Being in Denver, we felt compelled to visit Rocky Mountain National Park on an off day, so we set out early to do just that! Along the way, we visited the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder to explore the local shops. One store we stopped at was the Boulder Bookstore, where Olivia purchased a notebook, a copy of Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar, and a set of beautiful notecards. It was an excellent bookstore, and I am sure we all wished we had more time to explore it.
Nearby, we saw the Boulder County Court House, a building designed in the art deco style.
Finally, to prepare for our trip, we went to a local market in Lyons called St. Vrain Market, Deli, and Bakery. At the deli, we picked up sandwiches to enjoy on the mountain.
Rocky Mountain National Park
by Olivia Discon
The trails were a patchwork of ice and untouched snow, the lakes frozen over into eerie stillness. A single blue Stellar’s jay flitted between bare branches, watching us with the kind of judgment only nature can provide.
Rocky Mountain National Park in winter is a mix of beauty and betrayal.
The meadows stretched wide and open, peaceful and quiet under the weight of the season.
Trails wove through icy patches and steep layers of snow. Every step was a guessing game—solid ground or sudden sinkhole?
We crunched through the meadows, the wind howling low across the open expanse, until we reached the rocks.
That’s when things escalated.
Professor Yawn and I decided, in our infinite wisdom, that we should climb them. Not just once. Not just some rocks. No, we scaled rock faces like mountain goats who had lost all sense of self-preservation.
One climb turned into another, and before we knew it, we were standing at a questionable height, looking out over the vastness of the park.
And that’s when we heard it.
A faint, disembodied voice from below.
It was Chrissy.
From where we stood, she was just a tiny figure, barely visible, shouting up at us as if we had ascended into some divine realm. The wind carried our voices down to her, but to her ears, it must have sounded like the echoes of gods speaking from the mountaintops. We, of course, did not correct this perception.
“Chrissy, we see all,” I replied, as if we had unlocked some kind of mountain-wisdom. “We are everywhere and nowhere.”
She was not impressed. But she did eventually find her way up.
And we were able to share in the beautiful views.
We eventually made our way back down, the snow still unpredictable beneath our feet, the air crisp and unforgiving.
But it was as beautiful as it was unforgiving.
And we explored that beauty by circling the perimeter of Sprague Lake (on the East side of the Park, where it was much snowier)….
Note: Chrissy and Olivia in Distance
…where we witnesses to a proposal!
The winds were brutal, but the scenery was just compensation.
And we ultimately enjoyed our time on the Lake–so much so that we decided to go to another!
The Brutality – Scenery tension was a bit more on the side of Brutality at Bear Lake. The snows were deeper, so much so that the trail was indiscernible, except for the occasional signs that were almost buried in the snow.
Note “Bierstadt Lake,” Named for Artist Albert Bierstadt
Few people were on the trails, for good reason.
But we ventured on, trudging through the snow, around rocks, and even on the frozen lake!
It was quite a different experience than we were accustomed to in Texas on spring break.
As we made additional forays into the park, we made additional discoveries, such as deer (we ended up seeing almost 50).
On one case, when returning to the van, Stephanie interjected, saying, “Moose. Don’t step any further.”
Little did we know, there were two of them—the first that Chrissy and I had ever seen.
They moved through the trees, pausing only to munch on whatever food they could find amidst the snow. Later, on our drive out, we saw even more moose, casually grazing along the roadside. Professor Yawn and Chrissy, feeling adventurous, hopped out to get closer for photos. Stephanie and I, however, stayed in the car, content with admiring from a safe (and smart) distance.
Despite the unpredictability of nature, we thoroughly enjoyed Rocky Mountain National Park.
It became, by a wide margin, our favorite National Park experience. It was immediately understood why painters and romantic poets expressed the sense of awe provided by America’s vast and inspiring landscape.
When LEAP Ambassadors travel, they aim to make the most of it, unsure of when they might be able to return. Today exemplified that spirit, as we tried interesting food, dropped in to our ACJS Conference site, roamed the Denver Public Library, toured the Clyfford Still Museum, explored the Colorado State Capitol Building, and visited a National Wildlife Refuge.
