Best Buy July 2016

COVER STORY

Launching a business is tough but also very rewarding if you keep at it. Marie-Claire Grima speaks to three entrepreneurs about how they started out and where they are now. PAGE 3 >

BEST BUY YOUR MONTHLY SHOPPING GUIDE DISTRIBUTED WITH THE TIMES

Protect your hair from UV damage Summer is here! Days are bright, long and hot. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming, right?

But do be careful of UV rays. In Malta, together with our amazing climate and blue skies, we have high rates of UV rays especially between the months of April and October.

We are all fully aware of the importance of protecting our skin from the sun, but we mustn’t forget to protect our hair. Excessive exposure to the sun is the main cause of detriment to the hair’s structure and colour. Protecting the hair cuticle is very important for keeping the hair’s integrity. This can be achieved by using hair care products with UV filters such as the following:

JOICO Color Endure Shampoo and Treatment Masque

The new formulated range has been designed for those wanting to prolong the tonal integrity and longevity of their hair colour, ensuring clarity, brilliance and luminosity every day. Thanks to the Multi-Spectrum Complex™, it prevents UV rays from robbing hair of colour molecules.

The JOICO Color Endure Shampoo is suitable for daily use; it cleans hair by removing product build-up and protecting the colour’s vibrancy. The JOICO Color Endure Treatment Masque is an intensive treatment which dramatically improves the condition of the hair whilst ensuring colour longevity and shine.

Senscience Brilliant Defense

Senscience Brilliant Defense spray has been formulated with a selected blend of sunscreens to protect the hair from UV rays and colour fade while providing conditioning benefits.

Silicones add shine and softness to hair while Vitamin E protects against oxidation caused by exposure to the sun and other environmental factors.

Just spray it on your hair before going to the beach or swimming pool, and ta-da! Protected even if you go for a swim!

Issue 110

July 2016

IN THIS ISSUE...

HOMES As temperatures soar, your house should be a fresh refuge from the summer heat. Martina Said looks at the best and most cost-effective ways to cool your house.

PAGE 9 >

INTERVIEW Dog trainer Robert Spiteri of the Service Dog Foundation tells Jo Caruana all about living his passion, ‘talking dog’ and why he loves Rottweilers so much. PAGE 17 >

BAIN DE TERRE Recovery Complex® Anti-frizz Shine Serum

This serum helps you fight the frizz while giving your hair the protection it needs against environmental factors.

Perfect for all hair types, it can be applied to damp or dry hair. Plus, it's alcohol and paraben free, and infused with argan and monoi oils that give hair silky perfection.

Find these and other beauty and hair products at www.salonsmalta.com. For more information T: 2144 9236; E: marketing@salonsmalta.com

BEAUTY Thinking of going for the chop this summer? Sarah Micallef tells you all there is to know about drastically changing your look. PAGE 30 >

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COVER STORY

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THAT INNOVATIVE SPARK

Starting your own company requires guts, hard work and determination. Marie-Claire Grima met with three company founders to find out more about taking the plunge into entrepreneurship. get it right now. As my mum would say 'believing in yourself is the most important part of it all, you can be whatever you want to be.'

"THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE WAS CHANGING THE MENTALITY IN MALTA"

"I have three idols: Jesus, Richard Branson and Jim Morrison"

Steve Mercieca, co-founder, Quicklets, a property letting company “I started working on Quicklets part-time in 2013, whilst holding down a full-time job at a gaming company and working as a night receptionist.

After a couple of months building the database I started to take on clients and by the sixth month, I rented a property at Tigné Point which gave me the capital and motivation to do Quicklets full-time. I asked my web genius friend Sami Baddar to join me to help on the software and online side, and my brother Michael to take care of all the legal, VAT and tax aspects. The industry was just starting to boom and together we were the ideal team.”

“The biggest challenge in the beginning was funding. The

budget for the set-up was very low. I didn’t even own a car at the time, Sami gave me his old one. I had a home loan which my dad covered for a couple of months until I ended up renting my flat and sleeping on the office floor a couple of times too. Borrowing parts of computers to get one to work was also a big part of the first year of our start-up. However, today we have eight offices and a team of 96 people – our biggest challenges now are managing the whole set-up and making sure we all share the same vision, as well as focusing on new and innovative ways to improve the industry. In fact, we’re currently working on introducing Oculus Rift which is a new virtual reality game changer.”

“When I was a kid, I once told my grandmother that when I grew up I wanted to be a farmer because farmers don’t have bosses or fixed working hours. She looked at me,

smiled and said, “everyone has a boss, in the case of a farmer, the weather is his boss.” Today I understand her. I am my own boss yes, but being a boss comes with responsibilities. It doesn’t mean you can take as much time off as you want, it doesn’t mean that you can go in late or leave early. It means the total opposite of that. I believe that when you are the ‘boss’ – a word we don’t use at our company, I actually share my desk with the other agents – the best part is that you can be creative, play results and best of all you can make ‘work’ fun for the rest of your team.”

“I have three idols: Jesus, Richard Branson and Jim Morrison. I preach what they preach. Be honest, do good, give back and most of all have fun. If you’ve got an idea, pitch it, get up and do it. Don’t hold back, forget security. Life’s a gamble – if you have the opportunity take it, if you don’t, keep looking for it. Go out and

Clayton Borg, co-founder, Mattress Collection, specialising in beds, mattresses and sleep accessories “During an overseas trip with my brother, we visited a mattress shop and realised how different the experience of buying a mattress abroad was compared to Malta. The mattresses were of superior quality, the salesmen were very knowledgeable about what they were talking about, and the customers could try out the product using the ‘Sleep Trial’.

