December 2017 - January 2018, Issue No. 52
the CHANIA POST
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If large quake causes tsunami in Aegean... It will hit coast in 10-15 minutes, says professor Synolakis
If an earthquake measuring over 7 on the Richter scale causes a tsunami in the Aegean, people will have just 10-15 minutes to react until the wave slams on the coast, said Costas Synolakis, Professor of Environmental Engineering at the University of Crete, during a speech at an event at the Academy of Athens, where he was admitted as its 45th regular member. “As we will not have enough time, we need to have several reaction scenarios ready in advance and make the right preparation, so that from the moment the tsunami is detected, the Civil Protection and other relevant services will be able to make good use of the time available,” he said.
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TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS RECIPES FROM CRETE
Chania In Top 9 European Retirement Destinations
Retiring in Europe is about launching a new life in a new country, starting over in a unique place with Old World culture. But there’s no one way to determine the best place to retire for every person. That’s why we have identified the best destinations in Europe that are each special for their own reasons.
“Save Our Post Office!”
A message to the Hellenic Post by expats living in Vamos
Expats
living in villages of Apokoronas are served at the moment by a franchise of the Hellenic Post in Vamos, because the main post office is located at Vrysses. Many people are too old to go from Vamos to Vrysses and get their letters or parcels. They have already created a FB group, in order to “send a message” to the Hellenic Post… not to close the franchise by the end of the year. Mayor of Apokoronas, Mr. Charalambos Koukianakis, was also informed for their major
problem, in an effort to find if area is quite rural, many people there is any possibility to solve it. have to go to tavernas and mini As they write in ther group… “our markets to pick up letters. This is not secure, there has been theft and stuff going missing. E.LT.A. want to use Vrysses as the main parcel and registered letterbase, meaning you will have to travel there to collect any parcels or registered mail. Many people are old and do not have the transport and we would have thought internationally mail should arrive at the recipients door. We don’t ask for that, just maintain the service that villages are served at the moment has worked over the years. The by a franchise, but it will be shut “save the post office” is referring to at the end of the year. Because this Vamos”.
PUBLIC BUS SERVICES - KTEL
is the Best Affordable and Safe Way to Travel to Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and to all villages of Southwestern Crete
Photo of the Month
(by Stratos Solanakis)
CHANIA POST
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A Complaint from Santa
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news & articles
I’m afraid I write with com-
plaint about the modern conditions that I find myself having to work under in the Chania Perfecture. As you are aware, my reindeer powered delivery service has provided a chimney to Christmas tree package for many decades without complaint, however I now feel obliged to make my feelings known on a number of issues that are causing distress to my continued contractual obligations, these are as follows: - Pitched tiled roofs. Historically the majority of Cretan roofs were gloriously flat and constructed of solid concrete. These were ideal for my reindeer sleigh to land safely on and perfect for a ‘STOL’ (short
takeoff and landing). However a fashion trend appears to be developing for pitched tile roofs which cause all manner of Health & Safety issues, not to mention the increased risk charges to my third party insurance cover. - The Zomba, log burners Old Cretan fireplaces featured notably generous chimney widths which gave an easy access on a cold winter’s night. Yet these are increasingly being replaced with these modern fangled ‘Zomba’ appliances. Consider if you will the practicality of hefting my not insignificant bulk, a heavily laden sack of toys and a crisp sprig of mistletoe down these narrow concertina pipes. Then to add insult to injury I all too often find the Zomba door
Find CHANIA POST at the following points:
by Hobson Tarrant
locked from the outside as an oversight of the drunken man of the house as he totters away to his bed whilst I work unaided. - Competition Both myself and the good lady Mrs Claus, are aghast at the rise in use of our competition, despite our solid reputation for reliability and lack of commercial gain. Yet watch as we may, parcel’s marked ‘Amazon’ or some such, continue to arrive on doorsteps or even be flown in by ‘drones’ whatever they are. These deliveries appear to occur on any number of days before Christmas, yet our Chimney to tree contract is quite specific in delivery time of midnight on Christmas Eve.
CHANIA Municipal Market, Airport, Public Bus Central Station, Old Harbour, Municipal Tourist Information Desk PLATANIAS Central Square Infokiosk, Botanical Park, Italian Factory Outlet and selected shops in Platanias KISSAMOS Gramvousa and Balos boats, Elafonissi, Falassarna KANDANOS-SELINO Paleochora Info Desk, Sougia, Kandanos SFAKIA Hora Sfakion Infokiosk, Loutro, Agia Roumeli, ANENDYK boats APOKORONAS Georgioupolis, Kavros, Vamos, Kalyves, Vrysses ...and also in more than 100 points throughout Chania Prefecture!
dren are asleep before midnight, rather than waiting with baited camera to upload my arrival to the social media. The list could go on, but I would prefer simply to gain an assur- Ancillary issues ance that such matters will be We could continue on all man- given due consideration and an ner of issues such as the sad appropriate solution found. demise of real toy presents, as being replaced by telephones Yours sincerely and internet technology. Santa Claus. The installation of in room cam- C.E.O. of Santa’s Worldwide Deeras and security devices that I liveries.Inc. have to dodge to avoid being seen. P.S. A Very Merry Christmas to The assurance that young chil- you all!
How friendly is Greece to foreigners? 2017 Expat Insider index ranks 65 countries
If making friends comes a lit-
tle difficult to some people, imagine how hard it would be to try to open up and befriend people in a foreign land. InterNations compiled a list including 65 nations in its 2017 Expat Insider index that ranks each of the countries according to how friendly the people were and Greece came in 24th. Costa Rica, Mexico and Argentina were the friendliest, while Norway, Denmark and Sweden were the least friendly.
Chania In Top 9 European Retirement Destinations
Letters from our readers
Filthy dirty toilets in Almerida and Kalyves Dear Sirs,
Some months ago I brought up the condition of the public toilets in both Almerida and Kalyves. I am sorry to report that nothing has been done since to bring these toilets up to 2017
standards. They are still in a very dirty condition and you could smell these toilets a mile away. What sort of local authority do we have in Vrisses who just leave these toilets in such a condition. At this stage we need a number of non Greeks on the Demos Council who would see to it that the Demos were doing their job.
Chania, Crete, Greece Crete is a Greek island located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is the largest among Greece’s nearly 6,000 islands, at 161 miles long by 37 miles wide. Crete is thought by many to be one of the most beautiful locations in Greece, if not the entire world. The island offers a lot for both tourists and residents, including sunny, sandy beaches and hospitable people.
Most of the tourist areas and cities in Crete have an fo news click abundance of shop r more on http://cre tepost.gr owners who understand and speak English. Even the lesser traveled areas on the island will have English speakers scattered around and if not, the locals are easy to work with and can help you with whatever you need.