Denver Public Library
The Denver Public Library is not only the home of thousands of books, ideaLAB Makerspaces, and research materials, but it also owns some impressive art, and that is one of the major reasons we stopped by.
Along the way, we saw some impressive pieces, such as a Frederic Remington…
…but we also had a chance to see the work of artists new to us, such as Marie McFarland, Chase Varney, and, especially, Otto Kuhler.
Perhaps most impressive among the paintings was an Albert Bierstadt!
Although we also just loved some of the spaces, such as one of the reading rooms…
Our experience suggests that a robust library system across a wide variety of services benefits the community greatly. They promote literacy; allow for research in the community, which foster a sense of community identity; if done correctly, they can beautify the community; and, perhaps most important, they bring a community together. And this is what we witnessed in Denver: a friendly staff, a beautiful interior–further beautified by the art; and a diverse group of users, which included us!
Clyfford Still Museum
The Clyfford Still Museum gave us a chance to see the evolution of an artist who refused to conform to the art world’s expectations. The galleries were arranged to show the progression of his work, starting with his early pieces, which were more representative and realistic, before gradually shifting toward abstraction.
I found his earlier works particularly interesting, especially the ones featuring figures with large hands and elongated faces.
While I’m still not entirely sure what to make of them, they seem to reflect struggle and resilience, possibly tied to the hardships of the Great Depression.
What stood out to me the most, though, was Still’s complete rejection of the art industry. He despised galleries, museums, and critics, believing they distorted the meaning of art and prioritized profit over artistic integrity. He was known to pull out of exhibitions and refused to title his paintings, even going so far as to remove preexisting titles to prevent outside interpretation.
His frustration was clear in a statement he made in 1971: “I am deeply outraged that my entire life is being interpreted as a long struggle to be recognized by some damn fool art critics or to be sold successfully in the galleries or even to find their way into art museums because I consider these institutions to be corrupt in the purpose and their meaning and their effect on the artist and society.”
One of the more unexpected features of the museum was the use of canvas screens to partially cover certain pieces, allowing them to be revealed while also being preserved.
As we moved through the galleries, we could see how Still’s work became more abstract and how much control he maintained over his legacy.
Even after his death, his wishes shaped how his art was displayed and handled. Unlike many of his peers, his work wasn’t scattered across various museums or private collections—it was kept together, exactly as he intended. He may have been a particular man, but he was also a particularly fascinating man.
Colorado State Capitol Building
by Chrissy Biello
The Colorado State Capitol took fifteen years to complete, finishing in 1901 at a cost of nearly three million dollars. Despite its distance from Texas, the building evokes a sense of recognition among many Texas visitors. This familiarity comes from its design by Elijah E. Myers, the same architect who designed the Texas State Capitol. In fact, Myers’ influence extends beyond these two states, as he also designed the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing.
Walking into the building, visitors can see many features that connect it to significant landmarks across the country.
Moreover, the building showcases rare Colorado Rose Onyx, a pink-hued stone found only in a quarry near Beulah in Pueblo County. Nearly the entire known supply was used in the Capitol’s construction, making it the only building in the world to feature this material.
For sci-fi fans, one particular design in the Rose Onyx resembles the likeness of Princess Leia‘s hair from Star Wars…
And one interesting detail for those interested in city government is that John Hickenlooper, the 42nd Governor of Colorado, was the mayor of Denver from 2003 to 2011. His gubernatorial portrait stands out dramatically among the gallery of solemn official paintings in the West Foyer. Instead of opting for a conventional formal pose, Hickenlooper is captured atop the dome of the Capitol with the Denver City and County Building behind him, dressed casually in a plaid shirt.
When touring the Capitol, one will also notice how some of the building’s design nods to the British Parliamentary system. The Senate chamber is filled with red-colored stencils on the wall, while the House features green.
In the Senate, there are multiple stained glass portraits of some of the state’s most influential figures. Ruth Stockton, the first woman to serve as President pro tem of the Senate, is one that is frequently mentioned. She made history not only by being the first woman in that role but also by serving longer than any other woman in the legislature (24 years).
While the Senate has several stained glass portraits, the House Chamber has just one: a stained glass portrait of Barney L. Ford. Ford was an escaped slave who became a civil rights leader and fought for voting rights for African Americans in Colorado.
