The Cottonera Foundation, under the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government, is hosting a concert on New Year’s Eve for the third consecutive year, in collaboration with the Local Councils of Cospicua, Birgu, Senglea, and Kalkara. The event aims to bring the community together and celebrate the start of the new year in the heart of Cottonera.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, highlighted that the concert has become a popular attraction for locals, Gozitans, and tourists alike. She encouraged the public to attend, noting that such events help showcase Cottonera’s beauty and potential, offering entertainment for all ages.

Joe Mizzi, Chairman of the Cottonera Foundation, shared that the concert will feature performances by “The Drop Out Band,” Mike Spiteri, Janvil, Jade, Neville, and Maestro Joe Brown. In addition to live music, the event will also offer sea transport, alongside regular public transport options, to facilitate access.

The concert is free to attend, with support from the Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, the Malta Tourism Authority, the Local Government Division, and Heritage Malta.

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The gardens surrounding Villa Portelli in Kalkara have undergone a significant transformation, thanks to a collaboration between Project Green and Heritage Malta. The villa, a historic property dating back to the early Victorian era, was once the summer residence of businessman Agostino Portelli and later served as a residence for British admirals. The gardens, which span over 5,000 square metres, are now being restored as part of a €3 million regeneration project.

During a recent visit, Environment Minister Miriam Dalli and Culture Minister Owen Bonnici, joined by teams from Project Green, Heritage Malta, and the Kalkara Local Council, toured the grounds, which are now open to the public on a weekly basis. The restoration, guided by Heritage Malta curators, aims to preserve the historical significance of the site while introducing modern elements, including a vegetable and herb garden managed by Taste History, Heritage Malta’s gastronomic branch.

“This project touches on different aspects of human society, from offering open spaces for children to play to creating gardens that reflect our heritage,” Minister Dalli said.

Kalkara Mayor Wayne Aquilina expressed his excitement, highlighting the community’s growing access to such a meaningful site. “The gardens offer a serene space where both locals and visitors can enjoy the villa’s beauty,” he noted.

The gardens, pet-friendly and open every Sunday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, are free for all to explore.

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Maltese swimmer Sasha Gatt has made history by breaking her own National Short Course Record in the 800m Freestyle at the World Aquatics Short Course Swimming Championships in Budapest. She achieved an impressive time of 8:35.15, earning 795 FINA points—the highest ever recorded by a Maltese swimmer.

Sasha’s exceptional performance sets a new milestone for Maltese swimming, showcasing her growth and determination on the international stage.

Reflecting on her achievement, she expressed gratitude to her coach Catalin Ioan Stan and her family, whose unwavering support has been integral to her success. She also acknowledged the Maltese Olympic Committee, SportMalta’s BeActive initiative, the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta, her club Sliema ASC Panta Swimming, and her sponsor Eurosport for their contributions.

“This historic moment for Maltese swimming wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support system around me,” Gatt said.

Sasha’s record-breaking swim not only highlights her personal accomplishments but also raises the profile of Maltese swimming in international competitions.

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