It looks as if the present Demos is only a ‘’Talking Shop’’ and nothing else. I am now pleading with the Demos to close these toilets until further notice and get in builders to bring these toilets up to a European standard. The Health and Safety people should inspect the present condition of these toilets. The tourists will arrive back on Crete in March next and we
need to give these tourists a good impression. At present we cannot give visitors a good impression. Shame on the present Demos who promised the earth when elected but have fallen down on the job.
liveandinvestoverseas.com
Yours Faithfully Brian M. Smith Originally from Ireland
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on the ocean; endless opportunities for fun, adventure and enjoying rich, full, varied days out-of-doors; a great deal of English spoken thanks to the longstanding British presence; First World infrastructure; a new retiree residency program that rolls out the welcome mat for foreign pensioners; and easy access both from the United States and to and from all Europe.
news & articles
Retiring in Europe is about launching a new life in a new country, starting over in a unique place with Old World culture. But there’s no one way to determine the best place to retire for every person. That’s why we have identified the best destinations in Europe that are each special for their own reasons. The 13 categories considered represent the most important criteria that retirees must weigh when shopping for the best place to live. The categories are cost of living, crime and safety, English spoken, entertainment, environmental conditions, expat community, health care, infrastructure, recreation, residency options, taxes and real estate affordability and restrictions. Portugal’s Algarve remains the best place in Europe to retire to today. It has everything the wouldbe retiree could want – great weather and lots of sunshine year-round; an established and welcoming expat community; top-notch medical facilities and health care; an affordable cost of living, especially when you consider the quality of life; undervalued and bargain-priced property buys, including right
The Yesterdays of Crete (part 4) The Venetian Rule
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news & articles
erable numbers of wall-paintings by Cretan artists becommissioned in local The Roman rule of Con- ing churches and monasteries. It stantinople under the Byz- is estimated that some 850 antine Empire had been examples still survive in Crete sacked by the Fourth Cru- as painted in the 14th and sade and the island of Crete 15th centuries, this number sold as the spoils of war to being far more in fact, than the Republic of Venice. The from any earlier or later periyear was 1212 AD and the ods in the islands history. Venetian control was des- By the late 15th century, Cretined to last for more than tan artists had established a four centuries. unique and distinct style of The Venetian rule, enthused ‘Icon painting’ this style could the people of Crete to be distinguished by the foldevelop new ideas lowing: through what was - Precise outlines. on r s click re new cretepost.g o m r called a ‘Renaissance’ - The modelling of the / fo http:/ (re-birth of interest in mat- flesh with a dark brown unters of culture). der-paint. A new enthusiasm swept - Tiny yet dense highlights through the island which re- added to the cheeks of the sulted in the creation of a faces. wealth of artistic works. This - Bright colours used in the era was known as the ‘Post– garments. Byzantine Art’ or ‘Cretan - Drapery dealt with in a geoSchool’ period. metrical fashion. The term ‘Cretan School’ de- Then finally the compositions scribes an important artistic were balanced with sharp pool of ‘Icon Painting’ artists. contours, slim silhouettes, linThis new thirst for this spe- ear draperies and restrained cialist form of art became the movements. central force in Greek paint- As a result of their fame as ing during the 15th, 16th and being the finest creators of 17th centuries. Byzantine art, other leading The artists of Crete devel- artists of the time started to oped a particular style of gravitate to Crete in a conpainting under the influences stant flow until the fall of of both Eastern and Western Constantinople in 1453. artistic traditions and move- But then with the fall of the ments, the most famous of Byzantine Empire, Crete, which were the products of which was no longer a part an artistic school style called, of it, continued to flourish as ‘El Greco’. the most important centre of El Greco himself was the art in the Greek world. most successful of the Cretan The skills of Cretan Icon paintartists of the period and like ers were being called upon for many he tried to build himself all manner of commissions to a career in Western Europe at adorn the walls of significant the height of his fame. churches and even monasterAlthough made famous by ies throughout Europe. his creative style, he later Some leading examples of became characterised as the the times are in a number of artist who ultimately left his the twenty monasteries on Byzantine ways the farthest Mount Athos in the North behind in order to achieve East of Greece, to this day this commercial success. community of monks and Yet, there was a substantial monasteries are known as demand for Byzantine icons ‘The Holy Mountain’. in Europe throughout the Mount Athos has been inhabMiddle-Ages, and Crete soon ited since ancient times and is became a dominate source of known for nearly 1,800 years supply. of continuous Christian presAn early example, of still well ence, its long historical moknown work from this era, is nastic traditions are known to the famous icon of the Virgin date back to at least 800 A.D. Mother, which is called ‘Our Today, over 2,000 monks Mother of Perpetual Help’. from Greece and many other Documents from this time countries, including Eastern confirm that this work was al- Orthodox countries such as ready revered in Rome by the Romania, Moldova, Georgia, year of 1499. Bulgaria, Serbia and Russia, This period also saw consid-
by Hobson Tarrant
live an ‘Ascetic’ (abstinence from worldly pleasures) life, isolated from the rest of the world. Mount Athos has been listed as a World Heritage Site since 1988.
career of copying Cretan inscriptions of antique works, some of which were so finely done that they on show in the Oxford Bodleian Library to this day. But not all of Francesco’s works were found to be acceptable to the state and he dabbled in all manner of bizarre studies, such that he was later accused of being a sorcerer. He was charged by the courts with the offence of sorcery, a charge that he did not refute, and he didn’t improve his defence by publishing his works under the title of ‘Pronostico Universale di tutto il mondo’ in1566. The Pronostico Universale di tutto il mondo, included a collection of the prophecies as stated by Nostradamus for the years 1565–1570, which in part drew into question the teachings of the Catholic religion. Francesco also published a special edition of ‘Oracula Leonis’ in 1577, which were a collection of further cryptic prophecies that were attributed to the Byzantine Emperor ‘Leo VI the Wise’. These were most clearly considered blasphemous and he showed his contempt for the Cretan governor, Giacomo Foscarini by making a special dedication of the book to his name. Not surprisingly around 1583, Francesco was tried by the Inquisition on what was described as an unknown charge, for which he was found guilty, no details on his sentence have been found. But then again in 1587, he was charged with apostasy, heresy, and for engaging in the occult. Added to the charge was the accusation that he had caused a torrential rain storm on the island of Crete. Of this he was found guilty and was forced to donate silver crosses to the value of 100 ducats (a significant sum for the time) and he also received a suspended prison sentence. During Francesco’s time as a student he was accused of cutting off someone’s hair for purposes unknown, this was also taken as an early sign of his affinity with sorcery.
Crete during the 15th to 16th centuries Under the rule of the Catholic Venetians the city of Candia (now Heraklion) was reputed to be the best fortified city of the Eastern Mediterranean. Three main forts were constructed for its protection, at Gramvousa, (small island off Chania), Spinalonga( later famed as a leaper colony) and Fortezza, (within the citadel of Rethymnon) and there were also additional smaller fortifications such as the Kazarma fortress at Sitia. In 1492, Jews expelled from Spain began to settle on the island, then from 1574 to 1577, Crete became under the rule of a Venetian called Giacomo Foscarini with the grand title of Proveditor General(overseer), Sindace and Inquistor ( Judge & Jury, loose translation). This was said to be a dark age for the Jews and Greeks, under his rule he put to law that non-Catholics had to pay very high taxes from which he made no allowances, thus he ensured that only Catholics could prosper at all other religions expense. Giacomo Foscarini was a cruel ruler, but no word of complaint could ever be taken to Venice as his brother Marco was ‘The Doge(Duke/Overseer) of Venice’ and he would brook no decent against his brothers venomous ways. In the year 1627, a census recorded that there were 800 Jews that resided in the city of Candia, this represented roughly seven percent of the city’s population at that time. One notable citizen that lived in Candia/Heraklion during Giacomo Foscarini’s rule was a man called Francesco Barozzi. Francesco had been born on Crete and was the son of a Venetian nobleman. He had been sent to study mathematics at the University of Padua (A premier Italian University) and then later inherited a significant estate from his father. After graduation he made a (To follow – part 5 – Ottoman Rule)
24 Hour Guarded Parking
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A Hint of Optimism at the End of the Year National Law for BiodiverAs a naturalist and ecologist The sity sees the adoption of these
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news & articles
I find the manmade troubles of this world difficult to comprehend, especially the hatred of man against man and often it seems that the ‘average man’ does not care about the environment except in his backyard, as his time on the planet is so short. So it is pleasing to hear some good news, even if only a small progress. In the last week of October there was the adoption of three ‘Species Action Plans’ published in the Official State Gazette as three separate Joint Ministerial Deon s click ost.gr w e n e crees; a Greek first. The r ep for mo ttp://cret h Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy together with the Minster of Economic Affairs jointly signed the Decrees. This great development came at the same time as the adoption of the Multi-species Action Plan to Conserve African-Eurasian Vultures adopted at the 12th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CMS (COP12) in Manila. Concentrating on the first news: These much awaited National Action Plans for the Egyptian Vulture and the Lesser White-fronted Goose, as well as the Regional Action Plan for the Lesser Kestrel (region of Thessaly in central Greece) describe in detail the actions required to be taken in Greece in order to safeguard these iconic species over the following fiveyear period. The Hellenic Ornithological Society (HOS)/ BirdLife Greece, with the help of other partners from the respective LIFE+ projects, delivered this successful result after many years of efforts and with close collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Energy. The Lesser White-fronted Goose, the Egyptian Vulture and the Lesser Kestrel are listed in the Red Data Book of Endangered Species of Greece and are ‘protected’ by both national and European legislation as well as by international conventions.
