Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1532058
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 2 FEBRUARY 2025 5 ALMANAC Nature Notebook 956. Branched Horsetail ONE distinctly weird-looking member of our flora is the branched horsetail. Horsetails have a very long pedigree: at over 350 million years old, they flourished long before nature invented dinosaurs or even flowers. It's amazing that their line has survived to the pres- ent day – no wonder they are called living fossils. We have just one species in Malta: the branched horsetail (M. denb iż-żiemel), a rare denizen of damp places like humid valleys, which is not a common habitat here. But stroll down to Wied il-Qlejgħa (Chadwick Lakes) or Wied l-Isqof and you may spot tufts of what look like ordinary clumps of dusty grass growing out of the walls. But look closer and you will notice the slender leafless stalks, topped with these eldrich lantern-like knobs. Indeed, you will be looking at what was probably staple diplodocus dinner. Friends of the Earth Malta: Climate Emotions Discus- sion Groups Climate change and environmental challenges can stir up a whirlwind of emotions and can affect your well-being in many ways. Friends of the Earth Malta has created a safe space designed and facilitat- ed by a mental health professional for individuals to come together, connect, and share their feelings in an open support group. Wednesdays | 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM at Friends of the Earth Malta, Floriana Victor Falzon, Desirée Falzon (Photo) www.birdlifemalta.org Green idea of the week 191 Learn more about the CALM-EY project and register for the next session: https://foemalta.org/event/climate-emotions-support-groups-3-3-2-2/ Don't miss this Give nature a voice. Become a BirdLife member 1. Malta Eurovision Song Contest 2025 Date: 4-8 February Location: MFCC & broadcasted on TVM The competition will consist of two semi-finals and a final held between 4 and 8 February 2025. 1. Schubert's Piano Sonatas by Francis Camilleri Date: 14 February Location: Malta Society of Arts, Valletta In a special concert this Valentine's Day, pianist Francis Camilleri performs Schubert's Piano Sonatas in an intimate recital at the Malta Society of Arts. This concert shines a light on three lesser- performed Schubert sonatas. 1. Nostalgija: A Celebration of Art & Compassion Date: 16 February Location: Caritas Community Centre, Hamrun This is more than just an art exhibition— it is a celebration of creativity and compassion. Join Caritas Malta and be part of an event that merges artistic excellence with the spirit of charity. Caritas Malta looks forward to welcoming you! 1. The Offenders with Steve Hilli Date: 20 February Location: Mount Carmel Band Club, Gzira Brace yourselves for an unforgettable night of dark humor and no-holds- barred comedy! The Offenders: A Stand-Up Comedy Night at Mount Carmel Band Club, Gzira, is not for the faint-hearted. Featuring the razor-sharp wit of Steve Hili, Malcolm Galea, and Jorgen Johansson, this show pushes the boundaries of comedy with daring, dark material guaranteed to leave you laughing and shocked in equal measure. 1. Purr-Tease: Carnival of Desire Date: 21 February Location: Tigullio, St Julians Looking for a captivating Carnival treat? Join us on Friday, 21st February at Tigullio, St. Julian's for a burlesque extravaganza hosted by Undine LaVerve, headmistress of the Burlesque Academy Malta and international burlesque star. Expect glitter, glamour, and a mesmerizing night you won't forget. This event is 17+. 1. Night At the Musicals Date: 22 February Location: Sir Temi Zammit Hall, Msida ilharmonic Band presents a musical journey from Broadway to the West End, held in support of their colleague, PC Chris Bonello, who was involved in an accident in December. 1. DIVAS II - The Dance Show Date: 7 - 16 March Location: MCC, Valletta YADA Dance Studio is bringing together people of all ages to experience a dynamic and unforgettable dance show that will captivate audiences from every generation. This exciting event is a celebration of creativity, diversity, & the incredible talent from local artists, including singers and performers who are shaping the future of the arts. 1. Wax - Groove Garden Date: 23 February Location: Groove Gardens at Gianpula Village, Zebbug Recharged and ready, the team is excited to announce their first gathering of the year—returning to their favourite winter venue, Groove Gardens. The annual February event is set to be a 10-hour daytime affair, where the local community will come together to exchange energy and dance the day away. 1. The Big International Women's Day Show Vol.2 Date: 8 March Location: Tigullio, St Julians This 8th March, International Women's Day, let's light up the Tigullio Club with fem energy once again! Get ready for a night hosted by the incomparable Pia Zammit, featuring a stellar lineup of international and local talents. Schubert's Piano Sonatas by Francis Camilleri