The OJCL Torch Spring 2016 | Page 4

Spring 2016

Spring 2016

What’ s Happening in Rome?

The Colosseum
The Flavian Amphitheater also known as the Colosseum is possibly the most recognized building in the world but soon it may be getting a bit of a face lift thanks to Diego Della Valle, president of the luxury Italian leather brand Tod’ s. In exchange for advertising rights, he has furnished 33 million US dollars for the project. He has been
given permission to begin restoration in March of 2016. The restoration will include“ cleaning of the travertine exterior, the restoration of underground chambers, new gating, the moving of visitor service stations to an area outside of the building itself, and increased video security.”
The building, which generates 35 million Euros a year in tourism revenue for the Italian government, has been in need of renovations for several years due to motor vehicle traffic in the area. However, some interest groups believe the restorations have a negative effect on the ailing monument. There have been reports of some powder and rocks falling from the great architectural structure which they speculate could be made worse by construction. They claim that the law forbids restoration of large architectural buildings, whereas mosaics, statues, and other smaller works are acceptable.
Now, the question is presented— does the public take up arms against the preservation of the ancient building, or do they allow a private company to go to work on their public reminder of the past?

Tullus Dean, OJCL Parliamentarian, Summit

What’ s Happening in Rome?

You might wonder, " What ' s been happening in Rome lately?" I have your answer! The 2016 Mediterranean Cat Show was held in Rome, Italy on April 3, 2016! How exciting! 
 In this competition, owners show their beautiful cats to a panel of judges, and the judges award the best cats a prize in a ceremony. Owners apply makeup and groom the hair of their felines( derived from the Latin word feles!) to make them look their best. Here are some pictures from the event held in the center of the ancient world!
A sphinx cat poses for the camera. The ancient creature known as the sphinx( half cat, half woman) would kill anyone who couldn ' t answer her riddle!

Julia Dean, OJCL Southern Gubernator, Summit

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