Sunday Circle (June 2017)

JUNE 2017 – ISSUE NO. 269

THE DREADED S-WORD page 22

SWIM WITHOUT THE STING: SPOTTING JELLYFISH page 38

MISUNDERSTOOD SATIRE page 48

NIELS PLOTARD The passion of dance / page 16

Exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 4079

CONTENTS COVER STORY 16

45

CONFESSIONS OF AN ARTIST Iggy Fenech discovers how Niels Plotard is an artist by birth, not profession.

54

H E A LT H 22

77

52

THE DREADED S-WORD It’s all fun and games, until someone throws caution to the wind and winds up with a sexually transmitted infection. How to avoid, detect, and cure when possible? Johnathan Cilia gets the facts.

YOUNG AND HEALTHY WITH DISEASED TEETH Dental and implant surgeon Jean Paul Demajo back to the rescue with advice about dental care.

ARTS 32

48

STYLE 26

A TITAN IN THE WORLD OF FASHION Style is about being effortless, while fashion is about making people feel uncomfortable.

Celebrated stylist Eli van Poeyer tells Anna Marie Galea that his job is to balance the two.

THE COLOURS OF SUMMER The new Diego Dalla Palma Milano Spring/Summer Collection 2017 is characterised by a fresh, young feel.

HEY, GOOD-LOOKIN’ Moira Delia shares some of her style secrets with Sunday Circle STRIDING INTO SUMMER Whoever said that male fashion had to be boring? It's all about attitude and confidence this season.

AUTHENTICITY AND IDENTITY Andrej Vujicic and Francesca ‘La Chica’, of Puerto Flamenco fame, return Ship of Theseus, combining contemporary dance with digital projections and traditional flamenco.

LAUGHING ABOUT POLITICS As Malta comes out of one of the most fiercely-debated elections in its history, Michael Fenech, the man behind Bla Kondixin and the producer of Adult Panto, tells Iggy Fenech why satire is so important to democracy.

SUMMER 38

26

SPOT THE JELLYFISH Scared of getting your toes wet for fear of getting stung this summer? Alan Deidun reminds us that there is someone keeping track of the little creatures for us.

54

PETS 71

STRAYS ON THE SISTER ISLAND With limited resources and an ever-increasing number of dogs and cats to rehome, the Gozo SPCA is working miracles to curb the problem.

Johnathan Cilia reports.

REGULARS 06 A word from the editor 10 c Body 12 c Beauty 14 c Fashion & Style 46 c Living 79 Paparazzi

32

LIFESTYLE 62

31

PERFECT BALANCE OF SWISS PRECISION AND ITALIAN STYLE Luxury watchmakers Parmigiani Fleurier are celebrating the brand’s 20th anniversary with the launch of their first integrated chronograph watch. Michel Parmigiani discusses the past, present and future of this truly luxurious Swiss watch brand.

THIS PUBLICATION IS BEING DISTRIBUTED AS PART OF:

A SUCCESS STORY Johnathan Cilia finds out about the history that led to Greens Supermarket growing into a state-of-the-art hypermarket.

SPORT 64

FOR LOVE OF RUNNING The only man alive to win an Olympic gold medal and finish in first place in the infamous Boston Marathon, runner Gelindo Bordin nowadays devotes his time to mentoring younger runners.

Johnathan Cilia catches up with him on the Gozo marathon trail.

Send your letters to: Ramona Depares, executive editor, Sunday Circle, Allied Newspapers Ltd, 341, Strickland House, St Paul Street, Valletta, VLT 1211, or email: ramona.depares@timesofmalta.com. The executive editor reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and where space is limited. For advertising enquiries email: renee.mdecesare@timesofmalta.com or call: 9947 7193. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole, or in part, is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Opinions expressed in the Sunday Circle are not necessarily those of the editor-in-chief or publisher. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor-in-chief and publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome, but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor-in-chief is not responsible for material submitted for consideration.

A WORD FROM

the editor

It’s the day after D-day and I suppose half of

online (http://www.earthgarden.com.mt/buy-

you are celebrating while the other half is

ticket/). The festival ends with a big bang

Poeyer shares some of his trade secrets and

deep in mourning. Some other unquantifiable

today – there are Manatapu, Modena City

stories with us, while Olympic winner

percentage – a much smaller one – is

Ramblers, Cygna, Nakara Project, Duo

Gelindo Bordin tells a story that should be of

probably rolling its eyes and wondering what

Kukkanja and Blank on today, amongst many

inspiration to all of us, especially young, up-

the hell all that fuss was all about and can

other acts.

and-coming athletes.

you all stop with the carcading already? I

And, until it’s time to hit the festival,

International fashion stylist Eli van

On a more serious note, no-one denies

know I’ve gone over my 100 per cent pie

you can make yourself a nice cuppa – or

the important of sexual health, but somehow

chart allowance, but arithmetic was never a

maybe a Buck’s Fizz, if you’re that way

awareness about it remains a tad lacking.

favourite subject at school and I’m pretty

inclined – and enjoy the magazine that we

Not through any fault of the health

sure my analysis reflects real life in Malta

have put together for you this month. You’ll

department, our laissez-faire attitude seems

better than boring old mathematical

have noticed dancer extraordinaire, part of

to be a sad sign our times. Johnathan Cilia’s

formulas.

the ŻfinMalta national dance company, Niels

feature should show us the light about why

Plotard on the cover – the artist gives new

we should think twice before being all

meaning to the words ‘creative lifestyles’.

cavalier about the topic.

I never quite know what to do with myself on a day like today. People who are not given to carcading talk along the lines of

Then there’s Andrei and Ċikka, of

There’s lots more, of course... fashion,

“oh, not sending the kids anywhere today”;

Puerto Flamenco fame, who are back with a

shopping, personalities... I hope you enjoy

“it’s movie marathon day today”; or even

dazzling, new production as part of the Malta

the read and may you have a stress-free

taking Monday off work, just in case. Me, I

Arts Festival this summer.

Sunday.

don’t take too kindly to killing off a day just because it’s post-election and it’s the usual thing to do. Don’t get me wrong, I’m quite happy to do that on any other day, when noone’s forcing my hand. But not on post-election day.

Which is a bit of a problem, because usually there’s Jack happening on this island on the day after an election. Well, unless you count the winning party’s street parties and carcades, and the meeting tar-rebħa, of course. Which aren’t quite my cuppa, as you’ll have gathered.

Happily, this year the problem has been solved. As happenstance would have it, Earth Garden Festival has been running since Thursday and today is on its last day. Which solves the problem very nicely for me. Music I love, some great street food, chilled vibes and best of all, it’s in a contained area which means...no carcading. So if you’re on my same wavelength, get yourself a day ticket

PUBLISHER ALLIED NEWSPAPERS LTD.

PUBLICATION SALES MANAGER Renée Micallef Decesare

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ramona Depares

DESIGN Joseph Schembri

6 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

COVER Niels Plotard Photography: Florinda Camilleri

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Anna Marie Galea, Johnathan Cilia, Iggy Fenech, Alan Deidun, Caroline Paris

Exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 4079

BODY 1. STroNg SEduCTIoN

1

Luna Rossa Carbon, the new fragance for men from Prada.

Strong as the darkest rock, with the freshness of air, it brings together steam-distilled botanicals and synthetics in a mineralforward mix: metallic notes of Lavender, green citrus of vert de bergamot from Italy, radiant wood of patchouli and dry amber of ambroxan. Exclusively Distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Limited. Tel. 2133 1553.

2

2. For TruE gENTlEmEN Gentlemen Only, by Givenchy, reinterprets the classic men’s fragrance with a woody neo-aromatic composition, aimed at modern-day gentlemen who are not afraid to assert their personality: a stylish, simple fragrance. A subtle mix of freshness and sensuality, an assertive and lasting sillage, Gentlemen Only is undoubtedly the fragrance of a man of taste, for unfailing elegance. Givenchy is exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel. 2142 4079.

3. ESSENCE oF mAN

3

Azzaro Wanted is a singular men’s fragrance, the essence of a man who burns the candle of life at both ends. This fragrance has everything it needs in all the right places to please men (and therefore women) and make it a timeless hit: a well-made and explosive first impression (lemon, ginger), a fleeting heart (cardamom, pyrogenic prickly juniper) and a muscular, ultrasensual base (Tonka bean, vetiver).

4. A FlAWlESS ComPlExIoN Gosh CCC Stick is a must-have product to contour, cover, conceal, strobe and define, designed to create a flawless complexion. The camouflage function infused with cleansing actives promotes an actual – and not just optical improvement of the skin. It eliminates small imperfections, reduces visible pores and leaves behind a smooth silky feel. Gosh CCC Stick also eliminates small imperfections, reduces visible pores, protects, hydrates and soothes the skin. Exclusively distributed by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel. 2142 4079/80.

5. rEFINEd ANd dElICATE L’Eau d’Issey Pure is a refined and delicate bouquet of flowers captured in a drop of water. It is an invitation to go back to the source, to L’Eau d’Issey. Water, the vital element, is embodied by a marine and ambergris accord which blends with a bouquet composed of fresh and light lily of the valley, indulgent jasmine, and sweet damask rose. Underneath the eau lies a vibrant cashmeran wood base. The L’Eau d’Issey Pure woman is natural, elegant, and modern just like the confident woman of today — the very essence of femininity.

4

COMPETITION WIN a 50ml bottle of Eau d’Issey Pure worth €71. Just tell us which is your favourite feature/interview from this month’s edition of Sunday Circle and why. The answer that tickles our fancy most bags the prize! Send your replies to sundaycircle@timesofmalta.com or to Sunday Circle competition, 341, Allied Newspapers, St Paul’s Str., Valletta

10 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

5

BEAUTY RESTORING YOUTHFULNESS

SENSITIVE SUN PROTECTION

The Thalgo Prodige Des Océans skincare range was born from an extraordinary discovery: marine nutrients have highly regenerative properties that act on the proteins key to youthful-looking skin. Drawing on this, the Thalgo Research Centre has created an unprecedented cosmetic innovation: Intelligence Marine Régénérative, aimed at women aged 30 and over and proven to restore youthfulness and to remove wrinkles, restore firmness, combat dryness and blemishes for a young complexion. The range includes a collection of luxurious Cream for the ultimate revitalization and youth-boosting formula; a smoothing, plumping Mask that restores full oxygenation; and an Essence that combines unique performance with an extraordinary marine sensoriality, offering an unequalled flawless skin experience. Exclusively distributed

by VJ Salomone Marketing .

Freephone 80072387 or find us on Facebook Thalgo Malta.

For all skin types including for those of us with sensitive skin, Eau Thermale Avène Sun Care products are formulated with an exclusive photoprotective complex and offer broad-spectrum UVBUVA protection with optimal tolerance. New for this season is the Reflex range. These handy pocket and travel-size sunscreens ensure that you always have one handy, turning application into a reflex action that you carry out as soon as you go into the sun.

Available in all leading pharmacies, Eau Thermale Avène is distributed by Pharma.MT Ltd. 2133 7008.

A DISTINCTIVE FRAGRANCE

ANTI-AGING SUNCARE

Davidoff Cool Water Wave, a distinctive new facet of the signature oceanic fragrance of DAVIDOFF. An energizing scent that offers the impression of being plunged straight into the crashing swells of the ocean. Ask for your free gift with Davidoff purchases in all Franks outlets.

