Embedded Files
America Bids Farewell to Longest Living US President, Jimmy Carter
Humble peanut farmer becomes 39th US president then spends decades pursuing humanitarian causes
By: Matthew Campbell
James Earl "Jimmy" Carter Jr. would grow up to lead a life of service and humility, with a constant never-give-up attitude, culminating in his ascension to the role of 39th President of the United States. Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Jimmy Carter lived with his family until adulthood in a peanut farming family. This is where he established work ethics by his teenage years due to the Great Depression affecting many Americans nationwide. By this young age, Jimmy Carter would be known as a hard worker and would carry dedicated principles based on Christian values for the rest of his life. Upon graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946, Carter became a commissioned naval officer and submariner. He moved to Plains in 1953 when his father died and took over the family farm. He then expanded and transformed the farm into a profitable enterprise. Thereafter, his life was impacted by resentment of the racial injustice he faced in the world, compounded by his childhood in a segregated South. Therefore, he pursued political activities guided by a learned approach to equity and equality.
Prior to his presidential run, Carter enjoyed two terms in the Georgia State Senate. He became governor of Georgia in 1971. Governor Carter experienced a meteoric rise in popularity; he became a nationally recognized figure for civil rights, and in his inaugural address, he claimed, "the time for racial discrimination is over." Thus, acknowledging some hard truths as admission made his presidential opportunity all the more valid. Carter was an unconventional presidential choice. He ran for president in 1976 from the bottom up in Georgia without a political platform but a message of moral and ethical governance. Carter's humble demeanor and ability to relate to what the American people needed and wanted: ethical governance in response to scandals like Watergate. This gave Carter the edge he needed to defeat incumbent President Gerald Ford to become President Carter.
Carter's biggest successes and failures came by ear at the domestic level and in his efforts at foreign relations after the fact, i.e., during his term. Carter was the president who directly intended energy reform to help America; he was the president who promoted environmental sustainability and human rights efforts; he was the president who brokered the Camp David Accords with Egypt and Israel, a treaty of the nation still existent in the Middle East. He was the president, however, who left his term with the U.S. held hostage to Iran after an energy crisis failed to stabilize inflation. The highlights of Carter's life occurred after he was president. In 1982 he founded The Carter Center, which works internationally on democratic and human rights initiatives and global public health. As a Center head, he focused on disease eradication, election research and arbitration, and conflict resolution between nations. His humanitarian efforts brought him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Carter continued to be involved with church and community; he taught Plains Sunday School for many years and contributed to Habitat for Humanity, helping others learn to build their homes. Carter was one of the oldest living presidents with a reputation for humanitarian effort, compassion, and an unmatched work ethic in bettering the planet. Jimmy worked side by side with his wife, Rosalynn Carter, in his presidential terms. Mrs. Carter is one of the greatest first ladies to be in office, often helping Jimmy Carter in many occasions with certain decisions. They were married for 77 years before her death in 2023. Carter died on December 29, 2024 at the age of 100.
Spirit Airlines Files for Bankruptcy
Experts speculate on ways future air travel will be impacted
By: Alison Palmieri
In 2024, Spirit Airlines shocked the travel world by filing for bankruptcy, marking a major moment for one of the country’s most well-known low-cost carriers. Spirit, which is known for cheaper travel options, has faced increasing financial pressure due to rising fuel costs, fierce competition from other budget airlines, and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though Spirit had been offering cheap flights for years, these challenges have made it difficult for the airline to maintain profitability.
However, the bankruptcy filing doesn’t mean Spirit is shutting down. The airline has announced that it will continue to operate flights and honor existing reservations. Spirit has already begun the process of restructuring its finances in an effort to re-establish itself as a major player in the airline industry. While the filing has raised questions about the airline’s future, the company remains committed to offering budget-friendly travel for those looking to fly without breaking the bank.
For many travelers, Spirit Airlines is a popular choice because of its low ticket prices, even though its service is often criticized for being bare-bones. The airline’s “no-frills” approach means that passengers typically pay extra for things like seat selection, baggage, and food.
