ISSUE 87
bestbuy.
AUGUST 6, 2014
your MONTHLY shopping guide distributed with The Times
IN THIS
HEALTH & FITNESS.
ISSUE...
COOL FOODS
Living with diabetes Diabetes, or Diabetes Mellitus, is a disorder of the metabolism where the body has trouble using glucose for energy. When we eat, our body breaks down foods known as carbohydrates (fruits, vegetables, breads, pastas, dairy and sweets) into glucose, which is sent to our cells through the bloodstream. When our body’s systems detect glucose in the blood (particularly during a meal or snack times), an organ called the pancreas releases an appropriate amount of a hormone called insulin, which makes it possible for our cells to absorb glucose and provide the energy that our body and brain need to function. Type 1 diabetes is a disorder of the body’s immune system that results from the pancreas not producing any insulin and is currently managed with a rigid therapy of artificial insulin that is usually self-administered. Type 1 diabetes represents only 5-10 per cent of all diagnosed cases. Type 2 diabetes results when the body does not respond appropriately to insulin. This more common (90-95 per cent of all cases) variety of diabetes often runs in families or racial
groups, but can also be caused by poor diet and an inactive lifestyle. Managing diabetes requires the careful, regular and frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels along with the appropriate therapy and diet as prescribed by your physician. Several devices are nowadays available to assist in returning any diabetic to an independent, safe and high quality lifestyle. These devices include home glucose monitors, continuous glucose monitoring systems and wearable insulin pumps. For further information contact Technoline Ltd on T: 2134 4345.
TRENDS. SUMMER FASHION & BEAUTY
EATING & DRINKING.
TRADITIONAL TASTES
WIN a Billi dollar b on r treatmentow & make-up with ayur • v eda on PG 7
INTERVIEW. Meet CONDUCTOR BRIAN SCHEMBRI
Samsung Galaxy Tab S – Immerse yourself in a world of colour Welcome to the Galaxy Tab S, Samsung’s flagship tablet for 2014. Available in 8.4and 10.5-inch sizes, it comes armed with the best possible specs, including a stunning 2,560 x 1,600 Super AMOLED screen, 12-hour battery life and a slim build that measures just 6.6mm in thickness. In addition, Samsung added a fingerprint reader (which is still a rarity on tablets) and free goodies such as popular magazines, Dropbox storage and a six-month Wall Street Journal subscription. Thanks to its breath-taking detail-oriented display, you can see movies and games pop with vivid colours, dark shadows and stunning contrast on the 10.5-inch display. With four times the pixels of an HDTV, the screen also keeps everything clear by auto-adjusting brightness levels based on where you are and what you’re viewing. An ultra-thin build with a comfortable design makes this tablet difficult to put down. Lightweight and perfect for travel, it connects seamlessly with other Galaxy products for you to effortlessly share photos and videos from wherever you are.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S is also incredibly familyfriendly. With Multi User Mode, everyone in the family can create a private and personalised tablet experience that can be secured with the fingerprint scanner. And for those wanting to keep the little ones entertained, Kids Mode lets you customise playtime and apps with parental controls.
The bottom line is that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S is good; really good. With a long battery life, a stunning screen and an especially thin and light design, it earns its place as an excellent piece of kit. Exclusively distributed by Sound Machine – www.soundmachine.com.mt
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ISSUE 87 - AUGUST 06, 2014
Time to kick back As we make our way through the peak summer month here on the island, where everything tends to slow down a little and we attempt to make the most of a few days off here or a holiday there, the Best Buy team has been busy putting together an edition that you are bound to find useful and enjoyable.
NEXT ISSUE:
10.09.14 DOn'T MISS IT
A health and fitness article on page 4 focuses on nutritious summer foods that are easy to make or buy – foods that are best enjoyed on a hot day, are refreshingly tasty and do not compromise our waistlines, such as wholesome smoothies made with the freshest of ingredients.
We also lay out different styles that suit different body shapes, helping you find the style that best suits your figure. Our star personality this month is none other than Brian Schembri, music director and consultant of Teatru Manoel, and artistic director and principal conductor of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. He is easily one of the most influential people involved in the island’s classical music scene today – he chats about his father’s influence on his career, people who inspired him, and the one thing he would never buy. Enjoy the issue.
Leaf through to page 8 and take tips from a fashion feature that discusses a variety of this season’s latest trends, ranging from swimwear to hit the beach in style to the season’s hottest footwear and beauty trends.
Publishers
Content House Group Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel. T: +356 2132 0713 F: +356 2132 0714 E: info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt Advertising Advertising Sales Executives Mark Barbara, Caroline Gauci Advertising Sales Coordinator Lindsey Ciantar DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar Printer Progress Press Ltd
The healthy yogurt Bennalife yogurt is the first product in the Bennalife range of health-boosting fresh dairy foods which includes plant sterols – natural extracts that lower cholesterol levels by blocking the absorption of cholesterol from food. A single cup a day of Bennalife yogurt with added plant sterols provides the necessary 2g dose of plant sterols needed to help lower cholesterol levels by up to 10 per cent in three weeks.
