Sunday Circle (May 2018)

MAY 2018 – ISSUE NO. 280

WOMEN’S RIGHTS Lawyer Lara Dimitrijevic speaks out

SOS ALERT These dogs need your help

CAPITAL OF KUL: LONDON CALLING

ALL THE PRESIDENT’S ROOMS

LUKE AZZOPARDI’S MUSE The fashion show John Keats would have loved

CONTENTS COVER STORY 12

PHOTOGRAPHY

BAD ROMANCE Designer Luke Azzopardi’s shows are more performance art than your average fashion launch. On the Museum’s Ruins, his 2018 Couture Collection, went a step further combining medieval looks with a touch of the gothic, all inspired by the poetry of John Keats. Interview by Ramona Depares.

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ARTS 36

WOMEN’S ISSUES

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THE GLAM FACTOR Matthew B Spiteri, the creative mind behind some of this magazine’s most spectacular covers, shares the glitz and glamour of the life of a fashion photographer, together with some of his favourite shots. Words by Ramona Depares.

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GIVE THEM A CHANCE As the etchings and paintings of Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró grace the halls of the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta, Kristina Chetcuti sets on a mission to find out who are these two greatest artists in the story of art, especially since sometimes their art is, err, plain baffling.

T R AV E L 52

H E A LT H 42

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A MATTER OF RIGHTS As the founder of the Women’s Rights Foundation, Lara Dimitrijevic is used to getting flak due to her outspoken passion for women’s rights. Ramona Depares speaks to the human rights lawyer about the most pressing gender issues in Malta.

STYLE 24

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ALL THE PRESIDENT’S ROOMS Iggy Fenech discovers the recentlyunveiled State Rooms at San Anton Palace, in an exclusive interview with the man behind the refurbishment project, Keith Pillow.

THE GLAM SQUAD When it comes to matters of fashion, Baystreet’s got your back.

THIS PUBLICATION IS BEING DISTRIBUTED AS PART OF:

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DARK SIDE OF THE SUN Dr Lawrence Scerri, head of the Department of Dermatology at Sir Paul Boffa Hospital, debunks some myths about the sun and skin cancer.

A MATTER OF THE HEART Heart failure remains the leading cause of death in Malta, besides being a major drain on the national health system.

Yet, new drugs can improve prognosis substantially, leading to fewer hospital stays and patients who can function in society. Dr Robert G. Xuereb, chairman of the Department of Cardiology, explains more.

I LIKE YOUR COCONUTS Britishbased entrepreneur Lucy Bee is known for her line of all natural food products – but the story behind them all points back to coconut oil, an item she absolutely

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loves. Lucy visited Malta recently to share her expertise on the topic, and, here, explains why coconut oil makes a fantastic alternative to other oils on the market. Interview by Anabel Attard.

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY DENTISTRY Dr Jean Paul Demajo explains why more advanced techniques of dentistry often deliver a more aesthetically pleasing result.

CAPITAL OF KUL With apologies for the terrible pun, Ramona Depares does the foodie tour of London, with plenty of celebrity chef spotting and nary a fish ‘n’ chip joint in sight.

SPORT 67

CLASH OF THE TITANS It’s only a handful of days before it all goes down at the Malta Polo Club, with the final match of the playing season gathering together the top dogs from the polo community.

A N I M A L W E L FA R E 70

‘WE NEED YOUR HELP!’ In a month and a half’s time, the Association for Abandoned Animals’ old sanctuary in Marsa will be demolished with around 90 dogs risking ending up on the streets. Iggy Fenech chats to the Association’s director Rosalind Agius to find out why we should help.

REGULARS 04 06 08 77 80

A word from the editor C Body C Style Paparazzi C Living

Send your letters to: Ramona Depares, executive editor, Sunday Circle, Allied Newspapers Ltd, Mrieħel, or email: ramona.depares@timesofmalta.com. The executive editor reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and where space is limited. For advertising enquiries email: renee.mdecesare@timesofmalta.com or call: 9947 7193. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole, or in part, is strictly prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed in the Sunday Circle are not necessarily those of the editor-in-chief or publisher. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor-in-chief and publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome, but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor-in-chief is not responsible for material submitted for consideration.

A WORD FROM

the editor

PUBLISHER ALLIED NEWSPAPERS LTD. EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ramona Depares PUBLICATION SALES MANAGER Renée Micallef Decesare DESIGN Joseph Schembri COVER Amy Zahra Photography: Kris Micallef EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Anabel Attard, Kristina Chetcuti, Ramona Depares, Iggy Fenech

As I write this right before sending the magazine to print, the news headlines read like something crazy, and not in a good way.

This is the week when a hard-working police officer was run over in the course of duty, the alleged perpetrator speeding off even as PC Simon Schembri lay fighting for his life in the middle of the road. In court facing charges is a 17-year-old.

It is also the week when one of the people allegedly responsible for the bomb hoax aboard the Gozo Ferry – the one that sent pretty much the entire island in tilt – was also arraigned. Although not as shocking a story as the previous one, it could also have had highly serious consequences.

Finally, also in court facing charges of a very serious nature is a 23-year-old man.

Accusations include beating up and raping his 15-year-old ex-girlfriend, for “pestering his new girlfriend”.

Understandably, all three cases created a level of public uproar. Comments on social media, for once, were pretty united – bar for a very few, very unsavoury cases – in calls for those who are found guilty to be given their just desserts.

And yet, underlying these heartfelt calls for action, there is a very definite strong sense of disillusion. Nearly all comments were followed by statements along the lines of:

“they’ll be walking free in a few weeks anyway.”

This attitude is one that is based on reality and on past experience. Unfortunately, the law tends to raise its hackles in the weirdest of directions while taking a very lenient attitude with respect to those whose actions have shocked an entire country.

Just to give an example, when Daniel Holmes grew five cannabis plants and some seedlings on his roof, he got slapped with a 10-year jail sentence, even though most of us couldn’t care less what Mr Holmes grew on his roof, quite frankly.

But, when disgraced priest Jesmond Gauci was found guilty of molesting a child, the punishment he received was...drumroll please... a suspended sentence of one year, even though his actions shocked and angered an entire nation.

Of course, justice should not be based on the emotions of the majority, because we’d be in a very fine pickle. But if the law needs to be changed, then so be it. What are we waiting for?

It is difficult not to get the feeling that the message currently being given is that some forms of crime do, indeed, pay. Let us hope we are all wrong.

In the meantime, I hope you enjoy this edition of the magazine.

BODY 1. TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN

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Dermalogica’s latest Sound Sleep Cocoon offers a revitalising treatment gel-cream, that transforms skin overnight by optimising nighttime skin recovery. Tamarind Seed Extract creates a nourishing cocoon of comfort for softer, more hydrated skin while encapsulated, motion-activated French Lavender Essential Oil (with Sandalwood and Patchouli) work all night to promote deep, restful sleep for healthierlooking skin by morning. Other key ingredients include Persian Silk Tree Extract which reduces signs of skin fatigue and restores vitality while Wu-Zhu-Yu Extract provides visibly radiant skin by the morning.

Priced at €75, it is available at all leading Dermalogica stockists. Call 2142 4401 / info@biocaremalta.com

2. SEDUCTIVELY SOPHISTICATED

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Experience Carven L’Eau Intense Eau de Toilette, a fragrance that trembles with intensity. The fresh Eau de Toilette is for a man of contrasts. Sophisticated yet seductive, L’Eau de Intense is an olfactory interpretation of a crisp white shirt, its stylish intensity a statement waiting to be made. Masculine at every phase, Carven L’Eau Intense aftershave has a confident charm that transpires onto every man that wears it. The woody aromatic fragrance opens with a bright mint note, which merges with the bitterness of grapefruit and lemon, leading to a final wave of masculinity. Distributed by Chemimart. Tel. 2149 2213.

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3. STRONG NAILS The tip of the nail is the most fragile, most unprotected part and breaks easily. Mavala Scientifique K+ hardens the nail plate thanks to a scientific active ingredient that improves the cohesion of keratin fibres thus allowing the three principal nail layers to bond together.

Apply Mavala Scientifique K+ to clean nails from the centre to the tip only. Avoid touching cuticles and skin around nails, in order not to harden them as well. Leave to penetrate for one minute, by holding hands downwards so that the product does not run onto the cuticles.

Its application can be followed by your usual manicure (base coat, nail polish, top coat). Use two to three times a week until nails have obtained the desired hardness. Exclusively distributed by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel. 2142 4079/80.

4. IRRESISTIBLE SPARKLE

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Live Irrésistible, Givenchy’s most joyful fragrance, boldly sings the praises of joy in its purest form. Its latest variation, Blossom Crush, is a sparkling and irresistibly charming Eau de Toilette that advocates spontaneity as an asset, revealing an abundance of fresh, delicate petals of roses and peony with a twist of cocoa bean, the unexpected ingredient which tinges the fragrance with a bittersweet note for an immediate crush. With Live Irrésistible Blossom Crush, delicateness turns into impertinence, and the crush becomes love at first sight.

Givenchy is exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel. 2142 4079.

5. INNER BEAUTY Future Solution LX Total Radiance Foundation is a truly luxurious agedefying foundation that brings out a radiant aura. Infused with skincare ingredients, to retexturise and brighten the skin, maintain a resilient look and deliver a seamless, flawless finish that expands your possibilities for beautiful skin. Formulated with Shiseido’s Skingenecell-Enmei to energise the vitalising forces that renew beautiful skin from its source, the foundation contains 4MSK, a brightening ingredient developed by Shiseido. Aura Radiance Technology creates an exquisite look of inner radiance and brightness, while minimising the appearance of aging signs. The beautiful finish lasts throughout the day with Time Match Powder. Exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel. 2142 4079.

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STYLE TIMELESS, ELEGANT AND UNDERSTATED This 36mm Jacqueline, priced at €139, features a genuine white marble dial with a pastel pink bezel, three-hand movements and a mineral gray leather strap. Classic design meets modern proportions. An artful construction inspired by the girl with a certain charm, our signature Jacqueline puts a sophisticated spin on a classic. The high-quality leather is well-known for its softness and ability to look good over time.

The Fossil brand is available from Sunlab at Arkadia Gozo, Baystreet, Landmark Qormi, The Point, Plaza & Valletta or from VIP Sliema & Valletta. www.sunlab.com.mt

THE PERFECT PAIR Good shoes take you good places and Xti, one of Spain’s leading footwear brands can do just this. Providing you with shoes and bags ranging from casual to smart, the collection includes a wide selection for women, men and kids in a great range of styles and colours. Taking you from the office to the club, from the restaurant to the beach club, the options are limitless. Exclusively available from Darmanin Footwear and Gallarija Darmanin. Tel. 2142 1383.

SPRING AT BAY STREET As May comes to an end, Bay Street is ready to make the most out of the final weeks of Spring. June brings us florals, pastels, as well as the much-awaited World Cup. Be sure to get your spring stand out item this season from Bay Street and don’t forget to pick up your dad’s present for Father’s Day! Don’t worry if you’re clueless on what to buy – just keep an eye out for our Father’s Day Gift Guide on Facebook. Bay Street is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm, making shopping all that more convenient. Visit the Facebook page for more information!

LIKE A BOSS Crafted in pure virgin wool, this suit by Boss is cut to a slim silhouette for timeless appeal with modern quality.

Stretch tailoring allows ease of movement, to fit the modern lifestyle. For business, leisure or downright pleasure bring out your inner boss this season. Boss Store St Julian’s, Tel. 2202 1001.

SUMMER MUST-HAVE

LUXURY CARE The Beauty Club is the first beauty counter concept in Malta and your new destination for skincare, cosmetics and fragrances. An extension of the fragrance aisles and MAC Cosmetics area, The Beauty Club offers a host of luxury brands such as Tom Ford, Estee Lauder, Clarins, Clinique and Shiseido. In keeping with the Debenhams ethos of offering quality at affordable prices, customers will receive sterling advice on new products that they can fit into their beauty regimes and complementary product samples for free. Visit The Beauty Club at Debenhams at The Point Shopping Mall, Tigne, today and be part of the ultimate beauty experience.

Tel. 2247 2082. Facebook.com/TheBeautyClubMalta

8 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

Abloom in a vibrant palm and tile print, our sleeveless shift dress is a must-have for summer style.

Embellished with silver heat seal studs across the neckline, this lightweight summer dress simply pulls on and fastens with a keyhole button at the nape of the neck.

