Globe Magazine November 2022

Gustavo Bacarisas 150th Anniversary Stamps

A special set of stamps to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of artist Gustavo Bacarisas has been launched

THE INITIATIVE by Gibraltar Cultural Services on behalf of the Ministry for Culture and the Gibraltar Philatelic Bureau is part of the celebrations to pay tribute to the work and legacy of the artist, whose impact is still very relevant to date. The set features some of Gustavo’s artworks, all on show at the Mario Finlayson National Art Gallery and City Hall. Most of the artworks depicted have a specific link to

Gibraltar, and commemorate Gustavo’s talent, life, and success.

The launch of the stamps, which had been planned for the artist’s actual birth date the 23rdSeptember, was postponed due to the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. The stamps depict the former monarch’s profile, so authorisation was required from The Palace for release. The Gibraltar Philatelic

Bureau have confirmed that this set of Gibraltar stamps will be the last to feature Her Late Majesty’s

profile. Minister for Culture, John Cortes and Minister with responsibility for Postal Services, Vijay Daryanani launched the set, which is sure to be a welcome addition to any local collector.

The stamps are available for purchase online on www. gibraltar-stamps.com, from the Philatelic Shop outside the Main Post Office and from the National Art Gallery gift shop at City Hall.

I suppose you could say it’s obvious when requiring some work done on your property you want it done well and, of course, professionally. JAMENA Properties Ltd you’ll find ticks all the boxes, when committed to the task!

‘A SMILE OF recognition’ will appear across your face when you experience the handover moments as the company’s professionals deliver a job on completion, that’s very noticeably well done and finished to an exceptionally high standard.

...Well, I was met by two of the company’s clued-up and very knowledgeable senior employees - Richard Muscat is the Managing Director of the company, which he took over from his former Spanish directors but ‘He, of athletic endeavours,’ was out of town on other business - so it was left to Kayleigh Catania and Anabella Muscat to tell me what JAMENA PROPERTIES Ltd was all about.

So I sat and listened, ready to absorb the variety of work they take on - a construction company with a difference you may well say! They will tackle reinforcement of concrete structures, structural repairs, facades (using Lifeline Protection methods), flooring, insulation and other undertakings, which

even include internal ‘rock fall’ prevention, the well informed ladies told me.

The company’s produced work for the MOD here on the Rock

at the British Forces HQ Tower in the Dockyard, applying flooring in the courtyard and balconies both to an impressive high standard as stated by MOD bosses there! Something called,

‘rubber crumb’ flooring is used. A form of paint is how it’s best described and JAMENA’S expertise has also been applied at the new Lathbury Barracks Sports Grounds’ swimming pool and athletics track, in our schools, assisting in Government Housing projects and even up the Rock, way up high on the Skywalk!

Kayleigh and Annabelle were keen to inform me that SIKA is a Swiss company that’s been involved in providing knowhow and the materials used here. JAMENA has benefitted from the training offered by the Swiss Company (SIKA). About half of JAMENA’S workforce is fully trained to undertake the important ‘need to know’ methods when dealing with the materials necessary for each individual job. In fact, they are the only certified SIKA appliers in Gibraltar; not only that but as a company, JAMENA is trying to reduce CO2 emissions and they use SIKA products, which are non-carcinogenic, free from cancer-causing products.

The company currently employs

Text byRichard Cartwright

about 25 individuals and despite the heavy workload that comes JAMENA’S way – one of only a very few construction companies allowed to continue work during the dreaded ‘Covid’ Pandemic - they now have their eye on

promoting their expertise and expanding their business abroad... yes, to the UK: solar energy is the next thing for them with another innovative idea using a set of materials not requiring solar panels but by other ways and

means of grabbing the sun’s rays! Clearly there’s a hard working team at JAMENA PROPERTIES Ltd, located at 4 COTCHFOE HOUSE IN SHACKLETON ROAD (just off Devil’s Tower Road)...So, consider a job well

done by getting in touch by email: info@jamena-ltd.gi or log onto, www.jamena-ltd.gi or you can give then a ring on… 225 00551 (8:00am to 3:00pm) alternatively on 56001132.

Janice Hair and Beauty comes to you…

by Richard Cartwright

DOESN’T SEEM LIKE it, the way the weather’s going these days, but the winter months are here and cuddling up at home not having to bother going out is best. Not only can you enjoy the warmth of your home watching your favourite TV programmes but whilst doing that, you can have your hair, manicure and pedicure seen to by top professionals whilst you lounge at leisure in your own home...Janice Cruz and her team at Ocean Village are now offering our seniors a top class service by visiting your home without the need for you to leave the comfort of your residence. Whatever your needs are when it comes to your hair, your hands, your feet and more, Janice’s ‘village people’ will attend to whatever your hairdressing and other needs are and make you feel like a million dollars... without moving from your sitting room!

Janice Hair and Beauty have the experience and know how when it comes to hairdressing. They’ve been seeing to their clientele for almost 20 years –even visiting, UK singing celebrities and visitors to the Rock from all over the world, and of course, numerous local customers, many of whom have become loyal friends with the salon’s professionals due to the pleasant atmosphere and enjoyable time experienced at their salon, wishing to return time and time again!

