Strengthening Families Program Grows in Avoyelles Parish

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Kendricks and Calisha Johnson, leaders of Living Hope Outreach Ministry (LHO), continue their dedicated work to strengthen families and improve the Bunkie community. Their efforts are expanding, with plans underway to extend their reach throughout Avoyelles Parish.

In 2025, Living Hope Outreach was awarded the Strengthening Families Program grant through The Rapides Foundation in Alexandria. This funding enabled LHO to implement an 11-week, evidence-based program designed to serve entire families by building practical life skills. These skills include healthy communication, coping strategies, family bonding, and positive parenting.

Throughout the year, four program cohorts were held—two in the spring and two in the fall—serving a total of 30 families. Program evaluations revealed strong positive outcomes for both parents and youth participants.

Parents reported significant improvements in family communication, organization, and bonding, along with notable decreases in family conflict. Youth participants demonstrated measurable gains in emotional regulation, concentration, and positive behavior. Additionally, program data indicated no reported substance use among youth who took part in the sessions.

Families who successfully completed all program requirements were given a choice between two rewards:

– An all-expense-paid family vacation to Great Wolf Lodge in Webster, Texas
– A cash stipend to help support family needs

Building on this success, Living Hope Outreach has recently been awarded continued funding for the Strengthening Families Program for the 2026–2029 grant cycle. With this renewed funding, the program will expand beyond Bunkie and be implemented throughout Avoyelles Parish starting in spring 2026. This expansion will allow even more families to benefit from this proven model of family support and prevention.
https://www.avoyellestoday.com/strengthening-families-program-grows-in-avoyelles-parish/

Making the Case for a Short-Haul Catering Overhaul

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How AI-First Thinking Is Reshaping Airline Innovation

Travel brands are racing to adopt AI, but real progress comes from rebuilding foundations rather than simply layering technology onto legacy systems. Airlines that take an AI-first approach can operate proactively, personalize at scale, and deliver smoother experiences for travelers.

Sponsored: Sabre Exec on the Agentic Shift: ‘This Is Augmentation, Not Displacement’

Sabre’s agentic AI is encouraging travel agencies to rethink their roles in the evolving landscape. While the shift has sparked both interest and unease, the company emphasizes that this development is about augmentation, not displacement. Here’s how Sabre is making the case for this agentic transformation.

From Vibe Coding to Exclusive LLM Deals: AI Takeaways From Agoda’s CEO

The impact of AI extends across the travel industry workforce. Employees, whether at Agoda or other companies, need to adapt to AI-driven workflows to stay relevant. Those who don’t evolve risk becoming obsolete and searching for new jobs.

https://skift.com/2026/01/24/making-the-case-for-a-short-haul-catering-overhaul/

How to prepare for the ‘Great Wealth Transfer’

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The investing information provided on this page is for educational purposes only. NerdWallet, Inc. does not offer advisory or brokerage services, nor does it recommend or advise investors to buy or sell particular stocks, securities, or other investments.

We are in the midst of the Great Wealth Transfer, experts say—a predicted titanic pass-down of assets from older generations to Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. According to financial research firm Cerulli Associates, $124 trillion will change generational hands through 2048.

That said, not everyone is going to receive a staggering amount of money—or any inheritance at all, frankly. Much of this wealth is concentrated within a small segment of the population. But if you’re inheriting wealth, you’ll have choices to make. Planning ahead can help you avoid costly mistakes.

“This is something that’s really powerful, that could really propel your financial security,” says Fahmin Fardous, a certified financial planner with Zenith Wealth Partners in Morristown, New Jersey. “Let’s look at where you are, and let’s look at what your goals are in life.”

### Prepare Before the Inheritance

Receiving large sums of money and losing a loved one are both events that can throw you for a loop—emotionally and practically.

“Grief can lead to rushed decisions,” says Scott Bishop, a CFP and co-founder of Presidio Wealth Partners in Houston. Establishing goals, understanding inheritance terms, and researching tax implications can put you in a better place to make smart choices, he adds.

In other words, laying the groundwork now prepares you for the hard work later.

“Emotionally, I often see people swing to extremes—either refusing to spend any money because it feels like ‘blood money,’ or spending too quickly because they don’t feel deserving of it,” says Mitchell Kraus, a CFP with Capital Intelligence Associates in Santa Monica, California.

