Monday, June 20, 2011

Youth Tour Day 8-June 19, 2009

We’ve been on the bus all night with some pit stops along the way. Everyone is tired and tired of being on the bus. Youth Tour was great, but now everyone is just excited to get home and see their loved ones. The hardest part about today is saying goodbye to all our friends. Hopefully we will see each other again…maybe at camp this summer, school next year or even college. We hug each other with the promises of staying in touch. Now we can’t wait to tell our loved ones about our exciting week of adventure. It was a great trip! A trip of a life time! A trip that will make us better citizens and community leaders! 2011 Youth Tour Rocks!!!

Here’s what today’s bloggers had to say:

Emily is DEMCO’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was sleeping on the bus. Though uncomfortable it was enjoyable. We all mellowed out because we were sad about the trip coming to a close.
Her least favorite part of the day was saying goodbye to the people I have come to regard as close friends.
Today’s activities taught Emily riding on the bus for 24 hours taught me to respect one another not only for our similarities, but also for our differences.
Emily would like to say to her loved ones back home…though this trip has been amazing, I have missed my family. I look forward to seeing them soon.

Ryan is BECI’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was eating at Cracker Barrel. A taste of home, close to home. It was a great opportunity to eat and socialize with my friends one last time.
His least favorite part of the day was riding 24 hours is always exhausting experience, but the movies and laughter made it worth the while.
Today’s activities reminded Ryan that “YOU ONLY GET OUT WHAT YOU PUT IN” As I reflected on the trip and my new found friends, I was so glad that I took advantage of all this trip had to offer.
Ryan would like to say to his loved ones back home…just thanks for being the doors God has opened in my life. With your support, I wouldn’t be half of what I am today. I love yall and I appreciate all you contribute to my life.
I plan on representing LA in nothing less than an excellent manner on the YLC> We’re going all the way this year!!!

To view our pictures from today go to the link below. We have 2 photo galleries one is from our Leadership Conference in March and the other is this week’s Youth Tour. New photos will be posted each night.
Photo Gallery:
http://photos.youthtour.org/2011YouthTour/Louisiana/17366516_VkXtZ3#1319901344_K8CGXgM

Youth Tour Day 7-June 16, 2011

We had to check out of our hotel first thing this morning and load the bus we will be traveling home in. Then we boarded another bus for a full day of touring before we start heading home. Everyone is very tired at this point. It’s been a tough but fun week. Most of us are also eager to get home and see our loved ones. There are just a few more things we need to do before we head home such as touring the Ford’s Theatre and the Peterson House. Unfortunately, the Peterson House was under renovation. Ford’s Theatre is where President Lincoln was assassinated, and then they took him across the street to the Peterson House where he died. During lunch we finished up some last minute souvenir purchases at the Hard Rock CafĂ© and other souvenir stores. Our final museum was the Crime and Punishment Museum. We had an awesome time touring the museum learning about famous crimes, but the best part was the forensic exercises. We were able to cast Kayla’s shoe print and each person got to dust for finger prints.
We wrapped up our site seeing with a final tour of the FDR memorial.
We returned to our hotel to board our bus we are coming home in. Now it is time to get settled for a long night of riding on the bus. Tonight we will not stop at a hotel; hopefully we will get some rest on the bus.

Here’s what today’s bloggers had to say:

Caroline is Claiborne’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was the Crime and Punishment Museum. It was absolutely great. It was probably the most fun museum we have been to.
Her least favorite part of the day was rushing to get ready this morning and loading the bus to come home. Even though I woke up two hours early I was running late.
Today’s activities taught Caroline that investigations of crimes are nothing like what they show on TV (surprise surprise). The mimage I had in my head was completely wrong.
Caroline would like to say to her loved ones back home…I miss all of you very much. I can’t wait to see you and tell you all about this trip. It has been amazing!!

Josh is Jeff Davis’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was the FDR memorial.
His least favorite part of the day was nothing really.
Today’s activities taught Josh to put his own problems out of the way to help everyone enjoy the trip.
Josh would like to say to his loved ones back home…thank you for allowing me to come on this trip.


Kayla is NRG’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was enjoying the Crime and Punishment Museum. It was very hands on.
Her least favorite part of the day was…today was fairly easy, so I can’t say I had a hard part or a least favorite.
Today’s activities taught Kayla the Crime and Punishment Museum has enhanced my knowledge of crime, punishment, and law enforcement.
Kayla would like to say to her loved ones back home..I love you and I’m on my way home.
Kalya would also like to say thanks for being genuinely caring chaperones.


