Author: mikeyawn

Mike Yawn teaches at Sam Houston State University. In the past few years, he has taught courses on Politics & Film, Public Policy, the Presidency, Media & Politics, Congress, Statistics, Research & Writing, Field Research, and Public Opinion. He has published academic papers in the Journal of Politics, Political Behavior, Social Security Quarterly, Film & History, American Politics Review, and contributed a chapter to the textbook Politics and Film. He also contributes columns, news analysis, and news stories to newspapers such as the Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express News, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Stamford Advocate, Greenwich Time, Huron Daily Tribune, Laredo Morning Times, Beaumont Enterprise, Connecticut Post, and Midland Reporter Telegram. Yawn is also active in his local community, serving on the board of directors of the local YMCA and Friends of the Wynne. Previously, he served on the Huntsville's Promise and Stan Musial World Series Boards of Directors. In 2007-2008, Yawn was one of eight scholars across the nation named as a Carnegie Civic Engagement Scholar by the Carnegie Foundation.

Big Time in the Big Easy

After four days of fun and learning on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, we said a final goodbye to our favorite lighthouse…

Biloxi Lighthouse, SHSU, LEAP Center, Southern Legislative Conference

…and to the beautiful tree sculptures…

Biloxi Lighthouse, SHSU, LEAP Center, Southern Legislative Conference

…and made our way to New Orleans, on our way home to Texas.

Café Du Monde, by Makayla Mason

As we walked through the interesting streets surrounding the French Quarter, the Leap Ambassadors were excited for the New Orleans culture we were about to experience. We were very tired and quite hungry, so our first stop was a New Orleans favorite: Café Du Monde. Café Du Monde was established in 1862. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and only closes on Christmas Day or in the event of a hurricane.

As soon as we sat down, a waiter came hustling up to us. We ordered 12 beignets and hot coffee. For some of us, it was our first time to ever enjoy the famous Café Du Monde beignets and coffee.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, Cafe Du Monde, New Orleans, NOLA

We all enjoyed our delicious treats, maybe even a little too much, based on how much powdered sugar was on our clothing!

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, Cafe Du Monde, New Orleans, NOLA

With a great sugar rush, we were ready to explore!

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, Cafe Du Monde, New Orleans, NOLA

Exploring New Orleans, by Beatriz Martinez

We strolled along the streets of New Orleans until we reached Jackson Square. Jackson Square is located in the French Quarter and is a historical landmark, the site where Andrew Jackson defended US Territory in the War of 1812.

The cathedral is the third church to be constructed on that site since the year of 1718. Our guide gave us a very thorough tour of the church mentioning facts such as there being b

After taking the photos, we headed inside to tour the St. Louis Cathedral.

NOLA, New Orleans, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Jackson Square

The cathedral is the third church to be constructed on this site since the year of 1718.

NOLA, New Orleans, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, St. Louis Cathedral

Our guide gave us a very thorough tour of the church, mentioning facts such as there being bodies buried underneath the church, only the three B’s (Bishops, Brides, and Bodies) being allowed through the old front door, and the history behind the mural on the ceiling.

NOLA, New Orleans, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, St. Louis Cathedral

After the captivating rounds, we decided to head down further into the streets of New Orleans to see our favorite dog. The estate of George Rodrigue has a studio located in New Orleans where they exhibit his artwork, many of which sell for us much as $300,000.

NOLA, New Orleans, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, George Rodrigue Studios

As always, there was a variety of Blue Dogs depicted in various scenarios.

NOLA, New Orleans, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, St. Louis Cathedral

Everyone chose their favorite before heading back down to the French Quarter Market.

Among the many vendors in the market there was an assortment of interesting objects: colorful clothing, beaded jewelry, artwork, instruments, and a variety of other knick knacks. Some of the LEAPsters decided to begin their art collection.  Makayla was  captivated by the Weeping Angel statuette and bought several pieces. Interestingly enough, we decided to go look for the sculpture at the Metairie Cemetery, where we found her inside the Hyams mausoleum.

