FIRST March 2014

MARCH 2014 www.independent.com.mt

ING L DIN CIA ST PE FIROUT S

at home with

MIREILLE BONELLO stylish sophisticate

7 PAGES OF LACE, SEQUINS AND SOLIDS

exclusive KEIRA KNIGHTLEY

LORRAINE SPITERI

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

living with cancer

WARRIOR WOMEN

contents

7 Editor’s desk 8 Fashion Kiabi’s affordable fashion brand

10 Jewellery Italy’s Ippocampo now in Malta

12 Competition Win wine, perfume and decorations for your home

14 Exclusive Actress Keira Knightley, the face of Coco Mademoiselle

16 Inteview MCWO Chairperson Lorraine Spiteri interviewed

18 Fashion Stylish sophisticate: seven pages of lace, sequins and solids

28 Health Warrior women: living with metastatic breast cancer

33 Motoring The Mercedes-Benz GLA driven

36 Cover Story At home with Mireille Bonello

53 Food Anton Dougall prepares mouthwatering cheese dishes

59 Fitness Stellina’s Fitness Challenge 60 Events Diary Snaps from recent events

62 Desirables Top products for your pleasure and comfort

64 Lifestyle Eurovision hopeful Richard Edwards

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FIRST DINING OUT SPECIAL

ON THE COVER Mireille Bonello COVER PHOTO Bernard Polidano MAKE-UP Natasha Polidano See page 38 ON THIS PAGE Sandrina Spiteri Gonzi wears a Lela long dress exclusively from MILÙ BY MIMI and Nour earrings exclusively from PORTO PHOTO Bernard Polidano MAKE-UP Natasha Polidano See page 18 4

FIRST MARCH 2014

editor’s desk

W

elcome to another fabulous edition of FIRST. We’re in the month of March, one of my favourites: the month when the clocks go forward in anticipation of the days getting longer, the weather starts to settle down, and the countryside continues to bloom. It is a month where picnics among the yellow daisies under blue skies dotted with little fluffy clouds are the default thing to do on the weekend and the feeling of anticipation that summer is just round the corner starts to gently creep into the collective mood.

I don’t know about you, but the memories of childhood summers with their sense of no responsibilities, long days of beachside adventures with friends, and whiling away pleasant, starlit evenings with the family, have never completely faded away from my consciousness. This means that even though I am now fast approaching middle age and have plenty of responsibilities and stress – and don’t necessarily take my holidays in the summer – somewhere deep in my soul is a childish smile that manifests itself when the brightness of March sets in – just as it did when I was a schoolboy and I realized that the summer holidays were just over the horizon. As far as I’m concerned, March is when, in motor racing speak, we’re just about to enter the home straight leading to the summer chequered flag, with all its wonderful memory-based connotations.

But I’m getting ahead of myself here. After all, we’re yet to start spring let alone summer. Spring is, of course, the busiest period for occasions – weddings, First Holy Communions and the like, and March is often the month when that super elegant, once-in-a-lifetime dress is purchased to give the wearer a month or two to perfect her absolute best look for when the vital date arrives. For this reason, FIRST is giving you a fantastic choice of magnificent occasional wear modelled by the stunning Sandrina Spiteri Gonzi. Indeed, this issue is a particularly exciting one offering Italian bag and jewellery ideas as well as shoe options.

Among the many interesting people we speak to this month are Lorraine Spiteri, the Chairperson of the Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations, which is apt considering yesterday was Women’s Day, while in an article rightly titled Warrior Ladies, two women describe their lives with Metastatic Breast Cancer, an affliction that simply doesn’t go away.

We’re also introduced to Richard Edwards, the frontman of Firelight, the band that will represent Malta at the Eurovision Song Contest, and interview actress Charlotte Grech. And in our monthly homes feature, we have a chat with cover star Mireille Bonello and her husband Pierre Cordina inside their pretty Zebbug home.

All this and much more. Enjoy the read and please let us know your thoughts on our Facebook page.

FIRST is published every month as a complimentary magazine with The Malta Independent on Sunday and is not to be sold separately. FIRST is published by Standard Publications Ltd, Standard House, Birkirara Hill, St Julian’s STJ1149, Malta. TEL (356) 2134 5888 FAX (356) 2134 6062, 2134 3460 WEB www.independent.com.mt EDITOR COLIN FITZ cfitz@independent.com.mt ADVERTISING CLAIRE BONDIN GAFÀ cgafa@independent.com.mt DESIGN CONRAD BONDIN cbondin@independent.com.mt PRODUCTION MANAGER ANDRE CAMILLERI acamilleri@independent.com.mt SALES CO-ORDINATOR AND ARTWORK COLLECTION NATHALIE BALDACCHINO nbaldacchino@independent.com.mt PRINTING PROGRESS PRESS FIRST MARCH 2014

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FASHION

affordable collections for the whole family

KIABI, the affordable fashion brand for all the family has just arrived in Malta. iabi, a French design and retail company, in partnership with Hudson, officially opened its doors in Malta at Qormi on 6 March. This clothing store is present with 451 outlets in nine countries including France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Russia, Belgium, the Netherlands, Morocco and now Malta.

Seen as a leader in terms of brand awareness, price and image in France’s retail sector, Kiabi has built its success on affordable collections for the whole family.

The brand new concept store located in Qormi, next to Lidl, boasts an open-plan layout with a surface area covering more than 1000 sq. metres built over two levels. Kiabi in Malta includes collections for men, women and children, including maternity, plus sizes, babies and toddlers, lingerie and accessories with new stock renewed weekly.

“The Kiabi concept store is one of a kind in Malta due to its focus on value and vast selection of clothing, accessories and sizes,” said Ritianne Grech, Brand Manager of Kiabi Malta.

“At Kiabi the customer is guaranteed big value at small prices, with a vast range of apparel for the whole family to enjoy from newborn to adults, for all shapes and sizes,” she added.

Kiabi has been in operation for 35 years and now attracts 20 million customers to

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its stores worldwide. It markets 200 million articles per year. As a result, the brand has established itself as the leading clothing and value specialist in France, achieving sales of 1.9 billion dollars in 2012. In other countries, where awareness of the brand is being strengthened, Kiabi is speeding up the deployment of points of sale.

Kiabi was founded in Lille, France in 1978 on the basis of a simple concept: to produce fashion to suit all tastes and budgets. With this concept, Kiabi revolutionised the world of textile retailing at the end of the 1970s. The company has built its success on expertise in fashion and retailing, as well as a firm commitment to sell fashionable products with excellent value for money for the whole family.

Hudson is a leading, award-winning retailer, distributor and representative of global brands in Africa, Italy and Malta.

Nike, New Look, Timberland, Converse, Tommy Hilfiger, Esprit and Kiabi are some of the key brands currently managed by the group. The group’s head office is located in Mriehel, Malta with supporting offices in Italy, Libya and Algeria.

To celebrate its opening in Malta, Kiabi is running a competition on Facebook offering visitors the chance to win a €100 voucher. For more information visit www.facebook.com/kiabi.malta. The store opening hours are Mon to Thu from 9am to 7pm and 9am to 8pm on Friday and Saturday

PROMOTION

Photo: Mauro Miceli

exclusively unique Handmade and designed to meet a discerning public, the Italian IPPOCAMPO jewellery brand combines elegance and sobriety to make each creation simple and sophisticated, as Ippocampo Malta owner ENRICA CARUANA explains. ppocampo is a brand of made in Italy jewellery set up in 2002, that has been a market leader in the field of fashion jewellery for over 10 years, both in its native Italy and also in Spain, Portugal, Slovenia, Belgium and Luxembourg. The brand, which is characterized by the uniqueness and exclusivity of its creations, is now available in Malta.

“Ippocampo stands for passion, creativity and giving attention to the client, ensuring that every detail is taken care of with the utmost attention, so as to keep alive the long-standing tradition of Italian jewellerymaking,” Enrica Caruana, owner of Ippocampo Malta tells FIRST. When Enrica decided she wanted to be her own boss and start up her own business last year, she decided to make contact with the Italian company that had been looking 10

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for a partner in Malta.

“They sent me some samples and I immediately fell in love with them. Following some market research and excellent initial feedback, I went to their head office in Turin to conclude the deal and we launched the brand in Malta in November,” she says.

Enrica cites the quality of the material Ippocampo uses, including rose gold, sterling silver, baroque shell pearls, Svarosvski crystals and waxed cotton cords, as well as the versatility of their

pieces, as reasons why the brand has made such an impact.

“I honestly don't know any other brand of jewellery that can be so versatile. Clients love the way that one piece can actually mean having two, using the same piece as a necklace or bracelet, also, when dressing up in a dress or dressing down in jeans they still work perfectly,” she adds enthusiastically. When asked which she thinks is the most popular Ippocampo line, Enrica immediately points out the Botticelli collection with its beautiful crystals and lurex cords.