Species Action Plans as essential for the effective protection of endangered species. The contribution of Greece to the international conservation efforts to protect these migratory birds is especially significant due to the country’s importance in the species’ annual life cycle. The Fennoscandian population of the Lesser White-fronted Goose that currently counts only approximately 30 pairs spends 6 months every year staging and wintering in the wetlands of Northern Greece. As for the Lesser Kestrel, Thessaly in central Greece hosts the largest breeding colony in Eastern Europe, while practically the entire Balkan population of the Egyptian Vulture migrates through Greece, where the illegal use of poison baits has decimated the breeding population to only five pairs (regular readers will remember the article earlier in the year about the sniffer dogs on Crete as part of the ‘Neophron Project’, the name taken from the scientific name of that vulture). Everyone at HOS/BirdLife Greece is delighted and very proud to see the fruits of many years of hard work. The three species in question have been regularly featured in the HOS members’ magazine ‘οιωνός’ and the latest issue contained summaries of the latest research. The news is additionally important as this is the first time that Greece has adopted Action Plans for the protection of endangered species. Although Species Action Plans had been drafted in the past, none had been endorsed due to the lack of a concrete legal framework. The HOS/BirdLife Greece is now eager to see the implementation of these three Action Plans, the costs of which have also been secured through state funding. The adoption of these Joint Ministerial Decrees paves the way forward for the establishment of National Action Plans also for other endangered species in Greece.
by David Capon
1. The Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus is the most endangered waterbird in Europe. The Fennoscandian population of the species breeds in the northern part of Scandinavia and winters in the wetlands of Northern Greece. It is classified as Critically Endangered both at a national and at a European level. HOS has been working for the conservation of this species for the last 20 years mainly through the implementation of LIFE projects. 2. The Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus is the most endangered vulture in Europe. During the last 30 years over 95% of the species population in Greece has disappeared and now stands at the brink of extinction with only five pairs left, having already become extinct in many other Balkan countries (Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia and Montenegro). It is classified as Critically Endangered and it is strictly protected by national and European legislation. In 2016 HOS, together with other three project partners (BSPB, WWF Greece and RSPB)*completed the LIFE+ Project “The Return of the Neophron” that implemented innovative actions for the protection of the species, while 2017 has seen the beginning of an even more ambitious LIFE project, with actions along the entire species flyway. 3. The Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni is a small migratory falcon that breeds in colonies in the southern part of Europe and winters in sub-Saharan Africa. The Thessaly Plain in central Greece holds the largest part of the Greek breeding population, with over 5,000 pairs. The Lesser Kestrel nests in the buildings of the villages spread along the Plain and feeds on insects (mainly grasshoppers) on the neighbouring fields. The rapid changes in the rural landscape, mainly due to the intensification of agriculture and the use of insecticides and fertilizers, have resulted in a sharp decline in the population over the past 30 years.
The adoption of the Multi-species Action Plan to Conserve African-Eurasian Vultures is also great news. The copy I have is the 2nd draft and is well over 150 pages long. The summary states that the Plan “aims to provide a comprehensive strategic conservation Action Plan covering the geographic ranges of all 15 migratory Old World vultures and to promote concerted, collaborative and coordinated international actions towards the recover of these populations by 2029”. For this, Greece has a lot to do. It has critical priority (the top level) for Objectives 1.1 to 1.3 - to achieve a significant reduction in mortality of vultures unintentionally caused by toxic substances used in the control and hunting of vertebrates. High priority (the next level) is extensive for Greece and is for the following required actions: Mitigation measures to reduce the impact of lead poisoning on vultures, Substantially reduce vulture mortality caused by electrocutions and collisions linked to energy transmission and generation infrastructure, Ensure or increase availability of poison-free food and water for vultures to sustain populations, Increase breeding success by reducing disturbance (Greece has not been identified for reducing mortality from direct persecution) Increase understanding of basic biological and ecological parameters and threats influencing populations, Populations to be restored where extinct and supplemented where there is a danger of extinction, Environmental and socio-economic values of vultures to be understood and promoted, and Promote enhanced protection in national legislation. Of the European partners, Greece has most to do. So I finish the year with optimistic considerations – I hope that these Plans are just the beginning.
TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS RECIPES from CRETE
On Crete, there are traditional recipes made and served over the Christmas and New Year’s holiday season. You may also enjoy those recipes at other times of year as well, but in December and January, they come together to create a fabulous collection of tastes and textures. Xerotigana For the dough: 6 - 8 cups of all-purpose flour 2/3 cup of freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice 2/3 cup of olive oil 1 cup + 2 tablespoons of water ---------For the syrup: 1 cup of sugar 1 cup of honey 1 cup of water 1 stick of cinnamon ---------For the topping: 1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds 1/4 cup of finely chopped walnuts 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon ---------olive oil for frying
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Christmas recipes from Crete
on r s click re new cretepost.g o m r / fo :/ p t ht
greekfood.about.com
Combine 6 cups of flour and
all remaining dough ingredients in a large bowl or plastic tub and knead well for at least 5 minutes. Add more flour as needed to make a smooth firm dough. Let rest for 30 minutes. While the dough is resting, make the syrup. Bring all syrup ingredients to a boil in a large saucepan and boil for 15 minutes. Turn the heat to the lowest possible setting to keep it hot without boiling. Divide the dough into equalsized pieces, about the size of your fist.
Roll out each piece of dough using the highest (thinnest) setting on a pasta machine or with a floured rolling pin, into a long strip, about 30-36 inches long and 5 inches wide, sprinkling with flour if needed to keep it dry. Cut lengthwise into strips 1 inch wide using a fluted pastry wheel. Each piece of rolled-out dough should make 5 long strips. Loop the long strip of dough loosely around two fingers, then three, then all four, continuing to make a loose spiral shape. Drop into 2 inches of hot oil.
Koulourakia 1/2 cup of lukewarm water 1 envelope of dry yeast (1 3/4 teaspoons) 1 cup of olive oil 3/4 cup of sugar 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice 2 tablespoons of brandy 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon of ground cloves about 6 cups of all purpose flour 1/4 pound (3/4 cup) white untoasted sesame seeds
These
wreath-shaped yeast sesame cookie rings are made once a year in certain areas of the Greek island of Crete: at Christmas. The cookies are made with the traditional Christmas tastes of cinnamon, cloves, and orange, and they contain no dairy prod-
ucts or eggs. Sprinkle yeast into the warm water and stir to dissolve. In a non-metal mixing bowl, stir together olive oil and sugar to combine well. Stir in orange juice, brandy, cinnamon, cloves, and warm water (with yeast).
