The last day started off early once again. Everyone ate breakfast and was on the bus by 7:30am. We were all ready for the long bus ride. Everyone was so tired and ready to get home to sleep in their own bed. Emily, Andrea, Ann, and Emily decided no to sleep any last night so they were very tired. We have all became amazing friends and are sad to be leaving but ready to get home.
Blogger: Amber
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
July 5th
Wow it's hard to believe that today was our last full day together as a group. Our day started bright and early as we had to load the bus at 7:30am. Everyone was weary after having only a few hours of sleep. Even our trusty PA had overslept. Jennifer had collected an interesting assortment of goodies that was collected during the final room check. It appeared like most of the items had been collected from the girls' rooms! We spent our time on the bus watching movies and catching up on some much needed sleep. We arrived in Indianapolis at 7:30pm and were treated to a pizza party. We had our final reflections with everyone sharing their favorite memories from our time together. It is going to be good to get home but I think it is safe to say that everyone is going to miss their new friends.
Blogger: Ayrn
Blogger: Ayrn
Saturday, July 05, 2008
July 4th
On the last day in Washington D.C. we took an exciting metro ride to
L-Enfant Plaza. Where we then walked four blocks to get to the
Holocaust Museum. We were then shoved into a single file line to get
through security which, felt like we were being shoved onto box cars
just like the Jews were in World War II. Adam played a trick on Mary
and Marietta with the security at the Holocaust, Joe had said something
wrong and was taken to be detained.
To see the facts and pictures of the people who struggled will be hard
to describe to anyone. After we had went through the museum we decided
to split up into groups of four or more. We were told to be back at
5:30 p.m. When people split and went their own ways, Danielle was
almost left at the Holocaust Museum.
While we were out on our separate ways, Amber and Jessica said that the
4th of July parade was awesome. The drumline and bands were great, but
a lot of people were there. Hope said Jared tried to fly a plane and
that he needed to not be a pilot because he couldn't fly the plane.
Caitlin, Morgan, Lauren, and Catylin got lost in the National History
Museum. Amber reported that her, Emily, Meredith and Jessica had to
pay to get into a McDonalds bathroom. Molly happily said that she,
Susan, Lane, Elissa, Erika, Mariah, Heather and Aaron square danced in
the national mall. An embarrassed Jessica spilt hot tea all over Amber
at lunch. Aaron so got Mary Beth with his shocking gum, so don't ask
Aaron for gum. LOL. Shortly after that Lane got Mary Beth shocked with
his laser pen.
After everyone was done going to the museums and we walked in the rain
to the Jefferson Memorial it stopped raining and while we were sitting
and waiting JD fell asleep. They played the Star Spangled Banner twice
and a man got up and spoke to another group that was there, Lead
America. We all waited patiently in the rain, Joe bought ponchos for
the delegation. While waiting Aaron and Lane went to talk to Minnesota
friends a family from South Africa came and asked what 4-H was and what
it did, he told them. The delegation sang songs before the fireworks.
When the fireworks started they were fast and they came one after the
other. The whole thing lasted 20 minutes. Then we walked back to the
Plaza to get back on the metro. There was a long line so we had to
wait until it calmed down. We then rode the metro all the way back to
the bus stop. We then called Thomas to come pick us up and take us
back to the 4-H center.
L-Enfant Plaza. Where we then walked four blocks to get to the
Holocaust Museum. We were then shoved into a single file line to get
through security which, felt like we were being shoved onto box cars
just like the Jews were in World War II. Adam played a trick on Mary
and Marietta with the security at the Holocaust, Joe had said something
wrong and was taken to be detained.
To see the facts and pictures of the people who struggled will be hard
to describe to anyone. After we had went through the museum we decided
to split up into groups of four or more. We were told to be back at
5:30 p.m. When people split and went their own ways, Danielle was
almost left at the Holocaust Museum.
While we were out on our separate ways, Amber and Jessica said that the
4th of July parade was awesome. The drumline and bands were great, but
a lot of people were there. Hope said Jared tried to fly a plane and
that he needed to not be a pilot because he couldn't fly the plane.
Caitlin, Morgan, Lauren, and Catylin got lost in the National History
Museum. Amber reported that her, Emily, Meredith and Jessica had to
pay to get into a McDonalds bathroom. Molly happily said that she,
Susan, Lane, Elissa, Erika, Mariah, Heather and Aaron square danced in
the national mall. An embarrassed Jessica spilt hot tea all over Amber
at lunch. Aaron so got Mary Beth with his shocking gum, so don't ask
Aaron for gum. LOL. Shortly after that Lane got Mary Beth shocked with
his laser pen.
After everyone was done going to the museums and we walked in the rain
to the Jefferson Memorial it stopped raining and while we were sitting
and waiting JD fell asleep. They played the Star Spangled Banner twice
and a man got up and spoke to another group that was there, Lead
America. We all waited patiently in the rain, Joe bought ponchos for
the delegation. While waiting Aaron and Lane went to talk to Minnesota
friends a family from South Africa came and asked what 4-H was and what
it did, he told them. The delegation sang songs before the fireworks.
