Hello SEE Teamers -
I hope you get a chance to read through the blog now that you are home. How about this weather here in Chicago, huh? Feels refreshing, doesn't it?
I am really grateful for all of you for the hard work you did in LA. It was a fun trip and it was great to see you guys enjoying the experience, bonding with one another, jumping into the assigned work, and confirming the fact that RB students are awesome! You really should feel good about yourselves. You made me and the RBHS community proud.
Thanks! And enjoy summer!
Ms. W
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
At the airport
Hello from the New Orleans airport!
We are headed home. See ya soon!
Thanks to all of the students for working so hard and the parents for letting them attend such an awesome trip. I hope they realize what an impact they made!
-Ms. W
We are headed home. See ya soon!
Thanks to all of the students for working so hard and the parents for letting them attend such an awesome trip. I hope they realize what an impact they made!
-Ms. W
Headed home -
Good morning!
It is hard to believe that it is already Friday, our last day! We just had breakfast and are now headed off on the swamp tour!
I forgot to mention what we did for work yesterday -
We pulled out the "tallow tree," an invasive species in SE LA. The kids walked through heavy woods with loppers and cut down the trees. During the process we encountered biting ants, huge mosquitoes, and scratchy, sharp brush. We emerged from the woods with bites, scratches, and cuts, but did a great job of cutting down the harmful tree. Ask your student to see their "battle wound."
And I must give a special shout-out to "Team Algebra" for all of their fantastic work. Thanks Ally, Brian, Brittany, Carmen, and Kiley!
It is hard to believe that it is already Friday, our last day! We just had breakfast and are now headed off on the swamp tour!
I forgot to mention what we did for work yesterday -
We pulled out the "tallow tree," an invasive species in SE LA. The kids walked through heavy woods with loppers and cut down the trees. During the process we encountered biting ants, huge mosquitoes, and scratchy, sharp brush. We emerged from the woods with bites, scratches, and cuts, but did a great job of cutting down the harmful tree. Ask your student to see their "battle wound."
And I must give a special shout-out to "Team Algebra" for all of their fantastic work. Thanks Ally, Brian, Brittany, Carmen, and Kiley!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Thoughts from Tuesday and Wednesday
From Brittany, Liz, Ally, Justine:
...we met with Mel, the guy who works for the program we're helping with. He told us that LA is losing a football field worth of land every 38minutes but how dunes can help prevent erosion. e then cleaned up a beach and even though it was really hot we had a lot of fun. People were being dive-bombed by birds. Then we got to swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Overall, it was a good day.
Today we went to Fifi Island and planted grass that helps to protect the land from hurricanes. Later, we got a tour of the Plant Materials Center where we were staying and learned that the grass we planted was picked from a study of 90 grasses. We worked hard today but still enjoyed ourselves. Ally fell into the water because her foot was stuck in mud.
From Kiley, Kristyn, Madison, Carmen:
It's really hot so far...everyone is bonding in the dorms and we are getting closer and learning more about each other. We are really making a difference with the work we are doing and having a great experience with everything...today we saw a totally demolished house. It impacted all of us because we saw how powerful the hurricane was.
From Jessica, Andrea, Gaby, Natalee:
...the highlight of the trash pick-up day was finding all of the animal skeletons on the beach...I think everyone on this trip is getting a lot closer. It's going to be hard spending the rest of the summer away from everyone...On Wednesday is was cool to see how quickly and hard we all worked together on the planting job...
From Kylie, Lorelei, Christine:
...We saw an assortment of debris during the beach clean-up. We saw dead baby dolphins, pillows, chicken wings, t-shirts, toothbrushes, bottles, etc. We got to swim in the Gulf and it was really warm...we have fun dance parties in the evenings....we are looking forward to the finals days to come.
From Jonathan, Ethan, Brian:
For the past 2 days we have been working on the dunes and planting marsh plants...there were a lot of fish carcasses on the beach...we planted grasses that can withstand up to 18 inches of water and these help protect LA if there are other storms in the future...