We decided there and then that we needed to bring this experience over to Malta.”

“One of our main obstacles was capital, along with the challenge of fulfilling multiple roles within the company. We had to do all this while patiently waiting for the business to reach each milestone and goal we had set. The biggest challenge though in our case was changing the mentality in Malta. Even offering our customers their money back should they not like the mattress was met with scepticism, which initially we found absurd – who would have a problem with that? However, you quickly realise that it takes time for people to accept you are genuine especially if they have been taken for a ride so many times.”

“The most satisfying aspect of the job is the feedback we get from our clients. I still remember the moment one elderly client who had severe back pain broke down in tears and thanked us for helping her finally sleep pain-free.

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COVER STORY

She even said a prayer for us, rosary beads and all. That moment is etched forever in my mind.”

“Going from an employee to an entrepreneur is a big lifestyle change. Don’t make the mistake of assuming it's a way to get rich quick. While there’s something liberating about being your own boss, it involves a lot of hard work, requires a lot of determination and learning, and only pays off in the long run. Take a good look at yourself before making the change. However, if you put in the right structure, you will eventually have less stress, more time and guaranteed security for your family.”

“WE WERE BEING RESTRAINED FROM EXPRESSING AND ACHIEVING OUR FULL POTENTIAL”

John Catania, co-founder, The Other Guys, a web, software design and digital marketing agency “As young ambitious individuals, we set out working in our industry for big companies here in Malta, hoping to move up through the ranks and live comfortable lives. We quickly came to the

realisation that due to certain cultures and philosophies we were being restrained from expressing and achieving our full potential. Frustrated, we decided to embark on a new challenge; to create a digital agency where we would embrace a different mind-set and philosophy. We wanted to prove to ourselves that greatness can still be achieved without taking the traditional route.”

“One of the most important things about starting up a business is enjoying your journey every step of the way. To us, walking into the

office and watching the team working together to achieve a common goal is always satisfying on a daily basis. More importantly, when we started this company we created core pillars we promised ourselves we would follow. One of these pillars was relationships and as a group I think we all take great satisfaction when we reach that point with a client where it’s almost a friendship rather than a ‘you and them’ mentality. We believe in a flat structure where everyone in the company has a voice and is encouraged to give their opinion. We also believe that the more comfortable our

employees are, the better their performance at work.”

“Being your own boss might sound scary to some people in the sense that the boss should know the answers to every question and should be able to make the right decision every single time. That’s why it is important to communicate and seek advice from peers, colleagues and even family and friends. It is amazing how people with different backgrounds tackle situations and problems differently. And never stop learning – you never know everything, so soak it all up.”

“Trying to break into an already saturated market with a number of established agencies was never going to be easy. Being different and continuously striving to find ways to be innovative were both key initiatives to ensure we turn heads and leave a mark in this industry. Our advice would be no matter how big or small a job is, always provide a good solid service – in turn you will build strong and positive relationships with your clients and stakeholders.” BB

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Foreword

GREAT EXPECTATIONS New beginnings always include a leap of faith. Whether you’re moving away, starting a family or launching your own business, as the entrepreneurs in our cover story on page 3 did, a certain element of risk has to be taken.

However, with hard work and perseverance, most people will find that their sacrifices pay off handsomely in the end. And if that wasn’t enough proof that happiness comes to those who work for it, dog trainer Robert

© 2016 All rights reserved. Articles appearing in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to print, however the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

Spiteri, interviewed on page 17, is one of the lucky ones who have managed to transform their lifelong passions into a career they love.

Besides plenty of incentive to follow your dreams, this month’s issue is packed with summery inspiration. Looking to beat the heat? Check out our lavish cocktails spread on page 23 and be the star bartender at your next party or barbeque. We also

Best Buy is the leading shopping guide distributed with The Times every month on a Wednesday.

have tips on giving your house (page 9) and car (page 13) a bit of much-needed TLC during these fiery months. Also, if you’re planning on changing up your look big-time, you can get some great ideas thanks to the tips on page 30. Every summer has a story – what’s yours going to be?

7

Publishers

Content House Group Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel.

T: 2132 0713 E: info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt EDITOR Marie-Claire Grima Contributors Sarah Micallef, Jo Caruana, Martina Said Advertising Publication Sales Manager Mark Barbara Advertising Sales Executive Diane Scerri Advertising Sales Coordinators Lindsey Napier, Marvic Cutajar

NEXT ISSUE:

03.08.16 DOn'T MISS IT

DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar Printer Progress Press Ltd

TRANSFORM YOUR HAIR IN SECONDS Imagine if you never had to worry about the appearance of thinning hair again.

Whether you have thin hair, a wide parting, or hair loss at the crown, Nanogen Hair Thickening Fibres can transform your hair in seconds.

You can regain that great feeling of confidence you had years ago when a full head of hair was something you took for granted.

Easy to Apply

Nanogen fibres are applied quickly and without mess by simply shaking the unique container over thin or thinning hair. This releases thousands of microscopic colourmatched hair fibres, which

bind electrostatically to, and branch off each individual hair.

Charged with static electricity, they bond to your own hair in fir-tree patterns, creating a natural-looking and naturalfeeling density. Nanogen Hair Thickening Fibres bond to your hair so securely they will stay in place all day, and will not stain or smear. Nanogen Hair Thickening Fibres will even resist strong winds, rain and swimming when combined with Hair Fibre Locking Spray.

