FIRST January 2017

ORGANIC FARMING INTERVIEW WITH LADYBIRD FARM. MAGIC POST-PREGNANCY SOUP AND POSTCHRISTMAS COMFORT FOOD RECIPES. TRAVEL TO SOUTH AFRICA. DEALING WITH A NEW YEAR WITH LIFE COACH CLAIRE BUGELLI. TRIBUTE TO THE FOUNDER OF THE ICONIC BRAND CHLOÉ, GABRIELLE AGHION. INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR OF NEW MALTESE CHILDREN’S BOOK. A WORD OR TWO FROM AUTHOR OF WHERE’S MY BROTHER? VICTOR CALLEJA. FASHION. CHILDREN’S FASHION. COMPETITIONS

JANUARY 2017

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Photograph by Alan Carville

a clean slate A new year comes with all those broken promises that you made to yourself the year before. I think the resolution this year is to not make any, or should I say not so many. Life coach Claire Bugelli has been discussing just this with a client of hers who hates the whole concept of New Year celebrations, but, as Claire explains, it is a chance to wipe the slate clean and start afresh.

A fresh start could instigate a ‘healthier you’ or, for those who have been too hard on themselves in the pantry, perhaps a less strict you.

Nicole Pisani and Dusha Lia have cooked up a storm and have shared some comforting meals (pages 41, 42 and 43), and we give you some advice on how to live more healthily on a daily basis (pages 38 and 39). Ruth Galea Pace from Forever Living continues her quest to inspire others to lose the weight they don't need – as she did (page 10), and Albert Delia meets Reuben Cini, a city slicker who has a passion for growing organic produce on his farm in Malta. Dini Martinez goes further afield to find the best three South African escapes (pages 16 to 20).

Don’t be too hard on yourself: enjoy your day, your evening, your year. And we see you again just before Valentine’s Day, to spread the love.

EDITOR LILY AGIUS LAGIUS@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT ADVERTISING & ADVERT PLACEMENTS CLAIRE BONDIN GAFA CGAFA@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT DESIGNER CONRAD BONDIN CBONDIN@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT PRODUCTION MANAGER ANDRE CAMILLERI ACAMILLERI@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT ARTWORK COORDINATOR CHRISTINE SPITERI CMIFSUD@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT CONTRIBUTORS ALBERT DELIA, ANTOINETTE BORG, CLAIRE BUGELLI, CORYSE BORG, DINI MARTINEZ, DORIANNE MAMO, DUSHA LIA, JULIA B, KENNETH ZAMMIT TABONA, LINE YOUNG PRETERI, MATTHEW B SPITERI, NICOLE PISANI, REUBEN CINI, ROBERT AGIUS, RUTH GALEA PACE, TALITHA DIMECH, VICTOR CALLEJA. PUBLISHER STANDARD PUBLICATIONS, STANDARD HOUSE, BIRKIKARA HILL, ST JULIAN’S. TEL: 00356-2134-5888 PRINTER PRINT IT E-MAIL FIRST@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT ONLINE WWW.INDEPENDENT.COM.MT FACEBOOK FIRSTMAGAZINE COVER DETAILS Dress, ¤60, blazer, ¤65, RIVER ISLAND. Coeur de lion necklace, ¤140, Coeur de lion bracelet, ¤88, PORTO. FIRST IS PUBLISHED EVERY MONTH AS A COMPLIMENTARY MAGAZINE WITH THE MALTA INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY AND IS NOT TO BE SOLD SEPARATELY.

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26

Inside

With weight consultant RUTH GALEA PACE

14 FASHION ICON

44 DEAR CLAIRE

New Year’s blues

46 NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK INTERVIEW

Tribute to Gabrielle Aghion, the founder of Chloé

Interview with Antoinette Borg, author of the new children’s book Fittixni

16 THREE GREEN SOUTH AFRICAN JEWELS

49 COMMUTING: THE GREEN WAY

22 BACK DOWN TO EARTH

50 COMPETITIONS

Dini Martinez goes to Malawi, Zambia and Namibia Toning down the dress palette

24 PRETTY LITTLE THINGS

For those big personalities

26 DOWN THE GARDEN PATH WE GO This issue’s fashion shoot

The Planning Authority’s plan to reduce employee dependence on cars Be in with a chance to win some special gifts

53 LAST WORD

With, author Victor Calleja,whose latest book is Where’s my Brother?

32 THE BAROQUE FESTIVAL

41

Kenneth Zammit Tabona during a busy week of Baroque

34 FROM FIELD TO FORK

Albert Delia meets advocate of organic produce Reuben Cini

41 MAGIC SOUP

Originally a post-pregnancy recipe, adapted by Nicole Pisani

42 COMFORT FOOD

Dress, ¤60, blazer, ¤65, RIVER ISLAND. Coeur de lion necklace, ¤140, Coeur de lion bracelet, ¤88, PORTO.

10 FIRST WORD

Post-Christmas comfort food recipes

by Baltazar Bistro

10

8

34

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Double Bill book at www.madc.com.mt or email: bookingS@madc.com.mt or SMS 77776232

first word

Ruth Galea Pace was diagnosed with diabetes 30 years ago. She started taking her health seriously 7 years ago when it was affecting the quality of her life, losing many stones in weight in the process. Today Ruth continues to promote weight loss and give nutritional advice, as an international business developer with Forever Living.

My most recent find is Whiterocks restaurant.

The website I will often browse is Foreverliving.com. I work as an independent manager business owner and always want to refresh my knowledge about my products. I do presentations and teach people how to be like me.

The most beautiful building in the world is the

Ggantija temples in Gozo, which are also among the oldest in the world

The most spectacular city in the world is Las Vegas – the city that never sleeps.

The objects I would never part with are my wedding ring, my father-in-law’s ring and my mother’s bracelet. They represent family, life and love.

My favourite fashion item are shoes – I love all shapes, styles and colours!

An indulgence I would never give up is Sicilian Cannoli.

I love the taste and texture of sweet ricotta!

The thing you will always find in my fridge is Aloe Vera.

Photo by Jonathan Borg Hair by John at Hairdesign Make-up by Daniela Ebejer from Melita Parmacy

My favourite space in my house is the sofa! It’s the only place I can really relax after my busy day.

The most inspirational person in my life is Osho; he says the truth about life, things that touch me and my life.

The most unforgettable place I ve visited is the Mountains of Madonna di Campiglio, a village and ski resort in northerneast Italy, with beautiful scenery and the first time I ever saw snow.

My sport of choice is swimming: I can really let loose and

If I could be somewhere in a flash it would have to be to

clear my mind.

The last place I visited was Florence with family: it’s really

Canada to see the Niagra Falls – it is a dream of mine.

beautiful – full of art and history.

The latest thing I have added to my wardrobe is a Chanel Speedy handbag and scarf I have been wanting for a long time.

and I make mistakes.

The best gift I have received recently was my father-in-law’s

I would like to learn how to be a

ring engraved with my initials; it’s very special because we had a connection.

The last song I listened to was Human by Rag‘n’Bone Man, which reminds me that I’m only human, I have my limits 10

better public speaker because it would help in my work.

The book I am reading is Light is the New Black. It shows you that you should trust your talent and self and do what you really love in life.

One thing I never get round to doing and wish to is cycling – an old hobby that I used to love.

If had no choice but to change my line of work I would love to be a lawyer and defend abused housewives.

My most luxurious habit is shopping, shopping, shopping – it’s my stress reliever!

