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Festive Spirits Shines Through Rain at Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

Festive Spirits Shines Through Rain at Macy's Thanksgiving Parade
Nov 29 2024 Share

Heavy rain and chilly weather didn’t stop crowds from gathering to witness the 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Manhattan. The event , which stretched 4 kilometres from the Upper West Side to Herald Square, featured a vibrant  mix of balloons, floats, and live performances.

A new addition to this memorable lineup included Spider-Man and Goku, while classic favourites like Snoopy and Pikachu where a delight for dedicated fans. Notable floats celebrated themes like the Bronx Zoo’s  125th anniversary  and a pasta-inspired creation by Rao’s. Pop icon Kylie Minogue delivered an energetic performance of her most popular tracks , joined by performances from Jennifer Hudson, Idina Menzel, and other Broadway Stars.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924 as a small procession with employees and live animals. The introduction of helium balloons in 1927 transformed it into a signature holiday event. Today, it draws millions of viewers in person and on television, marking the start of the festive season.

Despite the rain, the parade continued to captivate audiences, maintaining its status as on of Thanksgiving’s most cherished traditions.

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Australia Social Media Ban For Under 16’s Slammed

Australia Social Media Ban For Under 16's Slammed
Nov 29 2024 Share

Australia’s new law banning children under 16 from social media has sparked criticism from platforms like Meta, Snapchat, and TikTok, citing rushed legislation and unclear enforcement methods.

The law, passed on Thursday, imposes fines of up to AU$49.5 million (€30.5 million, $32 million) on platforms failing to prevent underage users from holding accounts.

Meta criticised the process for ignoring evidence and youth voices, while Snapchat raised concerns about privacy, safety, and practicality.

TikTok warned the ban could drive young users to unregulated online spaces, exposing them to greater risks.

Despite these objections, Australia’s major parties backed the ban. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended it, emphasising the need for children to focus on outdoor activities and stating, “We’ve got your back” to Australian parents.

A trial for enforcement methods will begin in January, with the ban taking full effect in a year. Platforms cannot require government-issued IDs, and violations won’t penalise users or parents.

Critics, including Green Party Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, called the law outdated and disconnected from young people’s online habits. Digital industry body DIGI also demanded clarity on enforcement.

Globally, the move reflects a growing trend, with countries like Spain, France, and China implementing or proposing similar restrictions to protect minors online.

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Three Diplomats Present Credentials to President of Malta

Three Diplomats Present Credentials to President of Malta
Nov 29 2024 Share

President Myriam Spiteri Debono welcomed two new non-resident Ambassadors and a non-resident High Commissioner  at the Presidential Palace in Valletta, where they formally presented their credentials.

The diplomats include Lauri Bambus, Ambassador of Estonia; Christophe Paul Schiltz, Ambassador of Luxembourg; and Fredrick Lusambili Matwang’a, High Commissioner of Kenya.

During their meeting, Ambassador Bambus discussed recent geopolitical developments with President Spiteri Debono, highlighting Estonia’s perspectives on global issues. Ambassador Schiltz explored the shared values between Malta and Luxembourg, emphasising both nations’ active roles within the European Union.

High Commissioner Matwang’a focused on opportunities for deeper collaboration between Malta and Kenya, particularly in sectors such as maritime affairs, tourism, and the blue economy. He also stressed the importance of strengthening ties within the Commonwealth and the United Nations.

President Myriam Spiteri Debono congratulated the three diplomats on their new roles and encouraged them to visit Malta regularly to build on the existing partnerships. She expressed Malta’s commitment to nurturing its relationships with Estonia, Luxembourg, and Kenya.

These meetings underscore Malta’s role in fostering international collaboration through diplomacy and shared values.

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‘Festa Family Tal-Milied’: A Family Celebration This December

‘Festa Family Tal-Milied’: A Family Celebration This December
Nov 29 2024 Share

Local families are being called for a special celebration on the 7th and 8th of December as ‘Festa Familja tal-Milied’ (Christmas Family Celebration) will be being held in Ta’ Qali.

The festivities will include everything from games for children and their guardians to musical spectacles, and not to mention food and drink!

The feast will be taking place in the Ta Qali National Park Concert Zone between noon and 1700hrs.

Tag someone to go with you!

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