BY SIMONE J. SMITH

From ancient civilizations marking seasons by the sun and moon to modern-day astronomers unlocking the universe’s secrets, our fascination with the cosmos remains undiminished. For many, these events are more than just scientific occurrences; they offer: a sense of wonder, connection to something larger than us, and a reminder of our place within the grand cosmic scheme.

Each full moon has a unique name that reflects its agricultural past, primarily due to the vital role these celestial events played in guiding ancient farming practices. Since many early societies relied heavily on agriculture for survival, they closely observed the natural world, including the lunar cycle. The names given to each full moon often describe: the seasonal changes, animal behaviors, or plant growth associated with that particular time of year. For example, the “Harvest Moon” signifies the time of year when crops are ready for gathering, while the “Flower and Strawberry Moon” indicates the optimal period for sowing seeds. These names served as valuable reminders for farmers, helping them plan their planting, harvesting, and other agricultural activities in accordance with the natural rhythms of the year.

While modern life is largely detached from the direct influence of the lunar cycle, its impact is still seen in modern day society. Farmers may still consider the moon’s phases when planting and harvesting crops, aligning their activities with perceived lunar influences on plant growth. Fishermen may observe the moon’s position to predict tides, impacting their fishing schedules. Additionally, the lunar cycle continues to hold cultural and spiritual significance for many, influencing celebrations, rituals, and personal practices such as meditation and self-reflection.

In 2025, you’ll have the chance to see 12 full moons, including three supermoons and two lunar eclipses. Besides the usual collection of full moons in 2025, there will also be three supermoons (when the moon’s monthly perigee, or closest point to Earth, coincides with its full phase) and two total lunar eclipses, the first since 2022.

• Monday, January 13^th: Wolf Moon (22:26 UTC/5:26 p.m. EST)
• Wednesday, February 12^th: Snow Moon (13:52 UTC/8:52 a.m. EST)
• Friday, March 14^th: Worm Moon (6:54 UTC/2:54 a.m. EDT) — also a total lunar eclipse
• Saturday, April 12^th: Pink Moon (0:22 UTC/8:22 p.m. EDT)
• Monday, May 12^th: Flower Moon (16:56 UTC/12:56 p.m. EDT)
• Wednesday, June 11^th: Strawberry Moon (7:45 UTC/3:45 a.m. EDT)
• Thursday, July 10^th: Buck Moon (20:39 UTC/4:39 p.m. EDT)
• Saturday, August 9^th: Sturgeon Moon (7:58 UTC/3:58 a.m. EDT)
• Sunday, September 7^th: Corn Moon (18:12 UTC/2:12 p.m. EDT) — also a total lunar eclipse
• Monday, October 6^th: Harvest Moon (3:50 UTC/11:50 p.m. EDT) — also a supermoon
• Wednesday, November 5^th: Beaver Moon (13:21 UTC/8:21 a.m. EST) — also a supermoon
• Thursday, December 4^th: Cold Moon (23:15 UTC/6:15 p.m. EST) — also a supermoon

The moon will be big news in late 2025, with NASA targeting September 2025 to launch its Artemis II mission. The first crewed Artemis mission to the moon since 1972 will send four astronauts on a 10-day mission to orbit and travel beyond the moon. The following mission, Artemis III, will ferry two astronauts to the lunar surface. That’s scheduled for September 2026.

The two lunar eclipses in 2025 will be hugely impressive events. The first, on March 13^th to 14^th, will be a total lunar eclipse, during which the full Worm Moon will drift through earth’s inner umbral shadow and turn a reddish-orange color for 65 minutes from 2:26 to 3:31 a.m. EDT, according to Timeanddate.com. It will be best seen from North and South America.

The second, on September 7^th to 8^th, will be another total lunar eclipse, during which the Harvest Moon will enter earth’s inner umbral shadow and turn a reddish-orange color for 82 minutes from 1:30 to 2:52 a.m. EDT, according to Timeanddate.com. It will be best seen from Asia and Australia.

So, mark your calendars, astronomy enthusiasts! 2025 promises a dazzling array of celestial events. Prepare to be amazed by the wonders of the universe as we embark on this celestial journey together.

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

A kaleidoscope of color explodes onto the street. Elaborate costumes, shimmering with sequins and feathers, dance and sway to the infectious rhythms.

Junkanoo. The very word evokes a symphony of sound and color, a vibrant explosion of Bahamian culture that pulsates through the streets of Nassau. A celebration that transcends time, a vibrant expression of Bahamian soul, a reminder that even in the darkest times, the spirit of joy can always prevail.

