Fun – Page 19 – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

Corpus Christi in Six Hours

It’s not easy to prioritize your time in a City when you have just five hours to spend, but we did a pretty good job of it.

Our morning began by visiting The Texas State Aquarium. As a fish enthusiast, Megan was especially looking forward to this underwater adventure. We began with a shark exhibit…

Aquarium_Girls_Shark_Jaws_2_Web

…before moving on to the Lion Fish and Electric Eels. One of the highlights was seeing the Aquarium staff in full scuba gear feeding these fish.

Aquarium_Girls_Feeding_Web

The Museum’s exhibits are well configured, giving you the opportunity to see them up close. The jellyfish exhibit, for example, is in low light, highlighting the animals translucent tissue.

Aquarium_Jellyfish_Web

The sea otters, crocodile, and bald eagle were outside, and they were in separate exhibits, again configured in such a way as to maximize human interaction with the animals. In the case of the sharks and stingrays, we could even put our arms in the water and “lightly touch the animals with two fingers.”

Aquarium_Girls_Sharks_Web

The true highlight of the aquarium are the dolphins. The trainers brought out four dolphins, two of which were especially good at tricks. Through mimicry, these dolphins learn to clap, jump out of the water, do flips, swim on their back, and even splash the audience! Our favorite was a three-spin flip.

Aquarium_Dolphin_Jumping_3_Web

Next door to the Aquarium is the city’s Art Museum of South Texas. The museum is housed in a structure designed by Philip Johnson and made from shellcrete.

Art_Museum_Exterior_Web

The current exhibit in the Museum was of Texas Mixed Media, and my favorite artist represented was Mary McCleary, who is actually a Professor of Art at Stephen F. Austin University. In her artist statement, she indicates she takes found objects and layers them onto paper in a way that “conveys an intensity which the viewer finds compelling.” That was the case for me (Alex), and I’d like to see more of her work.

We also had a chance to see another Dale Chihuly, and I learned about the “Art Guys,” who have a work composed of clear glass tubes horizontally placed on the wall and filled with broken glass.

Megan, too, found a new artist she liked: Bill Meek. A glass artist from Houston, his piece “Catharsis” is in a sun room overlooking a piece by Jesus Moroles outside the building.

Speaking of which, the exterior of the Museum is as intriguing as the interior. The walkway to the building includes a large, ringed fountain.

Art_Museum_Girls_3_Web

Art_Museum_Girls_6_Cropped_BW_Web

Off to the side is a large piece by James Surls, who graduated from Sam Houston State University.

Art_Museum_Surls_Girls_Web

With all the art hitting close to home, we decided to stray outside the box for lunch. Thus we went to a Vietnamese Restaurant (literally called “Vietnam Restaurant”) in Corpus Christi. This seemed like an unlikely pairing, but the food was truly good. I (Megan) ordered the Vietnam Fried Rice, which was delicious; Alex had the Vermicelli Noodles with grilled chicken; and Professor Yawn had the restaurant’s signature “Hot Pot” which, after being slow cooked for 25 minutes was, indeed, hot! And very good. It was our favorite restaurant thus far in the trip.

Before leaving Corpus, however, we felt somewhat compelled to visit “Mirador de la Flor,” which is a memorial to Selena, the Tejano singer. Selena was shot at the age of 23 but she sold more than a million albums in her short career and paved the way for other Hispanic singers.

Selena_Megan_2_Web

And with that visit, we closed down our time in Corpus Christi. Although “hooked” by the beaches, baseball, sea-life, and art, we had business in the Rio Grande Valley, so southward we roamed.

But not before getting drinks at Coffee Wave. We cannot recommend this enough! The coffee was good; the Mexican Hot Chocolate was excellent, even on a summer day; and the Chai Tea Latte was amazing! And with that, we waved goodbye to Corpus Christi!

Valley Girls: LEAP Ambassadors take to the Rio Grande Valley

After enduring the journey of the LSAT two days prior, Megan and I were ready to go on a different type of journey, one that involves beaches, baseball and sun! We packed up the car and headed to the Lower Rio Grande Valley—with planned first-day excursions to Victoria and Corpus Christi along the way.

Arriving in Victoria, TX around noon, we drove through a beautiful neighborhood filled with mostly Spanish architecture before arriving at our lunch destination, “The Pumphouse,”a river-side restaurant.

We began our meal with Fried Jalapeno Mac and Cheese wrapped in bacon, along with Shrimp Kisses, fresh gulf shrimp stuffed with pepper jack cheese, a jalapeno strop, and also wrapped in bacon.

Our entrees were just a wonderful. Professor Yawn enjoyed the fish tacos filled with mahi mahi;

Fish_Tacos_Pumphouse_Web

Megan adventurously tried the Monte Cristo, with grilled ham and cheese and roasted turkey on toasted brioche with melted cheese and a cinnamon burgundy drizzle. I, on the other hand, went for the ribeye sandwich, which was very tasty.