...spending time with the group has been really great...working together we have accomplished so much. We saw alligators in the canal near the dorm...I have enjoyed every minute of the trip and I wouldn't change a thing.
From Samy and Norah:
...we've been staying in a government owned research center...they studied 90 plants over 10 years to determine the best type to withstand the conditions in southern LA...
...the beach seemed cleaner this year compared to last....we started a sand/mud fight in the Gulf...
...we saw alligators near the dorm while we were taking a walk...
...we saw the island where we planted last year and it was great to see the growth of the plants...we then saw dolphins jumping around...
...all around the past 2 days have been quite the experience!
...we met with Mel, the guy who works for the program we're helping with. He told us that LA is losing a football field worth of land every 38minutes but how dunes can help prevent erosion. e then cleaned up a beach and even though it was really hot we had a lot of fun. People were being dive-bombed by birds. Then we got to swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Overall, it was a good day.
Today we went to Fifi Island and planted grass that helps to protect the land from hurricanes. Later, we got a tour of the Plant Materials Center where we were staying and learned that the grass we planted was picked from a study of 90 grasses. We worked hard today but still enjoyed ourselves. Ally fell into the water because her foot was stuck in mud.
From Kiley, Kristyn, Madison, Carmen:
It's really hot so far...everyone is bonding in the dorms and we are getting closer and learning more about each other. We are really making a difference with the work we are doing and having a great experience with everything...today we saw a totally demolished house. It impacted all of us because we saw how powerful the hurricane was.
From Jessica, Andrea, Gaby, Natalee:
...the highlight of the trash pick-up day was finding all of the animal skeletons on the beach...I think everyone on this trip is getting a lot closer. It's going to be hard spending the rest of the summer away from everyone...On Wednesday is was cool to see how quickly and hard we all worked together on the planting job...
From Kylie, Lorelei, Christine:
...We saw an assortment of debris during the beach clean-up. We saw dead baby dolphins, pillows, chicken wings, t-shirts, toothbrushes, bottles, etc. We got to swim in the Gulf and it was really warm...we have fun dance parties in the evenings....we are looking forward to the finals days to come.
From Jonathan, Ethan, Brian:
For the past 2 days we have been working on the dunes and planting marsh plants...there were a lot of fish carcasses on the beach...we planted grasses that can withstand up to 18 inches of water and these help protect LA if there are other storms in the future...
...spending time with the group has been really great...working together we have accomplished so much. We saw alligators in the canal near the dorm...I have enjoyed every minute of the trip and I wouldn't change a thing.
From Samy and Norah:
...we've been staying in a government owned research center...they studied 90 plants over 10 years to determine the best type to withstand the conditions in southern LA...
...the beach seemed cleaner this year compared to last....we started a sand/mud fight in the Gulf...
...we saw alligators near the dorm while we were taking a walk...
...we saw the island where we planted last year and it was great to see the growth of the plants...we then saw dolphins jumping around...
...all around the past 2 days have been quite the experience!
From Samy, Alex, Ben, Norah
June 8, 2009
For the past two years we have had the pleasure of traveling to New Orleans to help out with Hurricane Katrina relief. In our travels we have had the chance to explore the city, learn about the area, and help out all while having fun. We never knew that volunteering could create such great memories. Whether we were on the bus, planting, hanging out in the hotel, on the jazz boat dinner cruise, or just soaking in the culture, we enjoyed every minute spent on the trip.
Today we continued the tradition of taking a bus tour. Sadly, we have noticed that not much has changed and people still need our help. We speak for all past volunteers when we say that this truly is a life-changing experience. It has made us all realize how lucky we really are and that it is our duty to do everything in our power to aid the people and environment effected by the hurricane.
The work that we have completed and will perform this year will help to reduce future impact from storms and natural disasters. The grasses that we will plant act as the first defense against storm surge.
We have learned just how important New Orleans really is. It would be a disaster to lose an amazing city like New Orleans.