Offer valid till June 11, terms and conditions apply.

For more information visit www.franks.com.mt or call 2388 2300.

Price starts from: €36.35 (40ml).

INTOXICATING SCENT Only The Brave High by Diesel is a woody, aromatic fragrance for men. Only The Brave High aims for exhilaration: that clear-headed, intoxicating sensation of being on top of the world. Conquer the world, elevate yourself. Go higher and higher; rise above the skyline; breathe in the smell of success. Top notes are ginger, mint, grapefruit and yuzu; middle note is geranium; base notes are amber and woody notes. Diesel fragrances are exclusively distributed by Chemimart.

Tel: 2149 2212.

12 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

Pioneers in ultrabroad spectrum protection that filter short and long wave UVA and UVB and neutralise infra-red and visible light, Lierac Laboratories present Sunissime, the first anti-aging suncare range. And that’s not all!

Because the sun is also energy, Lierac have included protaurine and a balance of active ingredients which energize the skin leaving it healthy, tanned and visibly radiant. Lierac Sunissime products are available in selected pharmacies throughout Malta.

Distributed by Pharma.MT Ltd, 2133 7008.

FASHION & STYLE A MODERN CLASSIC Featuring a classy brown leather strap and an elegant black dial, the Classic Black St. Mawes proves that perfection in engineering not only is a possibility, but a reality. Black is an extension of Daniel Wellingtons Classic Collection that pushes the understated minimalist style beyond traditional boundaries, showing off a whole new side of Daniel Wellington. This watch has an Ultra- thin case design which measures 6mm and is available in rose gold and silver. Available from both Sunlab and VIP selling at €189.

AN UNFORGETTABLE IMPRESSION Influenced by the 1950s industrial revolution, Fossil’s Machine Chronograph Black Dial delivers an unforgettable impression, featuring a textured bezel and gold-tone stainless steel bracelet with black silicone wrapped center links. A battery-powered watch with timer functionality. Part effortless cool, part extreme functionality. This Fossil watch is the ultimate masculine essential.

With a rugged design, oversized case and aeronautical-inspired gauges, this industrial style is right on time. The Stainless steel watch straps are extremely durable. Available from both Sunlab and VIP selling at €169.

LUXURY DESIGNERS The Candy clutch from Jimmy Choo is a minimal, ultra-glamorous option for your sophisticated looks. The sparkling champagne glitter texture is combined with a compact design, while the sophisticated gold-tone chain shoulder strap ensures carrying practicality. Show off yours for a tough-luxe effect.

For a casual look, the Smart Zegna trainers are Italian-made smart navy blue trainers from Ermenegildo Zegna with an extra-light shockabsorbing sole.

Available at SARTO, St Julian’s.

CLASSIC, ITALIAN STYLE Born in Turin over 100 years ago under the careful eye of Walter Martiny, Superga exudes classic, Italian style. The quintessential sneaker is mostly popular for the comfortable rubber sole complemented with various materials. The collection includes a selection for women, men and kids in a great range of colours and metallics, starting from just €30. Taking you from the city to the beach, from the office to the bar, or from high street to the park, the easy and iconic Italian brand has no boundaries! Exclusively available from Eurosport B’Kara - Tel: 2385 9259.

14 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

THE RIGHT LOOK A bright blue precision-tailoring suit from Hugo Boss, that is perfect for smart business looks or evening wear. The suit is complete with mother of pearl buttons and integrated pocket square. Available at Hugo Boss, St Julians.

178, Marina Street, Pieta and 31,32 St. Anne’s Street, Floriana | Tel: 2010 2949 | www.victorazzopardi.com

COVER STORY

16 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

COVER STORY

Confessions of an artist IGGY FENECH DISCOVERS HOW NIELS PLOTARD IS AN ARTIST BY BIRTH, NOT PROFESSION.

You can tell a lot by a person’s handshake, and Niels’s was sturdy, coupled with a big, warm smile – an attitude that would resonate throughout our whole interview.

We met at Studio A within St James Cavalier, where he was working alongside his mother, Virginie. Niels, as the creative artist in residence for ŻfinMalta, is currently in charge of the exhibition Stillness Speaks, which is meant to serve as a farewell to the dance company’s artistic director, Mavin Khoo.

It’s not hard to understand why Niels was chosen to do this.

His wide range of interests and work ethic shine through in everything he does; and that, coupled with his charming nature that instantly draws you in, is a recipe for success. But Niels as an accomplished dancer, photographer, video artist and musician, is also a multi-talented artist himself. His inspiration can be anything and everything, yet, whether by design or choice, Niels takes whatever is given to him and transforms it into something that resonates his vision, including his job description.

“When I was younger, I always said that I wanted to be a dancer,” he says as we sit down at Inspirations café and he lights up a cigarette. “That was my goal – whenever they asked me what I wanted to do, I always said ‘dance’.”

And he did become a dancer. In fact, it was while studying in Geneva, Switzerland that he answered an international call for dancers by Mavin Khoo, which would lead Niels to be part of the first troupe of dancers for ŻfinMalta.

“My family isn’t rich, but I never let that stop me,” he explains. “To believe in your dreams is incredibly important but society always tells us that we need to have one job – you’re either a lawyer, an engineer, or an artist, that has to be defined.

But I believe that there are two kinds of people: specialists who do the same thing their whole life, and those who skip from one role to another. I never felt like I had to focus on one thing, or one true calling. I always felt that art, in general, was my calling.”

The way Niels puts it, even in his job as creative artist in residence, nothing is purely artistic or functional: lighting and

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

17

COVER STORY

staging are both an art and science, after all…

And confusing as it may seem, everything becomes clear once you know the whole story.

With a photographer dad, a visual artist for a mother, an uncle who is a sound engineer and two cousins who are dancers, Niels has amalgamated his heritage into a job that made him a Jack of all trades – a role that most people find very difficult to understand.

“Growing up, it was difficult for people to support me in this because they didn’t know what I was or was doing. It took me a long time to understand what my role was. The only thing that kept me going was the question: What would I love to do every day? I wanted my job to be my life, and to love what I do. I didn’t want a job that I needed holidays from, but just to rest every now and then.”

Niels, at just 23, seems to have struck that perfect balance between work and life; admitting that there rarely comes a day when he doesn’t wake up feeling excited for work. Yet, Niels is an artist and, as all true artists, he is constantly looking for his next big thing, which is why, just over a week ago, he founded his new company, The Amber Spark, together with his girlfriend ŻfinMalta

His wide range of interests and work ethic shine through in everything he does dancer Florinda Camilleri, two lawyers and an accountant.

The creative services firm, once fully operational, will be working on three main things: connecting artists and companies to work on projects together; creating a collective cluster of artists to share and discuss ideas; and organising education and outreach projects.

“For people like my girlfriend and I, culture is not just something we attend at the weekend, it is our life,” Niels adds. “I don’t want to do anything else and, for me, it was a gift to build myself up from the bottom because everything was so difficult that I had to look for my own happiness. And that’s what led me here today and what makes me so determined to

18 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

COVER STORY

never make it about money. It’s about what I want to do with my life, and I will let myself do it every day.”

That, it seems, is what keeps propelling Niels to new roles and adventures… The latest being the aforementioned Stillness Speaks, an exhibition that’s part of the Open Space Festival. Based on Niels’s experience of being overwhelmed and overloaded with information, and not being able to instantly recognise ‘what was true and what was pollution’, he decided to create an exhibition using various media, including video and photography, to get people to calm down, let everything go, and take pleasure in spending time searching for details.

“I always had a problem with Facebook,” he tells me. “It’s because everything seems legitimate and everything has been normalised… Just think, there are so many songs about love that we don’t see the value in them anymore – and that’s what I wanted to deconstruct for myself. I wanted to deconstruct everything in my life and start again from zero – to understand what’s important and what’s not, to value the power of working with other people and artists, and not to be afraid of losing some of my ideas. And that’s what I hope this exhibition will do for audiences, too.”

Now running at Spazju Kreattiv until June 24, Stillness Speaks is a farewell to an artist from another, and also a picture of Niels at his most vulnerable. The most beautiful part of the exhibition, however, is that it is unadulterated: starting with zero budget, Niels and his team worked on an exhibition that came with no strings attached, allowing him to truly make his vision a reality.

www.nielsplotardwork.com

I never felt like I had to focus on one thing, or one true calling. I always felt that art, in general, was my calling

20 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

HEALTH

IT’S ALL FUN AND GAMES, UNTIL SOMEONE THROWS CAUTION TO THE WIND AND WINDS UP WITH A SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION. HOW TO AVOID, DETECT, AND CURE WHEN POSSIBLE? JOHNATHAN CILIA GETS THE FACTS FROM VALESKA PADOVESE, A MEDICAL SPECIALIST CONSULTANT AT THE GENITO-URINARY CLINIC AT MATER DEI HOSPITAL. Arguably, from all of the infections and diseases one could

prevalence of syphilis and gonorrhea is also increased among high

unfortunately get, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) must be the

risk groups.”

scariest. The guilt from knowing you may have received a deadly

However, there is a twofold reason for the increase in this

disease through your own behaviour, knowing that your love life may

number, with one reason being benign. “The number is increased also

never be the same again, and the idea that your precious genitalia

because the test uptake at the GU clinic is increased: I am proud to

may be the first to suffer irrevocably, are all thoughts any man or

say that, due to an extraordinary teamwork, we have no waiting list at

woman could do without in their lives.

the moment and we are very active in contact tracing.”

Unfortunately for anyone who enjoys sex, STIs are on the rise in

Through contact tracing, the clinical team can identify and

many countries – Malta included. A 2013 European Centre for Disease

diagnose people that the infected person might have come into

Prevention and Control (ECDC) report showed that STIs were on the

contact with, greatly decreasing chances of the infection spreading,

rise locally, with certain infections being transmitted at an increased

as Dr Padovese notes: “This had an impact on the increased number

rate throughout our population.

of cases detected and notified to the public health authorities, but

However, there have been expanded efforts locally to increase STI awareness and combat the spread of these infections. Valeska Padovese, a medical specialist in Dermatology and Venereology who

also in the reduction of the disease spreading because we treat and counsel patients before they spread infections to others.”

Some of Malta’s STI trends follow European trends, like when it

consults at the Genito-Urinary Clinic at Mater Dei Hospital, has spent

comes to the most affected demographic that is vulnerable to STI

the last 15 years working towards this end. Having working in such

transmission.

varied places as Rome, Ethiopia, Kabul, Lampedusa, and Djibouti on

“The most affected group in Malta, like in the other European

an extended list of issues related to venereal diseases – as well as

countries, is that of men having sex with men, especially those who

issues like Female Genital Mutilation, migrants health, and self-

have multiple sexual partners, don’t use condoms and don’t get

immolation – she now leads the GU Clinic team in serving the entire

tested routinely,” points out Dr Padovese. “However, there are other

Maltese population.

groups at high risk of acquiring STIs. I refer in particular to vulnerable

First, Dr Padovese makes it clear what an STI is. “An STI is an

people, like sex workers (male and female prostitutes), people who

infection that can be transferred from one person to another through

inject drugs and migrants. We are trying to reach these vulnerable

sexual contact. In this context, sexual contact is more than just sexual

groups through outreach programs and by strengthening the

intercourse (vaginal and anal) and also includes oral sex, and the use

collaboration with local NGOs.”

of sexual ‘toys’, such as vibrators. Most STIs are asymptomatic.”