Ippocampo Malta’s online shop gives clients the opportunity to purchase their jewellery online and have their items delivered to their home or office free of charge. “Payment can be made upon delivery or through secure, direct bank transfer, so it’s all very safe,” Enrica assures.

Each item comes beautifully packed in an Ippocampo pouch and bag, perfect as a gift. There is also a twoyear warranty on each item purchased. Ippocampo also offers private as well as group home viewings where clients are able to view and try on the collections in the comfort of their own home.

Why not set up a group viewing, invite some close friends over, open a bottle of wine and enjoy an afternoon or evening surrounded by the fabulous Ippocampo collection?

See the Ippocampo collection at www.ippocampomalta.com or www.facebook.com/IppocampoMalta. Contact them via e-mail: info@ippocampomalta.com or call: 7937 0961

COMPETITIONS

WATCH OUT for our May issue for the chance to WIN a fabulous Jovani dress worth €400 from cover star Mireille Bonello’s fashion boutique MILÙ BY MIMI!

a wine to be treasured There is an eventful 700-year-old wine story behind Marchesi di Frescobaldi.

CHARLES GRECH LTD COMPETITION Win a bottle of Nipozzano Riserva 2010, Frescobaldi (awarded 90 points by Robert Parker) packed in an individual presentation package! Simply answer the question: On which famous tables were Frescobaldi wines served in the 1500s? Send your answer

by Fri 28 March 2014 to CHARLES GRECH LTD COMPETITION, Standard Publications Ltd, Standard House, B’Kara Hill, St Julian’s STJ 1149. All correct answers will go into a hat and be drawn by lots. Winners will be notified by post. You may include your answer on a separate paper in the same envelope as the FIRST competition, also on this page.

competition read and win

A Nina Ricci La Tentation de Nina limited edition eau de toilette courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd (Tel: 2133 1553) A FIRST goody bag containing make-up products and various other gifts A handmade glass scented candleholder courtesy of Mdina Glass (www.mdinaglass.com.mt)

All correct answers received will go into a hat and winners will be drawn by lots FEBRUARY ISSUE WINNERS A Valentino Uomo perfume courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd: George Fabri of Paola A handmade glass scented candleholder courtesy of Mdina Glass: Connie Attard of Marsascala A mirror & tassel pouch courtesy of Accessorize: Caroline Rodo of Marsaxlokk A copy of Clare Azzopardi’s latest book Kulhadd halla isem warajh courtesy of Merlin Publishers: Victoria Vella of Mosta & Maria Mifsud of Naxxar

the answer to last month’s main question What is the name of Helen and Philip Farrugia Randon’s daughter? Philipa

QUESTION What car did we test in this month’s edition of FIRST? Answer Name Address Postcode

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Tel

E-mail

Send your entries to: FIRST competition, Standard Publications Ltd, Standard House, B’Kara Hill, St Julian’s STJ 1149

CLOSING DATE FRIDAY 28 MARCH 2014

he history of the Frescobaldi family begins around the year 1000, during the same time period as the birth of the banking industry in medieval Florence.

The Frescobaldis quickly became the absolute protagonists of political and economic life earning them the right to the title ‘treasurers to the English Crown’.

The family’s start in wine production is documented at the beginning of the year 1300 at the historic estate of Tenuta di Castiglioni in Val di Pesa, southwest of Florence.

From the beginning, the family demanded that their wines be of quality and that they reflect the uniqueness of their terroirs, and by the beginning of the 1400s great Renaissance artists such as Donatello and Michelozzo Michelozzi had become faithful clients. A century later the Frescobaldi wines were served at the tables of the Papal Court and the English Court of Henry VIII. The core winegrowing philosophy of the Marchesi de' Frescobaldi is an estate-based philosophy where each estate operates independently with the goal of making wine that best expresses the site from which it originates. This philosophy revolves around the integrated relationship among environment, vines, climate, and man's careful intervention. With nine estates in Tuscany, the Frescobaldi family continually works to upgrade its extensive vineyard holdings, and they craft their wines with the finest combination of traditional and innovative methods. The results are wines that are unique, different from one another and site specific, reflecting the rich diversity of Tuscany.

PROMOTION

timeless beauty CHANEL and KEIRA KNIGHTLEY have been involved in a family affair that goes back to the actress’ early childhood thanks to an olfactory memory that has never left her. Today, the face of Coco Mademoiselle has starred in her third short film to promote the timeless perfume. y grandmother wore Chanel N°5,” Keira Knightley reminisces. And, as if an invisible thread linked them over the decades, Keira decided to wear Coco Mademoiselle well before becoming its muse.

“A friend gave it to me a couple years before I received this wonderful offer. Until then, I had never worn women’s fragrances, because I found them too sweet or floral.

Suddenly, people were stopping me in the street to ask what perfume I was wearing. I was really proud!” she recounts, with a burst of laughter characteristic of her vibrant and joyful humour.

“I was really proud when I got the offer.

I immediately thought of the amazing commercial that JeanPaul Goude made with Vanessa Paradis in a birdcage. Also, I have a real admiration for Coco Chanel. For the woman she was, a free woman in the strongest sense of the word. And for the designer able to create clothing that everyone could wear. Coco Chanel is timeless and her creations precisely express her free spirit.”

Speaking of family, both those that we inherit and those that we create, this story between Coco Mademoiselle and Knightley could only be written with the imagination of the filmmaker who has 14

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stayed by her side for almost 10 years: Joe Wright.

“Joe is the first filmmaker who really believed in me. The first one who told me that he liked the way I acted. And hearing those words when you’re only 19 is just priceless,” she says.

These compliments honoured a young woman who, as far back as she could remember, had always wanted to be an actress, probably due to the fact that her father was an actor and her mother a screenwriter. Bend it Like Beckham and Pirates of the Caribbean would be the first films to introduce her to the public, even though she had made her debut in front of a movie camera at the age of nine. But it was Pride and Prejudice, shot in 2005 by Joe Wright, that would change the way people considered her and earn her an Oscar nomination.

Arising from the very traditional auditioning process, this collaboration would lead to two other fulllength films to date: Atonement and Anna Karenina. “Neither Joe nor I could ever have imagined that this collaboration would continue for so many years. Having this creative relationship with him is an incredible chance for me. We saw each other grow up, personally and professionally. And working with someone you know

and who knows you just as well changes absolutely everything. We can create a story together more quickly. As a result, of course, the way that people see our work changes. Little by little, an expectation developed that didn’t exist for Pride and Prejudice or Atonement.”

But this in no way detracts from the essential: the unique vision that Joe Wright has of her and the continuously renewed way in which she inspires him. “On a set, Joe is very quiet and he gives me space. He gives me very simple, concise and clear directions. I have complete trust in his taste, which I can always count on. And a glance between us is all it takes to get a message across.”

But working together also means trying new experiences. Before their shared adventure on the Coco Mademoiselle

advertisements, neither of them had ever shot a commercial. They had to find their marks in this formal exercise with its specific codes, but as always, this took place very smoothly between them.

“For the first campaign, Joe came to present his idea to me and he brought the hat that I would wear at the beginning of the film as an offering!” It was a gesture that set the tone for the shoot, where, amidst a series of mirrors, Keira Knightley lit up the screen in a magnificent red dress created especially for the occasion by Karl Lagerfeld.

For the second episode, the mood changed. We rediscovered her, as bewitching as ever, in a skin-tight jumpsuit that gorgeously hugged the curves of her body as she rode through Paris on a motorcycle, quickening the pulse of her

suitor, a photographer this time.

“This girl controls everything. She’s not a typical ‘nice’ girl. She likes to play with others, manipulate them.” And this mischievousness and impudence lie at the heart of the third volume of the saga, in which she tantalizes her prey at a party, before she slips away again, this time at the helm of a boat on the Seine.

“We shot this moment at 4am to see the sun rise. It was sublime,” she says. It was probably as sublime as the stage design created by Aline Bonetto, who won two César awards for her work with Jean-Pierre Jeunet on Amélie and A Very Long Engagement and who had already developed the stage design of the previous Coco Mademoiselle film.

In this new, third film, we can notably admire an imposing staircase that plays

with the initials CC, which Keira Knightley, now bedecked with a sublime white dress, walks down with majestic delight. Even though she cheated…

“With my high heels, I was bouncing on the stairs and I was really afraid of breaking my neck. So Joe kindly allowed me to go down the stairs with bare feet. But don’t tell anyone!”

Her sin is confessed but forgiven when you discover the scene played to the tune of She’s Not There by the British 60s pop group The Zombies.

And while we wait to discover more of her rich cinematic promise with four films she stars in being released in 2014, we can also assume that Knightley will return to Joe Wright one day for a new adventure with Chanel. There’s no doubt about it: she is Coco Mademoiselle!