Hyams Cemetery, New Orleans, NOLA, LEAP Ambassador, SHSU

Boucherie, by Christina Perez

Before the Leap Ambassadors headed home, we decided to make one quick stop for lunch. We drove to the pretty, gray house with purple steps called Boucherie.  Makayla and Beatriz tried Boudin balls for the first time and seemed to enjoy it. Of course, if you’re ever in Louisiana that is the perfect thing to try. For our entrees, we each decided to try something new. Ryan got the New Orleans style BBQ Shrimp Po’boy.  During the trip, we drove past Krispy Kreme donut shops in Mississippi. Each time Makayla and Stephanie would look over and explain that when the light was lit up it meant that costumers got a free, hot donut. It was a trip full of activities so we didn’t have a chance to stop but we made up for it at the Boucherie. They had a Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding. Not only did our donut lovers get a treat, but our bread pudding specialists did as well.

Sculpture Garden, by Beatriz Martinez

Our last stop of the day was at the Besthoff Sculpture Garden. There we got to see pieces of our favorite art masters such as the LOVE by Robert Indiana…

NOLA, New Orleans, Besthoff Sculpture Garden, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Love, Robert Indiana

…Blue Dog by George Rodrigue…

NOLA, New Orleans, Besthoff Sculpture Garden, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Blue Dog, George Rodrigue

….Spider by Louise Bourgeois…

NOLA, New Orleans, Besthoff Sculpture Garden, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Spider, Louise Bourgeois

Among the other artwork, there were other very interesting creations. One of which was the Monkeys by Rona Pondick.

NOLA, New Orleans, Besthoff Sculpture Garden, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Rona Pendick

With their contorted figures and grotesque faces, they made an impression on those who happened to study them as thoroughly as we did. With a last glance at the artwork, we said au revoir to New Orleans and decided to head on home, although we could not resist making a last quick pit stop at Rosetree glass blowing studio.

NOLA.. New Orleans, LEAP Center, SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, Rosetree Glass Studio

As far as six-day trips go, it was a quick one, with a load of memories, a lot of bonding, and a whole lot of learning.

Southern Legislative Conference, Gulfport MS, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU

 

Working up a Storm in the midst of a Hurricane

Although SHSU has been closed for the weekend, and classes are cancelled for (at least) tomorrow, LEAP Ambassadors found ways to be productive.

Saturday night involved extensive scrapbooking, a task that we undertake 2-3 times a year to catalog our 140 or so  events per year.  There was a festive aspect to this, inasmuch as several LEAP ambassadors had birthdays this month.  Because many of our members are Hispanic, we had tortas, tres leches, and horchata, along with feaux-Mexican decorations.

LEAP Ambassadors, Fiesta

But we also got work done, cataloging events from January through July, events consisting of a presidential inauguration, a visit from the Texas Supreme Court, travel throughout the Gulf Coast Region, book-signings, and various volunteer events.

SHSU, LEAP Ambassadors, Scrapbooking

That productivity was repeated on Sunday morning, even as Huntsville, TX was flooding.Hurricane Harvey, Flooding, Huntsville TX, LEAP Center

We hunkered down at Stephanie’s house, with our “team mom” offering a menu of egg-related options.

And, again, we undertook a three-hour planning session for the fall semester’s events.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Fall Retreat

Our fall schedule includes a trip to Austin, a trip to Washington, DC, and a trip to Caddo Lake.  It also includes volunteerism for non-profits and city offices.  And, of course, it includes our normal retinue of film showings, guest speakers, multi-week programming, Moot Court, and other educational opportunities!

A Stately Day in the Magnolia State

Lazy Magnolia Brewery, by Christina Perez

During the final day of the Southern Legislative Conference, our last tour was to the Lazy Magnolia Brewery, located in Kiln, Mississippi. The tour started with a delicious lunch and Christina (the only 21-year-old ambassador) got a chance to sample the hard ice tea. Before the tour guide began to lead us, we had a few minutes to play some pool.

Southern Legislative Conference, Kiln MS, Lazy Magnolia Brewery, SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors

Once again, Makayla and Ryan, the masters of all games, demonstrated their astounding prowess.

Everyone finished eating their food, meanwhile, the owner of the brewery, Mark Henderson, began by telling his story. Lazy Magnolia was an idea he had after getting a beer-making kit for Christmas one year.

Southern Legislative Conference, Kiln MS, Lazy Magnolia Brewery, SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors

His wife, Leslie, helped make his dreams a reality, and that led to him providing us with a tour today!

There was a large room which contained the fermenting tanks.