Bennalife yogurt is made from fresh skimmed local milk and is sweetened with acesulfame-K and sucralose, making it suitable for diabetics and individuals who are watching their fat and calorie intake. It is available in strawberryvanilla and peach-pomegranate flavours, and is sold in convenient packs of two 125g cups, offering excellent value for money.
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HEALTH & FITNESS.
The Cool Factor As summer days are in their peak with soaring temperatures, we quickly turn our attention to icy, cooling foods and drinks that hydrate and replenish, and are full of goodness. Martina Said looks into some of the tastiest options around. alternative to water. “The water is actually obtained by opening a tender, green, healthy and undamaged coconut. Inside, the clear liquid is sweet and sterile, and composed of unique chemicals such as natural sugars, vitamins, minerals and electrolytes. This pure liquid is packed with nutrients that yield an array of health benefits.”
S
ome foods are best enjoyed in the midst of summer – nothing compares to a cooling, velvety ice-cream savoured in a spot of shade on the beach, but often enough, all that is delicious and rich isn’t the best option for our waistlines.
might be pleasantly surprised with the result of mixing unconventional items together, but be sure to bear in mind the proportions of each item so as to avoid an over-bearing flavour or an unpleasant consistency.
With a dose of planning and preparation, however, there are plenty of tasty summer treats, including ice-cream, that are refreshing, healthy and easy to prepare without causing havoc in the kitchen. Others still are easily available to buy, making life better and tastier in the process.
This healthy product which is available to buy is a growing craze – one that’s been adopted by many around the world for its believed health benefits and lifestyle improvements. Mark Morales of Los Primos, which imports coconut water, says this drink is the ultimate thirst quencher and offers a tasty
Smoothies No other drink is as pleasing and guiltlessly satisfying as a beautifully blended smoothie, which is capable of packing in enough nutrients necessary for one day. Smoothies could easily be put together at home with a blender or specialised smoothie maker, but a few simple tricks will help guarantee an excellent result. Firstly, all ingredients must be fresh, in order to get the best taste possible, and to maximise the amount of nutrients per fruit or veg. Locally grown produce is recommended, and while fruit is best consumed within three days of having bought it, vegetables can last up to five days. The blender you use can also impact the flavour, as a sharp and fast smoothie blender will be better equipped to break down certain harder items such as granola and nuts. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different flavours – you
Coconut water
Mark explains that, despite being very light in consistency, coconut water has a more proportionate composition of minerals such as calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium and zinc than some fruit juices. “Its liquid is also a very good source of B-complex vitamins, such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pyridoxine and folates. These vitamins are essential in the sense that the human body requires them from external sources to replenish. The good amount of electrolyte potassium found within also helps replenish during exercise.”
Popsicles When it comes to frozen treats, popsicles are especially popular because they’re easy to make, cost-
effective and do their bit in cooling us down. Children are especially keen about popsicles as they make great thirst quenchers and come in a variety of colours and flavours. Keep things fresh and fun using fruits that are easily available and in season, namely melons, watermelons and peaches. Alternatively, you could get creative in the kitchen and attempt a striped popsicle with three different fruits layered atop each other, say a melon base, kiwi centre and strawberry top. Recipes are easy to find online – a quick search will land you an assortment of different ones which should last you through the summer.
Sorbet is also quite a treat, offering a greater balance of smooth creaminess and ice in comparison to popsicles, but is an equally refreshing and healthy alternative to ice-cream that can be packed with whole pieces of fruit or seedy bits. If you’re craving a delicious ice-cream, however, but would like to avoid excessive amounts of cream and calories, then consider making a portion at home with ingredients of your choice, allowing you to opt for low-fat dairy instead of the fullfat stuff, which will still give you delicious results.
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ISSUE 86 - JULY 09, 2014
PHOTOS BY LIONEL GALEA
E-book or paperback? With the widening appeal of the e-book and e-readers like the kindle, there seems to be a divide among diehard paperback lovers and new-school digital readers. Best Buy asks what readers prefer. Robert Radmilli, St Julian’s
Gabriel Busuttil, Attard
Given the option, would you rather read a paperback or an e-book? I prefer the feel of a paperback. What types of books do you enjoy reading most? Mostly thrillers and crime stories. Would you like to own a kindle? No I wouldn’t. I have an e-reader but I don’t use it.
Given the option, would you rather read a paperback or an e-book? Paperback – I prefer to feel the paper. What types of books do you enjoy reading most? I like action and comedy mostly. Would you like to own a kindle? No, not really.