While this model has worked for many years, Spirit’s financial troubles have brought its long-term sustainability into question.
The bankruptcy filing has sparked wider conversations about the state of the airline industry, particularly for low-cost carriers. As airlines like Spirit and others face rising operational costs, some worry that budget travel could become more expensive, reducing options for many customers.
While Spirit Airlines has plans to restructure and continue flying, the future of affordable air travel remains uncertain, and it’s unclear whether the airline will recover or if its struggles signal larger trends in the airline and transportation industries.
Rapid Spread of Wildfires Across the Northeast Leave Hundreds Homeless
Historic Drought is blamed for damage, destruction: Is Climate Change Destroying Our World?
By: Olivia Coish
In late November, the Northeast experienced months of drought, leading to an elevated risk for the spread of wildfires. Due to Northwest winds, minimum relative humidity, and dry condition, parts of upstate New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, were expected to experience an increase in fires. As a result of the threats, voluntary evacuation was enforced in the town of Warwick and Wah Ta Wah Park in Greenwood lake, New York. These evacuations helped firefighters fight the Jennings Creek wildfire, which ultimately protected at least 165 homes. In many towns, evacuations remained in place for extended periods, including Orange County which has expanded their State of Emergency. Those evacuated were encouraged to shelter in place at Greenwood Lake Middle School.
According to the NWS Office in Albany, “The combination of prolonged dry weather, west to northwest winds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts 20 to 25 mph, relative humidity values between 35 and 50% and dry fuels will contribute to an elevated risk of fire spread today for portions of eastern New York, including the eastern Catskills, Capital District, Mid-Hudson Valley, and the Taconics.”
Many areas, including New York state, have implemented burn bans through November 30th. These bans prohibit lighting outdoor fires for brush and debris disposal, uncontained campfires, and cooking with open fires. Forecasters advised the public to, “Use extra caution if handling any potential ignition sources, such as machinery or matches, and ensure to properly extinguish or dispose of cigarette butts.” Due to the lack of rain, counties have been advised to be mindful of their water use, especially when it comes to excessive watering of lawns.
In a recent update, the Jennings Creek wildfire, located in Orange County has burned over 5,300 acres of land. The New York City Fire Department announced the establishment of its first Brush Fire Task Force in response to the “historic” increase in brush blazes around the city. In the last two weeks of November, the department responded to 271 brush fires. Approximately 58% of the Northeast was, or currently is, experiencing moderate drought. According to the U.S Drought Monitor, this is the highest drought level for the region since September of 2002.
New Haven Implements Phone Ban in Schools to Address Student Distraction
Strong evidence leads to more CT towns adopting phone restriction policies to prioritize learning
By: Ava Proto
In an ambitious effort to address distractions and foster a more focused learning environment, New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) announced plans to implement a cell phone ban district-wide by September 2025. This policy will require all 19,000 NHPS students to store their phones in Yondr pouches—magnetic locking cases that prevent phone use during school hours. While some support this as an opportunity for better academic integrity and increased social emotional connection in schools, others warn that there may be unintended roadblocks and consequences.
Mayor Justin Elicker has proposed allocating $375,000 in city funds to purchase Yondr pouches for every NHPS student. Advocates of the plan including district administration believe that it will reduce distractions and cyber-bullying to help students stay engaged in their studies. “This policy is about putting education first,” said Superintendent Dr. Madeline Negrón.
According to Yondr’s website the process is a simple three step routine for students to follow each day. First, “Arrival: Upon entering the phone-free space, your phone will be placed inside a Yondr pouch.” Next, “Secure: Once inside the phone-free area, the pouch is locked. You will maintain possession of your phone at all times.” Finally, “Open: use your phone at any time, step outside the phone-free zone and tap your pouch on an unlocking base.” The mechanics of these pouches involve a small pin as the sole locking mechanism. However, many students in other districts have already figured out how to “jailbreak” the system. Some methods include opening the pouch and bending the pin on a table, throwing the pouch against a wall or purchasing a magnetic device online for around $15. Many state that with this damage of property and the cost of replacement pouches will cause increased financial consequences for the City of New Haven, which already struggles to provide its students with access to resources.
