Shadow and light- Atlanta

 

SkillsUSA Conference 2026

For the 38th time, I covered the National Leadership Skills Conference for SkillsUSA. This year there were almost 19,000 competitors and supporters in Atlanta GA, where students who were medal winners in their home states or US territories competed in their trade and skills areas.

Thanks to Craig Moore, Clare Briner, Brooke Gatchell, Alexis Pratt, Jacob Leftwich, Kelley Wheeler, and the rest of the dedicated SkillsUSA crew for the opportunity to be of service once again. 

Graduation party for Eliana G

Eliana G., the youngest daughter of Zufan G., just graduated from high school. Their family came from Eritrea as refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic, and have worked hard to build a life in their new home. Eliana was a leader in her school, and has received a scholarship to attend college in the fall. The refugee relief committee of my havurah, Fabrangen, has been sponsoring and working with them after being linked up by ECDC, the Ethiopian Community Development Council. We are very proud of Eliana and her entire family for their strength, hard work, and courage, and wish them a bright future. 

Plus, great injera and homemade Eritrean food. Thanks also to the dedicated and kind members of Fabrangen who have been there for the family.