The restaurant is notable not only for its food, but also for its history. The property was originally owned by the Republic of Texas and was signed over to the City of Victoria by none other than Sam Houston, the President of the Republic. The property remained in the City’s possession for some 170 years, serving as the “pumphouse” to the City. In 2010 it was bought by its current owners and repurposed to a restaurant. We are glad it worked out that way.

Corpus Christi is known for its seaside location, with beautiful beaches and the nation’s 5^th largest port (in tonnage). We learned about both in our brief time here.

We began our field trip with what we hoped would be a leisurely stroll to the beach. Turns out, while we were 100 yards from the seashore, we were quite a distant to a swimmable beach. When we realized the actual distance, we tried Uber—which showed no available drivers—and then successfully hailed a cab. It was a pretty beach and the water was nice…

Alex_Beach_Web

…although after about 30 minutes of swimming, Alex felt something bump into her back. The something was a jellyfish, and after that encounter, we noticed many, many more. With that, we called it a day, and headed back to the hotel to prepare for the night’s activities.

Everyone knows summer in Corpus is beach-time, but it’s also baseball season. Corpus serves as the Houston Astros’ AA affiliate, the Hooks. The team plays at Whataburger Stadium—Corpus is home to the original Whataburger—which is very family friendly. The stadium has a water park, a swimming pool, a rock-climbing wall, and a Whataburger restaurant.

Before the game began, we got a few pictures, one with the world’s largest statue of a baseball player…

Hooks_Statue_Girls_Web

…and one with the team’s mascot!

Hooks_Mascot_Megan_Alex

We also learned to keep “score.” Keeping score is different than keeping up with what the score of the game is; it actually involves a series of notation identifying the play-by-play unfolding of the game. We learned the basics in the first three innings, watched the game and a spectacularly evolving sunset,

Corpus_Christi_Sunset_Web

at which point we were joined by Shelby O’Brien. Ms. O’Brien is a former Austin Intern for the LEAP Center, and now works in the District for Representative Todd Hunter. She educated us with interesting information about the area and offered us valuable advice for future internships. It was a pleasure getting to her know her while also learning more about the community.

Girls_Corpus_Christi_Sunset_Web

As an added bonus, Derek Fisher hit a three-run home run in the 8^th for the Hooks to win the game 6-3.

On the heels of victory, and eager to learn more about the legislative process—in the district and in Austin—we joined Shelby for dinner at a place she recommended: Water Street Oyster Bar. It was as good as lunch! We had Oysters Rockefeller and Shrimp Picayune for appetizers, and they were amazing! The Picayune was interesting and confusing, mixing both cayenne pepper and brown sugar. Professor Yawn ordered it at Shelby’s suggestion. It was good to see Professor Yawn have the opportunity to try something new, since he is encourages us to try new things. Apparently, he had also encouraged Shelby to try new things in Austin, as well, and now the tides had turned.

As for me (Alex), I enjoyed the Blackened Chicken Fettuccine filled with creole spices and topped with a garlic cream sauce, and Megan enjoyed fresh sushi. Not only did we learn that Shelby had amazing taste in food, but she was a pleasure to talk to, and it was particularly nice that she accompanied us to dinner despite an intense and long day (beginning at 6am).

It was a long day for us, too. But despite the late hour, we made our way by the original Whataburger for a quick photo of the only double-decker Whataburger in the world.

Whataburger

Day One: Big D and the GOP

Ever since we attended the Walker County Republican Convention, we had been hearing many anecdotes from previous State delegates about the State Convention, and not all of the stories were good. So we were equal parts excited and anxious to see what the 2016 Republican State Convention would be like in person.

Part I: Parliamentary Training (Brian Aldaco)

The Convention is able, in theory, to flow smoothly because it is governed by Robert’s Rules of Order, and we began the convention attending the parliamentary procedure training provided by Richard Hayes, the Parliamentarian. The procedure is used often enough that this training would benefit us tremendously in other situations. The Parliamentarian led the training and gave us a sheet to help us follow along. This sheet was extremely helpful, but it was his personality that made the training interesting.

We got helpful tips to make sure the meetings ran efficiently and we learned that the goal is to have an efficient meeting by focusing on the substance instead of parliamentary maneuvers, which often just serve to delay the proceedings. It was fairly obvious that, even before the convention had officially commenced, that Hayes was anticipating dilatory tactics and his anticipatory frustration was manifest in his suggestions. At one point, Professor Yawn leaned over and said, “I’m going to have him explain my syllabus to my classes from now on.”

After learning the basics of how the Convention will work, we had a break to spend wandering through the exhibit hall. There we were able to buy GOP pins and other Republican memorabilia. The exhibit hall was also filled with information booths of different candidates aside from the Presidential race, making for a fun tour, followed by our arrival at the large hall for our first general session.