Anne Marie Saliba, Hamrun
Nicole Vassallo, Attard
Given the option, would you rather read a paperback or an e-book? Definitely a paperback – I’m not really into technology. What types of books do you enjoy reading most? I like mystery and action stories. Would you like to own a kindle? I would give it a try.
Given the option, would you rather read a paperback or an e-book? I like the feel of a paperback book. What types of books do you enjoy reading most? I enjoy comedies and romantic novels. Would you like to own a kindle? I would try it.
Peter Farrugia, Valletta
Fares Elgaroushi, Libya
Given the option, would you rather read a paperback or an e-book? I like both – e-books for academic ease and paperbacks for tactile joy. What types of books do you enjoy reading most? Mainly academic books within my areas of interest and novels. Would you like to own a kindle? Not really, my iPad is more than enough.
Given the option, would you rather read a paperback or an e-book? I prefer a paperback as it’s always there. E-readers can run out of charge. What types of books do you enjoy reading most? I mainly read action stories or religious texts. Would you like to own a kindle? I would give it a go – it might be better than the iPhone.
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VOX POP.
LAST MONTH'S WINNING LETTER Last month we asked you to write in and tell us why you or a nominee deserve to win a relaxing spa treatment for two persons provided by Carisma Spa and Wellness International. The winning reply was from Josephine Debono
This month we invite you to write in and tell us why you or a nominee deserve to win a great prize from Ayur • Veda, organic wellbeing and threading experts.
The first reply will win a Billion Dollar Brow treatment and brow make-up, worth ¤75. Billion Dollar Brows is the must-have brow treatment straight from Beverly Hills. The use of the Brow Buddy, a patented tool, helps create the perfect arch as, unlike brow stencils, the Brow Buddy uses your unique facial symmetry to take the guesswork out of shaping the perfect brow. So if your brows are over-plucked, misshapen or sparse, Billion Dollar Brow treatment is ideal. The prize is courtesy of Ayur • Veda, Regional Road, St Venera. T: 2722 4455; M: 9922 4455; www.ayurveda.com.mt Send your contribution and contact details (name, address and telephone number) by not later than Monday 25th August 2014. Write to: Best Buy Competition, Content House Ltd, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel QRM3000 or email info@contenthouse.com.mt
“Both my husband and I recently celebrated our 53rd birthdays, myself in July and my husband in August. Therefore, I am writing in for us both to enjoy this lovely spa treatment as a birthday gift. We usually go on a day trip to Comino, but would be happy to enjoy a new and different relaxing experience at the spa this year, away from the hot sun.”
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TRENDS.
The best of summer trends Looking great is down to a whole package – an inspiring combination of fashionable clothing, footwear and accessories, not to mention hair and make-up. Sarah Micallef takes you through this season’s pick of what’s hot – from the ultimate swimwear to hit the beach in style to the season’s LATest footwear and beauty trends. can go a long way toward complementing our outfit and completing the perfect look – be it for lounging at a beachside café or partying in an open-air venue when the sun goes down. According to Michael Darmanin, of Darmanin Footwear, the latest footwear trends this season are “espadrilles (which are very popular in Spain and France) and a hybrid style (a mix between espadrilles and Moccasins), which have hit the Maltese market this summer and became quite popular among the younger generation.” As for a classic
BEACHWEAR Beach-side fashion is often an extension of regular fashion trends, with top trends of the season affecting the cuts and styles of the summer’s most popular swimwear. This summer, the clean lines and minimal aesthetic of the 90s and sport luxe trends lend themselves beautifully to swimsuits and bikinis. Girls with curves can also rejoice, as retro styling and sexy cut-outs are also very popular, ensuring there’s a fabulous choice of swimwear for every figure. Sporty chic Look out for swimwear that features mesh, zippers or bold colours if you’re looking to cut an athletic figure on the beach this summer. Clean lines and colour blocking also set this trend apart, as well as interesting cuts such as high-
neck and racer back variants. Sexy cut-outs If you want to look hot on the beach and show off your assets, a string bikini or cutout swimsuit could be just the thing. If you’re concerned about keeping things in place, you could also consider swimwear featuring sheer details or mesh inserts, giving a peek without being too risqué. Retro diva The 50s silhouette is great for girls who want to celebrate their curves. High-waisted bikinis are everywhere this summer, which cover your tummy while revealing the smallest part of your waist. Other fun retro details include delicate belts, and moulded bustier tops, which give the look even more va-va-voom.
Cover up Need to throw something on over your bikini to get a bite to eat? The must-have cover up this summer is the Easterninspired kimono in a bold colour or pretty print. If you’re looking to add a little boho flavour, crocheted and lace kaftans are also having a fashionable moment.
FOOTWEAR Our choice of footwear
choice of footwear that never goes out of style, he recommends wedges, maintaining, “wedges were invented in the 30s in Italy and have never gone out of style. They are an all year rounder and are also popular in summer with peep toe wedges or sandal wedges.” As for what to avoid, he cites, “footwear with studs, beads and crystals have really decreased in popularity this season.”
