...and then there was the fair...

First of all, I apologize for not posting the past few days, but there was not many "photo ops" since these were the "work days." Jared felt really good about his judging sessions on Monday, and really enjoyed doing it. I was not allowed in...hence, the lack of photos. He said talking to the judges was really easy and was able to answer most of their questions with confidence. Wednesday night, he attended the student mixer where he played games and ate in a carnival-type atmosphere.

Thursday was public viewing, and that was awesome. While Jared talked to many people about his project, I went around and saw some stuff that other kids are working on. Some really intense and awesome projects! Some of the projects may be able to help move some of our current MaST kids along. That night was the Special Awards Ceremony and Friday morning was the Grand Awards...both very long, but really cool. Jared didn't win any awards, but says that the experience has been great, the competition tough, and looks forward to continuing on his scientific path throughout college at UF. I am very proud of him, and look forward to seeing where he goes in life.

Brittany, the other student from our region, won a Special Award from Science Buddies, and a 3rd place category award! We were very happy for her and her father, Jeff, as she has already accomplished so much...and is just a freshman. Looks like MaST will have some good competition for the next few years!

Jared and I would like to once again thank Susan Puchalla, the entire Sarasota Regional Science and Engineering Fair committee, and the Education Foundation for sending us on this trip. It truly has been an amazing experience and we are both the better for it.

So long, from San Jose...