: carrerapopular@freesiagroup.com Info: Elaine - (00 34) 619 637 795 / eirescot@terra.es Salou Sports Pavillion 977 309 211 (Spanish only)

SALOU’S 8th FAMILY FUN RUN – “RUNNING 4 LIFE” Further to the article `HONEST LIVING` in last months Olive Press, my wife and I experienced similar problems. We feel the police were over zealous in their dealings with the public. We know they have a sometimes difficult job to do but a little humour and politeness would have been appreciated. It felt more like a serious drugs/arms raid as people were bodily searched for no apparent reason. Let’s hope these raids will not deter people from attending what has been a well organised and pleasant few hours Sunday browsing. Because there is a crisis in Spain not everyone can buy new goods, therefore carboot sales are a good idea.

CAR BOOT SALES / MERCADILLO Sunday/Domingo, MAYO 13th & 27th 10am till 6pm Antiques-Moble's-Furniture - fridges - cookers - pictures - pots, pans & old tin cans - you name it and we will get it.

Car Park Free, to Look Free and Stalls 5 EUROS! no food or drinks without permission

At Mora Caravans C12, km 61 Mora La Nova to Ginestar road Call Ken or Bev on 977 400 375 or 659 418 317 or 660 584 222

NOTE to Buyers & Sellers We at Mora Caravans have the right to refuse entry.

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41


personal classifieds

WANTED 35mm, Slide projector c/w cartridges best cash paid for working order. Tel 628 283 861 L’Ametlla de Mar. WANTED VOLUNTEERS | help needed to look after the

ANIMALS Home urgently needed

for our six year old 'Dolly'. She is intelligent, loyal and loving. She is spayed, chipped and innoculated. If you have a kind, loving home to offer her, please contact

Roger or Kathy on 693869395 or 636243405.

abandon dogs at ARCA near Tortosa. Please call Mave 678 975 816 if you can offer any assistance. Plus anyone interested in organising some fund raising for the dogs would be must appreciated. PLEASE HELP

GENERAL FOR SALE 36 x 12 mobile home 3 bedrooms with 1 ensuite shower

GOOD HOME WANTED | for 3 medium sized loving

and wc, a separate shower and wc, air conditioning, in

dogs,18 months old. Mob 626 857 963

excellent condition, sleeps 8 , 6500 euros. tel: 676185395

WANTED YOUR UNWANTED BIRDS budgies parrots etc will be given a good home tel 686299730

Splash Pool 3 metre diameter with filter pump new in box 120 Euros, Tel 642 243 711.

DOGS TO GOOD HOMES...Chico is 1 1/2 and his son, Bruce, is 7 months. Both are good guard dogs and well

3x sliding mirror doors with tracks each door 800cm x 2225

tempered & intelligent. they are both Catalan sheepdogs.

cm 75 Euros. patio doors plastic and aluminium 1980h x

chico has been castrated. They get along very well but we

1800w 50 Euros please phone evenings 977059851

would separate them to the right homes. If people would like to telephone me, I can email photos etc. Tel 638 845 837

New corner log burner with flue, never been used 275 Euros Tel 638 057 265.

Good home wanted for 6 months old cross llasa apso, lovely little dog (male) unfortunately i have to move back to UK and

Hot Tub / Spa 7 seats requires slight attention all parts

can’t take him. Tel 633819322 (Mora la nova)

available 50 Euro phone 964 412 764 Buyer Collects Butsir gas fridge freezer. Good, clean working order. 275

We are looking for a good home for a 3year old cross

euros. Please call 656428568 for more details.

weimaraner/spanish hunting dog (bitch) she is chocolate brown and is good with children and male dogs but

Roga 420 olympic sailing dinghy and road trailer.

unfortunately does not get along with our other bitches , if

paddles and lifejackets included.

you are interested and would like more info

100 euros ono. Must sell. 977265208 / 639836604

Tel 610324550 (Mora la nova)

17 No. louvre doors various sizes + 7 No. smaller doors. 40

VEHICLES FOR SALE

euros the lot, buyer collects. el Perello area,

Nissan Navara 2.5 Diesel, Double Cab, Year 2000,

email.. marge1998@hotmail.co.uk.

132,000mls, MOT Feb 2013, Tax June 2012, 3400 Euros, Tel 642 243 711.