Southern Legislative Conference, Kiln MS, Lazy Magnolia Brewery, SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors

A few of the workers were preparing to run the line, then box, and ship the beer. Mark Henderson explained all the moving parts which allowed us to understand the process of beer making without the kit. Another of the more interesting artifacts in the brewery, was the recreation of Amelia Earhart’s plane that hung from the roof.

Southern Legislative Conference, Kiln MS, Lazy Magnolia Brewery, SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors

The tour ended with Al Saucier telling us stories about his book, The Broke Spoke Moonshine Book. Inside the book are many facts about moonshine. For example, the story of the first moonshine high-speed race car. He shared many of his stories that inspired him to become an author. We headed to the bus and it felt bittersweet knowing this was our last tour for the SLC, but the state dinner was next and we couldn’t wait to represent the best state in the United States.

“Meet Me at The Crossroads” State Dinner, by Makayla Mason

The final night of the Southern Legislative Conference began with a cocktail hour.

Southern Legislative Conference, State Dinner, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassador, SHSU

We mingled with different legislators and had the opportunity to take a picture with Speaker Gunn of the Mississippi House of Representatives.

Southern Legislative Conference, State Dinner, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassador, SHSU, Speaker Phillip Gunn

He informed us that he was originally a Texas man and had graduated from Baylor University in Waco.

While we mingled, we were informed that we would have the honor of representing Texas during the Parade of Flags. A few minutes before the dinner began, we met with the other representatives of the states and lined up in the order in which we joined the Union. This meant we were in the 13th position out of the 15 states that were represented.   As we marched in to “Deep in The Heart of Texas” with our flag flying high, we couldn’t help but feel our Texas pride shine through us.

We made our way to the tables. Makayla and Beatriz sat with Oklahoma Representatives, while Christina and Ryan were seated with Mississippi Representatives. After a short introduction, presentations, and invocation, Speaker Gunn invited us to enjoy our dinner. We enjoyed a fresh salad with tangy and sweet Heirloom Tomatoes and Mississippi Watermelon. For our main course, we had Filet Mignon, Spicy Garlic Gulf Shrimp, Mississippi Grits, and Vegetables. Throughout the dinner, we were entertained by Pianist Bruce Levingston…

Southern Legislative Conference, State Dinner, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassador, SHSU, Pianist Bruce Levingston

…who was praised by the New York Times for his “mastery of color and nuance.”  We were honored, because he actually gave a shout out to us for being from Texas before he played his songs.

Also on hand was American Idol runner-up La’Porsha Renae…

La'Porsha Renae, SHSU, LEAP Center, Southern Legislative Conference

…who certainly knew how to fill out a camera frame, and to belt out a tune.

An interesting dinner conversation quickly led our way to dessert where we enjoyed Mississippi Mud Pave.

While we walked away from the night, we realized how special and bitter- sweet the conclusion of the conference was. As the majority of the LEAP Ambassadors are graduating in the coming academic year and Ryan leaves for the University of Arkansas, the relation of finality hit a little too hard.  The blow was softened, however, by a nice discussion with Levingston…

Southern Legislative Conference, State Dinner, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassador, SHSU, Bruce Levingston

…and a nice goodbye to some newly-made friends.

Before the night ended, the LEAP Ambassadors threw a surprise party for Stephanie, who always goes above and beyond for every single one of us. We decided to get her a Mississippi themed cake to represent the great time we had at Biloxi, Mississippi as well as provide her with a memory she would never forget.

Everyone had a great time at the Southern Legislative Conference and it was sad that we had to go back to Texas the next day.

Fun From Mississippi to Missouri

Gulf Coast Parasailing, by Makayla Mason

As LEAP Ambassadors, we contribute to the travel costs of our own trips.  This contribution is an investment in our own education, and while part of our money goes for trip t-shirts, conference registration and museums, our money also goes to fun activities that we engaged in on trips.  And that applied today, when we had a chance to go parasailing!

Parasailing, Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU
Makayla, Christina, and Beatriz Prepare for their Turns!

Only one member of our group had ever experienced parasailing and the rest of us were excited to embark on this new adventure. While making our way to deep waters (in every sense of the phrase), one of our tour guides helped the first pair into their harnesses. First up were Christina and Makayla, followed by Ryan and Beatriz, and ending with Mike and Stephanie. With the sun shining down on us, we were anxious for the adrenaline rush the thrill of parasailing elicited. The release from the boat was very smooth…

Parasailing, Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU

…and as we climbed higher into the Biloxi sky we began to understand why people love to parasail. It was a very peaceful 10 minutes, with a breeze and even sightings of dolphins!

Parasailing, Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU

While a pair was up in the sky, the other four took advantage and enjoyed the boat ride filled with music and the occasional splash of salty water.  Probably the happiest of the para-sailors were Beatriz and Ryan, both of whom were productive while air-sailing.

Parasailing, Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU

Ryan filmed the entire 10-minute ride…

Parasailing, Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU

…while Beatriz waved her arms and kicked her feet in excitement!

Parasailing, Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU

The view from the sky was amazing, with the boat looking tiny.

Parasailing, Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU

It’s amazing to have these opportunities as undergraduates, and we had a great time in our rarefied adventure!

Hibachi Dinner, by Makayla Mason

For dinner, we decided on going to Kyoto Japanese Cuisine. Beatriz had never experienced a Hibachi style dinner so we happily made our way to the flat top grill. We made our decisions quickly with Beatriz and Makayla sharing the Hibachi Chicken and Shrimp, Ryan and Christina shared the Rock’N Roll Sushi and noodles, and Stephanie and Mike split the Hibachi Chicken and Lobster. We told our Chef, who was a very humorous man, that Beatriz had never experienced a Hibachi Grill, so he invited her up to cook for us. Beatriz did not last long as our Chef. We experienced an onion train with fire, steam, and sound effects, and then we watched our dinner being skillfully cooked. Beatrix also tried lobster for the first time, she enjoyed it! We left Kyoto with full stomachs ready to dance it all off at the conference’s “Missouri Night” gathering.

Missouri Kick-Off Party, by Christina Perez

After dinner, we headed to the 2018 Missouri Kick-off reception. Each year, the state who is hosting the following year (in this case,  2018’s Conference) gives a preview of the conference by hosting a night full of their state favorites.  Although the states work together, there is no doubt they are a bit competitive, and the states try to provide as much fun as possible to “show off” their state.

When we arrived, we were greeted with goody bags which contained goodies from Missouri companies, and an entry way that was clearly Missouri made!

Southern Legislative Conference, STL MO, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU

We took a group photo and headed for the dance floor. Although some of us were too shy to show off our groovy moves (Ryan), others did not waste a minute. We danced to hit songs from famous artists such as Michael Jackson, Gloria Gaynor, The Isley Brothers, and many more–alongside legislators from 15 states, including at least one Speaker of the House! Makayla expressed her enthusiasm of how she had enjoyed dancing to one of her favorite songs, Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson.  Interestingly, for the first time ever, the LEAP Center Ambassadors are on tape “dancing”….

But this was not the last time!  As a special treat, we also danced in a conga line while holding onto the mascot for the St. Louis Blues.

According to Missouri’s Speaker of the House (Todd Richardson), the purpose of the event was to allow everyone a great time, and we think the “show-me” state did its job well!

See you next year St. Louis!

A Day at the Museums–in Biloxi

Beatriz- Day at the Museums

With a light wind blowing playing with our hair…

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU

…today was perfect for going out on a Day at the Museums.  And our first stop was the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum, which was first planned in the early 2000s.  owever, when the actual construction started Hurricane Katrina hit Biloxi, washing away most of the construction. Undaunted, the city began construction again, employing the renowned Frank Gehry as architect.

The buildings have Gehry’s trademark curves and steel, making for an aesthetically stunning Museum (albeit difficult to photograph).

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry

There were  two guest artists being showcased at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum: Ruth Miller and Greg Moran.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry

First, we saw the pieces of Mr. Moran.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Greg Moran

He mainly deals with different types of metals, wood, and stone to create sculptures and he also designs paintings.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Greg Moran

Mrs. Miller also has an interesting method of creating her own type of art.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Ruth Miller

She uses stitches to bring to life tapestries.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Ruth Miller

She accomplishes these masterpieces by first taking a picture, then tracing it onto a series of lined paper, and finally towards becoming a stitched artwork.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Ruth Miller

We had never seen her work, and we were blown away by her skill and technique.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Ruth Miller

…and we enjoyed going through the entire exhibit.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Ruth Miller