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Vanessa PARADIS, CHANEL Ambassador, wore a black satin embroidered coat, look 63, from the Paris-Moscou 2009/10 collection. CHANEL accessories and shoes.

CHANEL Fine Jewelry "Lion Vénitien" earrings in 18K yellow gold and diamonds. CHANEL Make-up.

American actress Jada PINKETT SMITH wore a black silk and lace dress, look 58, from the Paris in Rome 2015/16 collection. CHANEL shoes and bag.

Géraldine CHAPLIN wore a black wool dress with a silver scarf, look 82, from the Fall-Winter 2016/17 Ready-toWear collection. CHANEL accessories, shoes and bag.

CHANEL Paris Cosmopolite 2016/17 Show

French actress Mathilde WARNIER wore red and white striped trousers, look 30, from the Cruise 2016/17 collection and a navy blue cashmere sweater. CHANEL accessories, shoes and bag.

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French actress Ludivine SAGNIER wore a black leather dress, look 59, from the Fall-Winter 2016/17 Ready-to-Wear collection with a multicoloured tweed coat. CHANEL accessories, bag and shoes.

Amber VALLETTA wore a grey tweed jacket from the SpringSummer 2017 Act 1 Ready-to-wear collection and black leather trousers. CHANEL shoes and bag.

Alma JODOROWSKY, CHANEL Ambassador, wore a black tweed jumpsuit and coat, look 6, from the Fall-Winter 2016/17 Haute Couture collection. CHANEL shoes.

CHANEL Fine Jewelry "Etoile Filante" pendant in 18K white gold and diamonds and "Comète Spirale" earrings in 18K white gold and diamonds.

Anna MOUGLALIS,

CHANEL Ambassador, wore a grey tweed redingote embroidered with jewels, with a red silk skirt, look 19, from the Fall-Winter 2016/17 Haute Couture collection. CHANEL bag. CHANEL Makeup.

Australian actress Bella HEATHCOTE wore a black corseted tunic, look 36, from the Haute Couture Fall-Winter 2016/17 collection. CHANEL shoes. CHANEL Fine Jewelry "Coco Crush" rings in 18K white, yellow and beige gold and "Plume Poire" earrings in 18K white gold and diamonds. CHANEL Makeup.

Fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld presented Chanel’s Paris Cosmopolite 2016/17 Métiers d’Art Collection at the Ritz Paris Hotel on December 6th, 2016. Supermodels such as Cara Delevingne, Catherine McNeil, Fei Fei Sun, Georgia May Jagger, Lindsey Wixson, and Mariacarla Boscono were joined on the runway by Pharrell Williams and Lily Rose Depp. In charge of beauty were hair stylist Sam McKnight, and makeup artist Tom Pecheux.

Caroline de MAIGRET, CHANEL Ambassador, wore a blue tweed skirt, look 9, from the Spring-Summer 2016 Haute Couture collection with a blue cashmere sweater. CHANEL accessories and shoes. CHANEL Fine Jewelry "Lion Talisman" earrings in 18K yellow gold, diamonds and multicoloured cultured pearls.

English actress Ella PURNELL wore a blue embroidered tweed dress, look29, from the Haute Couture Fall-Winter 2016/17 collection. CHANEL shoes and bag. Chanel Watches: "J12 XS" watch in steel, diamonds, black ceramic and black patent calfskin cuff. CHANEL Makeup.

French actress & singer Cécile CASSEL wore a light pink lace and silk dress from the Spring-Summer 2017 Ready-to-Wear collection. CHANEL accessories, bag and shoes.

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Gabrielle Aghion née Hanoka

CHLOÉ THE INVENTOR OF PRÊT-À-PORTER

By Line Young Peteri

T

he Chloé brand was founded by Egypt-born designer Gabrielle Aghion née Hanoka. She and her husband, Raymond, met when they were both seven-year-olds at elementary school and were married when they were 19. Raymond, although coming from a wealthy family, stirred up political waves that would later drive him into political exile, so in 1945 the couple moved to Paris where they kept close ties with political and intellectual circles.

Gaby launched Chloé in 1952: designing softer, more feminine, ‘body-conscious’ clothes from fine fabrics, which she called ‘luxury prêt-à-porter’ (ready-to-wear). Unique for their time, these were beautifully made clothes available off-the-rack as a contrast to the more formal wear for the elite – haute couture. The first fashion show was in 1954 in the Café de Flore, the epicentre of the young intellectual Parisians of the 1940s and 1950s.

Gaby hired Karl Lagerfeld early on in his career and Chloé’ became one of the symbolic brands of the 1970s. Included among its customers were Jackie Kennedy, Brigitte Bardot, Maria Callas and Grace Kelly and since then other emerging fashion designers such as Stella McCartney and Phoebe Philo have added their influence and mark on the Chloé brand. Later on, American actress, former model, fashion designer, style icon and IT girl Chloë Sevigny became a spokeswoman for the company.

The three most iconic pieces from Chloé are the Paddington and Paraty bags and the Susana boots, which are still some of the most copied pieces of High Street brands.

The house of Chloé’s place in history has already been assured by its ability to allow designers to flourish under its auspices. Lagerfeld, Philo and McCartney all proffered their ideals of femininity and sophistication in designs for Chloé, keeping the house contemporary while still maintaining its classic style. www.lineyoung.com https://www.instagram.com/lineyoung/ 14

2017 T E AT RU M A N O E L M A LTA 12th January – 7.30pm – The Trumpet Shall Sound – Concerto De’ Cavalieri – Ta Ġieżu Church 13th January – 7.30pm – Charpentier-Te Deum / Du Mont-Motets – Ensemble Correspondances – St. John’s Co-Cathedral 14th January – 10.30am, 4.30pm – 15th January – 6:00pm – Lully-Atys en Folie A ‘Parodie’ by Jean-Philippe Desrousseaux Centre Musique Baroque de Versailles – Teatru Manoel 14th January – 7.30pm – Cantatas for the Soul – Dunedin Consort – Ta Ġieżu Church 15th January – 12.30pm – Bach and the Spirit of The Dance – John Irving – harpsichord – Bibliotheca (National Library) 16th January – 7.30pm – The Phoenix Nest – The Hathor Consort – The Salon (National Museum of Archaeology) 17th January – 7.30pm – Pergolesi – La Serva Padrona Associazione Musicale Carissimi – Teatru Manoel 18th January – 12.30pm – Magical Viola da Gamba – Suites by Carl Friedrich Abel, Reiko Ichise – St Nicholas Church (All Souls) 18th January – 7.30pm – The Rival Queens – Simone Kermes & Vivica Genaux with Cappella Gabetta – Conducted by Andrés Gabetta – Teatru Manoel 19th January – 7.30pm – From Stradivarius to Bach – Bach Partitas for Solo Violin Nicholas Dautricourt – St Nicholas Church (All Souls) 20th January – 7.30pm – A Golden Age – Music by Lotti, Melgas, Scarlatti, Rebelo & Caldara The Sixteen – St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral 21st January - 12.30pm – Valletta International Baroque Ensemble in Concert Music by Telemann, Charpentier, Mikiel Ang. Vella and works found at the Mdina Cathedral Archives – St. Augustine’s Church 21st January – 7.30pm – Tenebrae - Lamentations and Responses