Priced at €56.50.

Available from M&Co, Merchants Street, Valletta.

Spoil Dad this Father’s Day at Vascas

COVER STORY

DESIGNER LUKE AZZOPARDI’S SHOWS ARE MORE PERFORMANCE ART THAN YOUR AVERAGE FASHION LAUNCH. ON THE MUSEUM’S RUINS, HIS 2018 COUTURE COLLECTION WENT A STEP FURTHER, COMBINING MEDIAEVAL LOOKS WITH A TOUCH OF THE GOTHIC, ALL INSPIRED BY THE POETRY OF JOHN KEATS. INTERVIEW

BY RAMONA DEPARES.

Bad romance

Romance, beauty and art. Three words that nowadays, sadly, will not be often associated with the fashion industry.

Unless you are lucky enough to get a viewing of designer

Now, finally, Azzopardi has unveiled his 2018 couture collection, On the Museum’s Ruins, a whimsical, if dark, journey into a lover’s psyche. The collection includes 28 highly ornate couture

Luke Azzopardi’s works, that is. In that case, the three words are

looks, most of which incorporate artisanal hand-finishing techniques

pretty much the embodiment of every piece he creates, maybe

that required very painstaking handiwork.

because he himself is the embodiment of those very ideas.

Azzopardi’s is one of the more respected names on the local

“This is what makes couture special, showing off technical skill for the pure sake of it. Maybe this is a symptom of the living

fashion circuit. His no-compromise attitude to fashion design –

‘baroqueness’ of the country I was brought up in. There is that

find what you love and bring it to life – finds its roots in his

sense of ‘look at what I can do and how dramatic I make it look’

academic background in fine art and has resulted in a number of

everywhere,” Luke says.

gorgeous collections, each drawing from the sphere of the arts for

Some of the outfits showcased are nothing if not larger-than-

inspiration, each collection further blurring the lines between ‘art’

life, involving metres of Camilleri Paris Mode fabric, some from the

and ‘design’.

label’s archives of rare and beautiful pieces.

12 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

COVER STORY

Photography Kris Micallef Make Up Gabrielle Zammit Grungo Hair Hair & Co Studios Models Amy Zahra and Gabriella Mifsud at Supernova Models Shot on location at the Grand Salon of the National Museum of Archaeology

“It was 10 years ago that I walked into their Valletta store,

“Ultimately, I view the collection as an investigation of beauty,

which has since closed. I guess that is where my love affair with the

within the studio’s method of transposition between established

fabrics started. I remember meeting Victor Camilleri for the first

literatures and contemporary fashions. Each piece revisits the

time there, and I also remember the piece of thick guippure I

sentiment of longing, where to long for something is reason enough

bought. Now, I have practically become one of the pieces of

to live,” Luke says. “The project is also a personal catharsis for me,

furniture at their Rabat shop.”

with an eroticised narrative.”

The result is gothic romance of the highest order, translated

The venue that was chosen to show off the collection to the world

into opulent fabrics and flowing gowns set against the

for the first time is just as significant – the Grand Salon at the Museum

background of a hypnotic narrative. Because, you guessed it, once

of Archaeology, in Valletta. In fact, Luke confides that the outfits

again it is the arts that have inspired the mood of the collection,

themselves in a sense are a reworking of the Early Medieval style wall

more specifically John Keats’s celebrated poem Isabella and the

painting and decoration of the location, which is currently undergoing

Pot of Basil, a work that focuses on the tormented and the

conservation and restoration, making the very concept of the show even

nostalgic.

more poignant and the chosen name even more meaningful.

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

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COVER STORY

“It is also an exploration of the state of ‘inbetweenness’ that this painting currently finds itself in. In a sense, it is a manifestation of the liminal moment between states of preservation.”

Reflecting this, Luke tells me that this collection was presented not as one of garments, but of artefacts undergoing ‘maintenance’ – during the show itself, art restorers continue working on the painting even while the models sashay down the ‘catwalk’. In this way, the designer wanted to present a commentary about the actual creation of the outfits, their journey and process – a departure from the end result typically favoured within the fashion industry, which often disregards all processes.

“Bearing all this in mind, the Museum of Archaeology was the perfect venue. The moment of incompleteness in conservation is viewed as a moment of life in the otherwise frozen-like state museum objects find themselves in. It was a great opportunity to experiment with these concepts of ‘newness’ in a venue overridden with historical baggage. Of course, working with the support of professionals at Heritage Malta and the Museum of Archaeology made all the difference. ” I turn the conversation back to the idea of powerful gothic romance that also gave birth to the collection. How does Luke manage to bring this narrative to the contemporary?

“Many remark about how I manage to ‘make fashion inspired by costumes’. In reality it’s the other way round.

I’m presenting costumery elevated to fashion. In doing so, I deconstruct things, reassemble them and rework them.”

He adds how, a lot of the looks presented, featured in some way or another the late Victorian corset, often brought to the outside and used as a sort of architectural cage, or boning. It brings images of gothic revivalism to mind but, the designer notes that it’s the ‘reworking’ of it that makes it relevant. “Perhaps this is why I felt I must work with other artists and art practitioners for this one.

People like artist Gabriel Buttigieg, who intervened on two looks using paint; and Bloc Collective, who developed many of the tulles pieces that I used through complex steaming and cooking techniques, permanently altering the composition structures of the fabrics.”

Laser-printing, developed from the wall-painting itself, was also one of the methods of transposition and revisitation that were developed for this collection.

“Together with designer Philip Sultana, I worked on this to try bring back that same element that made the studio’s work so memorable five years ago, with the first collection – highly ornate printing. These collaborations,

14 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

COVER STORY

and the rest of the project, were only possible thanks to the Malta Arts Council, who supported this project through the Malta Arts Fund – Project Support Grant.”

Working with such a complex and sensitive venue as the Grand Salon was, naturally, not without its challenges. Luke brought on board project manager Becky Micallef and set designer Andrew Borg Wirth – together, the team worked for days on end. Yet, somehow, last minute niggles always seemed to crop up.

“We had specific time slots we needed to adhere to, both with the venue and with respect to transportation in and out of Valletta.”

The cherry on the cake was having the show coincide with the Valletta F.C.’s celebrations – the football team had just won the league and was holding the infamous ‘Funeral’ on that same night, hosting thousands of fans for a night of partying.

“Hey, it would not be a successful Luke Azzopardi show if guests in evening gowns didn’t have to push

moment I understood that my love and respect for fabrics was

their way through a crowd of drunk football fans in order to get into

visible; during my time studying at Central Saint Martins in London,

the venue. Makes it a bit more memorable.”

and working closely with Victor at CamilleriParisMode, I learned

Sporting such memories myself, I have to agree.

how to listen to what fabrics have to say. And, after getting a

Remembering the exquisite detail in some of the fabrics used by

glimpse into that world, I’m unfortunately a bit too accustomed to

Luke, I turn the conversation back to the topic, wanting to know

luxury now,” Luke says half-ruefully.

more about the fabrics.

“I chose the fabrics I needed to be working with thematically, and I let them dictate what to become. After the show ended,

He mentions one favourite from the collection, an embroidered tulle ballgown that Anna Grech (ModelsM) wore.

“The gown that Jacqui Losco (Supernova Models) wore was

soprano Miriam Gauci, a goddess in her own right, came out

also particularly note worthy. Everyone called it the ‘half-half dress’

exclaiming “i tessuti!”, or something along those lines. It was at that

which is an adequate name seeing that between us we dubbed it the ‘Frankenstein Gown’. I guess it felt a lot like different gowns stitched together to form a new life, much like Dr Frankenstein’s monster. And a little nod to the coolest proto-feminist of all time, Mary Shelley, never hurt anyone,” the designer tells me.

I ask him whether he is a particular person in mind when you create your looks? Who is the Luke Azzopardi woman, or man?

“I design for people, so I’m more often than not inspired by them. I created all my looks with the models in mind. I knew which ones Amy Zahra (Supernova Models) had to wear, for example. It wasn’t up for discussion – she had to walk in them. I do want to see one of the looks on Florence Welch though. So Flo, if you’re reading this, just know that I know how to make your closet that little bit more ceremoniously medieval.”

And on that cheeky note, we end the interview and I make my way back home, to dream some more about the luscious fabrics and gowns I have just seen, glad that some people are making the world a more beautiful place. www.lukeazzopardi.com

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CIVIL LIBERTIES

A matter of rights AS THE FOUNDER OF THE WOMEN’S RIGHTS FOUNDATION, LARA DIMITRIJEVIC IS USED TO GETTING FLAK DUE TO HER OUTSPOKEN PASSION. RAMONA DEPARES SPEAKS TO THE HUMAN RIGHTS LAWYER ABOUT THE MOST PRESSING GENDER ISSUES IN MALTA. Some two months ago, the Women’s Rights Foundation (WRF) launched a position paper on abortion, kicking the doors wide open for a public discussion about the divisive topic – a hitherto unprecedented state of affairs, in a country where even mention of the word itself was considered taboo.

The four points have now been discussed and rediscussed by pretty much everyone in Malta and Gozo. The woman behind the paper? Lara Dimitrijevic, human rights lawyer and WRF director, and long-term and vociferous champion of women’s rights.

Because abortion and reproductive rights, she passionately believes, are indeed a question of human rights – the right to bear children, or to not bear them. But, although the WRF as an entity has been in existence for about five years, Lara’s work in the field started much before that, spurred on by her choice of specialisation in the legal profession.

“In truth I always felt that my mindset was very different to that of most people in Malta. It was one of the reasons that made me want to leave the island.

But then, I met Alex – now my husband. He had already moved country once. He was done with moving, and it was understandable. I decided to stay and, despite not fitting in, embracing the challenge,” she tells me with a smile.

It is a polite, soft-spoken woman that sits in front of me for the interview.

Certainly, not the face of a murderer, as the voices spearheading the pro-life lobby would have us believe. Good humour shines through in her demeanour. Although, given the continuous insults publicly thrown in her direction – many of them obscene – and the (ironic, if only they would realise) death threats would be enough to make anyone lose it. I ask the obvious question: given such vociferous resistance, does she every get discouraged, tempted to throw it all off?

“No. When I decided to stay in Malta, I also decided to do everything in my power to challenge the status quo. This is why I can’t let myself be discouraged.

And also, I do see a form of progress, no matter how minimal.”

How so?

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CIVIL LIBERTIES

PHOTOS: JONATHAN ‘ZIGLI’ BORG

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

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CIVIL LIBERTIES

Lara speaks during a Women's Rights Foundation press conference earlier this year.

“Well, people are actually talking about abortion. There is a discussion, when before there wasn’t even that. It’s a pretty historical moment, from that point of view. People are expressing an

like sheep, moving from one popular thing to the next, and this realisation upset me no end.”

Spurred on by a strong sense of justice, Lara completed the

opinion. Whether it’s an informed opinion, is a different story. The

law course, in the optimistic belief that at the law courts, at least,

important thing is that the matter is being discussed,” she tells me.

she could serve justice.

Pressed about this not-inconsiderable matter of an ‘informed opinion’, Lara sighs.

“We do lack critical thinking. You can see it everywhere, from

“Of course, it turned out to be the opposite. I was already active in a number of women’s rights NGOs by then and the situation at the law courts only further dismayed me. The gender

the way people debate a point to the way University students

imbalance was huge, with women being grossly disadvantaged.

interact. I remember always being an activist, leading protests for

And I could also see that most existing NGOs were not really doing

various causes ever since my student days. Most of us took an

enough,” the lawyer reminisces.

interest. We thought about what was happening around us, we

It was the last straw in a series of such annoyances – and

analysed it, and we protested if need be. Today… I’m not so sure

thus, the Women’s Rights Foundation was born in 2013.

that this type of critical thinking still exists,” she tells me.

Because, the lawyer adds, a lack of power over their own

A state of affairs that was made even more obvious to her when she re-joined University as a mature student. Everywhere she looked, apathy reigned.

“I saw a huge presence of everything that I had wanted to run away from. The majority were extremely materialistic. Cars, possessions, this was all that mattered.”

This was at the time that cars belonging to the Jesuit

reproductive rights is only one aspect of the everyday problems women face.

“There’s violence, pay gap, sex education, unequal opportunities, juggling motherhood and career…”

The latter cause is especially close to her heart, given that she has experienced this exact problem herself.