So now a brand new service: Janice Hair and Beauty COMES TO YOU!! Give them a call and they will see to all your needs when it comes to hair, hands and feet and more...Just ask and they will deliver. That’s the message to our `Lady Elders,’ request an appointment and you will receive a first class professional

service from their pleasant, attentive, caring and courteous staff...Call now!

Tel. 200 78800 janicehairandbeauty@gmail.com or pop along to: 32, Ocean Village Promenade, Gibraltar

Text

We Are the People 2022

ON 15TH OCTOBER LAST, Gibraltar experienced a show which will no doubt go down in history.

Directed by Deepak Ramchandani and also produced by Karess Zammit, “We Are the People” was a fashion, music and dance extravaganza dedicated to Deepak’s late nephew Kabir Advani. All proceeds from the show went to the Kabir Ramchandani Foundation, which was set up by Kabir’s friends and family in February to continue his legacy in charity work.

On the day of the show, as you entered the Europa Sports Complex, we were greeted by a photocall with logos representing the Foundation, and people were given the opportunity to have their photos taken with hostesses wearing Panda heads. This was a personal touch as Kabir is now synonymous with anything to do with Panda.

The show began on time, with a still showing

Kabir sat at Es Vedra in Ibiza being displayed during the first segment. This was his favourite place, and was where his ashes were dispersed. The Eko Onkar was played in the background; this Sikh prayer was also played during Kabir’s last rites.

Dazzled by Chenille and the beautiful Indian models, everyone knew that this night was going to be spectacular! The night was mesmerising and full of emotion, as all enjoyed an impressive and meticulously produced show.

From dancers to models and local designers, who displayed their work on the catwalk, the evening showcased a wide range of local talent. The singer Paula Garcia also gave a breath taking rendition of Angie Stone’s song “Wish I Didn’t Miss You Anymore”.

Apart from feeling the essence of Kabir, we were transported through a journey of his life. The finale number was celebrated in whole Ibiza, burning man style, with dancers and models sashaying down the catwalk. For a minute, we felt we were in Paris Fashion Week. Indeed, there was nothing to envy Paris as our locals did us proud during the show!

Makeup was artistically and skilfully directed by Deepak Ramchandani, who has been creating the latest trends in makeup thanks to his knowledge of the industry. An amazing team of hairstylists and makeup artists showed their talent too as everything was executed to perfection. The night was unforgettable, and

Photographs By Neil Wilson (Black & Burst Photography)

the production was well executed thanks to YDS, whose professionalism helped make the show run smoothly.

Accompanied by his nephew Yuvi, Deepak was given a standing ovation as he took the finale bow. Emotional and overwhelmed, he spoke briefly and thanked all who have been part of this journey.

Deepak said: “Karess Zammit has been my backbone throughout. She created my vision and thanks to her all of this has been possible. But without the performers, there would be no show – it is all thanks to them and they are our true heroes”. He also emphasized that he was really grateful to the people of Gibraltar for supporting the ‘Kabir Ramchandani Foundation’.

Deepak would also like to credit and give a mention to the performers and designers that worked alongside him in the production; namely, Charlene Figueras (Night OWL), Gail Busto, Paula Beach, Om Collection, Emma b – African Tribute and Trends.

Performers – MDS, Jfd, Navin and Sheetal, GAMPA and Paula Garcia

Lyanne Pratts Fashion Designer Interview

Tell us a bit about yourself and what’s going on in your life at the moment?

I am a hard-working creative individual with an eye for detail. I enjoy challenging myself and finding new and creative ways around challenges. Currently I am undergoing a PGCE in Gibraltar University after having completed my degree in BA Hons Fashion Design.

I would love to become a teacher as I aim to inspire and encourage the generations to come to express themselves through art (fashion).

What’s your first fashion memory?

My first fashion memory would be having a notepad where I would express my ideas onto paper by drawing my designs onto plain silhouettes. All my drawings were rough sketches done by pencil. This ignited my passion for art and fashion.

Tell us about your degree course and your final collection.

I studied BA hons Fashion Design at Middlesex university including a foundation degree. I found that my course was demanding but rewarding as I have seen my progress as a person and designer throughout the 4 year

course. My final collection was initially inspired by lingerie and its detail which then developed into merging the ‘underwear’ with ‘outerwear’. Incorporating the fine details of lingerie into my collection which aimed to highlight the female body and empowering women.

How would you describe the garments you create?

Modern; trendy; elegant; sexy.

Are there any aspects of the fashion industry you dislike?

I would have to say the competitiveness in the fashion industry is something that can be off putting. On the other hand, this gave me motivation to better myself and improve due to the high standards and competition.

Who would you like to dress and why?

I would love to dress up the

younger generation as I would enjoy teaching them how they can express themselves through clothing.

Are you planning a next collection?

At the moment I am not planning my next collection as I am focusing on completing my PGCE.

What are your plans for the future?

I aim to complete the PGCE and teach textiles. Once I complete the PGCE I would love to make another collection and collaborate with other local designers/artists.

What advice would you give someone thinking about studying fashion?

Go for it! It’s a challenging industry but the good times outweigh the bad times. You will face loads of challenges but if you believe in yourself and push yourself you will get through it.

Where can Globe Magazine readers see more of your work?

They can see more of my work on Facebook and Instagram @ fabricstudioss where I showcase my final collection and ideas.