The ending highlight of touring the Colorado State Capitol is the opportunity to go up to the dome.
However, you will need to brace yourself for the 99-step climb, which is also pretty steep.
From this elevated vantage point, the panoramic view encompasses significant landmarks throughout the city.
Straight ahead, one can spot the Denver City and County Building featured in John Hickenlooper’s gubernatorial portrait.
To the left, one can see the Colorado Supreme Court building. Most notably, the Rocky Mountains can be seen in the distance, providing a stunning backdrop that highlights Denver’s unique geographical setting.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Park
To end the day on an even higher note of adventure, we headed eight miles northwest of Denver, where forty years ago, the United States Army operated a chemical weapons manufacturing plant—scary stuff. After an expensive clean-up process, the site is now the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, an expanse of land that hosts more then 330 species of animal.
We did not see all of those species, but we saw a sufficient amount to make our afternoon.
We saw rabbits and deer. We have, of course, seen these species previously, but on this day we saw more than 60 deer on the eleven-mile driving tour!
Moreover, we saw some species that, for us, were first-time spottings. A favorite was Prairie Dogs, which we saw scurrying from the sound of our vehicle, barking a warning to their fellow Dogs, or simply going about their business of eating. They were a delight.
We also saw several species of birds, including the ever-present Canadian Geese…
…Robins, Red-Tailed Hawks, Canvasbacks, a Tri-Colored Heron, Northern Shovelers, European Starlings, Red-Winged Blackbirds, and a murder of crows–one of which was carrying a bone.
That may not sound exciting, but we also saw a Bald Eagle (Chrissy’s first), , numerous Magpies (first for both Chrissy and Olivia), and three Wild Turkeys (another first for both Chrissy and Olivia).
Of course, the big find was the herd of Bison. Numbering more than 100, they spent most of their time eating, but they were surrounded by some amazing scenery, as they roamed the prairies with the towering and snow-capped Rocky Mountains in the background.
We even saw part of the herd begin to run, kicking up dust all the way, as they rejoined part of the herd from which they had separated. It was a majestic sight at a majestic site.
As we headed to the close of the wildlife drive, we were able to spot the Denver skyline framed against the beautiful Rocky Mountains.
Tocabe
Our final stop of this long and adventurous involved additional adventure: dinner. Keeping with the LEAP tradition of exploring food consistent with the cultures we are visiting and/or learning about, we decided to eat at Tocabe, which is co-owned by a member of the Osage Nation, and which bills itself as a restaurant offering meals that tell the stories “of our American Indian culture through native-sourced recipes and ingredients.”
We tried a variety of dishes and did some sharing, hoping to get sampling of their entire menu. Professor Yawn tried the Indian Fry Bread, stuffed with shredded Bison; Olivia opted for the chicken; and Chrissy explored the ground Bison; and we also ordered a bowl of Bison chili and, for desert, we tried Wojapi with Indian Fry Bread (with cinnamon and sugar, of course).
It was a fulfilling way to end the day, providing insight into the culinary traditions of Native Americans, offering a new food experience, and whetting our appetite for more Bison and Wojapi.
One of the pleasant things about Little Rock, AR is the mix of major museums and attractions and smaller, more intimate points of interest. Thus, after spending a few days attending a major book festival, visiting the Little Rock Central High Civil Rights Museum, and the Clinton Presidential Library, the LEAP Ambassadors prepared for a short respite at Old Mill Park in North Little Rock, AR.
The site is perhaps most famous as the last surviving set of Gone With the Wind (where it appears for approximately two seconds at the beginning of the film), but it is now a destination for any individuals or groups who want a beautiful place for photos.
The park has several bridges…
…several water features…
…an intriguing stone structure…
…and, of course, a mill, which is also a water feature.
For us, it was a pleasant way to spend an early evening, relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the Natural State.
Established as a national park in 2020, New River Gorge is one of the newest additions to the national park system, and it provided us with some memorable firsts. The park is renowned for its rugged beauty, rich history, and the New River, which is one of the oldest rivers on the continent. Spanning over 70,000 acres, the park boasts over 100 miles of trails, offering a variety of experiences from strenuous hikes to scenic walks–although on the rainy, overcast morning we visited, the view was somewhat obstructed until later in the day.