Undetectable, Natural Appearance

Nanogen Hair Thickening Fibres actually merge with your own hair, adding real

volume and allowing styling like you never again thought possible. Every time you look in the mirror you will be truly amazed by the natural results that are virtually undetectable to the naked eye. You can even build up the amount of Nanogen Fibres you use over time to create a gradual transformation. Nanogen Hair Thickening Fibres can also be used before hair transplants to subtly build up the appearance of thicker hair so the transplants do not cause an obvious and sudden change. Not only do Nanogen Fibres look natural, the container is elegant and discreetly makes no mention of hair camouflage at all.

100 per cent Safe for Male and Female Thinning Hair Over one million incredible transformations prove that Nanogen Hair Thickening

Fibres are safe. They are completely natural and they will not damage your hair or scalp. That’s why they are used by leading hair transplant surgeons to conceal thinning hair right up to surgery, and afterwards to hide the healing wounds. Nanogen Hair Thickening Fibres are recommended by the Alopecia Society for men and women with thinning hair.

Choose the colour that’s right for you

Nanogen Keratin Hair Thickening Fibres are available in ten neutral shades that can be mixed and matched to any hair colour, including greys and highlights.

Tip: Use the darker colour first as a base, and then use the lighter colour fibres to touch up.

The fibres can be completely removed by shampooing. Our unique colour lock system means the fibres do not run, stain or leave marks in your bathroom. Available in 15g and 30g.

Beauty Culture Group, Galanton Vassallo Street, Santa Venera. Contact us today for your nearest stockist on 2144 0424/ 2744 0424 or send a message on 7921 3232; www.nanogenmalta.com; Fb: NanogenMalta

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HOMES

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Keep Your Cool The summer sun manages to infiltrate our homes despite our best efforts to shut it out during the sweltering months.

But not all measures are ineffective. Martina Said discusses the range of options available – from pricey investments to practical measures – to keep your house cool this summer.

Invest in improvements

Up until a few years ago, having an air conditioning system in your home was considered a luxury. Today, however, it is nothing short of a necessity and investing in good ACs is certainly money well spent.

Choosing the right product to suit your home could be a chore, as there are lots of options out there to choose from, all claiming to be the best. But there are numerous factors to keep in mind when scouting around for the best AC. Most people tend to select AC units based on price, but cheap, low-quality units could

only end up costing you more in the long run. Instead, look for value for money, which includes looking at the brand as well as the features, such as noise levels, the working temperatures (the temperature until which the AC cools or heats), the classification of the unit (A, A+ or even A++) and the company you’re purchasing from. Sometimes, spending an additional €50 to €100 will give you much more, both in terms of reliability and economical value.

The size and orientation (that is, whether facing north or south) of the room you’ll be installing the AC in should

also influence your decision.

An air conditioner that is too small will not keep your home sufficiently cool. On the other hand, however, an oversized system will turn on and off more than necessary, wasting energy and putting excessive strain on the compressor. A good contractor should be able to determine the best size for your home according to your cooling requirements, and that includes taking into account your window dimensions and exposure, floor space, insulation and climate, as well as heat-generating appliances.

In order to ensure the longevity of your AC units, get the filters

TOP TIP

cleaned and maintained from year to year as accumulated fluff, dust and debris around the filters makes them less efficient, and consider shading the units so that they are out of direct sunlight and therefore more effective.

Switch off lights and fans when they’re not in use, and unplug electronic devices which tend to generate heat even when they’re switched off.

Windows are the most vulnerable access points that allow a lot of heat in, so if you’re thinking of making some drastic improvements, changing the apertures of your home is certainly one way to go about it. Consider windows with double-glazed panels, where the space between the panels is filled with gases that have lower conductivity levels

than air, therefore heat doesn’t travel through them in the same way. Just as we seal windows in winter to prevent cold draughts and humidity from creeping in, we should do the same in summer to prevent hot air from entering our homes. If your windows are already double glazed, give them a quick

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HOMES DID YOU KNOW? By placing awnings over windows, you can experience a 70 per cent reduction in indoor heat. once-over to ensure there are no cracks or gaps from where hot air can enter.

You should also consider painting the roof of your home with reflective paints to veer off the sun’s rays. Just as ice and snow reflect UV rays instead of absorbing the heat, so can your home reflect the sun’s rays when painted with light and heat-reflective paint.

Adopt simple measures

If any of these measures prove to be well above and beyond your budget, don’t fret, as there are plenty of other methods to help improve your home’s indoor temperature. During the times of day when the sun is not directly shining through your windows, open them wide and allow hot air which rises to vent out. Doing so also helps circulate the air inside your home and get rid of toxins accumulated from other appliances.

Turn ceiling fans counter-clockwise where the blades tilt upwards as they spin to push air downward and create a stronger draught, and place portable fans in front of open windows to bring the cool air in. Fans don’t do much to cool a room down, but they do help cool you down as moving air evaporates moisture from your skin. Also, draw the curtains and roll down the blinds to keep the sun out during the hottest parts of the day.

Installing awnings around windows in your home is a worthwhile investment and great

value for money, and also an ideal way to create shade, particularly since windows absorb most of the heat that enters the home. By placing awnings over windows, you can experience a 70 per cent reduction in indoor heat, ensuring that the sun does not fall directly onto the windows.

They might not come cheap, but good quality awnings will last you many years and, since they do their job so well, you’ll quickly find that your money was well spent.

If you stand long enough next to a light bulb you’ll begin to break a sweat. So consider how much heat all the light bulbs and appliances in your home are generating. The answer: a lot.

