### **Algarve Community Choir Concert**  
The **Algarve Community Choir** will be performing a special concert this **Sunday, January 5th**, starting at **17:00** at the **Municipal Auditorium of Olhão**.  
This event promises a delightful selection of **festive songs** that resonate with our collective memory.  
![Concert Banner](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Sul-Informacao_Banner_400-pxX250px-01.jpg)  
Under the direction of **baritone Rui Baeta**, the concert aims to bring everyone together in song.  
Tickets are priced at **5 euros** and can be purchased [here](https://108.181.5.31/evento/coro-da-orquestra-do-algarve-89206?utm_source=e-goi&utm_medium=email&utm_term=%F0%9F%8E%B5+Cante+e+Celebre%3A+O+Concerto+Perfeito+para+Encerrar+o+Natal+%F0%9F%8E%84%E2%9C%A8&utm_campaign=Orquestra+do+Algarve).

Este concerto terá uma seleção de canções festivas que fazem parte da memória coletiva de todos nós

Join the Festive Celebration: Algarve Community Choir Concert in Olhão This Sunday!

### Major Findings from the Pilot Program
Nearly **8,000 parking violations** at bus stops were identified during a three-month pilot program using **Hayden AI**'s automated bus stop enforcement technology in **Braga, Portugal**. This initiative was funded through the **European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT)**'s AI Challenge competition, which both Hayden AI and Braga won in January 2024.

### Innovative Technology in Action
Hayden AI specializes in mobile perception and detection systems. Their bus-mounted technology employs **computer vision** and **edge processing** to detect both parking and moving violations in bus stops and bus lanes. For this pilot, Hayden AI's system was installed on two **Transportes Urbanos de Braga (TUB)** buses operating on specific lines. The results were staggering, revealing **7,999 bus stop parking violations** along the tested routes.

### Specific Violations Identified
One bus stop, located at **Rua Nova de Santa Cruz and Rua dos Lusíadas**, alone accounted for **2,186 violations**. Notably, no citations were issued during this pilot phase.

### Impact on Public Safety
Charles Territo, Chief Growth Officer of Hayden AI, emphasized the importance of this technology: “Obstructed bus stops create hazards for transit riders all over the world. It has been a privilege to help TUB and the city of Braga determine where these violations occur and how often.”

Braga city councilor **Olga Pereira** highlighted the dangers of illegal parking, especially for riders with mobility impairments: “That is unacceptable. We’re grateful for the opportunity to learn where, when and how frequently these parking violations occur through this pilot with Hayden AI.”

### Expanding Horizons
Hayden AI's system is already making waves in major cities such as **New York**, **Los Angeles**, and **Washington DC**. Moreover, the company has recently launched a similar pilot in **Barcelona**, Spain, focusing on automated bus lane and bus stop enforcement, funded by a €100,000 award from the **Barcelona Innova Lab Mobility competition**.

Pilot in Braga reveals large number of parking violations

Over 7,000 Parking Violations Detected at Bus Stops in Braga, Portugal: A Revolutionary Pilot Program

### A Nostalgic Journey to Lisbon's Washhouses

“**Cold water, from the stream…**”. There was a time when Lisbon was known as the “**village of white laundry**”, as Beatriz Costa sang, with locals flocking to washhouses, carrying buckets filled with clothes for the **"washwomen"** to rinse them with water, soap, or bleach in exchange for money. These washhouses were not just functional spaces but a **ritual** of daily life.

Today, most washhouses stand as mere monuments in the city, like the **Alto do Pina washhouse** in Areeiro. However, this particular washhouse has become a symbol of a contemporary struggle, as a group of Lisbon residents has initiated a **petition** to restore it.

### From Washhouse to Cultural Space

A new trend is emerging in Lisbon: the transformation of these washhouses, which are historical spaces, into **cultural venues**. The **Lumiar washhouse** serves as a prime example, hosting the initiative **Cinema no Estendal** since 2022, an annual festival of short films.

Another notable instance is the **Carnide washhouse**, which has been transformed into a venue for cultural projects and activities since 2011. Thanks to a partnership between the **Carnide Parish Council** and the **Teatro do Silêncio**, it has hosted guided tours, artistic residencies, and exhibitions.

In the **Alfama** neighborhood, the **Alfama Heritage and Community Association** has organized fado music sessions in one of the washhouses, while a proposal for a **cultural space** at the **Ajuda washhouse** won a participatory budget in 2017, although it has yet to be realized.

From community spaces still used by those without home washing facilities to cultural hubs, these washhouses continue to resist change in the city, serving as a **living memory** of a bygone era that Lisbon residents are determined to preserve.

Um grupo de lisboetas saudosos e uma petição. O Lavadouro do Alto do Pina está a levantar a memória de um tempo que já não existe em Lisboa: o das lavadeiras.