No matter what emotion you feel at the time, it’s probably normal—whether it’s happiness, sadness, or general overwhelm. “I’ve seen stress, I’ve seen excitement,” Fardous says. Many clients have never had this kind of money before and don’t know what to do with it.

### Avoid Common Inheritance Mistakes

All those feelings can make it hard to act thoughtfully on your newfound wealth, particularly if it’s a life-changing amount.

One thing you shouldn’t do, Fardous says, is start mentally spending the cash.

“Whenever I see someone who’s received a windfall, they think of this wish list they’ve had,” she explains. “And this money is getting spent in their head before it’s even hitting their bank account.” That can derail long-term security before the inheritance has even fully settled.

“Don’t bank on an inheritance until you have it,” Kraus advises.

Other people seek professional advice (good!) but end up with financial pros who try to sell them lots of high-commission products (not ideal!). If you consult with a professional, consider looking for a fiduciary—someone legally bound to do what’s best for the client, Fardous says.

Be sure you understand the difference between a fee-based financial planner, who receives commissions for recommending products, and a fee-only planner, who is paid only by clients.

People sometimes respond to pressure from friends and family by taking hasty action before they’ve had time to really think about it. Kraus recommends telling people you’re taking a “90-day decision-free zone”—a period where you don’t make any irreversible financial moves.

“It gives you a chance to reset, to think about what’s going on and how it’s happening, and that takes a lot of the pressure off,” Kraus says.

### Have the Hard Conversations Early

It’s helpful to know what’s coming your way so you can prepare for taxation and distribution.

If you’re inheriting an IRA, there are rules about when and how you must take distributions from the account. There may be taxes due on what you’re receiving.

If you have the kind of relationship with your loved one where you could discuss what you might be inheriting, do it, Kraus suggests.

“I can’t tell you how many families I see where the parents are going to leave a lot of money for their kids, but their kids are so worried about the parents not being able to get by, they’re saving money in case their parents need help,” he explains. “So having those conversations ahead of time can help.”

Consider asking what you might be inheriting—money, property, investments—and whether there are any restrictions on the assets.

### Make a Plan for Inherited Wealth

After taking some time to absorb the situation and your emotions, experts say there are a few priorities to consider.

Consulting a professional about your tax liabilities should be one of your first steps, Bishop says.

After that, think about emergency savings and debt.

“We don’t want to allocate anything toward anything else without you having an emergency fund of three to six months in high-yield savings, then making sure you don’t have any high-interest debt,” Fardous advises.

Then consider your goals. Do you want to put money toward your children’s college education, buy a house, bump up your retirement nest egg?

“The first thing you don’t want to do is go out and buy three Ferraris,” Bishop says.

Think about what’s important to you and what this money means for you.

Where do you want to go? Does this inheritance mean you can retire early? Would you want to retire early?

“Think of it as an opportunity to reset your life,” Bishop says. “Big checks invite big mistakes. It’s important to slow down, have a plan, and then execute.”

—

**Related Articles:**

– [4 Ways to Relaunch Your Finances in 2026](#)

– [6 Clever Ways I’ve Saved Money (That Weren’t as Scary as I Thought)](#)

– [Will U.S. Intervention in Venezuela Change Prices at the Pump?](#)

—

*Kate Ashford, WMS™ writes for NerdWallet.*
Email: kashford@nerdwallet.com
Twitter: [@kateashford](https://twitter.com/kateashford)
https://www.lowellsun.com/2026/01/24/great-wealth-transfer/

Peter Welch: The perils and promise of ‘America First’

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This commentary is by Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., who represents Vermont in the U.S. Senate.

As far back as the capture of Fort Ticonderoga in 1775, our small state has wielded outsized influence in the nation and the world. Former Vermont senator Warren Austin was the country’s first ambassador to the United Nations. My predecessor, Sen. Patrick Leahy, worked tirelessly to build relations with people and governments in other countries. In Washington and abroad, Leahy found ways to project a positive face of America.

His efforts not only helped improve the lives of countless people enduring poverty, injustice, conflict, and disease, but also enabled the U.S. to find ways to work together with governments that had previously been aligned with our adversaries. Vietnam is one example: Leahy worked to build trust and address some of the worst legacies of the Vietnam War, like cleaning up contamination from Agent Orange and helping tens of thousands of people injured by landmines and bombs.