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Photo: Jacob Sammut

INTERVIEW

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a woman’s

WORTH

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Coryse Borg met LORRAINE SPITERI, the Chairperson of the Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations (MCWO), to discuss women’s position in today’s Malta. t the time of writing, there’s a poster about women and empowerment going round the social media, principally Facebook. It tells the story of Hillary Clinton, who wrote to NASA at age 13 enquiring how she could become an astronaut. She was told that there were no female astronauts; so she became Secretary of State instead. This is a true story, recounted by Ms Clinton herself during a recent speech, of a woman who ‘reached for the stars’ and consequently got far. But is this the norm for women in today’s world?

This was an issue I recently discussed with Lorraine Spiteri, the Chairperson of the Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations.

A proud mother of three, a Masters graduate from the University of Manchester, and also a Managing Partner of a Cooperative, she has been involved in the women's movement in Malta for the past 30 years.

“I was a feminist before I even knew there was a feminist movement. I felt I needed to give my contribution because I wanted a better future and more opportunities for our daughters than the ones I had. A better life for women means a better life for society at large, including men,” she said.

“A lot of people think of feminists in a negative way: as women who hate men. But, of course, this is not the case. If you believe that men and women should have the same rights, then you are a feminist, even if you’re a man,” she added.

The Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations was founded in 2004, and Ms Spiteri represents the ‘Women's Study Group’ – one of the founding members. There are about 14 other important women’s organisations that range from trade unions, employers’ unions and business sectors to social and culture groups and civil rights groups. The Confederation represents the concerns, needs and interests of women from all walks of life through dialogue. Through its member organisations, it represents over 24,000 Maltese women.

Their main objectives are issues about women in the labour market and in decision making, and violence against women.

The Confederation is a full member of the European Women's Lobby – the largest umbrella organisation of women’s associations in the European Union, which works to promote women’s rights and equality between women and men.

“In Malta I feel that we are going through a very interesting phase at the moment. The role of women is going through a transition. On one hand, we have a very strong cultural ideology that restricts

women in doing what they want to do in life; on the other, we have women participating more and more in the labour market, whether because of financial constraints, being part of the EU or being influenced by what happens abroad. And the participation of women in the labour market has a lot of benefits,” Ms Spiteri asserted.

Of course, with Malta still being at the bottom of the European table as far as the number of women in the workplace is concerned, she admitted that there is much room for improvement.

“There has been a gradual increase. There are more women in tertiary education and more women in the workforce. But it’s not enough. People’s opinions are shaped by what they do and what they believe they know. We tend to ‘label’ people and use stereotypes in our daily lives – we tend to see mothers as nurturing and fathers as ‘hard’ for example – and that also puts ourselves in a situation which affects how we behave,” she explained.

So what can be done so that future generations recognise a woman’s worth, especially when it comes to the workplace?

“Education is the key,” she replied. “It's not easy to change a culture and to change the mentality of policy and decision-makers. The MCWO tries to lobby and do as much awareness-raising as possible, but we don't want to preach to the converted. We want to reach out to everyone. Would you like your daughters or granddaughters to have better options in their lives? If so – man or woman – you should want to create a situation where both males and females are allowed to fulfill their full potential.”

The lack of affordable childcare is one factor which puts off mothers from going to work and the MCWO recently welcomed the government’s free childcare initiative which will be offered to all working parents and those still studying as from next month. This will allow them to send their children to any public or private quality childcare centre and the government will bear the cost.

Next up for the MCWO is an event to be organised on 2 April – a public debate that will discuss gender parity in democracy. The event, which is supported by the EU Parliament representation in Malta, will take place in Valletta. It is open to the public but registration is required as seating will be limited.

I WAS A FEMINIST BEFORE I KNEW THERE WAS A FEMINIST MOVEMENT. I FELT I NEEDED TO GIVE MY CONTRIBUTION BECAUSE I WANTED A BETTER FUTURE AND MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR DAUGHTERS THAN THE ONES I HAD

Find more information about the MCWO and about the public debate on the website: www.mcwo.net, on their Facebook page or via e-mail: mail@mcwo.net FIRST MARCH 2014

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FASHION

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stylish sophisticate Get inspired with delicate lace, sequins and solids.

Black dress by Vera Mont exclusively from MEI; Nour gold necklace, bracelet and ChiaraP clutch bag all exclusively from PORTO FIRST MARCH 2014

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FASHION

Lace white dress by Vera Mont exclusively from MEI; Nour red droplets earrings, matching necklace and purple ChiaraP clutch bag all exclusively from PORTO 20

FIRST MARCH 2014

FASHION

Navy blue dress with lace

by Vera Mont exclusively from MEI; Nour silver earrings exclusively from PORTO; silver sandals from MILĂ™ BY MIMI 22

FIRST MARCH 2014

FASHION

Black dress with sequins exclusively from MILĂ™ BY MIMI; Coeur de Lion necklace, earrings, bracelet and ChiaraP clutch bag all exclusively from PORTO 24

FIRST MARCH 2014

FASHION

Pink suit and spotted shirt both exclusively from MAX&Co; silver Nour necklace and bracelet both exclusively from PORTO 26

FIRST MARCH 2014

MODEL Sandrina Spiteri Gonzi PHOTOGRAPHY Bernard Polidano STYLIST Claire Bondin Gafà MAKE-UP Natasha Polidano HAIR Xevo’ by Wayne, New Street in Msida Road, Santa Venera Tel: 2149 5842 CLOTHES & ACCESSORIES MAX&Co, High Street, Sliema Tel 2131 6360 MILÙ

BY MIMI Triq il-Grazzja, Haz-Zebbug. Tel 7947 1382 MEI Westin Dragonara Resort, St Julian’s Tel 2374 5031 PORTO Portomaso Tel 2137 2079

Blue dress and matching jacket both exclusively from MAX&Co; Nour chunky earrings and Drap clutch bag exclusively from PORTO FIRST MARCH 2014

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HEALTH

LIVING WITH MBC IS DIFFERENT FROM LIVING WITH PRIMARY BREAST CANCER WHICH CAN BE REMOVED, AND MAY OR MAY NOT RETURN. WITH MBC YOU KNOW IT WILL NEVER GO AWAY

Living With Cancer

WARRIOR WOMEN

n the recently published WHO Cancer Report 2014, the World Health Organisation bleakly predicted a 70 per cent increase in the number of cancer cases around the globe over the next 20 years. Topping the list of the most common diagnosis for women is breast cancer.

Known simply as MBC, Metastatic Breast Cancer is the stage wherein breast cancer has spread beyond its primary site and is affecting other sites within the body. Doris Fenech and Evelyn Vella Brincat have two very different stories to tell, but their brush with MBC has seen them facing the same fate.

Doris reflects upon my question on how it feels to live with MBC. “Living with it is different from living with primary breast cancer which can be removed, and may or may not return. With MBC you know it will never go away. What you don’t know is how long treatment will work. I compare it to Russian roulette or walking a tight rope. Depending on where the cancer has affected the body, you start having physical problems – reduced mobility, 28

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shortness of breath and so on. It’s a very tiring journey.”

Doris’ breast cancer initially manifested itself in a benign form when she was approaching the end of a pregnancy, re-surfacing again two years later as malignant, at which point she underwent a mastectomy. This happened 18 years ago when she was 37.

Over the years, the breast cancer metastatised, spreading to other parts of her body.

Evelyn’s story is somewhat different. "Early in 2005 I started suffering from severe lower backache caused by multiple slipped discs but rest and medication made me feel better. At that time I had successfully contested local council elections and was invited to meet Pembroke’s twinning counterparts in Wales in September, but a couple of days into my visit I could hardly move, walk or sleep. Although I rested a lot, I arrived back in Malta on a wheelchair.

“An MRI scan revealed full blown cancer. Further diagnosis showed HER2 positive breast cancer, so aggressive that it

develops and spreads throughout the body without even having time to manifest in the breast. By the time I had started treatment, my cancer had reached stage four, the incurable metastatic stage.”

The two women met via Europa Donna Malta, an independent non-profit organisation with members from 46 affiliated groups around Europe. As the European Breast Cancer Coalition, Europa Donna works to raise awareness of breast cancer and mobilise the support of European women in pressing for improved breast cancer education, appropriate screening, optimal treatment and increased funding for research. It represents the interests of European women regarding breast cancer, to local and national authorities as well as to institutions of the European Union.

In Malta the Breast Care Support Group celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. After 10 years in operation, the group became an affiliated member of Europa Donna and changed its name to Europa Donna Malta. Apart from enriching its level of

Photo: Jacob Sammut

Meeting people suffering from breast cancer can be a heart-wrenching experience; but meeting DORIS FENECH and EVELYN VELLA BRINCAT, who are living with Metastatic Breast Cancer, turned out to be also a lesson in courage for writer Marika Azzopardi. expertise and intervention by means of foreign contacts, Europa Donna Malta works locally by supporting breast cancer patients and their carers. The group pioneers actively to raise awareness and lobbies for the provision of better care and treatment of breast cancer in Malta.

