All the kids have arrived and are ready for an amazing adventure!

July 7

Yesterday, being our first full day in Dzita, we got a chance to meet the local staff- who will be taking care of us for the next two weeks. We also had a chance to familiarize ourselves with each other, as well as the town.
Today, we got to start our service project of compost toilet construction building and got to meet the families we will be impacting for generations to come. Construction in a rural African village is just as difficult as it sounds, but rewarding- especially when the family’s kids, whose lives you are changing are watching you with wide eyes. After service, we had another amazing meal followed by some free time where most of us rode in a canoe in the lagoon that’s the replacement for the harsh ocean located directly on our base. We got to learn a lot about each other through an activity where we got to “tell our story” with no restrictions. After dinner, we had a lesson in the local language called Ewe. The end of the day found us exhausted from an amazing start to a very promising trip!

— Aaron and Madi

July 8

Today was our second day of compost toilet building! We cut iron for the foundation and mixed cement to fill the base. Then on our way back to home base it started pouring, which was good timing since we had finished working, but our open roof vehicles pelted us with rain and we arrived home soaking wet. Since we were already soaked, all 11 of us (plus all our mentors) ran and lept into the lagoon. Then we came inside for a hardy lunch of wraps and Maddie had water, Carson had Pear flavor Ghanaian soda, Sophia had Passionfruit Ghanaian soda, Aidan had a Fanta (he thought it was “Really good!”), Genevieve had Pear flavor Ghanaian soda, Allie had Papa’s Special drink, Femi had water, Jasmine had Papa’s Special Drink (she said, “Very refreshing”, Aaron had Fanta (Aaron had “No Comment), Alanah had water, and Daniel had Coke. Then, THE CHIEF ARRIVED. The chief gave us lots of sage advice. Our biggest take away was that when your wife is on her menstrual cycle, make sure you get another wife to cook you dinner. Then we finished our Life Stories and had a group hug. All in all, A+ day.

Xoxo Genevieve, Aidan, and Allie

July 9
Today we continued building the compost toilets, adding five new layers of concrete blocks to the structures. At one of the sites, we found a dead frog and also saw a chicken get slaughtered. It was very sunny today. After service and lunch we visited the Keta Slave Fort. It was a very “humbling” and “powerful” experience. We were able to see the different components to the Slave fort and learn more about the history of slaves along the West African Coast. Today was also Danyaal’s 16th birthday and we experienced a traditional Ghanaian Birthday celebration in which he was splashed by the staff with water and flour. We also enjoyed a delicious birthday treat consisting of ice cream and banana cake. We also experienced our first bucket showers tonight because the water was shut off. It was quite an interesting experience and one we will always remember.

– Alanah, Jasmine, and Sophia

July 10

Today we worked on finishing our 8-layer foundation of our toilets. Allie fell into the hole from which we dug sand from twice. After lunch, we went to the local health clinic, where we were given a tour. It was very interesting to see how different a clinic here works as opposed to one in America. Femi volunteered to get tested for malaria as a demonstration of a common test here in Ghana (luckily, he’s malaria-free). Then, the group proceeded to go to Auntie’s- a local seamstress- to get measured for our custom clothing that we will get later in the week. There was a baby goat by Auntie’s that Genevieve was obsessed with. A nurse from the community came to address the group about health-related issues in the Dzita-Abledomi region. She recognized (and interrogated) Madi from last year. Following our visit from the nurse, we ate dinner. Then, some of us went on a short canoe ride- on which Aaron sang Willy Wonka songs. Our last activity was a very enlightening public health workshop taught by one of the local directors, Graeme. We finished off the day with a very competitive game of mafia and went to bed ready for another day of hard work.

-Madi and Aaron

July 11

Today we woke up and had a breakfast that consisted of toast, eggs, and fruit. It was also our fifth day at the service site, and we had to plaster the walls of the toilet chamber and finish building the steps for the entrance. We had a lesson on “Flicking 101” which is the appropriate technique used for getting the mortar on the walls. However, I think we got more on ourselves than on the walls. We came back, ate lunch, and then had some free time. Today, that was also known as nap time. After that we had some local drummers and dancers come and perform several traditional African dances. We had a late dinner, and then we watched a TED Talk about sanitation, which was really eye opening. We had a discussion about the video and how we can make an impact when we get home.