We began our journey by taking a quick look around the Visitor Center, where we familiarized ourselves with the park’s history and features. The park ranger provided valuable information about safe exploration routes, ensuring our hike would be both enjoyable and secure. From the Visitor Center, we headed to the section of the New River Gorge that houses the Castle Rock Trail and the Grandview Rim Trail. These trails, totaling about 3.2 miles out and back, promised a mix of strenuous and scenic experiences.
Our group split up to tackle the different trails. Professor Yawn, Cinthia, Olivia, and Chrissy set out on the Castle Rock Trail, navigating its more strenuous, rocky terrain.
Meanwhile, Stephanie and I took the Grandview Rim Trail, which led us through a beautiful tunnel of luscious vegetation.
The trails eventually converged, and we all continued together toward our final destination, the Turkey Spur Overlook. When we arrived at the “overlook,” we were mostly looking over clouds.
But the sky slowly cleared, and we were able to see some of the river and train tracks in the gorge.
There were also stairs (150, to be exact) to a lookout that gave us an additional perspective.
But with the rain returning, we took shelter briefly under an overhang….
…and then returned to the car….
…while making the most of nature views along the way…
We even gave Flat Sammy a chance to explore!
…Although he didn’t much appreciate the rain.
New River Gorge is a National Park with multiple units, consisting of not only the “Grandview” area, but also Sandstone Falls and the Bridge. We were unable to visit the Falls, but we did make sure to see the Bridge, which was pretty magnificent.
It is the longest (3,030 feet) steel span bridge in the United States, and the third highest (876 feet), and it is really an architectural marvel and beauty from multiple perspectives.
Looking away from the bridge, visitors are graced with beautiful views of the gorge and a distant bridge.
The smaller bridge in the photo above was the former means of traversing the gorge, a route that takes some 45 minutes to drive. With the New River Gorge Bridge, that trip is now less than a minute.
The natural beauty of the area shone through, even in less-than-ideal conditions. Most importantly, this trip allowed me to check off another first with LEAP, creating lasting memories with a wonderful team and making my first national park visit an unforgettable experience.
Following an exploration of historic Lewisburg, WV, where we visited stores, investigated historic sites, and met with the Visitors Bureau staff…
…we changed into our conference clothes, readied ourselves for the beautiful Greenbrier, and prepared ourselves for a different type of learning.
The Rest is History: Historic Preservation Tax Credits and Economic Development
by Chrissy Biello
Our favorite session was titled Historic Preservation Tax Credits and Economic Development, an appropriate topic inasmuch as three of us had completed internships with the Economic Development Department for the City of Huntsville. For this session, The speakers included Eric Nelson, a West Virginia State Senator; Danielle Waltz, Partner at Dinsmore & Shol LLP; and Shaw Sprague, VP of Government Relations at the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The speakers provided a comprehensive overview of the federal Historic Tax Credit (HTC) program. Initiated in 1978 with a 10% credit and made permanent in 1986, the program now offers a 20% credit based on qualified expenditures. This federal credit is available only for commercial properties and is distributed over five years at a rate of 4% annually. This detailed explanation was enlightening, as it clarified how federal policies are structured to support long-term preservation efforts.
They further discussed how transferable credits can significantly impact financing for preservation projects. Transferable credits are valuable because they allow property owners with limited tax liability to sell their credits to other taxpayers, thereby facilitating the financing of historic renovations. This concept is crucial for cities seeking to revitalize older areas without relying solely on their own financial resources.
The speakers also covered how states can optimize various tax sources to support these programs. For instance, Texas, which lacks an income tax, leverages business or insurance taxes to fund preservation efforts. This strategy was particularly interesting to me because it showcases how states can creatively utilize available resources to achieve their preservation goals.
An illustrative example from West Virginia was the Wesbanco Building, a 17-story office building built in 1972. Despite its initial drawbacks, such as not having a sprinkler system and being abandoned, a developer acquired it for only $5 million and utilized HTCs to renovate the property! This truly demonstrates how historic tax credits can transform underperforming assets into valuable community resources.