Having an asymptomatic infection, that is an infection that has

Reaching vulnerable people in time is a key strategy in combatting the spread of STIs. “Most STIs can be easily cured with an

no symptoms and isn’t readily obvious, is obviously problematic –

antibiotic, but if they remain undetected they can develop

especially in a country with STIs are gaining traction.

complications leading to chronic pain and inflammation of the

“STIs in Malta are on the rise,” says Dr Padovese. “In the last two years we have doubled the number of HIV positive patients. The

22 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

genitourinary tract, infertility and sterility. Having an STI can increase five-fold the risk of acquiring HIV infection.”

HEALTH

Having an STI can increase five-fold the risk of acquiring HIV infection

While HIV/AIDS may be seen as the ‘big’ one, Malta has other things to worry about, literally. “We should worry about the increase of Chlamydia infection in the heterosexual population, especially among adolescents and people under-25 years of age.

Chlamydia can seriously affect the reproductive health in young people and give rise to complications. We need to address sexual health education and increase awareness about safer sex and risk behaviours in adolescents and young people.”

When I ask Dr Padovese about any prevailing attitudes in Malta that may be leading to an increase in STIs in Malta, her answer is simple: “Yes, having unprotected sex. Alcohol abuse is often co-responsible.”

As simple an act as putting on a condom may be the thing that saves you from years of pain and infertility...and even death. Simple, yet many people still choose to forgo a condom in their sexual sojourns and open themselves up to risk.

Dr Padovese can point to one reason for this. “I think there is not

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

23

HEALTH

In the last two years we have doubled the number of HIV positive patients enough sex education in Malta or, if there is, it is not effective. We

The idea that humanity can ever rid itself of STIs is a naive one.

must change strategy. Sexual health should have been included in the

As Dr Padovese succinctly says, “it is difficult to eradicate STIs”.

curricula of primary school students.”

However, by using condoms, getting tested regularly, and being

While some parents would find it remiss to teach their children

cautious about whom you become involved with, we could easily

the proper ways to deal with sexual health, Dr Padovese sees it as

minimise the spread and eventually bring transmission down to

logical as teaching children about any other type of health. Bear in

nearly nil.

mind that in the US, the three states with the highest rates of

“If we want to decrease STIs spreading in Malta we should focus

unwanted teen pregnancy Mississippi, Texas, and Arkansas – are

our efforts on new prevention strategies, like home testing and

states that preach abstinence, avoid most forms of effective sex

outreach programs,” says Dr Padovese. “We need to develop

education, and in fact are three of the most religious states in the

technologies and use rapid test for point of care testing (POCT).”

country.

The same group of US states can be found at the top of the list

“The Ministry of Health recently launched the HIV auto test, a rapid test for the self assessment of HIV infection through a drop of

of places with the highest STI transmission. To combat STI

blood. The test will be soon available at the GU clinic free of charge,

transmission and other related sexual problems, only a massive and

but it is already available in many private pharmacies all over the

organised campaign can ever be effective – as Australia’s example

country. People who never got tested should take this opportunity to

shows.

assess their HIV status. HIV early diagnosis and treatment is the best

“In Australia, the massive HPV vaccine campaign contributed to

way to prevent AIDS and to reduce HIV spreading.”

reduce dramatically the number of HPV infections responsible for cervical cancer in women and at the same time the prevalence of

If you feel you might be at risk for an STI call the GU Clinic on

genital warts. This is a good example of how a vaccine has a positive

21227981 to talk to a doctor or a nurse who will assess their symptoms

impact on the population’s sexual health. The HPV vaccine was

and then give an appointment. You can also leave a message on the

introduced in Malta in 2015.”

answering machine or send an email at guclinic@gov.mt

24 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

STYLE

A titan in the world of fashion STYLE IS ALL ABOUT PERSONALITY; FASHION ON THE OTHER HAND IS AN EXPRESSION OF ART. CELEBRATED STYLIST ELI VAN POEYER TELLS ANNA MARIE GALEA THAT HIS JOB IS TO BALANCE THE TWO.

26 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

STYLE

Having worked with fashion media giants such as

however, the reality is that our job is about long

Marie Claire, InStyle and Glamour, Eli van Poeyer is

hours. I would say it’s about 5 per cent image and

not just any stylist, but a veritable titan in his field.

95 per cent carrying things from one place to

Catching up with him during his latest trip to Malta

another. It’s also really important that you’re fast,

to style what promises to be Sarto's most sizzling

sharp, quick on your feet, and flexible about

campaign yet, I visited him at the sumptuous

travelling around a lot.”

Corinthia Hotel in St George’s Bay and got into the

It’s about 5 per cent image and 95 per cent carrying things from one place to another

Indeed, Eli’s stylist adventures have brought

nitty gritty of what goes into becoming a world

him to Malta no less than six times in the 16 or so

famous stylist and how his love for Malta keeps him

years he has known Sarto's founder, Michelle

coming back.

Farrugia.

Unlike many people in the style world, Eli knew

“Malta seems to have changed a lot in the

that he wanted to be involved in fashion from a very

last 16 years, especially when it comes to the luxury

young age: “I must have been around six when I saw

industry. Something that I’ve always really loved is

what I think must have been a Chanel show. There

the way that women really dress up for social

was the Eiffel Tower in the background and I

events, however small they are. I have a vivid

remember being totally consumed by what I saw. It

memory of seeing all these ladies dressed to the

was definitely love at first sight for me, because that

nines with their hair done up on a random Sunday

is when the passion was born. I studied fashion in

morning. For me, it is highly reminiscent of the kind

Antwerp and basically spent all my school holidays

of lifestyle you see in Latin societies.

and spare time working in retail or at showrooms.

“I would do all kinds of jobs to gain

“Malta is such a wonderful location because it is steeped in so much culture and history and this

experience. The thing about our job is that people

is something that I really aimed to include in this

only focus on the glitz and glamour of things,

campaign. What I really wanted to do was create

Stephanie Hodgkins, Misa Patinszki and Corina Corduneanu for SARTO

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

27

STYLE

a lifestyle shoot which incorporated lots of the different brands which Sarto offers; I wanted to show how beautifully different items and brands can meld together to create something new and of course, I wanted to put the unique Maltese cultural stamp onto everything.”

Eli explains that his aim was to make the campaign as appealing as possible to a wider, international crowd and help put Malta on the map. For him, Malta is still very much a place which holds many mysteries and he simply loves the juxtaposition of buildings to create a harmony of sorts. After all, his job as a stylist and fashion director is to edit different clothes and brands to create one uniform, flowing piece.

So what are his feelings on the fashion versus style debate? “For me, style is all about personality; it’s basically who you are. It’s the side of you that you want to show to the world. It’s really not about

Eli with Michelle Farrugia and Misa Patinszki

what you choose to wear, but it encompasses how you choose to wear it.

Style has nothing to do with how cheap or

inspiration. Fashion is the highest level of

vision which is timeless and is always one

expensive an item of clothing is, but is all

art, because its purpose is to evoke

step ahead of the curve, however, I feel that

about the effortless way you choose to

emotion in the person seeing it.” While van

if I open a magazine, it will somewhat

wear it.

Poeyer is greatly inspired by fashion, he

damage my own inspiration. The important

chooses not to follow other key figures in

thing is to always maintain an open mind:

the business.

everyone has thoughts and it is important

“On the other hand, fashion is all about art; it is an expression of art. When you see pieces of couture, you are seeing pieces which are designed to give

“Of course, there are a number of people in the business who have a good

to appreciate those thoughts and the emotion they evoke. Fashion is meant to make people feel uncomfortable, because of the things it is meant to make you feel.

My job is to balance that emotion.”

Eli’s wish to make people feel is something very central not only to the Sarto campaign, where he has married Valentino with Dolce & Gabbana and Dsquared2 in order to form a celebration of life, but also extends to people. “#TheSartoLife is nothing if not a lifestyle and in our campaign we really sought to include and project all the wonderful moments of life. We wanted to show life as a celebration which provokes a reaction in everyone. I believe that personal style starts with a lifestyle and the wonderful thing about Sarto is that it has that external vision. It’s the little details which make style and ultimately, life.”

28 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

CIRCLE PROMOTION

Perfect balance of Swiss precision and Italian style LUXURY WATCHMAKERS PARMIGIANI FLEURIER ARE CELEBRATING THE BRAND’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH THE LAUNCH OF THEIR FIRST INTEGRATED CHRONOGRAPH WATCH. MICHEL PARMIGIANI DISCUSSES THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF THIS TRULY LUXURIOUS SWISS WATCH BRAND. How has Parmigiani Fleurier changed as a brand in these 20 years?

Your timepieces are an expression of the highest traditions. How

It has been more of an evolution; the fundamentals and brand essence

does this concept sit well with releasing innovative models?

have always remained the same. Restoration was really the source of

To look forward, you must look back. Tradition plays a key role with

inspiration of the brand, and my ethics in watchmaking came from it.

innovation. I am always open minded to new things, even though I am

Over these 20 years, I have always wanted to create something that is

constantly inspired by restoration and antiques. My innovation starts

coherent from both the outside and the inside of the watch.

from the fundamental traditional values I learnt through restoration.

The name ‘Parmigiani’ makes one think of an Italian origin. Is there

You evolved into the watch business from restoration. How much

a particular link or legacy associated with Italy?

did your background influence the brands’ contemporary range?

Of course, I am half Italian. My father comes from Milan and my

I believe that today we have lost the attention to detail. So having the

mother comes from The Dolomites. They met in Switzerland and I was

opportunity to see the refinement of antique pieces allowed me to

born there. I always say that my education, especially from my father,

gain so much knowledge about detail and the search for excellence.

has a big influence in my career. He taught me to be very attentive to

This really is key to my work, to understand the know-how and to

detail and observe everything.

transfer it into modern and contemporary watches.

From my Italian side, I definitely took creativity and being sensitive to understanding of magnificence, while my Swiss roots

In terms of product, which is the most important novelty of the

have given me more of an exacting and precision-obsessed side to

house?

my personality. So it’s the perfect mixture of my Italian and Swiss

The piece is the one that we have just launched, the very first

roots to both create and be inspired.

integrated chronograph that has been released and presented to celebrate the 20th anniversary. The movement is 18-carat rose gold and it is a very limited edition, 100 pieces in total – there are four versions. It is a very complicated watch because of the movement, and it is an integrated chronograph that means the movement has been developed from scratch by us.

It has taken approximately three to five years to develop such a watch. This is such an achievement for such a young manufacture as we are; normally brands take much more time to produce such an important piece.

Parmigiani watches are exclusively represented by Edwards Lowell Co Ltd.

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

31

DANCE

ANDREJ VUJICIC AND FRANCESCA ‘LA CHICA’ GRIMA, OF PUERTO FLAMENCO FAME, RETURN WITH WHAT LOOKS SET TO BE A UNIQUE PRODUCTION, SHIP OF THESEUS, COMBINING CONTEMPORARY DANCE WITH DIGITAL PROJECTIONS AND TRADITIONAL FLAMENCO. RAMONA DEPARES CATCHES UP WITH THE TWO ARTISTS AHEAD OF THE MALTA ARTS FESTIVAL PRODUCTION.