Those and other war legacy programs continue today; they formed the foundation for U.S.-Vietnam reconciliation and our comprehensive strategic partnership. There are many other instances where our foreign aid has been a catalyst for closer relations and partnerships with governments around the world: efforts to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, Ebola, and other infectious diseases; educational and cultural exchanges; the Peace Corps; programs to combat hunger and protect biodiversity and endangered species; and work to counter corruption, repression, and impunity.

These efforts required proactive, sustained engagement, cultivating relationships over many years with foreign officials and average citizens in those countries, on a bipartisan basis. This was Leahy’s vision of “America First.” He and his Senate colleagues understood that what happens beyond our borders directly affects us. To deal with climate change, terrorism, pandemics, and other threats, the U.S. needs allies and partners who share our goals.

President Trump’s new “America First” National Security Strategy is the opposite of what bipartisan leaders have spent decades working hard to achieve. In a mere 12 months, much of that work has been undone.

President Trump and Elon Musk dismantled our foreign aid programs practically overnight. Billions of dollars for those programs—which passed with bipartisan support—have been rescinded. This has life-and-death consequences for hundreds of millions of people who depend on U.S. aid.

Thousands of career Foreign Service officers and local employees at the State Department and our embassies have lost their jobs. They were our eyes and ears, providing objective analysis of evolving threats around the world and building relations with counterparts in foreign countries.

President Trump’s misguided policies extend far beyond U.S. aid. His national security strategy lampoons building alliances in defense of democracy and freedom, while lauding business deals with dictators like Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Saudi royal family.

He is trying to dominate weaker neighbors. His economic agenda hinges on reckless tariffs, which immediately led to a trade war. These tariffs not only amount to tax hikes for Americans and lost revenue for our farmers and businesses; they have also weakened our alliances and partnerships, including with our closest neighbors Canada and Mexico.

Today, these and many other countries no longer see the United States as a reliable partner and are seeking stronger trade and security ties with our adversaries, China and Russia.

Last November, 194 countries attended COP30, the United Nations climate conference in Brazil. The U.S., the world’s second-largest greenhouse gas emitter, was absent, along with two failed states, Afghanistan and Burma.

To President Trump, “America First” means mining for as much carbon-polluting coal, oil, and natural gas as possible, including on public lands. Meanwhile, China, the world’s largest carbon emitter, sent nearly 800 delegates to COP30, and it is the largest producer of renewable energy technology, including over 80% of the world’s solar manufacturing.

President Trump is turning over the keys to America’s future security to the fossil fuel companies and our global competitors.

And recently, with the unauthorized use of military force to capture Venezuela’s dictator Nicolas Maduro, the President has entangled the United States in a costly, open-ended nation-building venture in Venezuela that harks back to the days of 19th-century gunboat diplomacy.

A year ago, speaking of Greenland, he said, “One way or the other, we’re going to get it.” Last week, he warned, “We are going to do something on Greenland whether they like it or not. If we don’t do it the easy way, we’ll do it the hard way.”

The President’s foreign policy strategy is rooted in greed and bullying. It breeds resentment and anger, and over time, that will become a dangerous liability. We are already seeing the seeds of that, as one foreign leader after another looks for alternative markets and partners.

It may make an easy campaign slogan, but it is the American people who will struggle to pay the price for his ill-conceived, isolationist policies.

President Trump’s foreign policy might be more accurately summed up as “Trump First.” It is certainly not putting Americans first. Under this administration, our values, our credibility, and our reputation are under assault.

As Vermonters, we face a choice: pull the covers over our heads or renew a commitment to global leadership and engagement consistent with our ideals.

The United States must continue to set an example as a generous nation. We must continue to stand for democracy and freedom. Austin did this at the United Nations, and Leahy did this so effectively throughout his Senate career. They showed that diplomacy and cooperation are almost always better than conflict.

I am working to carry on their vision in the Senate. When we make that effort, we allow for the possibility of better outcomes for ourselves, for our country, and for people everywhere.
https://vtdigger.org/2026/01/23/peter-welch-the-perils-and-promise-of-america-first/

Thief’s Roulette

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You arrive in a strange place, surrounded by unfamiliar faces. You and 14 others have been taken and forced to compete for your lives in a series of challenges, hosted by a mysterious woman known only as Lady Luck.

