The Association went to competition this morning in Twinsburg, so the best of luck to them!

For the news side of things, if you're wondering what exactly is happening, here’s a simplified answer.

President Viktor Yanukovych of Ukraine is believe by many to be a very corrupt man. Ukraine has had many economic troubles as of now, and had on the table a deal of free trade with the European Union. However, Yanukovych chose to instead take a deal the people largely didn’t agree with that was with Russia. Because of the already saddened state in Ukraine, the people are in civil disrest. Rioting, protests, and large amounts of police brutality have been seen that the small country has captured the world’s attention, including our president’s. "We expect the Ukrainian government to show restraint, to not resort to violence in dealing with peaceful protestors," President Barack Obama said. Obama and Vladimir Putin (Russia’s president) are currently conversing over what exactly to do to halt violence in Ukraine.

Here is a promotional video from the Ukrainian people’s side of things showing examples of some of the crippling violence the country has seen. So far estimates say over 70 people have been killed and hundreds injured in the protests.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hvds2AIiWLA

Speaking of presidents, today also marks the birthdate of our first president, George Washington. As well, for girl scout and boy scout clubs, today is a day marked by either side as a celebration for what both organizations stand for. The organizations use this date annually to think of their “brothers” or “sisters” in other parts of the world and the struggles they face, much like those currently being faced in Ukraine.