BEAUTY Looking good is not all about what you wear however: hair and beauty are equally important. Aside from caring for your hair and skin by protecting them from the sun and treating them to regular regenerating treatments, makeup also plays a part in creating the perfect look. With the summer heat, make-up can be a bit of a headache – which is where semi-permanent makeup can lend a helping hand. Michelle Spiteri of Pebbles Beauty Clinic highlights the benefits. “Semi permanent make-up is an established beauty procedure in which permanent pigments are carefully applied to the skin,” she explains. The make-up lasts up to five years, and uses range from achieving the perfect eyebrows without relying on pencil to outlining your eyes and giving your lips a full pout. If you worry about your perfectly pencilled eyebrows disappearing when you go swimming, or melting in the summer heat, Michelle can also fix that – reconstructing and shaping eyebrows using a realistic hair stroke technique. “Perfectly defined eyebrows give the complexion a groomed, fresh and youthful appearance,” she maintains. And the same goes for eye-liner: “with semipermanent make-up you can say goodbye to smudges and smears, and wake up with beautifully defined eyes.”
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EATING & DRINKING.
YOUR RESTAURANT GUIDE Browns
Il-Kartell Restaurant
“One of the nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever we're doing and devote our attention to eating” – Luciano Pavarotti... and Browns Kitchen Malta is the place to do so.
Kartell opened its doors in 1973, and was a rather small, rustic and warm restaurant, consisting of three boathouses connected together by arches. Since then, we have strived to provide the best possible food served in a unique seashore location, and to pamper our patrons by our capable crew. The menu offers a wide variety of freshly made soups, salads, hot and cold starters followed by main courses and desserts. If you prefer to taste something different, ask for the day's specialty. Our dishes are based on traditional Mediterranean cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local recipes.
Original, exceptional and tasty food is served every time – that's our commitment. Since December 2012, Browns’ new management and its team have been striving to deliver the best quality food and service possible in order to satisfy all of our customers in all aspects. We specialise in fresh fish, premium cuts of Irish beef and much more. We cater for all kinds of occasions including staff parties, birthday celebrations, bachelors’ and hens’ parties, large groups and any other functions where we provide tailor-made set menus depending on our customers’ budgets and requirements. Seating is available inside and outdoors, enjoying breath-taking views of the Grand Harbour. Open: Monday to Sunday from 10am till late. Kitchen open all day. T: 2122 7410/2702 0471; www.browns.com.mt; facebook.com/brownswaterfront
We like to think that our service is a prompt and friendly one, though we value any suggestions that you may put forward to improve the entire dining experience. Our mission is to create a relaxing atmosphere where tourists, locals and families enjoy sumptuous cuisine, feast their eyes on the blue Mediterranean sea and unwind in the cool breeze. It is recommended to reserve a table beforehand to avoid disappointment. Open: Lunch: 11.30am-3.30pm; Dinner: 5.30pm-10.30pm. Closed for lunch on Wednesday. Il-Kartell Restaurant, Marina Street, Marsalforn, Gozo. T: 2155 6918; M: 7900 1965; E: info@il-kartellrestaurant.com; www.il-kartellrestaurant.com; facebook.com/ilkartellrestaurant
Giuseppi’s Restaurant
Palazzo Preca
Giuseppi’s Restaurant is found in the heart of Mellieha. Run by chef patron Michael Diacono, it has gained a well-deserved reputation for serving up authentic Maltese and Mediterranean food. Michael uses his imagination to create a balanced and well thought-out menu which is seasonal and uses only local produce whenever possible.
Palazzo Preca has been awarded twice as one of the best 40 restaurants in Malta since recently opening in November 2012. Palazzo Preca is situated in charming Strait Street, within a beautiful 16th-century palazzo. We specialise in local and Mediterranean cuisines and offer an extensive and creative menu featuring mouth-watering choices of food, as well as daily specials on the board and homemade desserts. Professional, dedicated and attentive staff will help you to ensure that your visit to Palazzo Preca is a completely enjoyable experience. Wednesday night is our special night as we turn off the lights and the restaurant is lit up entirely by candles, creating an intimate and romantic ambience.