The dough is so thin that it will puff as it fries and will tend to uncurl. Place the tines of a fork in the center of the spiral and turn to keep the spiral shape. When lightly golden on all sides, remove from the oil with a slotted spoon or spatula. Let excess oil drip off and drain on paper towels. Do not stack the spirals. Place one spiral at a time in the steaming hot syrup (increase heat if necessary) for 5-6 seconds on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a serving plat-
ter. Combine walnuts and cinnamon. Sprinkle with a little of the walnut and cinnamon mixture, followed by the sesame seeds. Layer spirals on top, sprinkling each with the toppings. Tip: How much to sprinkle? At least a good sized pinch on each spiral... of the walnut/cinnamon mixture and of the sesame seeds. Yield: About 60 large spirals Note: The long strips can be cut in half to make smaller spirals, and they can be cut in narrower strips (6 to a rolled out piece of dough) to make more as well.
doesn’t split, adding more flour if needed. The dough will be oily. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a piece of dough the size of an unshelled walnut (about a handful) and squeeze it in your fist to form a dense ball. Roll out into a cigar shape (fatter in the middle, tapered at the ends), about 6 inches long. Form into a ring shape with about a 1/2 inch hole in the center (see photo for guidance) and dip one side in sesame seeds. Place on cookie sheet with the sesame seed side up. Bake on nonstick or very lightly oiled cookie sheets at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, until they turn a nice deep gold color. Cool completely before serving.
Beat for several minutes on medium-high to combine. Slowly beat in 4 cups of flour. When the flour is mixed in, add more until the dough is stiff. Start kneading with hands (in the bowl). Knead for 10-15 minutes, un- Yield: about 4 dozen sesame til the dough is malleable and cookie rings
Melomakarona For the cookies: 1 cup olive oil 1 cup vegetable oil 3/4 cup sugar Zest of one orange 3/4 cup orange juice 1/4 cup brandy 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda Pinch of salt 7 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup walnuts, ground coarsely Ground cinnamon for sprinkling For the syrup: 1 cup honey 1 cup sugar 1 1/2 cups water 1 cinnamon stick 3-4 whole cloves 1-2-inch piece lemon rind 1 tsp. lemon juice sift the flour with the baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add the orange juice and brandy to mixer and mix well. Slowly incorporate the flour cup by cup until the mixture forms a dough that is not too loose but not quite firm either. It will be dense and wet but not sticky. Once the flour is incorporated fully stop mixing. To roll cookies, pinch a portion of dough off about the size of a walnut. Shape in your palms into a smooth oblong shape, almost like a small egg. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Shape and roll cookies until the sheet is filled. Press the tines of a large fork in
a crosshatch pattern in the center of each cookie. This will flatten them slightly in the center. The cookies should resemble lightly flattened ovals when they go in the oven. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 25 – 30 minutes until lightly browned. (The cookies will darken when submerged in syrup.) While the cookies are baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, water, cinnamon, cloves, and lemon rind. Bring the mixture to a boil then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the cinnamon, cloves, and lemon rind and stir in lem-
on juice. Place the ground walnuts in a shallow plate or bowl next to the stove top. When the cookies come out of the oven and while they are still very warm, carefully float the cookies in the syrup and allow the cookies to absorb syrup on both sides. Using a fork or small spatula, remove the cookie from the syrup and place on a platter or plate. Press ground walnuts lightly into the tops of the cookies (syrup will help it adhere) and sprinkle lightly with ground cinnamon. Do not refrigerate Melomakarona as they will harden. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
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one Greek cookie that reminds you of Christmas, this would be it. This is an oil-based cookie recipe that produces moist cake-like cookies flavored with orange and brandy that are bathed in a sweet honey syrup and topped with chopped walnuts. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, using your fingers, combine the orange zest with the sugar – rubbing the grains as if you were playing with sand to release the orange oils into the sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the oil with the orange sugar until well mixed. In a separate bowl,
ews click o n http://cre tepost.gr
Christmas recipes from Crete
If you were pressed to name
for more n
www.e-ktel.com
email: info@e-ktel.gr Kydonias & Parth. Kelaidi, Chania 73100 |Information : 2821 093052 |Storehouse : 28210 97497 Kefalogiannidon Street, Rethymnon |Information: 2831 022212| Storehouse : 2831 022659
Kalitsounia
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Christmas recipes from Crete
on s click re new post.gr o m r o e f /cret http:/
These sweet cheese pastries
For the dough: 1/2 cup of olive oil 1/2 cup of sugar 1/2 cup of unflavored strained yogurt 2 eggs, beaten with a fork 1 teaspoon of baking powder 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour 1/4 cup of brandy ---------FOR THE FILLING 1 2/3 pounds of fresh soft myzithra cheese (or mascarpone or ricotta) 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon 2 tablespoons of sugar 1 egg yolk 1 teaspoon of grated orange peel 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour 1 egg, beaten (for glaze) ---------TOPPINGS ground cinnamon (for baked pastries) confectioner’s sugar or honey (for fried pastries)
out to a thickness of about 1/8th of an inch. Using a 3-4 inch cutter or saucer as a guide, cut out circles. (Alternatively, take a piece of dough the size of an unshelled walnut and roll it out to a circle about 3-4 inches across.) Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture into the center of the circle and spread out close to the edges. Raise the rim of the dough up around the cheese and, with wet fingers, pinch the edges to pull the dough in around the cheese, leaving the center To bake Prepare the dough open so the cheese shows. Preheat the oven to 350°F In a large bowl: Repeat using all the dough and -Whisk the dry ingredients to- (180°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. filling. gether (sugar, baking powder, Place the kalitsounia on the flour). baking sheet and brush lightly -Add the oil, mixing with a Make the pastry with beaten egg to glaze. On a fl oured surface with a rollspoon or hands. ing pin, roll a piece of dough Bake at 350°F (180°C) for ap-
-Stir in the strained yogurt and use a rolled dough instead of eggs and mix with spoon unthin phyllo sheets. Depend- til the dough begins to stiffen, ing on how they are fold- adding the brandy to soften ed (see below), they can be the dough as needed. -Knead the dough in the bowl baked or fried. They are holiday tradition on for approximately 10 minutes the Greek island of Crete, but until smooth, and set aside to eaten at other times as well rest. because they’re so delicious! These call for the fresh soft va- Prepare the filling riety of myzithra (not the aged In a separate bowl, mix the salty type) cheese, and if you cheese, cinnamon, sugar, egg can’t find it, try Italian mascar- yolk, orange peel, and flour together until well blended. pone or ricotta.
proximately 20 minutes until lightly browned (see photo). Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon. Allow to cool on the baking sheet. Kalitsounia will keep well, covered, in the refrigerator. To fry Place a teaspoonful of cheese mix into the center of the circle, fold the circle over into a halfmoon shape. With wet fingers, crimp the edges to close securely. Preheat 1 cup of olive oil over medium heat and fry until golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar or drizzle with honey. Yield: 30-36 pieces
Christopsomo 7g (0.25oz) beer yeast 3-4 cups hot water 2 ½ kilos (5.5lbs) flour used for bread (approx. 20 cups) 3 cups plus 1tsp sugar 1 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 cup fresh orange juice 1 tsp mastic crystals 1 tbsp ground cinnamon 1 tbsp ground coriander 1 tbsp ground fennel seeds 4 walnuts, in their shell 1 large egg, slightly beaten with 2 tbsp water 1 ½ cup sesame seeds mixed with ¼ cup sugar ture. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap and leave to rise, about 2 hours, until doubled in bulk. You can also divide the dough and knead two or four pieces separately, leaving them, if desired in the same oiled bowl in separate ones. Once the dough has risen, punch it down again gently. Depending on whether you’ve kept one big piece or four smaller ones, divide so that there are eight equal balls all together. Shape these into ropes about 20 cm / 8 inches long.
