ABC Welcome Picnic and Orientation

The alumni-hosted event began with a welcome from ABC coordinator Frank Dunkle, followed by a “people scavenger hunt” that included students, faculty and alumni. Participants were issued the challenge of finding a different individual to fulfill every requirement on their scavenger list, such as those who had “ridden a horse” or those who “can name the year the California Gold Rush began.”

Participants also enjoyed a delicious lunch of barbecued chicken and beef, mac and cheese, and coleslaw. During the lunch break, students also had the opportunity to pose for a picture in a photo booth complete with Western costumes and props.

The next activity was the novelty olympics, which tested their skills in speed, balance, cooperation, quick thinking and even quick eating, as well as providing many opportunities for a good laugh!

The next and final event of the picnic was a delicious cobbler dessert. Many of the students, faculty and alumni stayed  for fellowship with each other long after their dessert was gone!

On Monday, Aug. 29, the students gathered in the ABC classroom for orientation. The resident faculty explained policies and procedures and also encouraged students to make the most of this special opportunity. UCG president Victor Kubik added that preparing for future service is an important part of the ABC mission. During the afternoon, the new students took a tour of the home office, enjoyed having a dessert social with the staff, and then met with choir director Ken Shoemaker to begin the process of forming this year’s choir.

An exciting school year is off to a positive start! The ABC faculty and alumni look forward to getting to know the newest class.