Lady Luck proclaims that these 15 strangers are Thieves, and for that reason, she has brought them here to fight for their survival. To make it out alive, you must complete all of Lady Luck’s Challenges.

Thief’s Roulette is a first-person puzzle game with a mysterious story waiting to be unraveled. At the core of the game lies a series of challenging tasks conducted by Lady Luck herself.

Prepare to face a wide variety of puzzles and obstacles as you navigate through this gripping journey and strive to uncover the truth.
https://www.gamespot.com/games/thiefs-roulette/

Inside ‘MELANIA’: The unprecedented access behind Melania Trump’s first film

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EXCLUSIVE: First Lady Melania Trump Takes On Every Element of New Film “MELANIA”

From the music and cinematography to the lighting, marketing, and beyond, First Lady Melania Trump has meticulously planned every aspect of her upcoming film, “MELANIA.” Speaking to Fox News Digital, her agent and exclusive senior advisor, Marc Beckman, described her involvement in bringing her vision to life as “unparalleled.”

Set to hit theaters globally on January 30, “MELANIA” is a 104-minute film debuting across North America, South America, Asia, Europe, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and more.

### Washington Premiere at the Trump-Kennedy Center

The night before the global release, on January 29, premiere events will take place nationwide. Amazon is bringing the film to theaters, hosting premieres in cities including New York, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Chicago, Miami, San Diego, Nashville, Orlando, Orange County, San Francisco/Palo Alto, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Denver, Detroit, Kansas City, Boston, Austin, Houston, Las Vegas, Dallas, and Los Angeles.

Fox News Digital has learned that President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will attend the prominent Washington premiere event at the newly renamed Trump-Kennedy Center.

### First Lady’s Involvement: A Hands-On Approach

Marc Beckman, who serves as Melania Trump’s agent and exclusive senior advisor, told Fox News Digital that the First Lady has been deeply involved from the beginning.

“The First Lady’s involvement and her participation in this film is unparalleled,” Beckman said. “She is fully committed—from the ideation of the concept itself to the creative direction across all touchpoints.”

Known as a highly visual person with an exceptional sense of style and design, Melania has long had the desire to enter the film industry.

Beckman explained, “From the very start, the First Lady aimed to create a rich, cinematic experience unlike anything created before. This is not a documentary; this is a film. It offers her fans, Americans, and people around the world an unprecedented look into the life of a very private First Lady.”

### What the Film Covers

The film offers audiences insight into Melania Trump’s business endeavors, philanthropic work, and family life as she prepares to serve another term as First Lady of the United States.

Viewers will see intimate moments with her husband, interactions with the U.S. Secret Service, geopolitical events, meetings with world leaders, and a notable emphasis on fashion—a self-described “fashion explosion.”

Beckman emphasized, “Vogue can’t keep up with the First Lady’s fashion. She is undeniably the most fashionable First Lady in history.” The film grants access to unprecedented meetings and moments between a First Lady and President preparing to take office again.

### Behind the Deal: Amazon Wins Bidding War

Beckman led the initial negotiations with major companies such as Amazon, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), Paramount, Netflix, and Disney.

“Disney, Netflix, and Paramount all sought exclusive rights for the film,” Beckman said. “Amazon and MGM submitted the highest bid, ultimately securing the license for $40 million—the largest documentary deal in history.”

He added, “The competitive bidding process was intense, but Amazon stood out not only for their financial offer but also because they had the ideal team to help create the high-quality theatrical film the First Lady envisioned.”

Following the film’s theatrical release, Amazon will also produce a docuseries to allow the First Lady to delve deeper into the stories and themes introduced in the film.

### Creative Team and Production Highlights

The film is directed by Brett Ratner, known for directing the “Rush Hour” series. According to Beckman, Ratner has been impressed by Melania Trump’s natural talent and creativity.

“Brett said it’s as if Mrs. Trump has been working in Hollywood her whole life. She helped set the tone—not only on concept but also on lighting and filming,” Beckman said.