Incandescent light bulbs are known to generate a lot of heat that can quickly spread across the house and heat indoor air. Replacing these bulbs with CLFs or LEDs helps minimise that.

Also, switch off lights and fans when they’re not in use and unplug electronic devices which tend to generate heat even when they’re switched off.

If you’ve got the space for it and have green fingers, planting trees around your house could help do what all these other things cannot: shade your house effectively and naturally, without generating heat and negatively impacting the environment. Trees are as sophisticated as any electronic equipment – they let the sun through in winter when the leaves are lighter or shed altogether, and grow leaves in summer to block it out. Visit a florist for advice on the best shade trees to plant around your house, and where best to position them for optimal effectiveness in summer as well as winter. BB

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MOTORING

Is your car roadsafe for summer?

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BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

Martina Said shares some handy tips for keeping your car in the best possible shape this season. keep everything at the right temperature. Therefore, any cracks or cuts in the hoses could cause leakages and a less efficient cooling system.

I

t is safe to assume that the heat gets the better of everyone and everything, including our trusty vehicles which are not immune to or spared from the strength of the sun. Doing an all-round check of your car at the start of summer would be most ideal, but if you happened to neglect that and are noticing signs of strain, it would pay you to take notice, as extreme heat, cracked hoses, leaky radiators and low tyres can lead to the total breakdown of your car.

Some of the most common problems caused by the summer heat are engine failure due to thermostat and water system failure, as well as paint oxidising. Avoid engine failure, which could end up costing you dearly, by checking the hoses regularly. As the weather warms up, vehicles are exposed to intense heat, which means that the cooling system will be under increased pressure to

As for protecting the paint, polish and wax-treat your car twice a year – ideally once before summer and again once the heat subsides. Whenever possible, parking indoors is always a better option, especially when parking for long periods, and avoid parking under trees as sap and bird droppings damage the paint. The same can be said for sea salt which leads to rust, so avoid parking by a waterfront if possible. It is always recommended to use a reflective shield on your windscreen – in order to keep some heat out of your car as well as to protect the dashboard from wear and tear.

You may also protect your car by wrapping it with vinyl.

Contrary to popular belief, wrapping a car protects the paint underneath rather than damages it, as the vinyl acts as a cover for the paint, preventing it from harsh weather conditions. The process may also be reversed by having the wrap removed and, if uninstalled correctly, the vinyl won’t leave any residue, or peel any paint or clear coat with it.

Your car will instantly indicate if something is wrong with it, and the worst thing you can do is ignore the warning signs. Pay particular attention to the lights and dials on your dashboard – if the oil sensor lights up, stop at the side of the road rather than wait for the car to stop you, and the same applies with the temperature gauge. This could prevent major costs in car damage. BB

What’s the best way to wash my car?

Andrew Falzon from AF Auto suggests washing your car every two to four weeks using the following method and products, in order to help keep your car in top condition.

• Park your car in a cool, shady spot.

• Wash the wheels and tyres first to avoid splashing clean paint with dirt from the wheels.

• Wash the car’s exterior from top to bottom. Wash one section at a time so that the wash doesn’t dry before rinsing.

• Clean and protect the interior, namely the seats, dashboard and door panels.

• Next, shine and protect your tyres, trim and bumpers with Armor All Protectant.

• Finally, clean your glass with an auto glass cleaner, such as Armor All Glass Cleaner.

• Wax your car every six to eight weeks and top it up between washes with Armor All Speed Wax Detailer Sprayer. If the surface is dull, faded or scratched, use Armor All Colour Restorer.

MAKE YOUR CAR STAND OUT LogoGrafix’s products range from matteblack vinyl wraps and carbon fibre wraps for car enthusiasts to full-colour customisation wraps for companies that wish to brand their car fleet, including vans, trailers or trucks.

The skilled design team uses vinyl decals, lettering or basic branding on the exterior of your vehicles, and can also customise a full vehicle wrap, with exclusive design elements so that everyone can recognise your car or fleet.

The state-of-the-art printers and equipment available at LogoGrafix will also ensure the best possible finish and durability.

LogoGrafix, 392, Cannon Road, St Venera.

T: 2149 8829; M: 7949 8829/7979 1515; E: info@logografixsigns.com

HILLTOP GARAGE

With over 40 years' experience, Hilltop Garage offers a wide range of services under one roof. From oven-baked spray, panel beating and spray painting to supplying parts, repairing plastic bumpers, replacing windscreens, A/C refilling and vehicle polish, you can find it all at Hilltop Garage. MCCAA Approved.

Leave your vehicles in their safe hands – Hilltop Garage can guarantee to fix your vehicle from A to Z!

Hilltop Garage Car Accident Repair Centre, Triq Gharram, Haz-Zebbug. M: 9987 3827; E: htp@maltanet.net

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WINDOW SHOPPING

Win with Malta Airport Shopping on Foodie Fridays At Malta International Airport, you have one more reason to TGIF (thank God it’s Friday) with the launch of Foodie Fridays next month.

On Foodie Fridays, guests dining at the airport can win shopping vouchers every single week.

The first step is to decide which food you’d like to indulge in from the different options available. For the healthy, organic dieters, Dr Juice Eating Place is the first port of call, serving the famous quinoa burger, noodles, soups and salads, as well as a vast range of delicious juices and smoothies, all made from scratch. If you’re visiting in the very early morning hours or late at night, you know there’s always a place for a coffee and a chat at Costa Coffee, conveniently open 24 hours a day. When you’re craving a scrumptious burger or finger lickin’ chicken, you know you can rely on Burger King and KFC, whereas for the more traditional and familiar meals, you’re definitely sorted at Fat Harry’s, with a bowl of pasta or ftira and pint of draught beer. Malta’s one and only Sandella’s Flatbread Café in the food court also serves good snacks and healthy flatbread, adding more variety to the wealth of choice you can find at the airport.