This multiple award-winning restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday evenings from 7.30pm. Giuseppi’s Restaurant, George Borg Olivier Street, Mellieha. T: 2157 4882; M: 9949 3579; E: info@giuseppismalta.com
Open all week except Monday all day and Sunday evening during winter. Same opening times during summer and also open on Sunday evening. Bookings are recommended. Palazzo Preca, 54, Strait Street, Valletta. T: 2122 6777; M: 9986 6640; www. palazzoprecarestaurant.com
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ISSUE 87 - AUGUST 06, 2014
PHOTOS BY LIONEL GALEA
Traditional Scrumptiousness Using timeless local ingredients and time-honoured recipes, the chef at Le Malte prepares a threecourse meal that is sure to invoke fond childhood memories, while creating new ones. Maltese Pork Stew Ingredients 250g fresh pork loin, chopped into cubes 1 medium onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, chopped 1 medium carrot, chopped 1 teaspoon salt and pepper 100g peas
2 medium potatoes, chopped 100g Maltese sausage, sliced thickly 50g bacon, chopped 1 whole peppered Gozo cheeselet, sliced 200g plum tomato sauce 250ml water
Method Fry the chopped onions, garlic, carrots and potatoes until brown, and season with some salt and pepper. Add the pork, bacon and Maltese sausage, and fry until sealed. Pour the water and leave to
simmer for 30 minutes. Add the peas and plum tomato sauce, and leave to simmer for a further 15 minutes. Once ready to eat, add the sliced peppered Gozo cheeselet.
Maltese Aperitif Fried Gozitan Cheese Ingredients Fresh Gozo cheeselet 1 egg 100g breadcrumbs 100g flour
200g fresh plum tomato sauce 1 Maltese bread loaf, sliced 20g garlic butter
Method Whisk the egg thoroughly. Dip the Gozo cheeselet in the flour, egg mixture and breadcrumbs, and deep-fry until crispy. Toast the Maltese bread and spread garlic butter on top. Top the cheeselet with tomato sauce and serve with the bread.
Ingredients 3 ice cubes 25cl anisette 25ml orange juice 25ml Kinnie 15ml red wine Method Place the ice cubes in a glass, pour one shot of anisette, orange juice and Kinnie, and top carefully with red wine.
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EATING & DRINKING.
Imqaret and Ice Cream Ingredients Pastry: 650g plain flour 175g margarine 85g sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon baking powder Filling: 360g dates, pitted and chopped Grated rind of 1 orange Aniseed liquor Orange-blossom water Method Sift the flour together with the baking powder and rub margarine into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add sugar and mix well. Bind it with the beaten egg to make a dough, and leave to rest for 30 minutes. For the filling, place all the ingredients into a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally. Allow to simmer until the mixture becomes creamy. Remove it from the heat, pour into a bowl and leave to cool. Put the pastry on a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a 10cm wide strip. Moisten the edges of the pastry, and put the date mixture in the middle of the strip of pastry, fold over to enclose the date filling and press the edges together tightly. With a sharp knife, cut diagonally across the pastry into 5cm long diamond shapes. If frying, deep-fry them for two minutes until golden brown and if baking, set the oven temperature to 250Ëš and place in an oven tray for ten minutes until golden brown. Serve with one scoop of fig ice-cream on the side.
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BEST BUYS.
recoMMeNded beSt bUyS thiS aUgUSt Cool in summer, dry in winter Berger CoolRoofs possesses outstanding durability and high-degree heat insulation properties, therefore keeping homes and offices cool in summer. It can help you save money and help the environment by reducing your energy use: in summer, it keeps your home or office cool by reflecting more of the sun’s energy back into the atmosphere, thus allowing you to reduce air conditioning costs.
Berger CoolRoofs also has the ability to cover hairline cracks. The product can be applied to existing coatings and various surfaces, namely concrete, plaster, timber, steel and other metals. Berger CoolRoofs can easily be applied by brush or roller. For more information visit www.coolroofs.com.mt or E: info@berger.com.mt
During the Winter months, CoolRoofs insulating properties keeps the heat from escaping your home interior, as well as keeping moisture out. Due to its high resistance to water ponding, CoolRoofs also acts as an excellent waterproofer throughout the winter months. It’s high flexibility keeps cracks covered, hence protecting your roof from moisture penetration and roof damage, therefore keeps your home dry in Winter.
If you are more interested in getting into a great workout while reducing stress and boredom, and hanging out with friends, we invite you to join our variety of 60-minute fitness classes led by our energetic and professional staff. Group
At Royal Canin, we’ve gone above and beyond to ensure precise nutritional solutions for dogs and cats through a state-of-the-art drying system. This ensures that every kibble has a consistent and even level of moisture, with little chance of moulding. This includes in-depth sampling of each product and final quality tests using the NIRS system that meets precision in nutritional requirements. A Chicken By-Product Meal is produced through a process of cooking, drying and separating fats and proteins from animal carcasses, and contains a dehydrated combination of meat including lungs, spleen, kidneys, brain and livers among others. Royal Canin’s by-products are sourced from dedicated slaughterhouses and are composed of clean, fresh parts from
animals that have been veterinarianinspected and deemed healthy prior to slaughter. Royal Canin never uses 4-D meat, which include dead, dying, disabled or diseased animals. All the nutrients in pet food add value to the food, including carbohydrates, proteins and nutrients coming from grains, which provide fibre and other nutrients. Fibre is very important in the diet to maintain the health of the gastrointestinal tract, while other nutrients contribute to healthy skin and a healthy coat. Royal Canin (40 years of expertise in health nutrition) is represented by Borg Cardona & Co. Ltd available in leading pet shops and garden centres. Customer care: mail@borg-cardona.com
Graco EVO 2-in-1 Travel System at HomeTrends Baby & Kids
Get in shape At 24/7 Fitness Club Mellieha, we are committed to helping you invest wisely in your health. We'll help you achieve this through group classes and friendly qualified fitness trainers, including our in-house physiotherapist, who will gladly prepare a personalised workout programme for you. The club is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment and strength machines.
