Winter 2025 · Torch: U.S. · STATE UPDATES
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Maryland
"Salvete omnes!
Since attending Nationals, the MDJCL has had its first two in-person events of the year: in September, an Olympika-themed Certamen at the University of Maryland, and in November, a scavenger hunt at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore City! At UMD, we competed in some Olympika of our own, including scooter-chariot races, gladiator fights, and picture trivia. Outside of our main events, we’ve also run two monthly Instagram contests (oreo carving & Halloween costumes), published two editions of the MDJCL Torch, and kickstarted our year-long spirit competition (with the Bryn Mawr School and Easton High School currently in the lead)!
It’s been so much fun getting back together as a state, and we’re looking forward to our next Certamen in December — hosted for the first time ever at the Calvert School!!
Cura ut valeas!"
Massachusetts
"Salvete omnes!
MassJCL started off the season in October with our annual Kickoff, featuring Street Certamen, gladiatorial combat, worm races, and the Marshmallow Catapult contest. As the school year continues, we’re looking forward to our next event: Classics Day at Boston University, where students will attend workshops on topics from “Greek and Latin in the Movies” to “Adapting Ancient Comedy.” This year’s theme is “Legacy: Classics and Modern Times.” We’re also celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of our state publication, the Forum Factorum!"
New Jersey
"Salvete from New Jersey!
Coming from a great summer at Nationals, New Jersey has launched into many fun events for the school year! Our scrapbook theme for this year, decided and designed by our Historian, revolves around the quote Memento vivere which means "remember to live," and what better way to enjoy living other than through board games? Each of our photo of the month contests have corresponded with that theme: September’s theme was Clue, October Candyland, and November Catan. Stay tuned for next month! We’ve also been busy with plenty of community service events planned by our proconsul. In October, we had a Writing Thank You Letters to Teachers event, which was reflective and relaxing for everybody who came. In November, we had a Book Club, where everybody read myths and classical texts, spreading love for the classics. Also in November was a social event organized by our Registrars, our annual Venus de Volleyball.
This winter, look out for a one month long book drive, our Winter Nuntius newsletter, and more! With so much to come, make sure you follow our instagram (@njjcl_) so you don’t miss out!"
By Abigail Lonergan
By Alice Su
By Bani Gourab