This Issue:

Table of Contents

Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

Mini-Lesson

Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

A Tree with Historic Roots Needs Help

The Liberty Tree at St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland, has stood for 400 years in the same spot. But on September 16, Hurricane Floyd huffed and puffed and nearly blew the 96-foot tulip poplar down. The storm loosened a big limb and put a 15-foot crack in the tree's trunk. Now the historic tree may have to be taken down.

The tree is the last of several Liberty Trees planted in the original colonies that became the United States. The tree was the meeting place for the Sons of Liberty, who plotted the American Revolution against the British.

For 70 years, the St. John's College graduation ceremony has been held beneath the tree. Christopher Nelson, president of St. John's, has brought in tree experts to trim branches and figure out how to save it. "The Liberty Tree is not just a tree," he says. "It's a symbol of our national identity."

No matter what, the Liberty Tree will live on. Botanists from Maryland have taken cuttings from the tree, which can be planted elsewhere. They hope to send baby Liberty Trees to all 50 states.

Next: Kitty, Kitty, Kitty!