We met at the gate early Sunday morning, (7:30 am) a bit sleepy but excited. We met each other for the first time as all were not able to attend the orientation at Karen's house August 2nd. The team shared stories of their reason for volunteering, their expectations and anxieties. When we arrived, we hired a large bus (no keg on board) to carry us with all our luggage (many had extra bags with books and school supplies). Upon arriving at the Bienville House Hotel we were warmly "welcomed back" by front desk staff. We share 3 or 4 to a room at a discounted rate, compliments of the hotel.

Our first meal together was at the Gumbo Shop, a local favorite. We spent the rest of the evening acclimating ourselves to the 90 degree weather and getting to know our neighborhood.

Today we left the hotel at 8:15 am for the school. We hopped on the streetcar and walked a mile down Martin Luther King Dr. to KIPP Central City Academy. Lo and behold: we were delayed, because there was a movie set on our way! They were filming a movie called "Bad Lieutenant" with X-Ibit (from Pimp My Ride) and Nicholas Cage!!! I'm pretty sure we screwed up a few shots, because we were ALL too excited to see him, "RIGHT THERE!!!!" He looked very sweaty (drunk and old) in his beige three piece suit with a HUGE pistol tucked into his belt! Once we were denied a picture with him :( we kept going towards the school.

The school is not finished and we worked on cleaning windows amidst the nearly completed construction. The classrooms are large and we are eager to set them up. Finance Manager, John Breyer, and Director of the middle school, Todd Purvis, were very happy to see us. Teachers of the KIPP Central City Academy are expected tomorrow to finish cleaning the large rooms and to set-up their rooms. We will either be paired with the classrooms teachers or the school librarian, or we will work with the school Directors'. Tuesday - Friday plan to be busy days.

Once we picked up our lunch, our picnic in the courtyard of the school was disrupted by a turrential downpour. The rain did NOT let up, even as we walked the mile to the street car, waited for the street car, and walked back to the hotel FROM the street car. "It was a real wet t-shirt contest, that's for sure!"

After returning to the hotel, continuing the "soaking wet" theme: swimming ensued. Complete with handstand and summersault contests! Tonight a jazz show and bignettes are in order!