When the fireworks started they were fast and they came one after the
other. The whole thing lasted 20 minutes. Then we walked back to the
Plaza to get back on the metro. There was a long line so we had to
wait until it calmed down. We then rode the metro all the way back to
the bus stop. We then called Thomas to come pick us up and take us
back to the 4-H center.
July 3rd
Everyone, well all most everyone, woke up bright and early for the early bird activities this morning. While some people had the misfortunate opportunity to wake up to Lane's pounding on doors, others slept in. Participants enjoyed Ships and Sailors, Kickball, and basketball. Once everyone worked up their hunger, they ate a wonderful breakfast.
Then the delegates attended committees meetings where they had a wrap-up session of their activities. Next, the Kansas delegation traveled to the beautiful National Cathedral. This tourist attraction amazed everyone with articulate Gothic architecture and the awesome fact that Bob Dole was married there.
After touring the cathedral, the group trekked back to the 4-H Center to eat lunch in the Clover Cafe. The CWF delegates broke into discussion groups to comment on various issues in today's world. Then the Kansas 4-Hers gathered in their delegation room to formulate action plans for a community issue. Jeff, the PA, made the comment that Kansas has had the best action plans yet.
Once dismissed from delegation discussion, everyone changed and primped for cultural heritage night. This year the KS delegation dined at Toby's Dinner Theater, where they enjoyed delicious food and the production of "All Shook Up." The entertainment was filled with bight costumes, amazing voices and humor. While at the theater, Marshall was said to have been a gentleman, pulling out chairs and standing up for the ladies when they left the table. Before leaving for Toby's, there was a lint rolling party in Jared's room with Michael B. in charge and Gabriel, Marshall, and JD present.
Of course, there were a few moments to remember...Surprise Surprise, they involved Hope. Molly and Jared got her to believe the torch on the top of the Library of Congress was a spare for the one the Statue of Liberty holds. Also, during delegation action plan discussion, Hope thought Gabriel could really write in Japanese.
While our days in Washington DC are coming to an ed, the bonds of friendship everyone has made have just begun. The memories in this trip will last a lifetime and I know the friendships will too!
Then the delegates attended committees meetings where they had a wrap-up session of their activities. Next, the Kansas delegation traveled to the beautiful National Cathedral. This tourist attraction amazed everyone with articulate Gothic architecture and the awesome fact that Bob Dole was married there.
After touring the cathedral, the group trekked back to the 4-H Center to eat lunch in the Clover Cafe. The CWF delegates broke into discussion groups to comment on various issues in today's world. Then the Kansas 4-Hers gathered in their delegation room to formulate action plans for a community issue. Jeff, the PA, made the comment that Kansas has had the best action plans yet.
Once dismissed from delegation discussion, everyone changed and primped for cultural heritage night. This year the KS delegation dined at Toby's Dinner Theater, where they enjoyed delicious food and the production of "All Shook Up." The entertainment was filled with bight costumes, amazing voices and humor. While at the theater, Marshall was said to have been a gentleman, pulling out chairs and standing up for the ladies when they left the table. Before leaving for Toby's, there was a lint rolling party in Jared's room with Michael B. in charge and Gabriel, Marshall, and JD present.
Of course, there were a few moments to remember...Surprise Surprise, they involved Hope. Molly and Jared got her to believe the torch on the top of the Library of Congress was a spare for the one the Statue of Liberty holds. Also, during delegation action plan discussion, Hope thought Gabriel could really write in Japanese.
While our days in Washington DC are coming to an ed, the bonds of friendship everyone has made have just begun. The memories in this trip will last a lifetime and I know the friendships will too!
July 3rd
We just learned that the bus driver for the state Citizenship Washington Focus trip apparently died of natural causes sometime during the night. He was found in bed in his room this morning. Marietta Slater, our CWF Coordinator, says that he had been feeling badly yesterday, but didn’t request any treatment. We will not be releasing his name until we are sure his family has been properly notified.
The National 4-H Center arranged for another bus and driver to transport our delegation today. This morning they are at the National Cathedral as part of their planned itinerary.
Many of our young people had grown very fond of our driver on their cross country adventure during the past week. We understand it is an emotional time for them which means they are dealing with the issue in a healthy manner.
Kinkaid Motorcoach is arranging for another driver from Maryland to drive the coach. This driver will be taking the delegation on their scheduled itinerary tomorrow, bringing them home starting on Saturday and arriving in Kansas on Sunday.
Please keep our former driver and his family in your prayers as well as our youth, chaperones, and the subsitute bus driver who will be joining the group.
Justin
The National 4-H Center arranged for another bus and driver to transport our delegation today. This morning they are at the National Cathedral as part of their planned itinerary.
Many of our young people had grown very fond of our driver on their cross country adventure during the past week. We understand it is an emotional time for them which means they are dealing with the issue in a healthy manner.
Kinkaid Motorcoach is arranging for another driver from Maryland to drive the coach. This driver will be taking the delegation on their scheduled itinerary tomorrow, bringing them home starting on Saturday and arriving in Kansas on Sunday.
