The year 2020 has been defined by many as something along the lines of “ever-increasingly disastrous.”  However, it is with an optimistic eye to the future and hopes to revive the smiles of the student body that The Schreiber Times proudly introduces its new “Good News” column, and here is just some of November’s good news.

A wave of history-making candidates were  voted into office this Election Day.  Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will not only be the first woman, but also the first Black and Indian American woman to hold the office of the Vice Presidency.  Richie Torres and Mondaire Jones will be the first openly gay Black men elected to Congress, and they will be serving with Marilyn Strickland, Michelle Steel, and Young Kim, the first Korean American women to have been elected to Congress.  Incoming Delaware State Senator Sarah McBride will also become the first openly transgender state senator.

“While I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last, because every little

girl watching tonight sees that this is a country of possibilities,” said Vice President-elect

Kamala Harris.

A potential cure for diabetes may have been discovered by Canadian scientists.  Researchers at the University of Alberta say they’ve found a way to cure diabetes in mice, using stem cells in the pancreas.  This method has far fewer risks than other potential cures and has the possibility of being performed with a one-time injection.  The next step in the hopeful process will be raising money and beginning human trials.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade went on, though virtually.  Some key floats rode in a block-long procession with COVID-19 restrictions.  The parade featured pre-recorded

performances by musicians, the New York City Ballet, casts of multiple Broadway productions,

the Rockettes, and more.  Santa Claus made an appearance at the closing of the event with

trademark cheer.

“The Macy’s Parade is a tradition in my household as well as in those of many others.  As someone who has seen it both live and in person, I am so glad the parade happened this year!” said junior Alex Parker.

COVID-19 vaccines, including one funded by Dolly Parton, are reaching high success rates.  Parton has donated $1 million to COVID-19 research, and part of that donation funded a currently prominent vaccine made by Moderna.  Fifty-five vaccines are currently being tested in

clinical trials on humans, with 13  at “Phase 3”, the last phase before potential approval.

“I find it comforting that we are making such great strides towards a cure for COVID-19,” said junior Angelina Livigni.

SpaceX’s Dragon capsule landed at the International Space Station.  It was the first time a commercial ship sent a long-term crew – in this case, four astronauts – to the Station, and it is said to have changed the game in space travel.

The Trump administration has started the process of preparing the government for a new president.  On Nov. 23, Emily Murphy, the head of the General Services Administration,

stated the transition process would be set into motion.  That night, President Trump tweeted that he is “recommending that Emily… do what needs to be done with regard to initial protocols.”

President Trump has yet to formally concede the election.  However, in light of the fact that Michigan certified its election results declaring President-elect Biden the winner, the administration is taking steps in the right direction towards a peaceful transition of power.

Kim Ng was the first woman named General Manager of a Major League Baseball team.  On Nov. 13, the Miami Marlins announced Ng would be their new general manager,

allowing her to become the highest-ranking female in Major League Baseball operations.  Ng is no stranger to the baseball world; after thirty years in the baseball industry, she is extremely

knowledgeable and brings experience and a unique skill set to the diamond.

“Honestly, I feel like Ng’s appointment shouldn’t be as historic as it is.  She’s a great baseball mind and if anything, is easily one of the most qualified people for the job,” said senior Dylan Schor.

The new Mayor of Rabbit Hash, Kentucky shakes paws with his citizens.  Wilbur Beast, a 6-month-old French bulldog, was elected this November, succeeding Pit Bull Brynneth Pawltrow.  The small Kentucky town has never had a human mayor; their “pet election” is used as a worldwide fundraiser for the local Historical Society.  This year’s election was highly contested, with 16  candidates, including dogs, one cat, one rooster, and one donkey.  If all else fails, in a few years The Schreiber Times looks forward to reporting on the 2024 Rabbit Hash mayoral campaign.  

Tune in next month for some more good news.