Lisbon's Historic Washhouses: A Cultural Revival Movement

### Record-Breaking Year for Portugal's Airports

In a remarkable achievement, **Portugal's airports** have **smashed passenger records** in 2024, with **Lisbon Airport** surpassing **35 million passengers** for the first time in history. This milestone reflects the increasing popularity of Portugal as a travel destination and highlights the significant growth in air travel in recent years.

### Lisbon Airport Highlights

- **Total Passengers**: **35,000,000**
- **IATA Code**: **LIS**
- **ICAO Code**: **LPPT**

![Lisbon Airport](https://static.routesonline.com/images/cached/organisation-6453-scaled-300x130.png)

Lisbon Airport, operated by **ANA Aeroportos de Portugal**, has played a pivotal role in this growth, accommodating a surge in international travelers. The airport's capacity and services have been enhanced to meet the rising demand, making it a key player in the European aviation market.

### Implications for the Tourism Sector

The record passenger numbers are expected to have a positive impact on the **tourism sector**, driving economic growth and job creation in the region. As more travelers flock to Portugal, local businesses and attractions stand to benefit significantly.

This achievement not only underscores the resilience of Portugal's aviation sector but also positions the country as a leading destination in Europe. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and services, the future looks bright for Portugal's airports and the tourism industry as a whole.

Portugal’s airports smashed passenger record in 2024; Lisbon passed 35 million for first time - Air Service One

Portugal's Airports Achieve Historic Milestone: Over 35 Million Passengers in 2024!

## Accusations of Political Motives

Pedro Ramos, the regional secretary of health, has accused Ricardo Sousa, president of the Regional Section of the Portuguese League Against Cancer (NR-LPCC), of **mixing health issues with political interests**. This accusation follows Sousa's recent interview with DIÁRIO, where he expressed frustration over the choices and priorities of Miguel Albuquerque's government.

## Criticism of the Health System

During a ceremony for the delivery of two ambulances for non-urgent patient transport, Ramos was confronted with criticisms aimed at SESARAM, particularly regarding **medication shortages** in oncology. In response, he stated: “If we look at the interventions from the head of the NR-LPCC, he talks about medications, then candidates, and other people, so he is not really talking about health.”

## Calls for Medication Availability

In Sousa's interview titled ‘“Medication must not be lacking” for cancer patients,’ he directed multiple criticisms at Albuquerque's government.

## Government's Stance on Health Solutions

Ramos downplayed the criticism from various sectors, assuring that the **Regional Government is close to finding solutions**. He described the situation as **political exploitation**, asserting that health services in Madeira are improving, even compared to the issues faced by the SNS on the mainland.

## Addressing Medication Shortages

He pointed out the **protagonists** who visit various entities, public or private, to speak about medication shortages. “If there are 100 institutions, we will have 100 days reporting shortages, even when the medications are already allocated,” he rebutted.

## Concerns Over Waste in Healthcare

Ramos expressed that his biggest concern in healthcare is **waste**. “Investment in medication does not worry me, as people need treatment. What worries me is the waste in medication.” Recent data revealed **26 tons of unused medications** in just a year and a half, with 17 tons in 2023 and an additional 9 tons in the first half of 2024.

## Sustainability in Healthcare

He concluded by emphasizing the need to consider that the **sustainability of the system depends on how we utilize it**.

Em causa recente entrevista ao DIÁRIO onde Ricardo Sousa mostrou-se revoltado com a escolha e prioridades de Miguel Albuquerque

Health and Politics Clash: Controversy Erupts Over Cancer League President's Claims

### Rising Tensions Within the Bloc

Tensions within the **Bloco** continue to escalate as a group of critics has announced their decision to **boycott the upcoming party convention** scheduled for late May. This decision comes after a recent clash over the **dismissal of workers** from the party, which has been described as the **'last straw'**.

### Reasons Behind the Boycott

The critics accuse the party's leadership of failing to acknowledge their mistakes and express deep concerns over the lack of **internal democracy**. They describe the refusal to conduct a thorough evaluation of the **dismissal process** as a significant failure and illustrate a growing divide within the party. In their statement following a national assembly, they outline their reasons for this **'difficult but conscious'** decision to abstain from nominations and positions within the party.

### Calls for Accountability

The critics state that the **'last straw'** was the **complete refusal** to hold a consistent evaluation of the dismissal process, demanding accountability both collectively and individually. They highlight a pattern of **denial** from the leadership, which they claim contradicts the reality faced by the dismissed workers. They argue that the party's leadership has shown no willingness to learn from past electoral failures or internal democratic degradation.

### A Declaration for Change

By choosing not to participate in the **XIV Convention**, the critics assert it is not an act of resignation but rather a **clear statement** that the **Bloco** must change. They describe the party as **diminished** in coherence and capability to engage with the public following recent controversies that have drawn **investigations** from the Public Ministry.

