4H Equipo GIS

Today was one of the most interesting days I have had since last lear. Friday at last and we were finally on our way to Boca Chica and exitement was in the air. After a very long wait at the hotel for “unclear” reasons, it was around 12 in the afternoon and we were finally ready to go. About 30 minutes later, we were arriving at Boca Chica, when the driver turned into this very small and densely populated street. The driver continued driving towards the end of the street and told us he would drop us off at the far end. As our van approached the shoreline 10 to 15 people “happily” came rushing to greet us. Getting of the van was like walking into an obvious trap. Immediately I was told that because I spoke spanish I would be able to get a great deal on beach chairs and “great” food. Walking towards the shoreline we though we had escaped these wonderful people. As luck would have it, we were again immediately swamped with a multitude of vendors that their merchandise ranged from necklaces to hair braids to manucures and massages.  It definitely was some very exiting moments. Tom, who had felt the frustation before, let out a loud and very comical response. “NO!, NO!, NO GRACIAS!,” he said. finally we were able to make it out alive and settle on the shore. I named this attack the First Wave because I knew this would not be the end of our arch enemies.

All week we have been anticipating Boca Chica.

With a view of muggy water through our hotel window all week long, we have grown fond of anticipating the clear waters of a place described in paper. A place where the sky is no longer gray and everything is bright from a shining sun. A place where no floods exist. A place unaffected by tropical storm Noel.

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Arriving at the beach, we were greeted by an unexpected surprise. Dozens of people came up to us asking us if we wanted to buy anything from CD’s, watches, blankets, food, manicures, etc. These were people who made a living off of tourism and because of the storm they had been unemployed for about four days. They were very happy to see tourists.

The water was crystal clear, the sun was shining, and there was a very light breeze.  We went on a boat ride while riding on a “banana.” It was super fun, especially getting flipped over.

As the name implies, today we took a day of rest. Since members of the group were feeling tired and were getting sick, we thought we needed some rest. Thankfully, I haven’t been getting sick. The rest was well called for and we were all refreshed by the time we were ready to go out.

First we went to a printer presentation, learning about different types of HP printers.

Afterwards, at a social, I had an interesting conversation with a GIS user from the Dominican Republic. He was in charge on inventorying Cacao trees around volcanic areas for the government. He also explained how the Dominican has one of the largest export of chocolate beans to England and other countries who process them and make chocolate. While they export the chocolate beans, less than 10% of Dominicans consume products made from coffee beans, according to this man.

Interestingly, he also said that the last time they had a tropical storm/hurricane was about 10 years ago. Lucky us to have been here when the storm came around. It was pure nature and fascinating to witness. Although I didn’t wish for a storm and the loss of lives is very unfortunate, I have gained awareness for those who have ever been in a storm (worse than this) and for those who live in areas that are not meant to sustain such weather.

Well today was presentation day. All of our hours of practicing and rehearsing for this one day. Was I nervous? Only a minute before we actually presented. It was more the anticipation of having to sit through the previous presentations and knowing that we hadn’t actually rehearsed on stage. Once it was our turn to present, I was as ready as I was going to get. When it was over, I was filled with relief. We were partially done with what we came down here to do. I felt better with our presentation when I went to sit down in the audience and a man sitting next to me said, “You guys are doing a great job,” which at the moment, was all I needed to hear.

I want to take a moment to offer my truest appreciation for all the people at ESRI who have helped make this happen! Without all of you, 4-H Equipo GIS would still just be a very great idea, not a reality!

I want to thank Jack Dangermond for supporting our youth and the program! We are continually overwhelmed by the amount of software, support, and energy ESRI puts into our youth development programs, and for creating the opportunity for the youth to attend the conferences both abroad and in San Diego! Without his support, we would not be able to offer these opportunities!

 I want to thank Esther Worker and Charlie Fitzpatrick for their continuing support, and their belief in the 4-H program! They have provided the best support we could have had. They have been wonderful in promoting youth experiences, and encouraging our youth to explore! They are vital to what we do!

 I want to thank Merrill Lyew and Juan Gomez for the terrific Latin American and Caribbean User’s Conference the 4-H EquipoGIS youth have just attended. This opportunity, both to present, and interact with GIS professionals has made a profound impact on the entire team!

 I want to thank Joseph Kerski for his ongoing support of our criteria and all of the work we do! His input has been essential to improving the skills of our youth!

 I want to thank Ismael Chivite for answering the questions that came from our team! Your direct answer to their question has clearly inspired Clara to peruse a career in GIS, and to believe that she can set her goals high, and achieve it!

 Thanks to all of you for all of your support, enthusiasm, and your belief in youth! You clearly are making a difference!

My deepest appreciation,

 ~Sarah Cofer