Part II: The Session (Alex Galvan)

We weren’t sure what to expect of the session, but we were grateful to have many delegates there looking out for us. Thomas Leeper, Stephanie Fors, Mike Yawn, Kara Veinotte, Cynthia Prehoda, Richard Yawn, Dorothy Yawn, Gerald Skidmore, Bobby Gardner, Micah Slaughter, Tore Fossum, Larry Hughes, Leah Boyd, Chad Byrd, Kay Deahl, and Judy Emmett were all on hand to explain things, laugh with us, and sometimes cringe with us. The day held much promise.

We began the session with a prayer, an exuberant national anthem–including the rarely heard 2nd verse–and the pledge of allegiance to the American and Texas flags. After the opening ceremony the session began with a brief overview of convention affairs by the Republican Party of Texas Chairman Tom Mechler. These affairs included various delegate seating issues, which were quickly resolved by the delegate’s votes. Even though I am unable to vote as I am attending as a guest, it was still insightful to look into these procedures. In this case the cooperation in delegate participation and Chairman efficiency proved for a speedy process that allowed for the rest of the session to continue.

Part III: The Speakers (Karla Rosales)

After the Chairman’s proceedings, we all enjoyed a passionate discourse delivered by our state’s Governor Gregg Abbott. In his speech he voiced his opinion on how he believes the nation’s political spirit ought to be shaped, a message received with enthusiasm.

This was most noticeable when Governor Abbot received standing ovations at passionate moments in his speech. Similarly, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker of the House Joe Straus, Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick, and Land Commissioner George P. Bush also joined the stage for their remarks.

All of the enthusiasm from the moving speeches made us look forward to discussing our thoughts over our upcoming lunch break.

Before we sped off to lunch, Alex was caught by a Univision news crew for a quick interview.

Alex expertly fielded questions on topics ranging from Hispanic support for Donald Trump to the direction of the party, this burgeoning barrister’s fifteen minutes of fame ended, and we all headed to Cindi’s New York Deli for lunch.

Part IV: The Break and Senatorial Caucus (Kaitlyn Tyra)

Cindi’s New York Deli that offered classics like reubens, pastramis, and other sandwiches for lunch. We all ordered different meals, some more adventurous than others. Brian ordered a beef tongue sandwich and Karla and Kaitlyn stuck to what they knew and ordered a regular turkey and ham sandwich. During lunch we had a great time discussing and comparing the most outrageous outfits and signs at the convention…

…and our new experiences thus far.

After lunch we were ready for our first Senatorial District Caucus Meeting, where all the delegates from Senatorial District 5 (Senator Charles Schwertner’s District) met to elect representatives to the Permanent State Committees. Not only would we elect representatives, but we also were privileged to meet with members of the Texas Legislature such as Representative Larry Gonzales and his Chief of Staff, Chris Sanchez….

…and Senator Schwertner…

…and his Chief of Staff, Tom Holloway.

Speaking with both Chiefs of Staff offered helpful advice as we prepare to interview for the Austin Internship Program beginning in the next legislative session. During our Senatorial District Caucus Meeting we were assembled by counties and began by electing a Chairman to lead the caucus. Immediately following, we nominated and voted on our appointments for the Rules Committee, Platform Committee, and Credentials Committee. Electing representatives from each senate district in Texas ensures that we have representation in each procedural and policy area–people we trust to represent our views at the state level.

Part V: Random Sightings (Mike Yawn)

As rare as it is to meet with state-wide elected officials, we saw something even more rare. Yes, we saw Ryan Brim working!

At first, we thought our eyes were deceiving us, and that it might perhaps be an urban legend of some sort, something akin to a sighting of bigfoot…

…but, no, Ryan had obtained a job as Page at the convention (thank you Linda McKenzie!), and he had various tasks such as posting contradictory signs to confuse bewildered delegates.

Part VI: Wrapping Up (Megan Chapa)

After a quick break and stroll to the opposite side of the convention center, we gathered for our first Congressional District Caucus Meeting. The Congressional District Caucus Meeting elects representatives to National Committees. Interestingly enough, in this meeting it took longer for people to find their seats than it actually took to vote! The short meeting was a plus, because after a long day of labor and lawmaking, we were ready for the southern food of Ellen’s.

The newly renovated restaurant was homely and offered a variety of traditional southern plates and breakfast options. The group experimented with salads, breakfast steaks, shrimp and grits, and chicken fried steak. The restaurant had just moved locations and the service was a bit rocky (menus please!), but we all enjoyed the food. We also enjoyed the interesting conversation about the day’s events at the 2016 Republican Convention.

Thomas Leeper, First Assistant City Attorney for Bryan TX, joined us and shared with us some of his favorite legal books, advice on law school, and a few of his law-school and career experiences.

With dinner complete, we headed back to the Omni, hoping to walk off some of the food. On the way, we stopped at one of Dallas’s civic engagement spots: one of the Big D signs posted around town. Promoting the town logo of “The Big D”, the City has put up signs around town with a giant “B” and “G,” with a space in between. This space is designed to be filled by citizens, turning “i” into the City–Big D. And that’s what we did.