### Ongoing Issues and Leadership Responses

The critics express dissatisfaction with the party's leadership, which has refused to form an **internal inquiry committee** regarding the dismissals, while announcing updates to the staff's status. They also point out that the organizing committee for the upcoming convention is comprised solely of members aligned with **Mariana Mortágua**, limiting the representation of dissenting voices. Furthermore, they criticize the leadership for not updating the **membership registry**, which they argue unfairly benefits the majority faction and distorts electoral processes.

### Recent Resignations

Recently, four members of the critics' faction resigned from the Political Committee, although Mortágua suggested their departure was unrelated to the dismissal issue, indicating a longer-term divergence from the party’s direction.

Mariana Mortágua não vai contar com grupo de críticos na próxima convenção. Acusam direção de falta de democracia interna e de "negacionismo". E dizem que caso dos despedimentos foi gota de água.

Internal Strife: Critics of Mariana Mortágua Withdraw from Bloc Convention Over Leadership Issues

### The Shocking Reality of Drug Trade in Lisbon

In the **Picheleira neighborhood** of Lisbon, a notorious drug operation was running 24/7, generating profits of over **€3,000 a day**. The operation was heavily reliant on a network of **dozens of sellers**, most of whom were **drug-dependent** individuals, often homeless, who sold drugs in exchange for their own doses.

A key figure in this operation, known as **Mero**, had a reputation for violence and control. Witnesses reported that sellers were coerced into surrendering all earnings, with threats of severe consequences for non-compliance. One witness described how a seller, known as **Zuka**, was hospitalized after a violent incident, emphasizing the dangers of the trade.

### The Structure of the Network

The drug trade was organized with a clear hierarchy, featuring roles such as the **“boss,” the “cook,” and the “ground man.”** Law enforcement observed transactions happening openly, with one instance captured where a woman exchanged cash for a packet of cocaine in broad daylight.

In the summer of last year, law enforcement took action, arresting the network's leaders, who had been elusive and known for their violent tactics. By January of this year, **40 individuals** associated with the operation faced charges related to drug trafficking and organized crime, marking a significant crackdown on this pervasive issue in Lisbon.

A rede operava no bairro da Picheleira, em Lisboa, com dezenas de vendedores, a maior parte toxicodependentes. Funcionava 24 horas por dia com sete a oito abastecimentos de cocaína.

Inside the Drug Trade: How Lisbon's PSP Took Down a Major Cocaine Operation

### **Hugo Veiga’s Remarkable Journey**  
After **20 years abroad**, **Hugo Veiga**, the most awarded Portuguese creative, is back in Portugal to take on the role of **Global Chief Creative Officer** at **AKQA** in Lisbon. Known for his impressive collection of **60 Lions** from the Cannes Lions, Veiga has made a significant mark in the creative industry.

### **Career Highlights**  
Veiga first gained recognition as the **Best Copywriter of the Year** at the **Cannes Lions 2013**. He co-founded the **AKQA studio in São Paulo**, where he led creative projects for renowned brands and artists, including **Usher**, **Elton John**, and **Lady Gaga**.

### **Achievements at AKQA São Paulo**  
Under his leadership, the **AKQA São Paulo** office was awarded the title of **“Happiest Office in WPP”** in 2018 and was named **“Agency of the Year in Latin America”** at Cannes Lions in 2019 and again at the **One Show in 2020**. The office has also secured a **Grand Clio** for five different clients over five consecutive years.

### **Cannes Lions Accolades**  
Among his 60 Cannes Lions, more than **25 are Gold**, including **4 Grand Prix** for campaigns like **“Dove Real Beauty Sketches”**, **“Nike Air Max Graffiti Stores”**, and **“Nike Never Done Evolving feat Serena”**.

### **Recognition and Contributions**  
In 2019, he was named the **Best Creative Director in Brazil** by **PropMark**, a leading industry publication. He served as the **Latin America Chair** at the **Andy Awards** and was the jury president for the **Mobile category at Cannes Lions 2022**.

### **Beyond Advertising**  
Outside the advertising realm, Veiga has worked as a **screenwriter and actor** in three Portuguese comedy shows, lent his voice to animated characters, won two editions of the **Lisbon Improvisation Theater Contest**, created a limited series for the **Renault Clio**, and was the lead vocalist of **Moda Foca**, a 90s rock band he humorously describes as “without fans or talent.”

Após ser reconhecido como o melhor redactor do ano no Cannes Lions 2013, Hugo Veiga co-fundou o estúdio da AKQA em São Paulo, sendo que desde então liderou projectos criativos para marcas e artistas como Usher, Elton John e Lady Gaga.


Join the Festive Celebration: Algarve Community Choir Concert in Olhão This Sunday!

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Algarve Community Choir Concert

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Other Latest News

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Portugal's Airports Achieve Historic Milestone: Over 35 Million Passengers in 2024!

Health and Politics Clash: Controversy Erupts Over Cancer League President's Claims

Internal Strife: Critics of Mariana Mortágua Withdraw from Bloc Convention Over Leadership Issues

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Hugo Veiga: The Award-Winning Portuguese Creative Returns to Lisbon!