-Allie, Carson & Femi

July 12

So today was our day off from service work where we got to recuperate for our days ahead. We had pancakes and juice for breakfast and then some people went swimming and others went on a canoe ride. Later in the day we all participated in doing journal entry where we were tasked with what one of our favorite aspects of Ghana was so far. Surprisingly enough, the overwhelming majority said “the people”. We all have a common respect and love for the friendliness and genuine nature of the Ghanian people. They are always excited to talk to us and welcome us wherever we travel, regardless of the fact that we are complete strangers. The trust and kindness that they have is something we are all very aware of and are hoping to integrate into our own culture back home.

Xoxo,
Aidan, Sophia, Genevieve

July 14th, 2017
Today we continued to work on our compost toilets everyone is almost finished building toilets, we painted and added tiling to the floor. We came back and ate lunch. At around 2:30 we went to a local school and played games with the kids there. It was truly a beautiful sight to see the luminous smiles on all of their faces while they ran from us, tagged us, and yelled “Yavoo! Yavoo!” Which essentially means white person. Briefly after that we all came back to the lodge and the majority of us took a shower to get ready for dinner. After dinner we had a very deep talk about self love and once again as a group we are more connected.

With Love

Femi

July 15th, 2017

Instead of compost toilet construction this morning we went to the park in Dzita where some of us played soccer while the rest of us played with local kids who followed us there.  When we got back to the lodge we went for a swim in the lagoon where some of us formed a synchronized swimming team (we were amazing).  Next we went on a boat trip down the Volta river, during the ride some local musicians played and sang traditional Ghanaian songs for us.  We made a stop during the trip where we played frisbee and soccer on the beach.  After dinner we decided that our thank you to the staff for all there amazing work would be a dub of the song “Despacito” so we created and practiced it.  To finish off our day some of us sat and looked at the beautiful Ghanaian night sky.

-Aaron

July 18, 2017

Today, our last full day in Ghana; we had some fun. This morning we got to sleep in a little longer than earlier and had breakfast at 8. Which was followed by the Opening Ceremony of the Compost Toilets. We all went to Jasper’s toilet first and we demonstrated how to use the toilet, how to properly wash their hands after going, and how to change the compost. We then traveled down the road to Balo’s compost toilet, followed by Boots’. We all took several pictures with the families and played with the kids before heading back to Meet Me There. When we got back it was time for lunch. We were all STARVING, but lunch wasn’t ready yet. It eventually came and we were all happily surprised that it was FRIES (our favorite thing to eat!!), Thai coconut salad, and grilled chicken!!! After lunch we had some free time before our afternoon activity which consisted of a cooking class with Justine (we made RedRed and fried plantains) and then we walked across the street to Atsu’s farm land and we all got to try hoeing and learned about some of the vegetables he grows. Then we had some free time until dinner was served. Dinner had come and we had rice, Red Red, fried plantains, and salad. Then it was time to preform our “talent show” for the staff. We had written a song several days ago to the music of Despacito that we sang on the stage. Next up was individual group (work groups) performances. The staff and kiddos then took pictures. It was BONFIREEEEEEE TIME. We walked to the other side of the lagoon, and danced and sang. When we came back to the other side, we hung out some. Our plan is to pull an all nighter since two of our peeps are leaving at 3:30 (am) for the airport. Since then, we’ve played games, made a sand castle, had a granola bar party and sang songs. See you guys soon!

~Carson & Allie~

Everyone arrived safe and sound to home base. Now for our first Ghanaian meal and some R&R!

Ghana VS. USA

Ghana and the United States specifically the parts that I am familiar with make for an interesting comparison.

An example of a difference between the two is how people react to and hald, death. From my experience I believe Americans have sad tear jerking funerals with family and friends. However Ghanaians throw happy, loud funerals with drums and dancing. In Ghana death results in a celebration of the dead’s life. The difference between how two cultures deal with  the same event fascinates me. Also, I have noticed that Americans are much less resourceful than Ghanaians. IN the USA we drink a bottle for water then throw it away, package candy individually just for convenience, shower for way too long, and leave the TV running all day. In Ghana the water bottles are reused, water conserved and TV turned off to save electricity. Us Americans tend to take our resources for granted. Ghana and the USA also have similarities, arguably more than differences. They sare values like caring for family and working hard, They also both take proud in their environment and the nature around them. Furthermore, both have an emphasis on community and socializing with others individually, My trip to Gita, Ghana from Seattle, USA has taught me that even countries which appear polar opposites have similarities that overpower their differences.