But that was our only stop, because our destination included an ice-cream social by Senator Lois Kolkhorst and one of her staff members, Matthew Russell.

It was great talking with a wonderful leader within the party and state. Many of her constituents were present and she made time to talk with all of them. It definitely showed us the importance of being a leader and maintaining strong relationships with constituents.

After a long day, all of us were exhausted but also excited to watch another convention day unfold. We have learned so much and have met and watched many great leaders. We hope to take what we have learned back to our communities!

Alex, Megan, Kaitlyn, Karla, and Brian would like to thank all of the Walker County Republicans who voted them as delegates and who have welcomed them to the Convention. This trip was self-funded and was not subsidized by either SHSU or the LEAP Center.

Hunts-Vegas & HEARTS

Viva, Viva, Lost Wages!! Well, maybe those are not the exact words of the famous Elvis song, but as we all can imagine those words fit the exact same meaning of Las Vegas! Once again, the LEAP Ambassadors are back for the annual Casino Night at the HEARTS Veterans Museum. The theme for this year’s casino night was 50’s and 60’s retro, so the LEAP Ambassadors left their suits at home and came in retro costumes of varying authenticity.

Of course, the boys displayed their stylish bowties. It was a particularly poignant event for me. It was my first event as a LEAP Ambassador last year, and it is my last event of this academic year, my last as an SHSU student. THe roulette wheel, as it were, went full circle. So I went all in on the costume.

The H.E.A.R.T.S Veterans Museum of Texas honors veterans both past and present. The museum serves as a place for former, present, and future veterans to all come together to reflect on and share their experiences serving the country. Just as important, the museum allows all people to see the price that our veterans and those serving today have paid for this country. They do this through exhibits and programming, the latter led by the capable Letty Clark and when she asked us to volunteer for this event, we were more than happy to do so.

After a delicious meal, and a concert from Marilyn Monroe herself…

…the gambling began and the crowd rushed to the games! The games included poker, black jack, bingo and many slot machines. All the LEAP Ambassadors were very busy with their tasks.

Alex and Karla sold tickets for the raffle.

Bryan helped develop fabulous pictures to capture everyone’s great memories of the night.

Karla and Beatriz enjoyed their time helping at the Bingo Table.

And the two most outgoing Ambassadors, Megan and yours truly, used our charm to sell poker chips.

Before the night ended, the Ambassadors were lucky enough to be given the opportunity to play some of the casino games. For some, it was their first time playing, but I was there to guide them through the process.

We had some winners and some losers at the tables, but it was all fun!

After the gambling had ceased, the main event had come: the raffle for prizes. Megan was the prize announcer and Alex chose all of the lucky winning tickets. Some of the major prizes included a one-hour massage at The Facemaker, a barbecue grill, a shotgun, and a trip to a resort and casino!

With some time spent with Marilyn Monroe, some time spent with one of our favorite community members Letty Clark, and some time spent together for a good cause, made it a fun, rewarding evening.

Of course, on a sadder note, I’ll be leaving my SHSU family, a prospect that made everyone sad (except, apparently, for Beatriz and Brian) …

But I’ll be back–for next year’s football game and some other random occasions, and LEAP will continue doing its usual combination of volunteerism, programming, pre-lawing, and travel excursions. Until then…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toVqzyX554I

Football for a Cause

In addition to providing some fun football action, the LEAP Center’s 7th Annual Charity Football game also provides half-time activities for the young (at heart), brings town and gown together, gives current Ambassadors a chance to connect or re-connect with LEAP alumni, and old friends to reunite.

Of course, we had the whole obligatory football game to play…

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

But once that rigamarole was out of the way, we had a real chance to unite for good causes. Actually, the uniting began much earlier. The practices began in January, and served not only to improve our meager football skills, but also to build some bonds–bridging social capital, as Political Scientist Robert Putnam would put it. The lineups include Democrats and Republicans, students, SHSU alumni, and community leaders, as well as two of SHSU’s staff. After 10 practices, people who otherwise would never have even met, now are are friends.

This disparate group then sets out to raise money. They do this by donating $100 (students) or $150 (non-students). This year, we were able to raise $1,700 just starting with the players. Our goal is to then bring the community in to raise much more. This year, that worked well, with some impressive community support.

DCIM101MEDIA — Paul Olle Photography (Drone)

Sometimes that community support pays off–even for the community members. Judge Mike Countz, for example, won the raffle, winning a football signed by the SHSU football team.

The raffle, though, is small potatoes compared to the rest of the half-time activities. Everyone loves the wheelbarrow race…

Although some loved it more than others…

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

A smaller hit was the spoon races, which drew limited participation.

…and necessitated a ridiculous amount of coaching.

The sack race was a bigger hit…

…and much more competitive!

