Alden Issues Statement After Eurovision Disqualification

Dec 17 2024

Taking to social media, singer, songwriter and would-be Eurovision Song Malta contestant Alexandra Alden explained that she understands and respects the decision taken by PBS to avoid any potential friction with Eurovision organisers.

She explained that an acoustic prototype/work in progress of her song ‘Magnolia’, filmed years ago, was in circulation online.

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A post shared by Alexandra Alden (@alexandraaldenn)

Alden asked for it to be removed, which was done immediately, as she was aware that this could impact her submission. She informed PBS, but this ‘was already too late’, explained the former X-Factor judge.

‘I perform often and trying out works in progress of songs in a low-key, informal setting helps the creative process. My new album featuring the song ‘Magnolia’ is not yet released or commercially available to the public.’

‘I would have loved to release the song now once it no longer qualifies but it isn’t even ready yet for release. So it will have to wait.’

#MaltaDaily

Educational Project To Raise Awareness About Malta’s Bee

Dec 17 2024

A project dedicated to raising awareness about Malta’s bee, officially recognised as the country’s National Insect, has reached its final stages.

Led by the Maltese Bee Conservation Foundation, the initiative focuses on educating the public about the bee’s importance through professional educational videos and a series of talks at local and regional councils.

Funded by €4,000 from the Small Initiative Support Scheme (SIS), managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS), the project began in October 2023.

At a press conference marking this milestone, Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia and MCVS CEO Mauro Pace Parascandalo praised the initiative’s success.

Dylan Farrugia, an administrator of the foundation, emphasised the vital role of funding in making the project possible and thanked local councils for supporting efforts to inform communities about bee conservation and its wider impact on biodiversity.

Minister Farrugia highlighted the project as an example of how voluntary initiatives can protect Malta’s natural heritage while fostering public education.

She reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting similar projects that promote environmental sustainability and community involvement.

MCVS CEO Mauro Pace Parascandalo expressed satisfaction with the diverse range of projects funded through council schemes, recognising the foundation’s dedication to strengthening Malta’s conservation efforts.

For more details on similar initiatives, visit maltacvs.org.

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Rare Australian Spotted Jellyfish Seen In Maltese Waters

Dec 17 2024

Posting to social media, marine biologist Alan Deidun shared photos sent to him of a rare sighting of the Australian spotted jellyfish.

The jellyfish is an alien species native of the Indian and Pacific Ocean, but a rare visitor to our waters.

‘It was first recorded in Maltese waters in 2017 by our Spot the Jellyfish campaign’, wrote Deidun.

’The good news too is that it harbours a MILD sting such that it is generally classified as a non-stinging species and not a threat to public health.’

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: Billy Gauci (via Alan Deidun)

Gianluca & Vanessa Bezzina Welcome Baby Beppe

Dec 17 2024

Taking to social media, local singer and songwriter Gianluca Bezzina announced that he and Vanessa have officially welcomed baby Beppe into the world and their family.

‘This festive season has become even more joyous’, wrote the two on social media.

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A post shared by Gianluca Bezzina (@gianlucabezzina)

‘Vanessa was, as always, amazing and is doing wonderfully! A heartfelt thank you to the incredible staff at Mater Dei Hospital for once again making this birth such a positive and memorable experience!’

The two shared an adorable photo of their newborn son resting quietly at the hospital, with another photo of the parents holding him close as their family continues to grow!

Congratulations to both of you!

#MaltaDaily