Image 1: Final collection piece worn by Giovanella Viñales. MUA Megan Davis. Photographer Gabriella Martinez - Image 2: Design development - Image 3: Final collection piece worn by Sarah Garcia. Headpiece by Veiled by Kay. MUA Yuly Gaivizo. Photographer Gabriella Martinez - Image 4: Final collection piece worn by Nadya Riley. Headpiece by Veiled by Kay. MUA Maxime Buhagiar. Photographer Gabriella Martinez -Image 5: MoodboardImage 6: Final collection

Miss Gibraltar 2022

Faith Torres crowned Miss Gibraltar

When presenting a show of any type at the Alameda Open Air Theatre, the first thing you hope for - really, really hope for - is a calm night...and that, it was! Not even a breeze could be felt and the show kicked off bang on time at 9.30 pm on the dot!

HOWEVER, THE BREEZE PICKED up a little during the second half but that didn’t deter the producers from putting on a very good show – a first for, No 1 Models Gibraltar. A great opening sequence I thought, with the Mediterranean Dance School quickly joined by the 12 pageant ladies offering a well rehearsed routine. The girls disappeared whist the dance routine continued and, as if by magic, the contestants re-appeared after a quick costume change (they did that in just

45 seconds with two helpers assisting each contestant).

Continuity through most of the first half was slick: it’s always good and professional when an announcement is made by the presenters and on their last syllable, and in a split second, the next item continues seamlessly – it’s pressure on the individual in charge of the music to hit the ‘key’ at the right moment and whoever’s next, to be ready backstage and

make their entrance on cue – as the night wore on it wasn’t always so. However, I suppose that wasn’t a concern of major importance for the audience there or at home watching the show on GBC.

Presenting the show on the night we had two relatively newcomers to the scene... Former Miss Gibraltar, Kayley Mifsud and Louis Perry, who you may have seen on GBC Television programmes from time to

Text by Richard Cartwright - Photographs by Josie Barceló

time. They cruised through the proceedings confidently, as the night progressed. The girls presented themselves to the judges one by one in a pleasant fashion (no need for the thank you from them at the end of each interview) to enthusiastic applause from family and friends – celebrity judges were all well known in their own line of work. The swimwear round was re-introduced to the pageant this year and needless to say the girls looked amazing.

The usual Miss Gibraltar routines followed through the evening to great applause and shouts of ‘Guapa’ from family members and friends, each time their favourites took their turn on stage. All were well applauded in a packed theatre with not a single empty seat in sight...Extra effort was evident when I spotted, ‘another Richard’ – a sign language interpreter assisting a deaf family member/ friend sitting in the front row watching her

favourite performing on stage and enjoying the show – a warm touch, to the evening’s proceedings!

On the night, a commendable innovation I thought, was having four young local singers performing a medley of well known songs - always important – singing solo and as a quartet in well constructed harmonies seamlessly through the routine...10 out of 10

for that! Ella Vinet, Andria Olivares, Lucia Wood and Danny Moreno, gave us a great performance....

Interviews next, and the contestants generally gave a good account of themselves, having chatted to the judges the night before. The

thing about interviews is, the way they are conducted nowadays at our Miss Gibraltar shows in order not to get the ladies off guard – they tend to come across a little contrived in most cases: some of them rushing through what they have rehearsed at home word for word not to forget anything. By all means

be prepared, but just by jotting down two or three salient points of what you want to put across in your own words and rehearse THAT, in your bedroom, without trying to memorise the whole response of what you’ve written word for word... It’ll come across casually, relaxed and not staged, unnatural or artificial.

After the break, the big announcements were soon to come but not before more entertainment, whilst the judges put their heads together as the night wore on to choose the recipients of a variety of awards and, of course, the three top girls...

The Danza Academy performers were good on the night too. Dance groups and routines are getting better and better and more professional I’ve noticed: I think there’s been a big improvement.

Then the lovely ladies came on stage one final time in their evening wear and Danny Moreno was back...What a singer!! He was great as he cheekily wandered around the 12 lovely contestants giving a great vocal performance (he’s off to university now to take a music or performance degree, I understand)...Danny Moreno, is one to watch! Meanwhile, the judges were hard at it and the special guest for the evening was an Israeli born Gibraltarian singer... ‘Kerria’. She hit the stage with her two dancers performing her routine of self penned numbers. Kerria is a good singer of the present genre of performers ending with a lovely ballad. She was well received by the audience in the park...And so the moment of crowning arrived with the presenters calling up the award winners to receive recognition of their achievements, ending with the announcements of the three favourite pageant winners.

2nd Princess prize went to, Michelle Lopez Desoisa, 1st Princess was awarded to, Jaylynn Cruz, and Miss Gibraltar 2022 is, Faith Torres

As planned, the show came to a finish at exactly 12 midnight with last year’s Reigning Queen, Janice Sampere, placing the crown atop the chosen 2022 Queen’s nicely styled hairdo...!It was a good show. Well done Kelvin Hewitt and the rest of his, No1 Models Gibraltar team!