In post-production, Melania was actively involved in editing, color correction, and hand-selecting the soundtrack. She also contributed heavily to marketing, collaborating with Ratner and Amazon to produce the film trailer, commercials, and ad campaigns.

The film’s photography is by renowned fashion photographer Ellen von Unwerth, famous for her work with Chanel, Dior, Vanity Fair, and Vogue. The First Lady and von Unwerth share a strong bond, partly rooted in their mutual passion for foster care advocacy, which strengthens their professional collaboration.

### Global Release and Marketing Campaign

“MELANIA” will launch simultaneously in the United States and 30 other countries, including Italy, Japan, Korea, Spain, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Israel, Mexico, Hungary, Slovenia, and more.

“Each country will have its own ad campaign in the local language,” Beckman said. One notable campaign in Florence, Italy, features movie images projected on the iconic Duomo cathedral.

### Premiere Events and Exclusive Details

For the January 29 premieres, Melania Trump personally planned every detail—from guest gifts and seating arrangements to menus and collectible packaging designs like popcorn tubs.

Beckman summarized, “It’s all her vision and creativity.”

The exclusive trailer released in December 2025 opens with the First Lady walking into the U.S. Capitol rotunda before her husband’s second inauguration, dressed in her iconic inauguration outfit, saying, “Here we go again.”

The trailer shows powerful images from the inauguration, moments with Barron Trump and Melania’s father, to iconic symbols like Air Force One and the presidential seal, accompanied by the famous MGM lion roar.

### More From Melania: Bestselling Memoir and Collector’s Edition

The film follows the success of Melania Trump’s memoir, titled *Melania*, released one year prior. The book offers an intimate portrait featuring personal stories and family photos not previously shared. Since release, it has remained at the top of The New York Times bestseller list.

### Conclusion

With “MELANIA,” First Lady Melania Trump brings a unique, artistic, and intimate cinematic experience to theaters worldwide, combining personal storytelling, style, and unprecedented access. Fans and audiences globally will soon be able to see this exclusive look at the life of one of America’s most private and stylish First Ladies.

—

*Stay tuned for more updates and coverage as “MELANIA” premieres in theaters near you.*
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/inside-melania-unprecedented-access-behind-melania-trumps-first-film

ACE unit at Good Samaritan Medical Center helps older adults heal faster, avoid hospital complications

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**Good Samaritan Medical Center Launches Innovative ACE Unit to Enhance Care for Older Adults**

LAFAYTE, Colo. — A new pilot program at Good Samaritan Medical Center in Lafayette is helping older adults stay active, engaged, and socially connected during their hospital stays. Early results have staff and patients feeling optimistic about the program’s impact.

Known as the “ACE Unit,” short for Acute Care for the Elderly, this initiative is the first of its kind at any Intermountain Health hospital. Launched in April 2025, the unit is designed to deliver specialized care tailored to the growing population of older patients. The program focuses on mobility, nutrition, and mental stimulation throughout the recovery process.

“There was a need for specialization of our unit for geriatrics,” said Clinical Nurse Manager Mary Cisneros. “We see that there’s this growing population of elderly patients near us and in our hospital, and we needed to identify that population and really meet the needs of that specific demographic. The ultimate goal is to give best-in-class care to these patients.”

The ACE Unit’s care team conducts daily interdisciplinary rounds to address medical concerns quickly while keeping patients and their families informed. “It gives a chance for the patient and families to ask questions or learn what the plan of care is from each team member,” Cisneros explained.

**Promising Early Results**

In less than a year, the unit has already demonstrated measurable improvements. Cisneros highlighted several key outcomes: “We have seen improvement in reduced length of stay for our patients, significant reduction in readmission rates, increased mobility rates—so patients are getting up and moving around—which helps reduce functional decline during their hospital stay. We’ve also seen a decrease in pressure injuries and a reduction in fall injuries.”

For patients like Daniel Cross, the program has made an impactful difference in just days. “I had a stroke. I woke up 10 days ago and I couldn’t walk,” he shared. “Yesterday, I walked in the corridor, and today, I walked even longer. I’ll do that every day, twice, six, five times a day, rather than sit here.”

**Volunteers Enhance Patient Experience**

Volunteers play a crucial role in the ACE Unit’s success beyond medical care. Kathy Schulz, who is in her 70s, visits patients daily to offer companionship and mental stimulation through activities such as conversation and puzzles.