Of course, what would a fundraiser for the YMCA (and John Holcombe Scholarship) be without the YMCA Dance?

In addition to bringing different people together, the game also brings out people who have never before danced…

…but it was a lot of fun…

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

…And we even had a little Russian dancing going on.

This dance sequence is even more impressive when you realize that some of these people are Republicans (see Ryan, far right, above)!

Thomas Haase was johnny-on-the-spot, and he got a video of the whole affair…

Of course, as noted above, the real reason for the get together was to raise funds for local causes…the YMCA…

…and John Holcombe Scholarship…

At the time we made the check order, we had raised $6,000. By the end of the game, we raised $6,500. In the seven years we’ve held this game, we’ve raised a total of $26,500.

Some of the people who participated in the game in earlier years were back on hand. Blake Roach and his girlfriend, Jaclyn Coles.

…and Justin Beiser and Annel Gonzales…

…and some new faces, such as Alvin Casimere…

…and Kaden Leaf!

Who knew raising money and having Democrats and Republicans together could be so much fun?

Fun, Fundraising, and Football

The bi-partisanship spirit started with the fundraising and the weekly practices. It continued with donations from both the Democratic and Republican parties of Walker County. Even the coin for the coin toss featured George Washington, the father of the country, the man who pre-dates either party. Officiating over the coin toss was former Mayor Mac Woodward, a man who won six elections on a non-partisan ballot.

It was a stage set for both Republicans and Democrats to have fun while raising funds for worthy causes: the Huntsville YMCA and the John Holcombe Scholarship.

There was no Goodyear Blimp on hand, but there was a drone. Handling official photography duties, Paul Olle brought out his drone to get some “over-the-top” photographs–literally. It was Blue and Orange together.

That togetherness extended even to prayer.

Of course with several players in their forties, prayer was needed.

And, with that, it was kickoff time. It was a game that emphasized offense, and almost every player got into the act, although at first it seemed like it might turn into the Ryan Show…

Ryan_Catching_1_Web — Paul Olle Photograph

…or the Laken Show…

After a series of catches and pursuits, the two started becoming aggressive, with Ryan grabbing shorts…

Laken_Running_3_Ryan_Shorts_Web — Paul Olle Photography

…Laken grabbing shirts…

…and, when Ryan couldn’t get close enough to grab, he just yelled…

The big boys soon got into the act, with many long passes ensuing.

Joey had some particularly nice catches…

…and he let people know…

Joey_Running_5_Ball_Web — Paul Olle Photograph

Taylor Martin got into the act, using his size and speed…

Taylor_Running_1_Web — Paul Olle Photography

… and leaping ability…

…to help the Orange team.

It goes without saying that Austin was all over the field…

Austin_Catching_4_Web — Paul Olle Photography

Often with no one else around him!

Or, if someone was around him, they were usually behind him.

Austin_Running_5_Taylor_Web — Paul Olle Photography

As a student, Cameron was known for his steady, consistent, and reliable ways. He’s much the same on the football field, and he was occasionally charged with covering Austin or, if not Austin, then Joey. But at least once they were trying to cover him…

But with a total of 22 touchdowns scored, there was plenty of offensive action to go around. Margaret caught a few balls…

..and Megan caught about as many passes as anyone else on game day.

And even had a breakaway run.

Russell Martinez got his share of the action.

Russell_Running_2_Web — Paul Olle Photography

…despite opponents using unfair tactics to contain him.

But there is no containing Russell.

Russell_Close_Up_Web — Paul Olle Photography

Kaitlyn had some action, too…

…although not always with positive results.

But she kept her game face on!

Kaitlyn_Profile_Web — Paul Olle Photography

She needed her game face, because she was covering Alex Galvan!

Galvan caught her share in the first half…

But it was the second half when she turned it on. Indeed, it was the last two minutes of the game that proved most exciting.

Down 10-8, the Orange team battled back, with Alex scoring on a long run.

Then, with a 10-9 lead, the Blue team had the ball with less than 2 minutes. A score would put it out of reach. A sustained drive would run out the clock. But a fumble, recovered by Ryan…

…kept the crowd on the edge of their seats…

…and the fumble recovery led to a touchdown by Taylor and, like that, Orange tied the game.

With only 30 seconds left, Blue failed to score, pushing the game to overtime. Our overtime was improvised–no plans had ever been much for such a contingency, and it had never happened.

The City Planner suggested two possessions, each starting at the 50.

With that agreed, Orange got the ball first. And in the only possession allowed Orange in its overtime, Alex Galvan catches a touchdown. It was her first over-the-shoulder catch of the year.

…and it was a patented Galvan Finger-Tip grab.

Alex_Catching_TD_2_Web — Paul Olle Photography

For perhaps the first time in the game, Blue was behind. They had one possession to tie the game, and it ended as suddenly as it began, with a bomb to Joey Johnson for touchdown.

