Food – Page 7 – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

The Largest Country on Earth: Learning more about India

Macey Schank and Michelle Cardenas

In a world increasingly interconnected and dependent on international cooperation, understanding the intricacies of foreign relations and diplomacy has never been more crucial. To further explore the topic, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston (WAC) featured former United States Ambassador to India Kenneth I. Juster at ChampionX’s headquarters.

During his introduction, Jahan Jafarpour highlighted Ambassador Kenneth’s extraordinary career as Ambassador of the United States to the Republic of India.

He also mentioned Ambassador Juster’s extensive education and former occupation as a lawyer. Following Mr. Jafarpour’s remarks, Ronan O’Malley, the moderator for the evening, and Ambassador Juster took the stage.

To start the evening, Ambassador Juster began with an introduction of the U.S. and India’s complex foreign relationship over the years. He explained that India is a nonaligned country, meaning it works with many countries, including the U.S., but is not allied with any particular country. One explanation for this non-alliance is due to India’s geographic position, which offers India unique opportunities and challenges.

India’s emergence as a nonallied global power has made it the bridge between the West and the global South. The recent formation of the BRICS nations, Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa further emphasizes this point. Ambassador Juster mentioned some of the concerns that came with the formation of BRICS. He believes this group can serve as a warning to the U.S. to strengthen foreign relations as the world begins to seek a shift in power moving away from a more Western-dominated world.

Ambassador Juster focused on the importance of India’s growing economy and what this means for the future of the country. Under Prime Minister Modi and his more direct economic approach, India is currently one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Countries like the U.S. and China are eager to work with India, despite their complex history, and in China’s case, a fostering sense of mistrust. Ambassador Juster expressed that the U.S.-India foreign relations is currently “one of the most consequential relations.”

Ending the night with the Q&A portion of the evening…

… we were able to learn more about Ambassador Juster’s role and what being Ambassador to India entails. Ambassador Juster describes the role as similar to that of a mayor who is responsible for all Americans and U.S. affairs inside the country, ranging from American schoolchildren, visas, intelligence, to the occasional arrested tourist. The role of ambassador is a multifaceted position that requires diplomatic finesse, cultural acumen, and a steadfast commitment to representing one’s country on the global stage.

The final question of the night was asked by Professor Yawn, who wanted to know who Ambassador Juster believes to be the most effective politician he has worked with, in which he notes former President George H. W. Bush and Jim Baker. In fact, he refers to this administration as the “Golden Age of Foreign Relations” due to its many triumphs.

Namaste

To follow the evening’s theme, corresponding with Ambassador Juster’s ties to the Republic of India, we decided to indulge in some Indian cuisine for dinner.

Olivia found an incredible restaurant named Namaste that proved to be absolutely delicious! Our server, Kledisa, ensured we made the most of our meal and recommended an array of a delicious dishes for us to try.

We started with some ginger garlic chicken and samosas for our appetizers. The table was laden with a variety of entrees, such as chicken butter masala, korma, madras goat pepper curry, chettinad with paneer, and roast chicken biryani, paired with naan bread and rice.

Namaste introduced us to a new and delightful experience with exceptional dishes and impeccable service. It truly was the perfect conclusion to yet another successful WAC event!

Texas Food Stop: Lone Star Bakery

A couple of years ago, I was making my way through Stephen Harrigan‘s terrific “Big Wonderful Thing…,” a history of Texas. Even it almost 1,000 pages, the book, by necessity, omits interesting events and facts about Texas. But on page 387, Harrigan manages to include this line, “Round Rock–currently a booming suburb of Austin whose amenities include the Lone Star Bakery, the home of the world’s great doughnuts…”

It is only one clause in a long book, but it caught my attention. How good must these doughnuts from Lone Star Bakery (aka Round Rock Donuts) be to be referred to as the “world’s greatest”?

How good must these doughnuts be for inclusion in a history of Texas, alongside the Alamo, Sam Houston, Lyndon Johnson, and Willie Nelson?

Pretty darn good, we learned. One of the Ambassadors had already tried the establishment. She interned in Austin in the spring, and lobbyists, it seems, ever eager to curry favor with legislators, use Round Rock Donuts as their go-to.

With good reason. Their items are baked fresh throughout the day, and they have extended hours for your day-long enjoyment. The eclairs melt in your mouth; the maple honey is almost worth diabetes. Their kolaches are made with real sausage. And their Texas Donut is bigger than you can eat.

