Wow...it has been a busy weekend.
On Saturday, I went to the first full day of Sectionals in a long time. The members of Alpha Phi Omega are different, but the spirit of LFS is all the same. More than 300 members (active, pledge, alumni, and staff) were present as Iota Phi (Davis) and Alpha Alpha Xi (Stockton) hosted a full day of events which included workshops on self-defense, parli-pro, and stress management. There was also a full day service project that entailed folding origami for children. Believe me, I butchered the first few paper cranes. At lunch, I went to Applebee's with a bunch of people, including Francis, Jack, and Stan, etc. When we all got back, there was an exhibition planned by the Davis Kendo Club and a hula dance presentation, plus some monologues (very artistic). Afterwards, I made the mistake of eating lunch again at Hoa Viet. My goodness...I was sooo full when it was over. I actually must thank Anna Ng for having us walk because I think if I had sat down, my stomach would have exploded.
Anna got re-elected the Section Chair...yea Anna! And, we all headed to the banquet at the Double Tree Hotel in Sacramento. There was more food there...yikes! Besides the food, there were awards presented to the section for leadership, friendship, and service. And then, there was roll call. I must say that the spirit was high and that the quality of each roll call skit was innovative and most of them were practiced. Gamma Beta's was complex, OZ was daring, and IPhi was definitely funny. And the spirit that Gamma Beta exuded was phenomenal to say the least, esp. with matching attire, a well-coordinated cheer, and brillian smiles. They have certainly become a force in Section 4. I was sad to leave early, but had to waken earlier to prepare for my school conference.
On Sunday, I got ready to go to the California Partnership Academy Conference. I had lunch with Milly and Dave at Black Angus...yummm...and have to Thank Milz for the meal. I drove down with a fellow teacher (Larry Bibayoff) and arrived at the Hyatt in good time ( I was not speeding...) The next two days were full of informative workshops. This time, I actually enjoyed most of them. For some reason, last year's workshops (most of them) had me bored by the time they were halfway over. This year, I actually thought that even the most boring sounding of the speakers had something I wanted to hear. I especially took interest in the project based learning the Buck Institute talked about and had a most entertaining time as Chico High presented their various projects of music and film.
Monday night, I went out to dinner with Kalen, Ellena, Milly, and Jason. More food. I keep eating...and eating out. It is a horrible thing. Anyway, the weekend was eventful; full of service and learning to be sure. Back to work!!!