Miss Friendship: Rebecca Davis

Miss Popular Choice: Faith Torres

Miss Photogenic: Jaylynn Cruz

Miss Head to Head Challenge: Shyanne Mcintosh

Miss Catwalk: Shyanne Mcintosh

Miss Interview: Jaylynn Cruz

Miss Elegance: Faith Torres

Miss Gibraltar 2022 Faith Torres

2nd Princess Michelle Lopez Desoisa

1st Princess Jaylynn Cruz

Karlos Martínez

Text by Joe Adambery

SO YOU THINK YOU HAVE a novel in you and maybe you do - but how do you get it published without selling your soul. Let’s get real, it’s not going to happen. The business has changed much in favour of the ‘giants’, who might offer you a publishing deal. All you have to do is give away seventy percent of your projected novel and be happy with thirty percent return - if it sells! Reality bites hard and if you are planning to make any headway as a writer you had better get used to the idea that publishers’ rejection slips alone are not your only impediment to success. It’s like starting out as an actor - you have to be happy to be a waiter most of the time. My guest is a waiter first and a budding writer second.

I sit across a coffee table to a charming Spanish writer, who has just published his first novel with Amazon. He beams as he offers me the book- it cost him ten Euros to buy so I politely decline the gift. He completed a long distance university course a couple of years ago and his interest in writing grew from the results he obtained. The course was for movie screen writers and his distance tutor was excited for him. His name is Karlos Martínez and he hails from Asturias, Spain.

His novel is titled ‘240 Dias Laborables’ (240 working days) a strange title to an even stranger novelistic theme.

It is based on the true story of an unemployed man looking for a job, who was caught out inadvertently money laundering (albeit on a very small scale) thus falling foul of the laws in Spain. 240 days was the sentence imposed by a judge and he would have to work for the state for free. The sentence seems harsh as the sum involved in the failed intent to defraud the state was

just over two thousand Euros. “In the same year that this man was sentenced, disgraced singing icon Isabel Pantoja was taken to court over huge money laundering charges and given the large sums involved in her dossier, if the same sentencing criteria had been used she would have spent more than a lifetime in jail!”

The reality is much different – I tell Karlos and one can’t help but feel for that humble first time offender, who was only trying to find a job in a country then crippled by high unemployment.

It’s about how much can you afford to spend on your defence and not about justice at all. A clear case of Justice being for the rich and the full force of the law is there to keep the poor in check. We carry on our conversation and I tell him that we don’t review Spanish language books in Globe Magazine but that I am interested in hearing about the difficulties faced by new writers trying to get published in Spain.

He names a large publishing house in Spain and proceeds to tell me how they operate. “They have a large team of skilled readers, who speed-read the hundreds if not thousands of manuscripts sent in for their famous annual writers’ competition. The speed readers report on their analysis of the best storylines, which are then ‘adapted’ to new books without infringing on any copyright. “After all, you can’t copyright an idea for a novel and the publishers are under no obligation to those, who enter the competition. The manuscripts have been sucked dry of their plots and in-house writers are contracted to ‘develop’ new stories.”

The future of publishing in Spain still looks secure and the unsuspecting readers are never going to know just how many

A writers’ dilemma… getting published without giving it all away

good writers have been pushed to the wayside in these huge nationwide trawls for new writing talent. Karlos also points out that the national top writer’s prize from this same publisher is also almost guaranteed to have been pre-selected by paid influencers rather than by competition results. Almost in the same breath he says... “Having said all this, if I were to be offered a contract to write for this publishing house, I would not hesitate to sign on the dotted line and get paid to write.”

Karlos is now into his fourth novel and he says, as does his Columbian wife, that the third

identify with them. That is the essence of a successful writer- the readers can all see something of themselves in the characters of the story and they will want to read about them because of that.”

As we speak (early May) Karlos Martínez remained hopeful and optimistic that he wanted to remain a part of the writing fraternity notwithstanding that the odds for success were highly stacked against new writers. Over the next few months, he is taking a break and going to Colombia with his wife as they have not been able to travel there for over two years because of Covid restrictions.

one is his best. I immediately ask why and he explains. “Along the way I have learnt how to develop my characters in a better way. My characters now have a much fuller profile and a life of their own. In fact, they speak to me about the way my story will unfold. I recognize that at the beginning I did not know how to develop my characters in a way that readers could easily

During the holiday, he will put the finishing touches to his third novel and start again the process of trying to get a publishing deal. Whether he succeeds remains to be seen but I would like to think that we might see him back in this little corner of the Med before the year is out. His novel ‘240 Dias Laborables’ is available from Amazon.

Magik at The Sunborn

It was a night of the Rock, Rock, Rock… and Rock some more!

Text by Richard Cartwright

Photographs by Mark Galliano Photography

FIRST THINGS FIRST, and here’s my pet gripe. The show - as printed on the entry tickets – kicked off bang on 9pm. Many of our entertainment shows on the Rock just don’t get it and start 10, 20 and some times more minutes late...I don’t understand why promptness is not upheld. It shows lack of professionalism at the very start of a performance, any performance! Anyway, I digress...

Ace of Shades kicked off the evening with a very good set of songs getting the mix of covers and original compositions just right, I thought. I’ve witnessed some of the ‘Slade Corporation’s’ on stage work in the past, as they’ve appeared in different incarnations over time, and on Saturday night I was blown away! What an improvement. It was obvious they’ve rehearsed, rehearsed and rehearsed coming across as, well...well

rehearsed!’ Michael, Keeran, Della (in her Rock personification), Zoe – she gave it all, just great - and Ernest as the band leader. A wonderful set of tunes, even tackling a Police hit with their sometimes tricky and difficultto-follow off beat rhythms...And lead guitarist Ernest...Wow, what a nifty, effortless set of fingers he has with his guitar riffs way up front, sometimes harmonising with second guitarist Della...Great opening!