To view our pictures from today go to the link below. We have 2 photo galleries one is from our Leadership Conference in March and the other is this week’s Youth Tour. New photos will be posted each night.
Photo Gallery:
http://photos.youthtour.org/2011YouthTour/Louisiana/17366516_VkXtZ3#1319901344_K8CGXgM

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Youth Tour Day 6-June 15, 2011

It’s Capitol Hill Day! Everyone was dressed in their polo shirts; we are a good looking bunch headed to meet our Congressmen and Senators. We started our day by touring the United States Capitol. At the welcome center we watched a video about the capitol, then we toured the hall of statues and the rotunda. It truly is a magnificent building. The rest of the day was set aside for touring the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress and most importantly our individual appointments with our elected officials. During our appointments, we were able to ask questions about what their jobs are like as well as discuss with them issue that important to us and our loved ones back home. Not many people ever have the chance to meet their elected officials let alone visit with them in their offices…this was an opportunity of a life time. The day ended with the All States Farewell Dinner and Dance. All youth tour delegates from the United States gather again for one final party. There was dancing, movies, games and plenty visiting. It was a great event, but we were sad to say goodbye to our friends we had met from other states.
Here’s what today’s bloggers had to say:

Stephen is ALEC’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was being able to have fun and fellowship with all my friends I met here. As well as getting to see our nation’s capital and watching everybody laugh at me.
His least favorite part of the day was all the walking.
Today’s activities taught Stephen that he may want to go into politics.
Stephen would like to say to his loved ones back home…I’ll be home Friday.
Also some advice for those attending future trips to the capital…don’t wear steel toe shoes!

Holton is DEMCO’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was learning and exploring the Capitol and Library of Congress. Along with obtaining my Library Card from the Library of Congress. Also known as the “Spartan Card”!
His least favorite part of the day was the steep hills we had to walk up near the Capitol.
Today’s activities have given Holton a better understanding of our federal system of government.
Holton would like to say to his loved ones back home…Almost done; be home soon! Miss you all !!!
Spartans RULE!!!!

Anelcia is NRG’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was getting to meet my Congressman and getting to discuss all the issues we felt were very important.
Her least favorite part of the day was having to walk up all those steps and dealing with the sun beaming down on us.
Today’s activities taught Anelcia that my opinion counts and I believe that I have become a much more well rounded and statistically a better human being in today’s society.
Anelcia would like to say to her loved ones back home…It’s been a wonderful experience and I really can’t wait to see you all. I will remember the beginning of this experience and bring it back home for all of you to enjoy.
As long as Louisiana is still rolling the party is still going.

To view our pictures from today go to the link below. We have 2 photo galleries one is from our Leadership Conference in March and the other is this week’s Youth Tour. New photos will be posted each night.
Photo Gallery:
http://photos.youthtour.org/2011YouthTour/Louisiana/17366516_VkXtZ3#1319901344_4r

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Youth Tour Day 5-June 14, 2011

First Happy Flag Day and Happy Anniversary to the U.S. Army!

Today we started our day after breakfast with photos at the Iwo Jima Memorial. While there we saw the Marine Corp band practicing for the sunset parade. Then it was off to Arlington Cemetery. What a beautiful and somber site. We took the tram tour and visited President Kennedy’s grave, General Lee’s home and the Tomb of the Unknown soldier. At the Tomb of the Unknown solider we watched the changing of the guard ceremony. It is amazing to watch those soldiers move with such precision to show honor and respect to our fallen. After a quick lunch, we toured the World War II Memorial, Lincoln Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Jefferson Memorial and Korean War Memorial. At the Holocaust Memorial Museum, we took a somber journey through the memorial. Each person was given a card with an individual’s story and at the end of the tour it was revealed whether your person lived or died. Before dinner we made a quick stop at the Einstein statue and then we took photos in front of the White House. We spent the evening dining and shopping at the Pentagon City Mall.
Here’s what today’s bloggers had to say:

Brittany is BECI’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was the Holocaust Museum.
Her least favorite part of the day was the DC traffic.
Today’s activities taught Brittany that even spouses and minor children of war veterans can be buried in Arlington. For example, President Kennedy is buried with his family.
Brittany would like to say to her loved ones back home…I love you and miss you all and cannot wait to get home.