“At one point, I was struggling to run my own business while

community were vandalised, back in 2006, shortly after the priests

fulfilling all those duties that are expected of me as a mother of

had spoken out against racism. The reactions on campus, Lara

three. I just couldn’t cope. The family had to take a decision. My

remembers, were far from exemplary.

husband and I weighed all pros and cons and finally we decided

“No-one cared. They couldn’t see why it was important to support these people, to stand up and be counted. They were all

22 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

that he should be the main child carer, while I focused on work and business.”

How did that work out? Very well, it turns out.

“At first I struggled, and still kept trying to do everything.

The idea is so ingrained in me… Then Alex kept reminding me that I didn’t need to and we gradually got into a new routine.

Nowadays, the children are used to it, as it’s what they know. They don’t think there’s anything odd about it.

“Malta fares very badly when it comes to women and time, as in the time that women have for themselves. The responsibilities have not yet shifted to sharing. Ever since my husband took over that side of things, the difference in our quality time together as a family has been incredible,” she says.

So what is the cause of the problem? Is this an infrastructure, government issue? Or does it stem deeper? Lara believes that it’s not necessarily a problem with the legal framework.

“We do have a number of facilities in place to help mothers manage work and parental duties – this is not to say that it’s the ideal situation. Do we really want to ‘institutionalise’ our kids within a pre-school setting, for want of a better verb, so early on in life? I think we might see repercussions to this later on. Still, I do think that the problem is a cultural one, based on society’s expectations, more than anything else.”

Will things ever change? Lara is hopeful that, slowly, they will.

“My work mostly involves trying to bring about a shift in thinking, a change in the way we approach things. As a country, we have gone through great changes – some of them too fast, maybe, but here we are. We did it. The same can be extended to other issues,” she tells me.

The discourse, she adds, is currently very much focused on the new IVF legislation, as is to be expected.

“After that is done and dusted, the abortion issue needs to be picked up again. It is important for Maltese women; the WRF’s position paper was also heavily inspired by the recent rise in STDs in our country, especially among adolescents. Our teenage pregnancy rate is also through the roof. All this is very alarming, especially as mother to a teenage daughter. The stories she tells me about things she hears at Junior College, how casually other students confide that they ‘picked up an STD’. Clearly, something is very wrong.”

How does abortion fit in all this? The issue, Lara believes, cannot be approached in a vacuum. On the contrary, abortion rights are the very last link in a long chain that includes sex education and access to contraception.

“Sex education needs to be objective and science-based. We can’t keep on feeding our children ineffective lies, like abstention.

We have seen that it doesn’t work. Harping on that is irresponsible.”

Lara also believes in the value of a sex education that starts off at a very young age. She mentions Norway as an example, where school-children are given the facts at a very young age – including, famously, through a state-funded TV series – and where teenagers become sexually active at a much later age than Malta.

“The facts speak for themselves. We need to act now, or we are guilty of doing a disservice to the younger generations of women,” Lara concludes.

STYLE

All the President’s rooms PRESIDENT MARIE-LOUISE COLEIRO PRECA TODAY GETS READY TO WELCOME SCORES OF MALTESE EAGER TO CATCH AN EXCLUSIVE GLIMPSE OF SAN ANTON PALACE'S NEWLY-REDECORATED ROOMS. IGGY FENECH INTERVIEWS KEITH PILLOW, THE MAN BEHIND THE DESIGN PROJECT.

24 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

STYLE

PHOTOS OF INTERIORS: MATTHEW MIRABELLI

It’s not every day one gets a private tour at San Anton Palace, the residence of all the Presidents of the Republic since 1974. But, then again, it’s not every day that a whole wing within this 17th century palace laden with history gets a complete overhaul.

Walking up the grand staircase that leads from the entrance in the internal courtyard to the piano nobile, it’s easy to forget just how many stories have been played out here. After all, since Knight Fra Antoine De Paul, the Palace has served as a summer residence for the Grand Masters of the Knights of St John, as the headquarters of the rebel National Assembly when Napoleon annexed Malta, and as the residence of the Governors of Malta under British rule.

Today, the Palace is also one of our national façades, welcoming everyone from Her Majesty (HM) Queen Elizabeth II to dignitaries, Prime Ministers, and religious leaders. Yet, as is often the case with such old and grand buildings, some gilded rooms lead to dilapidated ones.

When President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca took over, however, one of the things she wanted to do was give back seven rooms that had been systematically repurposed, starting from the Music Room.

“When Her Excellency’s team first got in touch, the idea was to refurbish the Music Room

Stefania Mercieca, Keith Pillow and Lisa Carson.

PHOTO BY ELSA ALLEN.

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

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STYLE

for the Queen’s visit for CHOGM,” Keith Pillow, director of Daaa Haus and man in charge of redecorating the rooms, tells me.

“There were only five months before deadline, however and, while the job was big it was also a delicate one. The biggest chunk of the time was spent researching and sourcing the right pieces, materials, fabrics and paints rather than doing the actual alterations.”

With just two months to carry out actual work on the room, architects Joe Bondin from Bondin & Associates and William Soler from DeMicoli & Associates, and the team from Daaa Hous (made up of Keith, Lisa Carson and Stefania Merċieca) had little time to rest on their laurels. But the Music Room was completed and Keith proudly shows me a picture of President Coleiro Preca in it.

“The first time I showed off the red paint I thought the Music Room should be painted in, there was a bit of a shock,” Keith recounts. “But we were adamant that we needed a colour that was both bold and

We checked dinner invitations from the 1870s onwards to pinpoint grand houses and old families that may have information about the rooms

calming, and that particular shade of warm red would contrast perfectly with the turquoise curtains we had in mind. She loved the idea in the end, and she has mentioned before that it is one of her favourite rooms in the Palace, which is quite the honour!”

So pleased was the President with the work, that she asked the team to help refurbish the wing designed by Architect Sir G Whitmore and built during British rule.

What they found, however, shocked them: what were once Stately Rooms had been stripped of their grandeur and turned into offices for the Palace’s personnel.

“They were exactly like you’d imagine 1980s Governmental offices to be,” Keith sighs. “There was ducting everywhere, the floor had been stripped, the walls bare and yellowed. There was literally nothing worth salvaging as anything historically important had already been removed or destroyed.”

Excited, but grounded by the responsibility of the project ahead, Keith and his partners started by poring over the records of San Anton. Nothing turned up in their months-long search as, for a long period of time, no information was kept

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STYLE

about the Palace. There weren’t even plans or surveys of the wing, with only some documents specifying the use of the rooms turning up as they dug deeper and deeper into the archives.

“You need references for a job like this. You need records, something to help you bring the place back to its former glory. So we took another approach. We checked dinner invitations from the 1870s onwards to pinpoint grand houses and old families that may have information about the rooms within their archive,” Keith tells me.

Although they managed to trace some of these families and homes, which led to places like the home of Marquis Nicholas de Piro, Casa Rocca Picola in Valletta, the information was sparing and not detailed. Even so, the project had to begin and they decided to use logic, rather than historical notes, to pick which room would have had which purpose.

Today, the wing is once again comprised of a library (now named Librerija Anton Buttiġieġ), a cigar room (Sala Ugo Mifsud Bonniċi), a drawing room (Sala Pawlu Xuereb), a suite (Suite talMistednin Statali Mikiel Anton Vassalli), a vaulted conference room (Sala Antoine de Paule) and a grand salon (Sala Ċensu Tabone). Their new names join those of the Drawing Room, the Dining Room, the

What were once Stately Rooms had been stripped of their grandeur and turned into offices for the Palace’s personnel

Grandmaster’s Hall and the Music Room, which had already been renamed to Sala Guido de Marco, Sala Edward Fenech Adami, Sala George Abela and Sala Agatha Barbara respectively.

“We’d like to assume that the rooms we chose for each purpose now is what they were built for originally. However, with so little information, we cannot possibly be sure,” Keith says. “But we are more confident about the actual decorations and techniques used to refurbish these rooms as these are, indeed, as close to those of the late 19th century as possible.”

In fact, from the fabrics sourced from companies all over the world who owned the patent to certain designs, to the wood cladding imported from Venice (the latter of which was the subject of a public tender), no detail has been left to chance.

Each room now has its own very distinct use and character, but bar the Music Room, it is Sala Ċensu Tabone that truly captures the old spirit of San Anton and the modern aesthetic of Malta. Upon entering, in fact, your gaze is directed to the ceiling, where a fresco of the sky is framed by Maltese lace motifs and depictions of the moth (‘baħrija’) which all point towards a monumental and dramatic antique Murano glass chandelier.

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Smart Pack is a suitable anti-aging treatment for mature and aging skin

At eye level, the room offers a pastel scene of the Maltese countryside with indigenous flora and fauna painted on fabric towering over you. Created by Dutch artist Peter Korver, who spent a month researching and a month prepping before actually creating them in the Netherlands, the scenes bring the famous San Anton Gardens into the heart of San Anton Palace.

“The furniture and the fireplaces here are also as authentic as possible to the time and style these were built,” adds Keith.

“They were sourced from various places, including auctions and antique boutiques in the UK and France, and the store at Verdala Palace, which was full of old, unused furniture.”

Strolling through these new State Rooms, which were inaugurated by the President just a few weeks ago, makes you feel like you’ve gone back in time – a feat in itself for something that is so modern. Yet, from the names given to them to the details in the decoration, it is clear that they are our generation’s contribution to the Palace.

The services given to the President of the Republic for San Anton Palace by the local parties mentioned above were offered pro bono.

The new State Rooms will be open to the public for the first time today during Festa Palazz.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

The glam factor MATTHEW B SPITERI, THE CREATIVE MIND BEHIND SOME OF THIS MAGAZINE’S MOST SPECTACULAR COVERS, SHARES THE GLITZ AND GLAMOUR OF THE LIFE OF A FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER, TOGETHER WITH SOME OF HIS FAVOURITE SHOTS. INTERVIEW BY RAMONA DEPARES.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

I have always looked at the world through a photographic lens. But it was relatively recently that I decided to take this passion and turn it into a fulltime endeavour. When my first son was born, I decided that I wanted to document his birth and childhood properly, so I bought myself my first SLR camera. It was nothing special, but it opened the floodgates for me. Suddenly I found that I wanted to document everything. It was no longer about taking photos of my newborn son. It was about taking photos of everything I encountered. It was love at first sight.

My son took a back seat as the protagonist as I started exploring options to take what, up till now had been a hobby, further. I enrolled in a photography course with Kevin Casha and Kevin encouraged me to take it more seriously. He believed that there was potential for something good come out of it.

Fast-forward to much new equipment and many expenses

Matthew B Spiteri

later, and in two and a half years photography has become my profession and my passion. During this time, I have never stopped trying to learn and improve myself. I have about four trusted friends

I also enjoy shooting weddings because it’s an extension of

whom I continuously ask for feedback and advice; it’s all about

my love for people. I really love being part of the whole experience,

constantly getting out of that comfort zone.

being instrumental on someone’s most important day. I follow the

Much like everyone, I started out shooting mostly landscapes.

same process with couples as I do with models, meeting up with

Fashion came later. Discovering what I love best came naturally. I

them beforehand to see if we click. It’s important to be on the same

had always had an interest in style, beauty, fashion... ever since my

wavelength as someone.

days DJing with Exit. My biggest thing is that I love people. I love

Whether it’s a wedding or a fashion shoot, the idea is to make

chatting, socialising, getting to know someone’s story. I always meet

my protagonists relax. My fashion shoots always include music,

up with a model before we shoot. I want to know what makes her

chatting... and I tend to prefer to shoot weddings documentary style.

or him tick. Have a good chat, and get their story out in photos.

No need for the couple to pose, if that’s not something they’re into.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

I always meet up with a model before we shoot. I want to know what makes her or him tick

34 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

PHOTOGRAPHY

The fashion industry in Malta is a relatively small one, but it’s a thriving one. Young people are increasingly become more and more fashion oriented.

Social media has helped the whole thing explode. Of course, there’s room for improvement, there always is.

But then again we do come up with super cool stuff while working within tight parameters.

Location is one of the issues that always crops up.

It is not easy to continue coming up with fresh places.

Then, of course, there’s the part where you have to get the model to recreated the image you have in your head. Luckily, we have some amazing professional people, so getting a good team together is not difficult.

I’ve had many highlights these part two and a half years.

