Day 7: Friday May 16, 2014 ... Santa Monica

After such a whirlwind of excitement at the award ceremonies, it was decided that a suitable wind down would be delivered by a visit to the Santa Monica Pier and Beach.  It was planned that two luxurious stretch limos would whisk away our group of 6 chaperones and 19 students to sand heaven ... great idea and celebrations sans champagne would be in order. Unfortunately instead, we were shuttled away in 4 yellow minivan taxis. Oh, the disappointment. Apparently, the limo company had overbooked due to the coincident needs of the numerous area high school Friday night grads.

Once at Santa Monica, the students dispersed into their groups and were encouraged to spend time either on the beach or at the neighbouring mall.  Courtesy of Adamo, here is an example of typical Calvin and his idea of fun.  After hours of much fun, the groups all met together for a quick dinner at the mall and then were shuttled back to the hotel; this time, three large SUV sleek limos did the job.

Back at the hotel, by 10 pm, the students were encouraged to pack first and then party as they feel necessary.  Many just hung out, signed each other's project number boards and learned how to make balloon animals under chaperone Cathy's supervision.

We were humbled by a surprised visit from Nicholas Schieffer, a Team Canada IISEF 2012 Alumni who is now doing his schooling at nearby Caltech. Nicholas won 2nd in Fair in IISEF 2012. What a classy guy ...  he bused and walked for 1 1/2 hour just to speak to and congratulate all of the students.

Nicole was met by parents and left with them to prepare for a side trip visit to Stanford.  Team Montreal had a 5 am flight and were scheduled for a 3 am bus pick up so they were first to bed.  Team YSC had a 4 am and Team BASEF had a 4:20 am bus pick up ... names unknown but I am told several stayed up in the lobby 

.... to be continued ...