by Jan Dismas Zelenka, Le Banquet Celeste, Damien Guillon – countertenor – Ta Ġieżu Church 22nd January – 12.30pm – Bach and the Russians Music by Bach, Schnittke, Silvestrov and Stravinsky, Lucia Micallef - piano and Nicholas Dautricourt - violin – Teatru Manoel 22nd January – 5.30pm – Boccherini – La Musica Notturna Nelle Strade Di Madrid Accademia Ottoboni – The Salon – (Museum of Archaeology) 23rd January – 5.30pm, 7.30pm – Stradella – San Giovanni Battista Haymarket Opera Company – The Oratory – St. John’s Co-Cathedral 24th January – 12.30pm – The Harmonious Blacksmith Music by Handel, Bach, Rameau & Duphly, Jory Vinikour – harpsichord – Bibliotheca (The National Library) 24th January – 7.30pm – Chorales in Counterpoint Baroque piano transcriptions by Bach, Franck and Busoni, Charlene Farrugia & Nazareno Ferrugio – Teatru Manoel 25th January – 7.30pm – Heaven’s Sweetness – Bach’s Festival Cantatas from Leipzig, European Union Baroque Orchestra – Jesuits’ Church 26th January – 7.30pm – Inspired by Baroque Music by Pärt, Respighi, Pace, Piazzolla, Malta Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Michelle Castelletti – Teatru Manoel 27th January – 12.30pm – Bach Lute Suites – Transcriptions for Guitar, Joanna Beisteiner – Bibliotheca (The National Library) 27th January – 7.30pm – A Piacere - Music by Sanz, Alqhai, Hume, Sainte-Colombe, Marais, Rameau, Accademia del Piacere – Directed by Fahmi Alqhai – The Salon – (Museum of Archaeology) 28th January – 12.30pm – Purcell’s Operatic Arias - Claire Debono – Soprano and Ensemble Les Ambassadeurs.

Directed by Alexis Kossenko – St. Paul’s Cathedral 28th January – 7.30pm – Music Fit for a King - Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks and Water Music.

Valletta International Baroque Ensemble – Teatru Manoel

www.vallettabaroquefestival.com.mt www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

For all bookings and further information: T: +356 2124 6389 | bookings@teatrumanoel.com.mt

Three green

AFRIC

16

n jewels in travelling

CA’S SOUTH

By Dini Martinez

I

s 2017 the year for tackling your bucket list? Africa – photography heaven – features on many: mind-blowing safaris, expansive landscapes, traditional culture, formidable wildlife and wilderness beyond belief. Throw in the feeling of being in a place that has not changed for centuries, and sometimes millennia, and you get some of the most inspiring places on the

planet.

Malawi — full of uniquely African life above and below water

Malawi is probably one of Africa’s best kept travel secrets. This means that, whether you fly into Lilongwe or catch a train, bus or boat in from Mozambique, it’s most likely you won’t have to share its precious lake, diverse mountain ranges, wildlife-busting safaris and traditional fishing villages with masses of other tourists. Often dubbed ‘the Warm Heart of Africa’, the people are lovely and service-oriented, and the whole country is relatively well-organised, developed and clean.

Lake Malawi, the third largest lake in Africa, runs along most of Malawi’s eastern border. This UNESCO Heritage Site has more biodiversity and tropical fish than any other lake in the world. Not surprisingly the diving is extraordinary and, on land, many beach towns along the shore are characterised by laidback vibes, plenty of reggae music and pretty much any water sport activity you could wish for.

Heading towards the source of the fresh water, Nyika Plateau National Park is one of the most unusual parks in Africa. Its plateau is cut by numerous rivers that reach Lake Malawi by way of waterfalls off the eastern edge of the mountains.

The eastern border of the plateau forms the wall of the Great Rift Valley, which was the central focus of the BBC’s renowned documentary series Africa’s Wild Heart. Great domes of hills have gentle slopes, making Nyika perfect for both trekking and mountain biking as well as exploration by Jeep. Be prepared for plenty of antelope, zebra, leopards and more.

If you want to get more involved with the local community and to give your holidays an altruistic touch, check out the Book Bus (www.thebookbus.org) which still offers a few volunteer opportunities for their next tour.

Zambia — Victoria Falls and the real safari adventure

Across the border, Zambia is making a name for itself as a must-do safari destination. This large, landlocked country in southern Africa has natural attractions that rival any continental competitor.

The sheer size and remoteness of Zambia’s vast network of national parks mean no safari jeep traffic jams, very personal service and an opportunity to meet massive mammals eye-to-eye.

You can hoof it into the bush with a lion-speckled walking safari, canoe among hippos and crocodiles and discover the unforgettable birds of Southern Africa in abundance as the skies are full of them.

One third of the country is made up of national parks. Luckily, Zambia’s government has been active in conservation and wildlife protection and responsible tourism can also play a major role in supporting this commendable development.

Despite its buzzing and rapidly modernising centre, the country’s history and traditions remain very much alive. In fact, a highlight of any trip to Zambia is a visit to any of the many traditional festivals held throughout the country. »

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Previous page and above: Lake Malawi Right: Mozambique Below: The 5-star Royal Livingstone Hotel just upstream from the falls over the Zambezi River

«However, one of the main reasons most visitors are attracted to this safe-to-travel place are the majestic Victoria Falls – also called Mosi-oa-Tunya, or ‘The Cloud That Thunders’. The 1.5km wide, 108 metredeep cascade is neither the tallest nor the widest waterfall in the world. However, with a once recorded volume of flow double that of Niagara Falls, it is classified as the largest sheet of water flowing over a rock face. It is fascinating enough on any day, but if you happen to be there on a full moon, check out the Lunar Rainbow: sometimes the moonlight is bright enough to cause a rainbow to appear over the spray.

If over-priced cocktails don’t upset your travel budget, stop at the riverside bar of the 5-star Royal Livingstone Hotel just upstream from the Falls to watch the sunset over the Zambezi River whilst hippopotami frolic in the water beneath you and the spray of the falls comes up over the horizon like smoke from a forest fire.

Sticking to a route of low crime rate and high environmentalism, why not continue south-west along the Caprivi Strip, a narrow strip of land that leads into Namibia? »

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From the top: Sossusvlei, Namibia; Namibia; Victoria Falls, Zambia; Etosha National Park, Namibia

«Namibia — a magical, scarcely populated, barren, sun-kissed vastness Namibia is more than twice the size of Germany, but with just over two million people, it is one of the least densely populated countries on the planet. A fellow travel writer who once flew from south to north across the whole country in a small private plane says: “Every time the pilot and I saw some sign of human life we would shout out and point – it was that rare!”

With no pressure on land, no competition and no angry demands for the sequestration of property, Namibia is not the densely over-crowded place many people imagine Africa to be. Its towns are clean, tidy and peaceable. More than four cars in procession basically make up a traffic jam. The economy, with a big focus on sea diamonds and uranium, is relatively prosperous, and politics in this multi-party democracy fairly stable. Admirably, on achieving independence in 1990, Namibia became one of the first nations in the world to include environmental protection in its Constitution.

With all that vastness and not many people to fill the endless space on and between dried-out riverbeds, rolling savannas and towering mounds of sandy dunes, it is also heart-stoppingly beautiful. Whether you venture to the Namib Desert, with its red sand and gigantic, designer-scaped dunes, or trek across the Kalahari, or sit by the watering-holes in Etosha National Park or the Fish River Canyon, or battle against the wind on the immense sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast, you will see some of the most magnificent sights on the entire African continent.

Friends who recently sailed along Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, provisioned on sausages and Sauerkraut before their Atlantic crossing in what seemed like little Germany stuck in the dessert. They marvelled at the striking contrast between the apparently barren desert, and the abundance of creatures thriving alongside in the cold, nutrient-rich waters. They sighted plenty of curious fur seals, visiting albatrosses, sociable dusky dolphins, flocks of pink flamingos and birds beyond description and belief.