Photos: Felix Vazquez

32 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

DANCE

y t i c i t n e h t Au y t i t n e d i and How was the concept for Ship of Theseus born?

the past, there is an essence to the artform that is still

What is the story behind the name?

alive. How many contemporary elements can you

Theseus was one of the founder-heroes of Athens,

introduce and still end up with a flamenco show?

probably most famous for the myth in which he kills

Our company has changed many times over in

the Minotaur in the Cretan labyrinth. Upon returning

the 13 years of existence. Yet, there is still an essence

from all his deeds his famous ship was kept preserved

to Puerto Flamenco. Francesca and myself have been

in the harbour of Athens.

living in Seville for the past 17 years. They say every

Over many years as the planks of wood started

seven years or so, a person changes all of its cells in

to rot, they replaced them with new ones in order to

the body; physically, you are a different entity. How

keep the boat afloat. After many decades it became

much does one really change over time? Ultimately,

evident that most, if not all of the planks of the

what is the essence of things given that the change is

original ship had been replaced, yet the people of

inevitable?

Athens still regarded the ship that was in the harbour as The Ship of Theseus.

This gave rise to an interesting philosophical question: at which point, if any, did the ship’s identity

How is it different from your usual flamenco shows?

Since 2010 we started introducing elements of

change into something else. Is it still really the ship of

contemporary stage direction and design into our

Theseus? What makes a ship? Its owner, its mission, its

productions. One of the guiding principals of our

crew, the material it is made of? Also, if you take all of

company is not to try to change flamenco to fit the

the discarded old planks, and make another ship, is

stage but to creatively change the stage to fit what

that one now the original?

we consider the heart of flamenco.

This paradox that examines authenticity and

Over 20 years of being involved in flamenco, and

identity through change has been intriguing

most of it from the very source in Andalucia, one’s

philosophers from Plutarch to Thomas Hobbes. I came

idea and understanding of the artform changes and

across it in a friend’s noir novel The Man in The Corner

evolves and one starts to really cherish the intangible

(by Nathan Besser) and it struck me as a very

authenticity of it. Providing a context for this is always

interesting idea for a Puerto Flamenco show.

a challenge, especially when you try to push into

Flamenco as a genre is going through its

territory that in its form has very little to do with the

changes. The original context for its appearance as

traditions of the genre. Pre-recorded and live

one of the world’s first fusion genres from Gitano,

projections, synth-based music, phone apps,

Moorish, Sefardi, Andalus, and African people and

minimalist music concepts will all feature in the

culture, was deeply rooted in oppression and hardship.

production alongside the cutting edge of pure

Although the life in 2017 is dramatically different to

flamenco from Seville.

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

33

DANCE

What made you decide to collaborate with Antonio Molina? Is this the first time you’re working with him?

Antonio Molina ‘El Choro’ has been steadily rising on the flamenco scene for several years now, culminating with his critically acclaimed show Aviso: Bayle de Jitanos at the last Bienal de Flamenco 2016. Both El Choro and Abel Harana are our favourite male flamenco dancers, and we have been lucky enough to work together over many years in the Tablao Arenal in Seville, and also in several Puerto Flamenco productions and tours. It will be El Choro’s first appearance in Malta and we are very happy to be able to bring him over, as it almost didn’t happen due to the fact that he was busy with Vicente Amigo. But, fortunately for us, a few of his shows got cancelled so he could make it. They both have such incredible knowledge of the genre and sense of rhythm and feel it is an enormous privilege and inspiration to share the stage with them.

What role will the projections and installations be playing in this production?

The intention is to present an orchestrated dichotomy between the two ships, the restored original with new planks and the re-constructed original with old planks. Neither fully representing the true ship, both as different ways of dealing with inevitability of time and attempts at grasping the essential. The projections help provide narrative context, the digital animation helping in the visualisation of the contemporary.

There is some original synth music composed by Andrej for the show, and also a piece inspired by Steve Reich’s Music for Pieces of Wood. In an interview on CBC Radio show Q, Steve Reich talks how some of his early works (Clapping Music – 1972, Music for Pieces of Wood – 1973) were actually inspired by a flamenco show he saw in Europe in the early 1970s. Given the context of the show we decided to do our flamenco take on it.

How will Felix Vazquez input be important to the show?

Felix is an amazing all rounder. He is an award-winning videographer and director, a great photographer and one of the best live sound engineers on the flamenco scene. His unique talent is to come up with very creative ways to present the cutting edge young flamenco artists in innovative videos and help technically produce live shows.

He did the photo shoot for this show and we worked together on some of the projections that will feature in the production. There are also some live projections in the show and as the show is technically more complex than usual it will be great to have him on the night.

What was the biggest challenge getting it off the ground?

Probably the availability of the cast and crew, given the dates of the show. The artists coming this year are in high demand and busy, involved in many companies and personal projects so getting them booked for the Malta International Arts Festival was a challenge and few flight tickets had to be changed. Three of them are flying straight from Malta to the Mont de Marsan flamenco festival where they perform the next day. Actual creative work, projections, music and choreography is challenging and often hard work but, always lots of fun too.

34 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

Andrej Vujicic

DANCE

“In the contrasting elements of the contemporary and traditional we can still find that which prevails” The world is changing rapidly and live shows have to compete with the incredible amounts of overstimulation and ever shortening attention spans. Flamenco comes from another era, and place, the communal, the visceral. Placing it on a stage already changes the original dynamic, so one has to tread carefully. Hopefully, in the contrasting elements of the contemporary and traditional we can still find that which prevails.

What will be your specific roles?

Being the co-directors of the company we seem to end up being involved in absolutely all of the elements of the show from idea and concept to design, music, costume and props, stage design, choreography, tech riders, promotion. There is an incredible amount of work involved and it will taken some nine months to complete, constantly looking for new solutions and refining the details.

After so many years of living and working together we naturally divide the work between us, and spend days, weeks and months planning the production. Rehearsing on our individual pieces takes a long time but we also always leave several segments with very little or almost no rehearsal in order to get the real feel of focus, intuition and improvisation. You just can’t fake surprise so it is a genuine experience for us on stage as well as the audience. You Antonio Molina

really have to know and trust each other artistically and on a personal level to be able to throw yourself in the deep end like that.

Both Andrej and myself will be giving a two hour Masterclass

Flamenco is often viewed as part of a tradition, yet you are giving it a contemporary feel – how do you achieve this?

As already mentioned above, this is the biggest challenge:

on July 4 as part of the Malta International Arts Festival. This will be an introduction to flamenco for anyone who would like to get inspired and gain insight into the foundations of flamenco dance,

how to place a flamenco show in a contemporary relevant context

and rhythms incorporating theory as well as a short dance and

that addresses current issues that concern or intrigue us. All this,

rhythm class. We will also be giving a flamenco workshop for kids

without breaking the delicate balance that is necessary for the

between July 5 and 7, and a more comprehensive 10-day workshop

advance of authenticity of flamenco.

for the flamenco enthusiasts from July 10 to the 21. All this is taking

There is a transformative aspect of flamenco. At its best, it

place at Alegria studios in B´Kara.

breaks individual barriers and reaches the most intimate yet universal within us. It makes people cross continents in search of its particular brand of mysticism.

There is a broad spectrum of artists currently on the scene, with many younger exponents delving into other dance styles and although remarkable in their talents and skills seem to move further away from the essential ingredient that transcends the form.

The Ship of Theseus takes place on July 1 and 2 at 9.00pm at Fort St Elmo, Valletta.

Tickets are available online. The Malta International Arts Festival is organised by the Arts Council Malta.

And yet, some artists still seem to have it in their DNA, a

http://maltaartsfestival.org;

certain wisdom and profound understanding, and even though they

http://www.puertoflamenco.com/TOUR.html

move with the trends they remain keepers of the flame.

36 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

SUMMER

Spot the jellyfish

THEY CAN BE AS PAINFUL AS THEY ARE ETHEREALLY BEAUTIFUL. SCARED OF GETTING YOUR TOES WET FOR FEAR OF GETTING STUNG THIS SUMMER? ALAN DEIDUN REMINDS US THAT THERE IS SOMEONE KEEPING TRACK OF THE LITTLE CREATURES FOR US. Jellyfish, or to call them by their more accurate name,

It’s a given that scientists cannot be everywhere all

gelatinous plankton (since some gelatinous species are

the time….this would be ideal to monitor the occurrence

actually not jellyfish), have become an indelible

of jellyfish blooms. One way to achieve such ubiquity is

component of our seas, uninvited guests within bathing

through citizen science, which involves the formal or

areas each summer. Such primitive creatures, which are

informal training of the general public to collect scientific

considered veritable living fossils, since they first

data in the field on behalf of scientists. This cost-effective

appeared over 600 million years ago (i.e. way before the

protocol is very popular, being deployed by scientists

dinosaurs), are inflicting all sorts of socio-economic

worldwide for different scopes, from the monitoring of

impacts on coastal zones around the world. The critters

bird populations to those of jellyfish, or even to alert

have a very basic nervous system, such that it’s

scientists about the levels of atmospheric pollution

frequently stated that they lack a brain, while their eyes

through their smart phone.

are very primitive, being just able to distinguish light from dark in many cases.

The stings inflicted to bathers by jellyfish each summer and the consequent impact on the touristic amenity of an area, are just the tip of the iceberg. Some gelatinous species are capable of much worse. For instance, the nomadic jellyfish, a species native of the Indian Ocean which has entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal in the early 1970’s and which can reach the size of a large football, regularly shuts down electrical power stations in Israel by clogging the cooling water intake pipes, and closes down beaches in view of its nasty sting. The warty comb jelly (also known as the sea walnut) has crippled the anchovy and sardine fisheries in the Black Sea ever since its inadvertent introduction, through shipping, from North American waters. Severe jellyfish impacts on fish farms, such as salmon ones in Ireland, are also not unknown.

38 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

The Spot the Jellyfish campaign has been conducted since 2010 by the Physical Oceanography

SUMMER

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

39

SUMMER

in the form of posters and leaflets distributed amongst all local SCUBA diving clubs and other stakeholders, including the Malta National Aquarium and Esplora.

Jellyfish sightings can be reported online by visiting an ad hoc campaign website – www.ioikids.net/jellyfish – they can also be submitted through an SMS on 79604109; by sending an email message to alan.deidun@um.edu.mt; or on the campaign’s social media page. All submitted reports can be viewed online as a summary map on the same website which depicts jellyfish occurrence and distribution on a spatial and temporal scale. The campaign is supported by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), Nature Trust (Malta), the EkoSkola network, BlueFlag, Friends of the Earth and Sharklab, with numerous talks having been delivered within schools, on beaches and during high-profile events on the scope of such a campaign.

To date, since its inception, almost 2,000 jellyfish reports have been submitted by the public and 10 species of gelatinous plankton previously unknown from our waters have been recorded, including stingers like the nomadic jellyfish, the compass jellyfish, the eggyolk jellyfish and the stunning Hula skirt and barbed wire siphonophores, but also a variety of non-stingers, including the Australian spotted jellyfish, the blue button, the crystal jellyfish and an array of comb jellies, bringing the total of jellyfish species known from our waters to around 40. Perhaps the most charismatic of all jellyfish species is the by-the-wind sailor, a veritable miniature living sailing boat which normally blooms during early spring, but which has failed to show up so far this year.