Take two per loaf and shape into a cross, pressing to secure in the middle. Let rest in oiled pans, covered with a kitchen towel, until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour or so. Press a whole walnut into the middle and bake in a preheated oven at 200ºC / 390ºF. Brush with an egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake til golden, about 40 minutes. Cool on a wire rack and serve. Wrapped well in cling film, the breads will last for about a week. Or, wrap well and freeze.
Kourabiedes 1 teaspoon of baking soda 1/3 cup of brandy (or orange juice) 3 egg whites 1 egg yolk 3 cups of unsalted butter (about 6 1/4 sticks), softened 1 1/3 cups + 1 tablespoon of olive oil 1 cup of confectioner’s sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons of cinnamon 1 1/2 pounds of unsalted toasted almonds, chopped in large pieces 12 1/2 cups (approximately) of all-purpose flour (about 3 1/2 pounds) 2 or more pounds of confectioner’s sugar for topping
Kourabiedes are celebration
cookies: they are prepared at Christmas, baptisms, and weddings. This recipe for these shortbread-type cookies is packed with toasted almonds, includes the taste of cinnamon, and calls for the traditional coating of lots of confectioner’s sugar. Dissolve the baking soda in the brandy. Beat the eggs whites and yolk together. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter, oil, and 1 cup of confectioner’s sugar until white and light. Beat in eggs, brandy with baking soda, cinnamon, and
chopped almonds. Stir in flour and use hands to combine. Knead for 20 minutes. The dough will be fairly dry and dense. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a fistful of dough and squeeze 8 times to soften. Shape into balls and flatten slightly to a height of about 1/2 inch and 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter. The dough can also be patted to a height of 1/2 inch and cut with a cookie cutter. Place on ungreased cookie sheets and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until a pale golden color. The cookies may split slightly on top. Allow cookies
to cool completely before topping with confectioner’s sugar. Sprinkle one or more serving platters with confectioner’s sugar. Place one layer of cookies on the platter (carefully, using a spatula) and dust with sugar. (Place sugar in a strainer and tap or shake over the cookies.) Place another layer on top of the first, and sprinkle with the sugar, continuing to no more than three layers on each plate or platter. Be generous with the confectioner’s sugar!
hol, use orange juice instead of brandy. Smaller cookies: A great idea for gifts, kourabiethes can also be made in bite-sized cookies (boukies in Greek, say: bookYES) and given in batches of 6, 12, or other number of your choice. To store: Kourabiedes will keep for several months if stored in airtight containers. Make sure there’s a dusting of powdered sugar on the bottom of the container, then layer cookies as above, each layer with a covering of sugar. Yield: 60-80 cookies Wait one day after baking to Variation: To avoid using alco- cover with an airtight lid.
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bowl dissolve the yeast in 1 cup hot water and add 1 cup flour. Mix well, cover the bowl, allowing the yeast to rise for an hour. Add 1 cup sugar, ½ cup oil, the orange juice and 1 cup flour. Mix with a wooden spoon, add more flour if necessary in order to make a soft dough. Knead until smooth. Let sit covered in a warm place until doubled in bulk, it approx. 2 hours. Using a pestle and mortar grind the mastic crystals with 1 tsp sugar. In another bowl, large enough
to fit all the remaining ingredients, mix the rest of the flour, 2 cups sugar and the spices. Create a well in the middle and place the starter there. Start kneading, working progressively and adding the rest of the water in doses until you get a firm yet smooth dough. Continue kneading, either by hand on a floured surface, or in a mixer with a dough hook (you might need to divide the dough mass to fit inside the mixer bowl). Knead til smooth, about 10-12 minutes. Add flour as needed to achieve the desired silky, nonsticky tex-
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Christmas recipes from Crete
Make the starter: In a large
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How to Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresh Longer According to Derowitsch, a rough rule of thumb is that a typical tree might absorb a quart of water for each inch of its diameter. This means many stands need to be topped off daily. As a last resort, if your tree does end up getting dried out in its stand, you can try drilling some shallow holes at the base and refilling with water.
your Christmas tree alive and fresh by following these basic steps. If you’re getting a real Christmas tree this season, as nearly 29 million households are (according to the National Christmas Tree Association), you’ll want it to last through all the ho-ho-hos and tidings of comfort and joy. Here’s what you should do to make sure your tannenbaum doesn’t become a tannen-bummer. Selection According to Mark Derowitsch, a spokesperson for the Arbor Day Foundation, the best way to ensure the most beautiful Christmas tree is to cut your own from a local farm, or to have one cut for you. “That guarantees freshness, and by going to a local tree farm you know it’s going to be sustainable, so trees will be replanted, and it will be a selective harvest,” Derowitsch told The Daily Green.
If you buy from a local farm you’ll also help preserve local jobs and open space, and you’ll cut down on shipping costs -- not to mention the carbon emissions of cross-country transport. If you have your choice of local farms, choose organic, to help reduce the use of pesticides. Check localharvest.org for a list of local Christmas tree providers across the country. If you are buying a pre-cut tree from a nursery, store or scout troop, ask them how recently they were harvested, and where they came from. If you aren’t impressed with the answers, shop elsewhere. Also inspect them yourself by feeling the needles: they should be flexible, not dry and brittle. The fresher the tree, the longer it will last in your living room. Handling Once you have your tree, it’s important to start taking care of it right away. Tchukki Andersen, a staff ar-
Setting Keep the tree away from direct sunlight, heaters or fans, as these will speed up the drying process. Andersen suggests using a room humidifier, which can help keep the needles fresher borist for the Tree Care Inlonger, as well as reduce fire dustry Association, suggests risk. wrapping it in a plastic tarp Speaking of fire risk, make to protect it for the journey sure any lights you put on the home. tree are in good working orIf you bought a pre-cut tree, der, and are designed for the it’s important to make a cut purpose. across the bottom, removing Newer LED (light emitting dian inch or an inch and a half ode) holiday lights cost only off the bottom. pennies a season to run, so That’s because once it is cut, they are a good value, while the sap in the tree will start they also decrease fire risk besealing over the base, and this cause they stay cooler. will hinder its ability to absorb Also make sure to keep any water. open flames away from the According to Andersen, that tree. process takes about three hours. Cleanup As long as you live reasonably Once you are done with your close, you can ask the dealer tree for the season, don’t just to make the cut for you. toss it on the curb, where it will end up taking landfill Watering space. As soon as possible, get the Recycle it! Most cities now tree in water. have programs that collect Either set it up in its stand or Christmas trees and turn them place it in a bucket if you arinto mulch. en’t going to trim it right away. With good care, a Christmas The base of the cut tree should tree can easily stay fresh for a never dry out, in order to keep month or even longer. the needles fresher. (A recent university study even con- popularmechanics.com firms that watering works.)