Participating in the Foodie Fridays draw is very easy. When visiting the airport on a Friday, spend at least €5 at any one of the seven food outlets located before the security checkpoint. Keep your receipt, and once your tummy is full, write your name, surname and contact number on the back of this receipt. Then, deposit your receipt in one of the three Foodie Fridays lottery boxes situated around the terminal. You will find these lottery boxes located at Dr Juice Eating Place and Costa Coffee in the Check-in Hall, as well as in the Food Court on level -1.

Every week a name will be drawn, with the lucky winner getting a €50 voucher to spend at any one of the 22 outlets at Malta International Airport.

So when you hear your tummy rumbling on a Friday, head down to the airport, where it definitely pays to be a foodie!

This lottery will be launched in August 2016.

Find us on www.facebook.com/ maltairport to see what’s on at Malta International Airport.

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INTERVIEW

17

Dogs’ Best Friend

Robert Spiteri is one of Malta’s best-known dog trainers and the founder of the Service Dog Foundation. Here he chats to Jo Caruana about the incredible bond he shares with man’s best friend.

T

he words ‘Robert Spiteri’ and ‘dogs’ are intrinsically linked. Known for his incredible passion for dog training, Robert has been nicknamed the ‘dog whisperer’ and hundreds of people each year trust him to help them build their relationship with their dogs.

“As a child I would love watching movies that featured a dog, and I would try to teach any tricks I had seen to my own dog,” Robert recalls. “Some were a success, while others were a complete failure, and that intrigued me.”

Robert’s passion for dog training went from strength to strength and, over the years, it has become his full-time job – whether he’s training families to work with their new pet, or service dogs to work with people that need them.

“I have now been in the field for 20 years. I started out as a teenager, training my German shepherd at a local club. But I wasn’t very convinced by the techniques, so I looked into the latest methods and found new ways of working that I could endorse, namely using positive reinforcement. Understanding a dog’s behaviour and mind is something I find intriguing and fascinating. To ‘talk dog’

is a simple motto I endorse; obviously it doesn’t literally mean speaking ‘doggish’ but, instead, signifies understanding a dog’s communication patterns and gestures. The more I read and study about it, the more I am absorbed in the topic.”

Robert’s passion for Rottweilers led him to form the Maltese Rottweiler Club and, as an amateur himself, he started practising some of his newly acquired skills, alongside some of his friends and their dogs. Over time, his passion developed further and he sat for his first formal training with a UK Kennel Club trainer, which earned him the status of an official Good Dog Citizenship Scheme Trainer.

He has also read for various dog training diplomas and obtained warrants in Scotland and Belgium, and recently undertook an intensive course with American trainers on service dog training. He is currently reading for another diploma on canine aggression.

“I didn’t think of dog training as a career for a long time, and donated all of my time for over 12 years because I was so passionate about it. That period in my life gave me lots of valuable experience. However, it was only in the last eight years or

so, after reading to become a behaviour consultant, that I started working in this field professionally, and that was still part-time,” Robert says.

In 2013, after having worked with guide dogs for several years, Robert founded the Service Dog Foundation NGO, which became his fulltime job in November 2015.

The foundation trains dogs for children on the autistic spectrum, as well as for diabetic alerts and pet therapy.

“In the future I hope to offer other services, such as dogs to help those in a wheelchair or deaf people. There are so many stories of success with these wonderful dogs. One of my favourites is of a nineyear-old child with autism who only spoke at home. However, after some interaction with the service dogs, he started to talk to the dog and, eventually, to his learning support assistant at school. It was very emotional as they were thrilled by the progress he made in such a short time; it was the moment they had been waiting for for a whole year.”

Dealing with dogs and people obviously gives room for all sorts of stories, including some very funny ones, Robert says.

“On one occasion an owner called me and, in a very serious tone, said: “Listen Robert,

I have got this ‘clicker’ but, whenever I press it in my dog’s direction, nothing happens.” I was speechless for a second! I had to explain that the clicker – a tool used to help training – was not a remote control that would automatically make his dog act in a certain way! He seemed very surprised.”

“I love doing something I enjoy, and helping people to live happily with their pets. When it comes to service dogs training, even just getting a smile or some form of interaction from a child can mean so much.

There is no greater joy than being a witness to a dog creating magic and helping someone. I only wish that there were more hours in the day, so that I could devote more time to my work and family.”

Although he works with all sorts of dogs, Robert says he still adores Rottweilers for their strength, temper, kindness and loyalty, and is deeply attached

to his own Rottie, a six-year-old named Balto. “He’s a bit like a second son to me! I do refer to myself as a one-dog man, as the bond I have with Balto is unique and it’s not something I would share with multiple dogs at the same time.”

Robert believes that children in Malta need to see good examples of how to treat animals, which is sadly lacking, and encourages the Government to invest more in educational programmes to this end. He also advises anyone thinking of getting a dog to make sure that they have the time to care for it properly. “Make sure you get the right breed for you and start training with the help of a qualified professional. Don’t focus on commands, as they will come in time. Instead, focus on your relationship with the dog. Spend time with him or her, and be sure to set rules and establish a routine.” BB

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WINDOW SHOPPING

PROMOTING DOG WELFARE, EMPOWERING OWNERS

Malta Dog Training Services is run

by Robert Spiteri, who strives to bring forward in Malta the ultimate dog training and behaviour therapy techniques while promoting dog welfare and education. He believes that by empowering owners to be more proactive, they can truly enjoy the company of their dogs.

