Out of AK, briefly

One week I was walking in the Denali National Park, and the next week I was hitting the pavement of downtown San Francisco. What a fun and varied summer it's been so far!

I had the awesome opportunity to attend the National Conference on Volunteering and Service. It was the largest gathering of its kind--ever. Of course I soaked in the inspiration & youth-specific workshops (for my job), but the General Assembly and some other events were mind-bogglingly cool! (and getting time with fellow AmeriCorps alums or coordinators.)

How often do you see Matthew McConaughey (far left) hanging around to speak on volunteering?

What are the chances of hearing California Governor Arnold S. speak some "key" phrases?! (and be noteworthy during the un-recorded portion of his message?)

Not often do you go from the splendor of AK summer to a vibrant skyline, above, as seen from my hotel window.

How often do you get swiped by Secret Service? Our keynote speaker was First Lady Michelle Obama! It's difficult to describe how thrilling that was..."I'm with my people, " she said.

Other guests at the conference included Maria Shriver, Arianna Huffington, Shaka Khan, Nancy Pelosi (below), and even an exclusive from Bon Jovi!

What a totally cool reason to leave AK during the summer, and during a busy month.

2009 is the Obama Administration's Summer of Service, concluding on 9/11. This is the time for all of us to make contributions where we live--big or small!

Oh, and not to brag but this is very cool too...I sat 7 rows behind Sean Penn on the flight from San Fran to Anchorage. Seems he was going camping with his teenage son, given the tent sack, sleeping pads and backpack he pulled out of the airport baggage claim. It looked like I was the only one to recognize him, or care to watch his every move!

*Amy