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Keep
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plants and gardening
To Feed or Not to Feed? Andersen points out that some people swear by commercial Christmas tree preservatives, which can be mixed into the water in the stand. “Many people have found success in their tree longevity by mixing a tablespoon of corn syrup or sugar in the basin water as a food source for the tree,” she added. (Some people say they use aspirin.) However, the jury is still out on this procedure, with some experts arguing that adding such substances “doesn’t do anything.” Derowitsch said that using additives is “totally unnecessary.”
Lafkas Brewery… coming from the White Mountains! Lafkas Brewery is a new mi-
crobrewery in Chania, making handcrafted, non pasteurized and non filtered beer. In 2011 a Greek boy studying wine making and beverage technology visited Belgium to know more about the beer culture and met there a Belgian girl that would show him the way through the Belgian beer. Five years later they ended up living together in Crete and decided to make their own Belgian-Greek Beer. A fusion of the Belgian knowledge and culture with the fantastic Greek products n o k c and climate, what else s cli .gr re new epost for mo ttp://cret h do you need for an aromatic fresh beer? It was about time in 2017 to finally get out there and launch their own product: Triple Hop Pale Ale. An aromatic, refreshing, unfiltered and unpasteurized handcrafted beer that is nowhere else to be found than in the paradisiacal island of Crete.
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food & wine
Greek gyros delicacy in jeopardy after potential EU kebab ban to counter it, with Green MEPs Gyros, the most popular
fast-food delicacy of Greeks around the globe, may be in danger after an EU Parliament vote to ban phosphate in frozen kebab meat. The European Union’s legislators are moving to ban the phosphates used in the slabs of meat at the heart of kebab; the popular street snack that originated in Turkey and which is today’s Greek gyros. EU lawmakers are citing health concerns based on studies that connected phosphates to cardiovascular disease. But owners of takeout restaurants and industry groups claim the additives are necessary to keep seasoned kebab meat juicy and flavourful, both during transport and on the vertical retail rotisseries where
it is cooked. Interestingly enough, some sausages containing phosphates are permitted to be sold in EU countries and would not be affected by any move involving kebab meat. The kebab issue emerged when the EU’s executive Commission proposed to officially
Most popular Greek dishes… Greek cuisine holds a special rosemary, lemons and olive oil
place in the international culture of flavours for its large variety of quality products, wise combinations and centuries old know how. The islands and mountainous mainland of Greece offers exceptional aromas and products to cook with; it is rather awesome to have aromatic herbs within reach in an everyday basis: oregano, thyme, bay leaves,
enriches the flavour of Greek recipes.Nonetheless, fresh fish, seafood, meat, legumes and fruits, vegetables and dairy products, accompanied by the country’s sublime wines create the unique culinary flavours and aromas you’ll come across in Greece! Either you find yourselves in a fish taverna by the sea side or a restaurant on the mainland,
taking the lead on the opposition. According to more recent health studies, legislators expressed concern that carving out blanket approval for kebab meat could put Europeans at greater risk of heart disease. A rejection by the full Parliament when it convenes in two weeks would send the proposal back to the Commission — and keep the mighty kebab lingering in limbo. Turkish food ventors in Germany, where kebab is a very popular street snack, are up in arms. Greek gyros makers are also watching the debate, which could decide the snack’s future, closely.
authorize the use of phosphates in the lamb, mutton, beef or veal that goes onto a shop spit. Some other meats had previously received such clearance. The proposal ran into trouble in the European Parliament earlier this week when its Greek Reporter Health Committee voted 32-22
one thing is certain; you won’t know what to try out first. However with the large variety of Greek recipes, there are always a couple of dishes that stand out, and might hold a special place in your heart. The all star of the Greek table is undoubtedly the Greek Salad; juicy red tomatoes, mouthwatering cucumber, spicy onion, feta cheese, salty olives, oregano and olive oil compose a dish you should
try out. However, Greek salad has a hard opponent known as ntako which originates from the island of Crete; it consists of a large barley rusk topped with chopped tomatoes, grated myzithra cheese, olives, capers and oregano. An all time classic appetiser is the refreshing and spicy tzatziki sauce, which is eaten plain, smeared on a slice of bread or served as a dip for grilled meats.
into life-defining experiences is one of the thrilling mysteries of life. Greek artist Kostis Grivakis was on a visit to Wakan, a mountain village in South Batinah, when his car broke down. He was in Oman for a short visit, and the breakdown meant that he was going to miss a bit of things on his busy itinerary. But the misfortune soon gave way to events that made him simply fall in love with Oman, its people and their culture, which now finds expression in the form of Omani figures painted on wooden pieces. Everything started from that car breakdown. Little did he know that his distress would turn into bliss when a group of young Omanis lent him a helping hand. “Local people helped me to get back to Muscat. I will never forget that,” he said. Since then, the 46-year-old art
by Niall Finn
To guarantee your money’s worth But if you do so, how on earth Can you get round the simple fact That travel means you interact Your senses soak up from the scene The flavour of the place you’ve been. If not, then anywhere you go Is just a sunny “Truman Show” A plastic, imitation place And it, like you, a waste of space.
Bird brain No day’s disasters are complete Till Donald Trump has had his tweet: “Pearls of wisdom” that must send His PR staffers round the bend. He can’t distinguish lies from fact And hasn’t got an ounce of tact. As egos go, his is immense; Quite unrestrained by common sense. No clue at all to what is meant By acting like a president. But then of course what could be fitter Than such a twit at home on Twitter. ***** Counterfeit travel Some so-called travellers do support The “all inclusive” type resort “All inclusive” means, I think, You don’t pay either food or drink. No worry where you going to eat; No locals that you have to meet; No search for beer, cash in hand Advantages I understand. The flipside is you have to stay Within the complex night and day
***** Facebook A way to show that one exists; A mirror for the narcissists. With least to say, they write the most And use “amazing” every post. Interactions? There are some Reduced to just an upraised thumb To say “I like”, a single flick, While wearing out their selfie stick On photos for their profile page – Once Photoshopped to hide their age. ***** It is not how far you go I started travel on my bum – A nappied slide across the floor:
The pensioner I’ve now become Travels that way more and more. The mode of transport that one chooses May be ferry, bus or train; The one that most my bum abuses Is a Mike O’Leary plane. I’m not complaining, not at all. While sitting down, my mind is free To think of when I learned to crawl And so became explorer me. That urge to travel, deep inside Was boosted by new walking skills Then with my bike I used to ride For hours through the local hills. Began to hitch and passed my test So each year further drove and flew Thinking distant places best Although inside I always knew You travel best at slowest pace With time to look, to feel, to hear; To smell the breeze upon your face; To see a butterfly appear; To talk with those you chance to meet; Carried by your own two feet. ***** Frames of reference “I’ve never travelled!” once I
ed and turned into Omani male and female figures. The Greek national is also an avid environmentalist. “I never buy materials. The only things I buy are the colours. I search for wood at construction sites. There are so much waste of wood there and I turn them into pieces of art,” he explained. His Oman-inspired artworks are a hit with European buyers. He said: “I have sent a lot of things to Oman and I’m getting orders every day. Every day, I get so many messages from people who for more new s cli http:/ /crete ck on want to join my classpost.g r es.” Grivakis said he was planning to hold an exhibition of Omani wooden figures in the Sultanate. “It would be something people have never seen before,” he promised. y-oman.com
heard A statement that is just absurd Because this Earth on which we dwell Is moving – so we are as well. To start with, there’s the planet’s spin Which means the region we are in Will travel every day this way More than 30, 000 “k” A second factor that we need Consider is the average speed The Earth will swing around the Sun Until another orbit’s done. Just simple gravitational power: One hundred thousand “k”s an hour A speed in fact that’s really slow Astronomers, you see, now know Our galaxy’s not standing still And every passing second will Have moved 600 “k” through space So much for “Never left this place!” Facts
Earth spinning 40, 000 km per day at equator The circumference at latitude L is 2*pi*ZP = 2*pi*OP*cos(L) = (equatorial circumference) * cosine of angle(L). So Chania (at 35.5 degrees North) travels 32, 564 km a day = 1,357 kmh Average orbital speed of the earth is 108, 000 kmh Our galaxy is moving at 600 km every second.