Just like the clicks heard in some of the Khoisan languages of the Namibian people, the whole place presents an enigma to most, and pure magic to the few who venture out to experience this desolate, barren, sun-kissed land first hand.

It is, in fact, rare to meet anyone who has travelled to these places and not been affected well and beyond their actual trip.

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Down in the meadow

Deep in the brook, Catfish are waiting for the hook.

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ON A HIGH NOTE

“I don’t know if I’m coming or going!” These are the first words – spoken in jest – of possibly one of the busiest men in the Maltese Islands right now, when Coryse Borg manages to corner Kenneth Zammit Tabona for a quick interview right in the middle of the 2017 Valletta International Baroque Festival. First held in 2013, the festival has gone from strength to strength, culminating in a spectacle for all the senses – especially the aural and visual ones of course – this year.

A

lthough he has been on the music and theatre scene for myriad years, the name and persona of Kenneth Zammit Tabona has now become synonymous with the Valletta International Baroque Festival.

Since its inception, for Mr Zammit Tabona this festival has been an absorbing passion – a celebration of Valletta as a magnificent setting for the presentation of Baroque music, and during the festival the city reverberates with music from the period when it was built.

“We tend to take Valletta for granted but it is so special. It has beautiful venues that lend themselves to this sort of thing,” he says. “We are so fortunate to have an 18th-century gem of a theatre surrounded by so many churches – all within walking distance, as well as the Grand Master’s Palace and other splendid venues such as the Archaeology Museum. The location is perfect.”

Mr Zammit Tabone cites the very first item on this year’s programme – excerpts from the works of Corelli, Vivaldi and Handel, among others, by the Concerto de’ Cavalier’ at the Ta’ Giezu Church on 12 January – as the perfect example of a flawless and seamless marriage between music and venue. “Most Baroque music is religious and the best places in which to perform it is churches,” he says. “The beauty of the church enhances the music and vice versa.”

Currently in its fifth year, the festival has consistently

brought to our shores top-class acts and performers. As a member of the Board of Directors of the Réseau Européen De Musique Ancienne – REMA (the European Early Music Network) for the past two years, Mr Zammit Tabona has been able to make many contacts and exchange knowledge and information with experts in the field all over Europe.

“The festival has become very well-known – far more well-known than I ever envisaged,” he says with a smile.

“I never imagined it would have this sort of success. Of the many festivals in Europe, we are unique because of the venues we can offer. Every year, I am contacted by many, many people wishing to participate – somewhere in the region of a thousand applications – and I choose 20.”

Performances still to take place include Inspired by Baroque with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra

WE TEND TO TAKE VALLETTA FOR GRANTED BUT IT IS SO SPECIAL. IT HAS BEAUTIFUL VENUES THAT LEND THEMSELVES TO THIS SORT OF THING 32

conducted by Michelle Castelletti at the Manoel Theatre on 26 January at 7.30pm, as well as Purcell’s Operatic Arias at St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral with Les Ambassadeurs and soprano Claire Debono, on 28 January at 12.30pm.

Mr Zammit Tabona says that he is particularly looking forward to the final item on this year’s programme. Entitled Fit for a King, it will see the

resident ensemble of the Valletta International Baroque Festival, which consists of predominantly Maltese musicians, guided by foreign Baroque specialists, performing two of Handel’s most famous works: The Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks at the Manoel Theatre on 28 January at 7.30 pm.

There is an event being held today at 3pm that is ideal for children and families – a treasure hunt all around

BAROQUE MUSIC DOES NOT BELONG IN A MUSEUM. IT IS SOMETHING THAT IS ALIVE; NOT SOMETHING TO BE CLOSED IN A VETRINA

the Manoel Theatre to explore everything Baroque, for families with children aged between seven and 13 or groups of children accompanied by at least one adult.

“I take the same attitude to the festival as I do to the theatre: it is a living thing, it still functions,” says Mr Zammit Tabona. “Baroque music does not belong in a museum. It is something that is alive; not something to be closed in a vetrina [display case].”

So what’s next for Mr Zammit Tabona after the end of this year’s festival next Saturday? “Well,” he says with a laugh, “The brochure for the 2018 programme is already out, so after this one is over, I’ll start working on the one in 2019.”

Certainly not one to rest on his laurels!

More information regarding the Valletta International Baroque Festival, including the programme up to 28 January, can be found on www.vallettabaroquefestival.com.mt 33

34

FROM FIELD TO FORK The story of an organic suburbanite.

By Albert Delia. Photos by Michael Camilleri

W

ith the weather turning colder, and the island experiencing a particularly chilling cold spell, I find myself walking down St Julian’s waterfront to meet this month’s interviewee. Huddled into my coat, I turn into an estate agency’s offices and, seated behind a desk, Reuben Cini greets me with a friendly smile and offers me a seat.

As I take out my notepad, I cannot help but think that this was a rather particular place to be meeting an organic farmer.

Reuben is a rare and interesting breed indeed: a city slicker during office hours and rural roamer the rest of the time. So how did this lover of urban spaces end up running a farm? The story started seven years ago. Reuben hails from a family of ‘super foodies’ as he likes to call them and, to put it quite simply, the transition from connoisseurs to producers seemed a logical progression. When he first began this endeavour, the transition was by no means an easy one. For a city boy to put down roots in the countryside with the intent of running a successful organic farm in Malta sounds like a daunting prospect, and it was.

Organic farming is defined as a form of crop cultivation that strives for sustainability, the enhancement of soil fertility and biological diversity whilst –

with rare exceptions – prohibiting synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, synthetic fertilizers, genetically-modified organisms and growth hormones. In a landscape and climate that can be harsh and unforgiving, this is no easy task, and yet the farm not only thrives but is also completely self-sufficient and produces a surplus of energy.

The proximity of agricultural holdings, coupled with issues of water scarcity amongst a myriad other factors, makes the cultivation of organic produce in Malta particularly difficult. So it comes as no surprise that Ladybird Farm is proud of its organic credentials. Obtaining that certificate demands dedication and, unfortunately, it comes at a cost says Reuben. The fact that access to insecticides is highly restricted means that your one’s crops are, to a degree, left vulnerable.

Sadly, a significant proportion of one’s harvest ends up being lost to disease and insects, especially compared to its conventionally cultivated counterparts. The quality of the remaining produce, however, supersedesits competitors.

Arriving at the point the farm is at today has required time, getting used to the lie of land and the particularities of farming in general and in that area specifically.

The endeavour was originally an experiment in trial and error and the provision of good advice from local expertise was essential. »

ORGANIC FARMING IS DEFINED AS A FORM OF CROP CULTIVATION THAT STRIVES FOR SUSTAINABILITY, THE ENHANCEMENT OF SOIL FERTILITY AND BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY WHILST – WITH RARE EXCEPTIONS – PROHIBITING SYNTHETIC PESTICIDES, ANTIBIOTICS, SYNTHETIC FERTILIZERS, GENETICALLY-MODIFIED ORGANISMS AND GROWTH HORMONES. 35

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TODAY, THE CULTIVATION OF OLIVES AND GRAPES TAKES UP A SIGNIFICANT PROPORTION OF THE SOME 25,000 SQUARE METRES OF LAND THAT IS LADYBIRD FARM, LOCATED IN DINGLI, WITHIN AN AREA KNOWN AS ‘WIED NAPPA’

«The propensity and perseverance to try new techniques as well as finding the right crop and herb rotations fortunately paid off. The impression I get is that farming is, in essence, a tricky balancing act of trying to find the right harmony between a significant amount of variables – soil, water, environmental changes and market forces chief amongst them.