Matthew is SLECA’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was the Holocaust Museum also.
His least favorite part of the day was all the walking…but it was worth it. He enjoyed seeing all the monuments especially the holocaust memorial.
Today’s activities taught Matthew that the holocaust museum was an extremely informative and eye opening experience. I had heard much about the Holocaust but the exhibits made the truth of the Holocaust come to life.
Matthew would like to say to his loved ones back home…I like DC but can’t wait to see y’all at home.

Caleb is WST’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was going to the Iwo Jima Memorial to see the Marine Corp Band and seeing the massive statue.
His least favorite part of the day was touring the monuments in the afternoon even though I was extremely tired.
Today’s activities taught Caleb about the many horrible things that happened during the holocaust in a new physical/visual way through the Holocaust museum.
Caleb would like to say to his loved ones back home…I’m enjoying my time, seeing things I never thought I would see. Miss you and Jesus loves you!!! :-)

To view our pictures from today go to the link below. We have 2 photo galleries one is from our Leadership Conference in March and the other is this week’s Youth Tour. New photos will be posted each night.
Photo Gallery:
http://photos.youthtour.org/2011YouthTour/Louisiana/17366516_VkXtZ3#1319901344_K8CGXgM

Monday, June 13, 2011

Youth Tour Day 4-June 13, 2011

This morning we attended the Rural Electric Youth Rally Day. There were about 1500 teenagers from all over the United States. There was plenty excitement in the air when we first arrived each state was yelling their cheers, we traded stickers, pins and beads for our name badges. Once the program began, Ryan sat on stage and introduced our state. He did a great job.

The program also featured David Landis. He provided a vibrant historical character portrayal of United States Senator George W. Norris. Sen. Norris saw the need for and shepherded the enactment of the Rural Electrification Administration (REA) and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). These two historic pieces of legislation gave rise to rural electric cooperatives and public power. Landis will explain why some elements of the politics surrounding these important issues in the 1930's are still very much alive today.
Keynote speaker Mike Schlappi had an inspiring message for every American, young or old: "Just because you can't stand up, doesn't mean you can't stand out. At the age of 14, Schlappi was student body president and an Eagle Scout, and was dreaming of a career as a top American athlete when he was involved in a tragic shooting accident. Doctors told him he would never walk again, but after months of rigorous therapy, he began playing basketball from his wheelchair and went on to become an athletic standout. Schlappi is a four-time Paralympics Medalist and two-time World Champion in Wheelchair Basketball. The only wheelchair basketball player in the United States to be on four consecutive summer Paralympics teams, Schlappi was honored by the state of Utah in 2000 as one of its Top 50 athletes of the past century.
After Youth Rally we spent the day touring the Smithsonian’s. Many of us visited the Air and Space, Natural History, American History and American Indian museums as well as many different art museums and the sculpture garden.
We ended our day with a river boat cruise down the Potomac River on a luxury yacht. There was a DJ on all levels of the boat for us to party and the top level was an observation deck. We cruised past the Reagan International Airport and we saw the DC and Arlington sky lines while watching the sun set. It was a great first day in our nation’s capital.
Here’s what today’s bloggers had to say:

Kathryn is Northeast’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was the motivational speaker, Mike Schlappi. I feel like I’ve grown as well as the other people on the Louisiana Youth Tour just by listening to his sermon on life.
Her hardest part of the day was visiting the Smithsonian and not having enough time to truly admire the museums.
Today’s activities taught Kathryn that you must learn to live with your own peronals “bullets” in order to have an outstanding life. It has release some of my self-consciousness into a confident young woman.
Kathryn would like to say to her loved ones back home…I love all of you very much and I can’t wait to be with you all again!

Marquisse is DEMCO’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was the dance on the cruise ship.
His least favorite part of the day was walking around so much and getting lost.
Today’s activities taught Marquisse to dance more!
Marquisse would like to say to his loved ones back home…I’m having so much sparting fun!! (Marquiesse and crew are reliving their days in Spartan…while driving everyone nuts. Every sentence, phrase or word has to start with Spartan. However, they are having a blast and keeping the chaperones in stitches.)

Payton is PCEMC’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was looking at the First Ladies dresses and the fabulous jewels in the different museums.
Her least favorite part of the day was waking up at 6:00 a.m.
Today’s activities taught Payton about the different kinds of gems.
Payton would like to say to her loved ones back home…even though I’m not feeling good, I am having a wonderful time and I Love Yall!!!