Shooting in Kent, the UK, was one of them. And, of course, I won Fashion Photographer of the year at last year’s Malta Fashion Awards.

That was one hell of an experience, and also meant that I got to be the official photographer for this year’s Malta Fashion Week campaign commercial. We launched the campaign a few weeks ago, the result of months of brainstorming, planning and having fun. It helps when you’re an amazing team, of course. Adrian Mizzi, the founder of the Awards, was the artistic director behind it all and the end result, with model Clare Ciantar as the face of this year’s awards, Chris Galea for the hair and Elaine Galea for the make-up, is stunning.

When you see a concept coming to life, a vision coming together... that’s what it is all about! https://www.facebook.com/matthewbspiteriphotographer

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ARTS

Give them a CHANCE AS THE ETCHINGS AND PAINTINGS OF PABLO PICASSO AND JOAN MIRÓ GRACE THE HALLS OF THE GRANDMASTER’S PALACE IN VALLETTA, KRISTINA CHETCUTI SETS ON A MISSION TO FIND OUT WHO ARE THESE TWO GREATEST ARTISTS IN THE STORY OF ART, ESPECIALLY SINCE SHE SOMETIMES FINDS THEIR ART PLAIN BAFFLING.

Picasso, the man who drew noses in place of ears We all know Picasso. he’s the artist chap who draws noses in the place of mouths and mouths instead of ears, and his paintings fetch a lot of money, even though whenever we chance to look at one, we often go, “err, okay, whassdat?” and then we proceed to think these two thoughts in succession: humph, what’s the big deal, it looks like an odd scribble, and, i feel really stupid that i don’t get his genius when everybody around me does Fear not. the majority are not Picasso experts, and most people just nod, stretch their eyebrows into knowledgeable V-

Kristina Chetcuti with Sarah Chircop and Giulia Privitelli. Photo: Chris sant Fournier

shapes and act like they get him, when in fact they are, deep down also thinking a) and b). i share my artistic apprehension with sarah Chircop, 24, from

But before we look at any of the etchings we need to

the Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, who is my Picasso mentor for the

understand the context of Picasso’s life at the time. he was married

day and she immediately reassures me: “it’s okay to find Picasso’s

to olga, a ukrainian ballerina. however since the birth of their son

paintings baffling, it’s part of the journey of discovering an artist”.

Paulo in 1921, their marriage had been rather patchy. Picasso, as you

seeing as he has created over 20,000 pieces, all different styles in different periods, in different complex contexts, the best

might have heard, was a bit of a cad. in 1927, at the age of 45, while walking the streets of Paris, he

thing to get to know Pablo Picasso is to zone in. so for the purpose

saw a young woman with a very unusual face – she did not have a

of this article we’re zoning on 100 etchings he produced in seven

hollow between her forehead and her nose, and so her profile was a

years, between 1930 and 1937 – simply because they are here in

straight line, very Grecian. she was shopping at the Galeries

Malta and after reading this piece you can nip at the Grandmaster’s

Lafayette when Picasso spotted her and stopped her. “You have an

Palace and have a look at them.

interesting face, can i paint your portrait?” he presumably asked her.

the etchings on display are called the Vollard suite etchings

Marie-thérèse Walter was young, blonde, and only 17-years

because Picasso was commissioned to do them by ambroise

old. she had no idea who this man in front of her was, and his name

Vollard, a French art dealer and an avid art collector. etchings are

did not ring a bell. “and maybe this was also what attracted him to

not paintings, so by way of heads up, this is a colourless Picasso. he

her,” sarah says.

incised the images into the surface of metal plates by burning lines

the spark turned into a flame and Marie-thérèse quickly

into the plates with acid. “it is a kind of art which is expressed using

become Picasso’s model and muse. But for a while his wife was still

the fewest of lines and Picasso loved this form of printmaking

in the picture and in the early 1930s he lived in a contradiction of

because the outcome was always a gamble,” sarah says.

passion and guilt. he was both tormented and calmed by his loves.

36 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

ARTS

PHOTOS: LISA ATTARD

“It’s like Picasso the painter, the etcher, the sculptor are all dancing to find out which one can create a better Marie Therese – it is a time in which Picasso is making art and making love,” Sarah says.

was also influenced by the bull and bullfighting – it was the iconography that he had grown up with.

We therefore see the Picasso depict himself as the Minotaur, the Minotaur being violent, the Minotaur being passionate, the

There’s no two ways about it: Picasso lived for passion, he was very much attached to the things of the world; he loved women and drinking, bullfighting and partying, he was, in short, a man attached to carnality.

The themes of the Vollard etchings in some way or other reflect that. You could say that his obsession with Marie Therese features directly or indirectly (the nose is always a clear clue); plus

Minotaur going blind – possibly expressing the fact that there can be no greater death for an artist than to go blind.

“When you look at these etchings you realise that Picasso was very human. Which makes his art incredibly accessible. His art is all about his soul, which is why it’s almost therapeutic,” says Sarah.

Therapeutic? “In his art he speaks about various emotions –

there is the fact that this was the period when the Spanish civil war

anger, hate, feelings of violence, passion – these are all emotions

was brewing – which all in all, makes for the sense of overall

that we can all connect with,” she says.

sobriety of this collection.

Some of the etchings are inspired by the classical past, in particular the classical tale of the Minoan Minotaur. He uses the

So Picasso put them out there, we explore him, then we explore ourselves, and he helps us to let go?

“Exactly. His art helps us to get in touch with our spirit, we can

man-beast creature to express his battle of love and great turmoil.

slow down and contemplate what we’re seeing. We simply have to

“Picasso was able to look back at the past, and then carry it with

have the courage to do nothing and be still when we visit the

him, to be able to move forward,” says Sarah. Being a Spaniard, he

exhibition.”

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ARTS

Miró, the man who drew like a five-year old When you look at the paintings of Miró, you feel like going “Whoopee!” You get that same sort of smile on your lips that you get when you’re on a swing, high up in the air, the yippee-I’m-free happy beam.

But hang on, there are 40 of his paintings exhibited at the Grandmaster’s Palace at the moment, and at times they could easily be, uh, squiggly cave paintings.

Take one called The Bird song in the dew of the moon it looks

to-5 job was not for him and he fell ill. It was only then that his parents (as parents do) finally let him follow his heart, and he

a 5-year old was told to paint a bird. Or that other one called,

was allowed to go to art school. There was no turning back, even

simply, Painting. It’s an oil on canvas, which looks like an alien space

when his first solo exhibition in Paris ended up a disaster – not a

ship drawn by the same five-year old who tore the canvas it in the

single painting was sold – nothing stopped him from pursuing his

process.

passion.

I look at the bright and colourful and happy Mirós and I said

He lived and worked in Paris for some time in his 20s,

to Giulia Privitelli, 25, my Miró tour guide from Fondazzjoni

where he also made friends with Picasso, but then went back to

Patrimonju Malti, “Err, I can easily do these myself?”

Spain. In 1929 he married Pilar Juncosa and a year later, they had

She nods enthusiastically. “It’s why Joan Miró is so great. He makes people want to take up a brush and start painting,” she says.

Why does his painting exude a sense of joy and playfulness?

a daughter, Maria Dolors. During the half century of their marriage, Pilar had a discrete but considerable influence on her husband.

“My wife Pilar is the ideal companion for me. Without her, I

We have to see the context of his life, which was completely

would be an orphan lost in this world. Other than my work, I have

different to Picasso’s.

no idea of anything or how to organize things. She is my guardian

Miró was sent for art lessons when he was seven years old, and there and then he knew that he wanted to be an artist, but his parents (as parents do) had other plans. They sent him to a business school and he ended up working as a clerk. But the 8-

38 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

angel,” Miró once said. They were a stable, closely knit couple, and this helped to ensure a carefully balanced life.

Unlike other artists of his time, he was no social climber and always wanted to live in the periphery – in fact in 1959 he moved

to Palma, in Majorca, because he wanted to be surrounded only by his family and nature. “He was humble, he didn’t like being the centre of attention or entertaining big crowds, he was always interested in the smaller, simpler things of the universe,” Giulia says.

He was obsessed with nature and particularly loved birds because he envied their freedom, also he loved gardening and wanted to operate like nature. His reasoning was that if a plant has the potential to grow on its own, then so did art. “If he bought a canvas, he would leave it outside in the garden and see how it would react to the signs of nature,” she says.

We have to keep in mind that this was a turbulent time in Europe – the Spanish Civil War, World War II – and many artists were questioning everything. “It was the artists who provided society with a path. They changed the structure of thought of society. They gave it the freshness of looking at something different,” Giulia says.

Miró sought to liberate himself from the emotional and carnal ties of the world, in order to find truth. Which explains why his paintings are simple, joyful and childlike. He spent a whole career trying to paint like a child, to experience life without inhibitions. “Because children are true to their art,” she says.

He was a great recycler and would use the oddest things to paint on - like an old car door. And he enjoyed reworking art – he’d buy paintings of some obscure artists from flea markets and then paint over them, radically transforming the idea of paintings. He did not really plan what to paint, but would start painting and then let the brush guide him.

He loved watching the sky and often expressed how he was overwhelmed by its spectacle. “I like to imagine Joan Miró as a passenger on a plane. I’m sure he would not peel his eyes away from window,” Giulia says. “Which is what his art helps us to do: observe, contemplate and wonder,” she says.

Giulia believes that we losing our ability to really see things. “Our lives are being fuelled by noise and blinded by screens. Our mantra has become ‘doing nothing is a sin’. But Miro just did nothing, until he did something. It’s simply about having the courage to have connect with our surroundings, but these days we are avoiding that,” she says.

She says that we are becoming increasingly scared of commitment. “Even idea of committing to an hour of an exhibition is almost daunting: and we’re riddled by thoughts of ‘what if it’s a waste’?”

“Please give Miró a chance. His art helps us live in the now, remind us that we are humans on a journey.”

Picasso and Miró: The Flesh and the Spirit at the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta, is put up by Fundación MAPFRE in collaboration with the Office of the President of Malta and Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti. It runs until June 30. You need to give each artist at least 25 minutes of your time. Let the artists speak to you.

HEALTH

DARK SIDE OF THE SUN DR LAWRENCE SCERRI, HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DERMATOLOGY AT SIR PAUL BOFFA HOSPITAL, DEBUNKS SOME MYTHS ABOUT THE SUN AND SKIN CANCER. There exist several deeply ingrained misconceptions relating to

sand, rocks and concrete to cause indirect harm to one’s skin.

the sun and skin cancer. Consequently it is worth clarifying

Snow is another excellent UV reflector, leading to facial

these misbeliefs with a view to having a better informed public

sunburn in skiers. UV rays also penetrate untinted glass in a

and improving health. By way of introduction it is worth

car. Hence, effective sun protection is still warranted in all

emphasising that there is strong scientific evidence

these situations.

incriminating the sun’s UV rays as being the predominant worldwide cause of three skin cancers, namely Melanoma,

Myth 4: A good sunscreen protects all day.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Basal Cell Carcinoma, and

This is wishful thinking. Even the best and most

accelerated skin ageing known as photo-ageing. Sun

expensive sunscreens do not protect for longer than three

protection in the form of high factor sunscreen and

hours, in spite of various claims. Hence, one needs to re-apply

appropriate protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses between

after three hours or less, especially if going in and out of the

11am and 4pm go a long way towards minimising such risk.

water or in sweaty conditions – and not forgetting oftenoverseen areas, such as the ears, back of the neck and feet. It

Myth 1: It is safe to stay in the sun and get a tan gradually as long as one does not burn.

Although sunburn is more harmful than tanning, as far as

is wise to use opt for SPF 50+ protection. Naturally, one should not underestimate the effectiveness of additional simple measures such as a hat and T-shirt.

melanoma and basal cell carcinoma is concerned, staying in the sun long enough to get a tan still carries a significant risk of inducing squamous cell carcinoma and, undoubtedly also

Myth 5: The chemicals in sunscreens can actually increase the risk of skin cancer.

accelerates skin ageing in the long run. Moreover, people with

On the contrary, there is overwhelming statistical

very fair skin can hardly ever tan if at all, and their skin only

scientific evidence to show that sunscreen is a very valuable

burns under the effect of UV rays.

tool in the fight against skin cancer.

Myth 2: One cannot get sunburnt on an overcast spring/summer day.

Myth 6: Covering a mole with a plaster or extra layer of sunscreen protects against melanoma.