John Carlos Serana Musser, a senior at Wilbur Cross High School and student representative on the board of education, highlighted a critical issue: the lack of technology resources in some NHPS schools. “Many of my friends have to write and read essays on their phones because we don't have enough Chromebooks to provide 1:1 access,” he shared in a recent board meeting.
Critics of the proposed cell phone ban argue that the budget set for Yondr pouches could be better spent addressing critical resource gaps within the district. The money being spent on Yonder pouches could instead go towards restoring 1:1 Chromebook access. Without that investment the ban risks placing students who rely on their phones to keep up academically at even more of a disadvantage. Additionally, many schools face under funding and other critical areas from textbooks and classroom supplies to staffing for specialized programs. Teachers have expressed frustration that funds are often diverted to temporary solutions rather than addressing systemic inequities.
With the board of Adler set to vote on this funding proposal in the coming months, it is important to question whether the district should invest in locking away distractions or focus on unlocking opportunities for every student. At press time, additional towns including New Britain and Portland were enforcing similar restrictions on phone use. Studies show students distracted by phone are less likely to wholeheartedly embrace learning and do their best work.
Did UCONN Profit From the Sale of Indigenous Land?
Is this the perfect opportunity to provide a form of long overdue reparations to Native American students?
By: Tessa O'Brien
The question of whether the University of Connecticut profited from the sale of indigenous land and whether or not they now owe Native American students as a result is a significant issue with many details attached. This topic involves examining historical events, ethical conflicts, and legal obligations.
Many universities in the US—including UCONN—were established on lands that originally belonged to indigenous peoples. The Morrill Act of 1862 plays a very influential role in this process. This Morrill Act granted land to states to fund the establishment of colleges. This often involved the transfer of Native American lands to be controlled by non-Natives. These lands were either sold or used for the development and expansion of many different institutions including UCONN.
The possession of these lands involved treaties, unfair negotiations, or outright seizure, which caused a significant displacement and loss for Indigenous communities and their peoples. From an ethical point of view, there is an increasing recognition of the historical injustices that the Native American communities have faced during this time. Many of these institutions that were established on these lands are beginning to acknowledge their roles in these injustices and are now considering ways to make amends. The concept of restitution is becoming more prevalent in academic discussions. For example, UCONN is now providing support for Native American students through different programs, scholarships, and many other forms of assistance. This is a solution to try and compensate for the historical wrongs that were made by these universities, which will contribute to diversity in the community.
From a legal standpoint this issue is more complex. Even though there is a strong ethical argument for compensation and reparations, the legal frame for these actions are less clear. UCONN would need to navigate around these various legal complications including state and federal laws along with specifics on original lands and their grants. While facing legal conflicts it is important for UCONN to continue to take voluntary steps to support the Native American students and their communities to potentially save their case.
To sum it all up, UCONN had great benefits from the sale of Indigenous land. When addressing this injustice, it involves a combination of both ethical considerations and legal actions that have to be accounted for. While providing support to Native American students through scholarships and other programs is a meaningful way for UCONN to acknowledge and compensate for their wrongful actions, by doing so, they would also be promoting inclusivity and a brighter future for students and the university as a whole.
President Donald J. Trump Proposes Cabinet Appointments
Will past actions of his nominees interfere with their eligibility?
By: Russell Collins
President-elect Donald J. Trump is set to take office for another term at the Presidential Inauguration on January 20th 2025. As the new incoming President, Trump has an important role of choosing fifteen different cabinet appointments. These unelected positions are the heads of the fifteen different executive departments. The departments are as follows: the Secretary of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Education, Energy, Health and Human services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Labor, State, Transportation, Treasury, Veterans affairs, and lastly the Attorney General.
