And so the adventure begins!

 “The World is a book and those who do not travel read only a page.” – Saint Augustine

Today, the Augie Band gathered for the first time in preparation for their upcoming trip.  They look GREAT and READY!  All were happy to receive their passports and Chinese Visas back from Brad and Brad was HAPPY to give them back.  The Visa process is new and different...and difficult.  We're grateful to have them - and grateful to be together today to celebrate that.

Some Q and A - last minute thoughts and then it was on to rehearsals and class sessions.  This band will be in good shape when they arrive in Shanghai. Why?  Because they are serious musicians who will have their music well-prepared under the direction of Dr. Unger.  In addition, they will know much more about China than the average visitor because they are being well-taught by Dr. Pennington.  The exciting thing is when these days of preparation begin to unfold on the other side of the earth. 

Daily updates will begin from Shanghai once the group arrives at 5:35 p.m. on Tuesday, January 8.  If that flight is on time, it will be 3:35 AM in Sioux Falls.

Here's to the Band and the adventures that await!  And let's remember the words of Mark Twain:


“I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.”

My hunch is that we will all like each other.  Very much.   Cheers!