Doris and Evelyn have now set up the MBC Group within Europa Donna Malta. Although still in its early stages, the group composed of a few ‘warrior ladies’ as Evelyn describes herself and the others, welcomes similarly effected people suffering from MBC. Doris who is also the the Vice President and National Representative of Europa Donna Malta says: “People suffering from MBC can be both men and women since breast cancer manifests in both sexes. MBC impacts on daily life in several ways – we have to have frequent and regular hospital treatments and investigations. The type of medication varies from chemotherapy, radiotherapy, biological treatment, or hormonal treatment.

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HEALTH “Routine checks are done every couple of months or more frequently depending on the response of the cancer to the treatment. These may include blood tests, scans and biopsies apart from the regular checks by the doctor. Some people end up losing their job due to this situation. This has led us to start lobbying for Health Leave to be introduced in Malta as happens in other countries – an important way to safeguard the employmet of people with such chronic illness. We are lobbying for the setting up of an MBC registry, even whilst fully aware that this is non existent in most other European countries.”

MBC can be diagnosed at any age, and will effect any or several organs within the body. Some people suffer breathlessness (because of the cancer’s effect on the lungs), behavioural problems (brain) and lack of mobility (bones).

Evelyn is a case in point.

“Although I have always been a highly active person, I had to stop working and hence our financial position took a deep plunge since we also had to spend thousands of Euro on medicines. With my bones effected I have limited mobility and hence even simple things in the kitchen or bathroom have become a big chore. Nonetheless, I still strive to be independent.

“The most encouraging thing in my life is the belief that every day new medication is being developed. I hope there will come a day when a total cure for cancer is found, and metastasis will no longer remain incurable. The love and support of my family and friends, as well as the love my dogs give me, help to make my life more beautiful,” she says.

“Treatment for breast cancer has improved a lot over the years,” adds Doris. “When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer there was no Herceptin. I have now been taking it for almost 18 months. Incidentally, in the last year three new

treatments have been launched which show very promising results. One of the groups’ aims is to lobby for the latest and best treatment to be available in Malta.”

Evelyn was one of the people whose efforts contributed greatly to the introduction of Herceptin in Malta. As she explains: “I fought relentlessly to have it inserted into the government formulary. I know many women who have taken it since, women who would not have been able to afford it otherwise.

“It’s actually how my fight for cancer patients’ rights started. Suffice to say that the initial medicine bill totalled some €92,000 which I could not afford, and since the medicine was not available on the Government formulary, we had to raise the funds ourselves. The government medicine formulary list should include the best medication as it becomes available – because MBC strikes young women who are always somebody’s mother, wife, daughter, sister, cousin or friend.”

The two women’s fight for life is remarkable. Doris, who celebrates her 30th wedding anniversary this year and has two daughters in their 20s, still manages to travel to several countries to continue her involvement with Europa Donna.

Evelyn who is also married and the mother of two adult children, is active in varied spheres including politics, animal welfare and sports.

Through their common work within Europa Donna Malta and the creation of the MBC Group, they are together focusing a spotlight on this chronic illness, as well as lobbying for cancer patients’ rights regardless of their financial or social standing.

To find out more about Europa Donna Malta and the MBC group call 9999 4666 or 2148 2602 or send an e-mail to info@europadonnamalta.org

PROMOTION

the SUV of tnehweMercefdeus-Btenuz GLrAeclass. Photographs by John Peel.

Colin Fitz test drives the brand

rom the moment you’ve slipped into the airy interior, cosseted yourself in the driving seat and gripped the magnificent leather steering wheel of this compact SUV, you know you’re in the company of something special. From the trio of centre air vents with

aircraft-style bezels and smooth-to-rotate ventilation adjustment, to the soft-touch door plastics, stitched-leather armrests, generously-lined glovebox and tablet-like screen hovering away from the instrument panel but still in the driver's line of sight, the GLA exudes class.

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Mind you, I had already fallen for the vehicle when I saw its shapely, slightly elevated form the first time. The exterior is a successful combination of part sporty hatchback, part tall estate and part rugged crossover. Rugged details in the lower-body, like a prominent skid-plate area in front and sill guards, help point out that this is a tough and dynamic machine.

“With its striking features the GLA embodies our progressive thinking and enthrals with its off-road proportions,” Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design at Daimler AG, the MercedesBenz parent company, told journalists at its global launch. “The clearly defined surfaces convey power and serenity, and we have managed to combine as much emotional appeal as possible with as much clarity as necessary.”

I couldn’t have put it better myself.

Just look at the accompanying photos, taken after a hugely enjoyable drive to Ċirkewwa: that purposeful stance, with flowing lines and gentle curves in all the right places making a definite statement in the Mediterranean sunshine.

As the fourth instalment in a recent new breed of MercedesBenz compact cars, the GLA-Class is a slightly larger, more practical, light-offroad-capable version of the A-Class hatchback on which it is based, a tad sportier than the more practicallyminded B-Class. It’s 125mm longer, 61mm taller and 24mm wider than the A-Class, and offers an extra 80-litres of boot space. The A-Class is already the roomiest car in its category for rear-seat passengers, so the advantage the GLA offers over the hatchback is more headroom.

The sweet nature of the 2.1-litre turbo diesel engine in the car I drove (the range also includes petrol versions) is immediately obvious. At all but the highest revs it is supremely quiet, and even then it segues into a crisp and raunchy, yet still refined, note. On the road, acceleration is incredible, and all the power 34

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one needs to overtake is there when needed, as was proven on my trek around the roads in the North of the island. An ‘Eco’ option ensured the rev counter didn’t rise above 3000 RPM – yet I can’t say I noticed any dampening in the performance envelope I needed at any point of the journey.

The seamless automatic gear changes could only be described as impressive, while wind noise around the pillars with the windows up was conspicuous by its absence. As for handling, cornering with enthusiasm offered no problem to the superbly judged suspension set up. The machine is also, as expected for the brand, smooth over disappointing road surfaces.

There are both two and four-wheel drive versions available but I think most people will opt for the standard two-wheel drive, which, like the A-Class, has a front-wheel drive layout.

What really shines through with the GLA is the quality of the finish. It feels as well built and as upmarket as larger MercedesBenz models, and the thud when I closed the doors simply underscored the overall reassuring experience.

As a day-to-day companion, the Mercedes-Benz GLA, with its flexible and variable interior (the rear seat backrests can not only be folded down completely, but are also adjustable for angle) cannot fail to be on the checklist of discerning people looking for a car in this popular segment. The vehicle is an impressive entry into the compact SUV segment, and I envisage it lightfootedly mastering all day-to-day challenges a modern family that likes its motoring serene could put it through.

Find out more about the Mercedes-Benz GLA by visiting the Auto Sales Ltd showroom in Mosta Road, Lija or by logging on to www.mercedes-benz.com.mt

THEATRE

curtain call

CHARLOTTE GRECH is a freelance Features Contributor and Drama Teacher who has established herself as a regular fixture on the Maltese stage since she made her debut in the late 1980s. Her next appearance will be in Unifaun’s Dario Fo comedy double bill at Teatru Manoel later this month.

What have been your most memorable parts so far? have been involved in acting since I was 17 – that’s a very long time. I’ve been lucky to have been challenged by a lot of roles from Panto to classics to more contemporary stuff. Every role is different and when you’re on stage, it’s eyeopening every time. It is a very humbling process really. Some roles which I feel truly privileged to have played are Clytemenestra, Juliet, Piaf, Helena in As You Like It, Lady Macbeth, Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, and Mia in Immaculate. Looking back, I can say that I have tried my hand at many different tasks... some worked, others didn’t. I keep coming back to the tasks I truly love. Meanwhile, becoming a mother along the was the cherry on the top!

I TOOK UP ACTING BECAUSE I WAS VERY SHY, BUT ALSO ALWAYS EAGER TO TRY NEW THINGS. I WANTED TO HAVE A GO AFTER SEEING A GOOD FRIEND SUCCEEDING ON STAGE Is it correct to say that you have reduced the frequency of your appearances in recent years? If so, what was the reason?

I never stopped appearing in plays but there was a natural slowdown due to the fact that I, like some other actresses in my age bracket, do not fit into the roles of plays currently being put on. With our own theatre group, Theatre Anon, I don’t feel constrained with age issues when portraying roles as a lot of the performances are devised pieces. Also since my partner is also an actor, we sometimes have to take it in turns.

Someone has to do the childminding!

Why did you take up acting in the first place?

I took up acting because I was very shy, but also always eager to try new things. I wanted to have a go after seeing a good friend succeeding on stage. I joined drama school, took several courses, and as they say, the rest is history. I would like to keep on going, as much as physically possible, but I also would like to co-direct 36

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and learn ‘new tricks’.