Next were the Uninvited, who were invited onto the stage...and they did to great applause from the almost 200 mainly lovers of Rock in the crowd. Megan, Noni, Kyle, Douglas and Nathan entertained us for the next 40 minutes. I was told they also appear as Canadian hit maker, Alanis Morissette tribute band, but on the night they gave us more: Megan gave us covers of hits by other artists too. A very good band with most of them on stage seasoned musicians, who have worked with many other outfits and singer Megan has come a long way, looking good and performing well in the outfit

she wore on the night. I first heard her sing at a Mrs Gibraltar Pageant in the Alameda Open Air Theatre just a few years ago. Towards the end, the Uninvited gave us the Morissette hit, ‘Uninvited’ which gave the group its name to much appreciation from the crowd. They put on a good show!

Professionalism showed up again during the evening’s proceedings where both supporting bands stuck to the agreed 40 minute slot they were given on the night...and so we moved on, and after a well earned drink during a

20/25 minute break we were ready to be entertained once more with a touch of magic...sorry, MAGIK!

They were the stars of the night coming on stage after the two support bands and proved to be tops! A combination of Spanish and Gibraltarian musicians made up the Rock quartet...Carlos ‘Tibu’ Sanchez on bass, Manolo Arias on lead - and every other function - on guitar, Peter Chichon ex Breed 77, on drums (and what a drummer) and Giles Ramirez on vocals...All seasoned

musicians, who’ve been around for a long, long time. ‘Tibu’ has, since doing the rounds in different groups in Spain, lent his talents to managing a number of acts in Spain including, Alejandro Sanz, El Canto Del Loco and others. Manolo has been all over Europe more notably involved in ‘Niagra’, ‘Ñu’ ... and ‘Mago De Oz’, amongst others...And so the tunes came roaring towards us in the Aurora banqueting/conference/concert room on the Sunborn... great versions of well known classics like, Show me the way, Desperado (during an acoustic set), Don’t Stop, Up

Around the Bend and many more during their well over 60 minutes set. Giles was in fine form and his version of Albert Hammond’s, It Never Rains in Southern California was a highlight. I always say if you’re going to do covers (other than as a tribute band) you need to make them your own and not a copy of what is already there...great example of that is Joe Cocker’s version of the Beatles’, With a Little Help From my Friends, totally different to Ringo’s rendition. I felt Manolo’s clever guitar riffs could have been a little louder and more upfront to really show his playing prowess. Other than that, it was all good...The crowd loved it all not least because it was a well organised evening/night of Rock. Top marks to all three acts and the organisers...We’re getting better at it and ‘professionalism’...is on the UP!!

It is Crucial to see the Cardiologist if you experience any symptom

DR JUANJO GÓMEZ

Doblas is the cardiologist of Vithas Xanit Gibraltar and the Head of the Cardiology service of Vithas Xanit International Hospital. He insists that “it is necessary to see the cardiologist if there is a family health history of heart disease, such as myocardial infarction, cardiac arrhythmia, congenital heart disease, sudden death, etc.”

In these cases, cardiologists play a role in the prevention of heart disease for patients, who have a genetic background of the same or similar heart pathologies. To this end, at Vithas Xanit Gibraltar, we offer Cardiology consultations and check-ups performed by highly experienced clinical cardiologists. All these services start with a study of the medical history of the patient, followed by a personal interview with

the cardiologist and the performance of all relevant tests for each case.

During a consultation, the doctor will make the diagnosis and treatment of all diseases

that affect the heart, helped by the following tests that are available at Vithas Xanit Gibraltar to check the heart state of each patient:

- Electrocardiogram. An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical signal from the heart to check for changes in the heart rate.

- Echocardiogram. This basic test is an ultrasound scan that checks the structure of your heart to find any differences in size and shape. “This allows us to evaluate the heart function, and to determine any heart valve or myocardial problems” , explains the cardiologist.

- 24-hour Holter monitor, a continuous test to record your heart's rate and rhythm for 24 hours, so as to detect arrhythmias.

There are certain symptoms that can alert us to the need to see a cardiologist at any age

Dad's Kitchen

Couscous

Text and Photography by Mark Montovio

Mark Montovio shares some of his much loved local and world recipes opening up possibilities for making each dish to suit a variety of families, different tastes and particular dietary needs. Combining his love of different cultures and world cuisine he is also committed to preparing meals which are nutritious, tasty and good to look at, with minimum waste and using seasonal produce.

COUSCOUS IS A North Afri can staple consisting of steamed, crushed durum wheat semolina usually served with stewed meat, vegetables, or a mixture of both. In Morocco, where this chicken couscous is from, it is served at weddings, and special occasions, although most families gather around a large communal cous cous dish every Friday.

Prepared best in a couscoussier, a traditional Moroccan food stea mer made of two interlocking pots, it can still be done a much simpler way. The advantage of the couscoussier is that the first bottom pot holds the stew and broth used to produce the steam, and the second pot holds the couscous grains, so you can ima gine the flavour!

In Morocco, serving couscous the right way is important. It is a festive dish and in essence the equivalent of the Sunday British roast or the Sunday family paella in Spain. Often served on a big beautifully glazed dish, the cous cous is shaped into a mound and a well dug in the centre, where the meat and then the vegetables are placed all around. Then, you can either pour some of the incredi bly rich broth over the couscous, meat, and vegetables, or serve that

separately. I quite like my cous cous dry. The chickpeas are usua lly distributed around with a lar ge amount of Tfaya over the top.