“One of the things that they wanted to promote, in addition to walking, was stimulation of the brain,” Schulz said. “I have a knack for sensing when someone needs a little bit of TLC. I make a connection with them.”

Schulz believes her age helps her relate to patients on a personal level. “I understand some of the things that they’ve gone through, the aches and pains, and experiences that a younger individual might not know,” she noted.

Patients have noticed the difference. One heartfelt note Schulz received from a patient read:
*“Kindness is a novelty in this world, but it is certainly a shining star at Good Samaritan. Thank you to all the staff.”*

**Looking Ahead**

Cisneros emphasized that programs like ACE are crucial in addressing the real challenges older adults face in hospitals, including risks of infection, functional decline, and delirium. “We need to be proactive in meeting their needs,” she said, “and really start looking at our care delivery so that we’re implementing units like this more widespread.”

Following the successful pilot, Intermountain Health hopes to eventually expand the ACE Unit program to every hospital in its system, enhancing specialized care for elderly patients across the region.
https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/ace-unit-at-good-samaritan-medical-center-helps-older-adults-heal-faster-avoid-hospital-complications

The Five Minute Read

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Bipartisan Health Care Group

On Jan. 14, Gov. Maura Healey announced the formation of a bipartisan Health Care Access & Affordability Working Group, convened to address rising health care costs and access challenges across Massachusetts. Lowell Community Health Center Board Chair Caroline Duong and LCHC CEO Susan West Levine joined other community health center leaders at the event, helping to represent health centers statewide and to underscore the essential role health centers play in providing primary care across the commonwealth.

Community health center priorities will be represented within the working group by Michael Curry, president and CEO of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, where Levine serves on the board of directors.

YouthQuake Open House – Lowell

Vinfen will cut the ribbon on its youth access center in Lowell called YouthQuake on Friday, Jan. 23, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will take place at 40 Church St., Third Floor. Acting Commissioner for the Department of Mental Health, Beth Lucas, and Vinfen CEO Jean Yang will be speaking at the event.

Vinfen’s Young Adult Access Centers, located in Lawrence and Everett (named YouForward) and in Lowell (named YouthQuake), help young people embark on a positive life path into adulthood. The centers work toward goals of personal stability, secure housing, competitive employment, and positive family and social relationships.

These access centers offer low-barrier services and support to young adults ages 16 to 26, who can simply stop by any access center to receive help with housing, education, attend events, and access mental health support without the need for a referral.

For more information, call 877-284-6336, email info@vinfen.org, or visit vinfen.org.

Construction Notice – Lowell

Removal of the soil stockpile in the parking lot along Dutton Street will take place Monday, Jan. 26 through Friday, Feb. 13. Work hours are Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The location is 256.2 Market St.

For more information, call 978-674-1429 or email Rreiling@lowellma.gov.

Centralville Sewer Separation Project – Lowell

The Centralville Sewer Separation Project team will be attending the upcoming Centralville Neighborhood Action Group meeting on Monday, Feb. 2, at 6:30 p.m., held at the Dom Polski Club, 10 Coburn St.

Representatives from the city of Lowell and project contractors CDM Smith and AD&S will share visuals and respond to questions about the Phase 1 construction project, covering:

  • Planned work areas and construction phasing
  • The anticipated construction schedule
  • What residents can expect during construction
  • How updates will be communicated throughout the project

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed throughout the project by visiting the project website at lowellwater.com and signing up for updates. Sign up for project email updates at tinyurl.com/y34ysx8m.

Municipal Policing Exam

The deadline to register for the 2026 municipal police officer and MBTA transit officer examinations is Monday, Feb. 2.

The written exam will take place the week of Wednesday, March 11 to Saturday, March 14, at various locations across the commonwealth. The written test fee is $75.

Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association (CMAA) Survey – Lowell

The Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association invites clients and residents to complete a client satisfaction survey in either English or Khmer.

The purpose of the survey is to evaluate CMAA and its services. All answers are anonymous and confidential. Data from this survey will be used to improve CMAA’s services. Participation in the survey is voluntary, and participants may quit the survey at any time.

https://www.lowellsun.com/2026/01/22/the-five-minute-read-1428/

Emerson College unveils Griff’s $200,000 game room

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Griff the Lion joined around two dozen cheering students, members of the Student Government Association (SGA), and college administrators to cut the purple ribbon on the brand new Griff’s Game Room on Tuesday, Jan. 13.