After the President chooses an individual for each cabinet position, the selections are then sent to the Senate where the individual is either confirmed or denied for that position. If the Senate denies the individual, the president has the opportunity to select another individual to go through the same confirmation process. However if the Senate confirms, the individual is now the head of their respective executive department. Cabinet positions can last as long as the president is in office, assuming the individual does not get fired by the president or resigns. Prospective nominees can also withdraw their nomination.
The following is the list of Trump’s cabinet nominations so far:
Secretary of Agriculture: Brooke Rollins
Secretary of Commerce: Howard Lutnick
Secretary of Defense: Pete Hegseth
Secretary of Education: Linda McMahon
Secretary of Energy: Chris Wright
Secretary of Health and Human Services: Robert F. Kennedy Jr
Secretary of Homeland Security: Kristi Noem
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Scott Turner
Secretary of the Interior: Doug Burgum
Secretary of Labor: Lori Chavez-DeRemer
Secretary of State: Marco Rubio
Secretary of Transportation: Sean Duffy
Secretary of Treasury: Scoot Bessent
Secretary of Veteran affairs: Doug Collins
Attorney General: Pam Bondi.
Trump's political party, the Republicans, will have a majority in the Senate. This means that Trump’s Cabinet nominees will likely have an easier confirmation process, regardless of controversy. Most notably, Pete Hegseth, who according to U.S News, was accused of sexual assault in 2017 after a speaking appearance at a Republican women's event in Monterey, California. Hegseth did not face charges after a police investigation; however, this may raise a serious concern for the Senate during the confirmation process. Hegseth’s attorney said, “Hegseth paid the women who accused him of sexual assault as part of a financial settlement with a confidentiality clause.”
Some other key roles and positions in the Trump Administration are, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, FBI director Kash Patel, CIA director Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratclifeee, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Border czar Tom Homan, Department of Government Efficiency Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, and Ambassador to the U.N Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York. Some of the nominees may be easily confirmed, while others may face additional scrutiny.
Connecticut Mourns the Loss of Former Governor, Jodi Rell
Celebrating the life of a respected governor who helped strengthen Connecticut
By: Sophia Vollono
On November 20, 2024, former CT governor, Jodi Rell passed away at the age of 78. Rell served as a Connecticut governor from 2004 until 2011, a total of seven years. Prior to this, Rell served as lieutenant governor for Connecticut for ten years. Rell took the place of governor in 2004 when the former governor, John Rowland, resigned after being sentenced to 10 months in prison for attempting to hide work payments. When asked to speak after her death, Rowland spoke highly of Rell saying, “she had the right temperament. She could work with people. She wasn’t overly ambitious. She was a good complement to the team.” Although “she wasn’t overly ambitious,” Jodi Rell made many positive contributions to our state while in office.
While in office, Rell helped to strengthen the economy by encouraging more job opportunities to be available and ensuring that our workforce was strong. She invested a great deal of money into early childhood learning programs to make quality education for all children more accessible. During a time when Connecticut was in a state of disarray, Jodi Rell, only being the second female governor in the state of Connecticut, rose to the job and worked to put things back in order.
Jodi Rell was born on June 16, 1946 in Norfolk, Virginia. She spent her childhood growing up there on a naval base. She first attended Old Dominion University in her hometown of Norfolk. Jodi continued her education at Western Connecticut State University and from there she continued building upon her education, eventually attending college for the last time at University of New Haven in 2004. She earned an honorary doctor of law degree from her studies. Although she wasn’t born here, Rell loved Connecticut. Her career and family were rooted in the state of Connecticut where she raised her children in Brookefield.
Not only was she a strong political leader, but family members and friends recalled a smart, empathetic, kind, and devoted woman when attending her funeral. Present Governor, Ned Lamuont stated, “the Jodi Rell that the people of Connecticut saw in public was the Jodi Rell she was in real life - calm, rational, caring, approachable, and devoted to her family and to her state.” Connecticut Senate Republican Caucus said that Jodi was, “a leader and role model for all our citizens.” Thomas Ritter, a former house speaker, even referred to Rell as “the nicest person in the world.” Not only will Jodi Rell be remembered for her political strength and smarts, but she will also be remembered for her kind and supportive character.