For this recipe, I used two pous sins, but a whole chicken or se parate parts can be used. You

will need olive oil, an onion, two garlic cloves, salt and black pepper, 1 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp cumin, tomatoes, carrots, pumpkin, tur nip, cabbage, canned chickpeas, dry couscous and unsalted but ter. For the tfaya, 2 large yellow

onions, olive oil, salt, 1/2 tsp tur meric powder, 1/2 tsp ground gin ger, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 cup rais ins, I quite like golden ones, and 1 tbsp sugar.

If you are using a couscoussier you add some olive oil, and fry the chopped onion, garlic, and seasonings. Stir and sauté until the onions soften and then brown the chicken, flipping it as you go. You then add 1 cup water, cover, and cook for about 30 min if it’s a whole chicken. At that point you would add the cabbage and ca rrots 1/2 cup of water, and cover. You then grease the top part of the couscoussier, the actual stea mer, and in a bowl, combine dry couscous grains with 1 tsp salt, 2 tbsp olive oil, and mix with your hands until it's all combined. To that, you add 1 cup of room tem perature water and let the cous cous absorb it for 10-15 minutes without mixing it. Once 15 mi nutes are over you would add the softer vegetables to the broth, and then cover with the steamer part to finish cooking off the cous cous. This usually takes another 15 minutes. Of course, you can prepare it the easy way following package instructions.

Once it’s done you put the cous cous back into the large bowl,

add unsalted butter and salt to taste, and fluff with the hands. In Morocco, they use a fermented butter called smen, which is not everybody’s cup of tea given it has a pungent smell. If couscous is too hot, you may use a wooden spoon to fluff it, but again Mo roccans have steal fingers. Your

couscous should be tender and fluffy by now!

For the tfaya, you sauté onions in olive oil with salt, turmeric powder, and ground ginger on medium-low for 20-25 minu tes, stirring occasionally. You then add raisins, ground cin

namon, and granulated sugar and cook until it takes on a soft honey-like texture, usually 30 minutes. If the sauce gets too thick, though, some broth will help and I like to add a little honey.

Even though many people today

use a spoon or fork to eat cous cous, it is traditionally eaten with their hands. The right hand can only be used for eating in Moroc co and when diners gather cous cous between their fingertips, they roll it, press it into a ball, and eat it. I have to stick to using cut lery!

The Best Recipes of our Cuisine

Creamy Chicken Stew

Serves: 4 - 6

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

INGREDIENTS

- 3 leeks, halved and finely sliced tbsp olive oil, plus extra if needed

- 1 tbsp butter

- 8 small chicken thighs

- 500ml chicken stock

- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

- 75g crème fraîche

- 200g frozen peas

- 3 tbsp dried or fresh bread crumbs

- Small bunch of parsley, finely chopped

HOW TO MAKE IT

1. Tip the leeks and oil into a flameproof casserole dish on a low heat, add the butter and cook everything very gently for

10 minutes or until the leeks are soft.son to taste with salt and pepper.

2. Put the chicken, skin-side down, in a large non-stick frying pan on a medium heat, cook until the skin browns, then turn and brown the other side. You shouldn’t need any oil but if the skin starts to stick, add a little. Add the chicken to the leeks, leaving behind any fat in the pan.

3. Add the stock to the dish and bring to a simmer, season well, cover and cook for 30 minutes on low. Stir in the mustard, crè me fraîche and peas and bring to a simmer. You should have quite a bit of sauce.

4. When you’re ready to serve, put the grill on. Mix the bread crumbs and parsley, sprinkle them over the chicken and grill until browned.

What’s Happening Down Town?

1 Tito Benady is recognised with The Lifetime Achievement Award at The Cultural Awards 2022 2 The Miss Gibraltar 2022 contestants showcased OWL by the talented Charlene Figueras, at the Miss Cover Girl show! 3 Blast From The Past - The Band ‘Ash’ In The Mid 80's 4 Miss Gibraltar 2022, Faith Torres, at The Opening of 'The Walnut Campaign" 5 The Peter J Isola Foundation sponsored ‘Clock to Rock’ cycling challenge in support of Calpe House and the Cancer Relief Centre 6 The Winners of This Year’s Cultural Awards were presented with Their Awards at an event at The John Mackintosh Hall. 7 The Chief Minister Fabian Picardo hosted a dinner to celebrate the festival of Diwali at No 6 Convent Place.

The Royal Enfield Story

Royal Enfield is an Indian multinational motorcycle manufacturing company headquartered in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. The Royal Enfield brand, including its original English heritage, is the oldest global motorcycle brand in continuous production

ROYAL ENFIELD is an Indian multinational motorcycle manufacturing company headquartered in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. The Royal Enfield brand, including its original English heritage, is the oldest global motorcycle brand in continuous production

Royal Enfield's roots date back to the 19th century, and its’ Bullet, whose engine the new Continental GT is based upon, was first produced in 1933. That makes the Bullet the oldest motorcycle in the world in continuous production. Royal Enfield appeals to the heritage motorcycle crowd and you are sure to get noticed when you pull up on a new Royal Enfield.