Research Group based at the University of Malta, being led by

A growing technological arsenal is supporting the scientific

myself and colleagues on the back of seed funding received from

effort to collect more information about jellyfish. A smart phone

the International Ocean Institute (IOI), an international NGO.

app (Med Jelly) was launched in the summer of 2014, giving users

Through additional financial support from the Malta Tourism

indispensable information on how to treat the stings of specific

Authority (MTA), a series of informative seaside panels have been

jellyfish species as well as useful logistical information on every local

installed on the most popular local beaches, soliciting the public to

beach, including list of amenities present on the same beach,

submit reports of any jellyfish individuals they encounter whilst

accessibility and also local weather conditions. Users can also

bathing. The same artwork as the seaside panel has been printed

submit reports of jellyfish encountered on local beaches, along

40 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

SUMMER

Almost 2,000 jellyfish reports have been submitted by the public and 10 species of gelatinous plankton previously unknown from our waters have been recorded

with accompanying photos, through the same application, which is

species. This debunks the myth that one-treatment-fits-all where

available for free download on both Android and iPhone platforms.

jellyfish stings are concerned, with a dose of vinegar being a

The Med Jelly smart phone app was developed within the

panacea for all sorts of stings, when in actual fact, the chemical

framework of the Med Jellyrisk project (funded under the ENPI-

might even exacerbate matters for such stings, such as those of the

CBCMED framework – www.jellyrisk.eu), within which the PO Unit is

common mauve stinger species, for which baking soda is the best

participating, with the assistance of the Alert Group.

treatment. Lifeguards stationed on all local Blue Flag beaches have

Within the same project, a jellyfish dispersion model is being

supplied with copies of such sting treatment booklets so that they

developed by the same University Institute, using the rationale

are well equipped to address any stings occurring on their watch.

behind an oil spill mode, forecasting the trajectory being taken by a

On average, according to statistics kept by the same lifeguards each

jellyfish bloom once it’s spotted. In so doing, the model gives three

year for Maltese beaches, around half of the injuries sustained by the

to four days notice of the beaches where the bloom is most likely to

public on the same beaches are attributable to jellyfish stings.

hit and thus providing coastal managers with welcome foresight on the same issue.

The University’s participation within the Med Jellyrisk project

The latest related contraption to be developed is a jellyfish dispersion model, again publicly available through the Med Jellyrisk project website (www.jellyrisk.eu), which gives users a three-day

has made possible the publication of a diverse array of popular

forecast of the anticipated trajectory to be taken by a jellyfish

science tools, including waterproof factsheets and sting treatment

bloom once it’s sighted within our waters, thus providing sorely-

booklets, all available for free download from the Spot the Jellyfish

needed foresight to our beach managers by underscoring the most

website (www.ioikids.net/jellyfish). The treatment advised on the

likely beaches where the bloom will make landfall. It’s quite clear –

published booklets is based on the latest scientific evidence

the monitoring of jellyfish blooms has just become a tad more

emerging within different studies and is specific to each jellyfish

sophisticated!

42 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

CIRCLE PROMOTION

The colours of summer THE NEW DIEGO DALLA PALMA MILANO SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTION 2017 IS CHARACTERISED BY A FRESH, YOUNG FEEL. Think fresh and young, purples and pinks, and a strong personality that transmits energy and joy. This is the look to go for this spring and summer, with the new Diego Dalla Palma

Gianluca Oddi, International Make Up artist and Beauty Consultant, applying the Diego Dalla Palma Spring Summer 2017 look

make-up collection bringing shimmer and seduction to your style.

Eyes are defined and highlighted by the Water Resistant Eyeliner in two colours: black and purple. Creamy and smudge-

Purple Volume Mascara is intense and sleek, evenly combing the lashes while giving them strength and elasticity.

Lips are full and smooth lips thanks to Sugar Lip Scrub, a gentle

proof, the colour is rich and vibrant since the first application.

scrub that exfoliates the lips, making them soft and smooth. For more

Thanks to the innovative applicator you can create both thin and

hydrated lips, use the Peach Lip Balm. Finally, there’s the Shade Of

high definition outlines.

Purple Lipstick, with its matte, colourful, uniform and long lasting

Eyes are lit up with Shade Of Purple Eye Shadow, a duo

application without smudge. Ultraviolet Geisha is the liquid lipstick

compact powder that is easy to blend and comes in two colours:

option, colouring the lips with an intense and super trendy cyclamen

dark purple and natural pink, for an immediate and flawless colour

purple.

release and long-lasting adherence.

The eyes are underlined with Eye Powder Kajal, a soft

The face is naturally shiny thanks to BB Cream 5 In 1 SPF 15, the exclusive light foundation with five actions in one: moisturising,

powder for the inner eye edge. The innovative applicator is

illuminating, anti-oxidant, anti-UV and anti-imperfections for a

extremely easy to use and you can create different long lasting

flawless finish complemented by Toffee Rose Blush, with its soft and

looks, from natural to intense.

light texture for a natural look.

Complete the eyes with Skin Colour Eye Pencil in nude pink, applied on to the inner eye edge to illuminate and enlarge the eye.

The hands follow the collection mood with two different shades: Purple Rain and Red Berries Nails.

www.diegodallapalma.com Exclusively distributed by Chemimart. Tel: 21492212 JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

45

LIVING

AN OUTSTANDING VENUE Providing an outstanding, unique and original alternative to the average events venue is The Club House, with the adjoining Vault and Penthouse. These venues are steeped in history and provide a location with character. The Club House is a purposefully converted hunting lodge, whose origins date back to the time of knights, around the 16th Century. Above The Club House is the beautiful open-air Penthouse venue, providing a truly unique 360 degree panorama across Malta with views up to Mdina. Perhaps, the true gem of the location lies in The Vault: the subterranean venue adjoining The Club House. Ample outdoor space surrounding the venue provides limitless parking. Drop the team a line on hello@innoventmalta.com or call on 9974 8923 to book your show round.

FROM BEAN TO MACHINE Delonghi’s Dinamica, a fully automatic bean-to-cup coffee machine, can serve a wide variety of traditional beverages. Your chosen coffee beverage can be enjoyed with just one touch or through the Drink Menu on the new LCD display. You can also personalize each beverage, adjusting aroma and coffee/milk quantities, to enjoy drinks that perfectly match your taste!

Available from Ultimate shops at San Gwann, Paola & Qormi or online on www.ultimate.com.mt

A DRINK FOR A GOOD CAUSE Campari®, Italy’s iconic red bittersweet apéritif, announces the return of Negroni Week with Imbibe USA. Now in its fifth year, the week-long international charity initiative will take place from June 5 to 11, with bars and restaurants from across the world coming together over the classic Negroni cocktail – an iconic mix of Campari, gin and sweet red vermouth – to raise money and awareness for great causes. Follow Campari on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and Imbibe (@Imbibe). Campari is marketed and distributed by Farsons Beverage Imports Co. Ltd. http://www.negroniweek.com.

46 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

FOR YOUR FURRY FRIENDS Very small dogs have unique physiological traits, such as jaw size, bone strength and sensitive digestive systems, which can benefit from specialized nutrition. Royal Canin XSmall is a full line of formulas designed to meet the particular needs of your tiny dog at every life stage, helping regulate intestinal transit, supporting high-energy needs and offering a complete and balanced nutrition. Moreover, the kibble helps reduce tartar formation; the range also features an extra small kibble designed for the miniature jaw of dogs less than 4kg. Exclusive, highly palatable formula satisfies the fussy appetites of very small dogs. X-Small Adult is for extra small dogs (weight up to 4kg) from 10 months to 8 years. E-mail sales@borg-cardona.com or call 2141 4753 for more information.

SATIRE

Laughing about

politics AS MALTA COMES OUT OF ONE OF THE MOST FIERCELY-DEBATED ELECTIONS IN ITS HISTORY, MICHAEL FENECH, THE MAN BEHIND BLA KONDIXIN AND THE PRODUCER OF ADULT PANTO, TELLS IGGY FENECH WHY SATIRE IS SO IMPORTANT TO DEMOCRACY. If this election has shown us anything, it’s how important it is to discuss politics. In fact, whatever the result will be this afternoon or evening, the truth remains that we must speak out about what is happening all around us; after all, politics aren’t so much about MPs in Parliament as they are about our daily lives, and everything else that stems from that.

And one way of commenting is through satire – the art of using humour, irony and exaggeration to comment about current issues, something Michael Fenech has used for over four decades through popular productions like Bla Kondixin, which he writes and directs, and The Adult Panto in summer, which he produces.

Michael’s theatrical career took off when he formed part of a group of idealistic youngsters who got together to form Ateatru back in the early 1980s. Together, they revelled in presenting socially and politically committed drama at a time when Malta was in continuous political turmoil. His ethos for speaking out has never changed, and he’s always sought to include satire in most of his work. So much so, that in 1987 he co-wrote and directed parts of the ground-breaking, satirical TV programme Aħna Aħna Jew m’Aħniex?, which set new standards of humour and satire at a time when state broadcasting was unloved and untrusted.

“Satire works when it is relevant; when it speaks to, and on behalf of, people,” Michael explains. “That moment

48 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

SATIRE

of instant recognition by the audience of what is being satirised and the issues involved, is where it all happens. That particular moment, in fact, is important in gaining the engagement of the audience, which feels empowered by being able to laugh at their ‘superiors’… Ridicule, in other words, is a powerful weapon, and people need the power given by satire to take down the ‘big heads’ a notch or two.

Yet Michael also understands the importance of satire in a context. From Shakespeare’s use of drama to comment about religion in 16th century England, to how Saturday Night Live talks about Trump’s America through TV, the key to getting a message across is in the medium… And theatre has proven to be a very strong medium, with Bla Kondixin going from strengthto-strength over the past 16 years, starting from a production for a rather niche market to one of the best-known productions on the island. And, of course, the Adult Panto, whose next edition based on the story of Little Red Riding Hood, kicks off in five days’ time at Spazju Kreattiv in Valletta.

“We never planned for the Adult Panto to be so close to the election, but we’re fine with that happening,” Michael says when asked whether it was a deliberate move or not. “Having said that, when it comes to politics, what better way is there to get-over an exhausting political campaign than a satirical ‘purge’ just a few days later? There has never been a satirical show in Malta so soon after an election and we anticipate lots of new elements to be introduced to the show in these last few days as the political news develops. Moreover, I feel that the Adult Panto is the ideal way for

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

49

SATIRE

People should still be able to discuss matters rationally, no matter what people to come together after the election – people should still be able to discuss matters rationally, no matter what.

“And, yes, all this may sound a bit preachy, so it is important to remember that the Adult Panto is what it states on the tin, a pantomime for adults, with the naughty aspect of the show taking over… Some might even call that aspect overwhelming!”

With a script written by Steve Hili, and in the time-honoured tradition of the Adult Panto, Little Red Riding Hood is expected to be silly, absurd, naughty and hilarious, with audiences in the intimate theatre at Spazju Kreattiv encouraged to participate ‘panto-style’ by booing the baddie and cheering the goodie. But the Adult Panto, much like Bla Kondixin, is not a production that takes itself too seriously – after all, this is satire not news, though some recent news could easily make it to the script without any changes!

The playful nature of the characters, and the in-your-face naughtiness, are part of why the production has become so popular.

It allows adults to be immature and silly, and the references to politics resonate in their relevancy, currency, and also in their humour.