We discovered this as a group yesterday (Sunday, September 25, 2023) as our take-home trip. After sampling the kolaches, apple fritters, eclairs, and honey-maple, all we can say is, “We understand Mr. Harrigan, we understand.”

Important Conversations at The Texas Tribune Festival

Morgan Robertson

Higher education, religion in government, water infrastructure, and domestic policy. What do all these topics have in common? They were all topics deliberated on during LEAP’s first day at The Texas Tribune Festival! With many absorbing and diverse topics covering legal happenings on varying scales, we were eager to expand our knowledge over the course of two days.

We saw a great deal of interesting and influential speakers, including three Chancellors from major Texas University Systems, who discussed the importance of establishing and maintaining their universities as Research Powerhouses…

Chancellor Mitchell encapsulated what it means to work for a university system with this impactful quote: “We are not in the higher (education) business, we are in the business of developing young people.”

And Morgan was able to ask a question!

Before leaving, we were able to get a photo with Chancellors Sharp and Khator.

Olivia and I especially enjoyed the panel regarding water infrastructure with Representative Tracy King and CEO of the Texas Water Foundation Sarah Schlessinger…

…as we are the most interested in local government. In fact, Olivia even asked a question…

….and we were all able to get a photo with Rep. King.

We also had a chance to learn from Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker and Police Chief Neal Nokes, both of whom were excellent. They discussed “Crime in Cowtown”….

…specifically discussing some of the challenges associated with high-density areas. Although not explicitly asked by the moderator, many of the questions related to how high-profile leaders address the media and, specifically, themes or issues that they cover.

Although there are no magic bullets, both the Mayor and Chief stressed the importance of getting information out quickly and accurately whenever possible.

Our final panel was comprised of three directors of the Domestic Policy Council, who explained their roles and the importance of their staff in the White House.

Ariza and Ashlyn enjoyed speaking with Melody Barnes after the panel and even got a photo!

Upon completing our panels, we took a side trip to the Capitol, where Ashlyn and Morgan had interned this spring–and where Olivia might intern in a future spring!

It was Ariza’s first time in the capitol, and it was a great learning experience and a good activity cap to a day of fun and learning.

But our day of experiences and learning was not over! We concluded our evening with an amazing dinner at Taste of Ethiopia, which was a new food experience for Olivia and Ariza.

Over the delicious meal, we discussed some of what we learned from the day’s sessions and what we are looking forward to learning the next day!

Dr. Jianli Yang: Chinese Dissident and Tiananmen Square Survivor

Morgan Robertson

This past summer marked the 34th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Massacre in the Peoples Republic of China, and when we noted that the World Affairs Council was bringing in Dr. Jianli Yang, a Tiananmen Square survivor, we wanted to be sure to be there.

As a refresh for our readers, from April to June in 1989, Chinese students held demonstrations in the well-known Tiananmen Square, Beijing. The students were protesting their limited political freedom, the educational system and much more under the CCP (Chinese Communist Party). In June of 1989, Martial Law was declared and troops were moved into the Square. The massacre began on the night of June 3 and resulted in the loss of thousands.

The LEAP Center strives to allow students to make connections across various disciplines and have opportunities to learn via firsthand accounts. This past Wednesday, LEAP Ambassadors, Olivia, Michelle and myself were accompanied by three new students, Macey Schank, Madison Cawthon, and Abraham Roby, and made our way to hear Dr. Jianli Yang. The noted Chinese dissident has dedicated his life to peacefully securing democratization in China and supporting human rights.

Once again, ChampionX graciously hosted this WAC event. ChampionX is proving to be one of our favorite venues, not just for the amazing views, but for the dedication and quality of the staff.

We were fortunate enough to meet John Breed, Manager of External Affairs for ChampionX, as well as President and CEO, Sivasankaran “Soma” Somasundaram, who spoke with us and who gave a few opening remarks about their partnership with WAC and the company.

Ronan O’Malley, Chief Programs Officer of WAC, began the dialogue with a brief outline of what shaped Dr. Yang’s humanitarian efforts. Dr. Yang opened by describing how his involvement and interest in human rights began. Dr. Yang was an official party member before 1986, believing he would have a positive impact on the CCP. However, his membership was defined by keeping tabs on other students and friends; Dr. Yang quickly realized that individuals do not change the party; the party changes individuals. At the time, such thing as revoking party membership did not exist and the only way to quit the party was to dissent.

In May 1989, Dr. Yang was studying mathematics at the University of Berkley, while watching the progression of student led protests in Beijing on CBS—covered by SUSU Alum, Dan Rather. Dr. Yang and other similarly motivated students watched on international news as CCP police began beating students in Tiananmen Square. Appalled by what he had seen, Dr. Yang made the decision to return to China to help in whatever way possible; he arrived one day before martial law was declared on the square.

Dr. Yang joined the demonstrations in the square, and like most students, returned occasionally to campus housing to shower and rest. On June 3, Dr. Yang returned to the Square, just as the soldiers opened fire on the crowds.

Dr. Yang described the atrocities he witnessed over those fateful days and how many of his friends were gunned down, beaten, or flattened by tanks. Many people are familiar with the famous “Tank-Man” photo, in which a lone demonstrator blocks the path of the encroaching tank; but for Dr. Yang, this was his reality.

During the reprieves of gunfire, demonstrators attempted to persuade and appeal to the soldier’s hearts by singing widely known nursery rhymes; the efforts ultimately were to no avail.

Many students made their way back to campus to await in terror of what was to come. Dr. Yang was directed by his advisor to flee, and he did. On June 7, 1989, Dr. Yang managed to secure a seat on a flight and several hours later landed in the United States. News had travelled fast, and reporters were waiting for the newly arrived Chinese passengers for any information as to what happened. From that point forward, Dr. Yang shared his story and hasn’t stopped.

The Human Rights Committee in the United States Congress invited Dr. Yang to testify, greatly contributing to the United States’ response. During the labor movement in China began in 2002, Dr. Yang seized the opportunity to return to China and offer his assistance. With a fake ID and a borrowed passport, Dr. Yang reentered China and immediately began helping groups strategize to protect their basic rights.

It was through these efforts that Dr. Yang was caught by country police and detained in for 5 years, with most of that time being spent in solitary confinement.

If the LEAP Students’ mood reflected the audience’s mood, the room was full of disbelief and sadness after hearing Dr. Yang’s experiences. Dr. Yang kept his hope, and encouraged us to do so as well. The work he has done for human rights is immeasurable.

Despite this somber closing note, our moods turned happy as we had the chance to meet Dr. Yang. He reminded us to be hopeful, and he offered us encouraging thoughts.

Thank you once again to the amazing WAC staff for organizing a great event, to ChampionX for hosting, and to Dr. Yang for inspiring others with his story.

_______________________________________________

Shanghai Bistro–Closing Note

As with all–or almost all–LEAP events, we sought a restaurant that would complement the theme of the evening’s program. We selected Shanghai Bistro, which proved to be excellent.

The staff were very friendly and accommodating. This was nice, because not all restaurants in The Woodlands are flexible.

This also gave us the chance to talk to the first-time attendees at a WAC event and to reflect on the evening and what we had learned. Such reflected fostered thankfulness, for friendships, for unique learning experiences, and for the sacrifices made by leaders such as Dr. Yang.

Agent Christopher Combs Talks the Future of the FBI

Michelle Cardenas

After a successful first week of classes, LEAP students headed to The Woodlands for their first World Affairs Council (WAC) meeting of the fall semester. Dr. Gene Roberts, Associate Dean and the Director of Student Legal & Mediation Services at SHSU, graciously joined our coalition of students in this endeavor. The featured guest speaker of the evening, FBI Special Agent Christopher Combs, possesses great insight into the last 20 years of United States affairs. Having served as a Special Agent In Charge of the San Antonio Division, Combs has a particular knowledge of matters concerning border control and domestic terrorism.

The event was hosted by one of WAC’s partners, ChampionX; a chemistry program and drilling technology company. The sunset-casted lakeside view from the building set an elevated tone for the evening.

Before the event began, Chief Development Officer of the World Affairs Council Sandija Bayot graciously introduced us to Special Agent Combs. He went on to share the very qualities that make a prospective FBI applicant stand out, placing a particular emphasis on a strong work ethic and unique experiences they have prior to their application. For example, Combs himself served as a volunteer firefighter for 8 years! The opportunity to speak candidly with a distinguished member of the FBI was incredible, especially for the many Criminal Justice majors in the group.

Shortly thereafter, Ronan O’Malley took the stage and introduced the event moderator, Sandija Bayot and the Director of External Affairs for Champion X, John Breed.

Christopher Combs took the stage with moderator Sandija Bayot and quickly jumped into the conversation. The focal point of Agent Combs’ conversation was to explain the FBI’s role in multiple historically disastrous events. He touched on how extensive FBI investigations are and how much hard work, planning and action takes place on the inside.

