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Dead Rare Angelshark Washes Up In Marsaxlokk

Dead Rare Angelshark Washes Up In Marsaxlokk
Oct 20 2024 Share

A rare common angelshark (Squatina squatina) was found dead on the shore of Marsaxlokk, Malta, as reported by the NGO Sharklab Malta.

The 101cm female shark, a critically endangered species, was likely discarded from a fishing boat due to its lack of commercial value.

Angelsharks are highly protected and adapted to blend into the seafloor, resembling rays in appearance.

The discovery was made following a report in a Facebook group, prompting a Sharklab volunteer to collect the specimen for further research.

The NGO noted the significance of the sighting, as the last known encounter with an angelshark in Malta occurred in 2009. The species faces critical threats due to bycatch in trawl and net fisheries and is nearly extinct in the North Sea and much of the northern Mediterranean.

Sharklab Malta emphasised the importance of this sighting, highlighting the ongoing presence of the species in Maltese waters and the value of citizen science in tracking such rare species.

The find adds vital information to the limited data on the critically endangered angelshark population in Malta.

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Abela Family Celebrates Wedding Anniversary And Giorgia’s Confirmation On Same Day

Oct 19 2024 Share

It’s a momentous day for the Abela family as Prime Minister Robert Abela and Lydia Abela mark the celebration of their 16th wedding anniversary, coinciding with their daughter Giorgia Abela’s confirmation.

In a heartfelt post on Instagram, the Prime Minister reflected on their journey together, saying, “Today, 16 years ago, we celebrated our marriage, and today we also celebrate this special anniversary with you, dear Giorgia, on the occasion of your confirmation.” His words beautifully encapsulate the dual significance of the day for their family.

Lydia Abela also took to social media to express her joy, sharing heartfelt sentiments about the day being particularly special. She offered her warmest congratulations to Giorgia on her confirmation, emphasizing the pride and love that enveloped their family during this memorable occasion.

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Albert Frantz Shares His Journey of Discovering His Biological Dad After 30 Years on Popolin

Oct 19 2024 Share

Yesterday on the program Popolin, international musician Albert Frantz shared his story about discovering at age 30 that he was conceived through a sperm donation. In an interview with Quinton Scerri, he opened up about years of doubts concerning his identity and the bond with his father.

It wasn’t until he was nearly 30 that a neighbor revealed the truth about his origins through sperm donation treatment.

Frantz recounted how this revelation sparked a 14-year search for his biological father, involving numerous tests and intensive research. Eventually, he managed to find his biological father, who had made several sperm donations while studying medicine, many of which were successful. A few months ago, Albert met his biological siblings, whom he said bore a striking resemblance to him.

During the interview, he shared that what moved him most was not the physical similarities, but the shared traits and interests. He spoke about his career as a professional pianist, attributing his musical talent to a natural gift likely inherited from his biological grandmother, who was also skilled at playing the piano.

Frantz discussed the range of fertility treatments available today, expressing some skepticism about the commercial practices surrounding them, especially in the United States. However, he argued that using such technology should not be considered taboo, and it can lead to highly positive outcomes.

When asked directly by the host about his views on parenthood, Frantz stated that if he were to start a family, he would prefer to do so through adoption.

The full program can be watched again on TVM’s website.

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2024 Active Aging Award Winners Announced

Oct 19 2024 Share

The 2024 Active Aging Awards recognized the dedication and contributions of individuals and organizations promoting active aging. The ceremony, under the patronage of the President of Malta, was part of October’s celebrations dedicated to the elderly.

Minister for Health and Active Aging Jo Etienne Abela and Parliamentary Secretary Malcolm Paul Agius Galea attended the event, praising efforts to enhance seniors’ quality of life and stressing the need for respect and inclusion.

Minister Abela delivered an address on behalf of President Myriam Spiteri Debono, who highlighted the importance of valuing seniors as a pillar of Maltese society.

Winners were announced in six categories: Active Aging, Innovation and Technology, Cultural Aging, Sports Aging, Volunteerism, and Intergenerational Solidarity. The honorees were: Joseph Mallia (Active Aging), Emanuel Pace (Innovation), Karmenu Mallia (Cultural), Joe Bajada (Sports), Doris Zammit (Volunteerism), and Mellieħa Home’s Janet Farrugia and Josef Zahra Cutajar (Intergenerational Solidarity).

Minister Abela reaffirmed the government’s dedication to improving senior services, focusing on preventive health measures like upcoming vaccinations.

Parliamentary Secretary Agius Galea added that these awards inspire the community by highlighting the ongoing efforts to keep seniors active and respected.

The event also featured an exhibition where seniors from various centers displayed their creativity through performances, including drama, music, dance, and poetry, showcasing their diverse talents.

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