Robert Spiteri is fully qualified, with advanced diplomas from the UK, Belgium and the USA in obedience, sport training, service dog training, dog behaviour and nutrition. He also has a warrant from the UK as a practising dog behaviour consultant in order to rehabilitate problematic dogs. The services he offers include: • Correction of problematic dog behaviour • Obedience training

• Nutrition advice • Selection and testing of puppies both for work and as pets • Working dog temper trial training For more information: M: 9944 2426; E: maltadogtraining@gmail.com; www.maltadogtraining.com

FLEXIBLE FOUR-DOOR BEKO FRIDGE-FREEZERS The Beko four-door refrigerator gives you the flexibility to change your storage space. Just by pressing the button of the electronic touch control digital display, the bottom right 77L compartment can be used as either a fridge or a freezer (temperature range: -24/+10 °C).

Even 2.5l bottles can be reached without having to open the door thanks to the minibar lid and extra room in the fridge compartment door.

With the help of a special anti-bacterial seal coated on the door handles, the most important contact points remain bacteria-free. Thanks to the fan in the fridge section of selected Beko fridge freezers, cold air will be circulated in the fridge more evenly, thus ensuring a

better cooling performance.

Beko active fresh blue light technology continues the process of photosynthesis in the fridge, prolonging the storage life of fresh fruit and vegetables while maintaining their natural flavours and nutritional elements.

Triple A, St Thomas Street, Luqa.

Open Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 9am1pm.

T: 2125 7345/6/7; M: 7925 2350; E: triplealuqa@gmail.com; www.triplealuqa.com Beko and Balay Home Centre, Pioneer Road, Bugibba.

T: 2755 8882; M: 9922 0024.

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WINDOW SHOPPING

We make dogs happy because...

We know what they love. My very first dog found her own way to us.

She was called Schnappi, a sweet little mongrel. I fell in love with her instantly.

My love of dogs never left me and I have had three dogs of my own.

That is why, at Happy Dog, we do everything we can to produce healthy food for dogs. For every size, for every need and for every age.

The basis of healthy dog food is not just fresh meat. Natural products with health-promoting properties are indispensable for aiding optimum and speciesappropriate metabolism. The Happy Dog Natural Life Concept® combines these ingredients, ensuring that your dog is supplied with everything needed to benefit the body holistically – from a strong immune system to a healthy coat.

By Georg Müller, Owner and Managing Director of Happy Dog Happy Dog is available from all leading pet shops. For more information call on 2744 7799 or visit www.glad.com.mt

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EATING & DRINKING

COCKTAIL HOUR

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Whether you’re lounging on the beach with friends or unwinding after a long day’s work, there’s nothing quite like an ice-cold cocktail to quench your thirst this summer. Here are four delicious cocktails to try for yourself.

Cranberry Pomegranate Margarita INGREDIENTS 2 ounces Ocean Spray® Cran-Pomegranate™ Cranberry Pomegranate Juice Drink 1 ounce tequila 1/2 ounce orange-flavoured liqueur 1/2 ounce lime juice Orange zest 2 lime wedges Coarse salt

Kinnie Kiss INGREDIENTS 1 part Kinnie 2 parts Prosecco Optional: Soda or sparkling water

Directions Take a long drink glass or goblet, put in some ice and add two parts Prosecco.

Top up with Kinnie, and add soda or sparkling water for some extra fizz!

Directions In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the cranberry pomegranate juice drink, tequila, liqueur, lime juice and orange zest. Shake until well chilled.

Rub the rim of a margarita glass with a lime wedge. Dip in coarse salt. Strain the cocktail into the glass with ice. Garnish the rim of the glass with the remaining lime wedge.

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EATING & DRINKING Raspberry Collins INGREDIENTS 60ml Jodhpur Gin 8ml Teisseire sugar syrup 2 raspberries 30ml lemon juice 30ml soda water Directions In a highball glass, muddle the raspberries and sugar syrup. Add the gin and lemon juice, and stir.

Fill with ice and top with the soda water. Garnish with a lemon wheel, a mint sprig and two raspberries.

Jack Daniel’s Honey Ginger INGREDIENTS 1 part Jack Daniel’s Honey 3 parts Royal Club Ginger Ale Limes and lemons

Directions Pour the Jack Daniel’s Honey over some ice, preferably in a chilled glass or mug. Add the slices of lime and lemon, and top up with Royal Club Ginger Ale. Stir and serve.

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EATING & DRINKING

PHOTOS BY Federico Peltretti

Continental Cuisine

This three-course spread from chef Frans Vella at the Paradise Bay Resort Hotel uses some of the finest Mediterranean flavours, from the anisette in the pasta starter to the marinated rack of lamb prepared in the French way.

LINGUINE WITH BEEF AND ANISETTE INGREDIENTS 500g linguine 100g sun-dried tomatoes 100g mushrooms 150g strips of rib-eye beef 1 shot Anisette 1 onion, finely chopped Fresh cream

Method Shallow-fry the onion until golden brown. Add the strips of meat and cook to medium well, followed by the mushrooms and cook them through. Next, add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for a couple of minutes.

Cook the linguine in boiling water to your liking – ideally, al dente.

Just before serving, add the shot of Anisette to the sauce and flame to enhance the taste. Pour in a touch of cream and let it simmer for a few seconds.