The Enfield Cycle Company

made motorcycles, bicycles, lawnmowers and stationary engines under the name Royal Enfield out of its works based at Redditch, Worcestershire. The legacy of weapons manufacture is reflected in the logo comprising the cannon, and the motto “Made like a gun”. Use of the brand name Royal Enfield was licensed by the Crown in 1890.

In the mid-1960s, as the British manufacturers tried desperately to survive the tsunami wave of Japanese motorcycles entering the market, a British bike called the Royal Enfield Interceptor was making waves of its own. Powered by a 736cc parallel twin, it was reportedly capable of running the quarter-mile in less than 13 seconds, and so, of course, it appealed to power-hungry

Americans. Unfortunately, its heyday was short-lived, as Royal Enfield declared bankruptcy in 1967 and closed its doors for good in 1970. The Interceptor disappeared into history (for a while that is), but thanks to the remnants of colonialism, a fortuitous joint venture and a motorcycle called the Bullet, the Royal Enfield name lived on.

During World War II, the company supplied the British paratroopers with a motorcycle built to be dropped out of airplanes, endearingly called the ‘Flying Flea’. It also supplied one of its models to the British Army and RAF; this model, first built in 1931, was called the ‘Bullet’. In 1948, the Bullet became the first British motorcycle to feature

a frame with a rear swingarm, bestowing it with excellent offroad handling (it won multiple International Six Days Trial gold medals), and likely making it the model that would save the Royal Enfield brand from extinction.

After winning its independence from Britain in 1947, India had remained on good terms with its former ruler and began importing British-built Royal Enfield motorcycles in 1949. When the new Indian government decided it needed a fleet of motorcycles with which to patrol its borders, the 350cc single-cylinder ‘Bullet’ was chosen and soon 800 of them were busily scooting along India’s often rough (or non-existent) roads.

With the ‘Bullet’s’ popularity, it

Royal Enfield Hunter 350

Royal Enfield Scram 411

was decided that assembling the bikes in India made economic sense, and so it was that in 1955 Royal Enfield and Madras Motors formed Enfield India, with Madras (per Indian law) owning the majority of shares. The new company built ‘Bullets’ under a licensing agreement, first simply assembling them as kits and then, starting in 1957, actually manufacturing components with tooling equipment purchased from Royal Enfield. By 1962, India’s ‘Bullets’ were completely manufactured domestically, and when the British firm closed its

doors, Enfield India simply kept building. Over the years, the ‘Bullet’ and the ‘Royal Enfield’ brand became synonymous with India. For their part, the Indian people nurtured and grew their once-British, now home-grown motorcycle brand; after all, they had once been “British” as well. Hollywood would have a hard time coming up with a more compelling story. Yet it gets better.

In the 1970s, the Japanese tsunami that crashed into Europe and America in the ’60s was heading straight for India, and the results

were all too familiar. Local Indian manufacturers either succumbed to the wave or hitched a ride with one of the Japanese companies, often getting swallowed up. Enfield India was struggling to stay afloat. In 1994, a lifesaver was tossed out: the massive Eicher Motor Group, which operates mostly in the automotive sector, acquired the company. The founder, Vikram Lal, was a motorcyclist himself and had owned a ‘Bullet’. His passion for riding was passed down to his son Siddartha, who would eventually be tasked with salvaging and rebuilding the Royal Enfield brand.

Significant investment in both time and money would be required; this wouldn’t be a “flip it” scenario. Siddartha Lal laid out his vision for the future of Royal Enfield: to return the brand to its former global glory, making it relevant to riders worldwide while maintaining its “larger than life charm.” Royal Enfield, as it was now officially known once again, began producing its first new bike in decades, the 500cc air-cooled single-cylinder ‘Classic’, which joined a new ‘Bullet’ using the same engine. Then came the café racer ‘Continental GT’ with

Royal Enfield Classic 350

Royal Enfield Himalayan 650

Royal Enfield Meteor 350

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

a slightly bored-out version of the engine, bumping its displacement to 535cc.

Under Siddartha’s leadership, Royal Enfield prospered. Determined not to repeat missteps of the past, Royal Enfield realized that keeping up with demand for its new models was paramount, so it recently invested £100 million (approx. US$131 million) in a new plant capable of producing 25,000 bikes per month. This new plant join ED

two others also capable of a 25,000 per month output.

Completing the made-forHollywood story, a brand new Technical Centre was built within the confines of the Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground, near Leicester in central England. After almost 50 years, Royal Enfield was once again operating in the U.K. This state-of-the-art facility opened in May 2017 and employs about 130 engineers and product development staff, including

British, Europeans and Indians.

It houses engine and chassis design, modelling and testing

facilities including both engine and chassis dynamometers, and accessories development with full 3D scanning and printing capabilities. Additionally, its location at Bruntingthorpe allows access to a road course test track, as well as, the 3-kilometre runway for high-speed testing. Chassis design is undertaken with the help of Harris Performance, a British firm that’s done work for numerous World Superbike and MotoGP teams and that was acquired by Eicher in 2015.

GSD Remembers Terry Cartwright’s ‘lasting legacy’ in Memorial Event

The GSD held a memorial tribute for the late Terry Cartwright, remembering her influence, passion and legacy in local politics

A FOUNDING MEMBER of the Gibraltar Social Democrats, she stood for election with the AACR in 1988, when the Party, led by Adolfo Canepa would, after 40 years of dominance, lose the election to a GSLP led by Sir Joe Bossano. Following the collapse of the AACR, Terry, along with Peter Montegriffo, moved away from the AACR in the early 90s and were instrumental in the creation of the GSD, which Sir Peter Caruana became leader of. In 1996, however, under his leadership, the party would win the first of four successive terms in office.