“There will also be some very funny songs that the audience will pick up immediately, including mock-ups of famous campaign songs, and the dancing element is in the very capable hands of Undine LaVerve, Malta’s foremost burlesque artiste. And the actors are all seasoned comedians and include Malcolm Galea as the insatiable Dame, Taryn Mamo Cefai in the title role, Larissa Bonaci as the Principal Boy, Ronnie Hood (Robin Hood’s younger brother), Joe Depasquale as the Big Bad Wolf, Joseph Zammit as the sly fox, and magician Gwilym Bugeja as the genie. So, in all honesty, it’s as much about pure fun as it is about satire!”

And that’s the important thing about satire, and why the genre has stood the test of time. Satire offers something different; it is

Little Red Riding Hood is being produced by Ants in Pants and runs on June 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24 and 25 at Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier. Tickets are available online or by calling on 2122 3200.

liberating. It provides a safe space to ridicule pompousness, and to laugh at the silliness of our posturing. And that is something that each of us needs to support.

50 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

www.kreattivita.org

DemajoWinesandSpirits.com

PERSONALITIES

Hey, good-lookin’ MOIRA DELIA SHARES SOME OF HER STYLE SECRETS WITH SUNDAY CIRCLE.

52 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

PERSONALITIES

How do you describe your style?

It all depends on the occasion however, now more than ever before, I think a woman’s femininity is important and this is defined through simple, classy clothes. I believe a woman can look sexier in a long dress rather than a tight, skimpy number!

What makes a woman look good?

A long, colourful dress makes a woman look good; long, wide box trousers make a woman look taller and slimmer; and a figure-hugging, knee-length plain black or white dress will make any woman look good! Finally, a woman looks good and confident when she is comfortable with what she is wearing.

Do you follow fashion trends?

I do, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are all suitable for me or to my What is your favourite summer look?

Do you have any favourite outfit?

liking.

My favourite summer look would be

I have a few favourite outfits! I think I What do you look for in an accessories brand?

Definitely something that

look my best in long, figure-hugging

light, long white dresses. White shirt on

dresses similar to the one I wore to host the

denims always make a good match too! I

opening of the Junior Eurovision 2014. My

love white, especially in summer.

complements what I’m wearing. My moods

white, wrapover, comfy catsuit is another

vary and I can go for the dainty Pandora to

favourite! On the other-hand since I train

the chunky Uno de 50… or even something

every day, I tend to opt for the sporty look

in between!

for during the day. I love my trainers too!

Do you have a different style when you’re working and not?

My TV programme, Animal Diaries, is a late Saturday afternoon show and I like

Which are some of your favourite jewellery and accessory brands?

When I opt for a more edgy style, I

And accessories?

going for the casual smart look. I also tend

I love wearing Pandora as my

to opt for flats most of the time. So in and

everyday jewellery, as you can dress them

cool!

wear my Uno de 50 necklace and bracelet,

up or down and they go perfectly well with

because they have that super cool rock

the white, wrapover catsuit, keeping the

vibe. If I need to dress up for a glam event,

style both classy and feminine with a touch

then I’ll wear my Obaku watch and pair it

of sexiness. I also love my Ice-Watch - I

with some Eclat jewellery.

wear my ICE duo watch during my daily

natural as possible, that to me doesn’t

training session.

require high maintenance! I hardly wear any

Do you change your look according

There are two things I hate the most – high, bulky big boots or shoes with large

Absolutely not! I like looking as

make up during the day, and if I do I stick

Is there anything you would never wear?

Would you consider yourself highmaintenance?

to light and natural.

to season?

I have been travelling quite a lot lately

and heavy platforms, and tight, tiny mini

and, without wanting I end up looking for

dresses.

what’s new every season! It’s quite irresistible!

What is the one thing you are never seen without?

Two things; mascara and lip balm.

I think a woman’s femininity is important and this is defined through simple, classy clothes JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

53

STYLE

Attire: Denim Shirt, Jumper, flowered swimming-trunks and sandals; all Ralph Lauren at Bortex Watch: Omega Planet Ocean available at Diamonds International Specs: model’s own

54 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

STYLE

WHOEVER SAID THAT MALE FASHION HAD TO BE BORING? IT'S ALL ABOUT ATTITUDE AND CONFIDENCE THIS SEASON.

Photography Luke Testaferrata Moroni Viani (FB: Luke Testaferrata Photography) Art direction and fashion consultant Noelene Miggiani Models Robert@supernovamodel.com Make-up Alexia Kind Location Mio Amore, Sunseeker Manhattan from the Azure Ultra motor yacht collection in Birgu Marina

Noelene Miggiani is an entrepreneur. She is well known to the fashion crowd for her contribution to the fashion industry. She has produced and presented several fashion and lifestyle TV programmes. Two of her latest large-scale events are Gran Gala Della Moda for Malta Fashion Chamber and The Malta Television Awards. Noelene co-owns and manages Supernova Model Management Luke Testaferrata Moroni Viani is a fashion photographer based in Malta. He has worked under other top fashion photographers to enable him to manipulate light to create his own unique style without compromising the quality of the image.

JUNE 2017 âˆŤ Sunday Circle

55

STYLE

Attire: Striped shirt, jumper and bermuda shorts; all Fynch-Hatton at Bortex Deck shoes: Timberland at Bortex Watch: Omega de Ville available at Diamonds International

JUNE 2017 âˆŤ Sunday Circle

57

STYLE

Attire: Trousers, doublebreasted jacket, cravat and hanky; all Gagliardi at Bortex Watch: Jaeger Le Coultre Reverso available at Diamonds International.

Sunglasses: Calvin Klein at Sunlab Bag: Mont Blanc MeisterstĂźck available at Diamonds International and HEBE MIA

58 Sunday Circle âˆŤ JUNE 2017

STYLE

Attire: Striped top and jeans; Ralph Lauren All above at Bortex Watch: Omega Constellation Globemaster available at Diamonds International Sunglasses: Gucci at Sunlab

JUNE 2017 âˆŤ Sunday Circle

59

STYLE

Attire: Blazer, bermuda shorts, waistcoat, linen shirt, bowtie, hanky, belt and shoes; all Gagliardi at Bortex Watch: Omega Speedmaster available at Diamonds International Sunglasses: Hugo Boss at Sunlab

60 Sunday Circle âˆŤ JUNE 2017

CIRCLE PROMOTION

A success story JOHNATHAN CILIA FINDS OUT ABOUT THE HISTORY THAT LED TO GREENS SUPERMARKET GROWING INTO A STATE-OF-THE-ART HYPERMARKET. For many Maltese families, Greens Supermarket is the supermarket they call home. With a reliable reputation built over decades, an

near the entrance, enjoying a coffee in the newly opened café’/bistro.

Having originally been selling fruit and vegetables from the

incredible choice of fresh food items, and a friendly and helpful staff,

back of his van, sitting in the brand new hypermarket is testament to

Greens Supermarket has set the standard for quality in supermarkets.

the family’s dedication to quality and growth.

Last November, Greens opened up their new hypermarket,

The recently opened hypermarket has already left its mark on

located just one street away from their well-known location in Swieqi.

customers, with positive feedback from many people saying how

This impressive new hypermarket features everything a modern family

comfortable they feel at Greens.

needs – and more.

But the story of how Greens developed over the years into the

One way this can be done is through the choice of imported products. “We mainly import direct from the UK, Italy, and Holland, and

well-priced and well-stocked hypermarket shouldn’t be overlooked, as

a few other countries – Maltese people like these three countries the

Joseph Sammut explains.

most as they’ve had a big influence on Malta, and they prefer products

“My father had a van that he used to sell fruit and vegetables in St. Julians and around that area,” explains Joseph. Joseph is one of

from these countries more than anywhere else,” explains Joseph.

“Furthermore,” continues Joseph, ”now that we can buy more in

three brothers who runs Greens supermarket after their father set it

bulk with the hypermarket we are giving even better prices and

up. “At some point he decided to open up a small grocer, near Jessie’s

discounts than before.” Combined with a very attractive loyalty

Bar, a small mini-market at street level around 1985, and it was

scheme, this means some of the lowest prices on the island. But

successful.”

Greens’ cost-effectiveness isn’t the only attraction – the variety of

This small grocer’s success in the area meant that a lot of competition soon opened up, which led to Joseph’s father opening up

products and different sections are a great reason to visit Greens.

As soon as you walk in there is a very welcoming and colourful

the old Greens supermarket, expanding it to another floor and

display – the bakery where they bake their own bread and sweets, the

another three levels in the back by the 1990s. By then, the three

fruit and vegetable section which they are known for, with exotic and

brothers had become involved, with Joseph laughing that he has

strange fruit that you do not find anywhere else on the island.

been working with his father at Greens since he was a child.

“It’s a family business, the three brothers are all involved, and my father is still involved as well,” he says, pointing to his father sitting

62 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

Nearby is the newly-opened cafe'/bistro/pizzeria, with a large selection of tasty food and drinks; it is also a restaurant which its kitchen opens till 10pm. Inside the entrance is the deli island, with all

CIRCLE PROMOTION

(From left to right) Joseph Sammut, Charles Sammut, Matthew Sammut & Martin Sammut.

the cold cuts and cheeses you could want. Across from the deli is the butcher and a fish shop where one can have the fish cooked in a variety of ways.

You can walk in, choose your fish and method of cooking, head into the store and get your shopping done, later pick up your freshly cooked fish just as you are leaving with ultimate ease.

Greens has also opened up a new e-commerce section, www.greens.com.mt, which has received a very positive response from customers.

A new marine section also caters for private yachts, providing yet another service to the customer. They also have their own brand of food items, fresh fruit and vegetables in ready-sliced packages and ready-to-go meals.

They’ve also recently added the wine cellar, known as the Greens’ Wine Cellar, with a large variety of local and foreign wine that caters for all budgets.

The old Greens store had a big parking problem, but that’s now been resolved with three levels of free parking for customers. And the amenities do not stop there – customers can enjoy free Wifi as well when shopping at Greens.

Greens has also noticed changing diets and food trends and has adapted accordingly, offering a health section they call the Organic and Free From section. It is so large it can practically be it’s own shop, with an arrangement of breads, pastas, condiments and much more to be tried.

Open everyday till 10pm, and till 9pm on Sunday, you can visit Greens at almost any time you want. But for Joseph, the goal is simple. “I am just happy,”

Greens Supermarket, Triq Il-Uqija, Swieqi, SWQ2333

he says with a smile, “when I see a customer leaving and I hear them say “wow,

TEL: +356 21377247 / +356 21383856

this is one of the best supermarkets on the island”.

EMAIL: info@greens.com.mt

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

63

SPORT

FOR THE LOVE OF

RUNNING THE ONLY MAN ALIVE TO WIN AN OLYMPIC GOLD MEDAL AND ALSO FINISH IN FIRST PLACE IN THE INFAMOUS BOSTON MARATHON, RUNNER GELINDO BORDIN NOWADAYS DEVOTES HIS TIME TO MENTORING YOUNGER RUNNERS. JOHNATHAN CILIA CATCHES UP WITH HIM ON THE GOZO MARATHON TRAIL. The final moments of the marathon race of the 1988 Seoul Olympic

The Italian Olympian, now aged 58, is the only man alive to have

Games are essential watching for a visual lesson in perseverance

won an Olympic gold medal as well as finishing in first place in the

and determination. Entering the final kilometre of the 42.195km

Boston Marathon, one of the World Marathon Majors. Having run the

endurance test, the runner Hussein Salah from Djibouti was leading,

distance in an incredible athletic career between 1986 and 1992, which

with Douglas Wakihuri from Kenya and Gelindo Bordin from Italy

saw him compete in and place first in marathons all over the globe, he

both hot on his trails.

now works with the Italian sports goods company Diadora as

Salah keeps looking back with a worried look on his face – as the race leader in the final kilometre, he has the most to lose – and each look back seems to give Gelindo another boost.

