Spain is buzzing with a mix of the bizarre and the budget-conscious this week, as stories ranging from a centuries-old pine tree to celebrity salaries dominate headlines. Let's dive into the eclectic mix of news coming out of the Iberian Peninsula.
A Pine Tree Crashes the Party (and the Website)
In the town of Abengibre, Albacete, a 400-year-old pine tree is making waves. This isn't just any old tree; it has a name and a serious shot at being crowned "Best Tree in Europe." The campaign, spearheaded by Lalachus in an event called 'La Revuelta,' proved so popular that it actually crashed the voting website! That's some serious arboreal enthusiasm.
Who knew trees could generate so much excitement? It just goes to show that sometimes, the most unexpected stories can capture the public's imagination.
Toilet Paper Comics Tackle Serious Topics
Speaking of unexpected, a comic called 'A los pechos me remito' (loosely translated as "Here's to the Breasts") made a splash at 'La Revuelta' by appearing on a roll of toilet paper. Yes, you read that right. But this isn't just a gag; it's a first-person, humorous story about breast cancer. The author and illustrator recently appeared on David Broncano's program to discuss the project's origins and its unique approach to a sensitive subject.
This unconventional format allows for a deeply personal and surprisingly funny exploration of a challenging experience. It's a testament to the power of art to address important issues in creative ways.
New Year's Eve Spending Under Scrutiny
Finally, RTVE, the Spanish public broadcaster, has revealed the cost of its New Year's Eve broadcast, including the salaries of presenters David Broncano and Lalachus. The total cost of the program came to €248,466, with €66,000 allocated to the presenters. However, this figure is subject to "expense liquidation" and may ultimately vary.
In times of economic uncertainty, public spending is always under scrutiny. The revelation of these figures has sparked debate about the value and necessity of such extravaganzas.
From ancient trees to toilet paper comics to celebrity salaries, Spain's media landscape offers a diverse and often surprising range of stories. It's a reminder that news can be found in the most unexpected places.