Heroic Firefighters Battled Historic California Wildfires That Wreaked Havoc
Torrid winds fueled conflagrations that caused unspeakable destruction of lives/buidlings/communities
By: Chloe Diaz
During the first week of January, a blaze of fire erupted in the Los Angeles neighborhood, the Pacific Palisades. Since then, the fires have rapidly spread throughout the state of California. Video clips have taken the news and social media platforms by storm, showing both the homes of famous celebrities and citizens alike being overtaken by these violent flames. Now, the wildfires have affected nearly 40,000 acres of California, with the fire in Palisades taking over 20,000 acres alone. Many people are without housing and losing their most precious possessions. The most precious things that have been lost, however, are the lives of at least 5 people who have been killed in Los Angeles due to this rampant wildfire. Countless others have also been reported to be harmed across southern California.
It is clear from past experiences with wildfires that they spread and gain force rapidly. In this case, the fire began in the evening on January 7th in the Santa Monica mountains. While it is still unknown what exactly caused the fire, the winds and dry air have only made the fire stronger, causing it to spread through the Santa Monica mountains into the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, where it destroyed over 1,500 homes. Evacuations have been in order, with tens of thousands of residents fleeing from California to escape from the destructive fires, while others have decided to stay. Videos from those who have chosen to stay have shown the horrifying scene of what is truly happening in California.
The damages are estimated to cost over $50 billion, making this wildfire the most destructive fire in the history of Los Angeles. Being home to 9.6 million people, the destruction in Los Angeles is affecting thousands of people, and it is not surprising that so many are hesitant to leave their homes, as a disaster like this one seems unreal. According to the governor of California, Gavin Newsom, the fire conditions and wind will continue, and pose a threat to the citizens of Los Angeles.
Firefighters continue to do all that they can to stop this fire, but it is going to be remembered as one of the most destructive fires the United States has seen. Natural disasters can take a place by storm, and it is important that citizens remember to be alert, careful, and to stay safe. Often, people have a difficult time realizing that disasters such as this one can happen to anybody, which is why it is important to feel empathy to those currently experiencing this event. We must give all who are affected by not only the fires in Los Angeles, but in the state of California as a whole, support throughout this process of grief and recovery to help remind them that they are not alone during this frightening time.
By the time the flames were extinguished in their entirety, huge areas of California were unrecognizable and resembled the aftermath of war. It was a heartbreak and a life-changing disaster for thousands.
Donate to help support the families of heroic firefighters and the towns they serve here.
To donate to victims of the devastating fires, click here.
Trump's New DOGE Initiative Rocks Politics as Usual as Americans Brace For Outcomes
Can it be described as Cryptocurrency or Government Agency?
By: Will Sagnella
On November 5th, 2024, Donald Trump was elected once again as the President of the United States. Part of Trump's campaign was a promise to cut down on government spending. He followed through, and only days after this election Trump introduced the DOGE which stands for the Department of Government Efficiency. Trump assigned two billionaires, Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to take hold of the initiative.
This type of presidential advisory commission has been done before. During Bill Clinton's presidency in the 1990’s, he introduced the Clinton Administration’s National Performance Review; an effort to cut government spending just like Trump.
Currently the government's national spending is sitting at around $6.7 trillion, two-thirds of which is mandatory spending. Ramaswamy claims that he will be able to find a third of that, about $2 trillion, in savings. Many have opinions on this statement, including Elaine Kamarck, who managed Clinton’s attempt to cut government spending. She believed Ramaswamy’s claim that he could save the government $2 trillion dollars was insane. “This is the first warning sign that this is going to be a failed operation,” she said, according to CBS News.
