Hello Friends,
The air felt different this week. We finally got a burst of a cool breeze in Texas, and the feeling of a change in seasons came with it.
I composed the above line before Friday afternoon, when a ground stop halted most flights in America. See what happens when I write something about "turning the page"? A newsroom jinx!
So knock on wood. Toss a little salt over your shoulder. Check your headlamp supply (never a bad thing). Here are the three things that made us SmartHER this week!
✈️ Tracon: Never heard of it. But probably should know more about "Terminal Radar Approach Control." The below image from American Airlines helped me visualize what Transportation Sec. Duffy described as part of the issue with the FAA nationwide ground stop. While DHS Sec. Mullin would not rule out a cyberattack, he said the more likely culprit was "patchwork" fixes to older infrastructure. Consider this a developing story.
🏛️ History Hiding In Plain Sight: Many headlines described the newly elected senator in Mississippi, Scott Colom, as the third black senator in the state's history. So who were the first two? Senators Hiram Revels (first) and Blanche Bruce (second). Revels and Bruce represented Mississippi immediately after the Civil War. In fact, Revels delivered a speech on the Senate floor two days after Mississippi rejoined the Union.
🐠 One Man's Trash, One Fish's Treasure: On Veterans Day, we witnessed the SS United States literally "sink into" its next service: the world largest artificial reef. Corals need a hard surface to grow on, making the SS United States (a larger ship than the Titanic) a good candidate. The ship previously held the record as the fastest passenger liner to cross the Atlantic and once transported presidents and even the Mona Lisa. Now, clean and free of toxins before sinking, the ship will provide a home for fish and other sea life, taking some pressure off fragile natural reefs.
Fresh Lips: I always go back to this overnight lip mask, and just found this gift set of minis that I can divide up for stocking stuffers (and for me!).
Fresh Prints: Nice wrapping paper makes all the difference — you can often wrap faster and prettier. I love Rifle Paper & Co. for this vintage wrapping paper. I also love these lightweight, grab-and-go notebooks and these special journals that look elevated but don't break the bank.
Fresh Lists: Our SmartHER Gift Guides are live! 🎁 The best way to tick things off your Christmas list and support a free press at the same time.
🩷,
Jenna
🎈 Parade Preview: This year marks the 100th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the newest balloon is Billie Brightpaw, a teddy bear in a red hat and scarf that was created by Macy's to celebrate the milestone. Sorcerer Mickey and Underdog also make their parade debut. Here's the full lineup, route and balloon inflation details if you're planning to watch:
