Day 2 in Colombia

Hello from an awesome Colombian computer here at the Y in Ibague, which we have discovered contains fun symbols like Ñçç¡¿ Other than having fun with the new symbols on the keyboard, we have had a lot of fun getting to meet the staff from the YMCA, Adrianna, Consuelo, Jaime, Luzayeda, and Nelly. After the five hour bus ride through the beautiful Colombian countryside, we were treated to a delicious native lunch at a local restaurant, consisting of plaintain soup with fresh bananas, chicken and rice and their version of banana-nut bread. Following that, we met our homestay families and settled in before arriving at the YMCA to tell the staff about the Model United Nations and Youth in Government conferences and Plan Padrino.

We`ll update soon with pictures and video! More adventures to come!

Taking a Trip to Colombia!

We are excited to announce that two of our MUN high school participants, Associate Director, and a volunteer will be headed to Ibague, Colombia next week to learn more about the Plan Padrino Program which we support through our Model United Nations program.  The Plan Padrino Program (translated God Father) provides sustainable funds for school, school supplies, and school uniforms for under-served students in Colombia.  Every other year we have had the privilege of bringing a group of students from Colombia to our MUN conferences and this year, we are pleased to take a group of American students there.  We hope that the trip will provide participants with a deeper cultural understanding and awareness that will aid in teaching our MUN students and the students in Colombia about the world and the many perspectives of those that inhabit it.  Be sure to follow our blog over the next two weeks so you can stay up to date on our trip with pictures, videos, and stories as we travel to Ibague and Bogota!

What's up with press?

Press Update!

We are currently working on the first paper of the day-- almost ready to print! Be sure to check it out.  In this issue, we covered things such as the dance, gubernatorial speeches, organic food, unusual bills, music and movie reviews, and fun polls!

Pictures from Governor's Banquet and Officer Auction

FRIDAY'S DANCE

REVIEW

Delegates seemed to enjoy the dance on Friday night after the Governor's Banquet.  Although most of them were on the dance floor, there were still some students at tables or in the hallway socializing with friends.  Andrew Gossett complied the music for the dance, but students requested songs as well.  Excitement is spreading for Saturday's night dance where the theme is "Black and White."

Governor's Banquet

Last night at the Governor’s banquet, the four Gubernatorial candidates gave their speeches. 

Caylyn Harvey, a junior at Brentwood Academy, spoke about her dedication to the conference and her plans to improve education and clean energy.  She has reiterated her ideas to voters throughout the weekend, giving them concrete examples of how she would take on the role as governor.  She also spoke about her qualifications.  She served as Chief of Staff to the Governor her sophomore year and is currently the Speaker of the Blue House.

Jimmie Williams Jr., a junior at Central High School, gave a seventeen-minute speech at the banquet.  His speech covered everything from domestic violence to the price of higher education and ended with the song “Rocky Top Tennessee.” 

Brett O’Connell, Ravenwood High School, gave a passionate speech about his dedication to the students and his dream of making a difference.

Jimmy Paul, Merrol Hyde Magnet School, gave a short speech outlining his dedication to the conference and willingness to give his all for the delegates.

Press Progress Update

Press is working on the third edition of the paper for today.  Our editor, Alexandra Watkins, has been working hard to meet her goal of printing six papers throughout the weekend!!

The video press is working on a voiceover for a song on tonight's broadcast.  Tune into channel 73 at the Sheraton.