After having imported and successfully introduced grape vines from Tuscany, it nevertheless required a few years before being able to produce a good, palatable wine. However, despite these setbacks, the lessons learnt have proved invaluable. Ladybird Farm now grows Cabernet, Merlot and Sangiovese grape varieties, producing wines from all of them, and they have also begun producing a dessert Passito wine.

Reuben likes to call it a boutique winery, producing some 600 bottles annually.

Today, the cultivation of olives and grapes takes up a significant proportion of the some 25,000 square metres of land that is Ladybird farm, located in Dingli, within an area known as ‘Wied Nappa’.

Reuben and I exchange a grin at the fact that he grows grapes and makes wine in ‘Nappa Valley’similar in name to the famous winecultivating region in California. Despite the coincidence, Reuben confesses that he is, however, more of an olive oilman. In fact, he sounds almost like a bit of a perfectionist in this area and it is clear that he is striving to create an amazing product.

Looking somewhat downcast,he tells me that the last olive harvest was, sadly, abysmal. The dry winter Malta experienced at the beginning of last year devastated olive production across the country – just one of the risks one has to come to terms with if one wants to take on this kind of endeavour.

Apart from the grapes and olives, the farm cultivates whatever is in season, and Reuben rightly came to the conclusion that the best way of guaranteeing control over where his produce finally ended up was to get it to the final consumer himself. Ladybird Farm now operates three establishments that stock and sell the products it creates: a gourmet food store – (La Coccinnella), a deli and a café. In fact, it seems that Ladybird is one of the few places that runs a ‘plant-to-plate’ supply and production system.

Reuben makes it clear that, at this point in time, it is impossible for these three places to exclusively sell only the products they create, but that being said, he guarantees the quality of all the ingredients used in the products they sell. The cafés menus change weekly and obviously according to the produce currently in season. The dishes served are impeccably produced, and he can say this with confidence because he admits that, at times, he is his own harshest critic.

So what’s next for this intrepid agriculturalist?

Funnily enough, although he would like to expand further, because it is a family-run business, one of the things restraining growth is that he has run out of family members! With his father-in-law tending the farm, his wife at the deli, his sister running La Coccinella and his mother at the café, the only person left is his nine-year-old daughter. Reuben’s dream, however, is to one day have his own agriturismo at the farm. At the rate they’re currently going, I’m quite confident that we will be hearing about it soon enough.

Anyone wishing to try Ladybird’s products can visit The Deli in Swieqi, Ladybird Street Café in Gzira or La Coccinella Gourmet Food Store in St Julian’s.

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8 SIMPLE WAYS

TO DETOX YOUR BODY Reduce your sugar intake Start with Water It’s not easy. Water can be considered boring and ignored throughout the day, but it is essential. And a large glass of water with the juice from half a lemon in the morning helps rehydrate the system and promotes digestion, which will help the flow of waste out of your body. Try it: give it a few days and feel the difference!

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A seasonal detox is an effective way to clear your body of toxins, which will also speed up your metabolism and enhance your overall health. You can start by cutting down on the amount of sugar you use, and that includes honey, molasses and artificial sweeteners. A seasonal detox is an effective way to clear your body of toxins, which will also speed up your metabolism and enhance your overall health. You can start by cutting down on the amount of sugar you use, and that includes honey, molasses and artificial sweeteners.

Move your body Regular exercise encourages circulation in the blood and lymph systems, and will also enhance digestion, reduce tension, lubricate joints and strengthen your body. It is a proven fact that people who exercise regularly have far fewer total toxins in their systems! Also, walk that extra flight of stairs, don’t be afraid to park your car a little further away – every little helps and adds to the more mobile you!

Drink a lot of tea This will please tea-drinkers. Not only is tea full of antioxidants, but it also hydrates you (especially if it is herbal) and fills you up. By having a cup of tea in-between meals you will be less likely to overeat or eat the wrong things! Keep in mind, however, that the caffeine in tea can act as a diuretic, so you will still need to drink those glasses of water.

It’s not always easy to kick-start a healthy regime, especially when the weather advocates comfort food and copious quantities of layers and sofa-time, but just a few simple steps in the right direction can make a big difference and give you all you need to be inspired by a healthier lifestyle. Without spending money on retreats or spas, these are some easy ways to recuperate after a gluttonous Christmas season and will help you feel healthier than ever!

Eat organic food

Combat environmental pollutants

A colourful variety of fruits and vegetables should be the main focus of your diet, along with whole grains, beans and legumes and small amounts of nuts and seeds. You should eat whole plant foods because processed food lacks the nutrients your body needs. Dark green vegetables, for instance, are full of micronutrients and very low in calories, so you can eat a lot of them.

Pollution and allergens are all around you. They’re in the air and can trigger allergy symptoms (such as puffy, red eyes) so try to help yourself by flushing your nasal passages regularly with a Neti Pot. Doing so can eliminate the side-effects of air pollutants and lead to better breathing naturally. If you use the Neti Pot before bed it’s even better because it enhances your sleep.

Sweat it out in a Sauna There is nothing more detoxing than a sauna.

Exfoliate Skin brushing and oil massages will help exfoliate the toxins from your skin and refresh circulation – so now you need no excuses for pampering yourself!

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MAGIC SOUP

INGREDIENTS SERVES 2 250g yellow split peas 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp ground turmeric 1 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter 1 onion, sliced 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground ginger 1/2 tsp garam masala 180g young leaf spinach 2 tbs toasted mixed seeds (such as sunflower, pumpkin or sesame seeds)

WHAT TO DO Rinse the split peas thoroughly and place in a saucepan with 1 litre water, the cayenne pepper and turmeric and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook gently for about 15-20 minutes or until the split peas are soft and broken up. Remove half the split peas and process in a blender to a smooth consistency, then return to the pan with the rest and stir through.

Heat the coconut oil in a large frying pan, add the onion and cook gently for about 10 minutes, or until soft. Add the spices and continue to cook for about five minutes until the aromas are released. Add the spinach to the pan and stir until it has wilted. Heat through the split pea soup, divide among two serving bowls and top with the spiced spinach and onions. Garnish with toasted mixed seeds.

Magic Soup by Nicole Pisani and Kate Adams is published in hardback (£18.99; eBook £9.99)

Magic soup, Kate Adams discovered, is what Mauritian women eat after having a baby to get back in shape while getting as much nutrition as possible. Kate and Nicole Pisani fell in love with the name and always make some when they feel the need for a burst of delicious healthiness. They’ve created a version of their own, with a combination of the best metabolism-boosting, fat-burning spices, including cayenne pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, cardamom and cumin.

By Nicole Pisani, from the book Magic Soup.

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POST CHRISTMAS

COMFORT FOOD Two delicious recipes by Dusha Lia from Baltazar Bistro

Prawn, avocado and mango noodle salad INGREDIENTS SERVES 8 Thin rice noodles 200g of king prawns 1 bunch of asparagus tips ( optional ) 1 avocado 1 mango Handful of baby spinach leafs Fresh red chilly Fresh coriander 1 lime to decorate

DRESSING 2 tbsp sesame oil 1/4 cup lime 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce

WHAT TO DO Soak rice noodles in boiling hot water, rinse and set a side. Grill prawns and asparagus tips . Combine noodles and baby spinach and toss it with half the dressing. Start plating - bed of noodles , add mango slices , avocado, asparagus tips and grilled prawns on top. Drizzle remaining dressing and decorate with fresh coriander, chilly and lime quarters.