Clouds are not as effective in filtering out harmful UV

This is nonsense. At least 50 per cent of melanomas

rays as one might think and, in fact, up to 60 per cent of the

occur anywhere on the skin and not necessarily in a pre-

sun’s UV rays do actually penetrate clouds. This, combined

existing mole.

with a refreshing breeze makes it even more likely for one to be caught unawares. Hence, sun protection is still warranted in this situation, particularly with a UV index of six or higher.

Myth 7: Long periods in the sun are needed to achieve adequate Vitamin D levels in the body.

Myth 3: One does not need to wear sun protection

Certainly not. Very modest sun exposure,

underneath an umbrella, tent or tree or in a car with closed

combined with a balanced diet, are enough to

windows on a sunny day.

guarantee adequate amounts of this vitamin,

In an open environment such as a beach, park or on a boat, considerable amounts of UV rays are reflected from sea,

42 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

which is essential for healthy teeth and bones.

HEALTH

Sun protection and appropriate protective clothing between 11am and 4pm go a long way towards minimising risk

THE FACTS • 1 in 8 people diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer in Malta die.

• Melanoma skin cancer, which is linked to sun exposure, is by far the most common skin-related cause of death worldwide.

• The number of cases of skin cancer in Malta has doubled in the last two 20 years.

• Surgical removal of early stage melanoma leads to an excellent survival rate in the region of 90-95 per cent at five years.

• There are a total of around 70-75 new cases of melanoma each year with around 8-9 people dying for melanoma each year in Malta.

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STYLE

WHEN IT COMES TO BRINGING IN THE FAB, BAY STREET HAS YOUR BACK.

THE GLAM SQUAD Styling and Creative Direction Caroline Paris @ Caroline’s Fashion Styling (carolinefashionstyling.com) Photography Kurt Paris Models Alina @supernova.com Make-up Amanda Greaves Hair Flavia Borg Attard @ dcolorpallet siggiewi

Caroline Paris is a fashion and personal stylist whose portfolio includes television series, local celebrities, magazine work and campaigns. She won the Best Stylist Award at the Malta Fashion Awards three times and currently blogs on www.carolinefashionstyling.com Kurt Paris is a fashion photographer whose technical expertise in lighting manipulation enables him to explore different paths of creativity while ensuring the image quality is never compromised. Kurt won the Malta Fashion Award for Best Photographer these last three years.

44 Sunday Circle âˆŤ MAY 2018

STYLE

Dress, Jacket: Tommy Hilfiger Bag: Accessorize

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

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STYLE

Dress: Armani Exchange Shoes: ALDO Watch: EJewels

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STYLE

Hat: Accessorize Jumpsuit: Pedro del Hierro Bangle: EJewels

Jacket: Armani Exchange Swimsuit, Bangle: Accessorize

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STYLE

Dress: Cortefiel Bag: Accessorize Shoes: Aldo

48 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

HEALTH

A matter of the HEART HEART FAILURE REMAINS THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN MALTA, BESIDES BEING A MAJOR DRAIN ON THE NATIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM. YET, NEW DRUGS CAN IMPROVE PROGNOSIS SUBSTANTIALLY, LEADING TO FEWER HOSPITAL STAYS AND PATIENTS WHO CAN FUNCTION IN SOCIETY. DR ROBERT G. XUEREB, CHAIRMAN OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CARDIOLOGY, AT MATER DEI HOSPITAL EXPLAINS MORE. What is heart failure and what does a

you tend to hear about cancer a lot more

a patient may wake up in the middle of the

typical patient complain of?

than you hear about cardiovascular disease.

night suffering extreme shortness of breath.

The four leading causes of heart disease are

Something like this is definitely an

the heart is not pumping blood as well as it

diabetes, hypertension, fat in the blood and

emergency requiring hospitalisation.

should, and thus cannot keep up with its

smoking – all of these can be controlled in

workload. We depend on the heart to pump

order to prevent the onset of the condition.

blood and oxygen to the rest of the body –

People simply need to eat healthily and to

when this doesn’t happen as efficiently as it

exercise more.

Put simply, heart failure means that

should, the result is that the body cells don’t have enough blood to function normally.

When this happens, symptoms include constant fatigue, shortness of breath

How does heart failure impact patients’ and their families’ lives?

Both patients and families tend to be affected very negatively. The worse the

Why are heart failure patients hospitalised, and how often?

Heart failure is the leading cause of

condition becomes, the more the patient becomes dependent on the family. Daily activities such as housework, being mobile

(especially when lying down), swollen ankles

repeat hospitalisation, as once the heart is

and even attending work – especially in the

due to fluid retention, difficulty in any kind

damaged, with time it weakens more and

case of manual labour – become more

of physical activity, such as walking up the

more. As a consequence, medical

difficult to cope with. This affects everyone

stairs, the need to sleep raised on two

treatment often needs to be changed or

who is close to the patient, as he or she need

pillows. Anyone who consistently suffers

increased regularly, with the result that the

to deal with their loss of independence,

from such symptoms should get themselves

patient often ends up hospitalised,

while the family needs to carry out all those

checked by a doctor immediately, as heart

repeatedly. Most heart medication is taken

needs that have become impossible for their

disease is tackled much more efficiently the

intravenously and requires accurate

loved one.

earlier it is caught.

monitoring. Sometimes, it can also negatively impact other organs, such as the

How common is heart failure in Malta?

kidneys. For this reason, heart patients tend

Heart failure affects 1 to 2 per cent of

to be hospitalised regularly, for longer

the Maltese population. It is the number one cause of death in Europe and Malta, far more common than cancer, even though

Dr Robert G. Xuereb

50 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

periods every time.

Moreover, with heart failure, symptoms are typically acute and sudden. For example,

What is the psychological burden of heart failure?

Heart failure brings with it a major change in lifestyle, and the consequences are not only physical, but also mental.

Patients get depressed – as can their family

HEALTH

Patients and the public attend this year's Heart Failure Awareness Day.

A member of the public gets her blood pressure checked by a member of the Malta Medical Students Association (MMSA).

members – and this condition only worsens

assess and adjust treatment accordingly in

percutaneous intervention that is performed

as soon as they realise that the prognosis is

order to avoid repeat hospitalisation. This

in very few countries, yet six Maltese patients

poor. The younger the patient, the more

is done in liaison with heart doctors, of

have already benefited from it.

real these negative consequences. An older

course.

person will, to a certain extent, have

We also now have a heart specialist

How important is improving said

already accepted the idea of reduced

led clinic led by Dr Alice May Moore, who is

independence once a certain age is

UK-trained. There is also a cardiomyopathy

reached. For a younger patient, the

clinic led by Dr Tiziana Felice, also UK-

failure cure. Recently, two new drugs

consequences are more drastic, especially

trained, who assesses both patients and

were introduced: Ivabradine and

if there are young children involved.

their family, in order to determine genetic

Sacubitril/Valsartan, which is a

problems. Dr Daniela Cassar Demarco leads

combination of two other drugs. Both are

a Valve Clinic while Dr Elton Pllaha leads a

innovative and, thanks to large multicentre

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

international studies have proven a

(TAVI) Clinic where patients suffering from

dramatically improved outcome for heart

system. We have calculated that a hospital

heart failure as a result of valvular heart

patients. During the PARADIGM study that

bed stay is extremely expensive – €1,224

disease are expertly managed.

was done on Sacubitril/Valsartan abroad, a

How do the hospitalisations impact society, and at what cost?

This is a major burden on the health

for a four-night stay, taking into account

Because we really believe in

medical treatments?

This remains the mainstay of heart

20 per cent reduction in mortality rates

food, cleaning, hospital bed space,

preventing heart disease, we also have a

electricity, water and all the other daily

number of awareness campaigns, like the

requirements. If you also add the cost of

recently-held Heart Failure Awareness Day.

any medical device used, then that pushes

The latter was very well-received, both by

the figure much higher.

patients and by the media, which is

and are not yet available on the National

essential when it comes to communicating

Health System (NHS). As a department we

this awareness to the public.

are doing our utmost to get them included.

What are the Department of Cardiology and the Health Department doing about this?

Finally, there’s also a rehab clinic that

and hospital stays was proven.

How accessible are these medicines?

These medicines are available privately

Although the introduction of new drugs is a

is nurse-led, where existing patients are

considerable expense, there is also the

educated about lifestyle changes – such as

reality that by offering them on the NHS we

very seriously, and we have introduced a

introducing exercise, quitting smoking etc –

would be reducing the bigger expenses of

number of measures aimed at both

so as to improve their condition.

hospital stays and surgery drastically. The

The Department takes this matter

preventing the condition in the first place

From a technical point of view, we have

authorities are very aware that heart failure is

and at containing the negative effects once

increased the number of CRTs, which are a

a major socio-economic burden, and the aim

it is present.

special kind of pacemaker that improve heart

is to address it through all means available,

function for a better long-term outcome; we

including by making the best drugs available

heart failure clinic, that we also recently

have introduced home monitoring and

on the national inventory.

expanded. There are 700 patients using it

improved the medical treatments available.

at any one time, with specialised nurses to

We also introduced the MitraClip procedure

monitor each individual regularly and to

last year – this is a cutting-edge cardiac

We have introduced a nurse-led

Promotional Article by the Department of Cardiology to raise Heart Failure awareness.

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

51

LUXURY TOURISM

Robert Ortiz at Lima Fitzrovia.

Peruvian cuisine matches myriad flavours with an explosion of colours.

52 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

LUXURY TOURISM

CAPITAL OF

KUL

WITH APOLOGIES FOR THE TERRIBLE PUN, RAMONA DEPARES DOES THE FOODIE TOUR OF LONDON, WITH PLENTY OF CELEBRITY CHEF SPOTTING AND NARY A FISH ‘N’ CHIP JOINT IN SIGHT. There was a far-off time when I firmly believed that London nosh equalled fish and chips, takeout Chinese from Camden and waffles from the stands in Oxford Street. Which was pretty much all I could afford.

This was a point of view shared by many Maltese – cheap carbloading on a straight-on shopping trip was the order of the day. Fast forward a decade or so and, thank the gods of taste, this is no longer so.

London has become a lot more than a trip to the dreaded Primark, a quick stop at Madame Tusseaud’s and Buckingham Palace, and fast food for empty pockets.

Today, the city is a regular stop for serious foodies. From Michelin restaurants, to ethnic cuisine, hipster joints and quirky DIY eateries, it’s all happening in the capital of kul. Should non-Maltese speakers be reading this, kul is our word for ‘eating’ and this trip was going to be all about that.

The research started early on. The truth is that the city is home to some of the most ‘in’ restaurants that come with month-long waiting lists, and we didn’t want to be left out in the cold. The mission was simple: a traditional British restaurant (if such a thing existed), a high-tea place (you don’t get much more traditional than that, do you?); an exotic restaurant, just to see how London deals with the idea of ‘weird’ food; and a ‘Continental’ one.

We touched down at Gatwick and, some hours later were happily seated at Sketch (https://sketch.london/), housed in an exquisite palazzo in Mayfair. Sketch, for those not in the know, is popularly touted as ‘the most Instagrammed location’ in the UK. I walk in, not sure what to expect. I mean, a high tea is a high tea, right? Well – not quite. Put it this way, as soon as I stepped into the palazzo I felt exactly as Alice must have felt when she took a tumble down the rabbit hole.

Forget the idea of a cosy tea. Sketch is all about the decadence, starting with the decor by celebrity architectural designer India Mahdavi, which wouldn’t look out of place on a Wes Anderson set. You go through two checks before you’re allowed into the inner sanctum of The Gallery at the back and, when you do, you will be completely blown away. There’s pink, a lot of it, but somehow it’s not

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

53

LUXURY TOURISM

annoying. A massive rose bar dominates the

dash of ginger here, some tamarind there and

backdrop. An exhibition by David Shrigley; tables

Plantain chips to finish it off, and the end result is

with cute, velvet stool and quirky crockery, and the

an explosion of colour and flavour. These Peruvians

tableau is complete. Just being there is an

clearly know how to do their thing well.

experience.