Musk and Ramaswamy are the cause of many concerns themselves. Musk however, has been the cause of the majority of concerns. Many worry about Musk’s background. By trade Musk is a businessman; his goal is to make money, not necessarily save it. In addition to this, his company is in aerospace, dealing with getting people to the moon in a fast and efficient way. In addition to this, his companies themselves contribute to the federal spending. According to USA Today, the federal government contributed at least $3.8 million to SpaceX in 2024, Musk’s space exploration company. Many also contemplate if Musk will be able to juggle this role with the DOGE in addition to the other companies he is a CEO at. Columbia Business School professor Michael Morris worries about Musk's commitment to DOGE, saying, “"He's already the CEO of companies that are very demanding of his time” (CBS News).
Musk and Ramaswamy definitely have their work cut out for them. Cutting spending is not as easy as it may sound. Cutting spending on one organization can have a domino effect on other parts of the nation. Possibly causing much more damage than was intended. For example, Social Security spending results in one-fifth of the yearly spending total. Cutting Social Security would result in a lot of savings. But this would result in reduced benefits for the American citizens that are benefiting from Social Security. These reduced benefits would likely cause many people to be upset, since Social Security is a very valuable thing in our nation.
Even though there are lots of doubts and hardships that sit between Musk and Ramaswamy, and cutting government spending, the task is not impossible. If Musk and Ramaswamy were to significantly cut spending it would have a positive effect on the government's budget, increasing it by a hefty amount. Trump believes Musk and Ramaswamy will have their work with the DOGE completed by July 4th, 2026. There is no questioning Trump's confidence towards the DOGE; he has faith in it. The only question now is if Musk and Ramaswamy can cut the annual spending amount by $2 trillion like Ramaswamy believes they can.
Phoenix Begins a New Series: Getting to Know America's First Ladies
Celebrating the contributions and legacies of the wives of American presidents
By: Kayla Cherian
The First Ladies of America genuinely do not get enough credit for everything they do for our country. Michelle Obama, Melania Trump, Jill Biden. All three of these ladies are incredibly influential in our country.
During Obama's presidency, Michelle advocated for poverty awareness, education, and a healthy lifestyle in our country. Michelle started a campaign called Let's Move to promote healthier lifestyles in kids' lives and reduce obesity rates.
During Trump's presidency, Melania started a campaign entitled Be Best. This campaign was designed to prevent cyberbullying and focus on kids' well-being.
Jill Biden carried a significant cause in her heart, breast cancer after one of her close friends was diagnosed with it. Jill is now the president of the Biden Breast Health Initiative and is passionate about promoting awareness. However, what are they doing now?
After Obama's presidency, it is clear that Obama's influence on young people's lives did not stop. Michelle Obama has written a few best-selling New York Times books, including Becoming and The Light We Carry. Michelle also continued to promote causes that were important to her and volunteered and donated to multiple charities. A few of the causes that she tended to help out include living a healthy lifestyle and poverty awareness.
Since Trump's presidency, Melania has still stayed very active in our country by supporting her cause to stop cyberbullying and focus on her well-being as a kid. Melania Trump once again became first lady in January and pledges to continue with her ongoing initiatives.
War Between Ukraine and Russia Continues but is There an End in Sight?
Using new drone technology, Ukraine strikes Russia, escalating the already devastating war
By: Michaela Dest
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian forces have launched a major strike on Russian positions. This move marks a dramatic escalation in the war that has gripped Eastern Europe for months, drawing international attention and concern.
According to Ukrainian military sources, the strike targeted several key Russian military installations, including command centers and supply depots. The operation was reportedly carried out using a combination of drone strikes and artillery bombardments. Ukrainian officials have claimed that the strike was a preemptive measure aimed at disrupting Russian plans for a large-scale offensive.
The impact of the strike has been substantial. Preliminary reports suggest significant damage to Russian military infrastructure, with several high-ranking Russian officers reportedly killed or injured. The Russian Ministry of Defense has confirmed the attack but has downplayed its effectiveness, stating that their forces remain fully operational and capable of continuing their mission.