There is still life to come, one always hopes...

Did you ever feel typecast or constrained at any point in your stage career?

Never. I have played such a wide variety of roles that it never occurred to me.

Do you have any memorable or amusing anecdotes from your theatrical life so far that you can share with us?

Plenty. I distinctly remember about to go out into a scene without making the appropriate costume change. In the wings, the backstage crew had a good laugh. I remember going up a ladder which was not fixed properly in Kiss me Kate and I was literally swinging along the top of the Manoel stage throughout a song.

What’s your theatrical ambition?

There are roles I would have liked to play, in Antony & Cleoptra, in a lot of Ibsen plays, and in the play Lorca.

But it’s pointless sulking about it. “Onwards we go” is my motto and sharing a love of theatre, in whatever form, with others will always be top of my priority list.

Tell us about the plays you’re currently in.

I haven’t done a farce in a long time. It’s all down to timing it right and of course being believable. It’s great fun with such a mad and rowdy cast and director! This is theatre which is very taxing as your mind has to remember lots of stuff as well as be ready to deal with stuff coming at you, not necessarily the scripted sort.

You have to be very very sharp.

Is it your first experience with Unifaun Productions and with the director Chris Gatt?

It’s my first time performing with Adrian Buckle’s Unifaun productions. It took me a long time to get there. But I’ve worked with Chris Gatt before. He’s a veteran, equally at home doing classics, Shakespeare, pantomime, musicals and farce.

It’s always great fun working with him – he knows how to get the best out of each actor and story.

Alan Montanaro, Philip Stilon and Coryse Borg

A COMEDY FEAST Unifaun presents a double bill of two Dario Fo farces which guarantees a hugely entertaining night out. The plays will involve a stellar cast including Alan Montanaro, Alan Paris, Mikhail Basmadjian, Philip Stilon, Renato Dimech, Coryse Borg, Magda Van Kuilenburg and Charlotte Grech.

Direction is in the hands of Chris Gatt.

In The Virtuous Burglar, a burglar enters a house with the intent to steal but the owners come back while he is still there.

He is caught red-handed, but as matters develop, the owner is unable to have him arrested for fear of having an affair revealed. Throughout the remainder of the play, lots of other characters arrive, and each turns out to be hiding an affair of their own.

In Marcolfa, old Marcolfa wins the lottery and is suddenly the centre of attention for the men around her. This play is being given its world premiere in English having only been performed in Italian so far.

Tell us about the parts you play...

Shows will be performed on Sat 29 and Sun30 March, and on Fri 4 and Sun 6 April at 8pm at Teatru Manoel.

For details find Unifaun on Facebook or go to www.sjcav.org

I play a different role in each of the one act plays. Dario Fo’s women are very upfront and know a lot, even though sometimes they play around with it. They tease, jolt and make up.

Why should people come and watch the show?

Because it’s hilarious and will make a great night out.

Period.

Young actors are very lucky today. They have loads of opportunities here and abroad. I’d say go for it – get involved, muck in, learn the ropes and get advice from anyone who is willing to help out. It could be one of the most rewarding and life-changing experiences of your life.

CHARLOTTE’S WORLD Hobbies: Theatre, travel and cooking for small and big crowds.

Favourite actor: I like Daniel Day Lewis, Michael Fassbinder, Brad Pitt, Edward Norton, Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch amongst others.

Favourite play/show: When you’ve watched as many as I have, you can’t have a favourite. I like watching dance theatre nd contemporary strong plays as well as classics turned on their heads.

Favourite music: I listen to a lot of classical music and jazz but have recently also tuned into pop and dance again.

Charlotte with one of her costars in the Dario Fo plays, Mikhail Basmadjian

Photos: Joseph A Borg

Is there any advice you feel you can share with younger readers who aspire to take up acting — perhaps even professionally?

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COVER STORY

Photo: Jacob Sammut

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at home with PIERRE &

MIREILLE

Colin Fitz visited the Żebbug home of this month’s cover star Mireille Bonello and her husband Pierre Cordina for a chat about her latest project: a TV programme called ‘M Fashions Malta’. ituated in a quiet alley in one of the older parts of Żebbug, Pierre and Mireille’s home is a charming mix of classic Maltese farmhouse and modern minimalist design. Bought as a 400-year-old ground floor unconverted property, the couple added an upstairs floor, accessible by an avant garde wooden staircase and decorated in various subdued hues. The couple has been living here since they got married six years ago.

“It’s not finished yet. We’re still in the process of concluding decorating the bedrooms,” Pierre tells me. “But with all the work and family commitments, it’s not always easy to find the time to add the finishing touches.”

And work hard they do: in fact, I am sipping a beer in their large kitchen-dining-living room while listening to Mireille outline her latest television project, a programme called M Fashions Malta broadcast on Net TV every Sunday at 5pm.

Following the launch and subsequent success of the couple’s fashion boutique Milù by Mimi nearly three years ago, it made perfect sense for the 33-year-old to go back to her roots to bring together her presenting talent and her fashion business project.

Mireille’s first appearance on TV came in a programme about arts and crafts called Il-Bogħod mil-Vizzji around 14 years ago. Since then she has become a household name, noted for presenting successful Saturday variety shows and the highly popular festithemed summer programme Forċina.

“M Fashions Malta is, of course, a play on the name of our boutique,” she explains. “Like the shop, the programme is aimed at women who are looking for the perfect outfit for an occasion, whether it’s a wedding, a baptism or their child’s first Holy Communion. Viewers are given the opportunity to see how they can look their best. Our experts style their hair and do their make-up and they also try different dresses to see which suits them best and why.”

The former model insists the programme is not a makeover show but an educational journey into the world of looking your best for an occasion. The show also incorporates a model competition, a lighthearted personality interview slot, and the advice of four specialists:

Dr Tyrone Pillow (aesthetic beauty), Dr Mario Caruana (nutrition), Dr Frank Portelli (medicine) and Peter Callus, who demonstrates easy exercises for viewers to do at home.

“As long as I’ve known her, which is nearly 14 years now, I’ve always known Mireille as the person people came to for style advice and to borrow clothes. So when we started going out I told her that one day we’d open a boutique for her,” beams Pierre. “And the dream came true. I’m delighted for us both: my own dream of presenting a daily radio show has also come true recently.”

Although the 36-year-old is the chief financial officer of a shipping company, he is better known for his DJ exploits over the last 20 years. He has been one of the DJs at the annual Isle of MTV extravaganzas since their inception, rubbing shoulders with celebrities like Enrique Iglesias and Lady Gaga along the way, but he also has hordes of Maltese fans who delight in his music in clubs, and now every morning on the Pierre and Co. breakfast show on RTK radio.

Time for me to go, and I reluctantly refuse their offer of staying for dinner because of a prior engagement. Pierre is apparently the house chef and artichokes are on the menu. On the way out I notice their extensive collection of mementoes collected from their many travels, often work-related, but at least one foreign holiday a year: a Buddha from Thailand here, a clock from Amsterdam there, and a collection of shot glasses from the nearly 20 countries they’ve visited so far.

It’s no surprise that the house isn’t finished, what with all this travel, his two jobs and her producing and presenting her TV show, running their shop and concurrently studying accountancy. But for a thoroughly modern working couple, they have an immensely traditional way of keeping their spirits up and their love from being overwhelmed by the demands of modern life.

“We believe that God is in our lives and we take our religion seriously. He gives us energy and courage,” Pierre says earnestly.

And while Mireille nods her total agreement, she can’t resist mischievously adding her thanks to the Lord for giving her the strength to put up with her husband. In fact the pair tease each other constantly throughout the interview: it must be said, they are what the Italians would call an extremely simpatico couple.

AS LONG AS I’VE KNOWN HER, WHICH IS NEARLY 14 YEARS NOW, I’VE ALWAYS KNOWN MIREILLE AS THE PERSON PEOPLE CAME TO FOR STYLE ADVICE AND TO BORROW CLOTHES

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DINING OUT SPECIAL

an alternative to the g eginning this week, Le Bistro is introducing a fresh new menu featuring tasty ingredients offering alternatives to the great classics. Simply delicious favourites with a twist! New specialities include surf ‘n’ turf, a 100 per cent beef burger and a delicious selection of pies.

A lighter variety of dishes are being offered in our lunch menu, served daily between 11.30am and 6pm, whilst a more indulgent and lavish dining menu is available later on in the day. A wide range of desserts including a selection of cakes, ice creams and sorbets, ensure that there’s something for every sweet tooth out there.

Le Bistro offers daily specials inspired by our talented chefs and prepared using fresh seasonal ingredients. With friendly staff members, outside seating, relaxed atmosphere and great views, Le Bistro is perfect for business lunches, family dinners or a relaxed catch-up with friends.