The ‘tea’ that follows is pure pleasure, four

Everything I tasted at Lima brought with it a pleasant frisson of surprise, no matter how

courses of mouthgasms, washed down by our

mundane the dish may have sounded at first.

choice of tea and Pommery champagne. The

Pakchoi, duck, octopus, potato stew. Everything

finger sandwiches were a delightful twist on the

was a burst of joy, brought to a masterful end with

tried-and-tested formula. The warm scones

the traditional Alfajores (a concoction of almond,

crumbled most delightfully in my mouth. A Victoria

honey, hazelnut and Dulce di Leche) icecream,

Sponge was followed by a most-needed lull and

served with honeycombe. And, of course, Peruvian

more champagne. It all came to an end with a

coffee with Pisco. Lima, I’m a true believer – exotic

selection of petits gateaux, each morsel delicate

foodie stop on the London circuit, check.

and bursting with sumptuousness.

By the end of it, my palate was more than

The following day we made our way to the third experiment on our foodie list, a chef whose

sated, but just being at Sketch is such fun that I

creations I had been wanting to experience for

spent another half-an-hour listening to the live string

quite a while. I mean, a British celebrity chef

quartet and finishing off my pot of Sichuan tea.

specialising in Italian food? What could be more

As foodie experiences go, this one ticked all

unlikely? Theo Randall at The InterContinental

the boxes. Quite the welcome to our foodie tour,

(http://www.theorandall.com/) is quite the sought-

London. Next stop, quite a few hours later, was as

after name, so I had full faith that this unlikelihood

different from Sketch as chalk is to cheese – Lima

would lead to something exquisite. Although I’m

in Fitzrovia (www.limalondongroup.com/),

usually wary of restaurants within hotels, The

recipient of a Michelin star in 2013 and offering

InterContinental is beautiful, situated on the

contemporary Peruvian cuisine. I, of course, had no

prettier end of Park Lane, its sheer heritage (the

idea what this meant, but knowing that Robert

building stands on the site of the Queen’s

Ortiz and Virgilio Martinez (the latter ranked

childhood residence) willing you to walk inside and

number 4 in the World 50 Best List) are the

explore. I happily explored as far as the restaurant.

culinary brains behind this offering, I needed no

Situated discreetly towards the back of the ground

more convincing. Given our group’s rather

floor, it is spacious, its minimalist and earthy tones

embarrassing ignorance of what constitutes

contributing to the wonder feel of infinite space.

Peruvian cuisine, our waiter gave us a charming

We were greeted by an Italian waiter, who

run-through of what to expect – a melting pot of

packed all the charm traditionally associated with

flavours and techniques from various cultures,

his fellow countrymen. The cuisine at Theo

fused into one gloriously eclectic cuisine. With

Randall’s is described as “simple, rustic, Italian”.

some help, we made our choice of dishes, opting

The menu reflects this. Burrata, Taglierini con

for a sharing approach, and kicked off proceedings

Gamberetti, Ravioli di Zucca, Costata d’Agnello,...

with, as is only right, a traditional Peruvian cocktail,

they’re all there. Simple, traditional dishes that in

the notorious Pisco Sour. Why notorious, you will

reality are anything but simple and require a

ask. This cocktails tastes divine, the ingredients –

degree of perfection and creativity in order to

egg white, brandy, lime juice, Angustura bitters and

impress.

syrup – seamlessly fusing into each other when it’s as expertly mixed as it is at the Lima.

The Pisco Sour was to set the tone for the

Our waiter – who hailed from the Tuscany region, I couldn’t help but enquire – helped us settle on the afore-mentioned dishes, as well as the

rest of the dinner. It looked vibrant, tasted amazing

Costata d’Agnello (rack of lamb) and the Fegato di

and left us with a smile on our faces – the same

Vitello (veal liver). All this, accompanied by a

can be said of every dish that made it to our table

bottle of Campania’s finest, the Greco di Tufo.

that evening. The beauty of Oritz’s and Martinez’s

Albeit British-born, Theo Randall’s really turns

genius is that they take traditional ingredients, add

out to be quintessentially Italian, in that the food

a bit of a twist with seasoning and presentation,

turned up tasting like a work of art that was

and before you know it you’re looking at a Prawn

effortlessly put together. Each ingredient in every

and Avocado ceviche, but not as you know it. A

dish stands out, the flavours flirting with each

54 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

Theo Randall does Italian cuisine the British way.

LUXURY TOURISM

Sketch does ‘pretty in pink’ right.

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

55

LUXURY TOURISM

other coyly. Using fresh, seasonal produce does indeed make a discernable difference between your basic Costata d’Agnello and the one you get to enjoy here. The experience lived up to the its promise all the way up to the ultimate test, dessert, which was a plateful of everything so we could share. Everything was top notch, but a special shoutout goes to the Amalfi Lemon Tart and the Raspberry Pannacotta. An espresso later, we were purring in satisfaction.

It’s not everyday that a chef can do Italian better than the Italians, but Theo Randall pulls it off. London was definitely still winning.

But it was time to check out some traditional British food, whatever that may mean (snigger). Our final foodie destination was also part of a hotel, Plum + Spilt Milk (www.plumandspiltmilk.com). Located on the first floor of the Great Northern Hotel, this

Plum + Spilt Milk settles the 'can the Brits do gourmet' question once and for all.

turned out to be the perfect restaurant for a leisurely lunch as it overlooks bustling King’s Cross St Pancras and provides some beautiful people-watching opportunities, especially when seated at one of the window tables.

The decor at both the Great Northern and Plum + Spilt Milk is what I would describe as ‘modern chic’. But, despite the distinct whiff of sophistication, there is nothing stuffy about restuarant, menu or staff.

We had the good fortune to be greeted

by Daniel, one of the best waiters ever – friendly without being intrusive, efficient to the right degree. Bubbly in hand, we went over the menu to pick our ‘modern British’ dishes with Daniel’s suggestions. All the popular, hearty ‘Sunday’ dishes are all present, but they are served with a twist, as I was soon to find out.

Starting out with a Crispy Duck Leg and seared breast, served in plum sauce, and Seared Loch Fyne scallops, with roasted cauliflower and a deligthful sherry vinegar caramel, we immediately decided that Plum + Spilt Milk could

to kill for. And I don’t mean that metaphorically; I’d have loved to

singlehandedly reverse the decidedly iffy reputation that British

see anyone attempt to steal a forkful. But it wasn’t enough – coffee

cooking has suffered from through the years. Clearly, everyone else

was accompanied by Salted Caramel Truffles, signed off with a

had gotten it wrong: this was what British cuisine was supposed to

chocolatey ‘have a good flight’. This was Daniel’s extra touch, after

taste like. Hearty, yet with flavours that don’t overwhelm.

he found out that we’d be flying back to Malta the following day.

We balanced the heartiness of the starters by following up

Just like the fabled English dowager, Plum+Spilt Milk is gentile

with a Brixham Turbot, in a Manzanilla sherry and clam broth; and

and feisty at the same time, cloaking its undeniable sophistication

Guinea Fowl with smoked bacon and petits pois (that’s little peas,

underneath a veneer of fun and flavour.

for you Philistines). Plum + Spilt Milk do comfort food like no other place, with all the flavour and none of the guilt.

To finish off with, we had a Steamed Lemon Sponge Pudding and a Dark Chocolate Mousse with honeycomb icecream. Both were

56 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

The verdict’s out on London. Fancy restaurants that aren’t just fancy but are actually pretty stunning on all fronts. That you can enjoy without taking out a second mortgage. London, you surprising minx, I’ll be back.

CIRCLE PROMOTION

20 YEARS OF

SUCCESS Fast-growing and well-established, Brown’s Pharma Ltd. owns and operates the Brown’s Pharmacy chain, spread around the busiest cities in Malta.

The company was born in 1998, when two entrepreneurs

Robert Spiteri and Alexander Fenech

and long-time friends – Alexander Fenech and Robert Spiteri – took over their first pharmacy. Today, 20 years later, they have grown the chain to 13 outlets, together responsible for 100 per cent of retail sales and serve close to a million clients annually.

More than a simple business, Brown’s can be described as a community pharmacy business, with its mission statement describing precisely what the company is about: “……to be a leading Retail Pharmacy business, seeking consistent and sustainable growth by engaging highly motivated people with cutting edge technology and business processes to meet and whenever possible exceed customer expectations”.

These words offer a clear indication of the strategic direction of the company, mainly to continue increasing market

Brownies at the 20th Anniversary celebrations

share by relying heavily on the ability to provide a superior level of customer service as a major basis of competitivity.

The group never lost sight of its origins and, with growth came the need to fulfil social responsibilities. Beneficiaries include the Malta Community Chest Fund, Kilimanjaro Challenge founded by the late Dun George Grima, Dar tal-Providenza, Marsaxlokk Water Polo Club, The Malta National Rugby Team, ALIVE Foundation, and more.

Here, Alexander Fenech shares some of his thoughts about Brown’s.

What was the initial concept for Brown’s?

Robert Spiteri and I shared a passion for customer focus.

We both had a vision of creating a business culture where like-

Alexander Fenech, President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, Edgar Preca and Robert Spiteri

minded people can flourish and grow the business as a result. So it was natural that we would come together in a business venture. The

This meant that we needed the kind of job strategy that empowers

idea was to create a concept that would grow much more than the

the right people to meet and, whenever possible, exceed our

sum of our abilities and experiences.

customers’ expectations.

Believe it or not, Brown’s as it stands today is pretty much the vision we had for it from Day 1. From the start we were aware that our success would be dependent on getting customers through the

How did growth happen, and how did you manage to maintain your ethos as you grew?

doors, making it easy for them to buy more for us, and giving them

Given the nature of our industry, where the opportunity to

the kind of service that they could enjoy telling their friends about.

operate a pharmacy is finite, acquisitions have been key to the growth

58 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

CIRCLE PROMOTION

of the business. However, by investing in our people, our store design,

contrary, we are always looking for new ways to challenge ourselves –

and a relentless pursuit of operational excellence, we have

whether by becoming better employers or by delivering better

consistently managed to see remarkable post-acquisition organic

customer experience.

growth rates that significantly exceed the growth of the industry itself.

Maintaining our unique, customer/employee centric culture is a job in itself. Recruiting the right kind of people who fit the Brown’s ethos, and investing in their continuous development is key.

How are you contributing to creating the next generation of healthcare leaders?

The introduction of our Brownies is one of our proudest achievements. Our current general manager started her career at

How important is it to maintain a degree of innovation in the healthcare sector?

It is always important to keep pushing the boundaries and

Brown’s as a pharmacy student. The members of our management team had similarly unconventional routes to their current positions.

In 2015 we started a process of outsourcing specific head-office

raising the standards. There is no need to re-invent the wheel – we

job roles to our customer-facing staff. As a result, these roles are

work under the assumption that our competition will catch up with

growing. We are very pleased with what we are seeing; succession

us, and so we make it a point to continuously keep raising the bar.

planning will never be an issue at Brown’s.

Brown’s Management Team: Arianne Scerri, Tiziana Ceci, Damien Mercieca, Robert Spiteri, Alexander Fenech, Elisa Cutajar, Ianina Drenska, Janice Lanzon

What challenges does the sector offer, and how do you meet them effectively?

The constant need to find new ways of being different is a

What is more important – wellness or cost-management?

It’s really a no brainer. Keeping our people happy guarantees happy customers. That way, the costs will take care of themselves.

challenge within itself. At the end of the day, the medication we sell

This is a natural outcome of a simple premise that we have always

are the same as those that our competitors sell. This means that we

adhered to – “treat people like you would want to be treated

have to keep looking for those little extras that keep setting us

yourself”. We have won the Business Leaders Employer of the

apart.

Year Award three years in a row, and we are looking forward to making it four. We have earned our success by surrounding

What type of growth has Brown’s experienced, and how critical is scale?

ourselves by great people and taking good care of them. We are indeed lucky.

We are now the largest retail pharmacy brand in Malta. Getting to this point has been a gradual, well-thought process that ensured

What’s next for the firm?

that we had the right people and the right operational processes in

We would certainly like to double in size, locally, in the next

place to sustain our growth without compromising our culture and

three to five years. And I am sure that we will see a Brown’s store

service.

opening in the UK, soon.

At some point in the future, we will seriously consider taking

How do you deal with innovation and maximise the opportunities it brings?

We have always embraced innovation, and our success is the

the company public. Our staff would have the option of taking ownership of a significant piece of the action. The same applies to our customers – they, too, could become stakeholders. Everything

result of innovation in what was a rather stagnant industry. Mostly this

we do at Brown’s is done with two simple things in mind: creating

is due to our restlessness; we never rest on our laurels. On the

happier employees and happier customers.