Soon enough, Gelindo overtakes Salah – as does Douglas –

marketing manager and sponsorship consultant, travelling to countries and to sports events on the lookout for top athletes to work with.

Indeed, he finds himself in Malta, not for the first time, for the recent Teamsport Gozo Half Marathon. “I think they are doing great

and Gelindo totally outstrips the other two runners to re-enter the

things in Gozo,” he says warmly. “I love the course they have there,

Olympic stadium alone, to win the gold medal at the 1988 Olympic

that’s why I came back to run again: you can see the sea, the town,

Games.

and the inhabitants, and that’s real. I think it’s a great thing, as well as

“Salah was a slow runner towards the end,” Gelindo laughs, sitting in the offices of Teamsport in Iklin, looking back on the most important race of his life. “Douglas, on the other hand, was very

great promotion for the country – the atmosphere was amazing, and I hope they do the fireworks at the end again, I loved them.”

The road to the 2017 Teamsport Gozo Half Marathon has been a

strong at the end. When Salah arrived near the end he really came

long one indeed, and started more than three decades earlier, high in

out strong – he was trying to kill us. But I kept my cool, even though I

the northern mountains in the province of Turin, an area known as

was furious!” he laughs again.

Sestriere.

“Before the Olympics we used to go to train in the US or Switzerland, but we had a real problem with the food there,” says the Italian with a sincere look. “Then I discovered this place - this area was a very popular ski resort in winter, and very popular with the Agnelli family, but in summer it was empty. There’s an area there that’s 1,400m above sea level, and goes up and down very well...back then it didn’t look so bad but today it looks really hilly to me!”

Gelindo and his team began training in the mountains of Sestriere, hundreds of metres above sea level. Since his popularisation of the area as a training ground for athletes, scores of aspiring top level athletes now head for his trodden paths, hoping to achieve the same results that he did.

They’ve since even named a road in the area after him – “a flat area, thankfully,” he says in jest.

After finding a superb training area in Italy – with the essential good food that is a pre-requisite for any decent training camp – Gelindo and his team starting looking towards some full marathons to begin entering.

64 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

SPORT

“1986 was a really important year for me, I started to gain my confidence,” he says. “I had entered sports really late, at age 24 – I used to be a designer before that. Then I told my coach in 1984 that I was ready to leave my job and go full time, but only if we aimed for the top.”

Incredibly, Gelindo suffers from anaemia, a condition that causes a deficiency in red blood cells. This drastically lowers a person’s blood’s ability to transfer oxygen – an essential function for long distance runners.

“I had problems with the condition, sure.

Some days I’d feel weak because of the haemoglobin, of course. But I still won the Boston Marathon and the Olympics with a low haemoglobin count. I just built up strength for it, especially in 1986 for the European Championships.”

Training at high altitudes like in Sestriere was one effective method of combatting his low haemoglobin count, but Gelindo knows the real battle was in his mind, as he recounts in the 1987 World Championships.

I still won the Boston Marathon and the Olympics with a low haemoglobin count. I just built up strength for it “It was August, a very hot day, and normally I don’t do well in hot conditions,” he says. “I looked to the rest of the runners who would take the lead – from Kenya, the US and Australia – and when we started, I lost sight of the leaders immediately. My coach screamed at me halfway through, he woke me up, and I sped up over 10km, maybe a bit too much, but I got into third place. It was a very important race for me – I learnt to beat the heat, and I realized I could do so if I wanted. If I was able to finish this challenge I knew I could do any marathon.”

“It was the most important conquest for me.

You can compete with anyone, but with the heat and your mind it’s going to be much harder,” he continues. “When you run a marathon, you spend hours concentrating, to compete with people pretty much equal to you. In the Olympics the

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

65

SPORT

guy behind me lost by 14 seconds, so I knew we needed to really look at the other runners and see how to overcome them.”

“Still,” he stops for a moment and says clearly: “There is only one way to train for a marathon – you’ve got to train a lot, and for a long time.”

After placing first in the marathon at the Seoul Olympics, Gelindo knew what had to come next. “In my life I had two dreams.

The Olympics were my big motivation and my dream was to go to the US and take Boston. Knowing I was going to compete with some of these crazy guys also pushed me.”

Gelindo competed in the Boston marathon, placed first, and obtained the fastest time up until that point. He spent a couple of months in America to enjoy the win. “Americans are strange. They really started respecting me after I took Boston, not the Olympics, by paying for my food, my drinks – a taxi driver even gave me a free ride!”

The same year as the Boston marathon, 1990, he competed and

need many runners and then you choose the best. We need to start with the younger generations, take them in and train them up.”

placed first in another European Championships, as well as the Venice

He also laments some young athletes’ mindsets: “The problem is

marathon. “I won the Venice marathon, but it was the last time I won a

always in the mind. They just think to themselves that the Kenyans are

competition. I had told the press after Venice that I really hoped this

different and better. And that’s exactly how you lose.”

was not too much for me. But it was. I had a strange feeling at the

He points out specific projects in the US, in places like Colorado,

end. Normally you are drained and your muscles are hurting, but this

that are expressly aimed at training top athletes up from a young age,

time my bones were hurting.”

and hopes Europe follows suit. As for his work with Diadora, he is

Having pushed his mental and physical limits for years,

aiming for 2018 “to be the tennis year for us”, with renewed

culminating in his winning of three full marathons in the space of just

investment in programmes and even street races for both genders to

one year, he finally left the world he made his name in to promote

increase participation, as well as increased collaboration with groups –

sports worldwide. While he personally sponsors a couple of athletes,

like the Maltese Darmanin family – to promote athletics.

his real goal nowadays is helping Europe become a leader in athletics once again.

“Europe is doing very badly right now; Ethiopia is doing very

As he looks forward to helping younger athletes learn how to compete and better their game, just as his coaches once did with him, Gelindo Bordin is clear about why he still does the work he does.

well. They don’t have as much resources as Europe, so they just run.

“We don’t do it just for the athlete, but for the people who really love

The problem with Europe is to get a good runner you need mass, you

the sport.”

66 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

HEALTH

The heart of the matter HEART FAILURE IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST KILLERS IN TODAY’S SOCIETY, YET FEW PEOPLE ARE AWARE OF CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT. THE RECENT EUROPEAN HEART FAILURE AWARENESS DAY SAW VARIOUS HEALTH PROFESSIONALS IN MALTA RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT HEART FAILURE. With one to two per cent of the population in Malta suffering from heart conditions, awareness about heart failure is a must. To mark the occasion of European Heart Failure Awareness Day 2017, which took place on May 5, the Maltese Cardiac society and health promotion & disease prevention directorate, in collaboration with Novartis, organised a series of activities to raise awareness about heart failure with the Maltese public. across Europe, 15 million adults live with heart failure and at least one in five people are at risk of developing the condition. These figures make heart failure a major health issue, yet most people do not know what it is and would not recognise symptoms if they had

dietary guidelines issued by the health promotion & disease

them. as dr Robert Xuereb, Maltese Cardiac society president,

prevention directorate. For those struggling to give up bad habits

stated, more people are afraid of stroke, heart attacks and advanced

like smoking and unhealthy eating, the directorate runs a series of

cancer, even though heart failure is a bigger killer.

self-management programmes where participants learn various skills

The highlight of the series of events were educational lectures that were held at Mater dei hospital. The lectures, entitled ‘The heart Failure Epidemic in Malta’ and ‘protect your heart – the

to help them regain control over their lives. These programmes are offered free of charge in various localities. a number of initiatives were also organised as part of the drive

Mediterranean Way’, were held by dr Xuereb, president Maltese

towards awareness about heart failure; the heart Failure Clinic and

Cardiac society and by dr paula Vassallo, health promotion &

the Cardiac Rehabilitation teams at Mater dei hospital assessed the

disease prevention directorate director, respectively.

risk of heart failure by checking weight and body mass index, waist

“in Malta, heart failure is one of the leading causes of

circumference, blood sugar levels and blood pressure. The health

hospitalisation and prolonged hospital stays,” dr Xuereb explained

promotion Unit were also on site to promote the various educational

when talking about the causes of heart hailure. Common symptoms

programmes available and provide advice on the importance of

include shortness of breath, swelling of the feet, ankles or abdomen

weight control, diet, exercise, smoking cessation, diabetes, blood

and fatigue; dr Xuereb stressed the importance of seeking medical

pressure and cholesterol control.

advice upon experiencing these symptoms.

who are diagnosed early, follow their treatment and make lifestyle

What you need to know

changes can live longer, feel better and be more active. dr Xuereb also

• due to an ageing population and risk factors such as obesity and

referred to the medication sacubitril / Valsartan, a game-changer that doesn’t only alleviate symptoms but also treats the condition itself, due to a unique mode of action which is thought to reduce the strain on the failing heart. This translates into a reduced mortality rate, less rehospitalisation and an improved quality of life for patients. during her lecture, dr paula Vassallo, focused on the importance of a healthy lifestyle and Mediterranean diet, following

68 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

lifestyle, the number of people diagnosed with heart failure is expected to increase by more than 25% before 2030.

• heart failure is a debilitating and potentially life-threatening condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood around the body.

• self-management is key: learn to recognise symptoms and know when to seek help.

This is a paid FEaTURE

although at present there is no cure for heart failure, patients

ANIMAL WELFARE

Strays on the sister island WITH LIMITED RESOURCES AND AN EVER-INCREASING NUMBER OF DOGS AND CATS TO REHOME, THE GOZO SPCA IS WORKING MIRACLES TO CURB THE PROBLEM. JOHNATHAN CILIA REPORTS. The stray problem in the Maltese Islands is known to all. And, if it’s

“Before we were founded there was no animal rescue service

not, a leisurely stroll through most localities will quickly make

in Gozo. Abandoned animals would remain on the street, even if

manifest before you the problems that abound. Even I find myself

injured,” explains Mark Thorogood, part of the Gozo SPCA team.

giving a quick once-over to my car’s tyres and revving the engine

Being the only organisation on the island that deals with stray and

every morning due to this fact – we have a small cat village just

abandoned animals, Mark is well informed on the shortcomings of

down the road, and I would rather not start the day with a furry

the Gozitan response to a growing problem.

accident.

Whether it is cats hidden in cars for shelter, ripped rubbish

Having been founded back in 1976 by a “few people who were dedicated to improving the welfare of small animals on the island”,

bags on your doorsteps or indeed the midnight howls of felines in

the Gozo SPCA, which was initially operated as a branch of Malta

heat, the issue of stray cats and dogs running in the streets of Malta

SPCA before becoming its own entity, found itself having to tend to

and Gozo is one that needs addressing. A stray animal, especially if

not only the stray cat problem, but also the stray dog problem.

used to living with owners and a family, can easily be injured, become diseased, and be lost forever.