-Joy Francke

Jasper is a beast. Never have I met someone who can do hard work at the rate he does. Known as, “Amega” (boss man), Jasper leads Danesh, Rain and I to glory as we come closer to finishing the compost toilet for the community. After hours of working as beads of sweat rolled down Jasper’s face, I begged him to take a break, but he refused, and continued to lead a one-man show. His determination and commitment to finishing the project is inspiring. He motivates us all through his intense as fiery spirit,  his forgiving and accepting attitude,  and his occasional goofy dancing, to be leaders and better people. Jasper never gives up, never gives in, and never breaks down. His generosity of spirit and laughter has drawn everyone from the work site to him, and continues to amaze me day after day. Jasper truly is a beast.

– Jed

Though lacking monetary wealth the people of Ghana are wealthy in ways first world citizens do not often experience. My first experience with Ghanaians was on the plane ride to Accra. The plane filled with people who carried US passports the proud name of Ghana, was the most pleasant flight I have ever taken. The passengers were kind in helping me a young solo flyer, and enthusiastic in our landing on the beautiful country. SInce this landing, I have met all kinds of people, each unique in many ways but similar in the joyful, kind hearted demeanor. Walking down the street, children sing to us, “Yavv Yavv Gaibo”, and adults staff greetings, “Mia Werzo”. The staff go out of their way to make every student comfortable. Though with a language barrier, some people might be quick to give up on communication, I have yet to meet a Ghanian that did not at least five me an enthusiastic wave. The people here in Ghana are never to busy to exchange a friendly smile and a humble greeting. The people of Ghana are what I will miss the most about this beautiful country.

In the first few days of our adventure to Ghana we have all grown in multiple ways. From Jed’s stomach growing to our emotional strength becoming stronger we have all been changing on way or another in our time in Ghana. Today we visited a slave fort, a very narrowing experience. We learned about the horrors that slaves endured by the , first Dutch, then British, Keta slave fort. We also got to witness some pretty incredible thing at the slave fort as well. We saw and touched a whale’s vertebrae, we also saw a skeleton of a sea turtle. Our experience at the Keta SLave fort also gave us a different perspective to see the slave from. We were able to compare what we saw to how we heard about it and were taught about the Slave Trade in the USA. Over all the Keta slave fort xperience helped to deepen our understanding of Ghana and the slave trade. The experience helped us to grow  and more knowledgeable today and I am sure that this was not the last of our growths.

-Noah Steger

Ohhh Ghana… What do I say? After a 10 hour flight I entered your country with a tired mind, body, and soul. Nevertheless, I was awoken by your liveliness. As we hoped into the van we embarked on our first journey as a group. The ride from your airport in Accra to our homease in Deita was around 3 hours, As the wheels began to turn I felt myself began to turn I felt myself beginning to wake up. Immediately, I was embraced with warm smiles and waves only with the right hand of course that made me feel safe, welcomed home. I was told by our group mentor that here in Ghana you say hello and wave to those you pass, even from within a van, That here, taking that extra step to greet someone in not only expected and polite, but normal. Immediately I felt a smile spread across my face. I was safe, welcomed home. As we continued down the Ghanaian road, I was woken up by the views of everyday life… GOATS!!!! CHICKENS!!!! DOGS!!! All running, walking, lounging besides the road. Their BAA”s and Barks all adding to the mixtape of voices saying “welcome! You’re home!” My eyes became fixated on the street vendors, their products ranging from detailed colored clothing, to ground nuts. The women, men and children carried baskets on their heads filled with goods, fruit, and other necessities. I saw school kids, their faces lighting up with warm smiles as our van drove by. “YAHOO,  YAHOO, YAHOO!!” they would yell. We returned the smile and added on a wave. When we pulled into the “meet me there lodge” I was once again presented with the same loving feelings that the streets, vendors, people and of course the goats had given me. I was welcomed, safe, and home. I was finally fully awake.

One of the most memorable evening activities I experienced while in Ghana was the introduction to Ghana health care system given by a local nurse named ROse. We learned the structure of the healthcare system beginning with a local hospital director, then a district director, regional director and the head of the system is the director general. The director general supervises all the medications coming into Ghana and the regional director. The regional director oversees the district director and the district director supervises all the local hospitals in the district.

The health care system also dictates when hospitals an injured person would go to. Local hospitals only take care of minor injuries and childbirths and mainly carry basic medication. At the district level most broken bones can be placed in casts and more serious injuries can be treated. Only D hospitals in Ghana can handle and treat almost all injuries. These hospitals are also given stronger medication that can only be prescribed by doctors.

Another interesting part of the lesson were the similarities  between vaccinations in the US and Ghana. For example polio, MMR, Typhoid and Turnus vaccinations are given in both countries. However, Ghana also gives a yellow fever vaccine with the MMR. I was most surprised by the fact that until a child turns 3 years old all the vaccinations given at birth until 9 months are free. Learning how the health system works made me want to know about my own country’s. I also think learning about the levels of organisation in the health system  and similar vaccinations made me realize that regardless of a country’s economic status they can still provide an adequate health system

-Rain

July 1, 2017

Ahhhhh! 31 hours away via aircraft! The thought of Ghana! Given the once in a lifetime opportunity to leave home for Ghana, scary right?! Though the decision to leave summer vacation for a two week hiatus in Ghana may be difficult, the experience is exhilarating! The food, the country, the people are all bad! WRONG! Complete opposite! The food is amazing, the country is magnificent, and the people are the real MVP’s. The decision to come to Ghana has been one of the best in my life. The excursions and the service work all make make this trip worthwhile. This once in a lifetime adventure is one I will never forget. All the talk about Africa being unclean, disease ridden, and unsafe, is a bunch of garbage. It feels as if you’re on the best tropical vacation of your life. In the night you hear the whistling , soothing waves, and hushing of . Truly the best. The thought of leaving home for Meet Me There may be tough, but the good people are welcoming and truly care for you. Giving back to the world is one of the greatest ways to achieve happiness. Ghana is wonderful, from the people to the environment to the culture. You would not regret the decision to come here! “Ahhhhh!” is just a temporary feeling which leads to a permanent feeling of happiness and fulfillment.

– Danesh

 

8/4/2017 

8/17/2017

The final few students are on their way to the airport, most of the group is arriving to the USA and their families momentarily and, finally, it is time to close up the summer in the Galápagos.

Session 4 and all its wonderful, hard working, thoughtful and entertaining students was the perfect way to cap off an extraordinary experience in the islands.

Thank you to every student that made this session so memorable and thank you to all the families, friends and loved ones that made this trip possible.

From the entire Galápagos team, thanks for an awesome session!

-Suzannah

Everyone made it! After a long day of travel and multiple delayed flights, everyone was finally in bed by 2am.

7/20/2016
Suzannah Crandall

Orientation, a winged virgin, traipsing along the cobblestone streets of Quito, a golden church and a chocolate making lesson were all highlights of our first full day together in Ecuador.

After sleeping in a bit this morning, we launched into exploring everyone’s expectations for the next two weeks and reviewing expectations for the trip.  After a delicious lunch at home base, we headed up the hill (literally) and took in an impressive view of the city from the balcony at the Panecillo.  Our next stop was to the Compañía de Jesus church which is famous for its golden walls and incredible carvings.  Finally, we satisfied our sweet tooth with some ice cream and some hand made chocolate.  After dinner, we capped off the evening by talking about how to incorporate leadership skills into everyday acts of leadership and doing final packing.
We will be up early to head for the islands so its off to bed.  More to come very soon…

July 21st, 2017

Authors: Adrián Clayton and Zoe Camporaso

7/24/2017

Harry Katz and Alice Nobles

Today’s adventure was a trip to the tortoise breeding center on Isabella Island where we saw tortoises of all ages, from babies to ancient tortoises. Later in the day we climbed Volcan Sierra Negra where we watched clouds roll over the caldera.

7/25/2017

Jayden Lyon

Hannah gold

Today we went to a school and repainted it. We took breaks to play soccer with the kids. We then took the bus back to the hotel to have lunch. We walked to the beach after lunch. There we learned about evolution and Charles Darwin. In addition, we played a game where we got to create our own organism and its characteristics. Then we swam in the ocean and tanned. Afterwards, We were given the option to walk around town or hangout at the hotel.

Hey there from Quito!
All of our group have arrived safely with a few flight delays along the way which left everyone pretty tired. Today we learned about our programme and are about to set off and explore Quito. Will keep you posted!

-Eimear, International Director

July 12, 2017

After spending two days in Quito we said adiós to mainland Ecuador and continued our journey to the archipelago known as the Galápagos. Most of today was spent traveling, we started our day at 5am and headed for the airport and flew to Isla Baltra. Once we arrived we took a small boat to Isla Santa Cruz and then hopped on a bus for an informational ride to our next boat. The boat ride was long and fun for most of the campers but made a few sick. We eveintually arrived at Isla Isabela where we immediately were immersed in wild life such as large iguanas and friendly sea lions. The animals on the islands are not bothered by the people whatsoever and is reminiscent of something out of National Geographic. We settled into our hotel and took a small tour of the town and watched a beautiful sunset on the beach and ate a delicious meal. We are all looking forward to the rest of our journey and service and will continue to keep you updated.

-Spencer McNeely

July13, 2017

We woke up at 7 and had breakfast and went on a walk to the wetlands where we saw iguanas and saw sea lions in the water. We went swimming just a few feet away from a few sea lions in a pool that was part fresh water and part salt water. We also walked into a dark cave that was filled with water. We walked back and had lunch at the hotel and then we went to service in Campo Duro. We worked on getting rid of invasive species for the tortoises in the reservation. We pulled weeds and cut down trees to make space for the plants that the tortoises feed on. After service we played soccer with our group and then we came to back to the hotel to eat dinner before having mentor groups and going to bed.
Grace H and Grant

July 7th, 2017

Today we were awoken by some lovely outdoor noises including a rooster with a set of lungs and lots of construction. After breakfast the group went to a school to repaint it. We had to sand the walls and exterminate all cob webs, which Alek took control of due to being 6’5″. Then we started painting both the inside and the outside of the story room. Afterwards, we played soccer with the local students and drove them home. After lunch, we went in groups to the beach and to explore the town- everyone had a wonderful time playing in the waves and spending money (sorry mom). Later we played a soccer game against the best local team. The first game against people of similar age resulted in our failure, however we did succeed in beating the 10 year olds. We then returned to home base for a home cooked meal and ended our day on the terrace.

~ Alek & Sammi

We woke up our peers with a motivating message-crazy frog, the most inspiring song in the whole world. Once everyone had arisen, we began our joruney with a healthy & nutritious breakfast. Fueled up & ready to rumble, the youngin’s put on their life jackets & hopped on in that water. As they drifted together using the buddy system, they safely maneuvered through the crystal clear waters of the galapagos. They encountered many new aquatic beings, including but not limited to sea lions, turtles, reef sharks, fish, penguins, & the occasional wild tourist drifting around with their gopros. Once we were all tuckered out, we began our treck back to the tortoise sanctuary-who had some bomb lemonde may I add. As the leaders of the day Hailey & Abigail supported their family by reminding them to HYDRATE & reapply sunscreen. Even though yesterdays leaders were very negative towards our methods of leading-they eventually appreciated our ways and took notes in case they were ever leaders again. We peacefully hand over our torch to Lily & Grace D. who will also be better than Nicholas Robert Daniel Triggs & Isidoro Anderson John Giles Bento.

July 19, 2017

After a long 2 hour boat ride to Floreana from Isabella island consisting of massive waves and nauseas stomachs, then snorkeling in crystal clear waters, while some decided to bask in the sun on the black sand beaches. While snorkeling, our group encountered lots of sea turtles. After staying at floreana for 2 and a half hours, we then set off for San cristobal island. After arriving at San Cristobal, our group had the opportunity to explore the town for an hour. Then We took a bus to our hotel in the highlands!

Grace D and Lilly

(There is very low connectivity, it will get better in the coming days. More pictures soon)

Day 10:

Day 10 arrived with the induction of Kate Uray and Colee Zheng as GLA leaders of the day. They were immediately inducted into the hall of fame for being some bomb leaders. We started off our morning at 6:15 am and woke up our fellow GLA members to nurturing care and unconditional love. Being the dynamic duo we are, Kate gave out caramel candies to people that answered the wake up call while Colee pillaged the rest of the group with the endless supply of horse poop she gathered from the service hikes. We had a beautiful breakfast of banana pancakes, toast, cereal, granola and fruit (all imported from the Galápagos Islands). Some people opted for the alternative of downing the entire Nestle hot chocolate package, but hey, we don’t judge.