It was a fun game, one that designed to bring people together. Perhaps it didn’t bring as many people out as we would have liked, but it succeeded in raising funds for the Holcombe Scholarship…

Check_Presentation_Holcombe_2_Web — Paul Olle Photography

…and the YMCA…

Check_Presentation_YMCA_4_Web — Paul Olle Photography

…and in uniting folks with different backgrounds to common cause….

…and a lot of fun…

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Arkansas PSA: Little Rock and Monticello

The first two days of exploring Little Rock were filled with adventure and knowledge. However, our adventures were not yet complete. Even after a fully loaded two days in the state, we continued on to the Arkansas Political Science Association Conference in Monticello, setting out at about 6am to make the 1.5 hour trip.

At the conference our very own Professor Yawn served as a discussant for the Undergraduate Research on Public Policy panel and later presented his own research. We were also excited to be there to support our fellow LEAP Ambassador Megan Chapa, who would later present her research paper on “Maquiladoras, NAFTA and their Consequences.” Upon our arrival we were graciously welcomed by Dr. Strong and the staff of the University of Arkansas at Monticello, then made our way quickly to the room where Professor Yawn’s panel discussion would be. The panel room was a cozy fit, much like any classroom you would find on campus at Sam Houston. This made the presentations of the research engaging and a personal. Subjects of the research ranged from the cyber security in the United States by Shannon Abbott…

…to the study of multi-lateral agreements by Nicolaas Harrington…

…to the development of Spanish democracy by Sarah Phillips…

to the study of game theory by William O’Brachta…

…to an examination of indigenous autonomy by Emily Mendiola…

Watching other students in the political science field present research encouraged and energized the students of LEAP to one-day present research at future conferences nationwide.

After sitting in on an undergraduate discussion panel on public policy, chaired by Professor Yawn, we waited for Megan to present her research on the impact of NAFTA on the social and economic status of Mexican “maquiladora” laborers. As part of an American Politics panel, Megan presented research alongside four other passionate undergraduate students.

The panel was chaired by Karen Sebold, a professor of public policy at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, whose responsibility during the session was to direct the presentation of everyone’s research papers and lead the discussion in regards to the papers after the presentation of every student.

The session began with a presentation on the Tea Party’s influence on the current Republican Party. With a most timely topic in regards to our political atmosphere, Tyler Harrison of the University of Arkansas at Monticello offered an in depth analysis of the Tea Party’s freedomworks rating system.

Followed thereafter Robert Fletcher, also a University of Arkansas at Monticello undergraduate student, presented his paper on the benefits of promoting bicycle friendly road policy that could stimulate the economic and social prosperity of a small community’s transportation system.

As the third student to present, Jolyon Larson of Hendrix University provided his thesis on the best way for waste plants to cut down on harmful emissions.

Lastly, Leslie Beard of the University of Arkansas at Monticello expressed her fears regarding our nation’s political structure in her paper “Who’s really in control at the top.”

With Megan as the fourth presenter in the panel, we attentively clung to every word of her research on Mexican social issues presented by NAFTA. She focused on the exploitation and harassment of women maquiladora workers, the environmental violations of these industries, and the widespread human trafficking encouraged by these multinational agreements.

It was clear that her, and all the other panelists, were passionate about public policy and a more successful government structure. The conducted research in each presentation was further example of what passion for a noble cause can yield.

We also got feedback from Megan, who presented at her first conference:

I was nervous, but nonetheless confident and excited to represent SHSU and the LEAP Center at the conference. Before our panel began, our discussant informed us that another student had joined our Undergraduate Research Panel and that our presentation time would be cut short by about 5 minutes. I was more nervous about going over my allotted time because I had prepared my presentation to be 15 minutes. I was scurrying through my paper trying to take out 5 minutes of information that wouldn’t take too much away from my research. What I enjoyed most was the constructive criticism I received from my discussant, Dr. Sebold of University of Arkansas-Fayetteville. She was helpful in providing suggestions that will improve the research I am working on. I am thankful for the opportunity to expand my horizons outside of home (Texas) and meet students who are striving to make a difference in the political arena.” -Megan Chapa

We all agreed that this chance to support our fellow LEAP ambassador’s passionate delivery was worth the limited sleep.

The ArkPSA topped off the conference with a lunch and presentation by John Kyle Day, who presented his work on Civil Rights in Arkansas, particularizing on the Southern Manifesto.

It was interesting research and, although we didn’t know it at the time, we would hear echoes of his research the next day, when we visited the Little Rock Central High Museum (see tomorrow’s blog!).

Following the conference in Monticello, we drove back to Little Rock to do some shopping before our adventurous Segway tour. We took the opportunity to explore some of the quaint shops near the River Market and downtown area.

Visiting the local shops, we wandered through shops such as The Freckled Frog, Discovery Museum Gift Shop, and 4Square Café and Gifts. We enjoyed browsing through the shops, but eventually ended up at one of our favorite places, the River Market!

