Opening Ceremonies

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by Danny Fanaroff, NRE – DC Council
Tonight marked the opening of IC 2011. Over 700 participants from countries all over the world, packed into a crowded room to show their regional spirit. After quieting down, we were greeted by the International S’ganim Daniel Cooper and Carley Gaynes. Immediately after, Cooper introduced Bono (I’ll leave it up to you to decide if it was actually him or not) who performed U2 classic “Beautiful Day.” Then we were spoken to by Executive Director Matt Grossman and BBYO alumnus Chairman of the Board Estee Portnoy. After their speech all of the IC staff broke into a flash mob to promote 2011 Summer Experiences (Stay tuned for the official promo video, it’s gonna be ridiculous).
Afterwards, the lights turned down, aside from a spotlight on the main aisle, and walk-ins took place as the head delegates of each delegation repped their chapter colors with the cheers from their respective regions in the background. Once the official opening ceremony concluded, we had an enjoyable dance with a live DJ.

by Nate Strauss, Michigan Region
A dark stage. 750 screaming teens fill an audience. Cowbell’s ringing and the Black Eyed Peas blasting in the background. Multi-colored lights scanning the massive room. I am at International Convention, representing my region, and taking part in one of the largest gatherings of Jewish teenagers in the world. The International S’ganim take the stage. Daniel Cooper and Carley Gaynes officially open convention. Speech’s are given by the Pacific Coast Regional Godol and N’siah, Josh Blank and Anna Vechera.
A surprise visit by “Bono and Paula Abdul” bridged speeches to the introduction of the Grand Aleph Godol Jeremy Sherman and International N’siah Arielle Braude. Standard convention rules were stated and the Head Delegates and I-Board did their infamous “Walk Down.” With everything going on, I had no idea any other amazing events could take place. However, this is IC. There is always something amazing happening.
Executive Director Matthew Grossman took the stage accompanied by the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors Estee Portnoy. The Summer Experience scholarship raffle winners were announced, and all of a sudden, music filled the room. Every single staff member of International Convention 2011 pulled off their sweatshirts and coats to reveal a Summer Experience t-shirt. A flash mob of staff broke out. Their precisely choreographed dance lead the International Body into a massive DJ style dance to finish out the night.