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looked dark and disastrous at the moment they happened take on a pleasant note all of a sudden and set you out on a course of events that open up new experiences to make your life more meaningful than before. You wouldn’t have had the chance to enjoy the delights you stumbled upon but for that gloomy incident. The moment of bad luck could come in many ways, and in the case of a Greek artist who landed in Oman for a few days of sight-seeing it came in the form a car breakdown in a remote village. Getting stuck in an unfamiliar place and being in the company of total strangers is a nightmare for any tourist. You lose precious time on your quick schedule, and there is an element of insecurity and helplessness that creep in to make you frustrated.
teacher has fallen in love with the Sultanate and its people, and dedicated his work to promote Omani culture. Grivakis said he was never inspired by a nation like he was when he visited Oman. “In Oman, I felt at home and not as on holiday. The kindness of Omanis is the thing I like the most. How helpful they were to me,” he said. He has visited Nizwa, Sur, Wadi Bani Kharus, Wadi Shab, Jabel Shams, Jabal Akhdar, the Dimaniyat islands and Misfat Al Abriyeen. “For an artist it is the ultimate satisfaction to be inspired so much by something or someone. And for me inspiration came so naturally in Oman. You can tell that looking at my work,” Grivakis added. Now, he is planning to move into Muscat and has already created a Facebook page to advertise his work: discarded wooden pieces that are paint-
culture
Oman Art: From Crete with love! Sometimes events that How such dark moments turn
Do You Have Winter Allergies? If you’re allergic to pollen, by Miltiades Markatos Pneumonologist
you may get a break when the weather gets cold. But if you have indoor allergies such as mold and dust mites, you may notice your allergy symptoms more during winter, when you spend more time inside.
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health & nutrition
Causes When it gets cold and your furnace kicks on, it sends dust, mold spores, and insect parts into the air. They can get into your nose and launch a reaction. Some common indoor allergy triggers are: • Dust mites . These microscopic bugs flourish in mattresses and bedck on li c ding. When their dropr s .g re new epost for mo ttp://cret pings and remains h become airborne, they can cause allergy symptoms. • Mold. This fungus thrives in damp, humid areas such as basements and bathrooms. When mold spores get into the air, they can trigger allergy symptoms. • Animals. Most people are not allergic to animal fur, but rather to a protein found in the pet dander, saliva, and urine. Symptoms Allergy symptoms caused by dust, pollen, or mold include: • Coughing • Dark circles under the eyes • Itchy eyes and nose • Runny nose • Sneezing • Watery eyes How can you tell whether your symptoms are from a cold, the flu, or allergies? A cold usually doesn’t last for more than 10 days. Allergies can linger for weeks or
even months. Also, colds and flu sometimes have a fever and aches and pains, which don’t usually happen with allergies. Diagnosis If your symptoms last more than a week, see your doctor. He may refer you to an allergist, who will ask you about your health history and symptoms. The allergist may do a skin test where he scratches your skin with a tiny bit of an allergen or injects it just under your skin. If the area turns red and itchy, you’re allergic. There’s also a blood test to diagnose some allergies.
shots or under-the-tongue tablets), which expose your body to gradually bigger doses of the allergen. This approach can curb your symptoms for a longer period of time than allergy drugs.
Prevention You can’t prevent an allergy. But if you know you’re allergic, you can take steps to avoid a reaction. Use these tips: • Throw out shower curtains, wallpaper, and carpeting that have mold. • Wash showers and sinks with a solution containing 5% bleach and a little detergent. Treatment • To help control dust mites Treatments for winter allergies and mold, use a dehumidiinclude: fier to keep the humidity in • Antihistamines , which reyour home below 50%. duce sneezing, sniffling, • Use a HEPA air filter to clean and itching dust from the air. • Decongestants , which clear • Wash bedding in hot water mucus to relieve conges(130 F) each week. tion and swelling • Use allergy-proof covers • Immunotherapy (allergy on mattresses, pillows, and
A life changing visit to our pharmacy can make you change the way you see life and put your body and mind in harmony. Have you ever visited a pharmacy to taste health? A different pharmacy in the centre of the old town of Chania is waiting to share with you secrets of well being and longevity. Taste the biolo gical honey, the royal jelly, tea from plants carefully chosen in therapeutic recipes, high concentration and purity juices of pomegranate, cranberry, aloe. Orthomolecular nutrition with suggestions on detox programs and a carefully selected range of supplements, vitamins an gluten free products from all over the world. In the same premises you can find a live homeopathic lab with 6.000 homeopathic remedies in stock and the ability to produce any kind of homeopathic form i.e. pills, granules, solutions etc Evangelia Sakka is the pharmacist in charge who has created that special pharmacy and will be happy to introduce you to that fantastic world but also suggest whatever will be more settable for you. Our philosophy doesn’t stop on food and supplements but we want you to think of your mind and body as well. That’s why we have created next to our pharmacy the Green Care SPA. A SPA that helps to uplift your mind and body with biological face an body treatments, reflexology, reiky, su jok and moxa treatment, Bach flower remedies, homeopathy sessions, bowtech as well as nail therapies. We are waiting for you to restart your life at Daskalogianni 43 - 45, SAKKA Pharmacy www.my-pharmacy.gr / www.greencarespa.gr
comforters. If someone in your household is allergic to pet dander and you really want a pet, the best choices are animals without fur, such as fish. If you already have a cat or dog, don’t let it sleep in your bedroom, and give it a bath at least once a week. Also, during the winter holidays: • Consider an artificial Christmas tree. Live ones can have chemicals and mold on them. • Wash dust off of ornaments before you hang them. • Buy glass or plastic ornaments rather than fabric, which can collect more dust. If you have a pet allergy and you’ll be visiting people who have cats or dogs, take your allergy medication with you and keep up with your immunotherapy before you go. Bring your own pillow with you, too. WebMD
How to DIY a Flocked Christmas Tree With
the holidays nearly here, it’s the perfect time to decorate your home and make it as festive as possible. From ornaments to lights, a Christmas tree is a great way to get the whole family in the spirit and to make your home look fabulous. A flocked Christmas tree is an even better twist on a classic holiday staple, so why not use your DIY skills to create one? Read the full tutorial below and you’ll be on your way to a winter wonderland within the comfort of your own home.
Step 2 - Mix the Flakes Mix your shavings with twothirds cup of liquid cornstarch or white glue. It’s most effective to use a hand or stand mixer to do this. Add in four tablespoons of warm water and continue to mix until well combined.