After being a part of the FBI for 26 years, Agent Combs has gathered quite a collection of stories; one of them being his experience during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Indeed, he served as the initial FBI On-Scene Commander at the Pentagon on 9/11. He explained how the Bureau received intel about foreign attacks and expected to be attacked in late September. However, the FBI expected an attack overseas, not here in the United States.

Agent Combs expressed great concern for America as technology continues to advance and the threats of competing superpowers and their tactics. The conversation shifted into an audience Q&A, and many topics such as border control, domestic terrorism, and drones ensued. He made a couple remarks on how the battle against terrorism, whether it be domestic or not, is never ending.

Though the conversation was heavy in nature, it ended on a positive note-thanks to Professor Yawn! Professor Yawn asked Agent Combs to speak to the young people in the audience about careers in the FBI. Agent Combs stated he believes in setting oneself apart from the crowd and truly devoting oneself to the greater good. Special Agent Combs closed with a remark that left the crowd at ease and patriotism: “The FBI is simply an organization made up of good Americans who are trying their best to protect Americans”.

BearKats Dine at Katz’s

Following our event we ventured to Katz’s, a New York style deli, to highlight the area in which Agent Combs was brought up. We started our evening with multiple appetizers that included the cheese crisps, spicy meatballs and the stuffed cabbage. We all dug into our savory appetizers as we waited for our entrees. There was a large group in attendance so we had quite the line up. Some of our favorite entrees included the Chicago bill, matzo ball soup, The Reuben, and The Monte Cristo. To end our night with a figurative cherry on top, we decided to indulge in some sweet treats. The delicious desserts we had included caramel raisin bread pudding, Oreo milkshakes and cheesecake milkshakes. The night concluded with new connections, great laughs, and an even greater anticipation of what’s to come in the fall.

Sleuthing from the Cheap Seats: The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

It was a sunny and bright day, but murder was in the air. We were at the Alley Theatre, and its cast was performing Agatha Christie’s “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.”

It was a nice mix of people, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP alumni, and “friends of LEAP” together for an enjoyable afternoon. With lunch at Post Houston, a new favorite recommended by LEAP alum Will Phillips, we caught up, talked about classes, and explored food from multiple continents.

But we had come to Houston for the play, and it was something of a process to actually see the play. Many of us had read the book, with at least half of us stopping before the end so as to not spoil the “whodunit” aspect of the performance. In July, we attended a Murder by the Book presentation by Mark Shanahan, the play’s director, a presentation that left us even more excited.

Unfortunately, when we drove to our scheduled performance, the Alley had to cancel the showing because a cast member wasn’t available!

So, with more than a month of anticipation and at least one false start, we were more than usually ready for the play to begin.

And it did not disappoint. It was expertly adapted to the stage by Shanahan, with clever techniques of compressing time and space.

It was humorous, with a wonderful cast that included two SHSU alums (Dylan Godwin and Melissa Pritchett)!

During intermission, we speculated as to who the culprit might be. Victoria couldn’t identify a key suspect; Nick, with all the creativity he could muster, thought “the butler did it;” and Katherine thought that the house staff conspired together to kill their employer, Roger Ackroyd. (If I were Katherine’s employer, I’d lock the doors at night.) Morgan, whose literary tastes lean toward bodice-ripping romance, had trouble keeping up with the characters and the narrative. She nodded a lot as we discussed things.

The second act was delightful, with more humor and variation in pacing. The plot, as they say, thickened, ending with all the cast gathered together to identify the murderer. We will, of course, stop there, and engage in no spoilers. But it surprised all of us–with the exception of Olivia, who, when it was over said, “I knew it all along” to an incredulous group and an ever-nodding Morgan.

Kudos to the cast of the Alley, the timeless appeal of Hercule Poirot, and the camaraderie of LEAP students, present and past.

Wrapping up a “Wicked” Eight-Day Tour

Taste of Greece

By Jessica Cuevas

This was a special day of sorts. We were headed to see the play, “Wicked,” which was named after our President-Elect, Morgan Robertson. Moreover, it was her birthday–21st, no less. So, we let her choose the place to eat!

She chose “A Taste of Greece,” because Mediterranean is her favorite type of food, and because it is within walking distance of the Fox Theatre, where her biopic was being performed.

The restaurant offered many umami plates, but the ones that caught our eyes and proved to be delicious mouthfuls were the Greek Melt, the From Greece with Love Platter consisting of gyro meat, pork and chicken skewers, and Greek Meatballs served with green beans, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce.

