Minecraft Celebrates 15 Year Anniversary

May 17 2024

Record breaking video game Minecraft today celebrates it’s 15 year anniversary since it was first released.

The game first released on the 17th of May 2009 by Swedish video game developer Mojang Studios was originally titled Cave Game. In the original prototype players would explore a flat world filled only with cobblestone and grass in the form of pixelated, square blocks.

Little did Mojang know how the game, later titled Minecraft, would take the world by storm becoming the best-selling game of all time with a reported 300 million copies sold since release.

For the first couple of years, Minecraft was only a prototype of what it would become with various alpha and beta versions of the game being released prior to 2013 when the full game finally landed.

Over the years the game has passed through several updates and spin off videogames as well as books and millions of toys. To round things up a Minecraft movie starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa is also currently in production and set to release in 2025.

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Teachers Union Claims Discrimination After Members Denied Doughnuts

May 17 2024

The Union of Professional Educators (UPE) in Malta has raised concerns over alleged discriminatory practices at a recent COPE session held at a local Primary school.

According to a recent statement published by the UPE, staff members at the school who followed the union’s directive to abstain from attending the COPE meeting were excluded from receiving doughnuts distributed by the school’s Head and management team. This action, perceived as an attempt to penalise UPE members, has been labeled as “immature behaviour” by the union.

The UPE has condemned the incident, asserting that such actions only reinforce their resolve to combat unethical practices among public servants. The union is questioning whether similar treatment is meted out to members of other unions and suggests that this may be indicative of a broader issue of bias within the school’s administration.

In response to the incident, the UPE has announced its intention to take further action against those responsible, emphasising their commitment to ensuring fair treatment for all educators.

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29 Architects Receive Their Warrants To Start Practicing Professionally

May 17 2024

29 Maltese architects have been awarded their warrants in order to start practicing their profession professionally in a sector where demand is still as high as ever.

The warrants were awarded by parliamentary secretary for public works Omar Farrugia. During the event Farrugia spoke about how architects are not only needed for the development of the country but more importantly for the sustainable development of the country.

He went on to say “I encourage architects to be bold in their visions and not let anyone limit their dreams. Bold initiatives are the ones that change the world. The future of Malta is in their hands, and I am convinced that architects are ready to elevate the level of our architecture.”

He concluded his speech by reminding that every building they create, every space they design, is the legacy they will leave behind. It is important that this legacy reflects their passion, innovation, and commitment to the great profession of architecture.

The Chairperson of the Warranting Board for Architects, Frank Psaila, also addressed the ceremony. He explained that since the establishment of this board in August 2022, 226 warrants have been issued. He also described how, in recent years, several necessary and bold reforms have been implemented in this field.

“The reforms place responsibility on everyone, especially the architects. My appeal remains for responsibility in the decisions they make, while being proud of their profession and using it to create beauty that can be enjoyed for generations to come,” reiterated Dr. Psaila.

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Five of Europe’s Coolest Theme Parks

May 17 2024

Summer is just around the corner, and we’re certain absolutely everyone is looking forward to a holiday or two and what better place to spend it than our European home. Europe is home to some of the world’s most exciting and imaginative theme parks, each offering unique experiences and attractions. Here are five of the coolest theme parks in Europe:

Disneyland Paris, France: The magic of Disney comes alive just outside Paris, with Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. From iconic rides like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean to character meet-and-greets and spectacular parades, this park provides a whimsical escape for visitors of all ages.

Europa-Park, Germany: Situated in Rust, Europa-Park is Germany’s largest theme park. It features 15 European-themed areas, each with its own distinct architecture, food, and attractions. Highlights include the high-speed Silver Star roller coaster and the family-friendly Voletarium, a flying theater experience.

PortAventura World, Spain: Located near Barcelona, PortAventura World offers three parks in one: PortAventura Park, Ferrari Land, and Caribe Aquatic Park. Thrill-seekers flock to rides like the Dragon Khan roller coaster and Red Force, Europe’s highest and fastest roller coaster.

Prater, Austria: Located in Vienna, Prater is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Famous for its giant Ferris wheel, the Wiener Riesenrad, Prater combines historic charm with modern thrills. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, from roller coasters to ghost trains.

Gardaland, Italy: Situated by Lake Garda, Gardaland is Italy’s premier theme park. It offers a mix of thrilling rides such as the Oblivion: The Black Hole coaster and family attractions like Peppa Pig Land, providing fun for everyone.

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Each of these theme parks offers a unique blend of excitement, culture, and entertainment, making them must-visit destinations for thrill-seekers and families alike.

Have you ever visited one of these theme parks?

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