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

59

CIRCLE PROMOTION

The Orchard restaurant opens its doors to the public Situated in a serene area of Naxxar, the newly-opened The Orchard Restaurant offers an intimate, yet casual, environment for patrons who want to enjoy a good lunch or dinner in a tranquil setting.

Full of natural light, the set-up makes it also ideal for corporate lunches, private dinners and special occasions. The modern classic restaurant enjoys a beautiful outdoor terrace for those wishing to dine outside.

The restaurant, part of Hilltop Gardens, opened its doors to the public with a grand opening in April. Guests were treated to a five-course meal as a taster from the newlylaunched Orchard Menu, accompanied by

the menu one can also find some sumptuous

grab a mineral water which is included in the

different local wines to complement each

specials, such as the pan-fried spiced duck

price. For Father’s Day, head Chef James

plate. General Manager Charmaine Attard,

and the grilled lamb fillet, amongst others.

Rizzo has put together a mouth-watering

together with AX Holdings Chairman Angelo

Earlier this month, a fresh Summer

buffet lunch menu offering a selection of

Xuereb, greeted guests and thanked them

Menu was launched, featuring dishes that

antipasti, soups and pasta, followed by Irish

for accepting the invitation.

range from freshly-prepared salads to some

roast beef, honey glazed gammon and roast

char grilled steaks and fish dishes, all served

leg of lamb from the carvery table along

with The Orchard kitchen’s original touch.

with oven backed salmon fillets and roast

Ms Attard also introduced The Orchard Head Chef James Rizzo, whose experience was reflected in the beautifully-crafted

The wine list complements the menu

chicken with mushrooms.

For dessert, patrons can choose from

dishes prepared on the night. Mr Rizzo has

by offering a wide spectrum of wines from

worked in the UK with celebrity chef Jamie

around the world. One can start their meal

a selection of pastries, cakes and flans,

Oliver in one of his franchise restaurants,

with something to tease their tastebuds, like

carved fruit and cheese with Maltese galletti

Jamie’s Italian. Mr Rizzo also worked as

the evergreen Negroni cocktail, and go all the

and fresh bread. The price includes free-

Relief Head Chef across Jamie Oliver’s

way to finishing off with more refined tastes

flowing local beer, wine, water and soft

restaurants in the UK and helped out in

like the Vintage Port. The Orchard Restaurant

drinks.

Jamie’s food development kitchen team, for

opens daily for lunch from 12:30hrs till 15:30

his upcoming menus.

and for dinner from 19:00 till 21:30.

The Orchard menu offers a selection

The Orchard is offering a special fast

The Orchard offers complimentary parking facilities to patrons on a first-come first-served basis. The Orchard – Situated at

of traditional gastronomic dishes infused

lunch to cater for those who would want to

Hilltop Gardens, Triq l-Inkwina, Naxxar. For

with other in-house creations, all prepared

have a quick afternoon lunch during break

reservations call on 2235 1000.

by the Head Chef and his dedicated staff

time. The menu offers varied dishes and

www.theorchardmalta.com;

using the finest ingredients. Leafing through

patrons can choose one main course and

www.facebook.com/theorchardmalta

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

61

NATURAL REMEDIES

I LIKE YOUR

COCONUTS BRITISH-BASED ENTREPRENEUR LUCY BEE IS KNOWN FOR HER LINE OF ALL NATURAL FOOD PRODUCTS – BUT THE STORY BEHIND THEM ALL POINTS BACK TO COCONUT OIL, AN ITEM SHE ABSOLUTELY LOVES. LUCY VISITED MALTA RECENTLY TO SHARE HER EXPERTISE ON THE TOPIC, AND, HERE, EXPLAINS WHY COCONUT OIL MAKES A FANTASTIC ALTERNATIVE TO OTHER OILS ON THE MARKET. INTERVIEW BY ANABEL ATTARD. Lucy Bee and her family have a long history with coconut oil. Back

are so much cheaper than others. In fact, it’s that very question that

when she was a baby – at just 18 months old – she was diagnosed as

has led her to source her own versions instead of use some of the

coeliac and her parents had to completely shift their way of eating

ones readily available. “Being ethical is very important to us,” she says.

and educate themselves on the facts about gluten-free food and the

“The coconuts we use are grown in agroforestry, which works in

best ways to keep their daughter fuelled, healthy and feeling her best.

harmony with nature and the environment. As for fair trade, well it

“Growing up, this meant I always had an interest in food and

emphasises support and respect for producers, farmers and workers

enjoyed researching it, as well as finding ways to ensure I had the

by paying a fair price, ensuring improved working conditions, working

important nutrients that I needed,” she explains, as we chat at

towards sustainable community developments and, of course,

Vincent’s Eco Farm in Mgarr.

guaranteeing fair terms of trade. However, it’s also important to know

The family was first introduced to coconut oil in 2007 by a

that not all fair trade schemes are the same. We’ve worked to be

friend who lives in Hong Kong, and soon realised its benefits and

certified by the Fair Trade Sustainability Alliance (FairTSA), which

value to their diets. “Soon we were using it all the time and, in my role

ensured that those farmers and workers who produce coconut oil for

as a beauty therapist back then, I found it very beneficial for my

us benefit directly.”

clients too.

“That was also when we decided to look into coconut oil and

Having used it for so many years and in a variety of different ways, Lucy shares some of her favourite uses for coconut oil. “That

found that some of the options out there weren’t sourced sustainably

would probably be as a make-up remover,” she says, “as it even gets

or responsibly, so we tracked down our own coconut oil which is fair

rid of stubborn waterproof mascara and is really gentle so there is

trade, organic, extra virgin, raw and stored in glass jars. We wanted to

no irritation. This really helps my skin while keeping my lashes

have the best quality possible.”

nourished too.

Going back to basics, Lucy explains that coconut oil comes

“Of course, I also use it in cooking all the time and enjoy making

from the ‘meat of coconuts’. There are different ways in which the oil

scrambled eggs with it. I add one teaspoon of coconut oil to the pan,

is extracted from the meat. One is from fresh coconuts, which are

whisk the eggs and stir on a low heat, then top with chilli flakes and

cold pressed to produce extra virgin coconut oil; the other is from

black peppercorns. It makes the most delicious eggs and you don’t

copra, where the oil extracted from the coconuts has to be refined,

have to use milk or butter. Just remember that a little goes a long way,

bleached and deodorised to make it suitable for human consumption.

so start off with a tiny amount and add more if you need to. This

“Coconut oil is also a fat, and is mainly made up of saturated fatty acids; the interesting thing with coconut oil is that a large

applies when using it as a beauty product too.”

Finally, Lucy stresses that coconut oil shouldn’t be seen as a

proportion of these are called medium-chain fatty acids. Around 50%

replacement for olive oil, but something that can work alongside it.

of these medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil are called

“Due to the saturated fat content, coconut oil is more stable when

lauric acid. The only other place that lauric acid is found naturally high

cooking than olive oil, but I think olive oil works beautifully for

is in mothers’ breast milk,” Lucy explains.

salads and so on. Olive oil is a great source of saturated fatty acids,

Focusing back on why high-quality coconut oil is important versus ‘bargain’ versions, Lucy suggests asking why certain brands

62 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

which may put people off but which are important for a balanced diet,” she adds.

NATURAL REMEDIES

Lucy Bee

MAY 2018 ∫ Sunday Circle

63

NATURAL REMEDIES

HOW TO uSe? WANT TO USE MORE COCONUT OIL AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO OTHER OILS? HERE ARE SOME OF LUCY’S SUGGESTIONS.

RECIPE

It’s great as a spread – coconut oil is a super replacement for people who are lactose and dairy intolerant, as well as vegetarian or vegans I also use it in baking, as you can use a quarter of the recommended amount of butter It works well when frying and

Lucy Bee’s Stir Fried Tofu SERVED 2 Allergy Information Gluten Free, Wheat Free, Lactose Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

roasting, of course, as it’s a saturated fat with a smoke point of approximately 176°C and is non-toxic when heated. It’s a good substitute for processed oils.

I also recommend it as a beauty product, as you can use it as a moisturiser, make-up remover, hair mask, hair serum, lip balm, body scrub with salts, oil pulling, on problematic skin such as eczema or soothing for very dry skin. It contains lauric acid, is anti-bacterial and antifungal, and contains Vitamin e, so it’s very nourishing and hydrating for the skin.

Finally – and here’s a random one! – you can use it on stiff zips. I have had a few pairs of shoes that have got stuck and I have used a tiny amount of coconut oil to loosen them.

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In a wok or frying pan, add the Lucy Bee Coconut Oil. Heat to melt before adding the ginger, garlic, chilli, tamari, Lucy Bee Coconut Sugar and rice wine vinegar and stir together. Add the tofu and fry for 3-4 minutes, on a medium heat, turning constantly to allow the flavours to coat the tofu. Add the broccoli, carrot

Ingredients • 1 tbsp coconut oil • 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, grated • 1 garlic clove, grated • 1 red chilli, sliced • 2 tsp tamari • 1/2 tsp Lucy Bee Coconut Sugar • 2 tsp rice wine vinegar • 140g firm tofu, cut into chunks • 1/2 broccoli head, cut into little florets • 1 small carrot, peeled into strips • 75g mangetout • 4 spring onions, sliced • 1 tbsp sesame seeds • 120g brown rice, cooked • 1 tsp sesame oil

and mangetout and fry for 3 minutes – if looking a little dry, add a splash more tamari. Lastly, add in the spring onions and sesame seeds, fry for 30 seconds.

Serve with the cooked brown rice and drizzle some sesame oil over.

This is equally delicious to eat straight away or to take to work for lunch.

“We tracked down our own coconut oil which is fair trade, organic, extra virgin, raw and stored in glass jars.”

SPORT

Clash of the

Titans IT’S ONLY A HANDFUL OF DAYS BEFORE IT ALL GOES DOWN AT THE MALTA POLO CLUB, WITH THE FINAL MATCH OF THE PLAYING SEASON GATHERING TOGETHER THE TOP DOGS FROM THE POLO COMMUNITY.

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SPORT

June 9 sees all the action happening at the Malta Polo Club, as the most prestigious and final match of the Club’s playing season – the Cawnpore Cup – takes place, bringing together the best names in the sport.

The trophy was first contested in 1901, at Cawnpore India, some 118 years ago. Gifted to the Malta Polo Club in 1947, the Cup has been played for annually with the exception of the war years. The highest handicapped polo players in the Club are eligible to play in the Cawnpore Cup, and this year’s teams are set to offer a fantastic show to spectators.

The event will be attended by President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, who will present the Cawnpore Cup to the winning team. The Club expects a record attendance of distinguished VIP’s and invited guests and the match will be followed by presentation of the Cawnpore Cup to the winning team, with awards for Most Valuable Player and Best Playing Pony.

Established in 1868, the Malta Polo Club is the second oldest polo club worldwide. Through this event, the Club will be holding fundraising efforts to supporting the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation / Solidarjetà bl-isports 2018, with a substantial sum expected to be collected thanks to the generosity of attending patrons, guests and club members. This support continues throughout the whole season.

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ANIMAL WELFARE

‘We Need Your Help!’

IN A MONTH AND A HALF’S TIME, THE ASSOCIATION FOR ABANDONED ANIMALS’ OLD SANCTUARY IN MARSA WILL BE DEMOLISHED. WITH THE NEW ONE STILL A CONSTRUCTION SITE AND AROUND 90 DOGS FACING THE REALITY OF, ONCE AGAIN, ENDING UP ON THE STREETS – OR WORSE – IGGY FENECH CHATS TO THE ASSOCIATION’S DIRECTOR ROSALIND AGIUS TO FIND OUT WHY WE SHOULD HELP. They hail from every district on the island and come

AAA’s bank account bled dry as the charity runs one

in various shapes and sizes. Some are expensive pure

sanctuary and pays for the refurbishment of another,

breeds while others aren’t; some are puppies and

things have never looked this bleak or uncertain.

some are old; some are healthy and others sick. But

“I can’t let the dogs down; we can’t let the dogs

there are two things that unite the dogs currently

down!” says Rosalind, who has been volunteering

being sheltered at the Association for Abandoned

tirelessly at animal sanctuaries for the past 14 years.

Animals’ (AAA) old sanctuary. The first, is that they

“These poor dogs have already been hurt – some

were all abandoned by their supposed families-for-

even physically and brutally – and we are responsible

life and, the second, is that they have been given

for giving them a better life. I implore anyone reading

another chance at a happy life.

this to help us, every cent makes a difference!”