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Apple Strudel FOR THE FILLING 3 tbs Demerara sugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon 3 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into chunks 1 tbs fresh breadcrumbs Knob of butter FOR THE PASTRY Square sheet of ready-madepuff pastry 1 tbs brown sugar mixed with cinnamon 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten

WHAT TO DO Heat the oven to 180 C. Stir Demerara sugar and a good pinch of cinnamon together in a medium pan and add apples. Cook over medium heat until apples soften, then add butter and breadcrumbs and allow to cool down to room temperature.

Unfold the puff pastry onto a baking sheet, spoon the apple mixture over the bottom half of the pastry sheet to within an inch of the edge. Fold pastry over and seal join by pressing a fork around the edges. Brush with the egg yolk, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon mixture and cut four deep slits in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape. Bake for 35 minutes or until pastry is golden-brown. Place baking sheet on wire rack and leave strudel to cool for 20 minutes. Dust with icing sugar if desired.

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DEALING WITH A DILEMMA

Dear Claire

I cannot understand all the fuss about New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. To me, it is just achange from one day to another, with the only difference being that we start a new calendar and open a fresh diary. I think that it is another excuse for artificial celebration to encourage people to spend more moneyand personally think this brings distress rather than joy.

I

f you put it this way, one second past midnight is a mere change from Saturday to Sunday, which is rather unexceptional and with no distinctive meaning. Yet, at some point in time, the day associated with the end of one year and the beginning of the next has been given a deeper significance. It gives most people an opportunity to make a clean break with what was, and look into the future with hope and renewed optimism. It symbolises their survival for the past 365 days and the confidence of making it through yet another cycle, ideally under better personal, and global, conditions.

This unique tick is a perfect cut-off between what was, as opposed to what is to come, which to some of us may be rather daunting. The fate of each and every one of us is, to a large extent, beyond our control and fear of the unknown triggers our survival instincts. We cannot bear not to know what will come to pass and resent the fact that we can therefore not prepare ourselves.

Resolutions are one attempt at overcoming this. After taking stock of, and reflecting on, what has been, each and every one of us tries to devise ways of improving various aspects of our lives. We try to anticipate and put in motion changes that will, in the long run, avoid possible difficulties. This false sense of control counteracts the fear of the unknown, so we try to forestall health issues by such things as embarking on a healthier diet and exercise regime. Some may fear financial difficulties and others work-related issues, but we will all attempt to deal with those aspects we feel may threaten our wellbeing.

These proposals are usually also influenced by any recent episodes that we have experienced in recent months. So someone may decide to quit smoking due to recent physical pain and consequent doctor’s advice.

These decisions are usually maintained or otherwise depending on one’s willpower and any sense of urgency

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AFTER TAKING STOCK OF, AND REFLECTING ON, WHAT HAS BEEN, EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US TRIES TO DEVISE WAYS OF IMPROVING VARIOUS ASPECTS OF OUR LIVES

about the issue. Various studies show that, in the long run, most of us do not make good on these promises.

However, irrespective of whether or not we stick to our resolutions, the mere exercise of compiling such proposals is enough to reduce any anxiety related to such uncertainties.

Interestingly, changes during this period also include altering or modifying relationships beyond our inner circle. It is a time when we try to build more bridges and make changes that should help us improve, even as a society. It is a time during which we try to put aside any disagreements. These are days of joy and peace which we all hope will continue during the months to come.

Contrary to all that’sbeen said above, for some frustration kicks in when people realise that all their good intentions and willpower has been lost in the first few weeks of the year. For this reason, it is important that the above resolutions are challenging but

attainable, for example by identifying the ultimate goals but then breaking them down into manageable steps to be achieved within realistic time frames. It is also important to start small and simple, working your way into greater complexity rather than getting embroiled in unnecessary detail at the outset, as this would inevitably be discouraging. In relation to this, should one wish to make numerous changes, it is important to tackle them one at a time in order to dedicate to each the necessary focus and energy. Attempting too much too soon is counter-productive. Ideally, also engage some kind of support for your changes, be it professional or otherwise, depending on the nature of the issue. Encouragement as well as accountability are key requirements for a successful change, at least until such change has become completely internalised.

So consider New Year’s Day as a landmark for a fresh start. Let it go beyond the beginning of a new calendar year. Identify your goals and dreams for the near future

IT IS A TIME WHEN WE TRY TO BUILD MORE BRIDGES AND MAKE CHANGES THAT SHOULD HELP US IMPROVE, EVEN AS A SOCIETY. IT IS A TIME DURING WHICH WE TRY TO PUT ASIDE ANY DISAGREEMENTS and work towards achieving them. Rather than a time of distress, use it as a time during which you become more aware of yourself and your needs. Be positive and confident and do not be afraid to try new things.

Challenge your limits and dare to go a step beyond

your comfort zone. Make new friends and mix with people with similar likes and interests so that you build a network of support. Transform this into the start of a journey towards a better version of yourself.

I wish you all a positive year.

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46

FITTIXNI THE LATEST CHILDREN’S BOOK ON THE SHELVES

Antoinette Borg took the brave decision to give up her successful career as an accountant to write a children’s book, entitled Fittixni, which is without a doubt a welcomeaddition to Maltese literature that even adults can enjoy! She lives in Mellieha with herhusband Brian, two children – 13-year-oldJulian and Eleyne who is six and two budgies, Timmy and Daisy, that are deeply in love. Photo By Jonathan Borg

B

riefly, what is the book about?

The story of Fittixni (Look for me) is driven by the spirit of a young English woman named Jessica, who drowned in rough seas off the coast of Malta in 1937. She died holding on to a box in which her little daughter lay sleeping.

Many decades later, Jessica wants her story and that of her daughter – along with their longburied mysteries – to be unearthed and made known. Enter Jack: a 12-year-old Maltese boy who, while bored out of his mind at his grandmother’s house, finds an old family photograph which features a little blonde girl he knows nothing about. Helped by his friends, he gradually pieces together the identity of the little girl, her incredible story and a secret from the past that had never been told to anyone.

Where did the inspiration come from to write Fittixni?

While helping my son with his summer reading project about two years ago, I happily re-read three of Trevor Żahra’s adventure books: Meta Jaqa’ ċ-Ċpar, Dwal fil-Fortizza and L-Għar tax-Xelter.

I really enjoyed reading these books again, as they took me right back to my childhood,when my love of books had actually been kindled. Trevor’s adventures were simmering in my mind when I started my usual weekend ironing marathon on a hot Saturday afternoon. While staring at one creased shirt after another, I had a vision of a boy my son’s age rummaging around in his grandma’s house and finding an old photo which intrigues him. Then, probably to while away the boredom of my chore, I set off a chain of questions to myself to build the story behind that photograph, and by the time I’d finished my ironing I had a rough storyline mapped out in my head. Then I rushed to my computer and typed it all out: Fittixni had just been conceived.

novel. Some of the themes underlying the story are quite deep, and there are inter-textual links with Maltese literary classics that will be more appreciated by olderreaders. In fact, many adults are reading and thoroughly enjoying Fittixni and I am overwhelmed by their enthusiastic feedback.

A story is a story is a story. If it is a good story and it is well written, it can be enjoyed by anyone of any age.

Do you feel that Maltese literature is appreciated enough in schools or in general?