Step 3 - Add a Tint If desired, now’s when you would tint the mixture with food coloring or even something like glitter glue to give your snow-like substance the How to Flock Your Christmas exact look you’re going for. Tree - Method One: Soap Shavings Step 4 - Continue to Beat The use of soap shavings to Beat the mixture until it turns give your tree a snow-kissed into stiff peaks with a creamy look is a traditional way to go consistency. about it. It’s also economically friendly. Use a gentle soap such Step 5 - Apply the Mixture as the brand Ivory in order to Before beginning the applicakeep the fragrance to a mini- tion process, be sure to take mum. Keep in mind, though, the proper safety precautions. that this method could take Wear a mask, gloves, and safety up to 30 hours to complete, so goggles for this part of the proplan accordingly. cess. Place an old sheet, a tarp, or newspapers on the ground Step 1 - Make Your Shavings and set your tree up outside. Make your shavings by using a Stand on a ladder close to the cheese grater and large bowl. crown of your tree. You should Place the bowl under the grat- work from the top down when er and grate your soap bars applying the substance. Using
a paint brush, scoop a dollop of the mixture and apply to the tip of the tree needles. Refrain from smearing the substance and from brushing the underside of the branches.
outside atop a sheet, tarp, or newspapers. Position a ladder next to the tree.
Step 2 - Spray the Tree Before spraying the tree, ensure you are taking the proper Step 6 - Allow the Flock to Dry safety precautions. Wear Allow the substance to dry for gloves, a mask, and safety 24 hours or more to ensure goggles to protect yourself that it’s completely settled on from the paint. Stand on the the branches. Once dry, you ladder close to the top of the can continue with your deco- tree, again working from the rations. top down. Start by spritzing inner branchHow to Flock Your Christmas es, working your way to those Tree - Method Two: Spray that are outer. If desired, sprinPaint kle glitter onto the branches Another popular and effective when they’re wet with paint to method of flocking a Christmas add more luster to your tree. tree is to use spray paint. While Avoid spraying the underside this method will cost a bit more of branches. to carry out, it provides a quicker turnaround time than the Step 3 - Let the Tree Dry soap method above. It will take Let your tree dry for at least between three and four hours eight hours, but up to 24 deto actually perform and require pending on its size and how only eight hours of drying time. thickly layered the paint was Keep in mind that this is not a sprayed onto its branches. good method to use if you plan on using lights on your tree, as Creating your own flocked holit could pose a safety hazard. iday tree is as simple as that, For this project, you’ll need five and then it’ll be yours to enjoy or six cans of white spray paint, for years to come if you use an depending on the size of your artificial tree. tree. A snow-kissed tree is the perfect way to enjoy a white Step 1 - Set Up Your Tree Christmas without having to Similar to what was done in the actually brave the chilly temlast method, set up your tree peratures outside!
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until they are all adequately flaked. You will need two cups of flakes.
do it yourself
What’s a Flocked Christmas Tree? You may be asking yourself, “What is a flocked Christmas tree?” You’ve likely seen them many times. These trees look like they’re covered in snow or frosted. Tree flocking dates back to the 1800s, when those going for this look used substances like flour or cotton to get the desired aesthetic. The look really caught on in the late 1950s and 1960s. If you’ve ever pined for a white Christmas, a flocked tree is the perfect way to get just that—only inside four walls.
Winter Care Tips For Your Dog with us. The happiest Does your dog love the win- doors dogs are taken out frequently for ter or would he rather cuddle up on the couch under a cozy blanket? Either way, you should be prepared to protect him when he ventures out into the elements. Ways to Protect Your Dog in Winter 1. Let’s talk temperature! Some dog breeds are blessed with thick fur that keeps them warm naturally, even in very cold temperatures, but dogs with thin coats may need to wear a sweater or coat when out for winter walks. A good coat should reach from the neck to the base of the tail and also protect the belly. But remember that coats will not prevent frostbite on the ears, feet or tail… so even with a cozy coat, don’t keep your short n o k haired dog out too long in c r s cli re new cretepost.g o m r o / freezing temperatures. f http:/ 2. Go outside when the sun shines If your dog feels the cold, try to walk him in the late morning or early afternoon hours when temperatures are a little warmer, and avoid early morning or late evening walks. Spend time playing outdoors while it’s sunny; sunshine brings the added benefit of providing both you and your pet with vitamin D. Play fetch with toys, not sticks, which can cause choking and other injuries. So, if your dog likes to chew and chase, pack a Frisbee, ball or other safe toy and play together in the sun.
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3. Indoor pets are happiest Our family pets need to be in-
walks and exercise but live inside the rest of the time. Don’t leave pets outdoors alone when the temperature drops. A good rule of thumb is to go out with them and when you’re ready to come in, they probably will be too. 4. Cozy bedding In addition to limiting your dog’s time outdoors on cold days, don’t let your pooch sleep on a cold floor in winter. Choosing the right bedding is vital to ensure your dog stays warm. Warm blankets can create a snug environment; raised beds can keep your dog off cold tiles or concrete, and heated pet beds can help keep the stiffness out of aging joints. Place your dog’s bed in a warm spot away from drafts, cold tile or uncarpeted floors, preferably in a favorite spot where he sleeps every day so that the area doesn’t feel unfamiliar. 5. Protect your dog from heaters Dogs will often seek heat during cold winter weather by snuggling too close to heating sources. Avoid space heaters and install baseboard radiator covers to avoid your pet getting burned. Fireplaces also pose a major threat so please make sure you have a pet proof system to keep your heat-seeking pal out of harm’s way! 6. Moisturize Dry and cold weather can do a number on your pet’s skin. Help prevent dry, flaky skin by adding a skin and coat supplement to his food. Coconut and fish oils
are easy foods that can help keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy. If you find your pet’s paws, ears or tail are dry or cracking, you can also apply coconut oil topically as needed. 7. No overfeeding please! Although dogs may need an extra layer in winter, make sure it comes from a coat and not a layer of fat. Unless your dog lives outdoors during the winter, he usually won’t need any additional calories during the winter chill. Cold temperatures may even bring on lazy behavior and the need for fewer calories. Be attentive to your dog’s activity level and adjust his calories accordingly. A high quality, whole foods, preferably raw meat based diet will help ensure a healthy coat and good energy for the cold winter months. 8. Keep your dog hydrated Dogs can dehydrate just as quickly in winter as summer. Although many dogs eat snow, it’s not an adequate substitute for fresh water. If your dog spends time outdoors in your yard, make sure he has access to a water bowl, check it often and break ice that forms on top. 9. Groom your dog Your dog needs a clean, wellgroomed coat to keep him properly insulated. This is especially important if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors. After bathing, dry your dog thoroughly, especially before allowing him outside 10. Paw care is a must Just as we tend to develop foot
cracks in winter, dogs can also suffer from cracked pads. If your dog has furry feet, trim the hair that grows between his pads to prevent ice buildup between the pads. Winter salt on city sidewalks can also burn your dog’s pads and is toxic, so after walks around the neighborhood, rinse or wipe your dog’s paws to remove any salt – you don’t want him licking it off. If your dog shows signs of discomfort when walking outside on frozen or salted surfaces, consider using dog booties to protect his paws 11. Snow removal Snow can be a lot of fun but also dangerous for your dog. Snow piled near fences offers your dog escape routes that even well trained dogs often can’t resist. When you clear snow in your yard, pile it away from fences to prevent your dog from climbing over. Snow and ice often accumulate on rooftops and if the sun is out or as temperatures rise, this accumulation can slide and injure your dog. If you can’t clear the snow from the roof, keep your dog away from the roof overhang to prevent injury. 12. Watch where your dog plays Although your dog is likely to be having a great time outdoors, take frequent indoor breaks for water and warming and don’t ever stay out too long. If you’re walking or playing in unfamiliar areas, keep your dog close. It’s easy for him to venture onto unsafe surfaces such as frozen ponds or lakes. These may be covered in snow and not easily visible.