While in Malta there are a few brave and dedicated

“As we are the only organisation on the island, we didn’t really have much choice, and it remains that way,” explains Mark of having to deal with multiple species. “We are unable to take in adult cats as

organisations focused on tackling this issue – Carers for Stray and

we have no space or facilities for them, but we will rescue and

Abandoned Felines in Cospicua, Noah’s Ark in Mellieha, to name a

rehome as many puppies, dogs and kittens as we can find homes

few – our sister island of Gozo has a one such voluntary

for. We do, however, have an extensive neutering programme for

organization; the Gozo SPCA.

stray cats, and have a cat colony outside our centre. Also, every

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

71

ANIMAL WELFARE

adult dog rehomed from our centre is neutered, chipped and vaccinated. Both these programmes help reduce the incidence of unwanted puppies and kittens. The dog neutering is currently funded by MSPCA/Dog Trust, for which we are extremely grateful.”

While some other organisations have the premises to home tens, if not hundreds, of strays, the Gozo SPCA has to make do with what it has.

“We see ourselves as a rescue and rehoming centre, rather than a sanctuary,” says Mark. “Our size is better defined by the number of animals we rescue and rehome, and not just by how many are in our care at any one time. We find homes for around 100 dogs and 100 cats a year, but because of our small size we can only care for up to about 10 dogs and 20 kittens at a time.” he points out.

The Gozo SPCA accepts drop offs and responds to calls from the general public about a stray they might have seen; they were also recently given a boost of support when Gozo started its own animal welfare department, with an animal ambulance and personnel providing a 24/7 service, and which can be contacted on 79691717. They offer the same service as Malta has had for many years, namely picking up of injured strays, plus they will check uninjured dogs for microchips.

Before, there was no animal rescue service in Gozo. Abandoned animals would remain on the street, even if injured

72 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

ANIMAL WELFARE

As in Malta, the animal ambulance does not run a sanctuary, but provides aftercare for strays that have required veterinary care. That’s where Gozo SPCA comes in, playing their part in rescuing abandoned dogs and cats, and in helping to rehome pets that owners are no longer able to take care of.

There is another way that Gozo differs from Malta, as Mark explains. “There are very few real stray dogs in Gozo. On any day you drive around Gozo you are likely to see dogs on the street and a visitor might assume they are abandoned. In reality, almost every single one is a homed dog, whose owner allows it to roam on the street. This is illegal, but there is almost zero law enforcement on this issue. Also, practically none of these dogs is wearing an ID tag and probably few are chipped, both of which are legal requirements. Chipping can be done at any vet’s, while ID tags can be purchased from many pet shops: the Gozo SPCA sell ID tags for €3.50 or less, for the tag, engraving and postage,” he says.

In between caring for the animals, the Gozo SPCA have a legal hurdle to deal with. “One of the biggest challenges we face going forward is complying with the Sanctuaries Act,” Mark sighs. “We fully support this new law which sets minimum standards for sanctuaries, but we cannot comply without help from the Government.

We currently have no proper isolation/quarantine area, and have requested that the Government allows us to use the small piece of land opposite our centre in Victoria for both this purpose, and to provide a new outside run for our medium and large dogs.”

“Unless we are able to do this,” he continues, “we will have to stop taking in medium and large dogs, and focus only on rescuing puppies, kittens and small dogs. We also require a new van for our strays’ officer, and so are looking for sponsorship of this from either companies or individuals. A resolution to these is

How can you donate to Gozo SPCA?

our top priority in 2017. Last year was the Gozo SPCA’s 40th anniversary, and it would be very sad if our 41st year saw us forced to scale back our care for the

There are four main ways

animals of Gozo due to a lack of space or transport.”

Still, Mark and the Gozo SPCA are intent on continuing their work caring for cats and dogs, visiting schools to educate students and working with the public for the betterment of Gozo’s furry friends.

“We must thank the public for their support,” ends Mark. “Nearly all our funding is through donations, and nearly all the work we do is done by volunteers, and without that we couldn’t continue.”

1. HSBC Account Number: 071089122001 HSBC Bank Account: SPCA (GOZO) Sort Code: 44-071 IBAN Code: MT43MMEB44716000000071089122001 Swift Code: MMEBMTMT

www.facebook.com/GozoSPCA/ 2. Paypal fundraising@spca-gozo.org 3. Cheque payable to “Gozo SPCA”, and send to Gozo SPCA

By The Playing Field Victoria VCT1341 4. SMS €1.16 - 50616116 €2.33 - 50617375 €4.66 - 50618061 €6.99 - 50618904 €11.65 - 50619204

74 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

HEALTH

YOUNG AND HEALTHY WITH DISEASED TEETH As dentists, we see all sorts of dental problems. These patients fall mainly into two categories. There are those patients who suffer from developing cavities and others with gum disease. Dentists are very quick to point their finger at poor oral hygiene, but is it always to blame?

Of course, we see patients with very dirty teeth and yes, this is a cause of cavities in the teeth and inflamed gums. However, we also see patients who have dirty teeth and yet never require a filling. And others who keep their teeth very clean but still need fillings.

Predispositions and genetic traits also play a part. Predispositions include certain medical diseases and conditions resulting in a compromised immune system. These might include diabetes, HIV infections and

Extra-oral before treatment showing anterior teeth splinting with wire to reduce mobility

leukaemia. Other risk factors such as the use of tobacco and poor oral hygiene, stress and certain diets also affect the condition of your gums and teeth.

With gum disease and tooth cavities, the best preventive advice dentists can deliver, is to maintain very good oral hygiene, visit the dentist once to twice a year, use floss and stay away from tobacco and other risk factors. Remember, in almost all cases gum disease and tooth cavities can be prevented. Ask your dentist!

A CASE STUDY: A young woman in her late 40s presents herself with mobile upper

Extra-oral after removal of teeth and placement of temporary bridge

central incisors. The teeth have inclined forward and look longer than they ever have. The in-between spaces have increased and the teeth appear rotated. She is concerned that these two teeth will fall out by themselves. She also experiences pain on biting. Radiographs show generalised bone loss throughout her dentition with deep pockets around most of her teeth. However, apart from these two very mobile teeth, most other teeth were stable with little or no mobility.

The treatment started with the stabilisation of the teeth and gums. The gums required deep sub-gingival scaling and root planning. This is performed under local anaesthetic eliminating any discomfort by the dental hygienist; a very important member of the

Extra-oral after placement of final implant ceramic crowns

dental team. The upper central incisors were too diseased and therefore had to be removed. The teeth were extracted and immediately replaced with two dental implants with simultaneous bone grafting. A provisional fixed resin-bonded bridge was cemented and used during the healing process of the implants. Four months later the implants were exposed and ceramic crowns fixed onto the implants. The patient was placed on a maintenance programme and reviewed regularly.

Dr Jean Paul Demajo Dental and Implant Surgeon.

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

77

• 1-3 A seminar was recently held at the Radisson Blu Resort, St Julian’s by VJ Salomone Marketing to mark the relaunch of Thalgo in Malta and the company’s appointment as new distributor.

• 4-8 MBA hosts dinner for EBF executive committee and board members.

• 9-14 Bay Street Fashion Show - Bay Street Shopping Complex’s new addition to its yearly calendar – a fashion show featuring a multitude of the brands found at Bay Street.

• 15-17 Gulja Holland art exhibition - Private viewing of From A Distance, Gulja Holland's latest Solo Exhibition now showing at Lily Agius Gallery, Sliema.

Lara Azzopardi, Joanna Salomone, Stefy Puglisevich, Kezia Aquilina, Fiona Galea Debono and Tiziana Cutajar

Ronald Kent, Robert Kitt, Andrew Beane, Noreen Doyle, Johan Hansing, Noel Brett, Anthony Browne and Katrin Taliharm

Jose Maria Roldan (EBF Vice-President)

Deborah Saliba

10

Graziella Vassallo

Angele Satariano, Patrick Satariano and Gulja Holland

1

4

7

11

15

Joanna Salomone with Thalgo area manager Josephine Lai

2

5

Michael Kammas, Timea Kovacs-Szabo, James Bonello (MBA Secretary General), Zoran Bohacek, Irina Martseva and Levente Kovacs

Giancarlo Miranda, Gerald Resch, France Arhar, Paul Mifsud, Sebastien De Brouwer, Dorianne Chiarinotti and Henry Schmeltzer

Jade Zammit Stevens

12

Kezia Aquilina

Ivan Martin, Daniel Mark Azzopardi, Bernard Galea and Gulja Holland

8

13

16

3

VJ Salomone team with therapists

6

Alfred Mifsud, Deputy Governor Central Bank of Malta

9

Sam Vella, Paula Camilleri, Amy Sargent and Reuben Spiteri

Paula Camilleri and Clare Agius

Lily Agius and Gulja Holland

14

17

JUNE 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle

79

• 1-5 Bank of Valletta - Employees across BOV branches and units recently participated in a Dress Down Day. All employees made a small contribution to raise funds towards Puttinu Cares Cancer Support Group.

• 6-9 Eau Thermale Avène kicked off their summer launch party at Villa Arrigo with a special performance by the Comedy Knights.

• 10-11 Lierac launched their new anti-aging sun care range Sunissime on the rooftop of the Golden Tulip Vivaldi with guest speaker Pauline Caussanel from Lierac Paris.

• 12 Katrina Bugeja, winner of the Atlas ‘Make your dreams unsinkable’ competition being presented with a €500 voucher from Camilleri Marine by Jackie Attard Montalto, Atlas HR and Marketing Manager.

• 13-15 Round Table Malta 1 Annual Charity Dinner in aid of Ursuline Sisters Creche Sliema at the Xara Lodge, hosted by Oz & Jay (XFM) & entertained by Airport Impressions.

1

Berti Mercieca, Alan Bonnici, Carmel Tanti, Chris Massa, Ramon Tabone, Diane Agius, Marica Bonavia, Chiara Grech Santucci, Joanna Abdilla and Mark Fenech

Marouska Genovese, Nikita Pullicino, Geoffrey Ghigo, Maria Scicluna, Luke Scicluna and Lara Marie Cassar

4

7

Elisa McKenna, H.E. Béatrice Le Fraper Du Hellen, Jo Caruana and Nicola Warrington

Sinead Marie Caruana, Noelle Zammit, Jacqueline Scerri, Alexandra Spiteri, Cheryl Borg, Joel Falzon Debono, Jacqueline Grech and Rene Demarco

Antoinette Schembri and Lara Grech

Maja Petrovic, Eliza Vella, Antoinette Camilleri and Kirsty Camilleri

10

Ali McKenna, Diana Caruana, Elisa McKenna, Elisa McKenna, Joanne Inglott, Marthese Borg, Silvana Arena, Krista Borg, Kirsty Camilleri and Diana Raymond Debono, Melanie Galea and Pauline Caussanel Caruana

Sr. Henriette, Karl Chetcuti Bonavita and Sr. Martine

80 Sunday Circle ∫ JUNE 2017

13

Gordon Borg, Jeremy Camilleri and Petra Borg Urso

2

5

8

11

14

3

Mark Falzon. Clarisse Spiteri, Odilon Scerri, Peter Paul Borg, Patrick Scerri, Ray Debattista, Christine Scerri, Charline Magro, Lawrence Schembri, Karen Mifsud, Jesmar Spiteri and Wayne Pace

6

Ljubomir Dimitrovski, Maja Petrovic, Barbora Potasova, Elisa McKenna, Nicola Warrington, Marco Ambobati, Mhairi Quinan, Gloria Pace and Ali McKenna

Elisa McKenna, Lara Azzopardi and Alexandra Camilleri

Katrina Bugeja and Jackie Attard Montalto

George Lewis and Simon Soler

9

12

15