Picking the best dog food Get a sneak peak at Royal Canin
exercise classes are aimed at improving your cardiovascular health, muscular strength and endurance while also improving flexibility. Group classes (included in the membership fee), are held every day from Monday to Thursday between 6.30 and 8.30pm (Wednesday classes start at 5.30pm). At 24/7 Fitness Club Mellieha, we aim to be more than just a fitness club and more of a fitness community. Remember, HEALTHY is HAPPY! Triq Qasam Barrani, Mellieha. T: 2704 1555; E: info@fitnessclub247.com
HomeTrends has introduced the Graco Pushchair and Baby Car Seat to its range of products – the One Click closing Graco chassis weighs 7.5kgs and comes complete with a shopping tray. The pushchair is reversible and comes complete with a rain-cover and foot-muff at a special price of €299. Also available is the Graco 3-in-1 system which also includes the pram at a special price of €399. Graco Travel Systems are available in red, grey or beige.
At HomeTrends Baby & Kids, one can find a large selection of Maxi-Cosi travel systems and car seats, nurseries, baby accessories and kids fantasy bedrooms. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm; Saturday 9am to 5pm. Visit us at HomeTrends Baby & Kids, Industrial Estate, San Gwann. T: 2144 5654; E: shop@hometrends.com.mt; www.hometrendsbabyandkids.com.mt
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INTERVIEW.
ISSUE 87 - AUGUST 06, 2014
PHOTO BY MARIO MINTOFF - PHOTOCITY
The Conductor Music director and consultant of Teatru Manoel, and artistic director and principal conductor of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, Brian Schembri, chats to Jo Caruana about his incredible career to date.
W
ith his wild hair and vivacious personality, Brian Schembri has become a true symbol of the classical music scene in Malta – and beyond.
he has also conducted opera productions with the Opera Nomade in Paris, the National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Lvov and the Opera Hong Kong, to name but a few.
In fact, Schembri has made his mark all over the world, whether as guest conductor for the London Mozart Players, the Lithuanian State Symphony Orchestra or the G7 Summit Concert in Lyon. Beyond that,
“I have loved all of these exciting moments in my career so far,” smiles the conductor, “and the past few months have been especially thrilling, with major projects in Hong Kong, Italy and Russia. Plus my
appointments to the Teatru Manoel and Malta Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) have also meant the world to me.” What is your earliest memory of music? My father Carmelo is a musician and, in his younger days, was very active on the local jazz band milieu; that said, he always cultivated his musical talents with classical music studies. Aside from playing alto sax and clarinet in practically all the important local clubs in Malta, along with the likes of Oscar Lucas, Joe Farr, Paul Arnaud, Xerkarm and others, he was one of the very few musicians who was practically overloaded with top diplomas for clarinet playing and teaching. He eventually even integrated the MPO’s ancestor orchestra, ‘l-Orkestra tal-Armirall’, as it was called. So, my first memories of music would definitely be of my father practicing, composing at the piano and giving private lessons. Then there were the Sunday afternoon teas in venues where my father would be entertaining with one of his bands. They are all very happy memories. Can you remember the day you knew music would be the career path for you? I definitely remember the summer holiday when my mother, who was rushed off her feet with four children to look after, made sure I practiced
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INTERVIEW.
