Chicago, IL - School is out, the summer begins

School officially ended yesterday at noon. The kids were done last Friday, but we had to return for three days of out-service. I can not tell how much I love meetings, especially the end of the year variety. So much gets done. Anyway, the “H” had a nice luncheon for us to end the school year. I should not complain because I was recognized for five years of service and for going “over and above”. I can not believe that I have been at the “H” for five years. Until this year my length of service at each of my previous schools has resembled a communist economic plan, 5 years. Next year when I return to the “H” I will be in my sixth year. That means I will have taught at the “H” longer then SBA and Youth Villages, which is hard to believe.

And since school is out I naturally am writing this entry on the road. So the summer of Pete has begun. The summer is shaping up to be a fun and busy one. Here is a rough itinerary for the summer.

Chicago - May 30th to June 1st
Lima, OH – June 1st to June 3/4th
Erie, PA – June 3/4th to June 7th
Atlanta – June 7th to June 10th
Memphis – June 10th to June 19th
Washington, DC – June 19th to June 29th
Memphis – June 29th to July 3rd
China – July 4th to August 3rd

Again, a very busy summer but lots to do and many people to visit. I love teaching but I love the summer!!!

Memphis, TN - Summary of May activities

May is always a busy month, for both Pete individually and the city of Memphis, collectively. This past May was no different. Here is laundry list of Pete’s May activities.

1. Wedding in Franklin, TN
2. Jasper leaves Memphis to return to his native country, Canadia.
3. BBQ Fest
4. State Track Championship
   

Wedding in Franklin, TN

I went to the wedding in Franklin with my girlfriend, Brittany. (Boam, I apparently can quit you.) Sorry for the inside joke folks! One of Brittany’s friends from college, University of Tennessee, was getting married. We were shown some excellent hospitality by Brittany’s friends, Bracey and Allison. It will come as no shock for many that although I was guest of a guest on the bride’s side; I knew most of the groom’s side. The groom used to live in the dorm at CBU that I was in charge of while I was getting my Masters degree. In fact one of his groomsman was still quite upset with me because I used to “steal his beer” when he also lived in dorm. I say that I was merely enforcing the rules of the University and the state of Tennessee. Logically I had to dispose of the confiscated materials and what better place than my belly!! I bought him a few drinks after the reception as show of good faith but I do not think he got over it. The groom is from Memphis and went to CBHS. I taught about four people who were at the wedding on the groom’s side. It was a good time.

I had a great time getting to know Brittany’s friends. I know many of you want details and they will come. I have included a picture below; she is the one with the slightly darker complexion.

BBQ Fest

What can you say about BBQ Fest in Memphis? It was an absolute blast. I argue that BBQ Fest is the premier social event of the year in Memphis. It has music, BBQ, friends, and good times. The team had a great time. There were some overcrowding issues (my fault). For a great summary of BBQ Fest activities at the tent of Magically Piglicious check out my friend Jack's blog. (The Weekly Poop) But in the end I think, all in attendance had a good time. I am including an editorial by Chris Peck from the Commercial Appeal that sums up what BBQ Fest means to Memphis.

State Track Meet

One of my duties at the “H” is assistant Varsity and Middle School Track coach. I coach the field events, shot put, discuss, high and long jump in the middle school and varsity just shot and disc. The team finished 10th in the state out of about 25 teams. Pretty good.

The track team at the "H".