The group refueled with a small snack before heading off to our Segway tour of Little Rock!

We were excited to continue touring more of downtown Little Rock, but this time we were on a Segway! Most of the group have had some experience with riding segways – actually, all except me (Bella Abril), and the others were quick to get with the program…

As clumsy as I am even with just walking, however, I was a bit hesitant on trying it out at first. I was scared I would embarrass myself by falling on my face. However, our Turkish tour guide, Nez Erkman, trained us in such a detailed manner with much emphasis on safety that I found myself easing up. Plus, seeing everybody ride it so calmly gave me confidence that maybe I could do the same. Thankfully, I did! The first step was the scariest part, but the rest was exhilarating. Throughout the tour, we were able to segway through The Clinton Bridge…

…which held a nice view of the sunset…

The Clinton Presidential Library…

and Heifer International. Also, we passed through the Riverfront Park, where we were able to take pictures on the rock that Little Rock derives its name from…

as well as observe interesting historic markers and creative sculptures. From a total newbie segwayer to part of the veteran segwayers of LEAP, the tour definitely deepened both my interest in Arkansan culture and the graceful art of segwaying.

The segway tour not only fueled our desire to learn about Little rock, but also fueled our appetites! We walked a couple of blocks to get to the well-known Sonny Williams’ Steak Room. We started with a turtle soup and a wild game sausage and cheese plate as appetizers. The wild game sausage and cheese plate consisted of rabbit, elk, and boar sausage. Some of us were particularly hesitant to try the turtle soup and rabbit sausage because it was something completely new for most of us, but we chose to go with our adventurous side and taste each appetizer. For our entrees we all chose a type of steak. We ordered a 12 oz. Filet to a Bone-in Cowboy Ribeye and a New York Strip. As soon as we each took the first bite of our steaks, we all agreed that these were the best steaks we have ever tried. It was clear to us why Sonny Williams is so well known for its steaks. After being extremely satisfied with both the appetizers and the entrees, we tried a couple of deserts. The Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce and the Chocolate Orange Cake were rich enough, but also light enough to kept our satisfaction rating high.

On our way back to the car, we squeezed in a bit more adventure by taking a short detour to an old telephone booth that is now used as a community book exchange. Professor Yawn challenged us to see if we could all fit in the telephone booth, and of course we accepted his challenge.

It was a tight squeeze, especially right after our filling dinner, but we all fit (more or less)!

And, after a bit of a detour to walk off some of dinner…

…called it a night and made our way back to the hotel for a much-needed night of rest.

Presidential Politics, Fun, and Film: Day 2 in Arkansas, Continued

After being filled to our hearts desire at the Whole Hog Café, we were motivated to continue our exploration of Little Rock. Now with renewed energy we made our way to the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum. Located adjacent to the Arkansas River the Clinton Presidential Library’s exterior is almost entirely made of glass, which allows much light into the interior…

…a factor that contributed to the being designated as one of the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly places to work in the United States, regardless of the intense southern sun beating down. In addition to being the 42^nd President of the United States, Clinton also served as the 42^nd Governor of Arkansas and 50^th Attorney General of Arkansas.

Clinton was an enormous political figure for the state in which he was born and raised and the Library not only gave written narrative of his life…

…it also used the architecture to tell the story of Bill Clinton’s life and presidency. The architecture symbolized Clinton’s, message of “building a bridge to the future”, and fit right in with the many bridges of Little Rock…

…as it had the appearance of a bridge itself. The Clinton narrative was further developing by a time line of megalithic proportions.

Every year that Clinton served as President had an entire wall devoted to some of the key events of that year.

Another treat of the Library was art by Dale Chihuly, one of the LEAP Center’s favorites.

Before we knew it, it was time for our next stop of the day.

All of us walked outside and expected to climb back in the van and get going, but Professor Yawn had a different plan in mind. We were all pleasantly surprised by cardboard boxes waiting atop of one of the steep hills along side the Presidential library that were to serve as our sliding boards! Still in shock of this very spontaneous moment that Professor Yawn planned, we all chose a flat cardboard box to use as our boards. Standing at the very top of the hill, we all heard Professor Yawn shout, “GO!” and before we knew it we were all racing down the side of the grassy hill!

Sliding down the hill turned out to be more fun than we all expected, so we all raced back up multiple times and slid down in different positions which included sitting flat on the box, laying on our stomach, and even sitting inside of the box.

All the cheerfulness was a beneficial change to the quiet atmosphere of the library.

So much so, that we did it again…

…and again…

…even Professor Yawn went down…

We had to finally stop…

…before someone got hurt…

With some stains on our pants, mud on our shirts, and grass in our hair, we rushed to Heifer International for our next tour.

There we learned that the non-profit organization’s mission is to eliminate poverty, a mission that is completed in an interesting way. We started our tour with a brief informational session, provided by a Heifer International volunteer named Rick Hendricks.