Mix the linguine with the sauce until the pasta is completely coated, and serve.

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CLASSIC RACK OF LAMB Ingredients 1 or more Frenched lamb rib racks with 7 to 8 ribs each 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced Salt and pepper 2 tbsp olive oil

A rack of lamb is usually bought already ‘frenched’ – cut so that the rib bones are exposed. If not, you can ask your butcher to french them for you.

Method

Rub the rib racks all over with a mixture of rosemary, thyme and garlic. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. Spread olive oil on the racks until they are well coated and place in a thick plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can from the bag and seal. Place in a container so that if the bag leaks, the container catches the leak. You may place in the refrigerator overnight. Or, if you are not marinating overnight, let them sit in the rub marinade until they reach room temperature. If the meat is not at room temperature it will be hard for it to cook evenly.

Preheat oven to 230°C, arrange the oven rack so that the lamb will be in the middle of the oven. Score the fat by making sharp shallow cuts spaced about an inch apart, sprinkle with salt and pepper, wrap the bones in foil, and place in a pan fat side up. Wrap the exposed ribs in a little foil so that they don't burn.

Roast first at high heat (230°C) for around 10 minutes to brown, then lower the heat to 150°C. Cook for 10-20 minutes longer, depending on the size of the lamb rack, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat shows 55°C for rare or 60°C for medium rare. Remove from the oven, cover with foil and let rest for 15 minutes. Serve over grilled mixed vegetables and garnish with cherry tomatoes.

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FRUIT FLAN Ingredients For Crust: 2 1/8 cups allpurpose flour ½ tsp cream of tartar ½ tsp baking soda ½ cup white sugar ½ cup confectioner’s sugar ½ cup butter ½ cup vegetable oil 1 egg ½ tsp vanilla extract For Filling: 1 package cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup white sugar ½ tsp vanilla extract 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved

1 cup fresh blueberries 3 kiwis, peeled and thinly sliced For Glaze: 1 tbsp corn starch ¼ cup white sugar ½ cup water ½ cup orange juice 2 tbsp lemon juice

Method Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease a small roll pan for the crust. Sift together the flour, cream of tartar, and baking soda into a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, cream together the white and confectioner’s sugars, butter, vegetable oil, egg and vanilla extract.

Add the dry ingredients. Blend well to form a dough. Spread the dough evenly on the bottom of the greased pan. Bake until golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes. Allow to cool completely.

Mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Spread over the cooled crust. Arrange the fruit on the cream cheese filling and refrigerate.

For the glaze, mix the sugar and corn starch in a small saucepan. Whisk in the water, orange juice and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat and boil gently for one minute.

Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Spoon or brush the glaze evenly over the fruit. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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WHERE TO DINE

YOUR RESTAURANT GUIDE Tal-Puzzu Restaurant 11, Triq Gorg Borg Olivier (Main Street), Mellieha.

Reservations: T: 2754 4388; www.talpuzzu.com

Tal-Puzzu restaurant and pizzeria in Mellieha is the first in its area to offer wood-fired pizzas. This family-run restaurant offers tasty and mouth-watering pizzas using fresh ingredients with various toppings such as rucola, Parma ham and Maltese sausage, among others.

Apart from pizzas, Tal-Puzzu offers a selection of starters, salads, platters, pasta, home-made pure beef burgers, grills, rabbit, pork, chicken, duck and fish dishes. Specials of the house are offered daily.

Tal-Puzzu is perfect for meetings and events, an ideal place to meet family and friends, and a great place to savour home-made cooking. It is situated close to all the surrounding hotels in Mellieha and just a few minutes away from the popular Mellieha Bay. Outdoor seating is also available.

Melita Gardens Melita Gardens, Triq Idmejda, Balzan.

T: 2147 0663/4; E: info@melitagardens.com.mt

Melita Gardens is truly one of a kind – its vast gardens, spanning over 5,000 square metres, sit proudly and directly next door to San Anton Gardens, and since undergoing a change in management in July 2014, its popularity has continued to grow. To those unfamiliar with the establishment, Melita Gardens offers a delightful surprise behind its imposing walls. Its sheer size leaves you speechless, yet the magnificence of its gardens instantly gives you a sense of peace and tranquillity.

Three separate entrances lead to a different area of Melita Gardens, all of which are interconnected. There is the main formal restaurant, the cafeteria/pizzeria and the Mezzanin Wine Lounge, all with both indoor and outdoor seating. Open all day, every day from 10am (except for Mezzanin Lounge which is closed on Monday), Melita Gardens is always buzzing with energy and attracts crowds of all ages.

Il-Veduta Open: 11am-11.30pm daily.

Il-Veduta, Is-Saqqajja, Rabat.

T: 2145 4666/2145 3656; Deliveries: T: 2145 5500; E: info@veduta.com.mt; www.veduta.com.mt

Ta’ Cenc il-Kantra Lido, Gozo Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa T: 2219 1000; Kantra Lido M: 7987 3787; E: info@tacenchotel.com

Unparalleled views As the name implies, Il-Veduta is blessed with unparalleled views of two-thirds of Malta, directly overlooking the countryside and distant sea. Situated just outside the fortifications of Malta’s old capital, Mdina, the restaurant has become a household name among families looking for the perfect Sunday lunch venue. The spacious establishment, with indoor and outdoor seating, is split on three levels that can cater for large groups of up to 300 people. The third floor can be used for private functions of up to 100 people. The diverse menu consists of a vast selection of delicious Mediterranean fare, with a variety of starters, pizzas, pastas and grills, all modestly priced. Il-Veduta also offers a delivery service, for customers to enjoy the enticing menu from the comfort of their homes. Delivery menus can be viewed on Veduta’s accessible website.