Another example shared was from Fayetteville, West Virginia, where old schools are being repurposed into community assets. Ms. Waltz explained how an elementary school is being converted into a 20-24 unit apartment building, with additional townhomes planned. This project, supported by HTCs, has created 30 construction jobs and will provide 25 permanent jobs upon completion.
The speakers effectively offered a new perspective (to us) on the complexities and benefits of preserving historic buildings and towns, making it another great session at the Southern Legislative Conference.
To make the experience even better, we had the opportunity to speak with Senator Nelson and Mr. Sprague following the event. Senator Nelson, showing the kind of constituent service that has helped him win reelection since 2010 in West Virginia, helped us with our plans in Charleston, WV for the following day.
Following a day full of learning, we had an evening full of activities–some for everyone. We began by taking the scenic route to The Greenbrier, which involved going to the Herns Mill Covered Bridge, one of many such historic structures in West Virginia.
To divert ourselves for a bit, we sent Chrissy into the one-lane bridge. We figured if a car came from the other direction, we could see how fast Chrissy was capable of running in high heels. Just our luck, though, no car came through.
Consequently, we had to take her to The Greenbrier, where the SLC, in creating Family Night, had something on tap for everyone.
For Chrissy, we had smores.
Cinthia, meanwhile, summoned her inner Lizzie Borden, and she ventured into axe-throwing for the first time.
This proved to be a popular sport among the group, and Professor Yawn noted, with some concern, that we could be pretty accurate when motivated.
Olivia proved to be the marksman with a bow and arrow. She managed kill shots in two of the three targets, earning her the moniker, “Killer in High Heels.”
She displayed greater fear, however, when confronted with a live animal.
Michelle, on the other hand, was the Dr. Doolittle of the group…
…and the falconry proved popular, being the only activity every member of the group engaged in.
Cinthia, however, seemed to have the most fun with it.
When we weren’t fiddling around with animals or weapons, we took advantage of the opportunity to see expert fiddler and West Virginia native Philip Bowen, who has earned praise from NPR and other national media for his authentic sound and bow virtuosity.
And what would a Southern Legislative Conference be without hearing from a legislator? This year, we again heard from West Virginia Speaker Roger Hanshaw…
…who welcomed everyone to the conference, spoke of things to come, and helped us feel at home–in a very nice home.
And, reflecting on a day that saw us go to Carnegie Hall, rub shoulders with legislators, throw axes, serve as a perch to a falcon, shoot arrows, and enjoy smores, we headed back to our hotel (a Holiday Inn) to find some rest before another busy day.
Our group’s arrival in Pittsburgh for the Southern Legislative Conference marked the beginning of an enriching journey through art, culture, and history. Eager to delve into the city’s offerings, we kicked off our exploration at the renowned Carnegie Museum of Art.
Our visit to the Carnegie Museum of Art was a journey through time and artistic expression, a tapestry woven with modern marvels and timeless classics. As we entered the galleries, we were greeted by a vibrant array of contemporary artworks that challenged our perceptions and sparked our imaginations.
With familiar artists such as Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, Vincent Van Gogh, and Isamu Noguchi, our group was fully immersed in the Museum’s collection.
Cinthia and I found a familiar touchstone in Georgia O’Keeffe’s painting of an adobe church. Having recently visited New Mexico, where these structures dot the landscape, we were transported back to the sun-drenched vistas and rugged beauty of the Southwest. O’Keeffe’s ability to capture the essence of these structures resonated deeply with us, bridging our past experiences with the present moment.
In contrast to the contemporary pieces, the hall of Greek sculptures offered a glimpse into ancient mythology and classical beauty. Among the serene depictions of gods and goddesses, one sculpture stood out—a modern twist on antiquity. An oversized figure sat casually, engrossed in a smartphone, a stark commentary on contemporary culture.
The contrast between the timeless marble and the modern device held a mirror to our society’s evolving relationship with technology.
As we explored further, we encountered the dynamic works of Stanton MacDonald-Wright, whose vibrant compositions danced with color and rhythm. His mastery of synchromism, a style he co-founded, brought a sense of harmony and movement to the canvas, captivating us with its energy and vitality.