To view our pictures from today go to the link below. We have 2 photo galleries one is from our Leadership Conference in March and the other is this week’s Youth Tour. New photos will be posted each night.
Photo Gallery:
http://photos.youthtour.org/2011YouthTour/Louisiana/17366516_VkXtZ3#1319901344_K8CGXgM

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Youth Tour Day 3-June 12, 2011

Today we were back on the road. This afternoon we stopped at Natural Bridge, Virginia. It is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The pictures just do not do this rock bridge any justice. It is truly a magnificent site. It rained on us for a brief moment, but we did not let it stop us. We hiked along the nature trails and saw an authentic Indian Village, water falls and the historic site where George Washington carved his initials in the rock after surveying the area. It was a great break in the day to get some exercise and take our minds off the long bus trip. After a couple hours it was time to board the bus to make our final trek into DC. We were greeted at the hotel by the Red Shirts. Red Shirts are former Youth Leadership Council Members that are here to help out for the week. After we checked into our rooms and got settled we had a pizza party at our hotel and voted on our Youth Leadership Council Representative for 2011. Congratulations to Ryan Hitchens. We know he will make an excellent representative for us and everyone back home in Louisiana.

Here’s what today’s bloggers had to say:

Alex is ALEC’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was arriving in D.C. and seeing all the other states. It was a different state around each corner.
His least favorite part of the day was not being able to sleep on the bus.
Today’s activities taught Alex every time you meet new people you grow a little.
Alex would like to say to his loved ones back home Thank you for supporting and pushing me towards everything. I love yall!
THE TRIP JUST STARTED!!!!

Caitlyn is PCEMC’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was trading pins with students from different states.
Her least favorite part of the day was riding on the bus.
Today’s activities taught Caitlyn that meeting new people is fun!
Caitlyn would like to say to his loved ones back home…I love and miss yall!
Caitlyn thinks we should have more free time to meet students and collect pins. (Side note…Caitlyn will have plenty time to do that tomorrow.)

Rebecca is BECI’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was seeing the Natural Bridge.
Her least favorite part of the day was riding on the bus all day.
Today’s activities taught Rebecca after watching the video about the White House that it had caught on fire and burned during a war.
Rebecca would like to say to his loved ones back home---Everyone would love the hills and driving through the Appalachian Mountains. I know they’re jealous!!

Ashley is PCEMC’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was getting off the bus…FINALLY! Getting to see some sights.
Her least favorite part of the day was trying to find a comfortable position on the bus.
Today’s activities taught Ashley to be patient while on the bus and she also made new friends.
Ashley would like to say to her loved ones back home…I miss yall lots! And can’t wait to come home to boiled crawfish.
Ashley would also like to thank PCEMC for the extra spending money.


To view our pictures from today go to the link below. We have 2 photo galleries one is from our Leadership Conference in March and the other is this week’s Youth Tour. New photos will be posted each night.
Photo Gallery:
http://photos.youthtour.org/2011YouthTour/Louisiana/17366516_VkXtZ3#1319901344_K8CGXgM

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Youth Tour Day 2-June 11, 2011

This morning we woke up very early at 5:00 a.m. We had to pack the bus and board. We spent the entire day on the bus. We drove through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. We are spending the night in Knoxville tonight. The bus stopped pretty often today to let us walk around and use the rest rooms. We also had donuts on the bus, stopped for breakfast at McDonald’s and had lunch at Wendy’s. While traveling we watched movies, listen to our mp3 players, visited with each other and napped. Tonight we had dinner at Famous Dave’s BBQ and then returned to the hotel. Once we returned to the hotel it was time for us to settle in for the night because we have another long day on the road.

Here’s what today’s bloggers had to say:

Paige is SLECA’s delegate:
Her favorite part of the day was watching the movie Avatar for the first time.
Her least favorite part of the day was that she was uncomfortable all day on the bus.
Today’s activities taught Paige that she has to be patient.
Paige would like to say to her loved ones back home that she loves them and hope that they keep safe. Hope all good :-)

Dakota is ALEC’s delegate:
His favorite part of the day was getting to hangout with everyone.
His least favorite part of the day was that I didn’t really have a least favorite part of the day. I love to travel and talk to it was right up my ally.
Today’s activities taught Dakota to bring a blanket because the bus gets cold.
Dakota would like to say to his loved ones back home…I’m having fun!!

To view our pictures from today go to the link below. We have 2 photo galleries one is from our Leadership Conference in March and the other is this week’s Youth Tour. New photos will be posted each night.
Photo Gallery:
http://photos.youthtour.org/2011YouthTour/Louisiana/17366516_VkXtZ3#1319901344_K8CGXgM