It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.

Another Greek summer, with much potential at our doorstep; however, it was a Greek summer of Covid and fires.

Just as we began to meet up with family and friends, swimming together, clinking glasses in celebration, watching movies at outdoor cinemas, eating out at old, familiar haunts, long-abandoned, but not forgotten, the fires ravaged large areas of our country.

Forests destroyed; homes and businesses charred. The loss of lives—this time, the numbers were low, though even one life lost is one too many.

So much gone during a summer that looked hopeful after lost opportunities during months of lockdown.

It was difficult to watch the news and difficult not to.

AWOG, once again, found a way to help those in need:  more than 100 handmade masks, crafted by talented members and friends of AWOG, along with headbands and scrunchies were donated to the Halkida branch of Σώμα Ελληνικού Οδηγισμού (Greek Guiding Association) and distributed to people in Evia who are very much in need of masks.  We hope these beautiful, colorful masks, made with love, will help them and perhaps bring them some needed cheer.  We also sent three pallets of household paper and cleaning products with the help of our loyal sponsor Mr. Telis Thanopoulos.  These products were transported, free of charge, by Endless Paper.