Located on the second floor of the Little Building, the game room replaces two large classrooms. The space now features a pool table, air hockey, foosball tables, a Nintendo Switch, and a wide variety of board games. Pink walls and large marquee posters of movies that Emerson College alumni worked on now adorn the previously bare, off-white walls. A neon sign of the Griff’s Game Room logo can easily be seen from Boylston Street.

Georgia Winn, the executive president of SGA, kicked off the ribbon-cutting ceremony that included Griff and Emerson President Jay Bernhardt. She noted that creating third spaces for students to foster organic community connections—rather than designated study or workspace—has been a key point of student feedback.

“[Third spaces] are an entry point for belonging,” Winn said during the ceremony. “They are places where conversations can happen organically, and friendships can form accidentally.”

Bernhardt described Griff’s Game Room as a “tangible piece” of the Extraordinary Emerson 2030 strategic plan and the college’s commitment to building community through “new spaces and new opportunities.” He also hinted at future announcements about additional spaces that will “bring Emersonians together.”

While the details of these future spaces are not yet known, Christie Anglade, Emerson’s vice president for student affairs, shared in a written statement to The Beacon that there is an intentional process underway to identify more third spaces on campus.

“That does not mean a large number of brand new buildouts, but it does mean being intentional about how existing areas can better support connection, relaxation, and community for all members of our campus,” Anglade said.

Priority C of Emerson’s strategic plan focuses on building a vibrant and inclusive campus experience through engagement, communication, and collaboration. Anglade emphasized that this priority includes evaluating physical spaces to improve how they foster community connection.

“Griff’s is proof of the promise to build a stronger, more joyful community,” Anglade wrote. “We know how important third spaces are for students, and we are looking thoughtfully at where we can enhance gathering options across campus.”

Some spaces already identified in the strategic plan include a proposed Alumni Center on the Boston campus, intended to host events such as Alumni Weekend and Alumni Board meetings.

“Building a vibrant and inclusive community and intentionally using our facilities to foster that community is a key part of Emerson 2030,” a college spokesperson said in a statement to The Beacon. “We are pleased to give our students a space they have been asking for and look forward to seeing our current and future students continue to find joy and connection at Griff’s.”

SGA Executive Treasurer Oliver Katz noted that community building is often a part of many colleges’ strategic plans, and Emerson is no exception. While universities such as Boston University have large student union buildings, Katz pointed out that Emerson students typically gather in spaces like the Lion’s Den and 172 Tremont.

Griff’s Game Room, he said, will also benefit off-campus and commuter students.

“I think having the game room will be a way for off-campus students to access more informal spaces,” Katz explained. “It will also just be a way to meet new people that you wouldn’t meet because you don’t live in the building.”

Executive Vice President of SGA Angus Abercrombie, who previously served as the organization’s vice treasurer, shared that the administration held several meetings with SGA leadership about third spaces on campus.

“Ultimately, our priority was to see what could be done to make a meaningful change within the short time horizons that Emerson students today have,” he said.

Abercrombie revealed that an unused “small pot” of money from the facilities budget, totaling roughly $200,000, was utilized to fund the game room.

In 2023, Emerson was ranked worst for financial aid in the United States by the Princeton Review. The college has since improved to third place. However, enrollment has dropped, a change attributed in part to “negative press and social media” following student-led pro-Palestine demonstrations and the arrest of 118 people in April 2024.

This decline in enrollment has impacted Emerson’s budget. Last summer, the college laid off 5% of its staff due to budget reductions and offered voluntary resignation benefit packages.

In response to students who wished the funding had gone toward tuition relief, Katz clarified that, to his knowledge, the money could only be used for facilities-related projects.

According to Abercrombie, a $200,000 tuition relief dispensed across the student body would not be substantial enough to significantly offset the rising cost of higher education.

“This isn’t a million-dollar dream game room,” Abercrombie said. “But if you were to compare that to providing additional academic services or reducing tuition significantly per student, it would be such a drop in the bucket.”

Anglade explained that the administration is working to balance fiscal responsibility with strategic investments.