However, it was in the surreal and unexpected that we found our deepest connections. René Magritte’s “The Spirit of Family” challenged us to confront the discomfort of recognizing the familiar in the unfamiliar, echoing themes of surrealism that provoke and intrigue. For me, surrealism isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about delving into the subconscious, where dreams and reality merge in unexpected ways.
Not far behind, Michelle, with her unwavering love for Impressionism, led us straight to the Monet Lilies, where she stood in awe of their ethereal beauty. Her eyes gleamed with admiration as she traced the delicate brushstrokes that brought Monet’s gardens to life.
Cinthia, on the other hand, found herself captivated by Renoir’s “The Garden in the Rue Cortot, Montmartre.” The painting’s vibrant hues and tranquil atmosphere transported us to a serene Parisian afternoon, where we could almost feel the warmth of the sun and smell the fragrant flowers.
Our journey took an unexpected turn when I almost missed Francis Bacon’s haunting painting. Titled simply but evocatively, Bacon’s work captured the raw intensity of human emotion in a way that both unsettled and captivated us. It was a poignant reminder of the power art holds to provoke and stir our innermost thoughts.
As we wandered through the museum’s corridors, each artwork seemed to tell a story, inviting us to unravel its mysteries and absorb its messages. From Degas’ delicate sculptures to the bold strokes of Francis Bacon, every piece sparked conversations that ranged from artistic techniques to philosophical musings on life and existence.
Our visit wasn’t just about admiring famous names on canvas—it was a journey of discovery, where we uncovered new passions and deepened our appreciation for the artists who shaped the course of art history. The Carnegie Museum of Art became more than a collection of paintings; it became a sanctuary of inspiration and contemplation.
As we bid farewell to the museum, our hearts and minds brimmed with newfound insights and shared experiences. The day had been a celebration of friendship, curiosity, and the enduring power of art to provoke thought and stir emotions. It was a reminder that amidst our hectic lives, moments of cultural exploration with friends are not just enriching but essential for nurturing our souls.
The Carnegie Museum of Art had not only expanded our artistic horizons but had also reinforced the bonds of friendship that drew us together. It had ignited a passion for creativity and a hunger for knowledge, leaving us eagerly anticipating our next adventure in the world of art and culture.
Ambassadors enjoy a Warhol Self-Portrait at Carnegie, in anticipation of the Warhol Museum
Next, we ventured to the Cathedral of Learning, an architectural marvel at the University of Pittsburgh.
Its Gothic spires soared above us as we explored the intricately designed commons area.
It was a beautiful building, one that reminded us that the architecture can play a large role in education and receptivity to learning.
Exploring Art and Nature at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden
Our recent visit to the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden was a delightful blend of art, nature, and learning.
As we stepped into the conservatory, we were immediately greeted by the mesmerizing Goldenrod, Teal, and Citron Chandelier, which hung magnificently from the dome of the welcome center. This stunning piece by Dale Chihuly set the tone for the rest of our visit, showcasing his extraordinary talent in manipulating glass into captivating forms and colors.
Wandering through the various rooms and pathways, we encountered several other Chihuly installations that added vibrant and artistic touches to the already beautiful garden setting. The delicate Cattails and the bold, colorful Paint Brushes were among the many pieces that stood out, each one enhancing the lush greenery and floral displays around them. Chihuly’s art, with its intricate designs and brilliant hues, created a magical atmosphere that enriched our visit.
Beyond the captivating glasswork, the conservatory was a botanical wonderland teeming with life. We found ourselves surrounded by hundreds of different plants and flowers, each adding to the garden’s rich tapestry of colors and scents.
One of the most thrilling parts of our visit was exploring the Butterfly Forest. This enchanting area allowed us to witness a variety of butterfly species fluttering around, creating a truly magical ambiance. The Monarch and Zebra Longwing butterflies were particularly memorable, their vibrant colors and delicate wings adding a sense of whimsy and wonder to the experience.
Adding to the enchantment, we encountered many beautiful flowing fountains, fish, and other creatures crafted entirely out of flowers and plants.
As we continued our journey, we discovered the Orchid Room, a space dedicated to the stunning diversity of orchid species. This room was a feast for the senses, with an array of beautiful orchids in every imaginable color and shape adorning the space. Some of our favorite species were the Vanda Orchid and the Lady Slipper Orchids.
Overall, our visit to the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden was both fun and educational.
We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the beautiful gardens, marveling at Chihuly’s art, and learning more about the diverse plant species.
Max’s Allegheny Tavern
Energized by our cultural immersion, we savored traditional German-inspired cuisine at Max’s Allegheny Tavern. The quaint charm of the restaurant was evident from the moment we walked in, with its cozy ambiance accentuated by adorable lamp shades casting a warm glow.
As a newbie to German food, Michelle and Cinthia were eager to try some of the region’s specialties. The potato pancakes were a revelation, crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, served with applesauce for a perfect blend of flavors. The bratwurst was hearty and satisfying, accompanied by tangy sauerkraut that complemented its savory goodness. And who could forget the schnitzel? Tender and perfectly breaded, it melted in my mouth with every bite.
Overall, Max’s Allegheny Tavern surpassed my expectations, not just with its delicious dishes but also with its inviting atmosphere. It’s definitely a place we hope to return to for more culinary adventures
Duquesne Incline
Visiting Pittsburgh for the first time was an unforgettable experience, made even more magical by a ride on the Duquesne Incline. As the sun set, we boarded the historic cable car that ascended Mount Washington. The city’s skyline, illuminated against the darkening sky, unfolded before me in a breathtaking display of lights and architecture. It was a view that truly encapsulated Pittsburgh’s charm and beauty.
The incline itself, with its rich history dating back to the late 19th century, added a sense of nostalgia to the journey. Originally built to transport workers up and down the steep hillside, today it serves as both a historic landmark and a beloved tourist attraction.
The weather that evening was perfect—a cool breeze complemented by a clear sky—making the experience even more enjoyable. Arriving at the summit, I found myself surrounded by panoramic views of Pittsburgh’s twinkling lights and shimmering rivers. It was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery in a city that had already captured my heart.
The Duquesne Incline not only provided a literal and metaphorical high point of my Pittsburgh visit but also set the stage for a day filled with new experiences and cherished memories.
Andy Warhol Museum
Being in Pittsburgh for the first time has been a fantastic experience; from the weather to the beautiful architecture, it has all been breathtaking. The variety of new foods from Max’s Tavern was an adventure, preparing us for the sensory feast at the museum. Our latest adventure took us to the Andy Warhol Museum, blending art, history, and personal discovery. Having recently watched a documentary on Warhol, I was particularly excited to see his artistic evolution across the museum’s seven floors.
The Andy Warhol Museum takes visitors on a chronological journey through Warhol’s life and work, from his early years on the top floor to the final years of his prolific career on the ground floor. This layout allowed us to see the progression of his style and the expansion of his artistic repertoire in a way that felt like stepping through a living biography.
On the top floor, we were introduced to Warhol’s early life, trying to identify him in old-school photos. This personal touch made the experience more intimate. Warhol’s early commercial art, including his advertisements and product illustrations, hinted at his future as a leading figure in pop art.
Descending the floors, we encountered various works, from his famous Campbell’s Soup Cans to his iconic Brillo Boxes.
We marveled at his silkscreen technique, which he used to create the vibrant Marilyn Monroe series and the striking Elvis Presley prints. Seeing these pieces up close highlighted the bold colors and repetitive patterns that defined his style.
One of the most playful parts was the Silver Clouds room, filled with giant, reflective silver balloons. We could not resist gently pushing them around, feeling the air lift them up.
Before leaving, Cinthia, Olivia, and I took pictures on the museum’s famous red couch, a nod to Warhol’s studio. Connecting the documentary insights with the exhibits added depth to our visit, making it a memorable chapter in our Pittsburgh adventure.
Reflecting on our enriching day, Pittsburgh emerged not only as a city of steel and industry but also as a vibrant cultural hub. Each visit—from the Carnegie Museum’s artistic splendors to the Cathedral of Learning’s educational marvels, Max’s Allegheny Tavern’s culinary delights, the Duquesne Incline’s panoramic views, and the Andy Warhol Museum’s artistic legacy—contributed to a deeper appreciation of Pittsburgh’s diverse and dynamic character. As our journey with the Southern Legislative Conference continues, Pittsburgh remains an inspiring destination where art, culture, and history converge to create lasting memories for all who visit.
