Saturday, June 22, 2013

STRI Panama - June 22; UPDATE: Flying home

Clockwise from top left: Kevin Cunningham '14 became a minor celebrity because he shares a last name with a family in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird that students had recently read; students pass through an open air courtyard at Brader school; the school motto, "Do good to all" in Latin; a banner seen at the school on Spirit Day
Cape Henry students have continued to have a great time during their Panamanian homestay experiences.  Friday was a Spirit Day at Colegio Brader as they prepared to support their school's American football team in the championship game on Saturday.  While fútbol (aka soccer) remains the most popular sport in Panama, American football has become a very popular sport at Colegio Brader. Many Cape Henry students and their hosts will be in attendance for this highly anticipated championship event.
Top: CHC students watch as Brader students practice traditional Panamanian dance; Middle: Hayley Greason '14 and Hlif Olafsdottir '14 don Panamanian pollera skirts to dance in; Brader students smile as Maddy Spear '14 learns from the instructor.
In addition, some of our CHC students had the opportunity to observe a class in traditional Panamanian dance offered after school at Colegio Brader. It was not long before they were asked to join in.  They had a great time learning the dances.
Clockwise from top left: Meredith Jennings '15; Collin Smith '14; Ethan Crawley '14; Lucy Willis '15 and Greer Lowenstein '15
More fun at dance class
Our group has had a fantastic two weeks in Panama. Students have been able to see tropical research and conservation efforts up close.  Many in our group have been inspired to consider future research and volunteer opportunities.  We have also gained a better understanding of Panamanian history and culture and made great new friends.  While it is tough to say goodbye to the wonderful people here, we are looking forward to getting home to our loved ones tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon!

Señor Willis was pulled onstage to join in a traditional Panamanian dance.
Clockwise from top left: The Panama City skyline at night; a sloth seen by our group; one of the inspirational messages written on the walls at Colegio Brader; Curtis Kirby '14 and Mr. Willis in Portobelo; Ms. Frasher and Mrs. Johnson enjoy a cup of coffee at Colegio Brader

SUNDAY MORNING UPDATE: We are all through security at the Panama City airport and should soon be boarding the flight to Atlanta!  Our final flight, Delta 2206, is scheduled to get in to Norfolk at 4:30 PM today.

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