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6 quick takes from Netflix’s ‘Don’t Look Up’

Jan 4 2022 Share

For those who haven’t watched it yet, Netflix’s ‘Don’t Look Up’ concerns a group of scientists who discover an incoming meteorite which will, in six months, wipe out the earth and, by extension, humanity. Here are six lessons we can take away from ‘Don’t Look Up:’ 

One – misinformation is very powerful. Listening from experts trained in their field in times of crises is crucial, especially when concerning our health and survival.  Fake experts are everywhere, and reality is very tricky to navigate. This is why we need to source our data and not jump to conclusions based on beliefs and bias. 

Two – your vote counts. One of the main concerns the characters faced throughout the film was finding people in power who had interests other than that of safeguarding the common good. Your vote can stop this from happening. 

Three – What is our religious value? The movie ends (spoiler alert) with characters huddled up at a table and praying. Does this suggest that we only value religion when we need it? Or does religiosity itself trigger something within us we often ignore?

Four – The illusion of commodity usually negates the truth. The idea that our problems can be hidden behind a comfortable narrative often leads to people ignoring the facts and believe something else. 

Five – The meteorite is a metaphor for other things. Climate change and COVID-19 are real issues we are facing in our lives which are also leading to divisions. Instead they should strengthen unity, listening to facts and work towards a better future. 

Six – How will change occur? Which systemic changes need to happen to consider real issues with the attention they deserve? Criticism of the movie suggests that the satire can go deeper in offering us ways of how to deal with crisis. 

What do you think? Do you find it possible to address major issues without turning against each other? Are we capable of showing our humanity through generosity and compassion when we truly need it? 

#MaltaDaily

Investigations still ongoing in regards to accident which fatally injured Victor Calvagna

Investigations still ongoing in regards to accident which fatally injured Victor Calvagna
Jan 4 2022 Share

A recently released PR by police reveals that investigations are still ongoing as to the incident which severely injured Puttinu Cares president Dr Victor Calvagna. 

The initial press release had revealed that on the 28th of December 2021, police were informed of a traffic incident in Triq it-Trunċiera, San Pawl il-Baħar. Preliminary investigations had resulted in a 63-year-old man (Calvagna) being hit with a Mazda Demio, driven by a 31-year-old resident of San Pawl il-Baħar. 

Dr Victor Calvagna was later identified as the victim, the President of Puttinu Cares and beloved medical professional. Calvagna passed away today 4th January 2022 after he was pronounced brain dead following the incident. 

Investigations are still underway, with today’s press release stating that the magisterial inquiry and police investigations are still ongoing. 

#MaltaDaily

The 112 mobile app sends help directly to you in case of emergency

The 112 mobile app sends help directly to you in case of emergency
Jan 4 2022 Share

The 112MT app lets smartphone users request the assistance of police, ambulance, civil protection and even the army by sending the person’s GPS location. 

This app is aimed at helping save many more lives when people find themselves in emergency situationS. Available for iOS and Android smartphones, the app also allows users to send photos to police. 

It was unveiled during an event at Fgura Primary School back in 2020, marking European 112 Day. Personnel from the four emergency assistance branches showcased their services. 

The official page describes the app as being an ‘efficient means by which citizens interact and feel a sense of inclusivity in the community while enabling closer collaboration with the departments concerned.’ 

With guides via screenshots to help users utilise the app, Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri had pointed out that the 112 service had received up to 380,000 calls in 2019, with 56,000 being requests for ambulances. 

Unfortunately however, the Minister said that 79% (around 300,000) of calls were from people who were not in an emergency situation. This issue highlights, the Minister said, the importance of only dialling 112 when faced with a situation which genuinely constitutes emergency. 

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: AFM FB, Civil Protection FB

Traditional Maltese balconies to serve as stray cat shelters

Traditional Maltese balconies to serve as stray cat shelters
Jan 4 2022 Share

Various models of traditional Maltese balconies will be serving as shelter for various stray cats around the island. Through funds given from the Ministry for Animal Rights, the Marsa Local Council came up with the initiative, with Marsa Mayor Josef Azzopardi explaining to ONE News how the idea came to mind and fruition. 

‘The shelters are divided up into those which provide food and drink for cats and others which provide shelter’ he explained. ‘What’s wonderful about these shelters is that they are completely new. They were not found randomly and later transformed. They were invented by the local council.’Azzopardi went on to highlight the cultural element due to them being based upon iconic Maltese balconies, providing room for up to six cats each and nourishment. 

They were purposely made with marine plywood so as to be able to survive the elements outside and elevated off the ground so as not to suffer the cold. The Minister for Animal Rights Anton Refalo said that the funds are bing used in an innovative and useful way. He said that the Marsa council benefited from a total of €8,000 and is using them responsibly. 

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: ONE News, Josef Azzopardi FB