Please keep our former driver and his family in your prayers as well as our youth, chaperones, and the subsitute bus driver who will be joining the group.
Justin
Thursday, July 03, 2008
July 2nd
The 8th day of our adventure started bright and early when Hope set off the fire alarm, then she and her roommates proceeded to get locked out of their room. The day was started off with a big breakfast and we listened to a congressional session, where Kansans took 4 of the 7 spots. Unfortunately, we had to leave early for a tour at Capitol Hill. After walking many miles, we arrived at our destination and toured the Capitol. We were told we looked snazzy and like the interns who worked there and received special treatment. We went and saw Senator Roberts' and Senator Brownback's Offices and got to take pictures sitting in their desks. Each delegate received the opportunity to visit with their district representative office as well. Jessica B got lost in one of the offices and walk out of a door that said "private." After eating dinner at Union Station, we went to Twilight Tattoo. The US Army did drills and played instruments and sang. The girls were excited to take pictures with the soldiers. While at the show, Mary Beth was serenaded and later got a picture with the soldier. As we were driving back to the center, Jennifer reminded us to make sure we take our clothes off due to changing on the bus earlier. What she meant to say was make sure you take your clothes off the bus! A talent show was held and again Kansas was represented well having 5 of the 12 spots. We are so talented!!
July 1st
Our third day at the National 4-H Center began with an early breakfast. Then, it was off to the Arlington National Cemetery. Our first stop there was the Women in Military Service Memorial and Museum. Then we boarded a tram to take the tour of the Cemetery, which included the Kennedy's grave sites. Marietta also gave our tour guide, Norman, a Kansas 4-H pin! Another fascinating experience was viewing the changing of the guards ceremony. After agreeing it was a moving experience for all. We headed to Iwo Jima Memorial. On the way Jeff, our PA, read us a true story about the memorial and the men in it. Next came the WWII Memorial, with only about ten minutes there. Some people rushed to take pictures while others looked up family members on the kiosk. Cassadie thought a quick dip in the pool there would be refreshing, but decided against it instead. Then it was back to the center for workshops and committee meetings. The late afternoon was spent at the Derby playing various games where some got wet.
Dinner was eaten at the Clover Cafe and then the Delegation Think Tank and Reflections were held.
Some of today's excitements told at Reflections included learning the Squirrel and Lemmy Songs, taught to us by our PA, Jeff. Also Meredith and Emily B were told our 4-H Group was very respectful. Genna also found and photographed a stone with her family name on it at Arlington National Cemetery. It was also shared that several of our delegates are holding congressional spots and offices!
Today was also Garrett's birthday!! Hope you had a great day Garrett!
It is safe to say an amazing time was had by all Kansas CWF Delegates and Sponsors today!
Dinner was eaten at the Clover Cafe and then the Delegation Think Tank and Reflections were held.
Some of today's excitements told at Reflections included learning the Squirrel and Lemmy Songs, taught to us by our PA, Jeff. Also Meredith and Emily B were told our 4-H Group was very respectful. Genna also found and photographed a stone with her family name on it at Arlington National Cemetery. It was also shared that several of our delegates are holding congressional spots and offices!
Today was also Garrett's birthday!! Hope you had a great day Garrett!
It is safe to say an amazing time was had by all Kansas CWF Delegates and Sponsors today!
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
June 30th
Our first full day at the 4-H center began at 7am where we enjoyed breakfast in the Clover Cafe. Immediately following breakfast, we boarded the coach on our quest for Mount Vernon. Along the way our trustee PA, Jeff, pointed out various landmarks and sites he thought suitable for our viewing pleasure. Upon arriving to Mount Vernon, we made a mad dash for the Washington Mansion. Following the mansion tour we were allowed to wander about and explore George Washington's estate. The view of the Potomac was absolutely breath taking from the mansion. Some other highlights were: the 16-sided barn, the slave quarters, the interactive movie and George Washington's dentures. Emily B also touched one of Martha's dresses and sounded an alarm at the museum. It gave us all a good laugh. Then we returned to the center for lunch and attended our assigned workshops and various committees. The entire CWF delegation gathered in the auditorium to listen and gain knowledge of citizenship and service from Chad Jeremy. Jeremy works for a national community service organization called, Americorps. Jeremy directs, plans, and carries out training for the Americorps volunteers. After enjoying a delectable feast, we once again boarded the coach for our night view of our nation's capital. Of course our educated and knowledgeable PA shared his vast knowledge with us at each monument. Our first stop was the Lincoln Memorial where we found a misspelled word on the wall. Next were the Korean and Vietnam war Memorials. Respectively many of us were astonished by the causality counts in those wars. When we got to the Jefferson Memorial a light shower fell upon us, but that didn't stop us from catching some breath taking views. The rain didn't detour us from our final destination, the FDR Memorial. Many have said the night view is the best part thus far.
On our way back to the center, we spotted gas for an unbelievable $4.33 per gallon. It's times like these when we truly think there's no place like home!
On our way back to the center, we spotted gas for an unbelievable $4.33 per gallon. It's times like these when we truly think there's no place like home!
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