We wished we could’ve stayed to enjoy our meals a little longer, but with every passing minute, a wicked play awaited us.

Wicked

By Morgan Robertson

“It’s time to Trust (our) instincts, close (our) eyes and LEAP!”

–From “Defying Gravity,” in “Wicked.”

Our trip has been full of many athletic, educational, historical, political, and after tonight, entertaining events! The last night of our trip, we checked the entertainment box, and made our way to the historic Fox Theatre to watch their rendition of “Wicked,” the musical.

We were amazed by the grandeur of the Theatre…

…and hastily made our way to our seats.

Despite what the professional advisement of LEAP thinks, not all LEAP Ambassadors are wicked. However, we all have varying degrees of interest in the “Wizard of Oz.” But, of the LEAP Ambassadors, I am perhaps the most unfamiliar with musicals. Due to my familial ties to Kansas, I was raised near the setting of the movie. So, I made an exception and was excited to learn more about the Wicked Witch of the West. I even wore green for the evening!

“Wicked” begins with a frame narrative starting with Glinda, the Good Witch of the North as she brings the good news to the Munchkins that the Wicked Witch is dead. The lively songs harken memories of the original story, and a shrill voice says, “I’m melting, I’m melting!” The delighted munchkins rejoice in the good deeds done by their valiant protector, a midwestern farm girl and her little dog.

Everyone knows the Wicked Witch as Dorothy’s antagonist, but on Thursday night, Elphaba (the Wicked Witch) was good. Elphaba became a fiercely loyal sister, an unlikely best friend, defender of the meek and unspoken for, and a true heroine with a happy ending. From start to finish, “Wicked” had the entirety of the Theatre bellowing in laughter as all these aspects of Elphaba were explored.

I would be remiss if I did not bring attention to the musical talent and songs. As a group, “Defying Gravity” was our favorite, where Elphaba learns of her true capabilities and sets off to save the animals of Oz. Another favorite was “For Good” as it very sweetly and impactfully shows the true nature of Elphaba’s friendship with Glinda.

Without divulging into every element of irony or song, “Wicked” became a newfound favorite musical of mine. It was an incredible way to close our night, ending our trip on a very pleasing ‘note’!

And with that, LEAP’s 8-day exploration of the Deep South came to an end! We are incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to visit Georgia and South Carolina and learn about their individually rich and fascinating history.

A Dive into the Deep South: Georgia

For LEAP Ambassadors, July means not only higher temperatures, but also the opportunity to attend the Southern Legislative Conference! And although this year’s program is in Charleston, South Carolina, we flew into Atlanta, with the idea of seeing a bit more of the deep south along the way. And while a few of us may be considered ‘seasoned’ travelers, traveling is a new experience for others. In fact, this was Michelle’s first time on an airplane!

We were all very hungry after our two hour flight, so we made our first stop at the Ponce City Market, which is in a 20th century mixed-use building with a intriguing industrial interior. It consists of two floors, with the restaurants on the first and some retail shops on the first and second floors. There are a variety of cuisines from all over the world that we could have had for lunch, but instead most Ambassadors opted to pursue the deep south theme and order from Hop’s Chicken, with orders of fried chicken sandwiches, mac & cheese sides, and, of course, sweet tea.

Feeling a bit more “experimental,” Professor Yawn and Stephanie ate a wrap from Botiwalla along with SPDP, which are flour crisps with yogurt and two kinds of chutneys. Ingrid chose to get a plate of pork, rice, and beans from El Super Pan.

With full stomachs, we were ready to take on the rest of our day, starting with The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park

By Michelle Cardenas

Upon arriving at Dr. Martin Luther King’s gravesite and museum, we were met with a recording of Dr. King’s powerful words echoing across the surrounding area. We were instantly drawn to the Civil Rights Walk of Fame, where many highly influential figures in the civil rights movement, such as Rosa Parks, Gandhi, and Judge Thurgood Marshall, were featured.

The park was decorated with inspiring quotes which encapsulates the hopes MLK had for future America. We were enthralled by the powerful messaging and representative structures. The eternal flame had to have been one of my favorite pieces in the park. The flame’s symbolism was incredibly profound; its persistence emulating Dr. King’s fight against racism and segregation.