Next, we saw the George Ohr exhibit. There are three defining features of an Ohr piece: 1) having many twists and turns 2) thin walls 3) and lastly naturalistic images.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Ohr Pottery

Ohr had many qualities and charms. He became and eccentric man in order to become more successful. He would stand on his hands in front of his gallery to draw the crowd in, gel his mustache to look like it was being blown in the wind, and he verbalized various quotes that added to his art, such as “This Pot is here, and I am the Potter who was”.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Christina Perez, Kentucky Senator Dorsey Ridley
Christina Discusses Ohr Pottery with Kentucky Senator Dorsey Ridley

After these exhibits we took a short break for lunch and then headed to a ceramic workshop.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Ceramics

After a brief tutorial, we each designed–with varying levels of skill–tiles…

As part of our conference participation, the tiles will be glazed and mailed to us.  It was fun to learn and, pending the outcome of the tiles, we might even have something to keep!

At the next stop, we visited the Maritime and Seafood Museum. Biloxi was once known as the Seafood Capitol of the world, but after Hurricane Camille hit, they lost that title–although they still have a thriving seafood industry. Throughout the entire museum, we learned about the history of the seafood industry in Biloxi.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Maritime and Seafood Museum

This included poignant stories of specific sea vessels to technological innovations, such as this shrimp-peeling device.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Maritime and Seafood Museum

We even found a boat called “Little Bee,” our nickname for Beatriz.

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Maritime and Seafood Museum

One of the most interesting stories was about the lens from the Ship-Island lighthouse.  During the Civil War, Ship-Island was the site of a brief battle, and although the confederates declared victory, they retreated from the island, taking the lens with them.  Although it was returned and used again, the lighthouse became obsolete during the 20th century, and the Museum gained control of the Fresnel Lens.  During Hurricane Katrine, however, the lens was washed away, breaking into many pieces.  Originally crafted in France in 1820, the lens was believed lost forever.

Amazingly, however, the pieces of the lens were found and restored!

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Maritime and Seafood Museum

The curator described that restoration as a metaphor for the Gulf Coast, a hardy and durable area that, through teamwork, has managed to come back together after Katrina.

It was an educational day, full of networking and learning.  Little did we know what the evening had in store!

Southern Legislative Conference, Biloxi MS, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, SHSU, Ohr-O'Keefe, Frank Gehry, Ruth Miller

 

An Evening with Author Wendy Walker

With school still more than a week away, the LEAP Ambassadors still have time for some fun learning before the semester gets underway.  So, six LEAP Ambassadors and friends traveled to Houston to visit Murder by the Book and enjoy a presentation by author (and family-law attorney) Wendy Walker.Wendy Walker, Emma in the Night, SHSU, LEAP Center

Ms. Walker has written several books, but her reputation as a writer was largely established with the publication of “All is Not Forgotten.” The book, addressing “memory science” and the affect that it can have on personality and the legal system, was a hit, and it prompted Walker to adopt a similar theme for her latest, “Emma in the Night.”  By “similar theme,” we don’t mean to suggest that she wrote “All is not Forgotten” part 2; rather, she is continuing her exploration of how cognitive or personality disorders can play out in families and in the legal system.

In “Emma,” Walker explores Narcissistic Personality Disorder.  As Walker notes, her books are a mix of psychology, family relationships, crime, and the legal system, and that is a good description of “Emma in the Night.”  It’s an engaging book.  In fact, it is so engaging, it has even prompted to Christina to read it!

Walker did a fine job of describing the book and her career at Murder By the Book.

Wendy Walker, Emma in the Night, SHSU, LEAP Center

She discussed her various careers, her slowish path to becoming an attorney, and—most interestingly—her foray into writing.  Her first books didn’t sell well (“friends and family”), and her agent told her to adopt a new approach to her plots.  Taking a step back, inspired by a NY Times article on memory science, and working more closely with her agent, she produced “All is not Forgotten.”  With that hit—and the film rights picked up by Reese Witherspoon—Walker got the sales and publicity needed to become a full-time writer.

Wendy Walker, Emma in the Night, SHSU, LEAP Center

Walker was more engaging than most authors, and she was particularly gracious in reaching out to us during her presentation, asking us what we were studying, what interested us, and thanking us for coming.