Yet, all that is being threatened as the AAA,

Thankfully, help is starting to arrive: following

with Rosalind Agius at its helm, has found itself at a

an impromptu Facebook campaign by friends of the

crossroads.

AAA, hundreds of people have donated €2.33 each

At the end of June, the lease on the current

to the cause. And, the day after our interview,

AAA sanctuary within Marsa Industrial Estate will

Rosalind met Minister Ian Borg to discuss how the

expire, and the premises are scheduled to be

Government could help further.

flattened. While the landowner has been generous

“We’ve been working on the new sanctuary for

with extensions, time has run out and the new

a long time, but between shortages of money, the

sanctuary, located just a few hundred metres away

waiting time for permits, and other things that were

from the Freeport in Birzebbugia, is still not complete.

completely out of our hands, we are now just five

Venturing through the construction zone that is their new shelter – which the Government has leased to the AAA at a subsidised rate – the bigger picture

weeks away from having to close the old sanctuary,” Rosalind continues.

Refurbishing the old radio tower into a modern

points towards a state-of-the-art sanctuary where

sanctuary is no mean feat. And the refurbished

the dogs in the care of the AAA will have their quality

premises now consist of 22 kennels, separate areas

of life bettered enormously. But, with the project

for puppies and elderly dogs, a clinic, a quarantine

running into the tens of thousands, and with the

area, an isolation room for dogs with infectious

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ANIMAL WELFARE

Rosalind Agius.

PHOTO: JONATHAN BORG

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ANIMAL WELFARE

These poor dogs have already been hurt – some even physically and brutally

diseases, a store-room, a reception area, a kitchen split into two (one side for humans and another for dogs), a bathroom for the staff and the volunteers, and a number of outside areas where the dogs will be able to roam, exercise and enjoy their new-found peace.

Hearing the stories of how some dogs came to be at the sanctuary is pretty heartbreaking. Andrew, for example, spent eight years outside a farm at the mercy of the elements and his past owners as a metal chain dug deep into his neck. Now a timid but loving dog, he’s gained over 15 kilos since he was brought to the sanctuary.

Then, there’s Johann. An adorable, medium-sized, Pomeranian-cross who seemed relatively healthy when he entered the sanctuary, only for the AAA to discover that he was full of shrapnel. He has been adopted, but the cruelty he

The Association for Abandoned Animals is a registered NGO (Charity VO/0092). You can donate to the cause by sending an SMS on 5061 7350 to donate €2.33, to 5061 8060 for €4.66, to 5061 8910 for €6.99, and to 5061 9200 for €11.65.

HELP THESE DOGS SURVIVE 72 Sunday Circle ∫ MAY 2018

To donate via PayPal or credit card, please visit their Facebook page.

ANIMAL WELFARE

Starved and maltreated dogs… now safe, fed, bathed and cared for suffered will affect him physically for life and will probably result in arthritis and even in a reduced life-span.

And Chucky, dropped off by his 19-year-old owner whose only reply to ‘Could we know why you can’t take care of him anymore?’ was a heartless shrug…

“As the saying goes one’s person’s trash is another person’s treasure,” Rosalind tells me. “Chucky now lives with me in my apartment. He has brought so much joy and love into my family’s life.”

The stories continue: starved and maltreated dogs; dogs with bludgeoned eyes, skin infections, bruises and broken bones. Yet now, at least, all safe, fed, bathed and cared for; and while some may never

“There is no other alternative, we must finish this sanctuary by the end of June. And I ask anyone who can help – individual or company – to do so, for the sake of these dogs.”

To thank the philanthropists who will donate €1,000 or more, the AAA will place their logos and names on a billboard right outside the gate, giving a further incentive as the new sanctuary is located on Hal Far Road, a main artery in the area.

As for the rest of us, even the smallest contribution towards the AAA will help and you can find the details to do so via SMS, your bank, PayPal and various other methods in the box below.

For more information about the Association for Abandoned

be rehomed, the sanctuary sticks to its no-kill policy, and dogs who

Animals, please visit www.aaamalta.com or find the charity on

are not adopted can live the rest of their days playing with others.

Facebook.

HEALTH

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY DENTISTRY When it comes to advanced cases, more than one dental discipline is often required. This is quite a common scenario.

In fact these cases might not look too complicated and would very often achieve a satisfactory result with routine dentistry.

However, very few of today’s patients are happy with a satisfactory result. Most patients are after very good results, which tick all their priority boxes, leaving them very happy and confident with their new smile. In order to achieve these optimal results, one must first start off with an in-depth consultation with the patient.

It is important for us practitioners to find out exactly

Intra-oral before treatment

what the patient likes and dislikes about their current smile and what result they wish to achieve. Once those questions are answered practitioners may devise a treatment plan involving one or more than one dental discipline. More often than not, more than one treatment plan is proposed. The plans might vary with the duration of treatment, the expenses as well as the nature of the dentistry required. The main difference will always be the aesthetic result. Usually, the more complicated treatment plan with longer treatment time and higher expenses delivers the better results.

Intra-oral during treatment

A CASE STUDY A young professional wishes to improve her smile. She is very conscious of the midline, which has shifted to one side, showing an asymmetrical smile. Studies show that when the midline shift is that much, it can be picked up by most people. This shift was exacerbated by the low attachment of upper lip fibres, attaching the lip to the gum, as well as two genetically missing teeth.

In the past, the case was restored with a fixed bridge, but the patient remained unhappy with the overall result – and rightly so.

The patient was treated with orthodontics (braces), oral surgery and cosmetic dentistry spanning

Post treatment

over two years. The result is not perfect, but shows a large improvement. One of the most important aspects in our line of work is for the patient to walk out happy.

At times we may not be fully satisfied with the results, but if the patient is happy, everyone is happy. Ask your dentist!

Content provided by Dr Jean Paul Demajo, Dental and Implant Surgeon.

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PAPA RAZZI

Marco Parascandolo (Skandlu) and Sarah Zerafa

Audrey Cachia and Katia Deguara Calleja

• 1-6 Brown’s Pharma Ltd., had their big 20th anniversary celebrations, at the Bastion Pool, Phoenicia. The event was attended by more than 250 people; with a number of prominent guest appearances.

• 7-12 The grand launch of The Orchard restaurant situated at Hilltop Gardens, Naxxar.

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Robert Spiteri, Michelle Spiteri, Edgar Preca, H.E. Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, Alexander Fenech and Diana Butuc

Rebekah Azzopardi and Francesca Sammut

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5

7 Kimberly Agius Cutajar, Jeffrick Cachia, Lawrence Zammit, Amy Novakovic, Charmaine Attard, Tara-Louise Zammit, Lisa Mellish, Marcelle Triganza, Myra Piorkowska and Malcolm Cuschieri

Raymond Bugeja, Angelo Xuereb, LT. Col. Peter Cordina and Mathilde Balzan

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Jutta Eisinger, Charles Spiteri and Tiziana Ceci

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Charmaine Attard, Angelo Xuereb, Jessie Xuereb and John Soler

Josef Formosa Gauci, Denise Micallef Xuereb, Patrick Galea, Charmaine Attard, Angelo Xuereb, John Soler and Chris Paris

Josef Formosa Gauci, Denise Micallef Xuereb, Maria Micallef, Angelo Xuereb, Jessie Xuereb and Charmaine Attard

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Grazielle Camilleri and Caroline Paris

Ylenia Spiteri and James Jelliffe

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PAPA RAZZI

Edward Scicluna, David Curmi and Peter Miehle

• 1-4 Mapfre MSV Life recently launched the first fully digital savings product – Savvisave during a reception at the Corinthia San Gorg.

• 5-9 Biocare Company Ltd launched the latest Dermalogica product, Sound Sleep Cocoon, to all the Dermalogica professional Skin Therapists and Salon owners.

• 10-14 Emirates celebrates 20 years of service in Malta – Emirates recently held a lavish lunch at Zest Restaurant to celebrate the 20th Anniversary since the airline’s first flight to Malta from Dubai in 1998. Present for the lunch were journalists from Malta’s main mediahouses as well as other distinguished guests.

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Daryl Stewart and Michael Galea

Peter Grech, Matthew Vella, Sara Pavia, Michael Galea, Owen Caruana, Carmen Pacheco Navarro, Carly Burton, David Curmi and Daryl Stewart

Monica Lautier and Mariella Borg

Tina Higgans and Aurora Caruana Frascogna

Noel Grima and Alex Attard

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Miriam Farrugia and Phyllis Spiteri Lucas

Edmund Vassallo and Mario Micallef

Paul Fleri Soler, David Melillo and Simon Muscat

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Peter Miehle, Felipe Navarro and Stefan Reulein

Berta Patiniott, Mary Vella, Maria Borg and Nadine Scerri Simiana

Lillian Camilleri and Tanya Bugeja

Edmund Vassallo, Renee Micallef Decesare and David Melillo

Ray Bugeja and Matthew Xuereb

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LIVING stYlish seAting

Authentic freshness 7UP is the original Lemon Lime soft drink since 1929. 7UP contains 100 per cent natural lemon and lime flavours, with no colourings, preservatives or caffeine for a crisp, clean and refreshing taste. 7UP has always been authentic and original. It is as fresh and original today as it ever was. Now with less sugar for a great refreshing taste. With 7UP, it simply feels good to be you.

The 2018 Outdoor collection at Form features a light yet sturdy range of powdercoated aluminium tables and chairs. The collection includes extendible tables in a variety of finishes from Jati & Kebon of Belgium. The table surfaces are primarily glass for easy maintenance whilst the sofas and armchairs are composed of dry foam and batyline mesh which do not retain water.

Their non-fading, soft fabrics ensure supreme comfort and durability. Being lightweight is an important feature as they can be left outside or taken inside with ease when necessary.

Form's Collection also includes a selection of designer ranges from Cane-line of Denmark particularly hand-woven treated rope features on comfy sofas and armchairs as well as their best selling dining sets in quality netting over aluminium frames. Enjoy your outdoor spaces, style and comfort shouldn't be limited to your indoors! For more information visit us in store, Valley Road, Msida. www.form.com.mt

redefining the future of driving In 2018, Continental Cars Ltd started offering a range of stylish and efficient VW electric and plug-in hybrid cars from the city proof e-up! to the refined and practical e-Golf. e-up! – Are you thinking to convert to electric mobility? The new e-up! makes it possible.

The electric city car is powered by a compact electric motor and makes it great fun to drive. It combines an advanced electric drive with additional innovative technologies to provide a range of up to 160 kilometres. The countless customisation options give you the chance to design your own personal e-up! e-Golf – Other than running on electricity, this is 100 per cent Golf – loaded with equipment and with a range of 300km (NEDC). Two different driving profiles allow you to directly influence the range, acceleration and maximum speed of the e-Golf.

Golf GTE – The Plug-in Hybrid Golf GTE combines a modern conventional engine and innovative electric motor in one car. Together they unite dynamics and economy. Visit Continental Cars Ltd. to see the full range. e-up! starting from € 19,000, e-Golf starting from €29,000, Golf GTE starting from € 30,000 (All prices include Government grant and Scrappage Scheme).

Your sound compAnion The new Bose SoundWear Companion – Hands Free. Ears Free. A wearable, comfortable speaker that immerses you in surprisingly deep, clear sound. Keep your phone in your pocket and still stay connected to your music, phone calls, voice assistants, and the world around you. The Bose SoundWear supports two simultaneous Bluetooth connections, lets you take calls in crystal-clear quality and gives you access to Siri or Google Assistant. With a flexible neckband that conforms to your body and a 12hour battery life, you are guaranteed quality sound and comfort all day long. Available from Doneo www.doneo.com.mt

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superior vintAge The 2017 vintage of the Victoria Heights Chardonnay, D.O.K. Gozo, Superior, won a silver medal at the Chardonnay du Monde contest in Burgundy and a bronze medal at the Challenge du Vin in Bordeaux, France. This award-winning unoaked wine is skilfully crafted by Delicata from hand-picked grapes from Gozo. In both competitions, it was the only wine from Malta to win this year. For trade enquiries send an e-mail to sales@delicata.com. www.delicata.com

178, MARINA STREET, PIETÀ | ST ANNE STREET, FLORIANA TEL: 2010 3715, 2010 2949 | WWW.VICTORAZZOPARDI.COM