Generator Pramac P6000 , Yanmar engine , 6 KVA, Low Hours , EUR 1400 no offers , Tel : 671808096

SKODA OCTAVIA ESTATE 1.9 tdi, 2004, 4 newish tyres, new brake pads, ITV until 11.2013 TOTALLY RELIABLE. 173,000 kms, ONLY 3000 euros, 977 265 208

42 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201


Renault Express, LHD 1996 1.9 diesel - ITV Aug. 2012 203,000 kms. Good condition - good runner

El Perelló Freesia Group Activities for March: Bookstalls:

1250€ Tel. 653449997

Saturday 12th May. Saturday 26th May.Bookstalls are held opposite the Homogênik Bar, El Perelló from 10 am to 1

Chrysler Voyager 2.5 TD LE 1996 LHD 7 seater ITV Sept.

pm. Please note that if the weather is bad, they might not

2012 Good runner but needs some T.L.C.

be held.

650€ Tel. 657 494 750

PUBLIC INFORMATION

SERVICES

Large Van Service UK-Spain, Computer problems

Phoenix group set up to offer friendship, support and

rectified, VHS and photo negatives to digital, Agents

practical help. Meetings every second Tuesday of each

for ALERT PAL Alarm Cameras, Translations Catalan,

month @ Bar Calxic (opposite Cinema Victoria, el Perello

Spanish and English.

@ 11.00 a.m. All welcome. Phone Marge 977 267 779 or

977477367 www.alexanderpearson.tk

email phoenixhelpinghands@hotmail.com to find out more. Satellite TV, Installs, Repairs, Dishes Re-aligned, St Christopher's Church, L'Ampolla have services every first

Channel Loss Cured, All Problems Solved, Contact

& third Sunday of the month in the Catholic church at 12:30.

Joe 681 133 119

Jubilee Party on Sunday 3rd June at Camping St Jordi after

CONCRETE PAVING SLABS FOR SALE | different

the church service, +/- 14:00 all very welcome, buffet lunch

designs, sizes and colours. Please ring for a competitive

and wine with Splash providing some light entertainment.

quote. Delivery service available. Also slab laying on

Tickets 8 euros available at Bona Fe in Perello or from

request. Tel. 692 751 488 or 692 759 276.

Christine - tel 669 990479 CAR BODY REPAIRS AND REPAINTING | all aspects of CAR BOOT SALE 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. Situated Hipaca Escornalbou, Vilanova D'Escornalbou. Arrive 9am starts 10am Bar and Restaurant-no fresh produce allowed Contacts Cosme 620 215 772 or Sylvia 665 159 781

vehicle preparation and spraying. 20 years experience, references available. Competitive prices. Tel. 692 751 488 or 692 759 276. FLOOR AND WALL TILER Domestic or Commercial

COME TO BUY OR SELL !, Sunday, 13th May 2012, 10.00

References available.

– 13.30, SALOU, Car park behind Town Hall, RESERVE

Call Mark 686 069 923 ( 40 km radius of Mora D’ebre)

YOUR PITCH (PRICE 8€) BY CALLING :

977 365032

(1300 – 1500), 651115877, All pitch proceeds go to

ENGLISH MECHANIC - Basic servicing, maintenance

FREESIA GROUP FOR CANCER CHARITIES,

and repairs. Tel: 977 407 990. mob. 699 396 053

ARCA BOOK AND BRIC A BRAC SALE, You are invited to

GENERAL BUILDER Over 25 years experience.

a book and bric a brac sale at Finca Jazmin Sunday the 6th

Registered legal builder in Catalunya over 5 years.

of May at 10 am till about 1 pm. Please bring what you can.

Bricklaying, plastering, tiling, plumbing, electrics,

There will be a small charge for coffee and cake and raffle.

roofing etc. Tel. Jonathan 699 396 053

All proceeds to Arca. You should also bring a raffle prize, anything. How about that unwanted Christmas present. Bring someone new, Andy will also have plants/flowers for sale, Raspberries must be Pre-ordered. Sorry no Rhubarb until the Autumn, To give us an idea of numbers please respond, Either by e-mail fincajazmin@hotmail.co.uk or Tel Andy 600890453 or Julie 600018541.

VAN SPAIN-UK-SPAIN Van going to UK 1st & last week in May. All shopping done at very competitive rates Asda, Tesco, Screw Fix, what ever you want I can shop for you and deliver back to Spain. Contact Les on 629 010 529 or lesvalblf@gmail.com


NEW BUILDS

REFORMS

EXTENSIONS

Williams Construction REGISTERED SPANISH BUILDER - NIE PROVIDED

Tel: (+34) 616 135 036 APDO 274, L’Ametlla de Mar

Country Home For Sale in Los Barrios, Cadiz Spain 750,000€+OFFERS. Unbelievable value has good holiday rental business with a separate cottage and apartment as well as an outstanding family home . Reduced by 400,000 euros for quick sale because of family health problems. Country house situated on a private estate in a nature reserve, only 20 minutes from Sotogrande Polo fields and Valderamma and San Roques Golf courses. ENQUIRIES : 956 236 068 or 657 629 118 or email : info@theolivepress.eu

MOBILE HOMES FROM 800 EUROS.