for at least half-an-hour each day. That time slot got longer and longer, and it seemed to become hard labour and a life sentence before I knew it! By the time I was 15, though, I had obtained my Licentiate of the Royal School of Music, and had begun to believe that music would have a very important place in my life. It was in my inner musical world that I really felt I knew what I was supposed to be doing. Then the dice were cast and I travelled to the exUSSR to complete my high-level studies in piano, conducting and composition. Is there anyone who inspired your career? My father was, and still is, very present in my musical and professional life. In fact my family members have all been very influential – sometimes too much for my tastes, especially as I am the youngest. Of course, the incredible people who trained me also left their mark – among them my teachers in Kiev and Moscow, Snegiriov, Dorensky, Kofman and Rozhdestvensky, and, later, well known artists and composers like Silvestrov, Schnittke, Bashmet, Kabalewsky and Nikolaeva. When I later emigrated to France I worked with eminent conductors like Plasson, Krivine, Jordan and Temirkanov, who all left a very deep imprint on my own way of living my music vocation. Naturally I have my idols too, particularly Beethoven, Sibelius, Shostakovich, Shakespeare, Dante, Michelangelo and, well, the list goes on! How do you spend your down time? Doing nothing – I like to pass the time thinking, contemplating and walking; this gives me the space to drain out the negative aspects of my notalways-easy-going profession. What music do you listen to in the car? Jazz, mostly. What's your favourite thing in your whole house? My privacy, relative solitude and calm. If you could perform with anyone, who would you pick? In opera it would definitely be the late Italian tenor Tito Schipa; in concerto, it would be the late Soviet-Russian classical pianist Vladimir Sofronitsky or Latvian violinist Philippe Hirschhorn, who passed away in 1996. There are others, of course, but these three men really fit the bill; I can’t really
explain the connection I have to them in words. If you were advising a friend to see one annual cultural event anywhere in the world, what would it be and why? Aside from my concerts you mean…? Well, these days there are so many opportunities to travel and enjoy incredible festivals with important orchestras and performers
that I really don’t know where to start. Naturally, I would encourage everyone to support the great and difficult work of the MPO; it is really very exciting to see what is being achieved. What would be your last meal? Over the years I have been fortunate enough to dig in to some really amazing meals
concocted by passionate gourmet friends, famous chefs and, of course, my mother, who would present an array of timpana, koxxa l-forn, laham fuq il-fwar and minestra. So I have enjoyed my fair share of epicurean delights and I am quite satisfied. Plus, if I knew it were to be my last meal, food would likely be the least of my worries.
What would you never buy? A career advancement. That said, I wouldn’t buy anything if I didn’t have to. I find basing civilization on the concept of buying and selling to be very primitive, however important the world system seems to think it is.
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MOTORING.
Help your Car Survive the Summer Heat Martina Said discusses the importance of MOTOR VEHICLE care in the peak of a sweltering summer.
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t is a safe assumption 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.
Darren Dalli, owner of Hilltop Garage – specialising in ovenbaked spray painting, panel beating, bumper repairs, windscreen replacement, vehicle polish, AC service and refilling as well as towing – says the most common problems caused by the heat during summer are engine failure due to thermostat and water system failure, as well as paint oxidising. In relation to the paint, he explains “the spray should be protected by polishing and wax-treating your car twice a year – ideally once before summer with a three-stage polish, and again with a onestage polish after summer. A simple but effective way
of caring for the paint is to leave the car in the shade for at least one hour before washing it so that it cools down, and to ensure cleaning supplies such as sponges and towels are clean as they can leave small scratches on the paint if dirty.” He adds that, whenever possible, parking indoors is always a better option, especially when parking for long periods, and to avoid parking under trees as sap and bird droppings damage the paint, as does sea salt which leads to rust, therefore avoid parking by a waterfront too.
TOP TIP Treating your motor v ehicle a gainst corrosio n is a m ust, especia lly if it's a used, im ported vehicle. “With regards to the engine, it is important that all hoses are checked. As the weather warms up, the vehicle is likely to be exposed to some pretty severe heat, which means that the cooling system will be under increased pressure to keep everything at the right
temperature. Therefore, there shouldn’t be any cracks and cuts in the hoses,” Darren explains. “Also, make sure that the water coolant level is correct – this should be changed annually, and will keep the cooling system fresh and clean inside, which helps prevent corrosion and assures that the coolant has the proper boiling point and protection. Always check that the cooling fan is working, especially in summer.” Raphael Agius of RFL Towing says that contrary to popular belief, he is busier towing cars in summer than he is in winter – “many think that winter is a busier time for towing because of bad weather and because cars stop in the rain. While this does happen too, people tend to be more careful in bad weather, whereas in summer, there are more cars on the road because people go out a lot more, and people tend to be a bit more careless with their car care.” He says the most common requests for towing come as a result of over-heated cars, as well as damaged clutches and breaks. He advises to pay attention to your car to avoid further damage when it indicates that
it’s running into a problem. “For example, all drivers should take notice of the lights and dials on the dashboard – if the oil sensor lights up, stop at the side 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.” Treating your car against corrosion is also a must, especially if you’re driving a used, imported car. Joe Magri of Magri Autocare, who’s been rust-proofing cars since 1972, says most of the used cars which are currently being imported here already show some degree of external corrosion when the underneath
is examined on a hoist. “The little external rust underneath is not in itself a big problem, but may be a sign of heavier corrosion in the hidden sections which cannot be seen during such an examination, such as chassis and running boards, pillars and door booth lids.” Joe recommends Dinitrol anti-corrosion treatment – “its unique secret lies in its specially formulated Dinitrol products, whereby two products of different viscosity are used in applying the full Dinitrol treatment. There is the fine penetrating product, injected in all the closed cavities and underneath, which will displace water and moisture, and penetrates dust and rust to reach the metal, stopping any further corrosion. The underneath is also covered with a thicker product to resist the splashing of water and flying stones from the road. For about €360, you can rest assured your car will remain rust-free for years.” One of the best ways to care for your car is to also avoid getting involved in an accident, which means your full attention should be on the road while driving. “Most car accidents could be easily avoided, such as ones caused by drinking and driving, answering a call or texting while driving, overspeeding and driving when tired,” says Darren of Hilltop Garage. “Respect traffic regualtions and traffic lights, and do not drive too close to the car in front of you. Always use indicators and wear your seatbelt – you are not alone on the road and your negligence could cost your life and other people’s lives too.”