In order to get to service, we trekked up the side of a mountain range in our sneakers and hiking boots that we wore on the bus. As we descended the steps of the bus, each of us grabbed a machete and a plant to later be planted in the shape of the GLA Leaders of the Days faces. Working swiftly, we de-mossed and cleared around 20 trees. Finally, the rest of the group put on their work gloves and joined in. After being encompassed by the amazing mountain top view, our service ended with a hike down towards the lodge followed by a delicious lunch consisting of popcorn drizzled with soup, rice, lentils, salad, and something that wasn’t vegan.

We then brushed up on our extensive knowledge of Galapagonean Evolution (?) by visiting a museum that was on the same path as our snorkeling spot. Although the best GLA Leaders of the Day have a reputation of being punctual, we decided to allot some of our time so that the group could enjoy a gorgeous view of the endless ocean horizon and the docks of San Cristobal.

Snorkeling was especially risky but nothing was too much for the GLA Leaders. Always putting our team before us, we individually carried each GLA member down the slippy stairs and into the water where we spotted sea lions, sea turtles, and schools of fish.

We then walked into town where people were allowed to shop for souvenirs or dine at San Cristobals finest restaurants. After a long day, the grind had to come to a stop with a delicious, generous dinner provided by the La Soledad staff accompanied by an adorable, friendly dog.

After dinner, Colee stayed at home base cause the grind never ends. Meanwhile, Kate valiantly went out to represent her state at a soccer tournament with those daring enough to play. Shane and Nick were given the honor of team captains and split the teams up. Shane was lucky enough to have the opportunity to play with Kate on his team. Her rock solid defense even earned her the nickname “The Great Wall of New Jersey”. A few of the locals tried to face her, joining the teams. Alas, they failed like all the others. Feeling pity and caught up in the beautiful view of the Galapagos, Kate decided to let Nick’s team score the last goal and win (though the score will clearly indicate Shane/Kate’s team the victors).

Back at base, Kate bravely fought off every bug scheming in the GLA members room. What a gal. After the best day of the trip so far for everyone, Kate and Colee handed their crown off the Liza and Melissa. History will remember this.

Day 12

Even though we were still mourning the loss of Abi’s spider babies, we made the best out of day 11. We started off the day with a new meal: ham and cheese sandwiches for our 7:00 breakfast. After breakfast, we had a workshop. We began by watching an eye-opening documentary about the effects of plastics in this age and on future generations. Diana and Eimear set up a “Shark Tank” activity where we were put in groups and presented ideas about how we could solve the problem of plastic. When we finished the activity, we went to tree nursery at home base for service. Some people set up planting stations, some prepared soil for the trees, others watered the plants, and we all helped move them in the end. It was a smooth process over all, with a few bumps along the way in the form of spiders. After a quick pasta lunch, we headed to the beach, where most tanned alongside countless sea lions and a few swam with sea turtles.

After about an hour, everyone headed into town, and people split up to get food, shop for souvenirs, and explore the town. Most met up around 5:30 at an amazing donut shop to try the famous caramel filled chocolate glazed donuts, which were cheap and delicious. At 5:45, we took a bus back to home base for a barbecue dinner! Dinner today was the most unique because everybody got to split one big Galapa-lobster. After everyone settled after dinner, we gathered around a bonfire and each person shared one of their favorite memories from the trip. After all the laughs and nostalgia, our awesome mentors surprised us with s’mores! Sadly, we had to end today with packing and wrapping up our time on the islands, but everyone has lots of great memories to bring home!

-Melissa and Eliza

July 21st

Today wasn’t much of an eventful day. After many mixed emotions, the group reluctantly yet cheerfully departed from our spider and bug infested hotel. After last night’s bonfire, many of us cherished the memories we shared on the islands as we walked from the terminal gate to the plane outside, and set off on our voyage back to the capital of Ecuador. Our time together is dwindling down, and as the first one to leave (with a flight at 1am on the 23rd), I can easily say relishing the time with my peers for the last time is a very difficult task. Though tomorrow is a new, exciting day adventuring throughout the streets of Quito, many of us dread the parting goodbyes of that night. However, we cannot forget that GLA has taught us not to dwell in the relics and memories of old adventures, but to smile for the stories we can cherish, and the beginning of new chapters. We do not cry because it is over, but smile because it happened.

Russell Wong