FOR SALE, 2 plots of land l'Ametlla de Mar excellent situation and access just off the N340 going

into the village of L'Ametlla. Clean flat land with olive trees and carobs. Adjacent properties have mains electric and mains water. Sea and mountain views Totally fenced in, just 2km from L'Ametlla de Mar. Plot 1 approx 6600 m2 only 39,500 euros Plot 2 approx 4500 m2 only 34,500 euros. Call to view or more details: 977 059 420 or 660 823 423


business card directory All entries are also listed on our directory online at www.the-olive-press.com The Olive Press does not accept responsibility for the contents of the articles supplied by contributors nor for the claims made by advertisers PLEASE MENTION THE OLIVE PRESS WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS

Instructor

Olivia Snaith

zumba.com

N_MM_1side_bizcard.indd 1

L'Ampolla Church Hall Monday 6:30pm Thursday 11am tel: 642 913 047 olivia_j_snaith@live.co.uk

7/27/10 12:17 PM


business card directory

Business Card This size - 36â‚Źper month Double - 65â‚Źper month discounts for 3 & 6 months

you relax...

ARCA the dog refuge wish to give sincere thanks to everyone for supporting them. Please keep it up it is truly appreciated. Calenders and t-shirts are also for sale to raise funds for the dogs- www.

protectoraarca.org or email: protectora.arca@ wanadoo.es

46


can it be true

www.the-olive-press.com

47


MySpanishome Your English Estate Agents In Tortosa Fully Registered

www.myspanishome.com M1227 – Jesus/Tortosa Country Chalet with Mountain Views! with Cedula D’Habitabilitat Chalet of 91m² with 2 double bed & 2 bathrooms 17400m² plot with Gated Entrance Electricity & Community Water Furnished Price: 149.000€

M1253 - Roquetes - Villa 244m² - Exceptional! Roquetes Unique opportunity! On two floors 5 bedrooms – 2 bathrooms – 9000m² fenced plot. stable block of 4 - store houses - menage - paddock bbq - swimming pool - 2 x garages. 5 mins from town. With Cedula D’Habitabilitat NOW Price: 250.000€ M1284 – Roquete Beautiful Gated Chalet with sep. Guest Bungalow WITH CEDULA D'HABITABILITAT Chalet with 3 double bed & family shower room & en-suit full bathroom Guest Bungalow with 2 bed & shower room Swimming Pool. Optional Fishing business – boat/ rods/etc etc etc! (15.000€) Price: 290.000€ M1289 – 1km Amposta 180m² Country property Fully furnished property – water & elec. Two very spacious bedrooms (20 and 15 m²)20 m² kitchen - equipped 50 m² lounge/dining room fireplace & woodburner, bathroom - shower cubicle, 2 basins. 9000m² fenced & gated plot Price 150.000€

M1256 – Camarles - 15 mins to beach! Country House with Sea Views. Unique Country House with Cedula D’Habitabilitat! House over two floors and connected to water & electricity. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, terraces with sea views, store room. 29000m² fenced plot. NOW Price of 149.950€ M1276 – Xerta Village house with 3 beds 1 bath Lovely reformed riverside village house over 3 floors with roof terrace overlooking village & Church. Price: 80.000€

M1294 – Roquetes Casa de Camp – 5 mins from town! 15000m2 Olive farm. Casa of 90m² for finishing. Electricity Electric gates Stunning view of Mont Caro & surrounding countryside. Price: 55.000€

M1131 – Tres Cales/ L’Ametlla de Mar 118m² Villa 3 beds, bathroom, Sep. Lounge Kitchen/Diner Swimming Pool Sea & Mountain Views! 330m² plot Price: 190.000€

M1285 – Mas de Barberans WITH CEDULA D'HABITABILITAT Country House of 162m² for complete refurb. Flat land partially fenced just 2km from village. 6554m² plot Price: 59.000€

M1249 – L’Ampolla Country House Charming 3 bed 2 bath Country house 15 mins from L’Ampolla Full of character, rustic style! 15.000m² plot. Price: 130.000€

Av. Generalitat 70, 43500, Tortosa, Tarragona, Spain email: info@myspanishome.com

+34 977 446 655 +34 639 041 277 +34 679 499 316

48 email: info@the-olive-press.com Tel: 977 457 201

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