The real showstopper was definitely Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and wife Coretta Scott King’s grave and memorial. The memorial has a vibrant pool and fountain surrounding the graves, which displayed a quote from Dr.King: “We will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.” The words, placed on what looks like a shallow staircase, have a serene stream of water pouring down, which resonated heavily with the group.

We eventually made our way to the Martin Luther King Jr. Museum located on the grounds of the National Historic Park. There were many of Dr. King’s personal items on display, such as his suits, shoes, robes, wallet and my personal favorite; his cufflinks and tie clips.

Some of Martin Luther King’s biggest accomplishments were also on display including his Presidential Medal of Freedom Award, presented to him by President Jimmy Carter and his Grammy, which he won for his speech “I Have a Dream”.

Dr. Martin Luther King’s wife, Coretta Scott King, had many pieces featured in the museum. A piece that stood out from her collection included the veil she wore for her husband’s funeral; some lipstick and tear stains still remained on the garment.

After seeing so many remarkable pieces and mementos of history, we headed to the gift shop! We made sure to pick up some mementos of our own to commemorate the visit.

Before leaving, we took the time to let the beautiful exterior truly sink in. In this time, Ingrid was able to capture the vivacity of the area with some excellent photos of the flowers.

It was a beautiful and moving experience, and it was both an inspirational and educational way to start the trip.

Jimmy Carter Presidential Museum

By Ingrid Cuero

We then headed to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library, which was fitting following the MLK museum. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. actually endorsed President Carter during one of his early campaigns! Upon entry, we encountered a beautiful display with international flags surrounding a patch of vibrant flowers, signifying the 39th President’s commitment to a connection with other countries.

We began with a film providing an overview of the Carter Presidency, which was a great way to set the tone for our visit. Carter grew up on a farm in Plains, Georgia, and had a rich background. He was the first in his family to leave Georgia to pursue higher education, served in the military, and had a career as a nuclear engineer. President Carter was portrayed as a President who led with his conscience before his politics, passing key civil rights legislation in his time in office. Something that stood out to me was that he decided to leave the Navy to take over his father’s farmland. He was not necessarily invested in politics at first, but when a previous Senator vocalized a few issues that went against his beliefs of an equal society, President Carter decided to run for state senator. This marked the beginning of a career surrounding Carter’s passion for equality, civic engagement, and ethics.

President Carter’s election into office can be described as a fluke of fate. After experiencing the presidencies of two career politicians, Johnson and Nixon and the misfortunes of The Vietnam War and Watergate, voters were looking for something other than a “traditional” politician. Carter came across as an everyday American, earning trust with voters.

One of the highlights of the Carter Presidency was the peace negotiations with Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem. We were able to view some pictures and videos of the monumental achievement of restoring peace among the two countries.

One of my favorite pieces in the museum was a portrait of President Carter by Octavio Ocampo, a mosaic. If you look closely, President Carter is made up of painted buildings, boats, flags, and 18-wheelers.

We viewed a model of Carter’s Oval Office, which had a collection of art curated by the President himself. To note a few, there was a sculpture from an early American sculptor we were familiar with, Frederic Remington; a portrait of a young George Washington; and a bust of Benjamin Franklin.

We thoroughly enjoyed our experience in President Carter’s Museum!

Erica Davis Lowcountry

By Jessica Cuevas

Following a long day–one in which we woke up in Houston–we made our way from Atlanta to Savannah, a 3.5 hour drive. In Savannah, we headed to Erica Davis Lowcountry for dinner. For our appetizers, we had fried green tomatoes and oysters rockefeller, all-time classic dishes of the South.

The fried green tomatoes were highly popular amongst all of us, but Ingrid’s favorite was, by far, the oysters rockefeller.

With great starters, we were eager to indulge in our main entrees.

Morgan ordered the best thing on the menu, which, according to the person who took our order, was the Wassaw Redfish; Ingrid had the Crab Stuffed Flounder; Michelle had a Flounder Po’Boy; Professor Yawn and Stephanie shared the low country boil and a pulled pork plate; meanwhile, Olivia and I shared a BBQ combo of smoked brisket, pulled pork with mac n cheese and savannah red rice.

We were intrigued to know that all the barbeque sauces at this restaurant are made there and that they had experimented with and created a sweet and delicious *peach* barbeque sauce–and it was our favorite!

Although some of us were full, others could not leave without having dessert. Following our entrees we treated ourselves to a banana pudding, key lime cup, and a slice of carrot cake. They were all delightful!

With full stomachs, we headed back to the hotel, ready to write about our experiences, edit photos, and prepare for an even more action-packed day tomorrow.

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