Wendy Walker, Emma in the Night, SHSU, LEAP Center

We had time for a nice group photo…

Wendy Walker, Emma in the Night, SHSU, LEAP Center

–she even indulged us in a selfie–

Wendy Walker, Emma in the Night, SHSU, LEAP Center

…and she spent time discussing her travels and career after her presentation.

We thought about inviting her to dinner with us, but she had previously mentioned her crazy book-tour schedule, and we didn’t want to impinge upon her sleep availability further.  So we headed off to Azuma on our own, to continue to expand our cultural horizons with six types of sushi!

It was also a chance for us to catch up—four of us work full-time, two of us work part-time—and to begin some preliminary plans for our trip to Big Bend National Park next week as well as the beginning of the fall semester.

The night was a nice break from the summer job grind, and many thanks to Wendy Walker for an educational and entertaining evening!

 

 

More Gulf Coast Fun, Night 2, Biloxi

Biking in Biloxi, by Beatriz Martinez

In order to work off the food, the Leap Ambassadors parted ways to see the seashore while exercising. Professor Yawn and Ryan went on a gator excursion, where they fed gators and got to “pet” them. The girls, however, went a much simpler route by doing a variety of safer alternatives.

The first of which was, of course, shopping.  Being at Beau Rivage, we decided to, briefly, get a glimpse at the casino. Being that not all of us were of age, we moved on to the shops and away from the casinos.

Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Beau Rivage

Along the way we happened to chance upon a face painter and of course Christina and Beatriz got their face painted.

Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Beau Rivage

Later, after touring the rest of Beau Rivage, we headed back to the hotel to get ready for our next excursion.

Part of the city of Biloxi’s recreational/ tourism efforts were incorporated in a bicycling program that you could use in order to cycle across most of the city of Biloxi. The three of us: Makayla, Christina, and I, took advantage of this opportunity and used it to ride 4 miles along the beach.

Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Beau Rivage

Part of Biloxi’s charm are the sea-themed sculptures along the shore.  Made from trees damaged in Hurricane Katrina, the community brought in artists to turn the dead trees into beautiful art.

Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Tree Sculptures

It’s a classic case of making lemonade from lemons, and we enjoyed the sculptures (Galveston adopted this program after Ike).

Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU,, tree sculptures

After more than 1 hour on the road, we headed back to the hotel to prepare for another night of fun.

Family Night, by Makayla Mason

With a beautiful sunset and perfect weather luring us into the Southern Legislative Conference’s Family Night, there was excitement in the air. To start the night with a hit, Jackson State University made a grand entrance.

Biloxi MS, Southern Legislative Conference, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU,, Jackson State University Sonic Boom Band

The crowd was cheered with approval as we all enjoyed their enthusiastic dances and electric music.

Southern Legislative Conference, Jackson State University Sonic Boom Band, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Ocean Springs MS

Their whole program was exciting and wonderful.

And the music and moves were great!

Speaking of moves, a certain couple–Christine and Aaron from the Lift School of Acrobatics–had some very flexible ones.

Southern Legislative Conference, Ocean Springs MS, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Arron and Christine, Lift School of Acrobatics

Their balance, elegance, and strength were amazing!

For the rest of the night, we enjoyed a picnic-on-the-beach style dinner with many items to choose from such as hamburgers, corndogs, nachos, cotton candy, and s’mores!

Southern Legislative Conference, Ocean Springs MS, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU

While enjoying our tasty dinner, we enjoyed live music by Steve Azar.

Southern Legislative Conference, Ocean Springs MS, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Steve Azar

Steve Azar, a Mississippi man, fully hit the country scene in 2002. His song “I Don’t Have To Be Me til’ Monday” was the first single to reach #2 on the national country radio charts.

Southern Legislative Conference, Ocean Springs MS, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Steve Azar

We were lucky enough to sing along with him as he played that very same song that is still popular on the radio today.

Southern Legislative Conference, Ocean Springs MS, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, Steve Azar

As the night grew late, we played a few beach side games. We even played a tournament of bean-bag toss.

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Playing Horseshoes in the dark was interesting. Half the fun was trying to find where the horseshoes had buried themselves after we had thrown them. Makayla was the only one to get a ringer but Ryan had a few close throws.

We were sad to leave the Fun Zone, but it was off to get sleep for the next day’s adventures.