On Thursday 20th October, immediate family, Party officers, former Ministers

and Executive members were present to commemorate her years of service to the party. A plaque was also unveiled in the main boardroom at the Party’s

offices in her memory.

“Terry was a founder of the Party and massively influential in it over three decades,” GSD Leader, Keith

Azopardi said. “She was in many respects its life and soul. She felt passionately about Gibraltar, the Party and always strived to effect positive change. She made a huge contribution to Gibraltar politics and it was my privilege to call her my friend. She will always be remembered and leaves a lasting legacy in our social democratic political movement.”

The GSD said the tribute recognised and commemorated her influence on Gibraltar’s political arena and her relentless commitment to the advancement of women in politics. “Terry was an instrumental figure in the creation of the party and remained passionate and vocal about politics until very recently,” the GSD said.

Terry voted in the GSD Executive Elections in March shortly before she died, with the party commenting on her tenacity, determination and strength. The party added that Terry was a role model to local women and a standard bearer for women’s greater involvement in politics.

“The under representation of women in politics in Gibraltar is a serious democratic deficit which

the GSD is acutely aware of,” the GSD said. “We must do more as a society to encourage and achieve a greater representation of women in politics and in decision-making opportunities.”

“As one of the most influential women in the local political arena for more than 40 years, Terry was always very aware of this reality, and inspired many women, who later decided to join Gibraltar’s

political landscape, both within the GSD and more widely. Terry inspired and empowered many people throughout her political career. She provided helpful guidance and support to senior figures in the Party, Ministers and the Chief Minister during the GSD’s time in office between1996 to 2011.”

Terry remained passionate and vocal about politics until ill-health forced her to take a

back seat a few years ago. She is survived by her husband Richard, her children Justine, Marvin, Jonathan and Clare, and her much loved grandchildren.

A plaque was unveiled at the GSD Headquarters in lasting recognition and appreciation of Terry and her dedication and contribution to both the party and Gibraltar’s political landscape.

Launch of ‘Soundtrack of My Teens’ Album by the Valerga Brothers

HIS WORSHIP THE MAYOR, Mr Christian Santos GMD, hosted the launch of the ‘Soundtrack of my Teens’ album at the Mayor’s Parlour on Tuesday 1st November.

The album has been produced by well-known Gibraltarian musicians Henry and Denis;

the Valerga Brothers, who have compiled an album of thirty-three songs from their teenage years – the songs that inspired them to pursue their love of music that has lasted a lifetime.

The brothers describe it as a collection of the music that inspired, schooled and enriched them across their 57 years as musicians.

The launch was attended by several of the artists that collaborated on this project, as well as, by Mr Kamlesh Khubchand whose generous sponsorship has allowed the Valerga Brothers to commit to donating one hundred per cent of the proceeds of sales of the album to Calpe House GA.

The Valerga Brothers have launched a new CD media pack which will raise money for the Calpe House Charity

Henry Valerga presented a cheque of funds already collected through pre-sales to The Hon Sir J Bossano KCMG GMH MP as Patron of Calpe House GA. The Hon Prof J Cortes, Minister for Culture and Mr Albert Poggio, Chairman of Calpe House GA, were also present at the launch to support Henry and Denis with their project.

His Worship spoke of his pleasure in hosting this event in the presence of so many of our local musical legends. He felt

the album was not only a joyous collection of music, but also that Calpe House GA is a deserving recipient of any funds raised. Already before the official launch, ‘Soundtrack of our teens’ had raised over £1,000.

The CD and USB pack is now on sale priced at £20.00, available from Khubchands, 55-57 Main Street, Tel: 200 78382. For more information, please contact mayor@ gibraltar.gov.gi or telephone 200 47592.

Gibraltar Day in London 2022

THE CHIEF MINISTER has today hosted a Financial Services Lunch alongside the Minster for Financial Services, the Hon Albert Isola, at the Guild Hall to mark the start of the annual Gibraltar Day events in London. Those attending the Finance Centre lunch now pay for their participation and the event is no longer subsidised by Government.

This evening, the Chief Minister

will host a reception at The Shard which will see UK Members of Parliament, foreign ambassadors to the UK and other industry leaders networking and reflecting on the ever closer political and economical links between the United Kingdom and Gibraltar. The Chief Minister will also make use of his time in London to hold a number of political meetings.

The Chief Minister, the Hon Fabian Picardo KC MP, said:

‘This is the first Gibraltar Day in London since the pandemic began and I am absolutely delighted to have hosted the Financial Services lunch earlier today which brought together all those industry leaders, who are so fundamentally important to Gibraltar’s economy. It was also particularly poignant to mark Gibraltar Day in London this year for the first time since the passing of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. I

would like to thank Sir Phillip Barton for attending the lunch and addressing those present and for reinforcing the United Kingdom’s commitment to Gibraltar and to securing a safe and beneficial deal in the UK/ EU negotiations on Gibraltar’s future relationship with the EU. Sir Phillip is a great friend of Gibraltar and a former Deputy Governor and so it was a real pleasure to have him with us for today’s lunch’.