Open seven-days-a-week between 11:30am till 11pm from Monday to Sunday, Le Bistro is conveniently located in the heart of St Julian’s within the Radisson Blu Resort, St Julian’s. For more details call: 2137 4894 or visit: www.radissonblu.com/stjuliansresort-malta/dining Photos by George Scintilla 42

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e great classics

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DINING OUT SPECIAL

a delicious and innovative new menu aterbiscuit, the award-winning restaurant located on St George’s Bay, has recently launched a new menu offering a gastronomic experience that will delight all with healthy, luscious, lunches and dinners. In line with Waterbiscuit’s concept of ever-changing with trends, the new à la carte menu jumps to the forefront of the Maltese culinary experience with delicious and innovative dishes for all to enjoy. The menu has an emphasis on using healthy and organic ingredients from across the Mediterranean, all sourced from the best producers. Patrons will be pleased to discover that some of the old favourites will still be featured on the new menu.

Breakfast continues to be served daily and promises to provide a wake-up call with a creative à la carte menu which includes an

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array of options for the diet conscious. For those who wish to indulge in a truly unique breakfast, the restaurant boasts a selection of six different types of Eggs Benedict, the signature dish of Waterbiscuit. There is a large selection of teas and coffees available to guests who wish to be provided with a boost in whatever variety they choose.

Split over two stylish floors, Waterbiscuit promises a chic-yetrelaxed atmosphere that makes for the perfect setting for every conceivable occasion. It is a truly contemporary location ideal for a business rendezvous, social gathering, casual dining and nightlife.

Waterbiscuit allows patrons to choose to lounge at the bar with an extensive variety of cocktails and wines that will both tease and delight the senses; the atmosphere is relaxed and offers a modern and stylish feel.

For further information or to make a reservation, call 2376 2225, e-mail: info@waterbiscuit.com.mt or visit waterbiscuit.com.mt

DINING OUT SPECIAL

premium boutique wines No dining out experience is complete without a bottle from the collection of MERIDIANA WINE ESTATE. eridiana Wine Estate is situated in Ta Qali, Malta’s agricultural heartland. The estate measures 19 hectares, making it one of Malta’s largest single vineyards. Considered to be a boutique winery, Meridiana produces approximately 140,000 bottles of premium wines annually, spread over ten labels.

Most of the wine produced sells in local restaurants, with a limited amount of bottles reserved for export to select niche markets such as Denmark, Japan and Belgium and to private clients in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Baltis IGT Meridiana Wine Estate has just launched the latest addition to their range of premium wines.

Made exclusively from raisined Moscato grapes, the golden yellow Baltis has a bouquet of dried figs, sultana raisins, dates, hints of citrus and slightly toasted honey notes. The wine’s luscious palate is enhanced by its fresh, crisp finish.

The name Baltis recalls the sun goddess worshipped by Phoenician traders around the Mediterranean.

This wine is made from grapes that have been allowed to partially dry out on racks in the sun, thus concentrating their sugar. Like all Meridiana wines, Baltis is made from handharvested, carefully selected, locally grown grapes. This sweet wine is usually served slightly chilled, with cheese, with dessert, or as a delicious after-meal treat. Baltis’ first vintage (2012) yielded just 405 bottles.

Isis DOK ISIS has a brilliant, straw-yellow colour with a pale green rim; a complex, aromatic blend of grapefruit and other exotic fruits; and a well-structured, citrus taste with a long, pleasantly acidic, finish. The name ‘Isis’ recalls the Phoenician goddess of sailors whose vigilant eye still graces the prow of the Maltese fishing luzzu.

Astarte DOK Astarte has a vibrant, straw-yellow colour with a pale green rim, intense aromas of tropical and citrus fruits with hints of flowers, and a fresh citrus taste with a pleasantly acidic finish. The name ‘Astarte’ recalls the Phoenician goddess of fertility worshipped in Malta during the Punic period.

Nexus DOK Nexus has a clear, deep, purple-red colour, intense, ripe, cherry-plum aromas, and rich, fruit flavours with soft tannins and a long finish. The name ‘Nexus’ celebrates the marriage between Malta’s Old World geographical location and Meridiana’s New World vinicultural technology.

More info about Meridiana wines may be obtained from www.meridiana.com.mt. The entire range of Meridiana premium wines is available from S. Rausi Trading Ltd of Stadium Street, Gzira. Tel: 2133 0447 or go to www.srausi.com FIRST MARCH 2014

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PROMOTION

cooking technology FRIMA’s space age technology is now available for your kitchen. rima’s objective is to offer maximum benefits to the people who cook food in large-scale and commercial kitchens. For decades, the Frima brand has stood for superior technology for cooking appliances used in commercial kitchens. Today, the idea of producing top food quality time and time again, simply and efficiently, has reached a new dimension with the VarioCooking Center Multificiency. You will be convinced every day by the excellent cooking results that you achieve with it. Thanks to integrated technology a lot of cooking techniques such as heating milk to perfection or avoiding food sticking to equipment are inbuilt within this space age cooking machine giving you perfect results with no supervision, which is something that till today was unobtainable using other equipment.

Best cooking results Uniform temperature distribution, no hot /cold zones, pinpoint heat control, the fastest heating and cooling times and valuable reserve power guarantee fantastic cooking results.

Lifetime service You have access to free advice on applications, software updates and local service specialists. You also gain maximum benefits for all your requirements and with previously unmatched efficiency.

Incredible flexibility Frima has combined the functions of conventional cooking appliances such as tilting pans, pasta cookers, griddles, deep fat and shallow fryers into a single and superior machine.

Important plus points

Frima automatically fills water and boils it in just four minutes. Oil is also heated in four minutes.

No more loads of dishes to wash, no mess on the floor. Keeps the kitchen clean.

This patented cooking system offers many other advantages: boiling, frying, deep-frying in one unit, three times as fast with great precision and consuming 40% less energy while keeping a cleaner kitchen. Ask the people who are already using it!

Easy to use

Need more convincing?

All made possible by the self-explanatory controls, built-in intelligent cooking, consistent quality cooking, safe working and simplest cleaning.

Worldwide Limited, local distributors for Frima in Malta, is offering prospective clients the possibility to test the VarioCooking Center Multificiency for two weeks to experience the myriad of advantages this system provides.

Efficiency

Maximum productivity Cook faster and save 10% of food, 30% space, 70% water, 40% of energy and gain lots of time.

For a demonstration, trial and more information contact Worldwide Ltd on 2149 7706, 2144 7904 or e-mail on wwide@wwideco.com

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cheese

Cooking with

Photo: Jonathan Borg

FOOD

ANTON B. DOUGALL prepares some mouthwatering cheese dishes that leave you wanting more.

Meat balls with cheese casserole Ingredients to make 24 For the meatballs 2 tbsp olive oil 150g onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed 900g freshly minced beef 2 tbsp freshly chopped herbs, such as marjoram 1 free-range egg, beaten Salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 tbsp olive oil 100g grated parmesan For the tomato sauce 3 tbsp olive oil 110g onion, sliced 1 garlic clove, crushed 150g fresh mozzarella, grated 1 tsp sugar Salt and freshly ground black pepper 800g tomatoes (or 2x400g cans)

1. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy stainless steel saucepan over a gentle heat and add the onion and garlic.

Cover and sweat for four mins, until soft and a little golden. Allow to cool.

2. In a bowl, mix the minced beef with the cold sweated onion and garlic. Add the herbs and the beaten egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Add parmesan cheese.

3. Fry a tiny bit to check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Divide the mixture into approximately 24 round balls.

Cover the meatballs and refrigerate until required.

4. Meanwhile, make the tomato sauce.

Heat the oil in a stainless steel saucepan.

5. Add the sliced onion and the crushed

garlic, toss until coated, cover, and sweat on a gentle heat until they are soft and a pale golden colour.

6. Slice the tomatoes and add, with all the juice, to the onion mixture.

7. Season the contents with sugar, salt and freshly ground pepper.

8. Cook the tomatoes uncovered for approximately 30 mins (meanwhile make the meatballs).

9. Heat a frying pan and cook the meatballs for about 10 mins in about three tablespoons of olive oil.

10. When they are cooked, put them into an ovenproof dish with the tomato sauce and top with the grated mozzarella.

Place under a preheated grill until the cheese has melted.

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FOOD

Stuffed cheesy mushrooms Ingredients for four portions 12 whole fresh mushrooms 1 pkt cream cheese 50g grated parmesan cheese 50g chopped onions Garlic Olive oil Seasoning 80g shredded mozzarella Cayenne pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel.

Carefully break off stems. Chop the stems extremely finely, discarding their tough end.

2. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and chopped mushroom stems and the onions to the pan. Fry until any moisture has disappeared, taking care not to burn the garlic. Set aside to cool.

3. When the garlic & mushroom mixture is no longer hot, stir in cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the black & cayenne pepper.