This latest development comes amid a backdrop of increasing tensions and ongoing skirmishes along the front lines. Both sides have accused each other of escalating the conflict and violating ceasefire agreements. The international community has expressed deep concern over the potential for further escalation and the humanitarian impact on civilians caught in the crossfire.
The United Nations has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the redemption of peace talks. However, Ukraine and Russia have shown little willingness to compromise, blaming the other for the breakdown in negotiations. The European Union and the United States have reiterated their support for Ukraine, condemning the Russian aggression and calling for increased sanctions against Moscow.
The strike has also had significant political ramifications within Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky has received widespread support from the Ukrainian public and political establishment for his strong stance against Russian aggression. However, there are also concerns about the potential for further escalation and the long-term sustainability of the conflict.
The international community remains on high alert as the situation continues to evolve. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with several high-level meetings scheduled in the coming days to address the crisis. The hope is that a peaceful resolution can be found to prevent further bloodshed and instability in the region.
Ukraine’s recent strike on Russia marks a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict. The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining the war's future trajectory and the prospects for peace in Eastern Europe. The world watches anxiously, hoping for a resolution that ends the suffering and paves the way for lasting stability in the region.
Stay tuned for follow-up coverage in our next issue as the Trump administration shifts gears with their stand on the war and allegiance to and support of Ukraine.
Saint Barbara Orthodox Church Hosts Fantasy of Trees
This church in Orange, Connecticut, shows incredible Christmas spirit!
By: Sophiea Runlett
The Fantasy of Trees is an annual event that happens at Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church. This year, it was held on November 17th and 18th. The second you walk in the door, you are greeted by the Christmas spirit all around.
Hundreds of themed trees fill the church in every corner. These trees are not only great decorations for the event, but they can be taken home! All of the trees are up for raffle. The raffle not only includes Christmas trees, but many other things such as gift card bundles, unique decorations, themed packages, and puzzle stacks.
All of the items part of the raffle were generously donated by various members of the church community. Two of the trees were made by the youth of the community. The children in GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth Association) made a Saint Nicholas tree. The children in JOY (Junior Orthodox Youth) made an “all around the world” traveling tree. These were very popular trees and broadcast the youth’s involvement and care with the church.
A big hit of the weekend is the food. The church claims it has the best great food in Connecticut, and with the amount of people that attend and eat, the public seems to agree. They have main courses, pastries, and hence the season, hot cocoa and coffee.
Not only does the event consist of church activities, but they include vendors. This shines light on small businesses and also adds more for people to look and shop at.
In the back of the church store hallway, the biggest tree stands. It consists of wooden angel ornaments hung all over the tree that have names on them. This is where anyone can take an ornament and write a name for someone. After they do this, they can say a prayer about that person and hang it on the tree. Doing this is a pleasant way to show appreciation for loved ones and wish them well. The ornaments are free to put up, but there is an option for donation.
All donations from the angel tree go to members of the church community in need. When a member of the church is in need, they can discreetly come up to the priest and tell them of their financial struggles. The fund is held for them and what they need will be given to them. The church is a selfless community and works tirelessly to ensure that their giving community is supported as the community is a loving, family-like place.
(Back to Front): The Goyans of Saint Barbara: Niko Ziko, Michael Riggione, Zoe Haskos, Alida Panagiotakis, Sophiea Runlett, Costa Baklas, Eva Baklas, Alexa Haskos, Demitri Kanakis, George Vlandis, Petrina Kanakis, Gabriella Panagiotakis, Sofia Kanakis, Sophia Maniatis, Lefty Maniatis, Andreas Kambas pose infront of their decorated tree.
Notre Dame Cathedral Reopens in Dec 2024
Experts from across the globe worked to save the historic structure following devastating fire
Five years after a devastating fire in 2019 that destroyed the cathedral's spire and roof, the Notre Dame in Paris has been fully restored. The reopening ceremony was held on December 7th, with the French president Emmanuel Macron and other dignitaries in attendance. This ceremony was a celebration of all of the hard work and effort that went into restoring a historic and beautiful piece of architecture.
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