-Samy Brown, Alex Brown, Ben Cox, Norah Weber
For the past two years we have had the pleasure of traveling to New Orleans to help out with Hurricane Katrina relief. In our travels we have had the chance to explore the city, learn about the area, and help out all while having fun. We never knew that volunteering could create such great memories. Whether we were on the bus, planting, hanging out in the hotel, on the jazz boat dinner cruise, or just soaking in the culture, we enjoyed every minute spent on the trip.
Today we continued the tradition of taking a bus tour. Sadly, we have noticed that not much has changed and people still need our help. We speak for all past volunteers when we say that this truly is a life-changing experience. It has made us all realize how lucky we really are and that it is our duty to do everything in our power to aid the people and environment effected by the hurricane.
The work that we have completed and will perform this year will help to reduce future impact from storms and natural disasters. The grasses that we will plant act as the first defense against storm surge.
We have learned just how important New Orleans really is. It would be a disaster to lose an amazing city like New Orleans.
-Samy Brown, Alex Brown, Ben Cox, Norah Weber
More Pics
Day 2: Taking a boat out to Fifi Island to do our planting.
Splashing around in the Gulf.
Group photo near a washed up buoy.
Day 1: Beach clean-up along the Gulf of Mexico.
The last few days -
Hello!
We made it back to New Orleans. We only have a bit before heading off to dinner on the Natchez Steamboat, but I thought I'd give you a quick update.
Tuesday -
Beach clean-up on Grand Isle followed by a swim in the Gulf!
Wednesday -
Planted $6,000 worth of "cord grass" on FiFi Island. These grasses grow well in the bayou environment and act as a first line of defense for future storms.
Thursday -
Worked at local forest preserve pulling invasive Tallow Trees. Hard work - got many bug bites and scratches, but it was fun!
The internet connection at the hotel keeps going in and out - I will try to post pictures soon!
We made it back to New Orleans. We only have a bit before heading off to dinner on the Natchez Steamboat, but I thought I'd give you a quick update.
Tuesday -
Beach clean-up on Grand Isle followed by a swim in the Gulf!
Wednesday -
Planted $6,000 worth of "cord grass" on FiFi Island. These grasses grow well in the bayou environment and act as a first line of defense for future storms.
Thursday -
Worked at local forest preserve pulling invasive Tallow Trees. Hard work - got many bug bites and scratches, but it was fun!
The internet connection at the hotel keeps going in and out - I will try to post pictures soon!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Tuesday morning
Hello!
I think everyone slept last night and we were all up for breakfast by 6:45am. Today we head out toward Grand Isle for the next three days of work. There is not a cloud in the sky so it is sure to be a hot day! The kids are all set to work, however.
Thanks to those of you who have commented. Keep 'em coming! Good to hear from ya'll.
I think everyone slept last night and we were all up for breakfast by 6:45am. Today we head out toward Grand Isle for the next three days of work. There is not a cloud in the sky so it is sure to be a hot day! The kids are all set to work, however.
Thanks to those of you who have commented. Keep 'em coming! Good to hear from ya'll.
Monday, June 8, 2009
From Christine, Kylie, and Lorelei
On the first day of the trip we were all very excited for the next three days to come. The beignets we had for "dessert" were delicious. We also took a tour today and learned about the culture and destruction of New Orleans. We learned a lot and had fun.
We cannot wait to do the volunteer work that needs to be done. It is going to be a very exciting week!
We cannot wait to do the volunteer work that needs to be done. It is going to be a very exciting week!
From room 1424 - Brian, Ethan, Jonathan
It has been a long day but an eventful one - the airplane ride, Bubba Gumps, Hurricane Katrina tour, the walk after dinner, and the pool. Although it has been a long day we have had all the energy in the world. The thing that most of us don't like is the humid weather. The stories and facts and scenes we saw on the tour were devastating and realistic. It is hard to believe what the people of N.O. have been through. We cannot wait for the upcoming days as we learn more about this great city. We don't want the days to go by fast, but if they do we will surely enjoy every moment of it.
Reflections from Liz, Brittany, Justine, and Ally
Today was our first day in New Orleans and we really noticed the heat and humidity.