The mixture should be very thick. Using a little spoon, fill each mushroom cap with a generous amount of stuffing. Arrange the mushroom caps on the prepared baking sheet. Put some mozzarella on top.

4. Bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the mushrooms are piping hot and liquid starts to form under the caps.

Creamy spinach and cheese Ingredients for four portions 1 kilo frozen spinach, thawed 1 teaspoon minced garlic 50g butter 30g flour 450ml fresh cream

100g grated Parmesan cheese Ground nutmeg Salt and pepper to taste 50g Gouda cheese or Fontina 120g shredded mozzarella

1. Thaw the frozen spinach in a colander and squeeze to get as much moisture out as possible (you can use fresh spinach if you like). Remove stalk, wash and cook in a little water.

Squeeze to remove any water when done.

2. In a sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté, stirring, until softened and aromatic. Add the flour and stir until blended. Cook, stirring, for about a minute.

3. Add the cream and cook, whisking constantly, until thickened.

4. Add the spinach and Parmesan cheese, then add the nutmeg and salt and pepper (to taste), and the other cheese (grated).

5. Put into a grease earthenware dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top.

6. Cook over a medium heat in the oven for 10 minutes. Serve hot as a first course with toast, or as a vegetable with a main dish.

Anton can be contacted via e-mail on info@tisjir.com or the website www.tisjir.com. Contact him for more information about his cooking club, Klabb tat-Tisjir 54

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PROMOTION

McDonald’s Player Escort – Live it!

Will you be following the FIFA World Cup this summer? McDonald’s is offering the unique opportunity to a lucky winner, and their accompanying parent or guardian, to attend a Semi-Final match in Brazil as a McDonald’s Player Escort. ver the years, McDonald’s has consistently played an active role in giving children this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by sponsoring this bespoke sporting event that brings together the stars of today, walking alongside the aspiring football stars of tomorrow, through the McDonald’s Player Escort Programme.

Imagine what it must feel like to walk onto the pitch of the largest football event of the year, holding the hand of an international footballing star! The McDonald’s Player Escort Programme promises this and more to a lucky child aged six to 10, and an accompanying parent or guardian, by offering an allinclusive four day trip to the world capital of football; Rio, Brazil.

This year’s winner will live the dream and take part in a specifically designed programme of events organised by McDonald’s. Apart from accompanying international football players onto the pitch, your child will also be offered the opportunity to meet with and cultivate new friendships with other Player Escorts from all over the world. In addition, the winning child will take part in Player Escort matches as well as being invited to

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explore first-hand the amazing and sights and sounds of the Brazilian capital.

Do you have a young footballer of your own and would like them to experience the event? Then you must submit an application online via McDonald’s Malta’s website www.mcdonalds.com.mt on behalf of your child and fill in all necessary details. You will then be asked to participate in a small football-related quiz. The first 115 participants to get all the questions right in the shortest time possible will make it to the finals!

The McDonald’s Player Escort Programme has been described as “a magical moment for the children when they finally see the players come into the tunnel and take hold of the hands of their heroes. They are literally living their dreams! It's an unparalleled moment for any sports fan and their parents are nearly as emotional as they are when they walk onto the pitch,” by David Grinberg, Head of McDonald's Brazil for the FIFA Confederations Cup 2013 and 2014 FIFA World Cup. The McDonald’s Player Escort Program will allow a child, and accompanying guardian, to live the dream and experience football like never before by offering an all-inclusive four-day trip to Brazil next July to the FIFA World Cup

Semi Finals.

The good news doesn’t stop here though! As of this year, McDonald’s has chosen to reward adults by allowing them to be part of the dream too.

The contest winner will be flown to Brazil for an inclusive four-night trip of a lifetime, to watch the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals.

Applications will be received through McDonald’s Malta’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/McDonaldsMT by clicking on the Contest Tab and entering required details. Participants will then proceed to a small football related quiz and asked to submit their answers.

Every week, for the duration of four consecutive weeks, the correct respondents will be selected and a lucky name will be randomly drawn during the live airings of Kontrattakk hosted on TVM2.

McDonald’s has proudly sponsored similar sporting events along the years to encourage children to enjoy themselves whilst being active. Through such initiatives, McDonald’s is able to bring sport to life outside its restaurants by offering unique opportunities as a gesture of gratitude to its community, not by simply inviting them to be part of the dream, but by allowing them to live it.

FITNESS

Andre lost 13 kilos and Norma lost 10 kilos in 20 weeks

twice as nice Meet ANDRE and NORMA CAMILLERI, a St Julian’s couple who took on Stellina’s Lifestyle Change together and as a result, can now hardly recall their previously unhealthy way of life.

Photo: Jonathan Borg

Photo: Claire Farrugia Photography

ndre is a 39-year-old Production Manager at a publishing company, while Norma is 38 and a Speech-Language Pathologist. Because of his previous lifestyle, Andre developed back pain because of the extra weight he was carrying around.

“The extra weight was also causing me to suffer from sleep apnoea, plus I would get tired quickly simply playing with our six-year-old daughter Chiara. I had stopped smoking in July 2012 and then realised that making a food and exercise related lifestyle change was the final step I needed to make,” he explains.

Norma cites a lack of energy as the main reason why she also felt it was time for a lifestyle change. “Years ago I used to train volleyball and dance, but over time I had left all that behind. I felt the need to tone up, lose weight and regain those healthy feelings. It was a boost to go for this change in partnership with my husband as we could help each other do it,” she says.

“We’ve known Stellina for over 20 years, and when we saw the results of her own lifestyle change as well as the results in her clients, we decided it was the option for us,” adds Andre.

At the time they decided to take up the challenge six months ago, Andre weighed 84 kilos while Norma was going on 67 kilos. Now Andre has gone down to 71 kilos while his wife is happy to weigh 57 kilos. Andre also calculates that he has lost two and a half inches of fat around his neck that has contributed to him sleeping much better at night.

“Stellina’s Lifestyle Change is not a ‘diet’, something you start and then stop,” says Norma. “Strictly speaking, the meaning of the word ‘diet’ is what you eat and how you eat it. What Dalton Wingfield (manager at Stellina’s Lifestyle Changes), Norma, Stellina, Andre with young Chiara you need to do is

introduce a new way of eating and introduce exercise into your daily life.”

“They also formulate the best exercise for your individual needs, then support you with phone calls and encouragement over the next weeks until you have managed to make the change successfully. In my case the fitness instructor tailor made a programme for me keeping in mind my back problems,” adds Andre.

“And as for food, we’ve always loved it but this lifestyle change does not deprive you of it: Stellina’s team taught us how to simply change what we eat, and when we eat it, and emphasised the importance of preparing food in advance to stop us going astray.”

The couple strongly believes that anyone can find the time to exercise if they really want to change their lifestyle. They suggest slotting in exercise early in the morning, or when the children are at sports or dancing or catechism lessons.

“Look at Norma. She’s a mother, she works, she runs a children’s choir, she sings, like me she’s involved in theatre and she also does a TV programme. But she still has made the time to exercise once a day,” Andre points out.

“The fun part is that shopping for clothes now is a pleasure.

Andre is a medium down from extra large and I’m a very comfortable size 10 from my previous 14,” explains Norma. “I even participated in the 21km walkathon recently without feeling sore or exhausted afterwards. It was a proud moment and a testament to the success of our joint commitment to make a lifestyle change.”

Call 2167 8456 or 7967 8456, e-mail stellina@lifestylechanges.eu or find Stellina’s Lifestyle Changes on Facebook for more details FIRST MARCH 2014

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Mr Alden (centre) with the MSA’s Board of Directors: Joe Spiteri Staines, Stephen Sant’Angelo, Roderick Camilleri, Margaret Farrugia, Jessica de Battista, Eman Grima, Francis Galea, Dorothy Meli

Harry Alden receiving the medal from President Abela. On the right is Ms Jessica de Battista, Acting President of the MSA President George Abela, who is Patron of the Malta Society of Arts, recently presented the MSA’s 2013 Gold Medal and Diploma to the artist Harry Alden in recognition of his long-standing contribution to the arts in Malta. The ceremony was held at the MSA’s premises, Palazzo de La Salle, Valletta.

events diary Mr Alden (centre) with past students: Eman Grima, Lino Borg, Roderick Camilleri, Margaret Farrugia, Jessica de Battista, Francis Galea, Alex Dalli

Mandy Nicholl, Daniela Baldacchino, Lauren Mizzi (Tony’s Pharmacy Representative)

A selection of snapshots from events, launches and parties held in the last few weeks. Send invitations and enquiries to cfitz@independent.com.mt

Patrick Nicholl (Director Pharma MT), Daniela Baldacchino (Brand Manager Catrice), Mark Degabriele, Maja Petrovic, Clint Pace, Danika Vella, Ayleen Kiekebosch

Jeanette Grech (Arkadia Representative), Daniela Baldacchino, Marita Grech

The launch of Catrice Cosmetics in Malta hosted by Pharma MTwas held last month at Level 22, Portomaso.