The music will come, but first, you must understand the heart of Junkanoo. It’s in the making. In the crafting of costumes. Each feather, each bead, tells a story. It’s in the rhythms, passed down through generations, a heartbeat of the island. Watch them. See how their movements flow, a vibrant expression of joy and freedom. Our ancestors, through hardship and joy, found ways to express themselves. Junkanoo is their legacy, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always room for music and dance. Junkanoo is more than just a parade; it’s a celebration of life, a testament to our resilience.

Junkanoo is gearing up to be brighter, louder, and better than ever. This year’s celebration promises exciting new twists on the iconic Bahamian street parade, with revitalized costumes, incredible new music and unforgettable energy that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a Junkanoo veteran, or a first-timer ready to experience the thrill, The Bahamas uncovered all the exciting highlights, secret insider tips, and breathtaking, can’t-miss moments of Junkanoo 2024.

The brand new Bahamas Museum of Junkanoo, located at Nassau Cruise Port, is a vibrant showcase of Bahamian heritage that brings the beautiful tradition of Junkanoo to life. Opened to honour the fascinating history and progressive evolution of the festival, this dazzling museum is a vivid space where locals and visitors alike can connect with Junkanoo’s rich roots.

Through dynamic displays of masterfully handmade costumes, colourful masks and traditional instruments, guests explored the true artistry and hard work that makes Junkanoo unforgettable. The Museum of Junkanoo beckons all from far and wide to delve into the origins of Junkanoo, tracing its strong connection to West African heritage and its rise to becoming a national Bahamian celebration. For anyone planning to attend the live Junkanoo events, the museum provides a fascinating yet informative introduction, offering context and valuable insight into the cultural significance of the festivity.

The Junkanoo festivities kicked off with the highly anticipated Boxing Day Parade on December 26^th, setting the stage for a season of vibrant celebration. There was fierce competition between major Junkanoo groups, but also a category for: individuals, residents, and visitors, to participate. In the early morning hours, Nassau’s Bay Street and Shirley Street came alive with the sounds of drums, horns and cheers as brilliantly costumed performers showcased their passion for Bahamian heritage.

The party doesn’t stop here! As the sun rises on January 1^st, 2025, Nassau’s streets light up once more with the electrifying New Year’s Junkanoo Parade. This epic extravaganza is jam-packed with loads of Bahamian pride, featuring brilliantly decorated dancers, vibrant floats and lively music that fills the streets with joy.

Imagine streets packed with revellers, all decked out and ready to dance, sing, and celebrate their way into 2025. The Boxing Day and New Year’s Day parades offer an unforgettable experience, with families, friends and visitors from around the world joining together to celebrate the holidays and start the year in true Junkanoo style.

Feel the energy, child. Let the music move you. Junkanoo is a gift, a reminder to embrace the joy of life and celebrate our unique heritage. For those who want to dive deeper into the excitement of Junkanoo 2024, including event information, schedules and more about this year’s festivities, visit the official Bahamas website. Here, you will find the ultimate guide to everything Junkanoo, offering an insider’s look at the Caribbean’s most iconic festival.

BY STEVEN KASZAB

The assassination of Brian Thompson, the CEO of United Healthcare has ignited a social controversy about how society should react to such a public murder, and to where some members of society place their support. There is a surprising lack of support for the victim, and many people are celebrating the murder and cheering for the suspected killer 26-year-old Luigi Mangione.

Mangione believes the killing of a single person pales in comparison to the immense harm done by his employer and by the private healthcare insurance industry as a whole. Many people support this attitude pointing out that profiteering from healthcare and the providing of pharmaceuticals is morally reprehensible. The system has created a major backlash that may take decades to deal with. Examples of clients paying their monthly rates for decades, only to be dropped after they get ill seems numerous and the firm’s actions unsound.

The moral indifference of the public to this killing, and the many cases of open approval on social media of the killing of a father of two children has brought up many moral and ethical questions. Is it morally wrong to celebrate the killing of a victim belonging to a system perceived to be evil?

This is no ordinary killing, but one reminiscent of murders carried out a century before by socially armed anarchists fighting an unjust and greedy system that profited on the denial of services and care for the more vulnerable. Mangione struck out at an injustice, just like an assassin who shoots a doctor who carries out abortions.

Morally murder is murder, an injustice in itself so can these people support such a heartless back shooting scenario? Mangione a hero? Hell No! Criminality is simply criminality. Democracy cannot allow such an expression of injustice, while at the same time allowing an entire industry sector to profiteer from people’s anguish and pain.

A curse upon the misguided sectors of healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Leave it to God to deal with it since human beings simply cannot.