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Homes.
Sprucing up your home this summer Sarah Micallef DISCUSsES maintenance and home decor works you can carry out this summer.
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ith some extra time to ourselves in August, it’s the perfect excuse to do a little sprucing up at home, getting down to those maintenance works we’ve been putting off and giving certain areas some much-needed TLC. According to Louise Camilleri of Andrew Vassallo Ltd, home decor and maintenance activities that are best carried out during the summer months include roof maintenance such as applying liquid membrane, treatment for composite and real wood decking, as well as
installing a skylight, to improve the quality of your living space. Louise explains, “installing the right skylight transforms a room by bringing in natural light brightness, warmth and life. This transformation, when used effectively, can also reduce energy costs in winter.” She maintains that a skylight can also provide added ventilation in the hot months: “at the touch of a button or a switch, it allows for natural fresh air to flow during spring and summer.”
Louise highlights other upgrades and improvements that can make a difference to your home both visually and economically, explaining, “you can upgrade to UPVC apertures or aluminium thermal break together with low-e glass. We also recommend insulated roller shutters which can provide ventilation once closed. You can also opt for glass railings for an unobstructed view.” And while you’re at it and your floors are dusty anyway, why not consider installing a
lift for a whole new level of comfort? Emanuel Deguara, Sales and Marketing Manager at Apex Lifts states that while with today's technology there are various types of lifts that can be installed in a residential property; the type
of installation depends on the specific use required as well as site restrictions. “In general, chairlifts, inclined platform lifts, vertical platform lifts, pool lifts and step lifts all operate on a 240v supply. However, passenger lifts catering for six or eight persons or more in apartment buildings require a three-phase installation and normally have a large shaft with a deep pit and high headroom,” he explains. Once installed, lifts require maintenance; with frequency and type depending on the type of lift as well as frequency of use. “A lift in a school used at least 50 times daily requires more visits than a home lift used five times daily,” Emanuel maintains, “however, in general two visits a year are a must, as during maintenance visits emergency equipment is also triggered and tested.” With shutdown on the way and a little more free time on your hands therefore, a door is opened up for such projects within your home, and, depending on the job, if you get the professionals in to do it for you, you need not do more than sit back, relax and supervise!
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Stylish Bathroom Ideas New shower trays
Variety and choice
Experiencing a shower is simply delightful. LIF.ST new shower trays, available both in Heavycryl® and in ceramic, in sizes that reach 160cm and boasting a cuttingedge design, render the showering milieu a proper wellness space. The combination of acrylic and natural materials results in Heavycril®, a product with a surface pleasant to the touch but heavy like stone or ceramic. The shower trays are available from Carini Stores Ltd.
Keramit has been present on the Maltese market since 1964, and 50 years on, is still offering the latest in style and quality. Keramit Bathroom Centre has become a trusted source for home owners, designers and architects, as it provides them with an endless choice of tiles and bathrooms all under one roof. www.keramitbathrooms.com
Carini Stores Ltd, 435, St Joseph High Road, St Venera. T: 2144 9641/2144 0202; E: sales@carinibathrooms.com; www.carinibathrooms.com
Refined tiles
Innovative design
Naturalia draws its inspiration from American walnut floorboards, which have the ability to create a warm and cosy atmosphere in any room of the house. This ceramic tile, with its extremely refined glaze transmits a strong and tactile feel, giving the surface the appearance of polished wood, using ceramic technology that suits all tastes and furnishing requirements.
Innovation and technology join forces for the benefit of sustainable progress. This concept is synonymous with saving water and optimising space – its innovative system filters the wash-basin water so that it can be reused in the toilet. This is a unique, distinct and original design that brings elegance and sustainability to the bathroom. This product’s innovative technology is totally sustainable.
Magri Bathrooms, Cannon Road, Qormi. T: 2148 6883/2748 6883; www.magribathrooms.com
Alex Mercieca Bathroom Centre Ltd, 25th November Avenue, c/w Labour Road, Zejtun. T: 2167 2049/2169 5438; E: info@alexmercieca.com; www.alexmercieca.com
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