I just got back from the Oregon Teen Conference. I am honored to say that it was a great success and that I feel that the youth have taken from this conference what we wanted them to. I just did not know that I would be taking more from them then I have given them. I did not know I would be the one being taught.

I have learned so much from the powerful and determined youth at the conference. I was tired and felt home sick but at the same time I did not want it to end. I have made some great friends and connections with the youth but my most memoriable experience is with "JB" who is now my new little brother. I am glad to beable to put him in my new extended family. I promised to be there if he ever needs it and I will never break my promise. I have learned so much about life, the system, and myself from those amazing youth.

I would like to thank all of them for making this the best experience of my life. I know that on that campus was some of the World's next leaders. If this is what the rest of the summer is going to be like then I dont want it to end. I can not say how much I love that I have the chance to be an all star. I told my tribe that in my eyes they are the "TRUE ALL-STARS" they have been through so much more then I have and they still know how to love, care, and continue on. To me that is determination and that shows the true power of the human spirit. I feel blessed to have met all of them and would love to tell them "THANK YOU"