As we prepare for the next leg of our Southern Legislative Conference trip, Pittsburgh a highlight of our trip—a city where art, history, and culture converge to create an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Following a grueling morning of competition and a light afternoon of sessions…
…we headed out to tour the Rio Grande Valley. Accordingly, we traveled through Brownsville, to Harlingen, into McAllen, and to Edinburg, TX. Of course, with some hikes and adventures before us, we felt it necessary to arm up with coffee and ice cream…
After a challenging competition, we sought solace in the natural beauty of the Rio Grande Valley’s parks. Our first destination, Hugh Ramsey Nature Park, introduced me to this vibrant region and marked my second hike with LEAP since last spring’s memorable time with the City Fellows at Eastham Thomason Park. It was a journey filled with delightful encounters with unfamiliar bird species, lizards, and butterflies, each adding to the day’s sense of discovery.
As we ventured along the trails, Yajaira’s keen eye caught sight of a Texas Spiny Lizard—a master of disguise amidst the flora. Its small size and effective camouflage made it difficult for us to spot even with her guidance.
Throughout our walk, the vibrant Green Jays stole the show with their emerald-green body and striking blue facial features. I found myself captivated by their beauty and unique behaviors.
Among the most memorable moments was our encounter with a Chachalaca, a large, completely brown bird that confidently strutted along the pathway, affording us a rare close-up view.
Later, another of its kind revealed itself nestled discreetly among the trees!
Our wildlife observations extended beyond bird species, including bunnies hopping along the path.
Additionally, the trails were filled with numerous butterflies…
…fluttering alongside impressively large dragonflies….
…and we saw the occasional water bird, including Black Bellied Whistling Ducks.
We also took shots of the Valley’s interesting flora, including a triangle cactus…
…an aloe plant of some sort (suggestions welcome!)…
…and a sulphur butterfly on a white flower…
Perhaps the best shot of the day came from Cinthia, who captured a Buff Bellied Hummingbird “eating” at a Turk’s Cap flower.
Estero Llano Grande State Park
Excited to explore another park, we made our way to Estero Llano Grande State Park. We spotted two park rangers gathered around a table with a container on it as we approached the entrance. Upon closer inspection, we realized it contained a tarantula! The rangers explained that they found it in the parking lot and placed it in the container to ensure its safety. Personally, not being a fan of spiders, I opted to keep my distance…
As we began walking into the trails, one of the first sights that caught our attention was a multi-family bird dwelling! I discovered that the species, the Purple Martin, often inhabits these man-made houses to build their nests. The structure was vibrant and quite charming. Stephanie elaborated on how these birds prefer such homes, which are frequently provided for them.
A House Sparrow “Squatting” in a Purple Martin Home
The prospect of encountering alligators along the Alligator Trail, mentioned by Professor Yawn, filled Olivia, Cinthia, and me with a mix of excitement and apprehension.
Walking cautiously by the river, we kept a respectful distance from the water’s edge. Despite our concerns, we were delighted to spot a baby alligator lurking in the water!
Naturally, our next question was about the whereabouts of its mother…
As we reached the expansive deck overlooking Ibis Pond, we settled in for a moment to take it all in. It was a serene conclusion to our time in South Padre, blending relaxation with learning. I cherished the opportunity to reflect quietly with the group, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.
Palo Duro Canyon is sometimes boastfully referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” and that’s not really fair to the Grand Canyon. But taken on its own, it is in fact a grand and beautiful adventure.
LEAP Ambassadors on the Lighthouse Trail, 2018
The LEAP Ambassadors have traveled to Palo Duro twice, once in 2018, and again in January of this year. It was my first trip to a State Park!
It was beautiful, and I enjoyed the activity, the beauty, and the idea that the State is preserving these areas for the use of all.
The best shot I was able to get was when we were returning from the CCC Trail, just before sunset. It was a beautiful short hike, one where I also learned about the Civilian Conservation Corps–part of FDR’s Works Progress Administration.
What struck me most, though, was the beauty. And as we were heading back, I saw this beautiful view, with Professor Yawn and Stephanie hiking and providing a sense of scale, and I got the image!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 