On the Katrina tour we learned a lot of stuff. The "X"'s on the homes represented the date the home was searched by a particular troop, the number of dead humans, and the number of dead animals found. Going through the areas affected by Hurricane Katrina was really sad.
After the tour we went shopping. The shops were really cool. We liked all the masks and voodoo dolls. The food at dinner was different but yummy. We are glad we tried different kinds of food.
On the Katrina tour we learned a lot of stuff. The "X"'s on the homes represented the date the home was searched by a particular troop, the number of dead humans, and the number of dead animals found. Going through the areas affected by Hurricane Katrina was really sad.
After the tour we went shopping. The shops were really cool. We liked all the masks and voodoo dolls. The food at dinner was different but yummy. We are glad we tried different kinds of food.
Andrea's impressions
Today was pretty awesome. My favorite part was stopping at City Park during the tour. It was so pretty and peaceful. Our tour guide was amazing, she was into everything she was talking about and we couldn't have asked for a better guide.
The pastry with the powdered sugar was amazing and we have to go back.
So far everything I've seen, I've loved. New Orleans is so pretty and I'm so glad I'm here.
The pastry with the powdered sugar was amazing and we have to go back.
So far everything I've seen, I've loved. New Orleans is so pretty and I'm so glad I'm here.
From Natalee
...the food at Bubba Gumps was really good. Also at the Gumbo Shop the food was good. I had the jambalaya and it was so so so good. I had fun on my first day...
Musings from Ms. Huebner
New Orleans is sooo hot and humid! I wasn't prepared for that at all. The Katrina tour really impacted me. I've seen pictures before, but it was SO different actually seeing the damage and devastation. It was weird seeing people exist normally around the damage. New Orleans may have suffered a lot of damage but it's also very beautiful.
Furry friend or foe?
Our tour guide warned us of the nutria rat...
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/03/080306094624.htm
Plans for the Week
Hello Loyal Readers -
Today was a success. We arrived in New Orleans without any trouble and are now settling into the hotel for the night. The next three days we will be working in the wetlands outside of New Orleans. I say this because we may not have consistent internet access. So, if you don't hear from us on the blog, don't fret. We'll be back on Thursday!
Comment when you can - the kids love hearing from ya'll.
-Ms. W.
Today was a success. We arrived in New Orleans without any trouble and are now settling into the hotel for the night. The next three days we will be working in the wetlands outside of New Orleans. I say this because we may not have consistent internet access. So, if you don't hear from us on the blog, don't fret. We'll be back on Thursday!
Comment when you can - the kids love hearing from ya'll.
-Ms. W.
Day 1 In Pictures
We had dinner at "The Gumbo Shop" and encouraged the students to try some local cuisine. Ally tried alligator sausage, pictured above. Yum!
A night in New Orleans is not complete without a stop at
Cafe DuMonde for beignets. Mmmm.
Humidity + Ms. Waldock = crazy hair.
(Good math, huh?)
(Good math, huh?)
Quick update from iPhone-
We made it to the hotel. Enjoyed a nice lunch and extensive tour of the city. Now off to shop and then enjoy an authentic Cajun meal. Will update with feedback from students later.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Read about New Orleans Trip 2008
Curious about our trip?
Check out the blog from last year's participants-
http://seeneworleans.blogspot.com/
Check out the blog from last year's participants-
http://seeneworleans.blogspot.com/
New Orleans Trip - 2009
Hello Readers!
Welcome to the 2009 SEE Team New Orleans Trip blog.
On Monday, June 8, 2009, 22 students from Riverside Brookfield High School in Riverside, IL along with 4 teachers will embark on a 5 day trip to help restore the wetland areas surrounding New Orleans, LA.
Stay tuned to this blog for updates from the field!
-Ms. Waldock
Welcome to the 2009 SEE Team New Orleans Trip blog.
On Monday, June 8, 2009, 22 students from Riverside Brookfield High School in Riverside, IL along with 4 teachers will embark on a 5 day trip to help restore the wetland areas surrounding New Orleans, LA.
Stay tuned to this blog for updates from the field!
-Ms. Waldock
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