Known for hundreds of years as ‘il-Kantra’ because of its natural beauty and clear waters, the rocky fjord inlet of Mgarr ix-Xini is home to Il-Kantra Lido Bar and Restaurant that forms part of the Ta’ Cenc territory.

This spectacular area was recently discovered by Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt who chose a large part of the stunning Ta’ Cenc terrain as the setting for their movie ‘By the Sea’, while making full use of the Kantra Lido as their hideout and safe haven.

While enjoying breath-taking views of the other Maltese islands, you can enjoy an excellent lunch or dinner at Il-Kantra Restaurant, which offers the very best of Sicilian as well as local cuisines, using the finest offerings of fresh fish and the most tender cuts of meat. A truly unique dining experience awaits you in one of nature’s most beautiful settings. Make a promise to yourself right now to visit and experience this true Maltese gem. Il-Kantra is waiting to indulge you.

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BEAUTY

New hair, new you!

Whether it’s for fashion tips or the latest hair and beauty trends, many look towards celebrities for inspiration to update their look. Seeking to give your hairstyle an overhaul? Sarah Micallef takes a look at some of the best celebrity hair transformations of 2016 to help inspire your next hairstyle.

Summer is a time to have fun, and that’s also true when it comes to your look! If your hair is looking a little dull or you’re bored of the same old style, this summer is the perfect time to try something new. Here’s some inspiration from celebrities who have had a little fun with their hair this year.

LILY COLLINS

After chopping her long locks in favour of a short crop last year, the actress’ hair has now grown to a long bob, but while she’s growing it out, that doesn’t mean she still can’t have fun with colour! She did just that by going from a natural-looking brown to a fiery red, which looks gorgeous against her porcelain skin. If you’ve got a similar complexion, this is a great one to consider.

EMMA ROBERTS

Summer always brings the temptation to go lighter, and that’s just what Emma Roberts did in June, debuting a shorter, lighter look that is a huge change from her former strawberryblonde mid-length style. If you’re going for the chop this summer, don’t be afraid to go a couple of shades lighter too – it’s bound to make the transformation all the more fun!

SELENA GOMEZ

Popstar Selena Gomez is another celebrity that chose to lighten things up for the summer, giving her long hair some added dimension.

Selena went from a very dark brown to a warm caramel tone which is perfect for those long summer days (and nights). If you can’t bear to cut your locks, you can still achieve a great transformation by lightening things up like Selena.

ROONEY MARA

You can’t get more drastic than Rooney Mara’s recent hair transformation – going from her signature jet black to a white platinum blonde.

You’ll definitely need guts for this one, but boy does it look cool, and seems to be THE hair colour of the summer, with both Emma Stone and Miley Cyrus jumping on the bandwagon. Just make sure you get it done by a stylist you trust and be careful with the bleach!

IGGY AZALEA

Earlier this year, Australian rapper Iggy Azalea swapped out her trademark blonde hair for an edgy pink hue, and she’s not the only one.

Other celebs that have sported the colour in the past include Cate Blanchett, Rachel McAdams, Blake Lively, Hilary Duff, Rita Ora and Rihanna. Definitely a fun one to try for the summer! BB

CHANGE YOUR LOOK WITHOUT DAMAGING YOUR HAIR Hair transformations, particularly when they involve bleach, can be stressful for your hair, but there are ways you can avoid wrecking your beloved locks in the process. Choosing a trustworthy stylist who will use products that are kind to your hair and suitable for your particular hair type is a great start, followed by regular maintenance and nourishing treatments to keep your hair looking its best. The harsh summer sun can also damage your hair, leaving it dry and brittle, so when you spend time outdoors, be sure to look after your hair as well as your skin by using protective products and shielding your tresses with a hat whenever possible.

BEST BUY RECOMMENDS Bronze Fever

PUPA Limited Edition Bronze Fever Summer Collection will complement your stylish looks through the summer season.

The Face and Body Highlighter enhances the complexion with a light touch of colour, for a toneon-tone make-up look and a naturally tanned effect.

Vamp Intense Kajal intensifies the gaze, and the eyes are absolute protagonists with six pure, pigmented and luminous colours of Made to Last Eyeshadows in a stick formulation which is water and humidityproof, and alcohol-free. Balmy Oils delicately colour the lips and deeply nourish them, with a formulation containing raspberry seed oil. Lasting Colour Gels complete the look with ultra-shiny nails and a 3D volumising effect.

All PUPA products are hypoallergenic, ophthalmologically tested, paraben-free and not tested on animals. Available in selected pharmacies and perfumeries.

Medimports. T: 2148 3139; E: medeva@go.net.mt; Fb: Pupa Milano in Malta

STYLES THAT SUIT YOUR LOOK

Hairoscope is known for creative, classic and contemporary hair designs. We believe in styling hair that’s elegant and beautiful. Whether natural, classic, tousled or sleek and sexy, we aim for hair that is always stunning to look at and easy to manage. Our goal at Hairoscope is to create hairstyles that suit and show off your personality. While it may take courage to change your image, we give you the freedom to choose, talk through and discuss your new hairstyle.

Remember, reinventing our look keeps us interesting to others and to ourselves.

Joe Briffa, Hairoscope, Prof A Tabone Street, Birzebbugia. M: 9922 4750; E: jobriffa@gmail.com

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