With requests of aid from all over the country, the organization is capable of helping communities in need worldwide. As hinted above, the organization’s way of providing assistance in one that is not often seen in relief organizations. In order to complete their mission, the organization dose not provide relief through the offering of money or common supplies, instead it offers one of the most valuable of virtues anyone can be offered, an education of self-sustainability.

When contacted for help, Heifer International officials travel to the community in need. In order for the group in need to receive relief, they must first undergo a year-long process in which these organization officials educate the community in the various ways so they can maintain self sufficiency. After being taught the 12 Cornerstones for Just and Sustainable Development, centered on values like gender equality, improving the environment, marketing skills, and the like, the group in need is then offered an unusual donation. They are given a “living gift.” These living gifts may be a cow, seeds, sheep etc, that are indigenous to the petitioner’s home. This enables the organization’s efforts to stay local to the petitioner’s home to provide self-sustainability and resourcefulness.

With a cow donation for example, the destitute individual can now use the cow’s capability to produce 30 gallons of milk per week to provide food for his family and may also provide an income source though the sale of the milk. These marketing skills are taken further when the individual is capable of using the milk to produce more goods, such as cheese. The cow’s manure can also be used as a fuel source by using its methane emission. Additionally, in accordance to Heifer’s mission, every petitioner is required to “pass on the gift.” With the cow donation, once it gives birth to a calf, the petitioner must gift it to someone else of his/her community. Doing so provides for the growth in community welfare and economic development.

This mission of self-sustainability and resourcefulness was manifest when touring the headquarter building of the organization, a tour led by Joanne Willson.

As a Platinum LEED Building, it is among the most environmentally friendly of buildings in the whole world (only 50 structures in the US have this designation). Every single architectural feature of the building is in accordance with their mission. Their roof is slanted to collect rainwater in a pool located within the building which is then used for various uses within the building. In a similar fashion the parking lot is covered in porous gravel, which allows harmful chemicals to be filtered out, allowing the water to be re-used as, for example, irrigation water. In all, the Heifer International headquarters collects 25 thousand gallons of water. Consequently, the headquarters requires no city water services, with exception of water used for drinking and hand washing. The design also allows for the sun to provide light within the building to minimize the use of artificial light. This natural light is also reflected through the use of tin (reflecting) ceiling. With the various other infrastructural modifications, the building is able to use less than half the electricity a normal building of its size would use.

When the tour of the building was concluded, we all wandered through the unique gift shop that includes many products made from areas where Heifer International helps. The gift shop offers unique buys such as paper and notebooks made from elephant dung, goat milk lotions, and many more!

In our trip to Little Rock, no activity has offered me more of a sense of passion than Heifer International. It is not enough to believe in a noble cause, it is necessary to act upon it and ensure that it will live on through the ages. Its determination to teach self-sustainability and to “pass on the gift” is inspiring.

Filled with inspiration, we decided to venture into a part of Little Rock that only Professor Yawn and Alex had seen before, the Old Mill.

Known as the last surviving set of “Gone with the Wind,” the Old Mill’s natural beauty was picturesque even during the dreariness of February. The lighting was perfect for photographs…

…and we took advantage of our opportunities to create memorable group photos!

The park has various settings surrounding the mill for photographs. There is a “well…”

…various rock formations…

…a big bridge…

…and a small bridge…

Oddly enough the Old Mill is located in the center of a nice neighborhood, but was built in 1933 as a replica of an abandoned water-powered grist mill. We enjoyed this stop and had fun amidst the chilly weather!

With the sun setting but not yet ready for dinner, we headed to the “Big Dam Bridge.” This was a nice walk up on–as its name suggests–a large dam.

Although it was late at night and the lighting was low, the sight was impressive, but with stomachs rumbling and grumbling, we decided that it was time for dinner, turned, and headed for our last excursion of the day.

For dinner, we chose to go a fancier route in a restaurant called the Copper Grill. Although it seemed like we’ve had enough meat for the day at the Whole Hog Cafe, it didn’t really stop us from ordering meat-based meals again…

…though we did try some seafood as well for a little bit of variety. Our meal took an adventurous route for those of us who tried oysters for the first time before our entrees arrived. The mushroom stuffed chicken, ribeye steak, bacon avocado burger, bacon wrapped shrimp, mushroom stuffed ravioli, and flat bread all looked appetizing when they arrived at our table (and they tasted as great as they looked!).

Most of us made sure to save room for the chocolate bread pudding topped with ice cream that we had for dessert…

…which Alex, Mitch and I thoroughly enjoyed. It was a wonderful way to top a wonderful day.

	The Civic Leadership… on Foundational Activities of the…
	The Civic Leadership… on The Philosophical Foundations…
	LEAPing Into Action… on The Philosophical Foundations…
	Jada Cook on SHSU Students LEAP Across Five…
	Reflections from the… on Kicking off the Semester Right…