Chris Fenech, hotel general manager David Woodward, Ray Vella

David Woodward, Joe Zammit Tabona

Noel Aquilina, Barry Owen and Mdina GP organizer Ivan Bartolo enjoy the event

The Corinthia Palace Hotel and Spa in Attard kick-started the hotel’s sponsorship of this year’s Mdina Grand Prix (5 to 12 October) by welcoming many of the event’s regular participants for drinks last month.

Thomas Smith Group presented ¤13,000, raised during their Christmas Charity Swim in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund, to President George Abela last month.

The Swim was supported by the Sliema Local Council, the Civil Protection Department, the European Commission Representation in Malta, the Malta Red Cross, the Emergency Fire & Rescue Unit, St John’s Ambulance, Giorgio’s Coffee Shop, Vertex Vending Services Ltd and Streetcom.

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FIRST MARCH 2014

President George Abela with Thomas Smith representatives Joe Gerada, Anton Buttigieg, Denis Galea, Liana Cachia, Wilfred Pirotta and youngest participants Nina Galea and Julia Testa Bickle

The band Red Electrick flanked by hostesses Des Zahra & Caroline Schembri

The team from Magic Malta 917, the official radio station of the MMAs: Colin Fitz, Noel Camilleri, Carlo Borg Bonaci, Arthur Caruana, Ramon Francalanza

Kirk Galea of sponsors 202 Jewellery (centre) with Dez Zahra & Caroline Schembri The Malta Music Awards, part of the Malta Music Weekender that also included the Malta Eurovision Contest, was held at MFCC on Sunday 9 February. Photos

by Matthew Cutajar (iCam).

Organisers CarloBorg Bonaci (centre) and Noel Magri (right) with the band The Rifffs

The Weddings & Events Team of the Phoenicia organized the hotel’s annual Inspirations Weddings Fair in and around the hotel’s ballroom last month.

Justine Storace (Sales & Events Coordinator), Kurt Vassallo & Valentina Rossi ( hosts), Philip Lanzon (Banqueting Manager), Rob Bruno (Sales & Marketing Director), Rachel Bezzina (Weddings & Events Executive)

The Administrators of The Marigold Foundation with Mr John Cassar White (wearing green tie): Robert Xuereb, John Magro, Elvia George, Michelle Muscat (chairperson), Ivan Grech, Fr Hilary Tagliaferro The Marigold Foundation – BOV in the Community, was launched recently at the House of the Four Winds in Valletta. The launch was addressed by Mrs Michelle Muscat and by Mr John Cassar White, Chairman of Bank of Valletta. Chaired by the spouse of the Prime Minister, the foundation aims to positively empower existing NGOs and associations and to work with them to raise standards, support initiatives and strengthen their voices.

Fleur Balzan, Amder Bondin, Jonathan Cortis, Paul Giordimaina GasanMamo hosted a Red Carpet photobooth at the Malta Eurovision Song Contest held at MFCC on Saturday 8 February.

Celebrating Gucci’s bond with glamorous rock attitude is Guilty Stud – Limited Edition, from its iconic Gucci Guilty fragrance range. Guilty pour femme is a warm and striking Oriental floral with hedonism at its heart. Guilty pour homme is an aromatic fougére that provokes as it seduces. Both assert their presence with an opening spike of pink pepper, and close with a suggestive pulse of patchouli. For trade enquiries call VJ Salomone (Marketing) freephone 8007 2387

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Karl Lagerfeld has as chosen Alice Dellal el the face of the Chan r 2014 spring-summe eyewear campaign.

This is Alice Dellal’s with fouth collaboration st Chanel since she fir met Lagerfeld at a photo shoot in 2012.

Since then a real connection has n the developed betwee ung designer and the yoof musician. In front llal Lagerfeld’s lens, De n confirms her devotio to Chanel, proving ne, herself to be feminial, youthful and natur er unveiling yet anoth facet of herself.

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So...? Exclusive is a magnificent fragrance for the girl who commands all the finer things in life, working to instantly draw anyone into her charm. With its top notes of orange and heart notes of jasmine and rose it encapsulates the pure essence of a real woman. So...? is a trendy, affordable range available as EDTs and body sprays. Exclusively distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd. Tel 2144 6205

A new-generation anti-aging complex, best known as Matrixyl TM, fights face and eye aging and triggers the skin matrix, helping the physiological cell repairing process. Visible and immediate results, include a lifted and revitalized skin. The pure micro-proteins of Matrixyl boost effective renewal properties; the skin looks and feels extraordinary: healthier, smoother, more flawless. It confirms Transvital’s commitment to constantly improve and reinvent the Swiss cosmetic tradition. Exclusively distributed by Chemimart. Tel: 2149 2212

The Witch skincare range has been created with a pure, cooling extract of natural witch hazel. The products have been formulated to be light and oilfree to gently work with and balance your skin and leave it feeling refreshed and healthylooking. All of the products have been dermatologically tested and are suitable for all skin types, but are ideal if you have oily or combination skin.

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GlobalCapital Health Insurance Agency Limited, the exclusive agents of Bupa in Malta have launched a new website in line with Bupa’s international brand guidelines, changing the design to make it fresher and easier to navigate. It has been designed to be mobile friendly and integrates directly with social media channels, from which browsers can enjoy Facebook updates, games and competitions along with keeping updated on Bupa Malta’s latest news, views and offerings. www.bupa.com.mt

The Medik8 Prevent serum that helps comRange is a revolutionary Vitamin C ultra the skin. It’s been bat sun-induced and environmental fre stable antioxidant wn to trigger collagen e-radical damage to elasticity and improsho synthesis, increase the skin’s preventing skin photove the skin’s texture, brightening the com leading salons and ceraging, fine lines and hyperpigmentationplexion, whilst Culture Group on 214 tified Medik8 centres. For trade enqu . Available from iries contact Beauty us on MEDIK8MAL4 0424, 2744 0424 or info@beautysuppli TA esmalta.com. Find

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LIFESTYLE

a fire burning bright RICHARD EDWARDS is the charismatic frontman of Firelight, the band representing Malta at the Eurovision Song Contest in Copenhagen in May. was born in 1982 in what to me is the best place on Earth: Malta. I’m 31 and live in Rabat. I’m currently single, but who knows... perhaps I’ll meet that special woman in Denmark.

Music is in my blood as I come from a family of musicians. I have been playing music since I was a kid, but I’ve also worked at various other jobs, especially when I lived in the United Kingdom.

There I took part in The X Factor TV programme.

Tens of thousands of people had applied to take part but I was very proud that music

Photo: Fotoclassic

industry legend Simon Cowell gave me the thumbs up and I made it to the final 100.

Music is now my job and also my hobby, but I also like football. I’m an avid Manchester United supporter.

As for other hobbies, I tried fishing, but didn’t catch a thing, so I decided to stick to music. I also like movies: The Shawshank Redemption is one of my favourite films of all time.

Musically I like creating a fusion of pop, rock and folk. I like a diverse choice of music,

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from Johnny Cash to James Blunt. I would choose The Wall by Pink Floyd as one of my all time favourite albums, but above all I would say that my greatest musical influence over the years has been my Dad. I love mixing genres, and our Eurovision song Coming Home is a result of that. At the moment I am experimenting with an instrument called an Appalachian mountain dulcimer. It may not be popular in this part of the world but, trust me, it makes sweet music.

My band, Firelight, also includes my sister, Michelle Mifsud, who plays piano and percussion. My brother, Daniel Micallef, plays acoustic guitar. My other brother, Wayne William, is a backing vocalist. The other two members of Firelight are Tony Polidano and Leslie Decesare. Tony plays upright bass, electric bass, acoustic bass and percussion. Leslie plays the drums, percussion and harmonica.

The Firelight album will be released very soon, but in the past people may have heard some of the songs I released as a solo artist. I’ve entered the local charts with these songs in the past but now I’m looking forward to the future with Firelight as I’ve found a style of music that I can really identify with. I guess you could say that with this style of music I’m ‘coming home’.

The international music world is a very competitive one but performing to millions at Eurovision in Denmark is a big opportunity. Hopefully, we will find new audiences for our type of music. One thing I am certain of is that music is always going to play a big part in my life.

Some people have been asking me what image and style we’re going to go for on stage at Eurovision. Personally I always feel it’s best to be yourself. And that’s also my advice to youngsters starting out on their musical journey. Be yourself. Be creative. And never be afraid to experiment.

I have a motto: be nice to people wherever they’re from, because you never know when you might need them to give you 12 points at Eurovision!

Our Copenhagen experience will surely be a great adventure for us. We’re determined to enjoy the whole experience.

I have a tattoo of the Maltese Cross and I wear my love for Malta with pride. No doubt there will be tough competition but we will do our best to make Malta and the Maltese proud.