I think there is a generally positive attitude and a growing interest in Maltese literature, but there is a problem of limited choice of quality reading material compared to the vast selection available in English.For example, when my son developed an interest in stories with a football theme, we found numerous books in English but none in Maltese.I believe thishas the effect ofencouraging young readers to start looking for English books by default and graduallydistancingthemselvesfrom Maltese literature, sometimes for good.

For the author, the limited market means that writing a book in Maltese is always a non-starter from a financial point of view. The author’s revenue for months, if not years, of hard workis a measly amount, which is discouraging. I have worked in various sectors where the government provides compensation for services of public interest that would otherwise be unfeasible due to thesmall market, and I think the contribution of authors to a healthy body of Maltese literature should likewise be recognised. Recent initiatives such as introduction of public lending rights are small steps in the right direction, but this is a long way from what is needed tonourish a living, breathing Maltese literary scene.

Why did you choose to write a children’s novel rather than one for Was it hard to exchange accountancy for writing?! adults?

It was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make.I have always I never gave much thought to whether the story I was writing was for children or adults. I simply had a story which had to be written, and I tried to write it in a way that I would enjoy it myself if I were to read it for the first time. So in a way I wrote Fittixni with myself as the targeted reader.

Since one of the main narrators is a 12-year-old boy, the book is being promoted mainly for readers around that age but I personally don’t think Fittixni can be ring-fenced as a children’s

WITH MY LIFE’S PACKED SCHEDULE THERE WAS NO WAY I COULD EVER MAKE TIME TO WRITE IT – UNLESS I GAVE UP MY JOB

wanted to write a book, but it was a wish of the sort you place dreamily in your bucket list. Meanwhile, in real lifeI started nurturing an accountancy career and a growing family at home.

When the plot of Fittixnifell into my head, I finally had a story to write but with my life’s packed schedule there was no way I could ever make time to write it – unlessI gave up my job.This was a terrifying thought which meant taking a leap in the dark while slashing my family’s income by half, indefinitely. It seemed like madness, but the story kept calling me until eventually, with the support of family and friends, I mustered up the courage to do it.

From the first day, I started relishing the pure joy of writing, but along the way there were tough bits where I would be riddled – sometimes crippled – with self-doubt. But then the book started taking the shape I wanted, and then I found a fantastic mentor in Trevor Żahra, and then the book had the thumbs-up for publication from Merlin Publishers, and then... Fittixni was on the bookshelves! It would take me a whole book to describe how this feels!

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COMMUTING: THE GREEN WAY

The Planning Authority roll out in-house plan to reduce employee dependance on cars

T

he Planning Authority is encouraging organisations to offer their employees incentives to commute to work in a green way – and it is leading by example. It has introduced a variety of schemes for its own employees, ranging from a minibus service, to free top-up of Tal-Linja cards, ferry tickets across Marsamxett and Grand Harbour, and incentives for those who commute on foot, by bicycle or scooter or who carpool.

Other measures include the provision of an emergency vehicle (to ensure that staff who only use their car in case they have to leave quickly in the event of an emergency can use public transport but would be ferried quickly, should anything unfortunate happen to relatives) and the increased deployment of electric or hybrid cars. A wider flexitime period (starting from 6am to 9am) also helps as the extended arrival period does not coincide with the morning rush hour, thus helping reduce the car load at any one time. A number of additional measures are being contemplated for the future.

A number of objectives can be realised through these measures. One is reducing the actual number of vehicles on the road and the associated need for parking spaces. Another is to promote the use of more environmentally-friendly vehicles and yet another is to reduce the need for travel.

It is estimated that, on average, each car requires around 200 square metres of road if it travels at a maximum speed of 80 kilometres an hour. “Cars take up much more space than people realise because of the road requirements,” explains architect Frans Mallia.

“This does not include just the car’s footprint but also the safe distance from other cars. If lateral distances of adjacent lanes are taken into account, then the figure is even higher. Parking also takes up a lot of space.

“When using private vehicles, parking is required at each location where the driver temporarily leaves the car. This is applicable to the home, places visited (such as the workplace, shops, etc.), visits to relatives or friends and so forth. The efficient use of space is even more relevant in Malta, where space is so limited and where there are more private cars than driving licences!

“And the island has the second most dense transportation network in the world. Since the 1980s, the number of roads constructed has been phenomenal, as we have tried to keep up with the increase in demand for cars. Whilst it is true that there are practically no options to replace the comfort and flexibility offered by the private car – this only applies as long as there is no congestion and you find somewhere to park!We also have to bear in mind that it is also practically the most expensive means of transport.”

Transport Malta and other entities have been taking a number of initiatives to ease the pressure. In view of its remit of sustainably regulating land use, the

Planning Authority has taken green travel possibilities very seriously. “Our remit is to look at land use but that includes understanding the impact of traffic and roads, as you cannot have one without the other,” says Mr Mallia.

Land transport features very prominently in spatial planning and thus the PA feels obliged to contribute to research and, where possible, implement measures that promote green travel. It is also carrying out a number of related studies that are being drafted to complement other documents on the subject. Exchanges with Transport Malta also take place in the determination of development applications and traffic assessments of larger projects.

The PA has already established contacts with other entities to share what it has learnt so far from its green travel trials. For example, contacts to explore commonalities and experience have already been established with the Environment and Resource Authority, part of which was formerly merged with the PA through the former Mepa.

Persuading people to give up their cars will almost

WE WANT TO ENSURE THAT IF COMPANIES WANT TO TAKE UP THE IDEA OF ORGANISING ALTERNATIVES FOR THEIR EMPLOYEES, WE ARE IN A POSITION TO HELP THEM BASED ON FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE AND SHARE OUR MODEL WITH THEM certainly only happen if there is some form of incentive or viable alternative. About a year ago, the Authoritylaunched a project that began with a questionnaire sent to its 400 staff. This was used to explore feasible green travel options, given that the members of staff have different commuting patterns.

It is well known that green travel measures are most applicable to staff who regularly arrive at and leave their place of work at the same time every day and do not need to run errands on the way. Last summer, the authority organised – and paid for – two minibuses, one collecting staff from the north and the other from the south. To make it viable, the commute had to be as short as possible, so it set the times before the morning

rush hour. Since the Authority has offered flexitime to its staff, they were able to start and finish work earlier.

The service had an appeal to one sector of its staff. The earlier journey time also translated into spreading traffic away from the morning rush hour.

“It was oversubscribed in the summer but before we extended it, we wanted to see how it worked in winter, when people might have children’s school times and after-school activities to take into consideration,” said Mr Mallia. The mini-bus trial has therefore been extended until December, after which a decision will be taken to make modifications where necessary and provide a service of a more permanent nature.

The incentives have so far persuaded around 40 staff members to leave their cars at home in favour of using public transport. Staff are offered up to €26 a month to top-up the Tal-Linja card – meaning that, to all intents and purposes, public transport becomes free for card users and the benefit extends beyond office hours. Another benefit includes the refund of the cost of a block ticket for the ferry across Marsamxett or Grand Harbour. In such cases, transport is provided from the ferry landing to the PA’s offices in Floriana in order to further facilitate the uptake of this travel option.

To encourage people who cannot use public transport to use less-polluting transport means, those who use motorcycles, scooters or bicycles, as well as those who walk, receive €312 a year. “The idea is to allow these employees to keep their options open. So if, for example, it is too hot to walk or it is raining, then the subsidy will cover the cost of alternative green transport (eg the bus),” said Mr Mallia, “which has encouraged a number of people who live nearby to actually walk to and from work.” He also pointed out that walking and cycling also have the added benefit of exercise.