“We will always balance fiscal responsibility with investments that strengthen the student experience. Creating opportunities for students to build community is an important part of that balance,” she said.

Across campus, Winn noted that there is a desire among Emerson’s student body to better understand the institutional finance process.

“We can put more effort towards helping to demystify how budgeting occurs, what the scale of the budget is, and where certain funds are allowed to be allocated,” Winn said. “College funds are pretty specifically allocated. You can only put certain money in certain places.”

Abercrombie added that third spaces like Griff’s Game Room could be a key draw for prospective students.

“One of the most powerful things that makes students who come to Emerson stay at Emerson and not transfer out is having a solid and supportive community,” he said. “Providing space for [students] to feel [community] here in Little Building in their freshman year will [make them] want to stay at Emerson.”
https://berkeleybeacon.com/emerson-college-unveils-griffs-200000-game-room/

Boys Basketball Roundup

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VANDALIA

The Troy boys basketball team got off to a fast start Tuesday night against Vandalia-Butler, but a cold fourth quarter doomed the Trojans in a 55-43 loss in MVL play.

Troy’s Brady O’Leary came out on fire, hitting three 3-pointers in the opening quarter as the Trojans opened a 13-6 lead. Troy led 13-8 after one quarter, but Butler went in front 23-21 at halftime and led 40-36 after three quarters.

The Trojans didn’t score in the first five minutes of the fourth quarter and couldn’t recover. O’Leary led Troy with 11 points, while Josh Murphy had 10 points, three assists, and three steals. Malakyi Hall had seven points and four assists, Ethane Atkins scored six points, and Kardel Winfield pulled down five rebounds.

Tippecanoe 56, Stebbins 44

TIPP CITY – The Tippecanoe boys basketball team used a big second quarter to stay unbeaten in the MVL Tuesday night. The Red Devils trailed 13-7 after one quarter, but outscored Stebbins 27-7 in the second quarter to go in front 34-20. Tipp led 46-31 after three quarters.

Fairborn 48, Piqua 39

FAIRBORN – The Piqua boys basketball team dropped an MVL game on the road Tuesday night. Piqua led 15-10 after one quarter but trailed 25-18 at halftime. The Indians pulled even at 30 after three quarters, but Fairborn outpointed them 18-9 in the fourth quarter.

Troy Christian 67, Covington 43

TROY – It was Brennan Hochwalt’s turn to light it up from the 3-point line for Troy Christian Tuesday night in a TRC win at the Eagles Nest. Hochwalt hit nine of 14 3-pointers and had 31 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three steals in the win.

Troy Christian led 13-8, 26-19, and 43-34 at the quarter breaks. Riston Taylor had 14 points and seven rebounds, and Austin Stangel had 11 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Noah Fecher added seven points, six rebounds, and three assists, while Austen Taylor grabbed six rebounds. Gabriel Wilkins contributed three assists.

Lehman Catholic 61, Milton-Union 53

WEST MILTON – The Lehman Catholic boys basketball team had to rally in the second half to get past Milton-Union Tuesday night. Milton led 14-11 after one quarter and 24-20 at halftime. Lehman pulled even at 39 after three quarters and outscored the Bulldogs 22-14 in the fourth quarter.

CJ Olding led with 25 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and six steals. Shane Frantz added 14 points, Evan O’Leary scored 10 points with three assists, and Braden Ulbrich contributed eight points, five rebounds, and three assists.

For Milton-Union, Levi Brumbaugh scored 24 points and had five assists. Carson Fulton added 11 points, three assists, and three steals, while Wes Schommer scored eight points. Hunter Fraley had six points and five rebounds, and Gauge McKee grabbed five rebounds and had four assists.

Bethel 61, Riverside 47

BRANDT – The Bethel boys basketball team got a win at the Bee Hive Tuesday night. The Bees led 23-9, 35-24, and 45-37 at the quarter breaks.

Cooper Mears led Bethel with 14 points and eight rebounds, and Rueger Harrah had 13 points. Landen Cornwell added 13 points, five assists, and three steals, while Brennan Montgomery contributed seven points and eight rebounds. Carson Vest scored six points and had five rebounds, and Kaden Hardacre added five points.

https://miamivalleytoday.com/boys-basketball-roundup-18/