Another measure the Authority considered as a way of reducing car numbers was through car-pooling. One ‘carrot’ is to offer reserved parking for those who carshare with at least one passenger and another option being considered is to offer a number of company cars for use for commuting, providing the driver car-pools with at least two other people.

Naturally, the measures will have only a small impact on the traffic and parking loads but the effect will be much more significant if the example is emulated by other entities in both the public and private sectors.

And advantages are envisaged if different organisations can team up to benefit from the economies of scale.

“The government is actively trying to tackle this issue and announced measures for employers in the Budget a few weeks ago. We want to ensure that if companies want to take up the idea of organising alternatives for their employees, we are in a position to help them based on first-hand experience and share our model with them.”

For further information contact Robert Galea on 22901048 or email gtp@pa.org.mt 49

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Nina and Luna, together Les Belles de Nina, by Nina Ricci are now available in 20ml collectible bottles at selected Nina Ricci outlets. Nina and Luna represent a tribe of women in the making, a myriad of girls full of promise, they have the aura and the energy of youth, evade compulsory figures, watching the horizon, stretching towards the unknown. They enter life as if they were biting into an apple. Nina and Luna. Stronger together. Joining forces through tacit recognition, an unwavering bond that needs no words. Except perhaps Les Belles de Nina.

2.

The Genuine Lapland Hand Cream from Polaar, based on ancestral formulations developed by the women of Lapland, is highly concentrated in arctic berries extract. It preserves the beauty and smoothness of your hands. With its light and discreet fragrance the hands are wrapped in comfort within an invisible and protective “glove”.

Its ultra-soft, fine and creamy texture is immediately absorbed without leaving an oily film. It contains a combination of Arctic raspberries, blackberries and lingon berries which work in synergy on your hands to perfectly moisturise, nourish and protect them, together with Shea butter and beeswax to deeply nourish and protect the hands. Polaar’s Genuine Lapland Hand Cream is suited to all ages, gender and skin types and like all Polaar Products is free of paraben, alcohol or mineral oil.

COMPETITIONS Win: Sandlewood and peach scented candle from Mdina Glass; Paco Rabanne Olympea Aqua Eau de Toilette perfume (50ml); Prada Luna Rossa Shower gel (100ml) and Eue de Toilette (50ml); A bottle of Valentino Uomo Intense (50ml). Its value is ¤66.

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Question: What are the three most iconic pieces from the fashion brand Chloé?

Send your answer, including your full name and contact details, by Tuesday 31 January, including your preferred prize (Candle, Raco Rabanne, Prada or Valentino,) to First Competition, The Malta Independent, Standard House, Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s. Good luck!

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WINNER from the DECEMBER ISSUE Roberta Pisani from Sliema has won Jean Paul Gautier Classique Coffret perfume from Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery.

Congratulations!

Julie and Carmel Busuttil, Celia Melillo, Tanya Attard, Chef Joe Vella , Michele Villotti and Luigi Novara

Social Whirl Silhouette eyewear launched their Atelier collection at the Hilton Malta on Saturday 3rd December, represented by O’hea Opticians

Dr Susanna and Mark Diacono and Dr Edward Melillo

Executive Chef Joe Vella Dr Stephen Brincat and Ms Sandra Fsadni

Charles and Ron models with Mr and Mrs Gatt Baldacchino

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Katia Muscat, Ramon and Karen Farrugia

Mraiella Magri, The Hon Edwin Vassallo, Mr and Mrs Valerio Schembri

LAST WORD From Victor Calleja, the Maltese author of the book Where’s my brother?

Photograph by Jonathan Borg. »

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“

I’m a balding old man who scribbles for a living. I loveplaying the jester. In life and in my writing, I always try to find something worth smiling about.

Life is not always easy but we do make it worse sometimes by forgetting the good and seeing too much of what is wrong.

I don’t have much of a plan of how my day will go. I usually wake up earlyandtry to writeas much as possible while I’m fresh and clear.I work fromhome, so unless I have an early appointment I proceed to have a lengthy breakfast with Louise, my wife, and then get back to work.

I set myself a goal of writing about 2,000 words a day. I drift from one project or article to another – I am terribly uncoordinated and any timemanagement coach would certainly give up on me. I’m also super-agile at getting distracted – from making coffee to sharpening pencils to writing inane emails or seeing what other jokers have to say on social media. Mid-morning I bathe, shave and then back to work.

Lunch is a quick sandwich followed by a pod of caffeine and then either meetings and interviews or back to the writing grind. Unless weare meeting friends or family, I try to go for a walk then have a leisurely dinner with Louise followed by reading, more reading and then off to the Land of Nod. I didn’t think I was a man of routine – but all this makes me sound as if I really am.

The first years of school that I rememberwere terrible. I hated school. I think I have a complete aversion to learning anything new and everything was new at St Joseph’s, Sliema. All this was further compounded because my first teacher actually taught me the ABC in the wrong way. I preferred staying at home, but my parents thought otherwise. Why are parents such dictators? My older siblings – all four of them – loved school and came back home talking enthusiastically about what they had done, learnt and been told. I decided quite early that my family were all nuts – my parents for sending me to school and my siblings for raving about it.

SoI attended St Joseph’s, and then I was ordered by my father to make it a point to win a placeat the best school, the Lyceum. If I thought St Joseph’s was bad,

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I THINK THAT THERE SHOULD BE MORE CREATIVE WRITING AT ALL LEVELS OF EDUCATION. I THINK EVERYONE SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED TO WRITE, TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES

I quickly realised that this was hell. St Joseph’ssuddenly seemed like the Golden Age where everything was bright and perfect. At junior school it was nuns and gloriously sweet teachers looking after us. This contrasted with the Lyceum where it was tougher, with all sorts of students to live with.

I think that there should be more creative writing at all levels of education.

I think everyone should be encouraged to write, to express themselves. Even if writing, like most creative talents, cannot be just taught, it definitely needs nurturing. I never really had the opportunity myself. I was never praised for my writing skills and I never knew of this talent – if I do have it – until very late in life. Had circumstances not dictated that I get ‘discovered’ in my fifties, I would never have started writing. Maybe for the world that would not have been

such a bad thing! I’ve been an avid reader since I was 15 (yes, I was a late starter in nearly everything) and I firmly believe that reading is the most important basic for writing.

I began to enjoy writingwhen I was in my mid-fifties. I knew that I wanted to write Where’s My brother? when I started writing about incidentsin my life in local magazines and people enjoyed the stories. The book is a light, flighty look at some colourful incidents inmy life:a bit of nostalgia from my younger days. So far, most people have given me tremendously positive feedback. But then, few would admit to having hated it.

It’s not chronological – it reflects my own way of living, skipping from one thing to the other, digressing and managing to talk in a way that baffles most people. As I say in the book, if I’m asked to do so professionally I can write chronologically

and in a very orderly way. But my life is not like that at all. My brain is likea cluttered drawer, full of colour and fun and a touch of mayhem.

I am writing three books at the moment and I am also ghosting a book of memoirs by a leading Maltese personality. One day, if I have the time, I will also get hold of my silly – some are serious – poems and see what can be donewith them. Also, if I am given an extension to my life,I hope to produce a book of fictional short stories and finish off with a big bang – my own novel, my own magnum opus.

I have never believed in conspiracy theories but I do have one for everything that is happening in the world right now: could Putin be an alien who is programmed to be indestructible and is slowly helping his minions take over the world?”